Mission CTRL

Guy A. Fortt joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew in the MissionCTRL Studio to share his adventurous journey into entrepreneurship.  After witnessing a traumatic murder at 18 years old, Fortt made a vow to dedicate his life to serving others. This decision led to a 28-year career as a Firefighter/EMT.  Fortt holds a Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership from the University of Bridgeport and a Master's in Sports Management from Columbia University. You may recognize him from his unique acting style on Broadway in Oprah Winfrey’s The Color Purple or from Law & Order: SVU. Guy's contributions to the entertainment industry have earned him a membership in the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, New York City chapter, where he also serves as a judge for the Emmy Awards.  So, how does a firefighter manage to carve out time to earn an advanced degree, raise four amazing children who are academically sound athletes, cultivate a loving relationship with his wife, launch an acting career, and become a founding investing partner in Eleven86 Real Artesian Water? Before diving into this episode and quenching your curiosity, Ramon and the crew share several networking cheat codes to ensure you’ll get a follow up and other tips for making a positive, memorable impression. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This week on MissionCTRL, Sean Rabinowitz, President of Procyon Partners, joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew in the studio to share his servant leadership journey. Rabinowitz is no stranger to being on air; he started his first broadcasting adventure with "In a Pinch Call Pete Finch." However, broadcasting was not in the cards for Sean.  Rabinowitz grew up in Trumbull, CT, and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Health/Health Care Administration/Management and Insurance. He is passionate about helping organizations attract and retain top talent through benefits products and services. He also specializes in property and casualty insurance and was named a Top Producer by Insurance Business of America. Sean is an active community volunteer who enjoys paying it forward through various organizations. He is a past Chairman of the Board of Directors President for the McGivney Community Center and is a board member for The Jimmy McGrath Foundation. Additionally, he is a Special Olympics Head Coach and serves on the State of Connecticut Special Olympics board and the Fighting Angels Association Board.  When you live a life in service to others, how do you lead when faced with a personal family crisis that challenges your faith? Rabinowitz opens up about a crisis that galvanized his family, faith, and reinvigorated his commitment to serving.  Before diving into Sean’s story, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew share critical email marketing strategies. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Martha Alejandro-Bird (the original “Marty Bird”) joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew on this episode of MissionCTRL to share her journey from the inner-city pitfalls to becoming a Naval Officer. Alejandro-Bird is now an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Martha began following her gut instincts as a student at Bridgeport’s Bassick High School. The "brain in her gut" led her to connect with mentors who were instrumental in changing the trajectory of her life. When her gut prompted her to join the Navy, it wasn’t because she was looking for assistance with college tuition, she was simply driven to serve. Tune in to hear how Martha tapped into the enteric nervous system (ENS), also known as the “brain in your gut” or “second brain,” to pursue a career in Adult-Gerontology. As a recent graduate of the Duke University School of Nursing MSN program, coupled with 30 years of nursing experience, she has developed expert clinical, communication, and critical thinking skills. Her experience ranges from step-down trauma, critical care, and outpatient specialty to military service and supervision, demonstrating the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and flexibility.  Before launching into Martha’s story, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew cover the Knicks' playoff run, the fundamentals of website domain renewals, and web hosting services. Marty’s journey is sure to inspire!

This week on MissionCTRL, Lorraine Gibbons joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew in the studio to share her story. Gibbons is the Executive Director at the Cardinal Shehan Center & McGivney Community Center in Bridgeport. At 14, Lorraine migrated from Jamaica to the United States, like many immigrants, in pursuit of the American Dream. Lorraine is an experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in both the nonprofit and for-profit industries. From an early age, Gibbons realized education could be a gateway out of poverty, which led her to pursue higher education. Lorraine holds a BA and an MBA from the University of New Haven. Tune in to hear how Gibbons made the transition from the corporate sphere to flourishing in the nonprofit space.  Before delving into Lorraine’s story, the PD Flight Crew explored the battle of design apps Adobe vs. Canva and discussed Bob Marley’s "One Love" movie.  As a bonus treat, Jorge rolled out a new introduction. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Mark Lazarus joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew this week in the MissionCTRL studios to share his 20-year journey in IT and discuss how IT programs are transforming lives. Lazarus serves as the Program Manager of Information Technology at The Workplace’s Tech Ready Career Training Program. In high school, Mark was an avid athlete, participating in basketball, track, and martial arts. After an injury, his guidance counselor recommended pursuing a career in IT. Following this advice, Lazarus earned an Associate Degree in Computer and Information Systems Security and Information Assurance from Norwalk Community College, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology with a minor in Sociology from UConn. Mark's extensive real-life experience makes him the ideal advocate for serving the Bridgeport community by bridging the gap between job seekers and employers’ demands. The Tech Ready Career Training Program focuses on accessibility, designing courses that equip participants with the skills and certifications needed to excel in the dynamic field of technology. In the "Tech Ready Career Training" segment, participants will have the opportunity to take classes covering a wide range of essential IT skills: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Server+, SQL, Project Management, AWS Cloud, Google Cloud, Python, and IC2 Cybersecurity.  Before we dive into today’s main discussion, Ramon recaps his recent trip to Arizona, the PD Flight Crew shares updates on changes in web cookies that businesses need to be aware of, and we celebrate the Knicks making it to the second round of the playoffs. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This week on MissionCTRL, Ramon and the PD Flight crew sat down with the CEO and founder of Latin Financial, Sonia Alvelo. After graduating high school in Puerto Rico, Alvelo dreamed of living in the United States, a dream her aunt helped turn into reality. Alvelo landed in Bristol, Connecticut, and seized every opportunity afforded to her by attending ESL classes and practicing English through watching TV. Tune in to hear how Alvelo transitioned from working at Burger King to dominating the banking & mortgage industries. Wise beyond her years, when Sonia won the lottery, she opted for the 20-year payout instead of a lump sum and continued working. While grateful for being in the land of opportunity, something inside Alvelo yearned for more. This feeling was exacerbated when she discovered a wage earning gap between herself and her male colleagues who were doing the same job. Rather than becoming bitter, she decided to get bigger and better. Tune in to hear how Sonia handled the loss of her home during the financial collapse, and closed her first deal in her living room. Alvelo built her business based on trust, starting with one pharmacy as a client and now has 98. She sits on the board of pharmacies in PR, providing funding for gas stations and restaurants with agents across the US. Before diving into the heart of Alvelo's story, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew discuss the rebranding of Lamborghini, Disney Plus, and Hulu logos; UCONN's Men's and Women's Basketball Teams both making it to the Final Four and Beyoncé's foray into country music. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This week on MissionCTRL, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew sit down with Jermaine Brookshire Jr., Esq., an attorney at Wiggin and Dana LLP. Wiggin and Dana is a full-service law firm renowned for its highly talented, creative, and experienced lawyers who are dedicated to exceeding their clients' expectations daily. With offices in Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Palm Beach, they represent clients across the United States and globally in a wide range of sophisticated and complex matters. From defending a Fortune 500 institution in “bet-the-company” litigation to helping the next generation of inventors bring new technology to market, to preserving the wealth that family businesses have worked so hard to create, Jermaine Brookshire Jr Esq delivers to his clients by offering value-driven solutions and results. Despite facing many challenges growing up, Brookshire excelled as a student and he would arrive at school early and stay late. Unbeknownst to his teachers, there was a lot brewing under the surface at home that could have caused the average student to check out. However, Jermaine is far from average. In 2022 and 2023, he was honored as the “Star of the Year” by the Connecticut Bar Association for his continued service in various roles as an Executive Committee member. Jermaine is also the founder of The Great Expectations Movement (GEM), Inc., a non-profit motivational and personal development organization that inspires high school and college students, as well as young professionals, to pursue excellence in the face of adversity. Tune in to discover Brookshire's 5 Steps to Success. Before delving into Jermaine's story, Ramon and the Flight Crew will discuss wrestling and the WWE and The Rock's return to the ring. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Ep. 130 Lessons in Living and Selling with Doug Rawady  This week on MissionCTRL, Doug Rawady, a lifelong veteran sales professional, joined Ramon and the PD Fight Crew to share his personal development journey. Doug started his career in Westchester, New York, working in the family business. At an early age, Rawady learned he had a knack for using his charismatic personality to increase the size of his tips. Realizing that talent alone wouldn’t be enough, Rawady invested in his personal and professional training to develop his sales skills. Today, things have come full circle with Rawady serving as the Business Development Director and a Certified Sales Instructor at Sandler Training. In his role, Rawady helps businesses realize their full performance and income potential through the discovery and activation of underutilized resources and assets, and the application of effective sales, marketing, and leadership strategies and best practices. Before diving into Rawady’s story, Ramon and the PD Fight Crew share their hot takes on Dune II and Daniel Craig’s replacement in the 007 franchise. . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This week on MissionCTRL, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew present an electrifying episode with Paul Brunson, accompanied by plenty of pre-wired electrical puns. Brunson, a licensed electrical contractor in the State of Connecticut, boasts over nine years in the construction industry.  Paul’s interest in becoming an electrician was sparked during a part-time gig, marking a non-traditional entry into the industry.  Although Brunson didn’t grow up wiring circuit boards, his exposure to the field was a positive charge that shifted the trajectory of his life. Brunson holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management.  Prior to obtaining his contractor's license, Paul worked with the US Airforce and Army Corps of Engineers.  Following advice from his mentor, he went on to establish Brunson Electric, specializing in troubleshooting, repair, residential lighting design, commercial retrofits, maintenance, and services for small to mid-sized facilities.  Before diving into the core of this episode, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew explore shocking news in the world of current events, including Boeing and Bigfoot, the grand opening of the new Shelton Jersey Mike’s, and the bipartisan agreement to ban TikTok.  Tune in to hear how Brunson sold his company and became a published author. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

On this episode of MissionCTRL, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew sit down with Thaddeus “Tad” Stewart, the managing principal at Integrated Design and Construction. Stewart was born and raised in Bridgeport, CT, and later relocated to Huntington, CT.  As a young man, Thaddeus was athletic, playing three sports; this competitive prowess proved valuable when he transitioned into business. Thaddeus was influenced by his father, a masonry contractor. He spent time with his dad on job sites, where he was bitten by the architectural bug.  Watching an architect on a construction site captivated young Thaddeus, leading him to decide that this was how he wanted to spend his life.  Stewart brings 18 years of practical architectural experience, combined with 10 years in Interior Design & Facility Planning and 12 years working with various construction types at diverse levels. Before founding Integrated Design & Construction, Stewart worked at Turner Construction Company, both in the field and in the office, on many award-winning projects. Thaddeus holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Howard University and has completed additional coursework in Structural Engineering Analysis at the University of New Haven and Executive Business Management at the Tuck School of Business, Dartmouth.  Before diving into the heart of Stewart’s story, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew also survey the sports branding and entertainment landscape, discussing the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, Netflix’s new strategy, the Full Swing series, F1 season 6, and how PRIME has overtaken Gatorade as Walmart’s most-sold hydration drink. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Ramon and the PD Flight Crew sat down with Oliver Antigua, President of Pinnacle Basketball Group to talk all things sports and leadership in this episode of MissionCTRL. Antigua immigrated from the Dominican Republic to the Bronx with his mother, aunt, and two brothers. Sports played an integral part in Oliver’s childhood development and can be credited with keeping him on the straight and narrow in the rough and tumble Bronx neighborhood he grew up in. Tune in to learn how a kid from Fordham Rd made it as a walk-on at Pitt Basketball and later served as an Assistant Head Coach thanks to the help of many guardian angels along the way. Antigua’s Pinnacle Basketball Group, a sports and entertainment company is in the process of pitching a major NCAA basketball tournament to his homeland of the Dominican Republic. Ramon and the PD Flight Crew tackle the latest NFL trades and March Madness, how the Giants let Saquon Barkley and Xavier McKinney walk, changing the face of the team’s leadership in the locker room and this upcoming season’s predictions before diving into Antigua’s story.  . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Ramon and the PD Flight Crew welcome strategic partner, colleague and former mentee Mercy Quaye back to MissionCTRL. Quaye has built a storied career spanning over a decade in journalism, communications, and public relations, both in New Haven and statewide. A New Haven native, Mercy holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism and a master's degree in Public Relations, Social Media, and Applied Communications, both from Quinnipiac University. After working in both the profit and nonprofit sectors and leading communications strategies across various industries, Quaye organized a community conversation on race and identity at a local coffee shop in New Haven. What began as a modest gathering of 60 attendees eager to explore the question, "Who controls the black narrative?" has flourished into The Narrative Project. The Narrative Project is a full-service public relations and communications agency. It offers services such as communication research, earned media, paid media & support, social-media-first videos, graphic design, quantitative research, and DEI training. Before getting an update from Mercy on the latest developments at The Narrative Project, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew will discuss Apple's decision to discontinue their EV car project and the unveiling of the LA Clippers' new logo. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

Put your earbuds in and buckle up as Ramon and the PD Flight Crew take you on a “fast & furious” journey through MissionCTRL with special guest, professional race car driver and instructor, Elivan Goulart.  Shift gears right into the world of high-speed racing, entrepreneurial ventures, and personal achievements with a real-life racing legend. Originally from Brazil and now a proud dual citizen, Elivan embarked on his auto racing career in the United States at just 12 years old, starting with go-karts in 1993, then moved into cars in Formula 500 (2001 and 2002 SCCA National Runoff Champion), then transitioned to the new Formula SCCA in the Cooper Tires Championship and won a championship in 2004.  In 2011, Goulart won the SCCA National Championship in a spec Miata, and was the SCCA Presidents Cup winner that year as well.  In 2013 Elivan won the SCCA STU National Championship, and has also won the 2016 Pirelli World Challenge TCA Championship. In fact, Goulart has won over 45% of all career races entered since he started racing. Elivan Goulart is also the owner and President of the SCDA, the Sports Car Driving Association.  Founded in 1995, the Sports Car Driving Association, LLC provides the driving enthusiast the opportunity to experience high performance driving in a controlled environment. SCDA, LLC events are strictly driver educational events, and are non-competitive. SCDA welcomes everyone from novices with no track experience, as well as seasoned track drivers.  Before drifting into Goulart's inspiring journey from a childhood passion to an entrepreneurial venture, Ramon and the crew discuss the latest in racing news: F1 Hamilton's switch from Mercedes to the Ferrari team. . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This week on MissionCTRL, Dr. Chaka Felder-McEntire joined Ramon and the PD Flight Crew to share what she’s been up to at Higher Heights since making the leap to being its full time Executive Director.. On Saturday, March 23, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, Higher Heights will host an ⁠Educational Summit ⁠ at the Canal Dock Boathouse in New Haven.  In 2003, Dr. Felder-McEntire started Higher Heights as a social side hustle while working as a school counselor. The mission of Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs, Inc. is to change the lives of under-represented college-bound students by empowering, encouraging, and equipping them to obtain a post-secondary education. Chaka started her college career with ambitions of becoming an interior designer. However, after just a week, she realized it wasn’t a good fit, so she recalibrated and charted a course more aligned with her purpose and passion. Dr. Felder-McEntire is a 20+ year educational administrator with expertise in leadership, diversity and equity, school counseling, and college & career readiness. Born and raised in Harlem, Chaka's dad was an NYC Police Officer, her mother was an NYC Public school teacher, and her grandmother was a social worker who worked with Percy Sutton and Shirley Chisholm.  Tune in to hear how Dr. Felder-McEntire turned her social side hustle, with an astounding 100% high school graduation rate and 95% college enrollment rate, into her main mission. Before launching into Chaka’s story, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew cover UCONN Basketball, Caitlin Clark’s history-making season, and the backlash over Wendy’s surge pricing. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

This heartwarming episode of Mission CTRL Ramon and the PD Flight crew sit down with half of the dynamic duo of Dusty Dudes Woodworks and The Bristol Bazaar, Care Verikas.  Care met the love of her life on Match.com, and after a 10-hour marathon first date she discovered Eric also had a furry friend named after food, and she thought to herself, “This must be fate!”  Eric, a skilled craftsman and Care, a marketing professional, became a power-couple even though their professions appear to be worlds apart.  Committed to finding common ground, the Verikas’ decided to create a “side hustle” that incorporated both of their passion for building things.  Eric uses wood and Care uses words, together these entrepreneurs are making an impact in the world. Fast forward today, what started as a passion project grew into the Dusty Dude Woodworks, a thriving business allowing the couple to leave their day jobs. In addition to building Dusty Dudes Woodworks the Verikas’ created The Bristol Bazaar a space for makers and artisans to showcase their wares. Care and Eric's story is a testament to how diverse worlds can unite to create something extraordinary, making this episode a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the magic of entrepreneurial love stories.  Tune in to hear the full story behind Dusty Dudes Woodworks and discover the true identity of the “Dusty Dude.”  Their story exemplifies how merging diverse worlds can dovetail into something truly extraordinary, making this episode a must-listen. Before drilling into the heart of their story, Ramon and the Flight Crew discuss Popeyes latest marketing strategy as they venture into the chicken wing sector.  . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

In this episode of Mission CTRL, Jahkeeva Morgan, Director of Programming at The Lab at ConnCorp joins Ramon and the PD Flight Crew to share her career journey of self discovery. The Lab at ConnCORP serves as a learning and knowledge center for new ideas, a community small business hub, and a place to exchange ideas about business ownership and entrepreneurship. Morgan, a dedicated professional, focuses on addressing inequalities and achieving equity in underserved communities. She has over a decade of experience working with non-profit community organizations, such as Goodwill Industries of Connecticut. Morgan grew up with the best of both worlds: her dad was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and her mom hailed from South Carolina. This combination of rich cultural histories, both valuing hard work, significantly shaped her work ethic and character. After being accepted into an accelerated Physician’s Assistant program at St. John's University on a full scholarship, Jahkeeva was on her way to following in her parents' footsteps. But what do you do when external pressures pull you in one direction and your internal compass guides you down a different path? Tune in to hear how Morgan's story unfolds and the surprising direction it takes as she finds her purpose and follows her heart and now helps countless entrepreneurs and small businesses grow and scale.  Before diving into Jahkeeva’s story, Ramon and the crew look to finally settle the coffee vs. tea debate! . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

During the episode of Mission CTRL Ramon and the PD Flight Crew sit down with engineer and educator Kia Huggan, the young, visionary founder behind Webquity.  Webquity is an innovative saas company dedicated to empowering neurodiverse learners with innovative accessibility tools.  Their first product, 'Digital Glasses,' allows users to tailor their online experience to their unique needs.  Webquity’s mission is to ensure equitable access to online education for neurodiverse learners through the development of innovative accessibility tools.  Huggan’s personal voyage began far from the tech hubs of Silicon Valley, in the vibrant borough of New York, above a Jamaican restaurant run by her grandparents. Here, amidst the aromas of home and the spirit of enterprise, Kia's parents laid the foundation for her future, instilling in her a profound appreciation for education as the golden ticket to a life beyond the attic's four walls.  Huggan was 12 years old when she created “Roger,” a robot that could save people during a natural disaster from a robotics kit that her mother gave her. That insight and motivation fueled her passion to pursue higher education, particularly in the STEM field.  This creation wasn't just a child's experiment; it was a glimpse into Kia's future, one where her passion for engineering and education would intertwine. This passion lead her to the halls of UCONN and Harvard University. With degrees in Engineering and Education and a Masters in Entrepreneurship, Kia's academic journey is a testament to the belief that with knowledge, one can not only envision change but also enact it.  Before diving into the heart of our conversation with Kia, we also explore the latest in tech—the Vision Pro and Quest 3. These are not mere VR gadgets; they are gateways to understanding how technology can be harnessed to enhance our daily lives, a theme that resonates deeply with Webuity's mission.  Join us as we unravel Kia Huggan's story, from her roots in New York to the forefront of tech innovation, and how Webquity is carving a path for inclusivity in the digital age. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

On this special edition of Mission CTRL Ramon and the PD Flight Crew are joined by a self-proclaimed member of the Swiftie Camp, PD’s Marketing Assistant, Maggie Kruse, to recap Super Bowl LVIII and this year’s Best and Worst Commercials. The PD crew discusses how Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to victory in overtime, handing the 49ers the “almost” M&M’s ring which MARS, Inc. featured in this year’s iconic Super Bowl commercial. Kruse is set to star in Oklahoma this month and you can catch her performance at the Center Stage Theater in Shelton.   Tune in to hear who some of this year's winners & losers are according to our Mission CTRL Crew.  In case you missed the big game you can get a ranking of the commercials from the 36th Annual  USA TODAY Ad Meter competition, over 160,000 people registered to vote for their favorite spot.  Before diving into the elements of a great Super Bowl spot, Ramon and the PD Flight Crew share their insights from the game and Usher’s steamy Half-Time performance with Alicia Keys. . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

In this episode of Mission CTRL, join Ramon and the PD Flight Crew as they share the joys and pains of inner city life, community service, and believing in yourself with Dr. Monette Ferguson, the CEO and Executive Director at Alliance for Community Empowerment (formerly ABCD) in Bridgeport, CT. Born in poverty to a single mom, Dr. Ferguson has dedicated her life to empowering others and serving the underserved. Dr. Ferguson benefited from the same social services that she now helps provide for others in her capacity leading Alliance, an anti-poverty agency for the Greater Bridgeport Area serving over 35,000 individuals through its broad range of services.  Dr. Ferguson also serves as Vice Chair on the Governor’s Workforce Council Equity and Access Committee, and serves on the Board of Directors for Read to Grow and the Workplace.  Before diving into Monette’s inspiring origin story, Ramon and the PD Flight crew voraciously debate the pros and cons of the dreaded self-checkout lane, Elon Musk’s first brain chip implant, AI Drake and Amazon’s latest ad-free pay per view option. . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

In this episode of Mission CTRL, join Ramon and the PD Flight Crew as they engage with Christopher Price, the CEO/Founder of Red Fox Multi-family. With over two decades of experience in business operations within the life sciences sector, Price has made significant contributions in the pharmaceutical industry, notably in facilitating access to life-saving medications. Price spent his formative years in Danbury CT.,  by way of Greensboro NC., where his dad was a chemistry professor at North Carolina A&T when his family moved to the northeast in pursuit of more opportunities.   As a young man Price excelled at sports, but he admits his biggest accomplishments are his young family. He is married to his lovely wife Allison who he met as an undergraduate at Marist College. Together, they have 2 beautiful children, Zoey (11) and her little brother Caden (10). and together they founded a real estate investment company aimed at helping families create generational wealth.  Before diving into Christopher’s origin story, collegiate sports exploits, and pro sports pursuits, Ramon and the PD Flight crew tackle the Snoop Dogg Solo Stove debacle after the smoke settled, the Katt Williams podcast, and best practices for the EV car revolution during the winter.  . . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business