Raine 34 - MUSIC + TECH ISSUE by Raine Magazine

FASHION. INNOVATION. ENTREPRENUERSHIP

VOL 34 QUARTERLY MUSIC +TECH ISSUE

THE GAMING CONFERENCE OF THE YEAR THE GLOBEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BLOCKCHAIN COMMUNITYT HIGH TECH HANDBAGS & HOMES

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SEAN KINGSTON NOVA LORAINE

“I LIVE TO CREATE” -Nova Lorraine

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JAYLEN BARRON 60 AMBER NASH 64 OLIVER TREVENA 68 SPRAYGROUND 72 RENA OWEN 74 LYNDSAY CHRISTIAN 76 JAAFAR 78

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EDITOR’S NOTE WELCOME TO RAINE MAGAZINE Being Jamaican born and a lover of reggae, having Sean Kingston as our cover star for our Music and Technology issue is real special to me. However, hearing his story of faith and persistence and sharing it with our Raine Readers is a true honor. As one of our loyalists, thank you for being a part of the Raine experience and continuing to support the rise of creative entrepreneurs around the world. As you know, we are committed to discovering, growing and branding the hidden gems in fashion, culture and technology throughout the globe. See the world through Raine’s eyes as you peruse the style and travel pages and study the architectural details of the jaw dropping home once graced by the Beatles. Meet some of the game changers in the tech world, from the E3 conference to the community building the first ecosystem for blockchain brands. Beyond this issue, we are excited to share with you our newly launched podcast, Unleash Your SuperNova. It bridges the gap between creativity and entrepreneurship to help creative minds survive the journey of entrepreneurship. We will bring you both your favorite on camera personalities as well as discuss topics on mindset, mindfulness, technology and productivity in order to help you rise to your most creative self. Don’t miss an episode or an issue, as each will leave you truly inspired. Truly,

Nova Lorraine, MA Founder and Editor

“Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me.” – Arianna Huffington

FASHION

BEAUTY & STYLE

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Photography- Flat Imagery: Stephen McGinn smcginn.com Editorial: Lily and Lilac www.lilyandlilac.com

TRACEY HUMMEL ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND FUNCTIONAL DESIGN FOR BEE & KIN

“GREAT STYLE MAKES LIFE MORE FUN, AND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY MAKES LIFE MORE CONVENIENT,” STATES TRACEY HUMMEL, THE FOUNDER OF THE TECH HANDBAG COMPANY BEE & KIN. “I FOUND MYSELF STRUGGLING TO FIND THINGS IN MY BAGS, AND REALLY ENVISIONED DIFFERENT WAYS OF TYING IN TECH TO MAKE MY SEARCH SIMPLER.”

Today, Bee & Kin offers luxury with a twist. A modern play on a classic concept, the brand’s curated collections are made from the finest materials and designed with thoughtful technology for a dynamic lifestyle. “I wanted to create beautiful products with exciting features,” explains Hummel. Her goal for Bee & Kin is to strike the right note between style and function with modern accessories that make life more convenient. RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? TRACEY: I think I would tell myself to be in the moment, and to embrace the challenges instead of fearing them; the challenging days are the days I learn and grow the most. RAINE: How would you describe a creative entrepreneur in your own words? TRACEY: Passionate. When a creative entrepreneur is so in love with the work/idea that is being brought to life, the work comes first and the money second. RAINE: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? TRACEY: I’d say two things — either meditate, or jump in a cold shower to shock the senses. No joke, they work! RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? TRACEY: Passion. Drive. Flexibility. RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? TRACEY: There were times when I felt like I kept hitting roadblocks and had lost hope about bringing Bee & Kin to life. What helped me was mediating and getting rid of the thoughts that didn’t serve me anymore, listening to my body, and taking some time off. Even if it’s for a long weekend, taking some time away from work and walking near a body of water can be an instant reset. RAINE: Name your top three hacks for battling the loneliness of entrepreneurship. TRACEY: 1. Working at co-working spaces to network and build relationships. 2. Going to events and panels. 3. Growing your team. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? TRACEY: Margaritas! RAINE: What is your best advice for battling boredom in creative pursuits or creative entrepreneurship? TRACEY: Take a step back. Go to yoga or a high intensity workout class, go on a trip somewhere, and spend time with friends and family. RAINE: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout the years? TRACEY: I’ve wanted to start my own handbag brand for as long as I can remember; it’s never changed. RAINE: What major project coming up are you most excited about? TRACEY: Very excited about the new styles we are working on with some different tech elements! Stay tuned. RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? TRACEY: I think that for anyone interested in fashion the best thing to do would be to go work for a company (or companies) that you really admire. Learn as much as you can; get a real understanding of how the business works and what part of it is the most exciting to you. When you are learning and taking on projects that present new challenges, it pushes you to grow. It shaped the way I work and helped me take on growing a business of my own.

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RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? TRACEY: Sometimes you have to take a step back and evaluate why you are experiencing this setback or obstacle. Be flexible and kind to yourself, and determine your next move. RAINE: What is your best advice in battling boredom in creative pursuits or creative entrepreneurship? TRACEY: If you’re bored, you’re not working on something! I can’t say I’ve experienced many moments of boredom since starting my company. RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? TRACEY: It’s okay to fail. Sometimes things don’t work out the way you think they should. And that’s fine! You had the courage to try something you believed in. RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. TRACEY: Driven. Hard Working. Positive. Dynamic. RAINE: We love transformation. If you have experienced a personal or professional evolution, what was the inspiration behind it and how have people reacted? TRACEY: I think ultimately my “transformation” was quitting my full time job to start my own company and not compromising when it came to making sure our handbags are part fashion and tech. Bee & Kin bags are made not only to look beautiful, but also to work for you and make your life easier. People are surprised at how far I’ve come and are super supportive!

TRACEY: I would die for Oprah to wear Bee & Kin! RAINE: In regards to your unique selling advantage, explain how you made the choice to break the mold? TRACEY: The choice to break the mold in fashion was easy. I’ve always dreamt of tying luxury fashion and tech together to creating beautiful products that truly work for you. RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? TRACEY: The hexagon/honeycomb is definitely Bee & Kin’s signature look. It is a nod to my heritage and upbringing. My last name is Hummel, which in German translates to bumblebee, so the honeycomb is a reminder of my hardworking family background. RAINE: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? TRACEY: Eva Chen RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play, and why? TRACEY: I would have to say NYC. I love living here and working here. It’s the best of both worlds. Amazing restaurants and parks, and the people—of course.

RAINE: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? TRACEY: Literally my favorite—organization and planning. They keep me on task and I can really get things done. RAINE: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? TRACEY: I wouldn’t change anything. I’ve learned from everything I’ve experienced, and that’s invaluable. I wouldn’t change the good or the bad. RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? TRACEY: I would say technology has made it easier for newcomers to get discovered. I communicate more with customers on Instagram than any other outlet. Because of tech / social media, I am building a community of entrepreneurial tech women who empower each other. RAINE: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets or software? TRACEY: Instagram has helped me find women in tech who are doing interesting work and has allowed me to communicate with them to see what they are looking for when it comes to their workbags. RAINE: What tech do you use to increase your productivity? Name up to 3 TRACEY: Calendar app COZI is my lifesaver and keeps me on task. Flic with Find My Phone, because I’m constantly on the go and am constantly leaving my phone everywhere. RAINE: How does being an independent brand or artist allow you to have more creative freedom? TRACEY: I have time to create my own schedule, which is nice, because I learn the most from meeting people for lunch or coffee, instead of being stuck in an office. It has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone. RAINE: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

Rise To Your Most Creative Self! -Nova Lorraine

BEACH DAY PHOTOGRAPHER: VITAL AGIBALOW for HENSEL STYLE @ibizaNYC MakeUp Artist: KATE ROMANOFF for MAC cosmetics Hair Stylist: ORIBE Manicure: KISS nails Model: Kalyn Waide

CHRISTIE BRINKLEY

Photo Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

HOSTS 2019 POLO HAMPTONS

Christie Brinkley hosted the third annual Polo Hamptons Match & Event where she celebrated her July 4th cover at The Maria & Kenneth Fishel Estate in Bridgehampton. The cover star arrived with her two of her children, Alexa Ray Joel, and Sailor Brinkley Cook, and posed for pictures with Social Life Publisher Justin Mitchell, Maria and Kenneth Fishel and celebrity caterer Andrea Correale. More than 600 guests enjoyed delectable hors d’oeuvres and specialized cocktails from New York and Hamptons caterer Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs as they watched the thrilling Polo match between Michael Borrico’s Certified team, and 101 Polo Team, with Certified taking home the trophy. R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

Attendees included Former Florida First Lady Carole Crist, Douglas Elliman CEO Dottie Herman, Jonathan Cheban, Jean Shafiroff, Andy Sabin, Janel Tanna, Cassandra Seidenfeld, Tatum Peacock, Abraham Merchant, Kelly Fisher, Roni Willett, Dr. Shawn Sadri, Janna Bullock, Jason Binn, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Rachel Heller, Zach Erdem, Christine Montanti, Dr. Andrew Jacono, and Sharon Bush. The event was sponsored by Private Jet Services, Turks & Caicos Tourism, Boar’s Head, Social Life Magazine, Go Charity, Christie Brinkley Total Gym, and Bellissima. A portion of all proceeds from the afternoon were donated to The Bridgehampton Museum.

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COLOR BLIND PRODUCTION GRP WORLD GROUP PHOTOGRAPHER: MATT SCHAEFFER MODEL: ELIZABETH SIEMCZYK @ELITE MODELS HAIR STYLIST: EDWIN IRIZARRY MAKEUP ARTIST: GRISELLE ROSARIO 22

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F R E S H FAC E

SASHA BROMFIELD PHOTOGRAPHER: RAZZAQ MANLEY, @MANLEYPHOTOGRAPHY ON INSTAGRAM. MAKEUP ARTIST: TIFFANI RAINS; @ TIFFANIRAINSMUA ON INSTAGRAM.

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Sasha Bromfield is a professional editorial and runway model. Although she found success in the fashion industry over the last five years, lately, she has been working on rebranding herself, starting with a new Instagram account where she allows her “natural self to come out of hiding.” To her, the yearlong process has been “one of the most liberating things” she has ever done. Supported by friends as well as many talented and creative individuals she’s been blessed with meeting on her journey, Bromfield’s efforts are helping her reclaim her truth and move forward with her career. Balancing her personal and professional life has been a challenge; and yet, this year, the Jamaica-born model was able to graduate Cum Laude from Rutgers University, where she majored in Biology and minored in Psychology. “I grew up knowing that education was vital for a successful life,” she explains. “It gives me something to fall back on.” But, based on her participation in the star-studded New York Summer Fashion Explosion this past June, it doesn’t look like she’ll need a career backup plan any time soon. Even though she wasn’t able to make the casting call, she was chosen to walk in the show via her email submission. “At first, I was hesitant to send the email,” reveals Bromfield, “but I decided to shoot my shot.” Situations like this remind the rising model that she is, in fact, a force to be reckoned with.

RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself

5 years ago? SASHA: If I could travel back in time and give my younger self some words of encouragement, I would say: “You are a tall, beautiful, black young lady. You need to be more confident in yourself and claim your blessings.” I’ve always been a humble and quiet woman; it’s only recently that I have become more in touch with myself. I feel like if I had embraced my height and personality at an earlier age, I would be further along in my career.

RAINE: If someone asked you how could they stimulate their creativity, what

advice would you give? SASHA: Personally, I believe meditating is essential to the creative process. At times, the hustle and bustle of the world can be too much. Taking the time out to sit down and listen to your thoughts and ideas is vital for the flow of creative juices.

RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? SASHA: The number one wellness tip I must share with you is to take care of

yourself. Take the time out of every single day to do something you love. These actions could be meditating, going to the salon, reading a book, watching a movie, etc. Whatever makes you happy—just do it. Be selfish and spend time with yourself.

RAINE: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same

or changed throughout the years? SASHA: When I was young, I wanted to be a pediatrician because of my love for the children I babysat and/or played with growing up. I am older than my cousins, so it typically fell on me to watch and care for them. I always got some internal satisfaction from caring for others. I would still very much like to become a pediatrician, but throughout the years I have fallen in love with modeling. I wouldn’t say I’ve given up on my childhood dreams; I’ve just added a few on my journey.

RAINE: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why?

SASHA: Chris, my friend and professional photographer, has been one of my

major supporters. At a time when I was starting to give up on myself, he gave me the courage to push through and take off with a bang. His partner in crime Pat, and Mua Sade are some of the most talented and sweetest people I’ve worked with in my career. Recently I’ve met another dope photographer by the name of Manley, who has been blessing me with his incredible skills. I’m just thankful for everyone I’ve met throughout the years and can’t wait to meet more extraordinary people on the way.

RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on

the rise in your chosen field? SASHA: Do what you love and love what you do. Sometimes it feels like you’re the only one who believes in your dream and nobody will support your ideas and creativity. I’m here to tell you there is hope. People will fall in love with your passion. One day, you will get the acknowledgment you deserve and everyone will see your talents. Stay ambitious and be true to your craft.

RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? SASHA: My definition of failure is giving up. Of course there will be struggles, even

more downs than ups, but if you take your “failures” as lessons, then they won’t get the best of you. My whole philosophy is based on stepping back, breathing, making a new plan, and coming back even stronger.

RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. SASHA: Fierce. Beautiful. Talented. Elegant. Enjoyable.

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RAINE: You’re known in your industry as a tall and elegant

model with an unprecedented talent as a fierce runway walker. What drew you to your passion? SASHA: Before I started modeling, everywhere I went people would stop me dead in my tracks to complement my height and/ or my beauty. They would always ask me if I modeled. As they expressed their views, I wondered: Why don’t I try this modeling stuff everyone’s been talking about? I fell in love with the profession from my first shoot to my first runway show.

RAINE: If there was one thing you could have changed during

your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? SASHA: I feel like I was holding myself back from many opportunities by being too timid and humble. If I had stepped out of my comfort zone earlier, who knows where I would be.

RAINE: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal

of apps, gadgets or software? SASHA: I promote myself through Instagram, because it is one of the most important tools for reaching and staying in touch with the public. I rely on online sources to find new hashtags and reach new avenues.

RAINE: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? SASHA: My most recent collaboration was with New York Summer Fashion Explosion. I was a featured model for the event and walked for Mind of Kye, House of Byfield, Lonnie P and IZAYLA. It was great to meet the designers and all of the other models, so I can’t wait to collaborate with them in the future.

RAINE: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches?

SASHA: My fashion choices definitely affect my success in

the business world. The first impression is often the most lasting impression. People can judge you based on the colors and style of what you’re wearing, as well as your demeanor. Being your bestdressed self, even in casual clothes, is one way of putting your best foot forward.

RAINE: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? SASHA: I have many different styles of fashion depending on the mood I’m in. Sometimes I’m a Solange (earthy and chill), or a Rihanna (sexy and fun), or a Naomi (fierce and sassy), and so on.

RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? SASHA: New York is my favorite city of opportunities, because there are always events going on and new people to meet and network with.You can never be bored with all the excitement that goes on in the city that never sleeps.

“Every time you state what you want or believe, you’re the first to hear it. It’s a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don’t put a ceiling on yourself.” – Oprah Winfrey

C U LT U R E

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MY TRAVELING LIFE:

PROVENCE, FRANCE

BY KATE ROMANOFF

“IF YOU LOVE FOOD AND YOU LOVE RED WINE AND THEY PUT YOU IN FRANCE, YOU’RE IN A GOOD PLACE AND YOU’RE IN A BAD PLACE AT THE SAME TIME. YOU HAVE TO WEIGH YOURSELF EVERY DAY, AND YOU HAVE TO HAVE AN ALARM NUMBER. WHEN YOU GET TO THAT NUMBER, YOU HAVE TO START PUTTING IT IN REVERSE.” — SALMA HAYEK, ACTOR

Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, the historical province of southeastern France is one of the county’s most charming regions. From sleepy villages with exquisite wining and dining options to sprawling lavender fields and picturesque Roman ruins, Provence is one of the most beautiful destinations for people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Because the region has been occupied by different peoples since the dawn of humanity—being one of the first places homo sapiens settled in what is now considered Europe—it has a storied history that makes for a spectacular hub of ethnic influences. From Ancient Greek and Roman accents to the rich cultural traditions of the French, Provence has no shortage of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit and explore. From Avignon (a beautiful city located on the banks of the Rhone River) to the Chauvet Cave, (home to some of the best preserved figurative cave paintings in the world) Provence has a little something for every kind of person. But, what I love most about Provence are its captivating fields of lavender, north of Marseille and east of Avignon. According to The Lavender Museum, “French lavender originates in Persia or in the Canary Islands.” There are three species of the flower that naturally grow in Provence, these are “lavandula vera, lavandula spica and lavandula stoechas.” Seeing the R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

flowers bloom in person is absolutely mesmerizing and is one of my favorite parts of the trip. Interestingly enough, when lavender season is over, the very same fields are covered by the delicate flowers that then become blanketed with sunflowers, or poppies. To anyone who may be wondering if they should invest the time to see these flowers in person, the answer is: “Yes!” Exploring around Provence, however, is not that easy without a rental car. The public transportation system is not well developed, so, if you can, try to find a way to get around on your own. Alternatively, if solo exploration is not your cup of tea, some very informative tours with great and experienced tour guides may be your best option. Either way, I think it’s a notable addition to any itinerary. But, word to the wise, avoid the half-day tours. Aside for the Lavender fields, clearly one of my favorites, check out the Pope’s Palace in Avignon, the old port of Marseille (a gem for history buffs), Gorges du Verdon (another highly recommended spot for nature lovers), and Carrières de Lumières, Les Baux-de-Provence, (an interactive art and history experience like no other). All in all, Provence is one amazing place, and if you have a chance to visit, I really think you should.

SPEND A COUPLE OF DAYS IN THE HISTORICALLY WALLED CITY AVIGNON AND VISIT THE SURROUNDING LUBERON VILLAGES

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See the World Through Raineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eyes

ART

THOMAS ISER ON UNIVERSAL HUMANITY AND THE BUSINESS OF ART

Thomas Iser is a French artist who was born in September of 1987. As a self-taught performer, photographer and painter, he hopes his art inspires people to use their suffering as fuel for accomplishing their dreams. Painting his body in a style resembling the Japanese tradition of Kintsugi pottery, Iser uses black and gold paint to symbolize space and light, respectively. His art represents people coming together to build something unique. Iserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s project, Universal Humanity, includes an impressive number of personalities and artists: Pharrell, Nicole Scherzinger, Bob Sinclar, Gianluca Vacchi, Willem Dafoe, Romero Britto, Mark Seliger, Salt Bae, David Lachapelle, and Gigi Hadidâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;among others. He works with people from every culture, age and sexual orientation, as well as those who are left behind by society, like the homeless. The rising artist also sometimes works hand-inhand with Jean-Claude Jitrois to create bespoke clothing. His art is widely inspired by graffiti and is directly related to his personal journey. Thomas Iser is definitely making a name in the art world by putting all his energy into travelling, meeting people, and connecting the dots to build a masterpiece. www.thomasiser.com

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Photos Credits: Thomas Iser

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RAINE: What’s been a funny behind the scenes moment that you could share? THOMAS: Once, I had the police issue me a summons for graffiti. I painted my window on it and sold it to a lawyer. [For my art,] I usually choose spots that are already destroyed, or places where people don’t care enough to create issues. But, this time, I painted on the top of the stairs of the British embassy. The British embassy was actually really nice—I have to say—because I contacted the embassy and it withdrew the complaint. RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? THOMAS: I would tell myself to be more protective of my inner peace and private life, and not to get too friendly with everybody. RAINE: How would you describe a creative entrepreneur in your own words? THOMAS: A creative entrepreneur is like an alchemist who transforms the insignificant in to the meaningful. RAINE: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? THOMAS: I would tell that person to read inspiring books, exercise, and travel (physically and spiritually). RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? THOMAS: Drive, resilience, and optimism.

RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? THOMAS: Not really. But sometimes, like everyone else, I feel down. It usually never lasts too long. I overcome it with a good swimming session, or skateboarding and meeting friends at the park, or painting. These are the things I do everyday, actually. RAINE: Name your top three hacks for battling the loneliness of entrepreneurship. THOMAS: Surround yourself with good friends, spend some time with your family, and don’t always think about your work. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? THOMAS: Quality sleep, exercise, and healthy food. RAINE: What is your best advice in battling boredom in creative pursuits or creative entrepreneurship? THOMAS: I don’t even know the word, boredom? What is it? I always have too much to do. RAINE: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout the years? THOMAS: It stayed the same. I just want to be happy, work on my projects, and have a positive influence on people.

RAINE: What major project coming up are you most excited about? THOMAS: I am excited about my future destinations, which will be really meaningful and powerful. RAINE: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? THOMAS: Jean Claude Jitrois and his team. They are all really passionate about what they are doing. His clothes are actual works of art. RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? THOMAS: I would say, be confident and feel free to dare. RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? THOMAS: By having a strong, long-term vision. RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? THOMAS: Failure is just a process of evolution. Fall 7 times but get up 8. RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. THOMAS: There is Instagram for that. RAINE: We love transformation. If you experienced a personal or professional evolution, what was the inspiration behind it how have people reacted?

THOMAS: My projects are dedicated to humanity, but are also designed to heal myself. They are my way of coping with reality. The message behind my work is universal, so everybody can understand it. The transformation is actually spiritual growth. Having contact with thousands of people and traveling always keeps me down to earth. RAINE: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? THOMAS: Once, I wanted to kill myself. I was at my breaking point, where I had to choose either to destroy myself or to build myself up. I chose life. Now, this experience helps me excel, because after it happened, I cared less about the little things that don’t matter and focused my energy on constructing something positive. So, lets say resurrection. RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? THOMAS: Technology is great, especially the Internet. It allows people with talent to be noticed. But, popularity doesn’t always mean quality. RAINE: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets or software? THOMAS: Instagram. Definitely. RAINE: How does being an independent brand or artist allow you to have more creative freedom? THOMAS: There is no art without freedom.

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RAINE: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? THOMAS: Lets see, I have a few contacts that could be really interesting. But, if life taught me anything, it’s that I can only rely on myself. RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? THOMAS: I have no signature look. I think it is better that people look at what I am doing rather than what I am wearing. If I wear something eccentric, I’ve probably made it. Most of the time, I am casual. RAINE: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? THOMAS: The last time I was working on a mural for a private collector, I was hungry and went for something to eat at a fancy bakery. I was looking all messed up

because of the paint, etc. They took more time to serve me than they would have if I came in wearing a tuxedo, trust me. RAINE: What is the biggest problem that creatives face today and how would you solve it? THOMAS: Censorship. I believe creative people and their work must be accepted, otherwise the artists starve to death. RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play, and why? THOMAS: Maybe, New York. This city is really inspiring. So, many different people here are driven to do something big. It’s a melting pot; I have seen people in New York that I would otherwise never believe exist. It totally fits in with my project.

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A U T H O R F E AT U R E GOOD READ

TIFFANY SHLAIN, FILMMAKER, AUTHOR, INTERNET ADVOCATE H O W T O U N P L U G A N D C H A N G E T H E W O R L D , I N T E R N E T A D V O C A T E A N D E M M YN O M I N AT E D F I L M M A K E R T I F F A N Y S H L A I N O N T E C H N O L O G Y S H A B B AT S

Honored by Newsweek as one of the “Women Shaping the 21st Centur y,” Tiffany Shlain is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker, founder of The Webby Awards, and author of 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week (2019). The book, which will be published by Simon & Schuster in September, explores her family’s decade-long practice of “Technology Shabbats” (turning off all screens for one day each week); the histor y, psychology and science of technology; and the ramifications of our 24/7 world—for individuals, society, and democracy. The Alber t Einstein Foundation selected Tiffany for its Genius: 100 Visions of the Future initiative; she will be featured in the upcoming book and will join a group of people coming together to tackle today’s biggest issues. She is also the co-founder of Character Day and 50/50 Day, two global initiatives that unite millions of people through film, discussion material, and a livestream to address impor tant issues that are shaping our lives. Character Day explores the science of character development; 2019’s focus is on the relationship between one’s character and screen use, and will be held on Sept 27-28. 50/50 Day focuses on promoting gender equality, the next event will take place in April 2020. Tiffany’s work and films have received over 80 awards and distinctions, including premieres at The Sundance Film Festival and being selected by The US State Depar tment to represent America around the world. Her films include the feature documentar y Connected, The Adaptable Mind, and her original series The Future Starts Here, which received over 40 million views. She ser ves on the Leadership Board of The Center on Media and Child Health at Har vard’s Boston Children’s Hospital, and on the advisor y board for WaitUntil8th.org, an organization that encourages parents to delay purchasing smar tphones for children. She runs the Let it Ripple Film Studio in San Francisco, and lives with her husband and two daughters in the Bay Area. Find out more at tiffanyshlain.com Follow: @TiffanyShlain RAINE: If someone asked you about how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? TIFFANY: Turn off all screens for one day ever y week. It has been a lifechanging practice that my family and I have done for the last decade. It has created an incredibly fer tile space for creativity to bloom in many forms. RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? TIFFANY: Communication: To express your vision and bring it into existence. Persistence: To stay focused. A good sense of humor: To enjoy the ride. RAINE: Name your top three hacks for battling the loneliness of entrepreneurship.

TIFFANY: I am a part of four groups that create community and keep me grounded and supported. First, I am part of a film director’s group that meets monthly called Film Fatales. Second, I’m a part of a fellowship where we do readings, and support each other in good and hard times through The Aspen Institute. Third, I co-started a monthly writer’s group with two fellow writers and great friends. (I cannot recommend this enough. You can start one today. Think of several people you admire in your industry and ask to meet once a month, switching turns hosting.) Lastly, our film studio also has a fantastic board of directors that we meet with twice a year. These types of groups allow people to surround themselves with those who support their efforts as well as give people a chance to help others. This keeps everyone inspired while they’re trying to accomplish big things in this world. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? TIFFANY: When you wake up, do not look at your phone for at least 30 minutes. Write in a journal instead. I highly recommend The Five Minute Journal to get you started; it will reframe your whole day. Instead of the stress brought on by news, or email dictating your mood or day, you can have some time to plan and reflect on what you hope your day will be. Every morning, I write three things that I am grateful for as well as three things that I think would be great if they were to happen that day. It has been huge. It helps me quietly think through my day in a quiet way before I get started. RAINE: What upcoming major project are you most excited about? TIFFANY: My first book coming out this September!:) I spent the first part of my career doing The Webby Awards, then the second part making films using the Web to create social change, so I’m excited to explore this beautiful old form of communication—putting words on paper. I really loved the process and creative constraint of only being able to express the ideas and stories in words, without the use of images or sound. Online, things speed on by, but there’s something defiant in our 24/7 in spending two years refining words to express ideas that will be permanently set in a book. RAINE: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? TIFFANY: I got very lucky when Anna Deavere Smith was assigned as my mentor for my Henry Crown Fellowship at the Aspen Institute. There was a key moment in my career when I was really unsure if I should accept an offer to do an Original Series for a big corporation out of fear they would impinge on my creative control; I had been an independent creator for most of my career. She was so clear in her conviction that I should take the opportunity and not look back that it helped me stop questioning the decision and get going.That turned into my original series for AOL called The Future Starts Here. I was given a blank slate to create, and it was a fantastic experience. It ended up getting nominated for an Emmy Award and we did two seasons. RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns, and obstacles of your career? TIFFANY: In my early twenties, I ran out of money and had a creative block on my first feature film. It was a huge disappointment and I felt like a massive failure, like I had let everyone down. Failing that big and publicly at the start of my career

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provided so many lessons that I am seriously grateful for, but one of the biggest was learning that knowing when to stop something, is just as important to know when to start something. I kept going back to this film, going into debt, working in technology to climb out of debt, and then going back in. After around 3 years of this, I understood that although I had never quit anything, it was time to move on. It was painful but an important lesson. RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. TIFFANY: I love that you chose five words. When I founded the Webby Award in 1996, one of the things we established was a five-word acceptance speech rule. In the twenty plus years it has happened, no one has gone over. Even though I do other projects now, I always tune in to the ceremony for those five words—it’s one of my favorite parts of the show. So my five words to describe myself are the following: enthusiastic, disciplined, loves to laugh. RAINE: We love transformation. If you experienced a personal or professional evolution, what was the inspiration behind it and how have people reacted? TIFFANY: I think it’s surprising for people to learn that someone like myself, who was immersed in the tech industry since I was a teen, is now looking in the opposite direction. A decade ago, in a matter of days my father died and my daughter was born, and it really made me rethink how I was spending my time and how little time we have.That was when my family and I started this weekly practice we call “Technology Shabbat” where we turn off our screens. It has been transformative to say the least; I feel happier, more creative, and productive. I just spent the last two years working on a book about the history of technology, time on and time off, and how we need to create space without screens. The book is coming out this fall from Simon & Schuster’s Gallery Books. The pre-order page is live on Amazon, so you can check it out to learn more about my journey and how to bring this practice into your lives. It’s called 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week. For the launch of the book we are inviting people to try turning off their screens for one day each week for 4 weeks; we will be there to support you and provide ideas on what to do and on how to engage your family, friends, and partner. If you’re interested in joining us, you can sign up at characterday.org. Character Day is an annual event my film studio orchestrates that looks at the latest neuroscience and social science on developing who you are, and who you want to be. This year the focus will be on your character and screen use. RAINE: What are your superpowers? TIFFANY: The ability and desire to create frameworks for the public to delve into important subjects shaping our lives. Whether it was the Web when it first came out, the subjects of some of my films, or the important conversation we’re now having about creating a regular practice of unplugging to restore, rebalance, and reconnect with yourself as well as the people in your life, and ultimately contribute more to society. In a world where everyone is online, you can gain such a powerful perspective being detached from it. I really do think everyone’s superpower could be regularly unplugging from their screens. RAINE: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets or software? TIFFANY: 1. Asana, for keeping a to do list with my team at my film studio. 2. Clara, my AI scheduling bot that manages all of my calls. 3. A notebook day planner. It has lots of blank pages and a weekly schedule, so instead of always pulling out my phone, I pull out this notebook.

Photo credits: Lauri Levenfeld

RAINE: How does being an independent brand or artist allow you to have more creative freedom? TIFFANY: I am not beholden to anyone. RAINE: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? TIFFANY: Iris Apfel. I love that she continues to think of fashion as a canvas to paint each day in her 90s. May we all continue to play like that as we get older. RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? TIFFANY: I love San Francisco because it’s my hometown and has been at the forefront of so many movements, from the Beats and free speech to free love, gay rights, and the Web and fresh ideas. However, the other place that feels like my creative home is Manhattan. I feel alive there in a way that is electric.

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EVENTS

MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENTS AT E3 2019: MICROSOFT GOES BIG WHILE SONY SITS OUT BY LIZ CAMPESE

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holders Microsoft and Nintendo, as well as Square Enix (occupying a time normally held by Sony). Even Google held a Stadia Connect event just before E3.”

“EVERY AGE HAS ITS STORYTELLING FORM, AND VIDEO GAMING IS A HUGE PART OF OUR CULTURE. YOU CAN IGNORE OR EMBRACE VIDEO GAMES AND IMBUE THEM WITH THE BEST ARTISTIC QUALITY. PEOPLE ARE ENTHRALLED WITH VIDEO GAMES IN THE SAME WAY AS OTHER PEOPLE LOVE THE CINEMA AND THEATER” – ANDY SERKIS This year, the Electronic Entertainment Expo [E3]—a massive annual conference that drives video game enthusiasts crazy with excitement—took place at the Los Angeles Convention Center from June 11th to June 13th. A little over 66,000 people gathered for its 25th event, during which heavy hitters in the gaming industry—ranging from hardware manufacturers and coders to relevant publishers—presented new and upcoming products to the attendees. Although E3 has been the premier tradeshow geared toward professionals working in electronic entertainment—like retailers and members of the press—in recent years, its popularity has been growing among gaming fans looking to learn about major upcoming releases from their favorite companies and influencers. Since the recurring event had been closed to the general public for most of its run, its newly relaxed attendee policy has been changing the very nature of the Expo itself.

Photo Credits: E3

As a more welcoming platform, E3 now feels less like an industry tradeshow and more like a gaming-focused fusion of Comic-Con and SXSW. Celebrities (like Jack Black and Elon Musk), tech and lifestyle brands (think LucidSound and Raine Magazine), vendors, musicians (Snoop Dogg), social media influencers, and more fans than ever before are showing up in record numbers, but some of the tradeshow’s regular platform holders are sitting out for the first time in the expo’s history.

No new gaming hardware was actually revealed during this year’s E3. But, in the days leading up to the trade show, numerous press conferences and streaming broadcasts revealed which upcoming games are slated for release in the foreseeable future, from Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order (11/15/19) and Marvel’s Avengers 2077 (05/15/20) to Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (10/20/19) and Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout (TBD 2020). One of the Expo’s most talked about moments came courtesy of Keanu Reeves, who made a surprise appearance at Microsoft’s event for the highly anticipated Xbox One game Cyberpunk 2077 (set to drop on 04/16/20). According to Newsweek’s Steven Asarch, Mo Mozuch, and Jen Glennon, the game “puts players in a massive, living world full of cybernetic enhancements, high-drama hacking and plenty of gunplay.” The megastar was there to announce his role as one of the title’s main characters, which made a huge impression on the crowd, with one person screaming, “You’re breathtaking!” as Reeves was trying to use the same word to describe the game. In another major moment for Microsoft, the company announced its upcoming console, “Project Scarlett.” Slated for release in 2020, the new gaming device is rumored to be the most powerful and highest performing console designed by the company yet, though no imagery was provided or price point given. Sony is also set to debut its next generation Playstation next year, which marks another console showdown between the two gaming giants. Game manufacturers are only as successful as game creators.The annual E3 College Game Competition was rather heated this year. According to the Entertainment Software Organization [ESA] press release, which organizes the annual expo: “A panel of industry professionals and experts selected Drexel University’s Sons of Ra as the winner of the 2019 E3 College Game Competition. Drexel University joined UQAT, the winner of Canada’s E3 College Game Competition, and Ennui, the winner of Videojuegos competition for Mexico. The competition recognizes the best in college and university game design, giving finalists the opportunity to show their games on the E3 show floor alongside industry powerhouses including Nintendo, Epic, Ubisoft, Capcom,Take-Two Interactive, Bethesda Softworks, Square Enix, and more.” All in all, the 2019 Electronic Entertainment Expo offered insight into the future of gaming and the 135 billion dollar built around it. From industry professionals to industry influencers and enthusiasts, this year’s Expo featured the absolute best of the gaming world.

Sony PlayStation was notably absent this year, which is a bit strange since it’s one of the three major console manufacturers in the industry. Speculation about the company’s real reasons behind the decision is ongoing, with some sources suggesting that Sony is aiming to create its own events, more inline with how E3 was originally organized. Still, news from some of the industry’s most influential companies generated a lot of buzz and anticipation. According to GameSpot’s Chris Pereira: “While the show may be in a state of undeniable upheaval, many of the industry’s biggest players are still coming to the show, including platformR A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

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A MODERN HOME WITH A BEATLE PEDIGREE

Story and Photo Credits: Top Ten Realestate News

HOME & DESIGN

California hot spot Venice Beach has drawn celebrities, surfers, bohemians and sun worshipers since the beginning of the 20th century. Starting out as a sedate seasideresort town, today it’s a whirlwind of activity attracting those who enjoy having the party atmosphere always available around the corner. A recent addition to the Venice market is the sophisticated home of the son of Beatles guitarist George Harrison, priced at $3.99 million. Never a dull moment in Venice with its wide beach, surfing and exploring the Ocean Front Walk with its two-and-a-half-mile promenade filled with a buffet of vendors, art and quirky performers. Muscle Beach Venice was largely responsible for the booming interest in weight training beginning in the 1950s and the Vic Tanny gym chain began in Venice. Beach sports gained huge popularity on Venice Beach from handball courts, volleyball, paddle tennis, a bike trail and a skate-dancing pavillion. After a day at the beach there is an array of upscale restaurants, bars, art galleries and shops for every taste, interest and pocketbook. Originally called the Venice of America due to the drainage canals dug in the 1920s by the town’s original developer, tobacco-baron Abbott Kinney, a widerange of plush residences line them today, as was Kenney’s original goal. Many are

used as year-round homes and others as vacation getaways. Musician Dhani Harrison has recently decided to sell his glamorous canal home that enjoys the sunrise from the rear balcony, the sunset from the west, 360-degree views from the rooftop terrace and water views from the canal-side terrace and decks. Measuring in at 2,826 square feet, the two-bedroom, three-bath home has an open floor plan with soaring ceilings. Second-level glass walls and open first-floor ceilings bathe the interior with sunlight as does the large skylight above the wide spiral stair. Updated in crisp contemporary style, the home offers multiple choices for entertaining on all three levels and has recently appeared in Architectural Digest. Dhani, the only child of George and Olivia Harrison, has been writing and singing professionally since 2001. He has completed a number of albums and since 2013 has been composing film scores with his writing partner Paul Hicks. They have written the scores for Netflix’s Dogs and HBO’s four-part documentary series The Case Against Adnan Syed. He has recently decided to sell his Venice home, priced at $3.99 million. Co-listing agents are Nicholas Sandler and Bennett Hirsch of The Agency, Beverly Hills.

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FILM & TV MUSIC

Photographer: Samuel Whitworth @fashionstudios Stylist: Marni Seabright @marniseabright

JAYLEN BARRON TALKS ACTING, REPRESENTATION & WHAT IT TAKES TO SUCCEED IN HOLLYWOOD

GROWING UP IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, JAYLEN BARRON KNEW SHE WANTED TO BE AN ACTRESS FROM A YOUNG AGE. BEING FROM A MULTICULTURAL FAMILY, SHE ALWAYS TOOK GREAT PRIDE IN HER AFRICAN AMERICAN AND LATINA HERITAGE. UNDERSTANDABLY, SHE WAS DISMAYED TO FIND VERY FEW ACTORS THAT LOOKED LIKE HER ONSCREEN. DRIVEN BY THE DESIRE TO MAKE A CHANGE, BARRON DECIDED THAT SHE WANTED TO PURSUE A CAREER IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY.

Noticing her daughter’s passion for reaching her goal, Barron’s mom took her to get headshots; she soon landed her first job as a model for the girls clothing brand Justice. While making her mark in the world of modeling, she continued to pursue her dream of acting in hopes of emulating her childhood role models, one of whom is Halle Berry.

Barron’s first foray onto the small screen came when she was cast as Melanie on Disney’s Shake It Up. Shortly after, she recurred on Nickelodeon’s See Dad Run as Emily’s best friend Mary; as well as Good Luck Charlie as Lauren Dabney, the love interest of Gabe Duncan. Other memorable appearances include guest spots on Bones and Those Who Can’t. Though these were some of her very first performances, her talent did not go unnoticed and earned her nominations for four Young Artist Awards. Her big break came when she landed a heavily recurring role on Showtime’s Emmy-winning drama series Shameless. Barron portrayed Dominique, the girlfriend of Ethan Cutkosky’s character, Carl. Dominique is a good girl with bad girl tendencies that goes on a downward spiral. She shared the screen with the all-star cast including William H. Macy, Emmy Rossum, Jeremy Allen White, and Steve Howey. At 21 years old, Barron continues to take Hollywood by storm. She can currently be seen as the lead on the award-winning Netflix series Free Rein. She stars as Zoe, a 15-year-old from Los Angeles who spends the summer at her mom’s childhood home on an island off the coast of England. After befriending a mysterious horse during the summer, she finds the strength to deal with the issues she faces. Her character is the only black female on the equestrian team, making her the first American person of color to play the lead in a Netflix children’s original series. The hit series has won two Daytime Emmys, including one for Outstanding Children’s Series, and earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Children’s Program. Season 3 premiered on July 6th. She is also showcasing her talent behind the camera in the voiceover world. Barron can currently be heard in the animated short series Explosion Jones alongside Danny Trejo, Vivica A. Fox, Michael Madsen, Carl Weathers, and James Hong. When she is not busy acting, Barron enjoys cooking, watching documentaries and, most importantly, spending time with her family. She also loves working out by putting in time at the gym or outdoors. Barron loves fashion and prides herself on keeping up with the latest styles and trends. She currently resides in the Los Angeles area.

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RAINE: What’s been a funny behind the scenes moment that you could share? JAYLEN: I had a hairpiece under my helmet on Free Rein. While riding, it just flew off! Can you believe that? I still laugh about it.

RAINE: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? JAYLEN: My super power is that I can be any character at any time in any place. I adapt quickly. This has allowed me to deal with the anxiety I sometimes carry around.

RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? JAYLEN: It will all be okay.

RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? JAYLEN: This is tricky because I may sound a bit salty, but sometimes I feel like someone needs little to no talent to become famous with the social networks we have available to us. In today’s world of social media, if you have a large following then you’re worthy of people’s time; popularity turns into: How much money can we make if we use you? There are so many talented people who miss out on opportunities simply because they are unknown—for now. It’s not all bad, of course, but it has changed for sure.

RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? JAYLEN: Work ethic. Perseverance. Passion. RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? JAYLEN: Yes, but only after long periods of time away from my family and friends. I ask myself: Is this worth it? What am I doing? Does anybody even like me? At that point I a) talk with my mom b) do something for myself: any little something to refocus, like go to the gym, spa, or engage in reading. c) watch Dr. Phil or Iyanla: Fix my Life (my guilty pleasure). [I also rely on] my comfort foods and my dogs. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? JAYLEN: Eat right, drink water, and always have a good skin care routine. RAINE: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout the years? JAYLEN: I have always wanted to be an actor—it hasn’t changed, ever. I can’t see myself doing anything else. RAINE: What major project coming up are you most excited about? JAYLEN: Season 3 of my show Free Rein. RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? JAYLEN: You are your only competition; in the audition room, don’t look to see who’s there, because what is yours is yours, but always remember to make it extremely hard for them to say no to you. RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? JAYLEN: I have a great support system at home, and with my friends—who are and are not in the business. RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? JAYLEN: If you’re constantly moving forward, in any and all tasks, failure is only a lesson learned.

RAINE: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets or software? JAYLEN: My phone, of course! It’s instant communication. RAINE: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? JAYLEN: No plans yet, but it would be a dream of mine to partner with Chanel or Fenty Beauty. RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? JAYLEN: I don’t know if I have a signature look, but my hair is definitely something I love to show. RAINE: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? JAYLEN: Yes, of course! Fashion is more about how you feel than how you look. If you feel great, you’re going to look great. I feel people can sense that as soon as you walk into a room. RAINE: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? JAYLEN: Rihanna is my inspiration. Need I say more? She’s an icon. RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? JAYLEN: Los Angeles is where it’s at. Great people of all backgrounds, great food, the nightlife is poppin’ and the weather is usually right.

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AMBER NASH ON

IM P ROV, VOIC EOVERS ,

Amber Nash found her way to the entertainment industry in a rather unique way. A native of Lilburn, Georgia, she loved making her parents, sister, and classmates laugh as a child. After high school, she enrolled at Georgia State University where she earned a B.S. in Psychology. It was during her time at Georgia State that Nash saw her first improv show and immediately signed up for classes. Though she was excited about the creative outlet improv brought to her life, after college she put her degree to use and worked for the State of Georgia at a Wilderness Camp for troubled teens. After a few years of using her skills to make a difference in the lives of the campers, she made the decision to pursue acting full time. In 2004, Nash started performing improv regularly as an ensemble member at Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta, where she also served as Education Director. She also lent her talents to a local troupe called Laughing Matters and continued to hone her craft by doing voiceover work for the local radio station. Through her work at Dad’s Garage, Nash caught the eye of Matt Thompson and Adam Reed of Floyd County Productions who would forever change the course of her career. Nash got her start in the world of television voiceover when Thompson and Reed cast her in their Adult Swim series Frisky Dingo, where R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

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she voiced Val and a number of other characters. Her work led to an offer to voice Pam Poovey on the award winning and critically acclaimed FX/FXX show Archer. Her character Pam is the former head of an international spy agency and has become a fan-favorite on the show. The series has been honored with two Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Animated Program and a Critics Choice Television Award for Best Animated Series as well as a Gold Derby TV Award to name just a few. Nash’s character has garnered a lot of buzz and is referred to as “real hero of Archer” by BuzzFeed. The tenth season is airing now. She also co-created and hosts the aftershow Archer After Hours with her co-star Lucky Yates. The show streams on the Archer Facebook page. In addition to her voiceover work, Nash also explored a new medium with a role in the web series Hart of America, a performance that earned her an Indie Series Award nomination for Best Actress in Comedy. She has also stayed busy teaching, creating and writing shows, performing in thousands of improv shows, and touring all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. She has worked with Second City in Atlanta at the Alliance Theatre, and for Norwegian Cruise Lines. Nash also collaborated with Dad’s Garage and a group of performers with special needs on a short film project called That Was Awesome. When she is not busy acting, Nash loves to travel. She is also an amateur interior decorator and is currently restoring an old camper with her father, which will become her backyard guesthouse. She is passionate about animals and serves as a board member for Project Chimps, a Georgia-based sanctuary for retired research chimpanzees. Nash resides in Atlanta with her husband, Dad’s Garage Artistic Director, Kevin Gillese, and their brindle Pitbull named Carol. 65

Raine: From an early age your love for comedy flourished allowing you to make friends and be comfortable in almost any situation. Can you describe your experiences and how they helped fine-tune your craft? Amber: I was an awkward looking kid. I was snaggletoothed, my mom cut my hair, and I was chubby. This became the perfect recipe for comedy. I realized that if I wanted to make friends, I needed to do something, and making other kids laughed seemed to do the trick. This ability has served me well throughout my life. It makes me comfortable trying new things, meeting new people, and navigating uncomfortable situations. In college, I found improv and that only furthered my comedy education. I am still an ensemble member at Dad’s Garage Theatre in Atlanta and perform there regularly. I met my husband, got my role on Archer, and met most of my friends through improv. Raine: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? Amber: Enjoy it, don’t be so worried about the next thing that you forget how awesome this job is! Raine: If someone asked you how could they stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? Amber: I’d tell them to take an improv class. It changed my life. It’s a great way to open your mind and collaborate with others. Being in a space where failure is encouraged (there are no mistakes) and everyone has your back is very liberating and can really stimulate creativity.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO WORK FOR FREE IN THE BEGINNING, YOU DON’T KNOW NEARLY AS MUCH AS YOU THINK YOU DO,

Raine: What wellness tips do you swear by? Amber: I really think sleep and self-care are so important. Oftentimes, it is kind of looked at as weakness — to need to rest. Which is crazy. You have to recharge if you are going to be of any value to your career and the people you are working with. Go on vacation! Or at least take a day to yourself! Raine: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout the years? Amber: When I started in this career path, I said that all I wanted was to be able to make a living doing what I love. I have been so lucky to be able to do that, but what I love has changed as I’ve grown in my career. Now, my focus has shifted more towards on camera work. I’d love to have my own show. Raine: What major project coming up are you most excited about? Amber: My husband, two friends and myself have started our own production company and we are in pre-production for a feature film. It’s indie and super low

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budget, and I’m so excited to start shooting. It is a very sweet, funny Christmas movie. We have an actor with special needs that we’ve worked with in the past and he’s amazing, his name is Luke and he will be playing my brother in the film. Raine: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? Amber: I didn’t actually get to work with him in the same room, that’s not how we do things on Archer, but Christian Slater was a guest on our show for quite some time. He joined us one year for New York Comic Con and I walked into the green room before our panel and introduced myself, and Christian Slater — CHRISTIAN SLATER — said he was a fan of my work. My inner 80’s kid went berserk. I, on the other hand, played it real cool. Raine: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? Amber: Don’t be afraid to work for free in the beginning, you don’t know nearly as much as you think you do, and a lot of jobs that can’t pay in money, pay in experience and that can be just as if not more valuable. Raine: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? Amber: I always tell myself if I don’t get a role that I really want, or if a project doesn’t pan out, it’s just making room for the next bigger thing that is just around the corner. Raine: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? Amber: I learned early on the value of being good to work with. I might not always be the perfect person for the job, but people want to work with me and that has gotten me a lot of opportunities. Be good to work with. That can mean a lot of things, but for me, it means don’t be difficult; respect peoples time, talent and opinions; be easy going; have a point of view; be passionate; do your work; take responsibility when you make mistakes; and have a sense of humor. I’m pretty sure I got the job on Archer not because I was a standout vocal talent, but because Matt and Adam liked to work with me. Raine: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? Amber: Vintage/ thrift/ weird/kitsch, I started shopping at thrift stores in high school because it’s all I could afford, and then I just fell in love. You never have to worry about being in the same outfit as someone else if you’ve got some weird thrift store outfit on. It makes getting dressed a lot more fun as well. I love bold patterns. But I also try to pair vintage stuff with more neutral, “regular” pieces, so that the overall affect is interesting and not insane. Raine: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? Amber: I’m not sure. I guess people can see that I’m creative.

OLIVER TREVENA

ON FINDING PEACE AND FINDING SUCCESS IN ENTERTAINMENT

Photo credits: Josh Beech

Oliver Trevena is a British actor and media personality. Throughout his career, Trevena has interviewed hundreds of celebrities and musicians for various outlets, such as the Hollywood Reporter, Young Hollywood, GQ, Sirius XM’s Dirty Pop alongside N-Sync’s Lance Bass, as well as Esquire Network’s Joyride alongside T- Pain and Mischa Barton, and more. As an actor, Trevena just wrapped filming The Rising Hawk, Embattled, and Grand Isle with Nicolas Cage and Kelsey Grammer. Aside from his appearances in feature films, he has also guest-starred in numerous series. RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? OLIVER: That things always work out. Get out of your head and out of your own way. Oh, and persistence pays off! RAINE: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? OLIVER: I star ted meditating a year ago, it really helps the mental/creative blocks I have, so I strongly suggest it!

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RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? OLIVER: Drive. Vision. Passion. RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? OLIVER: Yes, for sure. I actually went away to a retreat with no technology (like cell phones), and then I worked on a children’s shelter in Thailand (took about 6 weeks off). Obviously, I know that’s not easy for everyone to do, so my advice would be to take a few days to be alone, stay away from technology, and ground yourself. RAINE: Name your top three hacks for battling the loneliness of entrepreneurship. OLIVER: -Don’t be alone. Find other people with similar mindsets. They are out there! -Get outside. See the world a little—the ocean, the mountains, and the people. -Stay as healthy as possible, and stay conscious about what’s going into your body as that affects your mind massively. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? OLIVER: NAD IVs and Cryo. I go to a place called Next Health, where I am massively helped by their new age wellness approach; they have ways to reprogram the body and the mind. RAINE: What did you want to be when you grew up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout the years? OLIVER: My main passion is enter tainment; it has been since I was a kid, and always will be. But, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve definitely enjoyed producing things and creating more on the business side. I’d like to be involved in more wellness companies that change people’s lives. I’m currently one of the investors of Dogpound, and it’s amazing to see how much fitness can change people’s minds and attitudes for the better. RAINE: What major project coming up are you most excited about? OLIVER: Probably the movies I have coming out. Also, on the business side, my beverage company Caliwater, as well as helping grow Dogpound. RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? OLIVER: Failures are inevitable. Don’t let them stop you! RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? OLIVER: Suppor tive friends and family have definitely helped, but also the fact that I want it that much; nothing has stopped me, no matter how tough it’s been at times.

RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? OLIVER: MOVE ON! It’s in the past. RAINE: You’re known in your industry as an enter tainer with an unprecedented talent as an actor. What drew you to your passion? OLIVER: Since I was a kid, I’ve loved being on the stage, performing, getting to be someone else—and moving people in some capacity. RAINE: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? OLIVER: I wouldn’t be so hard on myself! Procrastination gets you nowhere! RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers. OLIVER: Technology has changed the industry for newcomers in every way. People now have platforms, and are seen like never before. RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? OLIVER: I’ve been the global ambassador for Allsaints for 8 years now, so that pretty much sums it up! Photo Credit: Josh Beech

RAINE: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? OLIVER: I think it’s always impor tant to dress well and put the strongest foot forward. RAINE: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? OLIVER: No one, really. I’ve always kind of just made my own choices in that field! RAINE: What are your thoughts about crypto currency? OLIVER: I’m still somewhat out of the loop. I need to catch up! RAINE: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? OLIVER: LA or London. Love them both. Each is totally different! R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

Photos Courtesy of Sprayground

I N T H E N A M E O F M U S I C AFROJACK TEAMS UP WITH SPRAYGROUND

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Global backpack and accessories brand, Sprayground, has announced its latest collaboration with Grammy-winning Dutch DJ and music executive Afrojack, to develop a music and fashion inspired lifestyle bag with practical functionality called “Afroshark.” Afrojack and Sprayground founder David Ben David decided to collaborate on a fully functional and fashionable backpack designed for DJs on tour.This is the first time that Sprayground has worked with a musician in the popular electronic dance music scene and specifically with Afrojack, and together have designed and developed the brand’s most versatile bag to date. Sprayground dialed into functionality for this partnership, making it ideal for the fashion-forward, particularly with multiple carrying options and a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate a 17-inch laptop. The backpack has as a sleek, chic, allwhite design made with vegan leather, flaunting the infamous “shark mouth” logo in a classy bold red and black colorway. This winning design has designated partitions for USB sticks, wires and cables, microphones, compact cameras, external hard drives and other accessories securely stored in zipped compartments. The bag is now available online via sprayground.com for RRP: $99. “As a DJ on the road, it’s hard to find a fashionable and functional backpack for a touring artist who can hold all the necessary items needed all in one place,” Afrojack said. “I’ve been wanting to work with a brand like Sprayground who continues to make dope designs and versatile products and I’m excited to get this backpack out for the fans!” Afrojack is currently on tour this summer and set to perform in NYC on August 30th at the Electric Zoo music festival. Both creatives have a large following and a substantial online presence, and through this project have forged a lucrative partnership. @sprayground | @afrojack

ABOUT AFROJACK

Named the #8 DJ in the world by DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs poll of 2018 (marking his eighth consecutive year of appearing in the Top 12), Afrojack is one of the most popular dance music acts of today and a sought-after producer. Throughout the years, he has worked with everyone from Pitbull to Sting and Beyoncé, won a Grammy for his and David Guetta’s remix of Madonna’s ‘Revolver’, and released an array of diverse hits. This year, having just released multiple collaborations, Afrojack continues to follow suit, and dominate dance floors across the globe.

ABOUT SPRAYGROUND Developed in 2010, Sprayground has become a leader in the accessories industry through quality, art, and function. Founder and head designer, David Ben David has managed to create a brand that is trendy and relatable. The brand has built a reputation for attention-grabbing artwork themes such as Dragon Ball Z and Fortnite.

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RENA OWEN TA K I N G F E A R B Y T H E H O R N S

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From theater to film to television, awardwinning actor Rena Owen is a creative force to reckon with. Although she has an international background, Rena was born in New Zealand, and is one of nine children. Her acting career did not begin in high school or college, as it does for many; instead, Rena first trained in the medical field and became a nurse. It was only after she moved to London, that she decided to pursue an acting career. Rena received worldwide acclaim for her role in the Kiwi classic Once Were Warriors. Since then, she’s had the honor of working with everyone, from George Lucas to Steven Spielberg, and is slated to take the lead in Freeform’s hit mermaid drama, Siren. As a writer, director, and dramaturge, Rena is also one of the founding members of Taki Rua Theatre. Raine spoke with Rena Owen to learn about the multi-talented creative entrepreneur. RAINE: Can you describe your experiences and how they helped fine-tune your craft?

RENA: I have been an actor for 34 years, and it’s really kicking in now—the amount

of experience I have in terms of refining my craft. Young actors, or younger people, are self-conscious, full of insecurities, and full of fears. Confidence soars with experience. It’s [that] simple. In our 20s, we’re always trying to find out who we are, in our own ways! So, once we get past [this age], and the more [experience] we have, the more we realize it’s all about relaxing and just being ourselves—allowing [the craft] to flow rather than forcing it.

RAINE: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice

would you give? RENA: Creative minds need to be focused on something they are passionate about; then they can obsess on that thing until it is finished.

RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? RENA: I have quite a few. There is a certain truth to the idea—we are what we eat.

Photo Credit: Caren Davis

I’ve always eaten real food. I am also a big believer in yoga. Wherever I am, I find a place where I can go to yoga classes. If I can’t get to yoga or a Pilates class, I walk. I love nature; for me, nature walks are a form of meditation. I do these things no matter what country I am in; it’s the way that I grew up.

RAINE: What is your viewpoint of failure and how to best deal with it? RENA: If we fail at something, failure provides us with the opportunity to try it again

and do it better. Failure defeats too many people and they stop. You have to pick yourself up and try again.

RAINE: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? RENA: If people want drama or a performance full of big emotion, I can give that to them. It is almost like a superpower! I have always been emotionally intelligent. To channel the human condition, you have to have empathy. Empathy comes from sensitivity. That’s how I work as an actor—I feel my way through everything.

RAINE: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? RENA: It changed the industry enormously! My first films were made on celluloid. Now, a person can make a film on an iPhone. It’s a whole digital era; what people

can do digitally [is incredible].

RAINE: What is the biggest problem that creatives face today and how would you solve it?

RENA: Fear. And that’s for the majority of people, not just creatives. If you continue to energize your fears and energize your doubts, you will never move past them.

RAINE: What is your signature look? RENA: My signature look [evolved] out of necessity; it’s all about black. Because I travel so much and can only take a certain amount of luggage with me on any given trip, I choose black—it’s simple and goes with everything.

Creative minds need to be focused on something they are passionate about, and then they will obsess on that one passion until it is finished. RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did

you overcome it? RENA: I wrote in the early part of my career. In that period, I wrote screenplays, which served me well. I was also well served by my first mentor. When I trained as an actor in London in the 1980s, she was probably the most famous woman on television. Her name was Anne Mitchell. She was in her 40s and struggling, even though she was one of the most famous actors in Britain. She said—and this is one of the best pieces of advice she gave to me—that no actor is ever sustained full-time on acting work. No actor! Not even when you’re famous! You have to have something else that you want to get out of bed for; otherwise, you’ll keep falling into that black hole of depression. She said: “You can write! You’re a fantastic writer.” Thank God she told me that, because that is what sustained me creatively in my 40s.

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FROM DANCE TO JOURNALISM: MEDIA PERSONALITY

LYNDSAY CHRISTIAN REVEALS HER SECRETS TO SUCCESS Lyndsay Christian is a multimedia expert, host, television talent, contributor, and educator based in the greater New York City area. She is a popular co-anchor of the weekly business show BOLD Biz on Bold TV. She has also appeared on NJTV News (PBS), New York’s Verizon Fios1 News, NY1 News, NBC Houston, FOX Tulsa and The Wendy Williams Show.

The journalist is an adjunct professor at the Montclair State University School of Communication & Media, where she teaches writing for various media platforms. Beyond the classroom, she has organized excursions to The New York Times and CNBC newsrooms, and the WBLS/Hot 97 studio, to expose students to the inner workings of media organizations. As the co-founder of The Bougie Bunch Group (BB Group), Lyndsay is also an entrepreneur. BB Group is a collective comprised of four professionals who host networking events for women of color in New York City. She leads media and public relations initiatives, as well as logistics. The Houston native lends her many talents to various community,

corporate, and social engagements as an emcee, moderator, and speaker. She graduated with honors from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, and dual minors in dance and secondary education. She is an active member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Raine: From an early age your love for performing flourished allowing you to confidently deliver in front of large audiences. Can you describe your experiences and how they helped fine-tune your craft? Lyndsay: My mother enrolled me in dance classes at a young age, which I loved, and that love followed me into adulthood. I’ve spent two decades performing on various stages, which developed my confidence and ability to express myself in front of an audience. Those skills were instrumental in my development as a public speaker and television talent. When you’re onair, it’s like performing, because you have to be “on” and deliver to keep viewers engaged. It requires a certain energy and stamina that I had developed over the years as a dancer. Raine: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? Lyndsay: Life’s too short to do work you’re not passionate about. Five years ago, I was working in public relations, while still trying to work my way back to broadcast news. While it was a great learning experience, I wish I had done more freelance work to speed up the process and transition. I’d be leaps and bounds ahead, but of course, it was all part of God’s plan. Raine: How would you describe a creative entrepreneur in your own words? Lyndsay: A creative entrepreneur is one who thinks outside of the box to create a solution that disrupts the norm.

PHOTO CREDITS: Lance Super for EL Photography

Raine: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? Lyndsay: My creative ideas come to me in my sleep, or first thing in the morning after a good night’s rest. The phrase “sleep on it” does ring true. Raine: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? Lyndsay: Patience — Be patient with the process of starting a business, generating revenue, attracting customers, etc. Overnight success is not a thing; entrepreneurship requires a lot of patience. Assertiveness — Be assertive, not aggressive. Be firm and clear as you articulate any information about your company. Grit — Starting a company requires every ounce of grit. You have to be tough to withstand the trials and tribulations of the experience. Raine: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? Lyndsay: Switching jobs. If I don’t feel challenged or if the role isn’t aligned to my goals or interests, I’ll seek other opportunities until I get closer to achieving my goals. Raine: What wellness tips do you swear by? Lyndsay: Prayer! Daily prayer — morning, noon, and night. Raine: What do you want to be when you grow up? Has this stayed the same or changed throughout

the years? Lyndsay: My ultimate goal, which I work toward daily, is to become a successful nationally known television / on-air personality. I’ve worked at many media outlets over the past few years, and each opportunity has taught me various skills. Raine: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? Lyndsay: When I was a reporter at KOKI (Fox 23) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I worked alongside Mia Fleming, the weekend anchor. Mia, who’s also my sorority sister, immediately assumed the role of big sister and mentor. She was such a blessing during my year and a half there. I didn’t know a soul when I moved there, and she helped me to navigate the city, people and newsroom — helping me become a better reporter, writer, and storyteller. She was so supportive, too, in my leap of faith to New York City. Raine: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? Lyndsay: Intern. I advise the college students I teach to seek out and take advantage of internships in their field of interest. It helps to gain practical, hands-on experience. One can learn quickly if one likes a field/job, or not. It’s such a time saver in the long run. Practice. Record yourself speaking, interviewing, and presenting on-camera. Watch the playback and critique yourself. We are our worst critics. Learn how to do everything. Learn how to edit, shoot, write, report, and produce. It will make you more marketable. Raine: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns, and obstacles of your career? Lyndsay: I’ll allow myself a moment to cry, and then realize that time is of the essence and I can’t waste it on pity parties. Setbacks and rejection will come, but “yeses” will, too. Focus on the “yeses.” It helps, too, to have a supportive village of family and friends cheering me on. They encourage me and that helps me stay motivated. Raine: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? Lyndsay: Don’t dwell on failures. Instead, celebrate small victories along your journey. It’s all about mindset and perspective. Raine: Describe yourself in five words or less. Lyndsay: My middle name is Joy. Raine: You’re known in your industry as a multihyphenate: multimedia talent, speaker, host and educator with an unprecedented talent for successfully executing all roles.

certain power and level of control that excites me. Raine: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets, or software? Lyndsay: The teleprompter app has proven to be a game-changer for me. I downloaded it to my iPad and use it to practice reading scripts at home. Even better, I use it for speaking engagements. People are so impressed when they see that I’ve created my own setup in various settings. It looks more professional than a printed speech or note cards. Raine: What tech do you use to increase your productivity? Name up to 3 Lyndsay: iPhone — I save money by editing my own video reels using iMovie. And, I enjoy doing it, too, as I have complete creative control. iPad - This syncs to my iPhone. It’s a lifesaver. Raine: How does being an independent brand or artist allow you to have more creative freedom? Lyndsay: No boundaries or rules. I can dance to the beat of my own drums. Raine: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? Lyndsay: My signature look is a chic dress — whether flowy or fitted. I love wearing fitted or bodycon dresses to accentuate my curves. And, I also like wearing flowly dresses for comfort (and no Spanx required). Raine: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? Lyndsay: Absolutely. If I look good, I feel good, and am therefore more confident to perform, deliver, execute and pitch. Raine: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? Lyndsay: Michelle Obama’s effortless style is so sophisticated, yet trendy. The network news anchor look/style is also my source of inspiration. It’s important to dress how you want to be addressed. Raine: What are your thoughts about crypto currency? Lyndsay: It’s digital money that I still don’t understand. If I can’t use it to shop for dresses, then…. you get my point. Raine: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? Lyndsay: New York City is a great place for both. It requires a significant grind, but offers so many opportunities for fun and play.

Raine: What drew you to your passions? Lyndsay: My combined love for engaging audiences and teaching ultimately attracted me to the work I do now. I’m able to not only teach up-and-coming journalists about broadcast journalism, but through my on-air work am able to educate audiences about current events, entertainment, business and global news. Raine: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? Lyndsay: My superpower is hosting/emceeing and it’s activated when given a microphone. It’s such a fulfilling experience when I can facilitate the flow of an event and set the tone for its ultimate outcome. There’s a R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

JAAFAR,

MUSICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GAMECHANGING EMERGING ARTIST

Photo credit is Abdullah Sharw.

THE TENACITY OF

Jaafar is a Jordanian singer and songwriter. He exploded on to the Jordanian music scene in 2013 with his song “You Got Me Good,” which was released accidentally after falling into the hands of a local radio programmer. The song went on to become one of Jordon’s most successful tracks of the summer that year. At the time, Jaafar was living in Miami, where he had moved to pursue a career in music and attend the University of Miami. In the summer of 2014, he headlined the North Theatre at Jordan’s most famous music festival — Jerash Festival. Jaafar played to a packed house at the 2000-person capacity theatre. The next day, The Jordan Times released an article titled “Jaafar wows Jerash Audience” which highlighted the singer’s performance chops and boxoffice draw, despite only having one “mega-hit song” under his belt.

Directly after performing at the Jerash Festival, Jaafar returned to the US and began working on new music with a Grammy-winning production team, whose credits include international superstars Shakira, Ricky Martin, and Christina Aguilera. In 2015, Jaafar released his first US single “Sixteen” that went on to perform impressively for an unsigned act, especially in the US market, where it achieved widespread radio airplay and began to climb the Billboard charts as well as other US national radio charts. It was then that Jaafar started to catch the attention of mainstream Western media, being featured in publications such as People and The Huffington Post, both of which praised his music and message. Jaafar then released a second international single called “Dalia” in which he sang in both English and his native Arabic. The song was Jaafar’s first foray into singing in Arabic. With the success of “Sixteen” and “Dalia,” Jaafar’s stateside audience began to grow notably. After years of cultivating a grass-roots fan base by playing smaller venues in America, Jaafar embarked on a string of tour dates in the US, which included headlining shows at The Fonda Theatre and The Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles. The release of “Dalia” also sparked increasing demand for Jaafar’s music in the Middle East and North Africa. As a result, Jaafar took his live show back to the Middle East where he opened for various Arab Pop heavyweights, such as Amr Diab and Khaled. After releasing some more singles in Arabic, including “Salma,” “Yara,” and “Gheir Ay Leila,” which all received heavy radio airplay and press attention around the Middle East and North Africa, Jaafar began work on new music with famed Lebanese producer Hadii Sharara (French Montana, Wael Kfoury, Nancy Ajram). In March of 2019, it was announced that Jaafar had signed a five-year deal with Universal Music MENA. Jaafar’s first major label release, a single called “Ra7at 3aleki” was written by Jaafar and produced by Hadii Sharara. His first EP is expected to come out this summer. Raine: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? Jaafar: Don’t care so much about the critics. Raine: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? Jaafar: I think everyone is different. For me, I get the most creative when I’m alone and there’s no one to please but myself. I think having opinions around you is often very good, but not when you’re first birthing an idea. I like to go through that process alone. Raine: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? Jaafar: Yes, I have. I think it’s just about taking a breather, however short or long, and reminding yourself why you started out doing what you do. The moment I don’t have the same excitement I had all those years ago is probably the moment sheer exhaustion will win. Raine: What wellness tips do you swear by? Jaafar: Don’t let the business compromise your morals. I think being well means being at peace with yourself. Pray, or do whatever it is that keeps you R A I N E M AG A Z I N E - VO L U M E 3 4

clearheaded and reminds you of who you are and what you stand for. Raine: What is your best advice in battling boredom in creative pursuits or creative entrepreneurship? Jaafar: I think if you’re getting bored a lot, that’s a big problem and it will be reflected in your work. What’s the reason you’re so bored? Perhaps what you’re doing isn’t challenging you enough. Raine: What major project coming up are you most excited about? Jaafar: I just directed my first music video. I’m super excited about that coming out! I love film and would love to be more involved, along with my music. Raine: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? Jaafar: My advice is to take everyone’s advice with a grain of salt. Listen to yourself and try not to compromise your vision. Surround yourself with people who are stronger than you in areas you feel that you lack in, and learn from them. Raine: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns, and obstacles of your career? Jaafar: When a door is shut in your face you have to find a window to jump through. Don’t give up is my advice. But, if you have to have people consistently telling you to give up, you’re probably not cut out for what you’re doing. Your strength has to come from believing in yourself. Raine: Describe yourself in five words or less. Jaafar: Persistent. Raine: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? Jaafar: I would’ve been so specific about putting music out. I’ve recorded so much material that I will probably never release. Raine: Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? Jaafar: It’s a different game than it was even ten years ago. There are no more gatekeepers. That’s good and bad. It gives everyone a fighting chance, but — at the same time — it leaves the door open for people who don’t really deserve the attention. Hype culture is dangerous for the music industry. Raine: Who have been some of your fashion role models that have inspired your current style? Jaafar: Keith Richards, William Gilchrist, and Elvis Presley. Raine: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? Jaafar: Miami! That’s where I started my career. There’s so much fun to be had and the music scene is worldly.

RAINEMAKER

Up Close and Personal with Music Sensation

Sean Kingston

WHETHER IT’S “BEAUTIFUL GIRLS,” “EENIE MEENIE” OR “FIRE BURNING,” WE ALL HAVE A FAVORITE SEAN KINGSTON TUNE THAT JUST MAKES OUR BODIES TWIST. SEAN KINGSTON, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS KISEAN PAUL ANDERSON, IS A WELL-KNOWN JAMAICAN-AMERICAN SINGER. IN THIS ISSUE, WE ARE TAKING YOU UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH SEAN TO GET INTO THE MIND AND LIFE OF THE RENOWNED HIT MAKER. FROM AN EARLY AGE HIS LOVE FOR MUSIC FLOURISHED, ALLOWING HIM TO INSPIRE PEOPLE, AND TO BE A VOICE OF THE YOUTH AS HE TOOK CARE OF HIS FAMILY AND BEGAN MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE. LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: RAINE MAGAZINE PRESENTS: THE SEAN KINGSTON INTERVIEW

Photo Credits: Imani Blackman

RAINE: Can you describe some

of your early experiences and how they fine-tuned your craft? KINGSTON: I started [dabbling in] music at 8-years-old—rapping in the bathroom and just playing around. I didn’t take it very seriously until my sister overheard me and told me that I could do this music thing for real. [When I was] around 10-years-old, I used to go and chop it up at the Barber Shop by singing; the older folks started to respond positively, as if they wanted more. They made comments like, “You’re really good at this.” This led to my older sister bringing me to perform at local talent shows, where I would always come in 2nd or 3rd place. When I was 12-years-old, I won 1st place [after breaking] a tie, [as a result] my mom invested in me and allowed me to go to a recording studio. Once I was there, I never wanted to leave. No, seriously! I knew from that moment on that all I wanted to do was music. So, I began to put in the work and pursue recording in the studio daily. It was a truly great day when I got a record deal off of MySpace. With a hundred dollars to my name, I was able to work my finesse by finding someone to fly me to Los Angeles. When I arrived, I was beyond excited! All I was thinking was, I cannot leave. I cannot leave! There was no way I was going back to Miami without a record deal. I was 16-years-old

and wanted to show how hungry I was. I was feeding off the energy from the feelings [stemming from] my mom being away. Many don’t know this, but she was in prison for 5 years. I was her youngest child, and there was a lot of pressure building up on my siblings’ shoulders, when they thought about the fact that they were forced to become parents overnight. To me, it was time to bring my career into full drive by going out and making a real impact. RAINE: Knowing what you know

now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? KINGSTON: To have more patience and to be cautious— [not] rush into anything. I realized that having the right people around me was key. You have to protect your energy. It’s not all about what you give [to others]; it’s [also] about what [you keep] within. Be aware; many people around you could have an agenda that is not in your favor. How would you describe a creative entrepreneur in your own words? KINGSTON: Someone who is the boss—the CEO. Entrepreneurs are very artsy.They are always thinking about their next invention, [often] while they are working on their current one. Thoughts about how to be better RAINE:

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everyday flood their minds, along with how to best help and impact the people around them. I most definitely consider myself a creative entrepreneur. I even have the pleasure of saying that I’ve discovered some true talent with my own label. That’s rare! I’ve signed artists, too. I am currently finding artists right off of YouTube and walking them into stations [where they] begin to write on the spot, with no time being wasted. I only think about the artist, and although I do wear many hats, I make sure not to focus on roles and think of the label as a whole. RAINE: If you had to relate what

you do to sports, how would you describe how you have followed, changed, or distributed to the game? KINGSTON: I would relate my music journey to boxing. You are going to have stuff come in your way. You’ll also have opponents that are going to throw punches, so sometimes you’ll have to bob and weave through the game. So, if and when something connects, you’ll simply learn from your mistakes, take notes, and keep pushing. RAINE: If someone asked you

how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? KINGSTON: Our brains don’t stop. So, if you have a quiet place in your house, go there. Light 81

some candles, relax, and start praying; start talking to the Lord and see what happens after that. RAINE: What three traits do you feel are most

needed to pursue entrepreneurship? KINGSTON:

1. Work ethic. 2. Stay ahead of the game. 3. Anticipate the next move. You have to be a student of the game. You’ve got to want to get into it—to get behind the scenes. When I entered the game, I wasn’t blessed with what I thought was the best deal, but I learned many things as I moved forward about how to handle things. Knowledge is a huge component of this game. RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout

in your career? If so, how did you overcome it? KINGSTON: For me, this boils down to keeping God first in everything! I pray every day. Most of the time I am praying in my mind; I talk to Him in public; I praise Him; I love to let Him know how much He has done for me. RAINE: What wellness tips do you swear by? KINGSTON:

Peanut Punch. It’s good for stamina and energy Prayer. It is my biggest medicine. Magnum Stout.This will give you that boost of energy. I recommend a lot of walking. I used to walk from place to place all the time. And when I’m on a treadmill, I’m always on an incline. RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. KINGSTON:

Creative (An) Entrepreneur Persistent Immaculate Diverse

RAINE: What is the biggest problem that Creatives

face today and how would you solve this problem? KINGSTON: Many people in the music world aren’t spending much time on their music anymore. Some of the guys are only spending 15-20 minutes on a track. Speaking as someone who needs quality, I spend about 2 hours on a single track. Sometimes, I get writers block—and to my writers reading this—that’s okay. Take your time with it. Figure out what the melody is and different methods

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of mixing and matching the melodies and the concepts.The concepts have to be universal so that the people can relate —to keep it real. RAINE: What inspired you when it came to the “Made in Jamaica” title? KINGSTON: Well, I have a place in Kingston, Jamaica. I wanted to tap

into that city, Ocho Rios, and where I come from. I understand my roots and am proud of them as well as the overall culture of Jamaica. Jamaica will always give me that peace of mind vibe. RAINE: What are you most excited about regarding your come back? KINGSTON: To go on tour again, and to see all my fans’ faces again. I

really want to start building right from where I left off! My mother and sister, along with consistent prayer, are helping me get through these last few years.

RAINE: What artists would you love to work with? KINGSTON: I would love to work with Kanye West, Jay-Z and Pharrell

Williams. I can just imagine Pharrell and I making some crazy music together. He is a producer that is very wise and has a high level of artistry that I certainly respect. RAINE: What words of wisdom can you share with rising music

entrepreneurs?

KINGSTON: Be original. Stay hungry. Keep God first. Jump out there

and leave fear at the door. Stay in your lane. Do not try to be like anyone else. Make yourself stand out. Never give up. But, the best and biggest piece of advice I can give is to have faith. If you don’t believe, that is when you begin to make mistakes. If you don’t believe, your spirit will always be down. You have to not only have faith, but also keep the faith. If you fall, be ready to bounce right back up.

“I knew that if I failed I wouldn’t regret that, but I knew the one thing I might regret is not trying.” -Jeff Bezos

TECHNOLOGY

THE FUTURE OF VOICE TECH AND AI

KEN SUTTON IS THE COFOUNDER, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, BASED YOBE INC. THE INNOVATE SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS COMPANY USES ON THE EDGE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO CREATE COGNITIVE SOFTWARE THAT MIMICS THE ABILITY HUMANS HAVE TO IDENTIFY, EXTRACT, AND TRACK A VOICE OF INTEREST IN HIGH NOISE AND MULTISPEAKER ENVIRONMENTS. Yobe uses an Abductive Reasoning Module to analyze a dynamic auditory scene to pay attention and track voices of interest. This type of advancement in technology enables the use of Human-Factors Engineering models to accurately separate voices from background and near-field noise, in essence, allowing the software to lock in and identify an individual’s voice DNA. For example, low-power wake-words (i.e.: Alexa, Siri, Ok Google) validate authorized users, retrieve their user profiles, and pre-load their device and application settings by using voice biometrics as their secure password. This unique approach to Artificial intelligence

has gotten the company recognized as an innovative thought leader in the rapidly growing AI and Voice Interface space. The team has regularly been cited in tech magazines, like TechCrunch, Speech Technology, VentureBeat, and Fast Company—to name a few. Ken is a serial entrepreneur with nearly 20 years of strategy and corporate business management experience in the technology, marketing, and finance industries. In addition to his role as the lead technology evangelist, Ken manages the company’s product vision, corporate development, team building, brand management, and investor relationships. Prior to Yobe, Ken was a financial services professional. He worked on critical projects for hedge funds, venture capital and private equity firms focused on Pre-IPO investments in the technology and real estate arenas. Ken’s formal entrepreneurial experience started directly after university with the creation of the Tampa Marketing Group (TMG). TMG was a multi-state marketing firm, focused on product development, market research, and brand strategy. Other start-up experience includes: Founding Member of Co-Mune Inc (a community focused connectivity and mobile commerce platform), and Managing Partner Sutton Willis and More (a boutique strategy and capital advisory firm). Ken—a Hartford, Connecticut, native— attended the University of Connecticut and has served as a proud member of the US Armed Forces (US Army Ranger). Raine: From an early age your love for business flourished allowing you to quickly identify potential business opportunities. Can you describe your experiences and how they helped fine-tune your craft? Ken: I can remember the catalyst for my

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entrepreneurial journey. One winter weekend—I believe I was ten—there was a snowstorm when I was visiting my aunt and uncle’s house across town. My three cousins and I were snowbound, with no groceries in the house, and no money to buy them. My Cousin David said: “Let’s go make some money, and on the way back we can swing by Shorty’s (the name of the bodega up the street) and get something for everyone to eat.” Go make some money, at this point in life, was a foreign concept; I thought you went to a job where you were paid every other week, so the idea of walking out the house with no job and coming back with money that same day made no sense to my ten-year-old brain. However, you go when my big cousin says, “Lets go!” So, my cousin armed with a shovel, and I with an unpolished sales pitch (my job was to ring the doorbell and talk to the people), went door to door offering our driveway clearing services. Most of the people could have done the work themselves, but I think they were just happy to see us out in the elements hustling. Ha! I remember thinking: This would be better if I had more people with shovels. We ended up shoveling enough driveways to buy a few bags of groceries, with money to spare. The experience was empowering for me, and from that point on I was hooked; creating something that could generate revenue where there was none, was very exciting for me. Raine: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? Ken: I would say grit, humility, and the ability to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Grit, because entrepreneurship is a contact sport. At times you will need to get grimy and fight to keep your dream afloat. I can proudly say that the entrepreneurship lifestyle is not for everyone, you need to be built a certain way; humility is key, because at some point in your

creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? Ken: In the fist year (or so) of building my latest start-up Yobe, which was in a different industry than my previous businesses, I would have plunged myself into the startup/entrepreneur community much faster than I initially did. I have found that every market and every industry have common best practices, and that the faster you connect with others in similar positions, the faster you are exposed to those best practices that in turn allow you to create your own. Raine: What has been the most valuable tool in your arsenal of apps, gadgets or software? Ken: I’ll need to answer that from a technical standpoint and from a business/ customer development one. As an algorithm-focused software company, MatLab has been an invaluable software tool for us to create and benchmark the behaviors we are looking for from our Artificial Intelligence powered software. We use it as the platform for most of our new product development. On the business side, I feel that if you are not incorporating LinkedIn into your GTM and CRM strategy, you are not as effective as you could be.

journey you will need help, and it helps being humble enough to recognize when you do. Comfortable being uncomfortable, since you will be required to operate outside of your personal comfort zone many times, and as an entrepreneur you need to get accustomed to pushing your personal boundaries. It’s just a part of the job description. Raine: What wellness tips do you swear by? Ken: Well, in addition to eating breakfast for dinner and dinner for breakfast—I like to eat my largest meal of the day in the AM and my smallest at night—I try to get in two workouts a day; these can be a combination of biking, running, swimming, strength training, or yoga. For me, the physicality of a good workout during the week is a great equalizer for the mental demands of the role. Raine: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? Ken: Wow! Great question. I’ve been fortunate to work with some outstanding people, from Lieutenant Colonels while in the military to my business partners over the years. And, although I never worked alongside him, there was one person that made a lasting impression on the way I viewed business; he was the owner of a threechair barbershop in the neighborhood I grew up in. His consistent habits of diligently sweeping the floor after every third cut, straightening the magazines when they were not uniform, and forbidding any language that was unacceptable showed me that no matter how small the business, having high standards is important. Mr. Noland ran that shop with the pride, dedication, and efficiency of a CEO running a billion-dolor enterprise. He set a great example. Raine: What is your viewpoint of failure and how best to deal with it? Ken: I have found that failure is a common denominator among great athletes, scientists, politicians, entertainers, and entrepreneurs. So many successful people have failed at some point that I have come to view failure as an absolutely necessary component of success. Not only does it give you a clear understanding of the depth of your conviction, it also offers many personal growth opportunities that immediate success doesn’t allow you to explore. If you can learn to embrace your failures and view them as a tax you have to pay, they will bear fruit if you persevere. Raine: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? Ken: There are two that I would claim. First is the ability to connect the dots. I have the ability to focus on key pieces of data from seemingly unrelated information and understand how they relate to each other. My current company was created as a direct result of this ability; over the years, as my roles have become more and more strategic, it has become immensely important. Second is the ability to stay focused in chaotic situations, and not get distracted or discouraged by roadblocks or false evidence that at first appears real (aka FEAR). This skill has many business implications, specifically when working to accomplish a goal or while building a business in a new market or industry. Raine: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a

Raine: In regards to your unique selling advantage, explain how you made the choice to break the mold? Ken: Yobe has taken an interesting approach to the Voice Interface process by introducing intelligence (thinking) very early on. Not only can we track your voice in any sound environment—like crowd noise, loud music, far-field situations, etc.—we also know it’s you speaking, so we can use your voice as your password for user profiles and device access permissions. We made the strategic decision to be a platform enabler versus creating multiple voice devices. By adding our version of AI to voice platforms we are similar to the autonomous car industry that added intelligence to the automatable. Similar to the self-driving car industry we see intelligent voice solutions disrupting the Voice Interface market, specifically with the impact of 5G connectivity across the IoT, healthcare, robotics, mobile phone, and autonomous vehicle space. Raine: What is your favorite city for work and play and why? Ken: That’s easy. My favorite city for work is here in Boston. For our type of software development, our HQ could not be in a better environment to attract the best and brightest talent from our local university system (BU, MIT, Harvard, etc.). Also, Boston has become the technology hub of the east coast; the ecosystem here for tech companies is fantastic. For play, it’s hard to pick one, as each city has its own flavor. So, let’s say for the summer months, Montreal; its ethnic diversity, great food, music festivals, natural landscape, and cultural depth get top marks in my book.

DENISE HOLZER TALKS CRUNCHET, THE REVOLUTIONARY APP FOR THE GROWING CROSSOVER IN DIGITAL CULTURE AND MOBILE GAMING

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RAINE: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? DENISE: 1) Everyone in your company contributes to its success—from the CEO & CTO to the high school and college ambassadors. Listen to everyone’s input. Ask as many questions to as many different groups as you can, while building and testing your product. 2) The audience you think you’re targeting may not be the audience who ultimately adapts best to the product and sees your value prop first. It wasn’t until we launched our Ambassador Program on High School and College Campuses that we realized Crunchet solved a major problem for Gamers and esports fans who didn’t have a way to share their social media “meta” in one cohesive space. Crunchet makes it simple for groups of friends, influencers, and fans to share their favorite content together into group-posts, agnostic of social platform—including favorite Twitch clips & streams,

Tweets, YouTube videos as well as other social posts and non-gaming content, like adding a favorite playlist. 3) Learn to adapt with your product—embrace the pivots and changes. We originally launched Crunchet as a utility for group-posting around shared experiences; we started in social impact, working alongside the New York Women’s March Alliance and the student organizers of March for Our Lives—where attendees across the globe added photos and videos from the event, YouTube videos about the cause, Tweets, articles, and petitions. Once we witnessed the power of singer/ songwriter/activist Halsey’s voice coupled with actor Veronica Dunne’s group-posts, with Gen Z attendees bringing awareness to women’s rights issues, we realized Crunchet is inherently also a fan engagement tool. 4) In retrospect, every new idea seems simple. I would have liked to realize 5 years ago that just because you believe strongly in social impact, it doesn’t mean you also don’t collect sneakers, love watching esports, baseball, and have your favorite YouTube shows or Spotify playlists. Why not be able to share all those interests together with your friends and favorite influencers, and go beyond your community? That is the problem Crunchet ultimately solved; we evolved into the first crossover app for esports, sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and social impact.

RAINE: If you had to relate what you do to sports, how would you describe how you have followed, changed, or distributed the game? DENISE: I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Rick Fox, the esports visionary from Echo Fox and former Los Angeles Lakers champion. He pointed out that training for the NBA is no different than training for esports; crossover training for esports athletes parallels professional athletes where mental and physical strength are crucial for the individual gamer and the team. Meeting Rick influenced me to relate tech entrepreneurship to sports and esports because you do use the very same skills to build a successful team; you have to be incredibly disciplined, committed, and well-balanced in both mind and body to be able to inspire teammates to build a winning culture. Additionally, Rick’s recent public stance on racial equality and injustice showed me how incredibly crucial it is to be competitive while playing fair—to not only exhibit leadership but to stand up for what is right and wrong, even when it doesn’t necessarily serve your interests, but remains true to your values.

Photo credits: Sebastian Piras

Denise Holzer is a Co-founder of Crunchet, a new app positioned to be the leading global mobile gaming community in the growing crossover between esports, sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and social impact. Denise is a native New Yorker, activist, entrepreneur, and investment banker.

RAINE: Have you ever faced the issue of burnout in your career? How did you overcome it? DENISE: We all experience burnout, it’s inevitable when we work hard and life throws us unexpected punches. I’ve always found a way to regenerate quickly— by eating healthy, practicing yoga, and using meditation to center myself. I think it’s imperative to find balance, calmness, serenity, etc. It’s also critical on the flipside to engage with friends and to be social. For Gamers, burnout is a big issue. Esports is a highly cognitive sport so exercise, sleep, nutrition, and hydration are just as critical as social interaction and mental health. We’re excited to give professional, amateur, and recreational gamers a platform where they can be social, showcase their unique personalities by incorporating content from different media platforms, and group-post their shared interests within mobile gaming, social impact, and beyond their community.

RAINE: Describe yourself in five words or less. DENISE: Creative, intuitive, optimistic, articulate & grounded. RAINE: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? DENISE: Start-ups are emotional, long, personal journeys where uncertainty and personality issues face you head-on daily. By taking control of your emotions and focusing on the facts in front of you, you’ll help balance out your purpose. It’s always good to have as many mentors and board members who have lived to tell their incredible stories, provide guidance, and support. RAINE: What tech do you use to increase your productivity? Name up to 3 DENISE: SLACK, TRELLO, JIRA

RAINE: What major project coming up are you most excited about? DENISE: We are currently planning an exciting event during next year’s NBA All-Star Weekend to be held in Chicago. NBA All-Star Weekend is an ideal activation for Crunchet because it parallels our mission to be the leading mobile platform for the growing crossover in esports, sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and social impact. Today’s global sports fans are interested in the game itself as well the growing cultural crossover encompassing all of these interests together. We are looking forward to showcase Crunchet, and offer athletes and influencers from different fields of interest a place to group-post with their fans.

RAINE: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? DENISE: Yes! We are so excited to be exploring a partnership with a female Twitch Streamer, YouTube personality, gamer, and a major cruelty-free & paraben-free cosmetic line. The Twitch streamer will offer beauty tips and group-post with fans to introduce female non-gamers to the world of mobile gaming and esports. This will include her best Twitch clips, YouTube videos, links to beauty products, her favorite Spotify and SoundCloud playlists, along with any of her other social media posts. As a female co-founder, it’s important to me that Crunchet takes the lead showcasing female gamers; it’s exciting that we can introduce women who are not necessarily aware of esports to it through our social crossover app in esports, sports, entertainment, lifestyle & social impact.

RAINE: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? DENISE: To find someone that can mentor you, answer pertinent questions, and surround yourself with positive people that inspire you. Realize that we are all connected and can do something great together through collaboration. Don’t be afraid of failure, one door closes and another one will open. Never limit yourself. If you realize something is not working, be willing to iterate the idea or product. If you really believe in your vision, you will have to move mountains—so be prepared to do that.

RAINE: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? DENISE: I dress eclectic but classic; I don’t necessarily follow a trend. I do love fashion and keep up with current styles. I have always been into innovation and vintage designers, but I don’t follow one particular look.

RAINE: How have you overcome the setbacks, letdowns and obstacles of your career? DENISE: I’ve worked in a male dominated industry for many years, banking and now tech. I learned that I was just as capable as the men around me; I was confident in my thoughts and abilities to succeed and continue to be now; and I don’t let someone tell me that I can’t do something. Do your homework, research, ask for opinions, listen to constructive criticism, and then ultimately answer the question yourself.

RAINE: What is the biggest problem that creatives face today and how would you solve it? DENISE: Creating solutions for today’s global problems are complex and often done in a vacuum. Social impact, innovation, and creativity are best achieved from shared experiences.There really is no place for you to seamlessly group-post stories together with friends and your favorite influencers, where shared experiences turn into innovative ideas and can even make the world a better place. It is extremely powerful when each of us collectively engages in group storytelling to share and create ideas together from mixed content from our favorite platforms. Crunchet is the next step in the evolution of social media—our product addresses a major market opportunity and solves a problem for creatives.

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C R Y P T O C U R R E N C Y, C O M M U N I C A T I O N , A N D C O L L A B O R AT I O N : H O W B L O C K C H A I N I S EMPOWERING PEOPLE & BUSINESSES

Linda Goetze’s roots can be traced back to John Cooke, one of the youngest Pilgrims to reach Plymouth on the Mayflower in 1620. The love of exploration and being on the bleeding edge is in her genes, as is resilience in the face of hardship. As missionaries to Ghana and the jungles of Peru, her parents raised six children on a shoestring. “It wasn’t really out of necessity, but, yes, I have eaten bugs on purpose; they’re a great source of protein, incidentally!” shares Goetze. When she was four, her parents moved the family to the pecan and peach orchards of Georgia. After graduating at age 16, she started her own explorations—from the cold provinces of Canada, to different states across America; first Alaska, then Massachusetts followed by Ohio. Although she eventually found herself back in Georgia, she first took a number of fun side trips around the world. “Even though I travelled a lot, I did manage to find my perfect match and married an amazing man and golfer—Nicky Goetze,” she

explains. “I went to graduate school, and soon after that diploma was in hand, became the mother of two beautiful twin babies. Serendipitously, the Bitcoin white paper was being released around the same time.” Goetze firmly believes that “we are ALL connected.” Blockchain is the technological vehicle for the expression of this idea, allowing its practical application to be more obviously seen and understood. She’s been closely watching the emerging trends around blockchain technology since 2012; it’s been an amazing journey encompassing many highs and lows. When she began to participate in the Blockchain ecosystem, she had the pleasure of connecting with Abraham Xiong, an ideator, and the current Chairman of the Board of the Blockchain Chamber of Commerce. Her journey with the Chamber, from Founding Member, to CIO, to President and then to CEO, has been a fascinating time of personal growth, as well as a time of consolidation and growth for the entire ecosystem.

She has personally invested in over 30 blockchain/cryptocurrency projects and feels that she’s only scratching the surface of opportunity and growth. She’s advised and helped ideate a number of blockchain projects and is most proud of her involvement in the organization and building out the BlockchainECOsystem.io platform, which officially launched on World Social Media Day! Raine: From an early age your love for teaching and creating connectivity flourished allowing you to effectively engage others around innovation and exploration. Linda: I remember telling ongoing stories to my classmates in the second grade; every time the teacher left the room, or we had a short break, I added a new installment. “What happens next?” was a question I loved answering — even if it did get me in trouble a time or two! This childhood experience has been somewhat replicated in my efforts to bring the Blockchain Ecosystem together. Using all of the available pieces and ideating something new

Image provided by Blockchain Chamber of Commerce"

to benefit the community still brings me joy! And the uncertainty in the blockchain space is just part of the adventure! Raine: Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago? Linda: If I had known that Bitcoin would top $20,000 a coin in five short years, I would have told myself to work harder to convince my family and friends to get their own Bitcoins! Raine: How would you describe a creative entrepreneur in your own words? Linda: A creative entrepreneur is someone who sees an opportunity, uses existing resources and information, and puts them together in a brave new way. Sometimes it can get messy! Raine: If someone asked you how they could stimulate their creativity, what advice would you give? Linda: To stimulate your creativity, you have to let go of expectations, your own and other people’s! Raine: What three traits do you feel are most needed to pursue entrepreneurship? Linda: In order to be an entrepreneur, you

need to be someone who identifies problems and creates solutions. You have to have a mind that is able to pivot, not panic; and you have to understand that the customers you serve have their own mindsets—getting out of your head and understanding other people’s perspectives is vital if you are providing a service or creating a product for them.

Raine: What is your best advice for battling boredom in creative pursuits or creative entrepreneurship? Linda: “I am bored!” said no true entrepreneur, ever! There is always another opportunity just waiting to be explored and another trophy buried in the mud! (Did I mention mud volleyball can be fun?!)

Raine: Name your top three hacks for battling the loneliness of entrepreneurship. Linda: They say it’s lonely at the top, but I figure if you are open and willing to connect with every positive person in your space regardless of their role, you won’t be lonely.

Raine: What major project coming up are you most excited about? Linda: The launch of the BlockchainECOsystem. io, [a social media and rewards] platform, is something I am super excited about! The ECO will provide an interactive, knowledge-sharing, and promotional platform to showcase leading blockchain professionals and thought leaders from around the globe as well as the Blockchain Chamber of Commerce’s affiliated chapters worldwide.

Raine: What wellness tips do you swear by? Linda: There is nothing more vital when it comes to wellness than drinking quality water! I drink electrolyzed-reduced water with a 9.5-pH level on a daily basis. There’s a video you can Google using my name and “water” that will explain why. I also flex my abs when I brush my teeth. I’ve been doing it since college and the six-pack—which I don’t deserve, based on my current workout schedule— is somehow still there for me.

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Raine: Who have been the most memorable people you have worked alongside and why? Linda: One of the most memorable people I have worked alongside of was my father Bruce, who taught me the intricacies of record researching at a young age. He instilled a strong work ethic, a love

for reading, and an understanding of what a daily relationship with God can look like, all of which have served me well. There are many other memorable people; the volunteers that I have worked with over the years in many capacities have been my heroes. Raine: Word to the wise: What advice would you lend to a budding talent on the rise in your chosen field? Linda: In Blockchain, my best advice would be to find a business use case that has a solid ROI when processes are implemented using Blockchain. Line up people willing to invest in that solution and then work with them to turn the tech into a positive business outcome for all. There are so many opportunities to pivot, regroup, collaborate, and re-tool that failure shouldn’t be an option. Raine: Describe yourself in five words or less. Linda: I’m an educator and connector. Raine: You’re known in your industry as an innovative leader with an unprecedented talent as a collaborative connector. What drew you to your passion? Linda: I saw a need in the industry for education, collaboration, and connectivity. In building the infrastructure of the Blockchain ECOsystem with the team at the Blockchain Chamber of Commerce I was just taking the next natural step to help meet that need. Raine: We love transformation. If you experienced a personal or professional evolution, what was the inspiration behind it how have people reacted? Linda: I have always loved nature and cutting edge technology, and have enjoyed teaching about both. I had an interesting realization; now, there is cutting-edge technology that can help preserve nature in ways we are just beginning to understand. Blockchain For Impact is something I am passionate about, and seeing how it can be used to help deliver long-term, economically sustainable solutions is part of what I enjoy most.

Raine: What are your superpowers? How have they helped you excel? Linda: My superpower is being able to change the atmosphere around me by making choices. Self-awareness and self-actualization allow me to navigate away from low energy situations and empower myself, and the teams I work with. This tends to produce positive results! Raine: If there was one thing you could have changed during your journey as a creative entrepreneur, what would it be and why? Linda: I would have started valuing my time more, a lot sooner. When someone gives his or her time and energy freely, it is often taken advantage of and devalued even though it is a priceless gift. My time is precious and needs to be treated as such, and that includes time I spend on international calls with high profile government or business connections, or time on the Chattahoochee River with my 10-year-old twins. Raine:Talk about how technology has changed your industry for newcomers? Linda: Just about everyone is a “newcomer” when it comes to Blockchain and we are working toward getting it demystified by giving people opportunities to get hands-on with it. The best Blockchain implementation is one that provides services faster, cheaper, and better—without the need for anyone to know they are using it. Raine: What tech do you use to increase your productivity? Linda: If you check out the BlockchainECOsystem.io and the BlockchainChamber.org you will have access to people and products that will, quite possibly, change the way you do business for the better! Raine: How does being an independent brand or artist allow you to have more creative freedom? Linda: The Blockchain Chamber of Commerce has remained independent in order to better serve the community without “strings attached.” Grassroots contributors that can include individuals from any size of business inform our

perspectives and actions as an organization. Being committed to connecting the community and representing it honestly is paramount!

and yoga-pants. I only dress in suits and fitted dresses under social duress or because I feel inspired by the occasion.

Raine: Are there any plans to partner with a major celebrity, brand, or organization in the future? If so, who is on your HOT list? Linda: Our current public collaborations are with Bitpay (the oldest and most trustworthy payment processor in the industry) and Stellar for our reward token. That said, every company that is using blockchain or providing blockchain support and services is on my HOT list.

Raine: Do your fashion choices affect your success in meetings or pitches? Linda: My brain doesn’t work any differently based on what I’m wearing, but I do realize that certain businesses have dress codes, or certain expectations that I seek to match if I am participating in a meeting with them.

Raine: In regards to your unique selling advantage, explain how you made the choice to break the mold? Linda: We very intentionally chose to forgo the lobbying route used by other organizations and stay grassroots as a for-benefit organization. Our goal is to serve the community and provide infrastructure that raises awareness, facilitates adoption, and inspires advocacy. We are working to provide a level playing field for everyone on the BlockchainECOsystem.io platform. Raine: We love your viewpoint on parity for women in the workplace. What makes you most passionate about this? Linda: Currently, we are seeing women not being paid to speak at Blockchain events, where thousands of tickets are being sold for thousands of dollars. Because many women are natural educators and communicators, we tend to appreciate opportunities that allow us to do those things while providing huge value. I believe that events that are held for profit (rather than strictly for the education of the community where all proceeds go into the location, food, media management, etc.) should compensate both male and female speakers at rates that validate their value-add to the event.

LINDA GOETZ HEADSHOT PHOTO: Photos by Haigwood Studios ABRAHAM XIONG HEADSHOT PHOTO: Photos by Cathy Jordan Photography

Raine: Regarding fashion, what would you describe as your signature “look”? Linda: My signature look would probably be somewhere between “conservative” and “comfortable”—often including a “Bloom In The Dark” shirt

Abraham Xiong

Raine: What is the biggest problem that creatives face today and how would you solve it? Linda: Creatives need cash flow. We are working on a number of projects that will allow creatives to earn in unique ways. Aphidbyte is an interesting project along those lines; it may develop into a part of the solution. Raine: What are your thoughts about crypto currency? Linda: Cryptocurrencies have been a life shifter for me. As a diversification strategy in a well-rounded portfolio, they can actually reduce overall volatility. As an early adopter, I’m more confident today than I was 6 years ago that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that Bitcoin will remain a store of value for the foreseeable future. Raine: What is your favorite city for work and play, and why? Linda: I love Atlanta! (Unfortunately, awful traffic and some lingering socioeconomic and racial issues that should not exist, are still a plague here - as they are in many large cities.) It is the home of some of the most innovative blockchain companies on the planet, like Verady, Ternio and Provide, which will become household names just like Coca-Cola and Delta who also have their headquarters here in Atlanta. Not only is the city one of the greenest and most connected to nature through trails and parks, Atlanta is where some of the friendliest and most collaborative people on the planet live, and I’m proud to call it home!

Linda Goetz

“Everything started as nothing.” – Ben Weissenstein

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