The UCW Radio Show
Acclaimed Writer and Director Sheldon Lettich
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_SheldonLettich_04292021.mp3 Sheldon Lettich was born in New York City, but moved to California at a young age and grew up in the Los Angeles area. After graduation from high school he spent nearly four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a radio operator in South Vietnam with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, and later with the elite 1st Force Reconnaissance Company based at Camp Pendleton, California. He worked his way through college as a professional photographer, and attended at the American Film Institute’s Center for Advanced Film Studies as a Cinematography Fellow. Although his initial career goal was to become a director of photography, at the AFI his interests branched out to encompass writing and directing, which became the two fields where he found eventual success in the entertainment business. Based partly upon his experiences in Vietnam, he co-authored the renowned play, “Tracers,” with a group of Vietnam Vets who were also aspiring actors. First performed on July 4th, 1980 at the Odyssey Theater in Los Angeles, the play then traveled to Joseph Papp’s Public Theater in New York City, the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago (directed by Gary Sinise), the Royal Court Theater in London, and numerous venues worldwide. It received both Drama Desk Awards and L.A. Drama Critics Awards, and is still being performed throughout the world. Around the same time, Lettich was writing numerous spec screenplays. One of these, co-written with Josh Becker, subsequently became the cult classic, Thou Shalt Not Kill… Except (1985), which starred Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi. Eventually his screenplays began attracting the attention of producers in Hollywood. He co-authored the Cold War drama, Russkies (1987), which was the first starring role for a young Joaquin Phoenix. Around the same time he wrote the screenplay for the now-classic martial arts film, Bloodsport (1988), which launched the career of Jean-Claude Van Damme. One of his Vietnam-based screenplays caught the eye of Sylvester Stallone, which resulted in an overall deal with Stallone’s White Eagle Productions, and led to him co-writing Rambo III (1988) with Stallone. The success of Bloodsport not only turned Jean-Claude Van Damme into an international action star, but it also forged a long and ongoing friendship with the man who wrote it. Van Damme helped to launch Lettich’s directing career with the film, Lionheart (1990) , which became Van Damme’s first movie to be released theatrically by a major U.S. studio. This was followed by Double Impact (1991), which was filmed in Hong Kong, with Lettich directing Van Damme in a challenging double role as twin brothers seeking revenge for their parents’ murder. Lettich next discovered Mark Dacascos, who made his starring debut in Only the Strong (1993), a film that introduced the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira to international audiences. He also directed Dolph Lundgren in The Last Patrol (2000), and Daniel Bernhardt in Perfect Target (1997). Continuing his long association with Van Damme, Lettich was a writer and a producer on the historical French Foreign Legion film, Legionnaire (1998), starring Van Damme and shot on location in Morocco. And he directed The Order (2001), an action-thriller starring Van Damme and Charlton Heston, which was filmed on locations in Israel and Bulgaria. His most recent directorial effort, which he also co-wrote, is The Hard Corps (2006), an urban action-romance. Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Vivica A. Fox, the film was shot on locations around Vancouver, Canada, and on sound stages in Romania, and was financed and released worldwide by Sony Pictures Entertainment. His latest movie is Max (2015), which he co-wrote with his long-time friend, Boaz Yakin. The movie was directed by Boaz and produced by MGM. It was released nationwide in the USA by Warner Brothers on June 26th, 2015, and by the end of the summer had grossed $43 million. The novelization sold over 100,000 copies. A sequel has been completed. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0504802?ref_=nmbio_mbio http://www.sheldonlettich.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SheldonLettichOfficial/
Former World Martial Arts Champion and Actress Christine Bannon-Rodrigues
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_christinebannonrodrigues_interviewucw.mp3 When Christine Bannon-Rodrigues first bowed in she was 13 years old. At the time the Rhode Island teenager never realized that she would one-day reign supreme as one of the super stars in the world of martial arts. Christine studied Kenpo and Wu shu, earning her black belt at age 17. She quickly became the person to beat in fighting, forms and weapons. A formidable competitor Christine was a triple threat wherever she went. Her skill as a fighter was proven time and time again, and in forms and weapons Christine was unstoppable. In 1991 Christine astounded the martial arts world by becoming a Triple Crown winner at the WAKO World Championships in England. “I won three gold medals in forms, fighting and weapons,” Christine recalled. “Everyone thought it was a freak occurrence and that I was just lucky. That got me worked up so I decided to prove my critics wrong, so in 1993 I did it again.” After winning her second Triple Crown she turned her talents and efforts into becoming a TV and movie star. Martial arts legend and action choreographer Pat Johnson hired Christine to double the star in “The Next Karate Kid.” This led to roles in Mortal Kombat, WMAC Masters where she starred as “Lady Lightning and she stunt doubled Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl) in “Batman and Robin.”Christine has also been featured on the cover of every major martial arts magazine in the world and she has written and starred in more than seven instruction videotapes. She is also the darling of the trading card set, being featured in the 1992 John Paul Mitchell National Karate Team Premier edition, Karate Kards, Sport Karate Champions, Martial Arts Masters Trading Cards, Premier Edition and the International Card Collection of Athletes medallion collection. With an eye on the future, Christine says that the Black Belt Registry will be of great benefit to all martial artists, “The access it gives us (martial artists) to everything from training tapes to gear and so much more is amazing,” she says. “One of the things I use it for is finding authentic Chinese weapons. The Internet and the Black Belt Registry is going to take martial arts to its next level.” Christine has graced the cover of almost every major martial arts magazine in the world, her relentless pursuit of working with the youth of martial arts. “Christine is one of the true gems of the world of Martial Arts, her and her husband Don have contributed so much over the decades and continue to do so.” Louis Velazquez
Former World Kickboxing Champion, Actress and Stuntwoman Kathy Long
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-25-PowerHour_KathyLong_03312021.mp3 Although retired from the ring for several years now, Kathy Long is still one of the most recognized woman in kickboxing today! She is still active in the sport from doing special appearances and giving seminars to serving as an event official. She’s also been in several movies as well. During her career she won 5 World Kickboxing Titles. Kathy began her studies in the martial arts with Aikido and has also studied in arts such as Shorin Ryu Karate & Kung Fu. She currently holds 4 different Black Belts in 4 different styles (Kung Fu San Soo, Aikido, Kung Fu and Shorinryu Karate) including a Masters Rank in Kung Fu San Soo. She is an expert in handling firearms, knives, swords and all other weaponry. As a Professional Kickboxer Kathy has been known as as a well conditioned and hardened fighter. She was a very successful kickboxer winning a total of 5 World Championships and they include: 2, KICK World Titles1, WKA World Title1, ISKA World Title1, WMAC World Title where she pummeled Japanese fighter Kyoko Kamikaze in Las Vegas, breaking her ribs and bruising her kidneys as Kathy walked away with (at the time) the highest purse ever paid to a Female Kickboxer of $20,000. Her ring career included wins over Ramona Gatto,Bonnie Canino, Japanese star Kyoko “Kamikaze” Miyazaki, French champion Dani Rocard, Canadian champion Nora Daigle and two defeats over Denise Taylor. Her only loss as a professional kickboxer (18-1-1/5) came in a Muay Thai match with Britain’s Lisa Howarth at Pickett’s Lock near London in February 1990. There was to have been a rematch later that year and Kathy trained in the Thai style with that in mind. But then Lisa got badly cut in a loss to French savate champion Nancy Joseph, and had to cancel. A two time Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee (Woman of the Year 1991 & Full Contact Fighter of the Year 1992), she retired from kickboxing in the mid 1990s choosing to concentrate on her film career and other interests. She has appeared on more than 35 martial arts magazines covers in the United States, Europe and Asia. Her work in the movie industry includes stunt work and fight choreography: She was Michelle Pfeiffer’s stunt double in “Batman Returns” (1992) and fight choreographer for the “Death Becomes Her” (1992). She has appeared on several television shows, including “Walker, Texas Ranger” with Chuck Norris. She has written several monthly columns, titled “Long Shots” for Black Belt Magazine and has also appeared in movies such as Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997), Under the Gun (1995), The Stranger (1995) Natural Born Killers (1994), Knights (1993) and Rage and Honor (1992). However, Kathy has a long list of other accomplishments as well. She has appeared on numerous television shows and in publications ranging from People magazine to a full-color layout in the National Enquirer. She is also an accomplished musician who plays proficiently musical instruments such as the Harp, Violin and Guitar. She also wrote a book entitled “No! No! No!: A Woman’s Guide to Personal Defense and Street Safety “( Paperback / Berkley Publishing Group / October 1993) along with Kickboxing Fitness Videos such as, “Kickboxing for Fun & Fitness” & “Championship Kickboxing with Kathy Long – “Round 1” Kathy is also a model and spokesperson for Century Martial Arts Equipment.
Martial Artist, Former WWE Wrestler & Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller
Former WCW & WWE star, Martial Artist and Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller is beyond a wrestler, he is first and foremost a true martial artist. He has secured a recurring role on the new MacGyver TV series, has other film projects in motion and is launching his professional point fight league. Also on the show is actor and martial artist Vincent Cecere, he has a number of projects in the works that can’t be mentioned yet but they are sure to be awesome films. He does a lot of giving back that we hope to touch on next week. Miller made his World Championship Wrestling (WCW) debut when he saved Glacier from a two-on-one attack by Wrath and Mortis at the 1997 Slamboree pay-per-view. Initially thought as just a fan who had jumped the railing, the WCW commentators then realized that this was no ordinary man and he was in fact the three-time karate champion Ernest Miller. Glacier and Ernest Miller quickly became tag team partners in their feud with Mortis and Wrath. After Glacier turned on Miller, Ernest left him and became a villain with Sonny Onoo as his manager. It was during this time that Miller’s popularity heightened. As a villain, Miller adopted an arrogant, Muhammad Ali-like trash-talking personality, calling himself “The Greatest” and gloating that he could beat anybody within two minutes, which he often did using his signature kicks. It was also around this time that Ernest began wearing ruby slippers in the ring and dancing in a James Brown-esque fashion to celebrate his victories. He would claim on Nitro that he knew the actual James Brown, leading to a pay-per-view “dance-off” between Miller and Brown, who had been brought in specially. Miller even went as far promoting his own instructional, karate home video with a pseudo infomercial. This served as a comedic parody to Billy Blanks’ Tae Bo exercise videos which were quite popular at the time. Miller and Onoo also did comedy duo routines similar to Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan’s characters from the film Rush Hour. Miller then began a minor feud with Kaz Hayashi, as Onoo has been previously Hayashi’s manager and had left him to manage Miller. Ernest won several matches over Hayashi with Onoo’s help, and also enlisted Perry Saturn as his ally. However, Saturn suffered many losses against inferior opponents due to Miller’s botched interference, so the two faced off at Starrcade, where Saturn won. Miller continued coming out and challenging the fans, the wrestlers, and anyone else to try and take him out, feuding with Scott Norton. For a time, he started coming out with the snow machine and music of Glacier, which Onoo had “purchased”, but it was short-lived, and he soon returned to his James Brown music. In March 1999, Miller and Onoo attacked fellow martial artist Jerry Flynn, with Ernest cutting off Flynn’s ponytail as a sign of disrespect. They all faced off in Uncensored in a handicap match, but Flyinn defeated them both. Miller bounced back after some time, getting a win over Scott Norton after hitting him with a crowbar. He and Norton were scheduled to wrestle in The Great American Bash, but Norton was pulled out for health problems and replaced with Horace Hogan, who Miller defeated after kicking him with a steel-tipped red dancing shoe. In June 1999, Miller had a dancing contest with Disco Inferno, who he attacked in jealously over the fans’s attention. They fought in Bash at the Beach in a “dance match” with the stipulation that the loser could not dance anymore (though this stipulation was removed at Bash at the Beach), with Miller winning thanks to Onoo. The Cat’s next opponent would be Buff Bagwell, who became famous by doing an impersonation of Miller with a bald cap and black face paint. The two met at Road Wild, but this time Onoo’s help backfired when he accidentally hit the wrong man with a briefcase, making Miller lose the match. After that, the two broke up and Onoo left WCW.
Martial Arts Leader Oso Tayari Casel
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tayari_casel_power_hour_12182012.mp3 Oso Tayari Casel is a humanitarian dedicated to improving the world one community at a time. His many cultural and philanthropic missions to several countries around the world fostered his cognizance of impactful community involvement. Throughout the years, Oso advanced his service-oriented endeavors in the United States as a youth counselor, community engagement consultant, and most-notably as a world-renowned Martial Artist. His awareness of how Martial Arts and cultural involvement can transform communities is specifically harnessed within the Hospital Safety and Security Industry through Elite Security Services & Solutions, LLC. Oso Tayari Casel is the founder and director of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy, Inc.; an institution that researches, demonstrates and spreads the contribution that Africa and China have given to the international martial arts community, while simultaneously furthering the appreciation of contemporary and traditional African and Chinese culture. His studies include cultural and humanitarian missions to Africa, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, The Netherlands, and Taiwan, the Republic of China, the arts of Kupigana Ngumi, Shaolin and Tai Chi Chuan with the Directors of the Pan Afrikan Martial Arts Federation. One of the strongest aspects of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy is its dedication to community development, health and well being. Oso is an instructor at several elementary schools in the DC public school system. Over several decades he has worked as consultant for the Substance Abuse Services of the Department of Corrections for the Lorton Prison and Correctional Treatment Facilities. He has served as the Primary Substance Abuse Counselor for a federal program at a juvenile maximum-security prison and has worked with the District of Columbia Government’s Department of Human Services at group homes for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. In addition, he worked as a consultant to CASA Community Health, (Baltimore) a national prevention project focused on public housing developments funded by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. Oso is a Marital Arts Grand Master and utilizes his more than 55 years of experience as a Martial Arts Hall-of-Famer and instructor to lead Elite’s officers in the art of de-escalation. His ideals are at the heart of Elite’s core values of Discipline, Courtesy, Respect, and Care. These same ideals often lead the company into the midst of some of the most criminally active cities in America, where Oso continues to focus Elite on doing the highest good. During his prestigious tournament career Oso Tayari Casel ranked in the “Top Ten Black Belts in the USA” for over a decade. In the fall of 1980 he was S.T.A.R. Rated # 1 in Kung Fu and has won in some of the most prestigious competitive arenas in North America, such as: the Battle of Atlanta, Diamond Nationals, Superstar Nationals, AKA Grand Nationals, Top Ten National, Bare Knuckle Knock Out Championship and Nevada State Grand Championship. Oso Tayari Casel was one of the first to popularize ground fighting in competition. In 1975 he was the only non-Karate practitioner chosen by Chuck Norris to represent the USA in team fights. Recognition of his fighting and technical artistry garnered appearances on the covers of international martial arts publications including: Official Karate, Black Sports, Martial Arts Tradition, History and People, Inside Kung Fu, Defense Combat, Men of Steel Discipline, Black Heroes of the Martial Arts and The Official History of Karate in America: The Golden Age: 1968-1986. He was featured in two recent martial arts documentaries: Urban Dragons: Black and Latino Masters in the Chinese Martial Arts and The Black Kung Fu Experience for Public Broadcast Systems (PBS). He is inducted in the Action Martial Arts Magazine’s Hall of Honors & Spirits Awards: Golden Pioneer, World Professional Martial Arts Hall of Fame: Legend Kung Fu Fighter, United States Karate Hall of Fame: Grand Master, Golden Eagle Awards, Howard University Washington, DC, Chicago Martial Arts Lifetime Achievement Award, and many more. After retiring from competition he successfully co-founded and promoted the Triple “AAA” rated US Capitol Classics Martial Arts Tournament for seven years in the nation’s capital. Oso Tayari Casel has appeared in various martial arts films and is a frequent guest on local television and radio programs. He teaches and lectures throughout the country and internationally, and is the Master Teacher at Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy in Silver Spring, Md. Tayari Casel also performed as a professional magician at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA. Oso Tayari Casel began martial arts during the turbulent times of the civil rights era. For reasons as simple as being able to defend himself from neighborhood bullies or dealing with confrontations involving the extremist of society as well as self pride. Forty Seven (47) years later little did he recognize that his childhood hobby would take him around the world. During those travels he would have life changing experiences, visiting fascinating places, meeting intriguing people and sharing moments of despair, fatigue, sadness, frustration, joy and happiness. He never imagined on that early fall evening when he took his first class at the Southtown YMCA in Chicago, Illinois @ 66th and Union Avenue that his journey into the martial arts would leave a legacy around the world.
Black Belt Magazine Hall of Famer Willie “The Bam” Johnson
Martial Arts Leader Willie “The Bam” Johnson, is an award-winning martial arts teacher whose life mission is to help young adults and others become empowered, through the martials arts in order to make good life choices. He is a seven-time sport karate and kung fu world champion, a two-time All-American champion, and a nationally ranked Triple Crown martial arts champion. He teaches at The Bams Martial Arts Academy. Willie H. Johnson resides in Laurel Maryland. He can be contacted at www.pointmma.com Willie is passionate about empowering others, below are a list of activities he either founded or personally supports. POINT MMA Safety based Mixed Martial Arts Krazy Martial Athletic 1-minute fitness workout challenges Diva Grit Empowering women through fitness and self-defense Authentic Street Combat! Safety Safety and street self-defense WARRIOR MINDSET Helping people to find balance in live through martial arts CALL 2 ACTION Finding the next big martial arts action stars!
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen is an expert in life success, sports performance training, and international business coaching. He is a corporate educator for Duke Corporate Education and trains executives on how to break through barriers to achieve their next level of success. He is the President and Owner of Karate International of Durham, Inc. and Elite Corporate Coaching. He opened his martial arts school in 1980 in Durham, NC, running a successful school with hundreds of students under his leadership. Hosting one of the longest-running martial arts tournaments in North Carolina, the Durham Karate Open, established in 1979, Grandmaster Bowen is the former coach of the Duke University Taekwondo Team, former martial arts coach for the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill football team, former sports coordinator for the NCAS and the USOC Olympic Festival, inducted into numerous martial arts halls of fame for his martial arts achievements including the Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors 2018 Contribution in Publishing Award, for 2018 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Book. As an educator, he has been on the Duke University Physical Education staff for over 20 years, influencing thousands of students in mind-body training. Hanshi Bowen is also a professional bowler (PBA Member) and bowling instructor of physical education at Duke University. He has published over 20 books on personal development training, including the 2015 & 2015 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Autobiography Book, Unstoppable Confidence, Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Success Guide, Get Motivated – the Key to Success, Zen Mind-Body Meditation System – Meditation for Everyday Living, and others. https://www.amazon.com/Jessie-Bowen/e/B00M2HGDEG
The Black Dragon Ron Van Clief
Ron “The Black Dragon” Van Clief is a martial arts legend. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1943, where he started martial arts training in his early teens. Ron Van Clief served in the U.S. Marine from 1960 to 1965 with a tour in the Vietnam War in the year 1965. Following his military service, he became a New York City Transit Police Officer from 1965 to 1968. Ron Van Clief went on to become a five-time karate and kung fu world champion and a 15-time All-American Champion. He has competed in both full-contact and non-contact karate tournaments in New York and several national tournaments. His martial arts training began in the mid-1950s, which he later trained alongside Bruce Lee in Hong Kong and was nicknamed, “The Black Dragon”. Van Clief was a student of Goju-Ryu masters Peter Urban, Frank Ruiz, and Moses Powell, as well as WingTsun founder Leung Ting Modern Arnis (Remy Presas) Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Joe Moreira). On December 16, 1994 he competed in the 4th Ultimate Fighting Championship at age 51 against Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Royce Gracie. Van Clief is an author and creator of a number of instructional books and video recordings, as well as film choreographer and actor appearing in several films. Ron Van Clief continues to conduct seminars and attend training with his son in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. https://www.ronvanclief.com/
Founder of Combat Hapkido John Pellegrini
The founder of modern Combat Hapkido Grandmaster John Pellegrini has many accomplishments to his name and here is a list of them so that readers can learn much more about one of the leaders of the world of martial arts. 10th Dan Combat Hapkido – World Martial Arts Alliance, 9th Dan Hapkido – World Ki-Do Federation / Hanminjok Hapkido Association, Founder / President “International Combat Hapkido Federation” , • 9th Dan TaeKwonDo – Founder “Independent TaeKwonDo Association”, Founder / President of the “International Police Defensive Tactics Institute”, Founder / President of the “Military Combatives Association”, Founder / President of the “World Martial Arts Alliance” HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS 1988 USA Korean Karate Association “Instructor of the Year”, 1995 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Diamond Life Achievement” , 1996 – 1997 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Golden Life” – “Founder of the Year”, 1996 Florida Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer”, 1998 Martial Arts Masters, Pioneers & Legends Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 1998 – 2004 World Karate Union Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 1999 United Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2000 United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 2001 Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2003 United States Martial Artists Assoc. Hall of Fame “Golden Life Achievement”, 2003 Masters Hall of Fame “Silver Life Achievement”, 2003 Int. Assoc. of Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Outstanding Practitioner”, 2004 Inducted in the “TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame for Hapkido”, 2004 Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame “Instructor of the Year”, 2005 Budo Int. Magazine Hall of Fame “Legend Grandmaster”, 2006 Aaron Banks’ World Professional M. A. Hall of Fame: “World Renowned Hapkido Grandmaster”, 2007 Artes Marciales Magazine Hall of Fame “Martial Arts Pioneer”, 2007 Cinturon Negro Magazine (Spain) International Hall of Fame “Distinguished Founder”, 2008 Inducted “Hall da Fama Das Artes Marciais Brasileiras”, 2014 TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame “U.S. Grandmaster of the Year”, 2017 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer Award”, 2019 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Legends Award” MAJOR MEDIA FEATURES March 1990 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, 1991 Featured on “ESPY-TV: World of Martial Arts”, 1992 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” – Karate International Magazine, April 1994 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1995 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business” Magazine, October 1996 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo & Korean Combat Arts” Magazine (UK), July 1997 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1999 Cover feature “Martial Arts Professional” Magazine, October 1999 Article in the “Wall Street Journal”, September 2000 Cover feature “Artes Marciales” Magazine (Latin America), June 2001 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business.com” Magazine, September 2002 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 2003 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, Featured in the 2003 Edition of “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” Book, December 2004 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, February 2005 Cover feature “Action Martial Arts” Magazine, April 2005 Cover feature “Mundo Marcial” Magazine (Latin America), May 2005 Cover feature “Disciplinas” Magazine (Latin America), August 2006 Cover feature “Afghanistan Freedom Watch” Magazine, January 2009 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, September 2009 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, May 2012 Cover Feature TaeKwonDo Times Magazine, July 2015 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine. Federal Air Marshall Service – NATO Forces Europe – US Army 10th Mountain Division – Costa Rica Police SWAT Team – Colombia Air Force Anti-Terrorist Unit – US Office of Naval Intelligence – German Air Force & many other Police Depts. & Military Units around the World. https://www.dsihq.com/
Martial Artist and Fitness Pro Linda Josefsson “Lady Viking”
Linda Josefsson was featured on the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez to share her story, he is a little more about here and her journey to date. She is a 4 time national martial arts champion and acclaimed fitness trainer. “Many people aren’t aware of her accomplishments such as being a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under famed martial arts Billy Blanks as well as being a part of the original Tae Bo series. She holds a degree in economics as well as in fashion design, knowledge that she has integrated into her current training programs. Learn more about Linda Josefsson aka the “Lady Viking” Having struggled with eating disorders throughout her childhood and teen age years Linda used fitness to heal and put herself through a complete body transformation from a chunky teenage girl to a lean figure competitor. At the age of 47 she’s in better shape than ever proving that with hard work and a no quitting attitude age is nothing but a number. Her experience, knowledge, training and hardcore approach has inspired many and given her clients the tools to succeed. Linda “Lady Viking” Josefsson has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. She’s also has a 3rd degree black belt in martial arts. Linda Josefsson is a native of Sweden. She studied Economics in college and has a degree in Fashion Design from Boras University in Sweden. Growing up Linda was competitive in several sports including track & field, horse back riding, soccer and cross country skiing. She later moved to France to pursue a career as a professional horse trainer in Western riding. In 1990 Linda moved to California as an exchange student and during this time she was introduced to 7-time World Karate Champion and Tae-Bo creator Billy Blanks. It was here she found her deep passion for martial arts and the place she would call “home” for the next 29 years. Linda was always a natural athlete and after only 2 years she received her black belt from Mr. Blanks. All the hard work and countless hours of training later resulted in 4 National Championships as well as a tournament win in amateur boxing. A shoulder injury prevented Linda from doing further competitive boxing but instead she’s been sharing her skills and knowledge teaching martial arts. Today Linda is a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a very accomplished personal trainer, corporate trainer and group exercise instructor. She is also an NPC figure competitor. She’s been teaching at several gyms in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley area and has devoted her life to helping people accomplish their fitness goals. www.ladyvikingfitness.com https://www.instagram.com/swedish_vikinglady/
Twin Cities Lyme Foundation Founder Lisa Najarian
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-04-15-UCWRadio_LisaNajarian.mp3 We had the opportunity to have the founder of Twin Cities Lyme Foundation and social platform “My Girlfriendships” Lisa Najarian on the UCW Radio Show. The social platform brings women together globally virtually and in real life, giving them the opportunity to create lasting memories. The Twin Cities Lyme Foundation is a work of passion for her as it gives her the opportunity to save someone the pain that she had to endure without knowing whats wrong, its about bringing awareness as well as helping people through guidance to get the help that they need. “Lisa Najarian is a good soul, she is known as the Caretaker, I referred to her as such because she is the anchor of her family, of her foundation and of many other projects. What she is doing for others is amazing, she’s not just a spokesperson she gets her hands dirty and that is what makes it incredible. She’s touching so many lives and I’m proud of what she’s done and is about to do as an author, more over I’m proud to call her my friend and part of my family. Just an outright good hearted person making a difference.” – Louis Velazquez Her Story: Sixteen years and several misdiagnoses later, in 2015, Lisa Najarian was diagnosed with Lyme disease. Over the course of those years, she suffered greatly with symptoms that were a complete mystery to her. “I felt like such an oddball in so many situations! One day I would feel good and the next day I would be wiped out. I felt as though most everyone thought I was crazy or lying about my health,” she expresses. “I have almost completely lost my hearing in my left ear and my right ear’s hearing loss varies from day to day. I now know I have over 60 symptoms of Lyme disease. It is a horrible disease and one NO ONE should ever have to endure!” Lisa, a California native, has lived her adult life in the top three most prevalent Lyme infested regions in the nation. She believes, as an avid gardener, she was bitten while living in Illinois, however, does not remember seeing a target rash. After 14 years in Illinois, she moved with her husband and two children to Connecticut, the mecca for Lyme disease. There, she became aware of Lyme, and strongly suspected a correlation between her multiple symptoms and the tick-borne disease. Her move to Minnesota in 2014 brought hope and a positive diagnosis. “I am passionate to create the same awareness here in the Midwest that there is on the East Coast. Too many people are unaware and so many need to be helped.” Lisa received a BA in education at California State University, Chico and earned her Masters Degree in Education from National University. She, her husband and children reside in the Twin Cities area.
Singer, Actress and Fitness Trainer Dawn Derow
On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with Dawn Derow, a very talented singer who focuses on cabaret style music but is diverse and can cross over into rock, jazz and opera. She is also a fitness trainer, actress and writer. Learn more about her on the show. www.ucwradio.com More About Dawn Derow A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Dawn grew up in Eastham, MA and began pursuing her performing career in her childhood. She graduated from the Boston Conservatory with a Bachelor’s in Music: Vocal Performance & Opera Emphasis, achieving the second highest vocal score in her class. After graduation, Dawn performed in operas and musicals around the world, as well as a guest entertainer aboard international cruise ships, displaying an uncanny ability to transition from singing a Puccini aria to a jazzy torch song. Cabaret Awards & Performances In 2008, Dawn, having lived in New York City for several years, began to pursue a Cabaret career. Over the past 12 years, she has performed in prestigious venues, including the Weill Center at Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, The Laurie Beechman Theater, Don’t Tell Mama, The Friars Club, the Bitter End, The Cutting Room, Carroll Place, and most recently The Green Room 42. Dawn used her songwriting and guitar abilities throughout her Cabaret performances, leading to high praise for her shows. Dawn soon after began reeling in the awards. Her CD Music 4 TWO with award-winning guitarist Sean Harkness earned her a 2014 nomination for “Best CD” from the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs (MAC). In 2015, Dawn won her first MAC award for her work in the duo show REVOLUTION with Kathleen France. In 2016, Dawn employed her formidable opera singing skills in her solo show LEGIT: A Classical Cabaret. She received a Bistro Award for “Outstanding Vocalist” for her performance. Two years later, Dawn won the 2018 MAC Award for “Best Female Vocalist” for her critically acclaimed show, My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her director, Jeff Harner, also won “Best Director” from the Bistro and MAC awards. Dawn will be releasing an album of her songs from MY SHIP: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Dawn’s most recent show, The House That Built Me, played to packed audiences at the Laurie Beechman Theater. Based on her love for her father’s vast record collection that Dawn grew up listening to, she weaves a story of how these songs inspired and helped her blossom into the multi-faceted performer she is today. The setlist includes classic pop hits and Broadway show tunes from legendary performers such as Judy Collins, Jacques Brel, Crosby Still Nash & Young, Rosemary Clooney, as well as contemporary artists P!nk and Miranda Lambert. The House That Built Me received rave reviews from the press, which you can read below. In the Fall of 2019, Dawn sang in the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Convention at Rose Hall at Lincoln Center. You can view Dawn’s performance of “White Cliffs of Dover” on her YouTube Channel. Dawn’s next solo cabaret production, Gypsy In My Soul: The Songs of Eydie Gorme, was delayed due to COVID-19. Stay tuned for updated performance dates coming soon. Dawn will be releasing her album of songs from My Ship: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Health and Fitness When Dawn isn’t performing, her main focus has been on her work in the area of health, fitness, and body healing. In 2013, Dawn launched her company Divine Body Balance. Her company helps clients using her expertise as a NASM-certified personal trainer, AFFA group fitness instructor, Yoga Alliance instructor, Thai Massage practitioner, mobility health coach, and as Rock Tape: Cupping, Kinesiology taping practitioner. Whether it’s through song or body work, Dawn’s mission is to connect with and heal the human mind, body, and soul. https://www.dawnderow.com/
HGTV, DIY Star Jason Cameron
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-17-UCWRadio_JasonCameron_111720.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the opportunity to speak with HGTV and DIY star Jason Cameron, known for Man Caves, Desperate Landscapes and so much more. We talk about his fitness days, his background in construction, his mentoring of youth, his great relationship with his wife as well as Tony Siragusa, Charlie Sheen and Snoop Dogg and much more . make sure to follow him on social media @jcamerontv Jason Cameron is an American television presenter and actor most notable for his role on the TLC reality show, While You Were Out and is currently hosting Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes for the DIY Network. Some more about Jason Cameron Jason moved to New York City to pursue an acting career, he had his heart and mind set on it. He landed a few minor roles at that time from Sex and the City, The Guiding Light to All My Children. Being ambitious and not one to hold back he jumped right into print modeling in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Maxim and GQ. While in pursuit of his dream, Jason was always drawn to carpentry and construction which started at a very young age. he worked as a construction worker after college to make ends meet. In 2003, he auditioned as an on-screen carpenter for the TLC renovation program, While You Were Out. He got the job and joined the cast in season two, staying on until the end of the show’s run in 2006. After the show’s end, Cameron became a licensed contractor and was approached by DIY Network to host their landscape makeover show Desperate Landscapes in 2007. Since then, he has also been hosting Man Caves and Project Xtreme for the network. On the health and fitness front Jason Cameron is a certified personal trainer, specializing in strength and conditioning. He has competed in numerous bodybuilding competitions and has worked as a fitness model, appearing in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Muscle Media. He is currently a representative and the Fitness Expert for Men’s Fitness.
The Martial Arts Woman Andrea Harkins
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-11-UCWRadio_AndreaHarkins_111020.mp3 Andrea F. Harkins, a/k/a THE MARTIAL ARTS WOMAN, is an internationally recognized writer, motivator, and martial artist. She was a long-time columnist for Martial Arts Illustrated UK where she shared stories of successful martial art women. She currently writes for The Martial Arts Guardian (UK), MASUCCESS, The Parrish Village News, and her blog, The Martial Arts woman. Previously she wrote for Martial Arts Business (Australia),Conflict Manager, The World Martial Arts Magazine, and Think Positive Magazine. MAGAZINE FEATURES: She has been featured twice in The World Martial Arts Magazine, twice in Martial Art Illustrated UK, and twice in MASUCCESS magazine. BOOKS: Andrea’s first book, The Martial Arts Woman shares the stories and insights of more than twenty-five women in the martial arts and how they apply martial arts to their lives. In this book, the reader catches a glimpse into the brave and empowered woman who dares to be all that she can be. Her second book, Martial Art Inspirations for Everyone, are daily anecdotes and reflections for living a better life. HALL OF FAME: In July, 2017, Andrea was inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Leading Motivational Speaker/Author/ Martial Arts Business Expert. She was inducted into the Canadian Martial Art Hall of Fame in 2016. She is also listed in AMAA’s Who’s Who in Martial Arts 1st Edition. INTERVIEWS: Andrea has been interviewed on numerous martial art and positivity podcast shows including Martial Thoughts, Martial Art Nation, Warriorcast, the Dynamic Dojo Radio Show, Martial Arts Media, Readily Random, Life is a Marathon, the Master Jack show, and more, where she has shared her insightful messages of positivity, hope, and inspiration. Her mission is to help others live positive, happy, and powerful lives. IGNITE YOUR POWER! Join Andrea in her journey to discover how to win life’s everyday challenges. It does not matter if you are a martial artist. Every person is capable of igniting their personal power, wisdom, and grace, with compassion and spirit, just like a seasoned martial artist. Find the balance that is missing in your life, and learn Andrea’s secrets and martial arts wisdom that she graciously shares, in order to help you live a better life each and every day. https://www.themartialartswoman.com
Acclaimed Artist Danielle Weber
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-12-09-UCWRadio_DanielleWeber_120920.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the pleasure of having Danielle Weber on the show, she is an extremely talented artist that works include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tupac, Queen and so much more. To add to her awesome talent she’s heavy into fitness as a lifestyle, keeping herself fit in mind, body and soul. Please learn more about her at www.daniellesartwork.com and listen to the show on https://www.ucwradio.com Danielle Weber is an Australian artist based in Melbourne. Danielle’s passion and love for her craft is evident through her diverse range of styles and quality. https://daniellesartwork.com About Danielle Weber: Danielle Weber is an Australian artist, whose passion and love for her craft is evident through her diverse range of styles and quality of work. Danielle’s career in art stems from growing up in an artistic and creative family, with an abundance of encouragement and support leading to her art dream being released in 2011 Since Danielle received a comment from Dwayne Johnson on a portrait of him she had painted, her dream of becoming a world acclaimed artist has become a reality. Meeting Dwayne in 2015 reassured her that her place in the art world was firmly established. With a strong and rapidly growing social media presence, Danielle’s work has extended to Hollywood actors, Olympians, Sports stars and Leading Business personalities. She has been commissioned by clients as far as the Middle East and creates works which span from realism to abstract pieces. Articles about her work have featured on ABC news, News.com.au, Broadsheet and the Geelong Advertiser. Danielle’s work has been recognised by the likes of Tim Cahill, Chris Brown, Ice Cube, Conor McGregor and Gal Gadot. Danielle’s reach continues to grow worldwide. A beautiful example of the impact and influence her work has can be seen with her recent road trip through Spain. While traveling she stumbled upon the small town of Torreblanca, where she discovered and took photos of the murals around town. Word got out on social media that she was there, sparking the organisers of the Torreblanca urban art festival, CITRIC, to reach out and ask her to be to be a part of the festival, and of course, she said yes! In 2018, Australia’s leading sports media business Crocmedia commissioned Danielle to paint her biggest mural to date in only 7 days! The piece celebrated the companies association with sport and was painted on the side of their Marquee located in the Birdcage at the 2018 Racing Spring Carnival which was seen by hundreds of thousands of people. Her extensive range of murals grace the walls of restaurants, cafes, shop fronts, gyms, dance studios and external walls of a variety of building developments. Mural work has extended to marketing pieces like the ones heralding the release of Paramore’s recent album and Galantis. She has worked with reputable brands such as Converse, Uncle Jack Watches, and Taubmans Australia on a variety of projects. She is aligned with charities and proudly represented Starlight Foundation, Red Kite, Beyond Blue, Cancer Council and many more. Danielle’s creative ventures extend to public speaking with a focus on motivational speaking to young people, whether as part of mentoring programs or school visits. Recent participation as part of a panel of successful young women for a My Go to Gal event demonstrated her commitment to empowering young women with advice on how to become successful in male dominated fields as her own. With a Double Degree in a Bachelor of Health Sciences and Bachelor of Arts, Danielle prides herself on her strict work ethic and discipline, to ensure she maintains her ability to create consistently. Danielle’s bold approach to challenges underpins her success and drive and her extensive experience on the world stage. Having traveled to over 40 countries across the world her extensive cultural understandings and breadth of vision bring depth and spirit to her work.
Super Bowl Champion and Acclaimed Author Ryan Harris
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-02-13-UCWRadio_RyanHarris_02082021.mp3 Super Bowl Champion, author and financial literacy advocate, Ryan Harris, joins host Louis Velazquez on the UCW Radio Show to talk about everything from sports to finance and his new books. Ryan Harris is a former American football offensive tackle of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft and also played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Pittsburgh Steelers. About Ryan Harris Super Bowl 50 Champion Ryan Harris is a 10 year veteran of the NFL. Ryan was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2007 as an offensive tackle. Ryan left Denver for a few years and continued his career with the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs. He then came back to Denver and played left tackle in the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 Championship year. Most recently Ryan was with the Pittsburgh Steelers before retiring at the end of the 2016 season. Ryan played college football at the University of Notre Dame, where he graduated with two degrees, one in Economics and Policy and the other in Political Science. Ryan is a practicing Muslim, from Minnesota, and currently resides with his family in Denver, CO. Off the field, Ryan believes that together we can change the world. He believes that “It is your right to be extraordinary.” That when we embrace that right, we create positive change in the world. And through our commitment to educate ourselves, invest in our communities and act on our passions, real change happens www.ryanharris68.com
Powerlifting Icon and Motivational Speaker C.T. Fletcher
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-03-04-UCWRadio_CTFletcher_03032021.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we has the pleasure of having not only a bench press world champion but also a true inspiration and prime example of inner strength , C.T. Fletcher , the Iron Addict himself joined us BUT this is a special show as we had his wife and family anchor Ms. Bea and his son who just became a world champion himself Samson Fletcher. https://training.ctfletcher.com , https://www.ucwradio.com Learn more about the incredible C.T. Fletcher: https://www.ctfletcher.com “In the years that followed I was actually able to lift some decent weight. Realizing I was given a second chance, I adapted a healthy lifestyle. I resigned myself to the fact that my powerlifting days were done. The records of my accomplishments were in the books and I returned to my first weightlifting endeavor and re-immersed myself into bodybuilding. I was blessed to compete in bodybuilding again and was blessed even more with a title here and there. The bottom line is I did not give up on my gift of life. I decided to live and pursue happiness and fulfillment of my aspirations. Along the way I have been able to convey this same passion to others. I find joy in my experience with others, as they discover what they already possess! Today’s social media is an amazing fuckin thing!!! Through the miracle of it, I have been able to tell my story. Its incredible how we are all so fuckin connected! This is true in more ways than one. I continue to tell my story and shed insight with others who actually are interested in my opinion or advice. I am happy to help. In return I receive thousands of kind messages and letters from people all over the world about how I have made a positive difference in their lives! IMAGINE THAT???? HUMILITY does not even begin to scratch the surface. Me? An old guy infatuated with weights, as it was and continues to be my instrument to transform and in some cases reinvent myself! Ultimately, I say follow your dreams, reach those “unattainable” goals, but also use your instincts and do not sacrifice your health!!! Your body is a gift from God, your temple! In most cases we as human beings have full control of how we choose to sculpt our bodies. Do not take it for granted, we only get one! If you want to accomplish a physical task or condition, it is up to YOU (and the Good Lord willing). You will no doubt encounter obstacles, but bear in mind, “It’s Still Yo Mutha Fuckin Set!” It’s now 2016…and a lot has changed since last year!!! I have decided to try my hand at processing your orders of Iron Addicts merchandise. I feel that more involvement by me and my family will make for a more gratifying experience. Gym wise: Iron Addicts Gym in Signal Hill, CA has opened its doors. This is my first gym!!! There is also an Iron Addicts Gym in Las Vegas NV and as of April 23rd an Iron Addicts Gym in Miami, FL. Even more exciting gym news, there are plans this year for an Iron Addicts / Nitro Gym in AUSTRALIA!!! It is my goal that no matter where the fuck in the world that you are, you’ll be right at home at an Iron Addicts Gym near YOU!”
Martial Arts Leader and Action Film Director Bobby Samuels
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-10-31-UCWRadio_BobbySamuels_10302020.mp3 On the episode of the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez we have action film director Bobby Samuels on the show, we touched on film making today, diversity in film, the digital disruption and the growth of independent film making. Bobby is one of the leaders in the action film industry that is rising higher each year, he has opened up doors for many and continues to do so today. He is on the path to releases a number of new projects in 2021/22 and we can not be prouder of him on the UCW Radio Show. Just one of the really good guys in the world of entertainment who gives back to so many. About Bobby Samuels American martial artist Robert Samuels was a fan of martial arts and Hong Kong cinema, following in the footsteps of Jim Kelly & Ron Van Clief. Samuels got his first role on the movie The Gambling Ghost where he played a minor bad guy, but his knowledge of martial arts and enthusiasm made an impression on Sammo Hung who would later give him his biggest role in Don’t Give A Damn, before introducing him to Yuen Wo-ping who hired him to play one of the terrorists trying to take over the cruise liner in The Red Wolf. Samuels would then appear as an extra in Teddy Robin’s Hong Kong Graffiti, before leaving Hong Kong to break into the American industry. All shows are done on the premiere video collaboration network VEROHive https://www.verohive.com , its FREE to join and be part of the evolution!
World’s Fitness One Arm Man Logan Aldridge
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-10-29-UCWRadio_LoganAldridge.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with a truly inspirational person in the world fittest one arm man Logan Aldridge, we touch on his accident, his motivation, his company Adaptive Training (ATA) and so much more. Take a listen and be inspired! Logan’s story in his own words: June 26, 2004 should have gone down as one of the worst days in history, at least for Logan Aldridge. On that summer evening, Logan was wakeboarding with his family near their vacation home on Lake Gaston in Virginia. In a terrible instant, the rope around his arm became entangled in the boat’s propeller and cut through all his muscles right to the bone. Six hours, one ambulance, one helicopter, and two hospitals later, it was clear that there was no other choice – Logan’s left arm had to be amputated. A conversation between Logan and his mother, Lisa, set the attitude for his extraordinary recovery. He said, “Mom, what if I lose my arm?” She replied, “It’s OK. It’s only an arm.” The next day, seeing the reflection of his amputated arm in a window, Logan cried. That was the first and last time Logan grieved his loss. Somehow he knew that bigger and better things were waiting for him. Logan’s friends and family showered him with love and encouragement. He was left-handed, and had to learn how to write all over again. He also had to relearn simple things like tying shoes and buttoning pants – this time with just one hand. But he quickly moved on from the basics to the sports he loves. One year later, as soon as Logan was able, he hit the water with a passion to do his very best. Logan has not only overcome the challenge of losing a limb, but he is achieving at the highest levels. He was the youngest competitor and placed 2nd in wakeboarding at the 2006 O&P Extremity Games for amputees. He also plays on the varsity lacrosse team at his school, snowboards, and shoots under 100 on the golf course! The day that should have ruined one life is, instead, transforming the lives of thousands. It began a journey of hope for Logan and for the countless people he has touched with his inspiring story.
Mike “The Miz” Mizanin 2004 Interview
This is an interview conducted by Louis Velazquez with Mike “The Miz” Mizanin in 2004 Real Name: Michael Gregory Mizanin Ring Name: The Miz Height: 6′ 1″ Weight: 215 Home: Parma, OH Years in Wrestling: 1 yr. 8 months Current Affiliations: UPW Past Affiliations: NA Ultimate Goals: contract with WWE Website Links: www.themizareyouready.com Favorite Color: black and blue Favorite music group: Right now, Trapt Favorite Movie: Swingers, Old School, Forrest Gump, Dumb and Dumber Be good. Be bad. Be MIZ. That’s the saying… Why you ask? I created a character called The Miz because of a feeling I get. Everyone has a Miz in them. People fear bringing their MIZ out because of what everyone’s reaction may be. They care too much about what people think instead of being themselves. That fear, that feeling of being scared is what gives MIZ it’s amo! Whether it’s the fear of approaching someone you desire in a bar for the first time, bungee jumping, sky diving, or just plain old fear of anything, it’s allowing yourself to be scared! But when you are being Miz, you step up to that fear and turn that knot in your stomach into energy which then turns to adrenaline which builds up and builds up until you explode. And that my friends is when you are being “MIZ.” The Miz is bringing out that raw, primal side. The side that has no judgements that is just you. It doesn’t care what people think or how they’ll react. The Miz steps up to that fear and shoves it right up someone’s ass. Some people say “Be yourself.” I say Be good. Be bad. BE MIZ. Miz This month on the cover of UCW’s Pro Wrestling Online magazine is probably one of the next WWE stars to enter the ring, Michael Mizanin, better known as “THE MIZ”, he is one of the star attractions of the Ultimate Pro Wrestling Promotion run by the legendary Rick Bassman and has gone from the Wrestling World to the Real World and his future is looking brighter and brighter. Louis Velazquez: Miz, thanks for taking time out of your obviously busy schedule to participate in this Q&A session with us. MIZ: Not a problem, anything to support what you’re doing. Louis Velazquez: Thank you Miz that’s always good to hear, so let me ask you something, what got you interested in Pro Wrestling? MIZ: Ever since I was a little kid I’ve loved to watch wrestling but never thought I was big enough to do it. I tried out for a show called The Real World. Trying out and making it onto this show was a dream for me as corny as it may sound. I remember in 7th grade sitting there watching The Real World San Francisco and saying to myself that some day I ‘m going to be on this show. 8 years later I followed that dream to become part of the cast of The Real World 10. While taping I felt that nobody really liked me and wouldn’t accept me for who I was. So I created The Miz, my alter ego, and started telling people off. The cast started liking The Miz better than they liked Mike so did the fans. That ended and I went back to Parma not really knowing what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I had to get out of Parma. I started paging through my high school year book and that brought back memories of my friends coming over to my house every Sunday to watch wrestling. Remember back in those days there were usually a paper view every Sunday between WWE, WCW, and ECW. I realized that day that I wanted to become a professional wrestler. I moved to Los Angeles and started attending UPW’s Ultimate University ever since then I’ve been addicted. The Real World made me realize I can achieve my dreams if I try hard enough so that’s what I’m doing. Louis Velazquez: Miz, I have to say that you are one intense person and you have a lot of drive, that is what makes you different from most, this is just what I see, those are the qualities needed for success. So when you finally got to step into the Ring how did you feel? MIZ: I was nervous as hell. I didn’t know what to think. I saw all these guys taking bumps and I had no idea what to do. I never wrestled in high school so even chain wrestling was new to me. Louis Velazquez: I can understand that totally, Well one major benefit of being guided by Rick Bassman is that you are taught the the ropes beyond taking bumps, who actually came up with your gimmick? MIZ: I came up with The Miz on the Real World. Everybody would pick on me in the house nitpicking mostly and I never liked to hurt people’s feelings. Until one day I went off and had no idea what I said because I was in the zone but from then on I gained respect from everyone in the house. Louis Velazquez: That was the first gimmick that you had if I’m not mistaken right? MIZ: Yes, That was the first gimmick. However, I do remember dressing up like different wrestlers when I was a kid. Louis Velazquez: You have been wrestling for about a year and a half, have you worked with other promotions beyond UPW? MIZ: Not really, I’ve mainly worked with UPW. Louis Velazquez: You’re obviously a bright guy and I’m sure that you do other things beyond wrestling, can you share that with us? MIZ: I go to colleges and speak to students about issues that face them in their everyday lives. I take my experiences off the Real World and try to take what I’ve learned and spill it to them. It’s a great job because it helps get me comfortable in front of big crowds. I
Beth Phoenix 2004 Interview
This is an interview conducted by Louis Velazquez with Beth Phoenix in 2004 Real Name: Beth Phoenix Ring Name: The Fabulous Firebird Phoenix Height: 5’8 Weight: 160 Home: Buffalo, NY Years in Wrestling: 3 Current Affiliations: NeoSpirit Pro (Canada) World Xtreme Wrestling (PA) Far North Wrestling (PA) Past Affiliates: Apocalypse Wrestling Federation (Canada) New England Championship Wrestling (Mass) Ultimate Goals: I hope to make it to WWE as well as become one of the best female wrestlers around. Favorite Color: blue Favorite music group: Metallica or Limp Bizkit Favorite Movie: X Men and X Men II Louis Velazquez: We are here today with one the bright and rising stars on the Indy scene, she went from Amateur to Pro, she hails from Buffalo, NY, she is the “Fabulous Firebird Phoenix” , Phoenix thank you for taking time out for us this month. Beth Phoenix: You are more than welcome, it’s my pleasure Louis Velazquez: Well we are glad to have you here, now Phoenix what got you interested in Pro Wrestling? Beth Phoenix: As the old story goes, I grew up watching wrestling with my grandma. I just got infatuated with it. It influenced my life a lot growing up and a lot of the decisions I made as a young adult. It’s been a very positive influence in my life and I’ve always felt a calling that I was meant to do this. I didn’t choose wrestling, wrestling chose me. Louis Velazquez: Thats profound, I know that you were an amateur grappler early on, but stepping in between the ropes is a different feeling in itself, how did it feel for you? Beth Phoenix: The first time I “stepped into the ring” as a trainee was a lot different from the mats I was used to as an amateur wrestler in high school and with USA Wrestling. I learned respect for the damage that you can do to yourself in pro wrestling right away. It was a humbling and empowering experience that I still feel every time I go out there. Louis Velazquez: I’m glad that you said that because most people think that just anyone can step into the ring, its not that easy, Phoenix who came up with your gimmick? Beth Phoenix: I came up with my own name. It wasn’t so much an influence of Marvel’s popular comic character from the X-Men as it was the symbolism of me leaving my “normal” life behind to start my own journey towards my dreams. The moniker, Fabulous Firebird is a tribute to my affinity for the world’s most affordable muscle car, the Pontiac Firebird. I don’t like to use the word “gimmick” to describe who I am in the ring because “gimmick” limits you to a one dimensional character. I feel that my character is uniquely versatile and allows me to be more than just an angry female…it allows me to fit and adapt to each situation, each match in a way that you might not expect. Louis Velazquez: Was that the first Moniker that you used or were there others? Beth Phoenix: I’ve been Phoenix since the beginning. Louis Velazquez: Consistency, that’s the only thing that allows you to gain a following. What promotions did you work for and who are you affiliated with currently? Beth Phoenix: I’m affiliated with many promotions, however, I have put a focus lately on WXW, run by Afa the Wild Samoan because I believe that they put out a great product. In addition, they have a tremendous ladies roster. I haven’t found another promotion yet with that many solid lady wrestlers. Louis Velazquez: Well Afa has been around for a long time so if anyone knows this business it’s him, so what else do you do beyond wrestling?, what are your hobbies? Beth Phoenix: I have to spend a lot of time in the gym not only for the physical benefits but for my mental health as well. Nothing can relieve stress better than lifting weights. My other hobbies include piano and painting. I grew up a very bored little kid and as a result spent a lot of time practicing piano and painting portraits. Louis Velazquez: I agree, hitting the weights and cardio is the best stress relief. Do you see yourself eventually making it to the corporate structure of the wrestling world, namely the WWE? Or are you content where you are now? Beth Phoenix: I don’t know many Indy wrestlers that would put their bodies through such incredible abuse without a hope of someday making a living out of it. I love wrestling at every level and I think that indy wrestling has a lot to offer in the form of a different product than WWE. However, my goals are straight forward. I started wrestling to reach my goal of earning a job with WWE. I won’t be satisfied until I achieve that goal for myself. Louis Velazquez: I don’t doubt you and I’m sure that you will reach your goals, you have too much drive not to. Most people that get involved with wrestling have other aspirations, do you see yourself going into acting in the future? Beth Phoenix: I think that wrestling incorporates acting into its product quite a bit now. In order to succeed in modern wrestling, you have to be able to act. Acting away from wrestling? I wouldn’t pursue it, but if I was offered something, I would certainly try it. In wrestling the more mainstream notoriety you gain, the better for your wrestling career. If it would help me get farther in wrestling, I’d definitely do it. Louis Velazquez: Well it definitely wouldn’t hurt, its good that you are keeping your doors open just in case. Let me ask your opinion on this topic, over the last decade pro wrestling has changed, the envelope is constantly being pushed which is forcing today’s workers to perform more extreme moves, what are your feelings on this? Beth Phoenix: I don’t think today’s workers are
USA Track & Field Olympian Sharrieffa Barksdale
Sharrieffa Barksdale was born in Harriman, Tennessee The 6th of 7 children, Sharrieffa was always viewed by her family as a strong-willed young lady, who was full of determination and drive to become the best at whatever she chose. This determined attitude was exemplified when she competed for the Harriman High School girls’ track team and single-handedly won the Tennessee High School State track championship. She was also named a high school All-American and identified in .Who’s Who across America. Her determination to be a winner no matter what the odds has shaped her into the woman she is today. Sharrieffa’s commitment to her craft of running was strengthened during her 5:00 a.m. morning runs she made every morning throughout her years in high school. As an all around student athlete, playing basketball, running track and cheerleading, Sharrieffa showed herself to not only be competitive, but one of the best in every endeavor she undertook. She earned a track & field scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee in Knoxville majoring in early childhood education. The work ethic that she demonstrated in high school increased as she made her way through college. She was a standout track star running for the Lady Vols, where she became the first female to run the 400 meter hurdles in under 55 seconds, clinching the American record. She later broke the American record again in the 400 meters hurdles, just missing the world record by a mere eight-tenths of a second! In 1984 she earned a spot on the United States Olympic Team that was held in Los ,Angeles, California. Following the 1984 Olympic Games she was honored by the city of Harriman with the Keys to the City, a street named after her and the local high school track where she competed as a teen was renamed “Sharrieffa Barksdale Track”. Sharrieffa continued to represent the United States in international competitions .around the world for over 10 years Sharrieffa has proven to be a champion on and off the track. Upon her retirement from the sport she began a career in retail sales, where she become an award winning sales associate. While working in retail she also committed herself to working with other aspiring track & field athletes by assisting them in their journey towards Olympic Gold. Additionally, Sharrieffa has reached out to youth in the community through her volunteer efforts as the founder director and lead choreographer of the Kentucky Diamonds and K-D Boys and Top Notch Elite Dance Team. For these youth ages 5-16, she does more than teach various moves to music, she also helps them improve their self-esteem as she teaches youth that “they are somebody” and never let anything stand in their way”. Her program has been in existence for 13 years. Sharrieffa re-entered the world of track and field in 2000 and has not slowed down, not only competing in Masters in 2008 and was award Masters Athlete of the Year through USATF Kentucky Association, but as a Coach Assistant Manager and liaison on several USA National Teams. She has coached collegiate athletes at Florida A&M University, Kentucky State University as well as a personal trainer for various athletes throughout her community Ms. Barksdale has over the years shown that in every aspect of life, a winning attitude goes a long way. She has shared her life story and provides motivation to others to help them unlock their potential when she speaks to groups around the world. Her speech provides powerful motivation for each of us to learn to navigate the obstacles of life in an effort to “Let Nothing Stand in Your Way.” Ms Barksdale is also a motivational speaker and has spoken in many venues on various platform throughout the nation and abroad. She has spoken at prestigious universities, local elementary and high schools, National and International teams as well as local, state and federal government agencies ,Sharrieffa is the proud mother two wonderful children Gentel, who is the 2015 St Augustine University Queen and Javarus, who is one of the most highly recruited football players in the nation.
Filmmaker & Urban Action Showcase Co-Founder Demetrius Angelo
As an Actor, Demetrius recognized the void in Film/TV roles for people of Color especially in the Action Films genre. In response to this void Demetrius founded ASC Productions a full service Film/TV production company producing everything from Fitness Videos to Action Films with emphasis on casting multi-ethnic Actors in principle roles. Having developed a passion for Action Films at a young age, the Action genre became his focus. Unfortunately the majority of talent available had no Martial Arts or little fight experience. With this void in “Action Actors”, Demetrius began devising a system that would teach Actors how to fight “on screen” safely without the full working knowledge of Combat. Demetrius labeled his specialized Screen Fighting system Action Scene Combat™. Demetrius soon founded the NYC Action Actors Academy teaching Action Scene Combat Screen Fighting, Movie Weapons and Tactical Firearms 4 Film to enthusiastic actors seeking a start in the Action genre. The journey of being an independent production company and Action Acting school is often challenging but with every challenge comes promotion and when the challenges of Distribution became an issue, the creation of ASC Troopers Touch Entertainment became the answer. Demetrius’s ASC Productions partnered with longtime friend and colleague of the Martial Arts, La’Mard J Wingster of Troopers Touch Films. In this partnership we offer the full production services of: Directing, Writing, Editing, Cinematography, Fight Choreography, Action Directing, Graphic Design, Marketing and Distribution. Recognizing both the need and importance for diversity in the Action Film genre Demetrius set out to create a platform that would encourage, inspire, recognize and empower the Urban Poly-Ethnic Action Community. As a result the Urban Action Showcase and Expo was manifested having the initiative of diversity with the protocols of information, education, facilitation and exposure setting itself apart from all other festivals as the mecca of the action genre, celebrating and featuring the urban community. About the UASE: Demetrius Angelo is the Founder and Executive Producer of The Urban Action Showcase and Expo (UASE). The UASE is the premier all action entertainment platform celebrating diversity and honoring the multicultural achievements within the blockbuster Action genre including Adventure, Fantasy, Grindhouse, Action Horror, Sci-Fi, and Supernatural content. The UASE is the only all Action entertainment platform offering both fan and professional experiences through its International Action Film Festival, Expo and Distribution platforms. The Urban Action Showcase International Action Film Festival welcomes Animation and Live Action Features, Shorts, TV Pilots, Web Series and Action Scenes in all aspects of the multifaceted Action genre. Our International Action Film Awards celebrate the past, present and future achievements within the genre. The Action Expo platform allows content creators, production and entertainment companies as well as other industry-related vendors the opportunity to showcase their content, goods and services to a multicultural niche target market. The Expo is also the platform in which we execute our educational, facilitation and exposure protocols through our celebrity panels, workshops and master classes. The UASE currently facilitates distribution through its relationships with Vimeo and Amazon platforms. The UASE endeavors to recognize, promote, and facilitate participation of multicultural Filmmakers, Actors and Industry Professionals specifically targeted to the Action genre. The UASE recognizes entertainment professionals by honoring excellence in various aspects of filmmaking, acting and content creation. We promote them through various media outlets, facilitate distribution opportunities, and encourage new interest through the building of strong networking communities, panels, workshops, and key sponsorship participation. The Blockbuster Action genre has been and remains the most profitable and entertaining format. It keeps us all at the edge of our seats. Action content such as Arrow, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, The Flash, and the billion dollar blockbuster Furious 7, are prime examples of how diversity fosters success. By focusing on the thrill and excitement of the Action genre and recognizing the need for integration, the UASE sets itself apart from other festival platforms as the only one of its kind! The purpose of the UASE is to ultimately see an increase in ethnic heroic principal characters in film and television, increase the development of content and expand distribution platforms reflecting multicultural images and interests as it pertains to the multifaceted Action genre. Over the past 2 year we’ve had the pleasure of honoring such industry pioneers and rising stars as: Gloria Hendy (Black Belt Jones, James Bond) Cynthia Rothrock (Rage of Honor, Lady Dragon, China O’Brien) Fred “The Hammer” Williamson (Three the Hard Way, One Down Two to Go) Don The Dragon Wilson (Ring of Fire, BloodFist, Redemption) Michael Jai White(Spawn, Blood and Bone,Arrow) Kelly Hu (X-Men 2, Martial Law, Arrow) Isaac Florentine (Director: Ninja, Ninja 2, The Power Rangers) Ron Van Clief (The Black Dragon, Super Weapon) Marrese Crump (The Protector 2, Wrong Side of Town) TJ Storm (Black Cobra, Punisher 2) Taimak (The Last Dragon) Ernie Reyes Jr. (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtules, The Run Down) Hong Kong’s Urban Action stars such as Bobby Samuels and Michael Woods Websites: www.urbanactionshowcase.com http://www.asctrooperstouchent.com/ www.twitter.com/urbanactionfest www.facebook.com/UrbanActionShowcase
Recording Artist and Actress Stephanie Gerard
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-22_stephaniegerard_interviewucw.mp3 Stephanie Gerard is a Singer, actress, environmental activist and animal lover… she is French-Mexican, raised in Canada… Lover of the Beatles music, she accomplished her dream of recording a Tribute Album of the Liverpool fab four, with the approval from London by their Music Publishing Company… Her Album “Singing The Beatles” is now one of the most listened and sold CD’s in the major music stores in Mexico. She has completed a total of 9 albums and all of them have become top selling records in Mexico and Latin America. Her presence is fresh, modern and full of energy… She has stepped on all types of stages across the world, from small showcases in shopping centers, night clubs, massive events, TV and radio shows, all the way to the “Teatro de La Ciudad” located in Mexico, City and the famous “House Of Blues” on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, CA. She speaks 5 languages, she’s a ballet and hip-hop dancer and practices yoga. Stephanie has combined her singing with her acting career, (she studied Dramatic Art at the Center of Artistic Education “CEA”, for 3 years in Mexico City), she has appeared in numerous soap operas for the TV Network “Televisa”, such as “La Madrastra”, “Mujer, Casos de La Vida Real”, “La Fea Mas Bella” and many more… She has done theater and classic plays such as “The Cherry Orchard”, “Ce Formidable Bordel” and “The Physicists”. Various commercials for important brands like Tasti-Lee, Colgate, Axe, Fiat and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/ Ram, Freeway Insurance, Sealy. Also appeared in Films such as “The Desire of Ages” (Golden Eagle Films / Myers Media), “In Da Cut” (NBC Universal / Biblical Films), “Pecado Mortal” (Mundo FOX / Sony Music / Nitro Group), “The Chemist” (Throwing Star Films / Al Bravo Studios), among others. “Stephanie is an amazing person, she isn’t afraid of taking chances in the pursuit of her dreams and is what inspires people, you can expect to see a lot more of her in Hollywood as her career is set to skyrocket,” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.stephaniegerard.com www.stephaniegerard.com.mx www.Twitter.com/GerardStephanie
FEMALE ROCKER ALEXX CALISE
2015 Interview https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-21_alexxcalise_interviewucw2015.mp3 2010 Interview https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-06-12_alexxcalise_ucwradio.mp3 “I don’t feel sorry for being who I am”, proclaims sharp-tongued singer, guitarist and songwriter, Alexx Calise. Delivering a sound that is both fresh and uniquely her own, Calise combines crunchy rock riffs with probing lyrics and hooky pop melodies. Told throughout most of her career to not play guitar as much or at all, and to pursue a more “proven” musical direction, Calise instead chose to focus even more so on her instrument, practicing some 5-6 hours a day, and follow the only direction she knew how to—her own. Countless film and TV placements and millions of Youtube hits later, Calise has proven that her torchy vocals, impressive guitar chops and heart-and-soul lyrics are enough to make an incredible international impact, even as a completely independent artist. Calise’s hit song “Cry”–which became a web phenomenon almost overnight (spawning hundreds of covers, tributes and dance routines) after it appeared on the Lifetime show “Dance Moms”—-has gone on to sell well over 50,000 downloads independently and charted at #64 on the iTunes rock chart. Its official video features “Dance Moms” star, Maddie Ziegler, who danced to the song in several episodes of the show. Calise also recently performed her song “Survive” from her latest “AC3” EP on both “Dance Moms,” and its spinoff show, “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition”. In addition to music, Calise is also pursuing an acting career, and has appeared in a series of national Guitar Center commercials, a Disney “Science of Imagineering” DVD series, and in a Discovery Channel documentary entitled “The Science of Sex Appeal”. Ever-growing and ever-changing, the effervescent Calise is continuing to make waves one small step at a time, currently penning songs for a variety of major artists and writing songs toward her next album. Calise’s music has appeared on a multitude of different shows such as “Dance Moms” (Lifetime), “Dance Moms: Miami” (Lifetime), “Last Call With Carson Daly” (NBC), “The Voice” (NBC), Audrina” (Vh1), “Tough Love” (Vh1), “NY Ink” (TLC), “Next” (MTV), “10 on Top” (MTV), “One Tree Hill” (CW), “Texas Women” (CMT) and in the upcoming feature film, “LA, I Hate You” starring Malcolm McDowell and William Forsythe. “Alexx is a passionate and driven person, beyond music, she doesn’t rest on her talent she actually puts the work in and in my opinion she is destined for greatness so having her on the show was a definite privilege, music fans need to keep an eye on her career as its on the move” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez – 2015 Websites: www.alexxcalise.net www.twitter.com/alexxcalise www.instagram.com/alexxcalise www.youtube.com/alexxcalisemusic
Former Harlem Globetrotter Harold “Lefty” Williams
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-14_haroldleftywilliams_interviewucw.mp3 Born Harold Williams to parents Harold and Rita Gethers, Lefty grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. Raised with 7 other brothers and sisters, Lefty learned early that if he wanted something it wasn’t going to come easily; there would be many days of sacrifice and hard work. It was also early in his life that there sprouted two loves in Lefty: his love for basketball and his love for the Lord. These loves taught him early that in order to get what was divinely meant for him, he had to be obedient and follow God’s will. It has been obedience to God and the favor of God over his life that has carried Lefty. Lefty credits who he is today to the many growing pains he has faced in life. From his younger brother’s fight with seizures resulting in a coma, to his mother’s triumph over ovarian cancer, to his wife’s fight for her life after a miscarriage, Lefty has learned the importance of holding on to the promises of God. Accomplishing much in his basketball career such as scoring of his 1000 points and 985 rebounds in high school in only three years of varsity basketball, earning defensive player of the year twice during college, and signing a professional contract after attending a Division 3 school (which many deemed impossible); Lefty proclaims one of his defining moments was being asked to join the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters! He made Globetrotter history by becoming the first left handed showman to sign with the team. After his departure from the Globetrotters, ESPN, the world’s largest sports network, called his trade “from the losingest team of all time to the winningest team of all time… a deal straight out of Ripleys Believe it or Not” The article by Tom Friend, gave the world a glimpse of the story about the man that is Harold “Lefty” Williams. Off the basketball court, Lefty found great inspiration from his maternal grandfather Thomas Williams. Because of his grandfather, Lefty has tried to live his life in such a way that it would be motivational to all who crossed his path. His desire to live such a life started with his experiences as a peer educator in his home town of Jersey City, NJ. and has transcended itself in his role as a husband and father. Lefty has often said that Shyneefa, his wife and childhood friend, is one of the reasons that he is who he is today. She has shared in both his failures and triumphs, walking along side him through it all. Through her, God has gifted Lefty his daughter, Kiara and his son, Elisha; both whom Lefty calls shinning stars in his life. It is his family, that Lefty often says is the reason he does what he continues to do. His desires to motivate are also visible from his travels to 24 countries around the world as a professional basketball player, in his music, as a motivational speaker as well as in his current position as a youth pastor. HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Working hard to be successful is something Lefty continues to strive for. When asked how did you get to be so successful he answered, “When preparation meets opportunity that equals success. You can’t take no for an answer. If I stopped working hard every time someone said no to me or when a door closed in my face I never would have made it. We must remember A Delay is Not a Denial” The game of basketball has opened up many windows of opportunity for Lefty. From television to radio to printed media, Lefty is no stranger to headlines. He has twice been featured in Black Athlete the Magazine as well as in ESPN, the world’s largest sports network. Whether speaking on local radio stations or interviewing for television shows to be aired around the world, Lefty knows the power of one’s words. Using his words to educate, motivate and uplift, Lefty uses his experience with the Globetrotters, as well as other professional teams, as a platform to reach the masses. Lefty continues to travel North America speaking on the topics that are most prominent in the area of which he is visiting. These topics range from alcohol & substance abuse, bullying, abstinence & pregnancy prevention to goal setting, time management, healthy living and so much more! In his travels, Lefty exhibits and teaches outstanding ball handling trick techniques and various ball handling drills. One of the things he enjoys most is his Dare 2 Dream Basketball Camp, which teaches kids based on his 6 point programatic thrust. These points are: mind, body soul, education, accountability/determination and enthusiasim. Henry Ford once said “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” This is what Lefty holds at the core of everything he does with the youth! Lefty enjoyed his 7 year professional career, which included his time as a Harlem Globetrotter, and still considers his self an Ambassador of good will. Websites: www.leftywilliams.org http://www.harlemdreams.net/ www.twitter.com/leftywilliams42 www.facebook.com/leftywilliams42 www.instagram.com/leftywilliams42 https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/harold-lefty-williams/id514597131
International Speaker, Author & Mr. America Tom Terwilliger
2020 Tom & Dawn Terwilliger https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-19-UCWRadio_TomDawnTerwilliger_11182020.mp3 2015 Tom Terwilliger https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-08_tomterwilliger_interviewucw.mp3 If there has ever been an ambassador for fitness and healthy living, it would be #1 bestselling author, international speaker, and former Mr. America, Tom Terwilliger. Tom has spent the past 30 years practicing, advocating and preaching the benefits of exercise and performance living. Known as “The Achievement Mentor” Tom Terwilliger is a leading authority on the Science of Achievement. The one time New York health club owner now president of Coaching Leadership Excellence has had the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with countless individuals seeking guidance, motivation and leadership. Celebrities such as Regis Philbin, Cindy Crawford, Eddie Murphy, Gregory Hines, Ted Lange, Howard Stern and others have experienced the benefits of training one-on-one with Tom. For sixteen years Tom hosted and co-directed and produced the nationally syndicated cable television show, MuscleSport USA on FOX Network which earned him a prestigious Telly Award in 2001. Tom also hosted and co-produced with his wife and fitness model, Dawn Terwilliger (Mrs. Metropolitan 2009), the One On One with Terwilliger Fitness talk radio show on AM 760 and hosted the fitness segment on News Radio 850 KOA that aired in the Rocky Mountain region for six years. In his efforts to reach one-on-many, Tom spends a good deal if his time traveling North America, Europe and Asia teaching his lifestyle techniques and conscious Leap of Faith process. Tom’s unique and inspiring story of pulling himself from the world of drug and alcohol abusing outlaw biker to National Bodybuilding Champion (Mr. America) and high achiever has inspired countless others to reach for their own limitless potential. International speaker, radio talk show personality, TV show host, entrepreneur and author; Tom is a maven of media. His book, 7 Rules of Achievement was a finalist for the 2010 Ethan Award – honoring entrepreneurial authors. Websites: www.tomterwilliger.com www.twitter.com/tomterwilliger www.facebook.com/tomterwilligernow www.youtube.com/tomterwilliger
Actress and Recording Artist Nina Bergman
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-07_ninabergman_interviewucw.mp3 Nina Bergman is an actress, singer, songwriter and model. She was born in Denmark and is the granddaughter of Russian actor Pavel Kadochnikov. Nina spent her early childhood traveling around Europe with her Russian Gypsy grandparents. After her parents divorced she lived with various family members. At 14 she received a scholarship to the musical theatre school Urdang Acedemy in London. A year later she found herself in Moscow attending the Bolshoi Theatre. From there she went to NYC and got accepted to NYU- TISH School of the Arts studying musical theatre. She got her first agent and began booking various jobs in plays, movies, commercials, modeling and also started singing in underground bands. Being an adrenaline junkie, she found herself making extra money as an amateur boxer which later on helped her book Wonder Woman directed by Jesse V Johnson starring Timothy V Murphy and Marina Sirtis. She also played a cold hearted killer in The Wayshower starring Peter Stormare and Eric Roberts. Her other work in LA includes starring opposite actors like John Malkovich, David Arquette, Vivica Fox, Jesse Metcalfe. She has done numerous skits on “The Late Late show”, “The Tonight Show” and hosting various shows like “E!Entertainment”, “Fuse”, and The Grammys as Trophy Girl. Her reality show credits include: Battleground Earth with Tommy Lee and Ludacris and Hollywoodfruer the Danish acclaimed TV show. A passion for the stage drew her back to her roots as she performed in various plays such as The Cherry Orchard with A Noise Within and her favorite, the portrayal of Marlene Dietrich. Her theatrical agent introduced her to Paul Anka who shortly after began managing her music career and helped her sign a 6 album contract to Warner Bros Record with Rob Cavallo. They called her new solo project N.I.N.A. Previously she released an EP with her band “Dead Rose Beauty” and toured with acts like Meat Loaf and Scorpions and several others. She worked on soundtracks for Lions Gates Movies singing the theme song for “Catacombs” and “Repo the Genetic Opera”. She sang the end title song in “Black Limousine” and was the voice on the soundtrack for “All about Her”. Additionally, she performed live for the World Series and the NCAA College Football Season. Music Videos: She starred in Gnarls Barkley’s video “Gone Daddy Gone”, Sick Puppies video “All the Same” and Trey Sonz “Foreigner” Print ads and Commercials She has been seen in over 30 commercials and hundreds of print campaigns. Ranging from La Perla to Apple Computer, Sprite, Nike and her well known Nature Valley and Dos Equis with the Most Interesting Man in the World. Websites: www.ninabergman.com www.n-i-n-a.com www.twitter.com/ninabergman www.facebook.com/ninabergman www.tumblr.com/ninabergman www.instagram.com/ninabergman
Fitness Pro & Denver Nuggets Strength Coach Steve Hess
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-03_stevehess_interviewucw.mp3 Keeping the Nuggets in top physical shape is the job of Steve Hess, the team’s assistant coach/strength and conditioning. Hess oversees the team’s weight training, conditioning and nutritional programs. He designed and arranged the Nuggets’ weight room in the Pepsi Center and also designed functional pieces unique to the Denver Nuggets. In his 19th season with the Nuggets, Hess creates and administers individual workout programs for each player throughout the entire year. He spends the majority of the off-season working with Nugget players and other professional athletes, overseeing every aspect of their workout programs. He pushes them to reach their peak physical condition. Hess is one of six trainers worldwide who sits on the Under Armour training council. He also sits on the advisory board for both Mancakes high-Protein Pancake mix and Crosscore 180 Rotational Bodyweight Training System. In addition, Hess has been featured on NBA Inside Stuff, All-Access with Ahmad Rashad, NBATV and The Eating Network. He also has his own workout segment on the Altitude Sports & Entertainment network. A graduate of Ithaca College (N.Y.), Hess received a master’s degree in physical education with an emphasis on sports medicine and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science fitness and cardiac rehabilitation in ’91. Hess became a Muscle Activation Techniques (M.A.T) specialist in 2013 and just completed his M.A.T mastery certification in 2015. Follow Steve Hess: www.twitter.com/stevehess1 www.instagram.com/steve13hess
Model, Actress and Filmmaker Deborah Funes
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-02_deborahfunes_interviewucw.mp3 Deborah was born in Argentina. She had her first experiences in modeling and acting at the age of six. Ten years later, she performed as a singer in a concert and swimwear model in fashion shows.A gifted student, she also pursued opportunities as a creative painter and promotional model for big brands like Coca Cola, Benetton,etc. She also appeared for first time as a performer in a top TV show called “The Show of Tinelli”. Deborah graduated with a Teacher’s degree and soon after, she started a career in Advertising. During university she was involve in production of TV Commercials and music videos. However, the world of acting and film making were always in her heart and she developed her capacities from acting to directing and producing, molding an integral professional. After she graduated from the American University John F. Kennedy, Deborah moved to Miami FL. Few months after her arrival, she was approached by an Italian company to be their exclusive lingerie model providing her with great exposure in the US. Soon thereafter she began appearing in videos and TV commercials for “MTV”, “Playboy TV” and Latin American TV Shows. In 2005, the original Baywatch producers chose her from hundreds of models for a pilot TV series.This experience was the beginning of her acting career in the American market. In 2007, she had supporting roles in many short films and her first feature film called “Scream Farm”. Since then, Deborah has been performing as lead and supporting actress in many feature films and TV series of all type of genres. Portrayed characters from different nationalities like Russian, Italian, Swedish, German and Latin. Her credits exemplify her versatility and they include: “Wisp” (2013), “Jebadiah’s Axe” (2013), “Disciples” (2014), “Bikini Swamp Girl Massacre”(2014), “You Found Me” (2015) and many others. Today beside acting and modeling she is also writing and producing her own feature films. Projects that she had in mind for a long time. Web Links: Official Website: www.deborahfunes.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/DEBORAH-FUNES/74850451356?fref=tsTWITTER: https://twitter.com/DeborahActressINSTAGRAM:https://instagram.com/deborahfunes/
IFBB Women’s Physique Pro Karina Nascimento
Karina Nascimento is a Brazilian born bodybuilder / fitness model turned physique competitor. She moved to Texas in 1986 and that is where her love for bodybuilding started at the age of 16. Running track and playing volleyball made her want to be more defined and want to change her body from the average look. After many endeavors in her childhood, she decided to change her life completely and soon met her first trainer, Herman Steele, in Arlington, Texas. He changed her body into a work of art. Soon she started to win overall championships in bodybuilding shows. Karina loved the challenge of working out and competing. After such a successful amateur career, Karina went back to Brazil and was awarded her Pro Card by Brazilian IFBB President, Alexander Pagnani. Karina loves representing both Brazil and the United States in bodybuilding. In 2003, Karina was invited to compete in the prestigious Ms. International, the ladies’ event competition at the Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic. As a rookie, she placed an incredible third place, beating several highly ranked professional bodybuilders. Her career sky-rocketed. Even though Karina loves bodybuilding, she is at heart a “fashion girl.” This motivated her to pursue a fitness and modeling career rather than the hardcore bodybuilding path. She met her husband at that time and decided to enter the figure division in the IFBB. For the next seven years, Karina devoted herself to being a great mom. She has three children: Kristina (7), Teddy (5), and Gabriella (2). Now she is ready to compete again; this time in the women’s physique division. With her great looks and well honed physique, she will be certainly be at the top of the field for a long time to come. See more of Karina at karinabrazilpro.com
Frankie aka Future Legend: The Story Behind the Brand
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_futurelegend_interviewucw.mp3 This is the story of not just a Clothing Brand but a movement, Frankie aka Future Legend shares with us the background of the creation of Underground Clown and its subsequent best selling brand Future Legend. He started the Underground Clown brand in 2008 in honor of his dear friend Cory Pelzer who was murdered in 2001. Cory was shot on a crowded NYC bus on his way home from work at the Kings Plaza Mall in Brooklyn, to this day his murder goes unsolved and cold, thru the UGC Clothing brand he pays Homage to his friend and donates all the profits from sales to various charities. The creation of “FUTURE LEGEND” was just an idea he had and he put a simple shirt together in distressed font that said Future Legend. The shirt would just always sellout, Pro Boxer Paulie Malignaggi and Frankie met through a mutual friend in 2009 and gave him the chance to tell him the story behind the brand and Paul has worn the shirt through numerous Title wins and defenses since then. They are now the best of friends and business partners along with former UFC and current Bellator MMA fighter Phil Baroni, they are all inspired to do good give back and make a difference through the success of their brand. For more information : www.futurelegend.co www.futurelegend.com www.twitter.com/1futurelegend www.twitter.com/theugc
Comedian Rocky LaPorte: NBC’s Last Comic Standing
Rocky LaPorte’s appeal comes from his everyman, streetwise style of comedy. Delivering laughs in his trademark Brooklyn accent, he has become one of the most sought after comedians in the country, and he is currently appearing on the new season of NBC’s Last Comic Standing! A former Chicago truck driver and dock worker, Rocky has accumulated a slew of performances throughout his career, including being a featured comic on Showtime‘s The Godfathers of Comedy, a special starring five of America’s most hilarious Italian-American comics. On the big screen, he has been seen in two Tim Allen movies – Crazy on the Outside and The Shaggy Dog. Rocky traveled with Drew Carey to Iraq to entertain the troops and was seen on the Showtime special Patriot Act: A Jeffrey Ross Home Movie. Rocky has filmed his own Comedy Central Presents special and wasvoted the network’s second most popular comedian in a nationwide poll. He has performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and appeared on A&E‘s Evening At The Improv and VH1‘s Stand-Up Spotlight, along with sitcom appearances on Cheers and his own NBC pilot called the Rocky LaPorte Show. Rocky has opened for the likes of Garry Shandling, Drew Carey, Tim Allen, Louie Anderson, Hootie and the Blowfish and the Righteous Brothers, just to name a few, and his clean, blue-collar style of comedy continues to increase in popularity as he travels the country. “Rocky is a talented comedian, he’s a natural, I see him having his own sitcom on one of the major networks in the near future, he has that something extra that pulls in a broad audience and will have longevity,” – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.rockylaporte.com www.twitter.com/rockylaporte
Comedian Actor, Write Dante “The Comic”
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_dantethecomic_interviewucw.mp3 When he was a kid growing up in Ridgecrest, CA, Dante knew he wanted to be a comedian.. Dante is now one of the top headlining comedians in the United States, appearing on numerous television shows and in films, and appearing to sold-out crowds across the country, as well as making regular stops each year at U.S. military bases around the world, entertaining the troops in every branch of the Armed Forces. He has performed for the US troops more than any other comedian since Bob Hope. Dante has been a comedian since 1986. Most people know him as a cast member on season 5 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. On Last Comic Standing he received every audience favorite award and got the first standing ovation at the Semi-finals. He has been honored as the recipient of several comedy awards, including the $10,000 grand prize on America’s Funniest People on ABC; he also still holds the record for winning the most comedy awards ever presented to a single comedian at the BET Comedy Awards. Dante was even the winner of Los Angeles’ “Funniest Black Comic in LA” award… we’re still not sure how he even qualified for that one! Beginning his career in San Diego at the La Jolla Comedy Store, Dante has since made a name for himself as one of the few comedians working today who are able to cross over to any crowd and still be just as funny. He is the rare sort of performer who can perform at an urban comedy club, do another set in front of a Latino crowd later that evening, and then still bring down the house at a Beverly Hills country club benefit show after that, all in the same night… and he has! While he travels across the country, as well as abroad, today Dante calls Los Angeles his home, where you can catch him regularly at The Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. In his comedy journey, Dante has had the honor and pleasure of working with some of the greats in the entertainment business, including Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Milton Berle, BB King, Santana & Macy Grey… as well as Weird Al Yankovich (who may or may not qualify as one of the “greats” – but he IS a heck of a lot of fun!). Dante can be seen in Byron Allan’s ENTERTAINERS as well as in the book I KILLED. He co-wrote and co-produced the Schticky Commercial and the movie The InAPPropriate Comedy for Vince Offer The Shamwow guy. He produced the The Gay List Comedy DVD and Dante’s One Man Comedy Hour. He is a writer for E! Fashion Police. With his sold-out club shows & recent television appearances, as well as his almost nightly standing ovations, Dante is one act that’s hard to miss! “Dante is one of those comedic talents that is multifaceted , I guess more of a triple threat, not only is his funny but he is an actor and is a screenplay writer but that’s not all you will find him directing and behind the camera as well, he is one definite entertainer to keep an eye out for as he expands his horizons, – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.dantethecomic.com www.twitter.com/dantethecomic
Co-Host of Lords of the Car Hoards Chuck Palumbo
Chuck Palumbo’s life as a motorcycle and car builder began in Providence, Rhode Island at the age of 5, helping his father replace the 3.5 horsepower motor in his mini bike with a 5 horse Tecumseh. At 6’ 6”, 280 pounds, Chuck’s size and drive to be the best took him from the Navy to a college basketball scholarship to becoming a six-time World Tag Team Champion in professional wrestling in the WWE and WCW. Throughout his career, Chuck has never lost his passion for building, and in 2005 he opened CP Kustoms to work on bikes and cars during his free time from wrestling. When he retired from wrestling in 2008, he made CP Kustoms his full time business. As a self-professed “motorcycle and muscle car addict” living in the San Diego area, it was only a matter of time before Chuck crossed paths with hot rod legend Rick Dore; together in 2013, they launched SLAM. Chuck shares Rick’s passion for classic rides and fanatical attention to detail. “I pride myself on being a craftsman. One man, one set of hands.” “Chuck is one of those guys that is not only looking to do good for himself but if he can do good for others that motivates him even more, his TV career is just warming up and I personally see ‘Lords of the Car Hoards’ as a catapult to some much greater things”, – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.cpkustoms.com www.twitter.com/chuckpalumbo
The Healthy Irishman, Chef Gavan Murphy
About Chef Gavan Murphy in his own words. My name is Gavan Murphy. I am a chef specializing in healthy cuisine and this is my story: I hail from the Emerald Isle, land of greenery, sheep, pubs and Guinness. Currently I live in Los Angeles, land of sunshine, traffic, movie stars and paparazzi. I’m most often asked what the #*%! does an Irish guy know about food, let alone healthy food? Had I been asked that as a kid I wouldn’t have had a clue, except for the fact that I just loved food. I pretty much ate all I was given plus anything else I could get my hands on, especially anything that was sugary and sweet. I didn’t grow up on fast food as the kids do now-a-days, nor did I grow up in restaurants. I grew up around the dinner table eating Mum’s creations. My Mum cooked the typical Irish fare of meat and potatoes every night, yet that was not the problem. The problem came in the form of cakes, biscuits, sweets and fizzy drinks, all of which were accessible in and around school. All of those sweets made me a chunky monkey. And to top it off I wasn’t into exercise and sports. It wasn’t so much that I was lazy, I just really didn’t want to have to get changed in front of others. I was embarrassed. I was the guy hiding in the toilets during P.E. class or the one wearing a T-shirt in the pool. Being a teenager is tough enough, being a tubby teenager is no picnic. Moving swiftly on. I became more aware of the type of food I was eating once I got into my mid-teens because I actually started playing sports and in conjunction with eating better, I began losing the weight. My love for food never dissipated, yet thankfully my sweet tooth did. Instead I began developing a new appreciation for eating proper food, which kept with me through my college years in Dublin. After college I headed off to Martha’s Vineyard for the summer where I got my first restaurant job washing dishes. I loved it. The hustle and bustle of the kitchen was electrifying. I worked hard but the chefs worked harder. I knew just from watching them that was what I wanted to do. Upon my return to Ireland I wasted no time and headed to the lush countryside of Cork to train at the infamous Ballymaloe Cookery School. Situated in the middle of a 100 acre farm, half of which is organic today, Ballymaloe was a pioneer in sustainable cooking. What was grown on the farm and what was locally reared is what we used in our cooking and what we ate. I learned the importance of eating fresh, farm to table food and the importance of using quality ingredients including meats. Pairing this knowledge with the way I grew up eating (I’m talking proper homemade food eaten at the dinner table NOT including the sugary stuff) is where my style and flavour were born. In 2000, after working in restaurants throughout Ireland and London, my journey landed me across the pond to sunny California–I couldn’t handle anymore of the Irish winters! Los Angeles, being the mecca of health and fitness (I saw that at Gold’s Gym) was the perfect destination to continue my career in healthy cooking. I began working for a number of prestigious L.A. based catering companies and was hired as a consulting chef on the Body-for-Life Program for EAS, a multinational sports and nutrition company. At that time Cindy Crawford was following the BFL food program so guess who was hired to be her personal chef cooking healthy nutritious meals? That would be me. Timing couldn’t have been better. With that experience under my belt I ultimately transitioned into working as a full time personal chef specializing in cooking healthy meals. I was fortunate enough to find true love at my local pub (I might be healthy but I am Irish!) and boy did I get lucky. Not only did I find a great missus but I also gained a great business partner. We started out with a small food blog called–wait for it–The Healthy Irishman (cheeky but spot on) showcasing healthy recipes. That idea snowballed into The Healthy Irishman, Inc., our stellar catering company here in tinsel town, which I’m very proud to be a part of with my missus. I’m also proud to say my recipes have been published in books and magazines and I’m a regular contributor to other websites. You name it, I do it, all in the sake of healthy eating. And I still find time to provide recipes for our blog, which is now a part of this site. Not too shabby for a small town Irishman! Of course I have bigger goals but my focus and passion remain the same with everything I do: to show people that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated and healthy food doesn’t mean bland or boring. We’re advocates of buying local, seasonal and sustainable foods and I encourage people to get away from the convenient “out of a box” food and to get back to the basics of home cooking. As far as I’m concerned, it doesn’t have to be flashy, just damn tasty! And that’s what an Irishman knows about healthy food. Websites: www.gavanmurphy.com www.twitter.com/healthyirishman
Book Illustrator Ashley Teets
Award-winning author and illustrator Ashley Teets is a 2012 summa cum laude graduate of Alderson-Broaddus College where she earned a B.F.A focusing on visual art with a minor in creative writing. After completing two semesters of graduate work at West Virginia University Ashley continued her graduate study through the Simmons College satellite graduate program at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts. She has illustrated multiple award winning children’s books that include five Mom’s Choice Awards, an Indie Book and an Indie Excellence Award, an International Book Award, a USA News Best Book Award and Creative Child Magazine Awards. Ashley is also a portrait artist and muralist. Websites: http://headlinebooks.com/http://www.headlinekids.com/http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Penny-Tubs-Waterfall/dp/0938467980/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1404858944&sr=8-6&keywords=Penny+and+tubs www.ashleyteetsillustration.com
Recording Artist/Actress DiLee
Di Lee is a media artist in Los Angeles, California. Her strong sense of culture and heritage comes from being a half Chinese, and half Italian, American. She hopes that her music and poetry bring together and transcend all cultural & national borders in the celebration of this beautiful thing called life, that we all share together around the world. Di Lee is from a close knit family and says she has an eastern way of thinking. Taking lines from her original poetry she then began writing and producing music and is now combining fashion, photo-art, music and acting into a cohesive and creative package. To Di Lee, being a positive role model is a responsibility she takes seriously. Part of that responsibility is admitting you are human and touching peoples’ lives. Di Lee stands for goodness, equality, love, and describes herself as a soft warrior. Being a soft warrior to her means she can show compassion and love, but also is able to stand up and fight for what she believes in. Websites: www.dileemusic.com www.dilee.tv
Rising Star: The Artist Borbay
2020 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-09-UCWRadio_Borbay_11092020.mp3 2014 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_borbay_interviewucw.mp3 Borbay is a self-represented artist, living and thriving in the vibrant city of Manhattan. Collected globally and featured by an impressive breadth of revered news outlets, Borbay has created a successful business model outside of the ‘art world’ you read about. Time Out New York named him their Most Creative New Yorker. On June 4, 2014 — Zack O’Malley Greenburg’s second book, “Michael Jackson, Inc.” (Simon & Schuster, Atria) launched and rocketed to #1 on Amazon in Business and Leadership — Borbay painted the cover. He defaced Andy Warhol’s Marilyn and Major League Baseball hung it up in their Fan Cave. He knew Forbes’ Hip Hop Cash Kings list before Forbes did. His collages incorporating New York Post headlines became a New York Post headline. He’s painting the Guggenheim each year for 20 years, and intends to show the series in the Guggenheim itself. Borbay is being celebrated by everyone from BBC World to the Wall Street Journal Japan. Borbay’s creations, with their chasm-deep detail and painstaking process, have garnered the artist a large following from Manhattan to Milan, and his Warhol-esque willingness to mine pop imagery has earned the admiration of fans, educators and celebrities alike. With a pre-art résumé that includes everything from advertising to Reality TV (to, yes, working for Donald Trump), it’s no wonder that he’s lauded as one of the most game changing players emerging in the contemporary art scene. Borbay lives in Gramercy with his beloved Wife Erin and Daughter Coraline. Websites: www.borbay.com https://www.instagram.com/borbay 2021 Interview
The Toughest Nerd in MMA, Kickboxer Maureen “BABY FACE” Riordon
Maureen “Baby Face” Riordon began training in January of 2010 when she joined FusBoxe Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness in Westminster, Colorado. She did not have any athletic experience when she started out, but found herself in her first grappling tournament only three short months later. she became addicted to the sport at once and went on to claim seven gold medals in the next six months, and took both first and second place in nationally ranked tournaments. After numerous fights falling through for every reason under the sun, her first fight finally came through for her in June of 2011 for Ring of Fire’s Muay Thai Mayhem against Allison Lantz. Since then she has had ten amateur fights in total, ranging across MMA, kickboxing, boxing, and Sanda and she made her professional kickboxing debut May 3rd for Glory Sports Internationa. In March 2014 she signed a multi-fight deal with RFA: Resurrection Fighting Alliance where she will be making her professional MMA debut later this summer! “Maureen is the toughest nerd in MMA, she brings intelect, courage, skills and a goal to keep giving back to the community, using her mma fame to help bring attention to TEAM BABY FACE. You have to love the dedication in more ways than one. I do see her becoming a true force in the world of female kickboxing and mma so keep an eye on this rising star.” – Louis Velazquez – UCW Radio Show Host For more information : www.maureenriordonmma.com www.twitter.com/babyfacemma www.facebook.com/maureenbabyfaceriordon www.instagram.com/babyfacemma
Invicta Fighting Championships Co-Founder & CEO Shannon Knapp
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_shannonknapp_interviewucw.mp3 “If Dana White is the undisputed KING of the world of MMA then hands down Invicta Fighting Championships CEO Shannon Knapp is the QUEEN. She has done what no other person had the vision nor nerve to do and just 2 1/2 years later Shannon has made a big statement as well as her mark on the world of MMA. In my opinion I see Invicta FC as being the female fighter equivalent to the UFC and I see Shannon Knapp as being the second most important person on the frontline of the MMA world.” – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Host. Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship All Pro Women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp. Invicta FC is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors, identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. For more information : www.invictafc.com www.twitter.com/invictafights www.facebook.com/invictafights www.youtube.com/user/invictafc UFC Fight Pass: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass
Action Film Star Olivier Gruner
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_oliviergruner_interviewucw.mp3 Following his graduation from the rugged training of the French Special Forces (similar to the U.S. Navy SEALS), former soldier-turned-action star Olivier Gruner applied the skills he had developed while in uniform both to an extensive list of dynamic screen roles and the intense preparation for the look and the moves each one has required along the way. Gruner joined his country’s elite Special Forces Commando Marines when he was only 17 years old. “They taught us to never give up, no matter what,” he recalls. “They put us through intense training courses; there’s a lot of selection – only one in a thousand guys makes it,” he observed at the end of the Nineties when we caught up with him about his career. Using Combat Skills to Break Through into Screen Career During his two years of commando service, Gruner acquired a formal knowledge of martial arts and hand-to-hand combat. “It’s easy to have a gun and just to shoot people,” he points out. “I was more impressed with what you could do with your bare hands.” Early on, physical training follows a fairly conventional routine for the French servicemen: “Running, back-packing, push-ups, rope work, martial arts,” he recalls as all part of the regimen. Soon however, the conditioning turns extreme as each soldier must develop the ability to handle both the unfamiliar and the near impossible. After completing his military service, Gruner continued to pursue more training in the martial arts, first in the south of France for a year, before moving on to Switzerland. Then he returned to his homeland once again to study kickboxing. His interest finally brought him to the States during the early Eighties. With his existing martial arts experience, he wanted to also learn boxing and combine the two skills to become strong kickboxer. Making the Transformation to Onscreen Action His dedication eventually paid off when he twice won his country’s national kickboxing championships by the mid-Eighties. By this time he was also intent on building a career in the world of action movies – a journey that began with a kickboxing poster he had on display at the Cannes Film Festival in 1989. It was seen by a film producer who arranged a casting meeting for Gruner in Los Angeles. Gruner was soon given the lead role in a low-budget, nonstop action movie called Angel Town, set on the rough side of L.A. It went over well with martial arts moviegoers world-wide and earned him an extended contract with the film’s producers. His second appearance came in the futuristic thriller, Nemesis, playing a part-human, part-cybersynthetic L.A.P.D. agent. Gruner’s screen roles in the years since have usually required him to demonstrate a variety of physical skills, and to be in peak condition. Following Nemesis, he took on another futuristic role in Automatic, as a slightly defective prototype cyborg. Next, he learned to ride English saddle as a French cavalry officer in Savate, an historical adventure drama set in the American Southwest. These days, as an established action star Gruner remains as dedicated to his training regimen as in his earlier days in America. He likes to drive over to Venice to train six days a week whenever he is at home – a routine that might sound easy and fun, but is actually grueling as far as the demands he puts on both his physical and mental endurance levels to achieve the optimum look and fitness conditioning for an upcoming screen role. One past role, for instance, was the lead character of a backwoodsman in the sci-fi thriller Savage. His training for this began at dawn, with 40 minutes on the life cycle or treadmill. Then he would let his trainer take over, pushing him through another two hours of chest and triceps training on Mondays; legs, calves and abs on Tuesdays; back and biceps on Thursdays; and shoulders and lower body on Fridays. Deriving the Maximum Results from Balanced Training For maximum benefits, Gruner maintains total concentration during both the extension and contraction of each weight movement. “We go to failure of the muscle. My trainer has me work both the positive and the negative. For instance, when you perform curls, make sure your biceps are contracted both on the way up and on the way down. This makes it harder because you don’t have time to relax. If you do 10 reps on the first set in this fashion, you’re going to make the muscle feel like you performed 20 because you’re making sure that the negative movement is still contracting the muscle.” On his days away from the weights he likes to do cardio – taking advantage of the diversity of the southern California landscape: “I do some running and sometimes hiking just to relax. I also kayak and I go skiing.” Having put himself through the most demanding preparation for multiple action roles, Olivier Gruner has become a firm believer in what can be achieved by following a routine built on stamina and self-discipline. “It’s amazing what you can do with the right training and understanding of what you’re going to do, with the food you put inside your body and the changes that you’re able to make from that,” he concludes. “If somebody tells you that you can’t do it, don’t believe them. If you follow what your nutritionist or trainer tells you to do, then you will achieve results, no matter what – and without taking any drugs, either.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJDqtD3Z4jY For more information : www.oliviergruner.com https://twitter.com/ogruner http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0344603/ Get The Pro MMA Training App on iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-pros-mma/id525210047?mt=8
Acclaimed Actor Dennis Christopher
Award-winning actor, Dennis Christopher, stars as Leonide Moguy in Django Unchained, Quentin Tarantino’s action epic set in the antebellum American South, about a ruthless bounty hunter and the slave he promises to free upon capturing their quarry. The film, also starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, Jamie Foxx, Samuel L. Jackson and Kurt Russell, is set for release on Christmas Day, 2012. Christopher portrays the lawyer to DiCaprio’s Calvin Candie, the owner of a plantation where slaves are forced to fight one another. Into this world enters bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz (Waltz) and his slave Django (Foxx), whose ultimate goal is to find and free his still enslaved wife. Throughout his career, Christopher has had the good fortune of working with many a legendary film director. In addition to Tarantino, Christopher has worked with Federico Fellini (Roma), Robert Altman (3 Women and A Wedding), Hugh Hudson (Academy Award winning Best Picture, Chariots of Fire), Peter Werner (Don’t Cry, It’s Only Thunder) and Randall Kleiser (It’s My Party). He is perhaps best remembered for his role in Breaking Away, as the idealistic cyclist Dave Stoller, a working class boy who fantasizes about being an Italian bike racer, and looks forward to the day when an international race will bring excitement to his boring hometown. The film, also starring Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern and Paul Dooley, was the sleeper hit of 1979. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award, a British Academy of Film and Television Award (BAFTA) and a Youth in Film Award. His other motion picture credits include Trapped, Mind Lies, Circuitry Man and Circuitry Man II, A Sinful Life and Jake Speed, among others. Aside from Django Unchained, Christopher is no stranger to period dramas, having been featured in the final season of HBO’s Deadwood, a re-working of the traditional Western. His othertelevision series credits include starring as Jack of all Trades in Profiler and recurring roles in Roswell and Kate Brasher. He has guest starred in series such as Six Feet Under, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Crossing Jordan, among others. Mini-series and other long form credits include Stephen King’s It,Golden Dreams: The Ballad of Lucy Whipple, Natural Enemies, Curaçao and Willing to Kill: The Texas Cheerleader Story. Christopher starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor in the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of The Little Foxes. His other performances on the New York stage include originating the starring role in Retribution, and in Brothers with Carroll O’Connor. His stage accolades include both the L.A. Drama Critics Award for Lead Performance, Drama-Logue Award for Best Actor and L.A. Weekly Award for his portrayal of WWII code breaker Alan Turing in the West Coast premiere of Breaking the Code. He received two other Drama-Logue Awards for his performances in Balm in Gilead and American Buffalo. He has also starred in the Pasadena Playhouse’s production of Side Man and, more recently, the Unknown Theatre’s production of Grand Motel. Additional Off-Broadway and regional credits include Elegies: For Angels, Punks and Raging Queens, The Slab Boys, A Pound on Demand, Summer and Smoke, Butterflies Are Free, and he originated the title role in Yentl: the Yeshiva Boy. “Dennis Christopher is not only a gem in the world of Hollywood but he is also as humble as they come, it was an honor and pleasure to have the opportunity to have him on the UCW Radio Show just prior to the theatrical release of the Golden Globe nominated film “Django Unchained” director by another Hollywood great in Quentin Tarantino, I do look forward to having him on again as his career seems to get brighter every year,” stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.twitter.com/dennischristo04
“The Obama Girl” Model Amber Lee Ettinger
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_amberleeettinger_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have model Amber Lee Ettinger aka “The Obama Girl” on the show. About Amber in Her Own Words I started out in entertainment as a very young girl. Beauty pageants, dance recitals, theater, music lessons, chorus, gymnastics, cheerleading competitions, you name it! My first “real” modeling job came when I was about 15 yrs. old. I modeled for my mothers vintage clothing book entitled “Psychedelic Chic.” My mom has and always will be my biggest inspiration in life. A vintage clothing and antique jewelry collector of over 30 years, owning stores and writing books on all her treasured collectibles. I traveled around with her from store to store and state to state. My Dad was in the military, so I guess you can call me an Army Brat! I learned a lot about fashion growing up, so I guess that’s why I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer at the age of 13. Getting accepted into The Fashion Institute of Technology may have been one of the happiest days of my life! So I leave my small town of Hazleton Pennsylvania and pack my bags to head to New York City. While attending FIT and studying Fashion Design, I got approached to do acting and modeling jobs. I focused on getting my degree and pursuing acting/modeling once I graduated. And that’s exactly what I did! My favorite part of it all is the traveling and just doing something new every day. A little over a year ago I shot a video for a presidential candidate, Barack Obama. That video “Crush on Obama” opened many doors for me and brought me to many places I had never even dreamed of going! “There is more to Amber than meets the eye, the Obama skit got her worldwide exposure but she has no desire to be pigeon holed into that image. So from modeling to going to a true acting school this girl with a business mind has her sights on bigger things on the Hollywood scene, so watch out as you just may see Amber Lee Ettinger in a serious tv/film role in the very near future, I gotta hunch…” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.Amberleeonline.com www.facebook.com/amberleeonline www.Twitter.com/Amberettinger www.youtube.com/2girls2minutes www.myspace.com/InspiredbyAmber
IFBB Bikini Pro & Gaspari Nutrition Spokes Model Marzia Prince
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_marziaprince_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity and honor to have the inspirational IFBB Bikini Pro and Gaspari Nutrition Spokesperson Marzia Prince on the show. We had the unique opportunity to actually take a journey through the life of Marzia Prince, how a girl from Texas at the age of 30 had her life change just by taking a picture for her own collection. To hear about this amazing journey was just something that will throw you back and make you evaluate your life. Have you reached for your goals despite of your fears, are you actually living the best life that you can? these are questions that haunt us all but the story of Marzia Prince is a testament to success and that if you as a person want to achieve something all that you need to do is decide to do something about it. “Marzia is such a great person, she is just beginning to spread her wings in the fitness industry, by aligning with such great people as Rich & Liz Gaspari and Gaspari Nutrition, David Lyons from the Ultimate Body Reality Show and many others, she is destined for true greatness in her sport and in life, I was honored to have her on the show.” said Louis Velazquez host of The UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.marziaprince.com www.gasparinutrition.com www.theultimatebodytvshow.com http://www.myspace.com/marziaprince
National Figure Competitor/Fitness Model Allison Moyer
Allison Moyer is an NPC National level figure athlete, fitness, model, personal trainer, and nutritional consultant. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, Allison learned at an early age the importance of hard work, dedication, and commitment to one’s goals. She was raised in a very active and health conscious family and growing up was encouraged to participate in a variety of sports, including softball, soccer, field hockey, track and field, and cross country. Once Alli entered her college years, her focus shifted and she began to focus on her love of weight lifting and nutrition. At the young age of 19 she embarked on her first contest diet and by the age of 23 she had not only competed in her first show, but qualified for national status as well. To date, Alli has graced the national figure stage 4 times and continues to challenge herself both in and out of the industry. With a successful competitive and modeling career underneath her belt, Alli is now seeking to reach out to others with her belief in healthy, positive, and balanced living. Alli practices what she preaches and lives a healthy lifestyle to the fullest every single day. “I understand the importance of inspiring others, and helping them to feel the same empowerment and confidence through healthy living that I am blessed to receive every single day.” Unfortunately, in the sport of figure and fitness, many times simply winning a show or having a good physique is credential enough to warrant the term “trainer’ or “coach”. Allison’s approach to program design and implementation is based on client engagement, not client compliance. Building a plan to FIT with YOU is Allison’s primary goal. Successful, balanced, healthy living is about making dedicated lifestyle changes- look no further then Alli for the motivation to succeed!. FUN FACTS Full Name: Allison Moyer Nickname: Alli Occupation: Owner- Alli-Fitness Systems LLC; Nationally ranked NPC Figure Athlete; Professional Fitness Model Date of Birth: April 22 1984 Years Competing: 5 Height: 5’6″1/2 Weight: 135-140 off season, 125-130 pre contest Favorite Body Part to Train: Shoulders Favorite clean food: I love eating clean, and do so both on and off season! I love whole rolled oats,egg whites,sweet potato, salmon, organic ground buffalo, quinoa, raw unsalted almonds, walnuts, and cashews, and Ezekiel English Muffins. Lifestyle Philosophy: ” Life is about the choices we make, and consequently, the choices we choose not to make. Taking charge of your health and fitness is achoice- something you need to prioritize in order to get the results you want. I have a very “holistic” approach to the manner in which I handle my clients- I believe that coaching needs to encompass not only the physical, but the mental and emotional as well. I strive to not just give my clients a “diet” but to help rearrange the ways that they think about exercise and nutrition and provide them with the tools to make positive changes to their behaviors.” QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s Degree: Wellness and Sport Science Minor in Athletic Coaching ACE Personal Trainer ISSA Sport Nutrition Consultant Cert. Aerobics Instructor Nationally ranked NPC Figure Athlete Professional Fitness model
Reality Show Start Ashley – Rock of Love Bus & Charm School 3
Reality Show Star Ashley was one of the finalists from Charm School 3 hosted by Ricki Lake, this is a spinoff school showcasing the contestants of the Bret Michaels hit reality love show “Rock of Love Bus”, which Ashley was a contestant in as well. Ashley was a finalist on Charm School 3 and although lots have been said or featured about her online or in the reality TV show tabloids, maybe this interview will shed some light on the real Ashley and at the very least get some feedback on her future plans and appearances. Her fans need to know that she does not have an official Twitter Account, she does not Twitter so if you see anything out there then its a FAKE and report it. She does not have an official site and she only uses MySpace as a way to communicate with her fans, and here is her MySpace page: http://www.myspace.com/princesssmasher And YES it is really Ashley updating and replying, so support her, go to her appearances listed on MySpace, keep an eye on her as the right Reality TV Show situation may be coming around the corner if there is a smart producer in the house!!
Actress Elizabeth Ho
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_elizabethho_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the Actress Elizabeth Ho on the show. Actress Elizabeth Ho is turning up the heat on her career with appearances on the big and small screen this summer, including the CBS drama “Miami Medical,” a recurring role on the new ABC Family sitcom “Melissa and Joey,” and the award-winning indie short film, “KILO.” Up first, Ho faces a challenging road to recovery on an episode of the CBS hit series “Miami Medical,” titled “Medicine Man” airing July 2nd, 2010. After a serious bus accident, a young school teacher (Ho) is brought into the Miami Trauma medical facility where she wants to believe Dr. C (Mike Vogel) has all the answers to make her well. Beginning August 17th, Ho will premiere as a recurring character on the new Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Laurence sitcom, “Melissa and Joey,” for ABC Family. As the local Chief of Staff to City Councilperson Hailey Burke (Hart), Rhonda Cheng (Ho) never missed a beat or an opportunity to whisper her opinion in her boss’s ear. It’s when Rhonda gets dragged into Hailey’s private life as babysitter that she becomes a fish-out-of-water. Ho can also be seen in the award-winning indie short film, “KILO,” currently making the rounds on the festival circuit. When the underappreciated spitfire San Francisco Police Officer Min Lo (Ho) gets a chance to prove her worth and bust a drug dealer with a kilo of cocaine, she gets caught between becoming the department laughing stock and her need to do the ‘right’ thing. The film has been an official selection at numerous festivals, including The Indie Fest (award winner), Women’s International Film Festival Miami, Tiburoun International Film Festival and Palm Beach international Film Festival. Up next, the film will screen at the Burbank Film Festival, Manhattan Film Festival, Charlotte Film Festival, and Asian American International Film Festival. A California girl, Ho hails from a suburb near San Francisco and is a graduate from the University of Southern California’s prestigious Theater program. It didn’t take long for Hollywood to take notice and Ho to quickly establish herself as one-to-watch with numerous roles on network television shows including, “Castle,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “Grey’s Anatomy” among others. Elizabeth Ho is repped by Stone Manners Salners Agency (Agent); and Vincent Cirrincione & Associates (Management). For More About Elizabeth Ho visit: www.LizHo.com
Burlesque Performer/Dancer Sizzle Dizzle
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have burlesques dancer Sizzle Dizzle on the show. From Pennsylvania to New York to California now she is Brooklyn’s own Sizzle Dizzle, a name that brings a big smile to the face of many every year, is an unapologetic and a self described goofball, but in her mind is she made you smile then she did her job. Her forte is transporting the most zanny, sweet and sassy characters to life through dance, facial expressions and basic ass-make-age, her dearest wish is to make those watching hoot & holla! Entertaining is in this energized lady’s blood, having performed on both coasts of this great nation. Such venues include Public Assembly, Slipper Room, Niagara, Bar on A, Barrette, Union Hall, Identity, Rehab, Coney Island, Palace of Wonders, Hells’ Kitchen Lounge, M Bar, Fat Baby, and Los Angeles’s Sunset Striptacular, where she was crowned “Best Attack on the Audience!” Bursting with extraordinary enthusiasm and the thrill of a good laugh, Sizzle Dizzle hopes you enjoy the show and reminds you the second most contagious action is a smile…(the first is a yawn). Whoo hoo! Some of Sizzle Dizzle’s accomplishments OFF BROADWAY Holiday Kisses – Burlesque Dancer – La Mama, E.T.C. The Turner Project – Ensemble/Dance Captain – International Dance Festival Out of Water – Featured Dancer – Mazer Theatre THEATRE Hotsy Totsy: Bastard Keith Returns – Evil Bad Terrorist Guy – HT Productions Haunted – Dance Ensemble – NY Jazz Choreography Project The Four – Featured Dancer – Prospect Theatre Company They Walk Among Us – Corps de Ballet – Prospect Theatre Compny Tableau – Dancer – Ciona Taylor Productions West Side Story – Juanita/Dance Captain – Phillipsburg Theatre FILM Kara & Steve: Our Special Day – Lead – Bigger Baby Productions S.P.A.N.C.K. Tank – Supporting – Bigger Baby Productions Lover’s Quarry – Supporting – Bigger Baby Productions COMMERCIAL The Speckled Door – Female Office Employee – Creators Media Group, Inc. PRINT SPU: California Nights – Lita Fox – Red Skye Comics Feminine Grace – Model – Graham Postner, photographer Soldier and Widow – Widow – Mick Cantarella, photographer Live Shows Foreign Islands Live Concert – Dancer – Childs Restaurant Landmark Kitty Nights Burlesque – Dancer – Bar on A Starshine Burlesque – Dancer – Lucky Chengs Monday Night Burlesque – Dancer – Public Assembly Sugar Shack Burlesque – Dancer – Niagra Bar RECORDING Carols for a Cure: 2001 – Singer – Rock-It-Science! Recordings TEACHING Lighthouse Dance Project – Musical Theatre/Fosse Instructor – Mary Posini Broadway Dance Center – Fosse Instructor/Assistant – Amanda Turner TRAINING Marymount Manhattan College: BA in Theatre Arts: Design & Technical Productions Focus DANCE: Ballet, Burlesque, Fosse, Jazz, Modern, Musical Theatre, Pointe ACTING: Angie Montalbano (on-camera technique) Rod Gilkeson Jaime Chetham (theatre) Photo Credit: Christian Brandan Photography Photo Credit: Ted D’Ottavio Photo Credit: Greg Brophy Websites: http://www.myspace.com/sizzle_dizz
IFBB Figure Pro Louise Rogers
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_louiserogers_interviewucw_complete.mp3 I began weight training when I was about 20-21 years old. Before this I trained in athletics, particularly sprinting. I was also heavily into classes and cardio training, for sometimes up to 2 hours a day. This changed after I completed the Premier Training Personal Training course. Upon completion of the course I started working part time in a bodybuilding/power lifting gym, and I was partnered up with a colleague who was training for power lifting competitions. It was an unlikely pairing however it gave me a real introduction to weight training, specifically power lifting. A few months later I made a switch to bodybuilding type weight training.. and from here I started regularly weight training and phased out much of my cardio training. After a while I started seeing changes in my physique. However it wasn’t until about 5 years later that I thought I might give a competition a go! I remember I had often looked at different fitness magazines seeing the likes of Monica Brant and thinking “wow”.. although I thought it would be unattainable. However after consistently training for so many years I thought I would try doing a local qualifier for Body fitness (figure) to see how I would go. I started preparing for my first show in January 2008 and I really had no idea what to expect from the whole competition experience! I also had no idea whether I would be ‘good enough’ to step on the competition stage. However I had a fantastic support team around me who were really encouraging me to have a go and try it… So I went along to compete at the South Coast UKBFF Qualifier. It was really quite overwhelming but I placed 1st – much to my shock!! From here I qualified to compete at the UKBFF/IFBB British Championships in Nottingham. I competed at the British Championships placing 1st. Becoming UK BodyFitness Champion 2008. My third and most recent competition was the IFBB World Championships in Como, Italy. I placed 5th overall in the world, becoming the first woman in the UK to achieve an IFBB Figure Pro card abroad! “Louise Rogers is what you want to see in an athlete, she’s talented, focused, querky, caring and determined. These are the qualities that make her approachable, these are the qualities that allow her to stand apart from many. I would not be shocked at all if she found herself venturing into the world of entertainment, either film, television or even sports entertainment, WWE may come a calling at some point. It was a definite pleasure to have her on the show and I look forward to having her on again in the future, keep an eye out for her in 2013,” stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.louiserogersfitness.com www.twitter.com/Louise_IFBBPro
PIX 11 News Anchor, Author and Entrepreneur Tamsen Fadal
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tamsenfadal_interviewucw.mp3 Tamsen Fadal is an Emmy Award winning journalist, an author, co-founder and designer of SHANSEN™ Jewelry and co-founder of The Love Consultants, a matchmaking, date coaching and image consulting service. Tamsen loves all things tech, fashion and green. She can be seen bright and early Monday-Friday hosting the WPIX-TV, Morning News starting at 4AM. In January 2010, Tamsen made her Broadway debut in CHICAGO, the musical and appeared in Broadway’s IN THE HEIGHTS, followed by on-stage debuts in Broadway’s IN THE HEIGHTS and ROCK OF AGES. Along with her job as a media personality, Tamsen works alongside, Matt Titus, a TV Host and nationally renowned relationship expert. The two co-authored the book Why Hasn’t He Called? How Guys Really Think and How to Get the Right One Interested in You, their second book, Why Hasn’t He Proposed? Go From The First Date To Setting The Date and their most recent, Don’t Date Dumb. Tamsen has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS Early Show, Tyra Banks and The Nate Berkus Show just to name a few. Prior to joining WPIX-TV, Tamsen was a correspondent for the CBS flagship station, WCBS-TV. With more than a decade of experience, she has covered stories ranging from the Columbia Shuttle Crash to the London Bombings to the war on terror. In 2002, she traveled to Afghanistan with the American troops reporting on the war. She was also sent to Air Force bases in London and Germany to report on local troops during Operation Enduring Freedom. Prior to that, she reported for WPGH-TV in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and WOWK- TV in Charleston, West Virginia and KYW-TV in Philadelphia doing investigative journalism. Tamsen was awarded an Emmy in 2005 for her work as an Investigative Reporter. She was also awarded a Broadcast Journalism award in 2004 by the National Air Disaster Foundation [NADF] post 9/11, for contributions leading to improved aviation safety. Tamsen began her broadcasting career as a morning drive anchor for WHNZ Radio in Tampa, Florida after graduating from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. Tamsen was named the 2004 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award Recipient. This New Yorker is active with various women’s networking groups aimed toward empowerment. Tamsen is extremely active in the fight against Breast Cancer after losing her mother to the disease in 1990. “Tamsen Fadal is a definite inspiration to anyone that ever wanted an example of fighting for your dreams, she never took the high road but is a definite path maker opening doors for others along the way, this is one shining star that will continue to be a beacon of light for young people looking for a reason to reach for their dreams and achieve their goals” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez. Links: www.tamsenfadal.com www.wpix.com/news/morningnews/ www.twitter.com/tamsenfadal www.youtube.com/tamsenfadaltvpage www.shansenjewlery.com
NFL Great, Former NY Jets Ssafety Victor Green
Victor Green was born on December 8, 1969 in Americus Georgia. As a well rounded athlete in High School he ran track, played basketball and excelled in football. After graduation Victor went on to the International Technical Institute where he earned an Associate degree in Marketing. He then went on to pursue his first love of Football at Copiah Lincoln Community College and excelled in the NJCAA where he was twice named to the “Grid Iron All-American” team. While there he received a Associates of Arts degree. He earned a scholarship to play college football for the University of Akron. He also ran track in college and earned 2 more degrees, one in Political Science and one in Criminal Justice. After he graduated in 1993 Victor entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent. By 1994 he was the starting Strong Safety for the New York Jets. His passion for excellence and the game of football was evident in 1995 and 1996 when Green led the NFL in tackles. In the 1996 game against the Buffalo Bills, Green set a New York Jets team record with 20 tackles (13 solo and 7 assists). During his 10 year history with the Jets, Green was named the “Best Strong Safety” in Jets history. “Victor Green is one of the classiest NFL players that I’ve come across to date, he incorporates more than talent his view of family and the Pay-It-Forward mentality is what makes him truly great, between his foundation and his business ventures this is one guy that the youth should look at if they want to get inspired” Stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.victorbgreen.com www.classactsports.com www.coachedbypros.com www.twitter.com/victorgreen21
Pro Wrestler and Actress Niki Nitro
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_nikinitro_interviewucw_complete.mp3 G’day I am Nicole Sharrock. I was Born in Sydney New South Wales Australia on the 22nd May 1981, I moved to *Warilla* (Wollongong) in New South Wales Australia with my mother where I grew up living across the road from the Beach on the South Coast. I attended Lake Illawarra South Public School & Lake Illawarra High School. I have always been into Acting, attending Drama Throughout Primary & High School & I also Joined the school Choir & played Drums 6 years. Apart from my Acting I have always been into my Sports. (My Friends call me a Typical Tomboy) haha I was into Anything from Surfing, Playing Rugby League, Rugby Union, Wrestling, Rollerblading, Skateboarding the Ramps & Half pipes at the local Police Boys Club where I ended up developing a passion for Power Lifting (Weights) after being approached by the local Head coach of the NSW Power Lifting team at the age of 14 I trained my way up into the 2nd Division for New South Wales but retired from Power lifting at 16 due to personal family problems. At the age of 16 I Moved out of Home & moved up to Sydney where I lived for 12 years. I had many, many jobs working in Retail, Hospitality, Laboring, Office, Bar & Personal Training after completing her Personal Training course But I was not satisfied with what I wanted to do with my life as there was always something missing from it. At the age of 17 my Dad took me to my 1st ever Indy Wrestling Show (Australian Championship Wrestling) at Mount Pritchard Liverpool Sydney Australia. Where I finally found what had been missing from my life (Entertainment Wrestling). After the show I approached the company & started training the following Tuesday with Andy *Animal / Daddy Cool* Harpas & I have never looked back I made my Wrestling Debut on the 3rd June 1999 in her Home Town (Warrawong) against Poison Ivy. I am still Wrestling & am Very much still In-love with it. I have been extremely lucky to Wrestle Across Australia & Internationally as *Miss Niki Nitro* This year I was exceptionally lucky enough to be offered a spot on a International Tour & I flew to Newfound Land Canada. Being the 1st ever Australian Wrestler to represent my Home Soil Wrestling on the LCW (Legend City Wrestling) “Lets Get Rowdy Tour”. On Tour with me, was Former Superstars, HOF Rowdy Roddy Piper, Scott Steiner, Rhino & Indy Wrestling Sensation Cult Cabana. On November 1st 2012 I was offered a Contract to be an Actor on the Australian SBS Comedy T.V. Series (Housos) for Season 2. Which will be aired on Australian TV in 2013. I Play the character of *Hayley* Who is in a Defacto relationship with the Main Actor Franky (Paul Fenech). I also appear in the *Housos vs Authority* Movie that was Released out in Australian Cinemas on the 1st of November 2012. “Niki has that something special which in my opinion would be an asset to either the WWE or TNA IMCT, and I see this soon to be star will shine bright in that square circle on a larger scale in the near future” Stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.nikinitro.com
Actor Matthew Jaeger
2021 Matthew Jaeger & Carolina Espiro https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-02-13-UCWRadio_MatthewJaegerCarolinaEspiro_02022021.mp3 2012 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_matthewjaeger_interviewucw_11272012_complete.mp3 2010 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_matthewjaeger_interviewucw.mp3 Matthew Jaeger first tried acting at the age of 14 when a friend convinced him to audition for a high school play back in Delafield, Wisconsin. He enjoyed it so much that he participated in every high school production after that. Still, Jaeger wasn’t really sure that acting was a ‘good’ career choice, so he set out to study broadcasting at college. But, by the end of the first semester at Marquette University, Jaeger had set that major aside and fully engulfed himself in the Theatre Arts program with a minor in dance. It was during this time that Jaeger finally gave up resisting and started believing that his fascination with expression could be a ‘good’ career choice. And, shortly after graduating, Jaeger packed up his car and headed for Hollywood. In the days ahead, Jaeger realized that his passion for learning and new experiences could be of use. As a result, he has died, killed, wed, cheated, stolen, and sold himself to another man… all in a day’s work. Jaeger’s roles have spanned from a transvestite prostitute to a clever mafioso, allowing him to showcase his exceptional ability of bringing characters in conflict to life. In one role Jaeger is diving into the lives of three complicated characters, two fighting for love and another fighting for diamonds. First, as an openly gay man struggling with love and spiritual connection, in the film festival favorite “Just Say Love,” directed by three-time Emmy Award winner Bill Humphreys. On stage, Jaeger is caught between the deaf and hearing worlds, in the 30th Anniversary production of Children of a Lesser God,which ran at the celebrated Deaf West Theater in Los Angeles. Lastly, Jaeger is fighting for his love of diamonds, as he co-stars as the thief Mr. Luther, in the newly launched HBOImagine Brand Experience internet miniseries. These episodes will also play on four-sided “cube” screens as live events in select cities around the country, including New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. You can see Matthew as he is frequently seen on such shows as CSI, Criminal Minds and others. His latest reality show project, “URBAN NATURE MAN” puts a city boy in a situation where he needs to live off the land, well kind of, this is sure to be a big hit as its in line to get picked up by one of the networks. “In the world of entertainment you have mainstays and you have flash in the pans, those that hone their skills & bright that talent to enhance a project are the ones that become legendary, Matthew Jaeger is an awesome talent that I see falling into that realm, you definitely want to keep an eye out on his career,” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.matthewjaeger.com www.urbannatureman.com https://www.twitter.com/matthewdjaeger To watch the sneak peek episode “Teddy Bear Chase” of the HBOImagine Brand Experience visit: www.HBOImagine.com For “Just Say Love” visit: www.JustSayLoveMovie.com For “Children of a Lesser God” visit: www.DeafWest.org
Recording Artist and Occult Film Director Seraphim Ward
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_seraphimward_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Seraphim Ward is of Creole descent and in every aspect of her work, she displays her enchanted charm beautifully. Hailing from the south parts of the United States, Mississippi, New Orleans and Indiana, she shivers that ‘ole southern hospitality warmly inviting to all. Seraphim Ward was born with a severe speaking impediment disorder that was said to be severe enough that recovery to obtain an normal speech would not likely be, Seraphim grew a custom to literature knowing this was the only outlet for communication since she could not complete a full sentence not alone pronounce a entire word. Seraphim Ward was teased a lot as a young child that continued up into her late teens, for her nature and disorder, this caused her to become an introverted mute for some time. Having love for literature Seraphim Ward began writing her emotions and thoughts in a very expressive manner creating a world around her that reflected in her likeness and flaws. Seeing that she did not fit or belong, Seraphim ran away at 15yrs. old, returning back home for just a short period of time after, envisioning where she belonged and what she wanted to become, Seraphim Ward left for Hollywood, still held bound to the stuttering speech disorder, she religiously practiced on her speech daily, hoping eventually it would go away. Seraphim Ward along with the other hundred’s of Hollywood run-a-ways, became a child of the night hidden away in the dark shadows. The run-a-ways formed a safe group on the streets, looking out for one another creating spanging and sleeping shifts, in which Seraphim became Willow, the one protected in darkness. She continued to write in her notebook lyrics, poems and vivid stories of creation in another realm, show her passion of interest in it. Seraphim Ward caught the eye of an manager for talent in Hollywood, who signed her, placing her in a place to safely live and sent her out for auditions for commercials, modeling and print work. Seraphim booked work, three national commercials in a row shortly after… Kraft’s Macaroni and Cheese, Foot Locker, Macy’s (back to school) and a J-Crew print ad. She went on to model for designers and high-end boutique stores in Beverly Hills such as Be Be, XoXo and Theory among many. Being able to take care of herself now, Seraphim Ward got a one bedroom apartment on her own and continued to push in the Entertainment Industry. Not too long after Seraphim realized her speaking impediment was not present anymore and marveled that she has no regulation of the pinpoint moment when it stopped, a few years would pass before Seraphim Ward’s stuttering disorder untimely return, Seraphim began writing down her emotions, feelings and thoughts on paper again documenting her complications in words. This would lead her into her first music demo recording filled with the material she wrote during and after the disorder left her again. Seraphim Ward was introduced to a church in Los Angeles where she joined the choir and the praise dance team, hailing to church 5days a week for rehearsals and service, Seraphim thought this would be an great asset for her to ground her spirituality balance once again. This was short lived when Seraphim was told “she did not belong and she has no business being there”. With the now distracting situation, Seraphim Ward left and never looked back. Her first Demo was recorded and which her Influences were Garbage, Nine Inch Nails, Nina Simone and Concrete Blonde. Seraphim Ward met one of her influences Trent Reznor from Nine Inch Nails through a mutual friend, and they began dating, Trent introducing Seraphim to his family in Mercer, Pennsylvania, was more than just a vision for Seraphim Ward it was a family she grew not to have and a friend she could always look up to and trust. Trent Reznor offered to lend a helping hand to Seraphim Ward with her music, but Seraphim felt it was right that she did the beginnings of her recordings herself, stating “this is something I have to do for me, I don’t want to use Trent Reznor for that”, even today, he remains a positive illuminated figure in Seraphim Ward’s life and path, having given guidance and directional advise to her that carried Seraphim through even some of her most darkest moments in time, including her suicide attempt. Seraphim Ward decided not to focus so much on music, but to pay attention more on the creative writing literature side, wanting to put her visions to screen as Rob Zombie had done with a “House Of A Thousand Corpses” Seraphim Ward studied Film here in Hollywood an outlet of communication that allows her stories, the torments, and the darkest secrets of her mind be painted. Seeing that Seraphim Ward was not fully complete by those around her and peers, she was suggested to mix the two her music and her film art, knowing the difference in the creative spark, Seraphim Ward took the advice given and started recording again while she was still studying Film. “It was like as if a old flame had been ignited, a feeling I don’t ever want to let go of again” says Seraphim Ward Finishing film school Seraphim received her first worldwide distribution deal for her Sin Icon Productions Film and Music company in which the first single release off her “Time Heals All wounds” album “Bad Behavior” was set to be released, as well as her complete features “The Sight”, “Reaper’s Cry”, “Angel One Eye”, and “The Witches Brew”… Seraphim Ward began the promotion of her single “Bad Behavior” as well as her movie features, having shot a three day music video shoot for the single that was commercially displayed she was advised to hire an professional publicist to get the leak out about herself as an artist and filmmaker through her Sin Icon Production Music and Film company. Seraphim Ward was over excited with her new adventure, wanting to
UFC Legend Frank Shamrock
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_frankshamrock_ucwradio.mp3 Frank Shamrock was born Frank Alicio Juarez III on December 8, 1972, at the UCLA Medical Center in Westwood, California. A sensitive child, raised in a difficult family, Frank’s early life was filled with violence, poverty and trouble. Rejecting his family, Frank became a ward of the State of California at 12 and a prison inmate at 18. But by the age of 22, Frank was a world story. His incredible journey, soon to be published in book form, has been an inspiration to fans around the world. As a fighter, Frank “The Legend” Shamrock was a mixed martial arts and extreme fighting pioneer. He was the world’s first UFC Middleweight Champion, and left the UFC as the four-time, undefeated champion. He secured four world titles, and set two world records for the fastest championship victories in history – defeating one contender in 14 seconds and another in 20. He is widely considered the first complete fighter/athlete and promotes martial arts as saving his life. “The Legend’s” legendary fights helped make MMA a growing and respected sport, and he is credited with advancing the sport to broadcast television. In 2006 Frank won the first-ever sanctioned MMA fight in California, knocking out family rival Cesar Gracie. He went on to highly-rated bouts with MMA superstars Phil Baroni, Renzo Gracie and Cung Le. In 2009, Frank’s MMA expertise went multimedia, with the publication of the book “Mixed Martial Arts For Dummies” and repeated TV commentating appearances on CBS’s “Saturday Night Fights” and fights on Showtime. Today, Frank and his wife Amy live in San Jose, California with their daughter Nicolette, born in April 2008. Frank also has a 22 year old son Frankie, from his first marriage, who currently lives in Arkansas and is studying acting, modeling and stage technique. Now retired from professional competition, the Legend likes to hike outdoors with his family, is an avid reader of any and all books, loves to dance with his daughter and watch movies. Websites: www.frankshamrock.com
Bodybuilding Legend Eddie Robinson
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_eddierobinson_interviewucw_complete.mp3 In my life I have been blessed as an athlete and father of two precious children, Cara 16 & Seth 8. My career as an athlete started at a young age, as a teenager I played football and boxed at the Golden Gloves in Akron Ohio. In 1982, I moved to Florida and got involved in bodybuilding and power lifting which became my true love. As a teenager I was able to accomplish winning just about every bodybuilding and powerlifting meet in the state of Florida. My career took off like a rocket in 1986 when I took a world record in the bench press at 5’8 and 220 pounds; I had pressed 575 and 610 pounds ranking me number one in the world. At that time I had channeled my strength to pursue a career in bodybuilding. Winning the Mr. Florida, Mr. America, and Mr. USA titles gave me professional recognition as one of the greatest pro bodybuilders and powerlifters in the world. Having competed as a professional bodybuilder for fifteen years I decided to retire in 2002 giving up my pro status as an IFBB pro athlete and moving on to what God has in store for me next. I have been blessed in my career accomplishing over seventy-five national and international magazine covers, 360 articles & advertisements along with numerous endorsements. The highlights of my career have been working with Arnold Schwarzenegger, being featured doing a series of photos for his bodybuilding encyclopedia along with competing in the Arnold Classic. I was also honored to have the privilege to work with Vince & Linda McMahon endorsing ICO/PRO, and competing in the WBF, one of the highlights of my life. And last but not least Mr. Joe Weider.aka (The Master Blaster), I owe a lot to this man for taking me under his belt for the last twelve years, and for having faith in me as a pro athlete & contracting me for most of my professional career. I am honored, and always will be for being an endorser of Muscle & Fitness, Flex, and Weider Nutrition. My career has enabled me to travel the world, and meet some of the world’s greatest people. I thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to meet these great people who have become my friends, and by giving me the strength to be the best athlete and father that I can be. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fans for all their support through the fifteen years of my professional career. Your letters have always given me the drive and inspiration to be the best athlete that I can in the sport of bodybuilding. Please remember, just because I have retired from the sport of bodybuilding don’t think that this is the end of Eddie Robinson, I promise you this is just the beginning! I am up to bigger and better things, a new chapter in my life. I have captured all of these achievements for a reason. Now it is time to capitalize on all of these achievements and put them to work. “Life is not about who you are or what you’ve done, it’s about how many lives you have touched and the closeness of Family and friends! God Bless You All!IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, two children, Cara (born 1992) & Seth (born 2001). Weider contracted athlete 1988-2002, Vince McMahon 1990-1994 Websites: www.eddierobinson.org www.twitter.com/eddie_robinson
From The Karate Kid & Rambo Films Actor Martin Kove
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_martin_kove_power_hour_10232012.mp3 New York born, strong featured, narrow eyed actor who has portrayed a mixed bag of both good and bad guys! First turned up on screen in several minor roles, and got himself noticed as the villainous “Nero The Hero” in the low budget road race Death Race 2000(1975), and then as “Clem” the sadistic rigger, breaking Jan-Michael Vincent’s ribs inWhite Line Fever (1975). He cropped up in the hit TV series “Cagney & Lacey” (1981) as honest Police Detective Isbecki, and then got on the wrong side of rampaging Sylvester Stallone in Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985). Kove probably scored his greatest visibility to the public ( in the hugely successful The Karate Kid (1984) in which he played “John Kreese”, the head instructor of the Cobra Kai karate school, and he reprised the role in the two sequels, The Karate Kid, Part II (1986) and The Karate Kid, Part III (1989). Kove has since kept consistently busy, primarily in the action / thriller film genre, and has notched up over 80 film appearances to date, as well as numerous TV guest roles.
Wing Chun Pioneer & Martial Arts Legend Jason Lau
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_JasonLau_05202021.mp3 Grandmaster Jason Lau grew up in Hong Kong in a martial arts family. Both his mother and father were performers and martial artists in the famous Chinese Opera. Grandmaster Lau’s mother trained him in the Northern Shaolin style from the time he could walk, and drilled him constantly. When he was about twelve years old, a fellow classmate at LaSalle Academy helped him in a fight against several English boys. It was during this fight that Grandmaster Lau first saw Wing Chun in action. He was so impressed, he immediately found a school to learn the system. Master Jiu Wan accepted him as a student, and he began to train in secret, fearful that his mother would discover that he was training in another style. Grandmaster Lau trained with Jiu Wan until age nineteen, when he left Hong Kong to come to America. He soon settled in an area of Brooklyn known as Flatbush. As Grandmaster Lau opened his school and got to know the local merchants, he discovered that crime in his neighborhood was widespread. He decided to use his Wing Chun skills to defend his neighborhood. He soon became well known and appreciated as a vigilante, both by the shopkeepers and the police. As his reputation spread, he came to the attention of retired General Mitchell WerBell III, who was scouting for instructors for his counter-terrorist training camp, SIONICS. General WerBell recruited Grandmaster Lau to teach hand to hand combat at the camp in Powder Springs, Georgia. Grandmaster Lau so impressed the General with his abilities that he soon became the camp’s chief instructor and the General’s personal bodyguard. Shortly after General WerBell’s death in 1983, Grandmaster Lau again opened a Wing Chun academy, this time in Smyrna, Georgia. His school and his reputation grew in the Atlanta area, and he was often featured in news specials and magazine and newspaper articles. In the early 1990s, Grandmaster Lau was finally able to realize his dream of designing and building a Wing Chun temple. He and his students labored for two years to build the academy, nestled in a wooded Atlanta suburb. Grandmaster Lau formed his school into a family. He treats his students as if they were his sons and daughters, and the students treat each other as brothers and sisters. The school that he designed and built is their home. Grandmaster Lau is currently finishing an instructional Wing Chun video tape for the branches of his family in New York and Tampa as well as for other serious Wing Chun students. Websites: www.jasonlau-wingchun.com
Martial Artist and Hollywood Actor Cary Tagawa
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (born September 27, 1950) is a Japanese American actor. In addition to his extensive film work, he has appeared on television in Star Trek: The Next Generation – ” Encounter at Farpoint ” (1987), Thunder in Paradise (1995), Nash Bridges (1996), Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding(2003), and Heroes (2007). He also provided the voice of Sin Tzu for the video game Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu. He played the part of Earth Alliance security officer Morishi in Babylon 5 – ” Convictions “. He played a soul-stealing sorcerer Shang Tsung in a film adaptation of the video game Mortal Kombat. He was born in Tokyo, Japan, the son of an actress from Tokyo and a Japanese-American father who served in the United States Army (stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort Polk, Louisiana and Fort Hood, Texas ). He was raised in various cities. He began acting in high school while attending Duarte High School in Southern California. He attended the University of Southern California, and was an exchange student in Japan. His breakthrough as an actor came when he was cast as the Eunuch Chang in The Last Emperor(1987). In 1989 he posed as an undercover agent of the Hong Kong Narcotics Board in the James Bond film License to Kill. In 1991 he starred alongside Dolph Lundgren and Brandon Lee in the action film Showdown in Little Tokyo , where he played the role of Yakuza boss Yoshida. He also starred alongside James Hong and Jeff Speakman in the same year in the film The Perfect Weapon, where he played Kai, an assistant to the Korean mafia families. Many remember him from the movieMortal Kombat (1995) as the shape-shifting sorcerer Shang Tsung , and as the deadly pirate leader Kabai Singh in The Phantom (1996). Tagawa is among the actors, producers and directors interviewed in the documentary The Slanted Screen (2006), directed by Jeff Adachi , about the representation of Asian and Asian-American men in Hollywood. Most recently, Tagawa was selected for the role of Heihachi Mishima in Tekken , the film adaptation of the popular video game franchise. He was also featured as the voice of Brushogun in Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo. Japanese born actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa’s interest in films began at the age of eight when Ayako, his then-famous Japanese theatre mother, took him to see Shirley McClain’s academy award winning performance in Some Came Running. Although I didn’t fully understand the drama I could sense and see the emotional content in the actors’ performances. “Being a hypersensitive kid, I thought that my sensitivity might someday be utilized as an actor.” The journey from that inspiration manifested into an impressive curriculum vitae of filmwork. Tagawa’s raw powerful sensuality and physical skill on screen is complimented by his deep emotional sensitivity as an actor translates into a laser focused Zen-like acting style that few to date can emulate. Tagawa began his acting career as an extra in Big Trouble in Little China. With his true to life charismatic smile, Tagawa recalls, “It was the only extra job I ever did not because of talent but because of luck and looks. They needed tough looking Asian bad guys.” Thus began the notable career of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. “What most people don’t know is that I was a healer long before I began acting. It is my first love.” – Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa Tagawa’s feature films spanning twenty-three years have grossed over 1.5 billion in worldwide box office and another seventy performances on television shows and series. The feature films have netted 13 Academy Awards from The Last Emperor to Pearl Harbor to Memoirs of a Geisha. His latest films include Hachiko and Tekken. InHachiko which won the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at The Sedona International Film Festival, Tagawa plays Richard Gere’s best friend. “What most people don’t know is that I was a healer long before I began acting. It is my first love.” As the founder of a 31 year old Post-New Age breathing modality, Chuu Shin, Tagawa combines his experience in Martial Arts and Sports. “I was always a very physical child. I always played sports which naturally led to the study of Martial Arts but Chuu Shin was founded upon leaving my traditional study.” Chuu Shin represents the best of Tagawa’s Sports and Martial Arts history. It combines the Western external physical training with Eastern internal energy systems. | FILMOGRAPHY | CHUU SHIN DO WORKING WITH ATHLETES Cary has always had a passion for football. He got his start working with athletes when in 1979, Los Angeles Rams running back Wendell Tyler asked Cary to train him using martial arts techniques. He was asked again in 1993 by pro football players Marcus Allen and Sean Jones to help them increase their athleticism. In each case, the athletes were able to achieve higher performance with less energy expenditure. Their increased flexibility led to greater quickness, speed and reaction time. Cary realized then that his training techniques could enhance the performance of professional athletes on a much grander scale.
Martial Artist, Comedian and Actor Hank Garrett
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_hankgarrett_ucwradio.mp3 Growing up in New York’s Harlem, Henry Garrett was thrilled to discover that the 300-pound weight set that he ordered had finally arrived. His mother tried to persuade the delivery man to take it to their fifth floor apartment with an offer of ten cents. “I’ll pay you a buck not to ask me for help” was the wisecracking response. Henry struggled but managed to lug his new equipment, piece by piece, up the five floors. Little did he know that this modest purchase would forever shape not only his body but also his life. “Hank” progressed to working out at the local YMCA and began competing in body building and powerlifting contests. While at the “Y”, he was approached by another weight trainer and educated on the virtues of becoming a professional wrestler. Veteran grappler Bibber McCoy helped to train the muscular upstart. An arranged meeting with New York promoter and PWHF Inductee Toots Mondt began seventeen year old Hank’s mat career. He soon started working at the local New York and New Jersey arenas billed as Hank Daniels, “The Minnesota Farm Boy”, although he had never stepped foot into Minnesota. The confidence that Hank gained from his chiseled physique also led him to pursue stand-up comedy. Following a short period of time honing his skills in local establishments, teenager Garrett began rotating his evenings inside the squared circle as the “Farm Boy” and in front of a microphone as Hank Garrett. “I was scheduled to wrestle Killer Kowalski in California” Hank recently told this writer, “Killer picked me up at the airport and couldn’t have been nicer to me. We got in the ring and he proceeded to slap me across the face to open the match. I was pretty taken by this unexpected move so I banged him with my best forearm but didn’t even move his feet. I don’t remember the rest of the match but later in the locker room Kowalski said to me ‘Hey Hank, why did you keep running past me in the ring yelling out Mama, Mama ?’ “. Despite five years of competition against many wrestlers including legendary stars such as Lenny Montana, Baron Leone and Mike Mazurki, Hank hung up his wrestling trunks for good and made his way to the Catskills and the Borscht Belt to concentrate on his comedy. A great story teller with a wealth of dialects, Hank cultivated his signature “clean” comic routine working as an opening act for such greats as Tony Bennett, Jerry Vale and Della Reese. He holds the unique distinction of being the first Anglo comedian to ever grace the stage of the Apollo Theater in his Harlem hometown. Hank’s first venture into television took place in New York as Officer Nicholson in the iconic television series, Car 54, Where Are You?. California called again but this time it was for another television series in which Hank teamed with James Earl Jones in a show conceived for them entitled Paris. “James was a wonderful actor” Hank stated, “and he probably taught me more than anyone about the profession”. . Garrett has also been featured in a number of other classic episodic television shows such as Columbo, Dragnet, Kojak and The Twilight Zone. Hank has also found great success on the silver screen. He has worked with such stars as Al Pacino, James Coburn, and Sophia Loren to mention only a few. Hank described Loren as the most beautiful woman he has ever met. In a “stunt that went wrong” while filming a movie with Sophia, Hank suddenly found himself barely conscious and cradled in the arms of Ms. Loren, who yelled to bystanders to send for an ambulance. Garrett, still in a daze, recalled following up by saying “but, take your time!” Unfortunately, ill-fated stunts have not been uncommon to Garrett. While filming a fighting scene with Amsterdam’s own Kirk Douglas, Kirk reassured Hank that he had never actually hit another actor in all of years of performing. He then proceeded to inadvertently hammer Garrett to the face. Hank graciously informed Douglas that he had just blown his reputation. Perhaps Garrett’s greatest personal satisfaction garnered within the movie industry was winning the New York Film Critics Award for his role in Three Days of the Condor. When I discussed this movie with Hank, I learned he was not always on the receiving end of ill-fated stunts as he jokingly lamented, “I never recall hurting anyone as a wrestler but I accidentally broke Robert Redford’s nose during the filming of Condor.” As a seasoned veteran, Hank lists literally hundreds of credits in movies and television. Today Hank enjoys an active life in Los Angeles where he chooses to perform his crafts without an automobile after being a passenger in tragic accident many years ago. “You meet the most interesting people in both buses and limos” Hank recently stated. Garrett continues to be in great physical shape by pursuing weight training as his hobby and monitoring his diet. He also has had a long time passion for martial arts where he has achieved the status of a Black Belt. and been inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame. Garrett actively participates in many celebrity autograph shows throughout the country and performs his comedy routines at corporate outings and special events. In addition, with his powerful and youthful voice, Garrett can be regularly heard on the animated television shows Garfield and G. I. Joe. Hank donates much of his proceeds from his appearances to his favorite charity, the Disabled American Veterans. “Giving back is what it is all about for me” Hank told this writer.” I have been very blessed in my life and I would like to return some of my successes to those that have been less fortunate and who have sacrificed for our country.”
Martial Arts Legend The Lady Dragon Cynthia Rothrock
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_cynthiarothrock_ucwradio.mp3 Cynthia Rothrock is one of the greatest martial arts/action film stars in the world, Few other performers can match her presence and energy on the silver screen. She is the undisputed “Queen of Martial Arts films”.Cynthia Rothrock is not only a great action star, but also an incredibly accomplished martial artist. She holds 5 Black Belts in various Far Eastern martial disciplines. These Arts include; Tang Soo Do (Korean), Tae Kwon Do (Korean), Eagle Claw (Chinese), Wu Shu (contemporary Chinese), and Northern Shaolin (classical Chinese). Cynthia Rothrock’s movie career “shooting schedule” has taken her to some of the most exotic locations on the planet. Paradoxically, she has also endured some of the worse climatic conditions that anyone in the moton picture could ever anticipate – all in the name of making “action-adventure” motion pictures.But, Cynthia is quick to point out that the memories and enjoyment of working with some of the top martial arts directors in the business has all been worth it. Namely; outstanding directors like Robert Clouse (Enter the Dragon starring Bruce Lee), Cory Yuen (No Retreat, No Surrender end many more), Samo Hung (Shanghai Express and many more), Guy Norris (Rage and Honor II), Kevin Hooks (Irresistible Force, more), Oley Sassone (Fast Getaway II, more), Paul Maslak (Blonde Justice, more), John Schlesinger (Eye for an Eye, more), Brian Todd (Hostage, more). and Fred Williamson (Night Vision, more). William Groak, an Editor for Black Belt Magazine, once compiled a dossier that perhaps best sums up Cynthia’s action-adventure martial arts film career and work ethic when it comes to the film making process. Simply stated, it reads, “Cynthia Rothrock: The Next Action Hero. SUBJECT: Next Action Film Star. MISSION: Conquer America. STATS: Can Fight, Punch, Maim, Shoot, Kick and Whip 155 Crazed Terrorists with nary a scratch. PROFILE: Sports a Ponytail better than Seagal, Chest Superior to Arnold, Looks Superior to Van Damme and Norris. And, unlike Stallone and Willis, obliterates Bad Guys while perched on Three-Inch Heels.” She has had her celebrated moments in the “spot light” as a film personality that has been a true martial artist from the beginning of her film career. Appearing at Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Fitness EXPO ’98 brings back fond memories of Arnold actually singing “Happy Birthday” to her on stage before a packed house that drew 75,000 competitors and spectators for a weekend in Columbus, Ohio in 1998. Much of that same notoriety has been experienced at Film Festivals all over the world in addition to countless hundreds and hundreds of karate and kung-fu tournaments she has attended over the past decade. Being honored at the Crystal Awards (comparable to Hollywood’s Academy Award “Oscars”) had it’s finer moments as well. Cynthia was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for popularizing martial arts around the world through the film media. Publicity has followed Cynthia Rothrock through every stage of her illustrious career. She is the “media darling” of virtually every reporter, writer, and martial arts magazine in the world. They know that she draws readers by the thousands to their publication. In fact, her “image” and “career” is perhaps followed more closely (by martial arts enthusiast) than any other “martial arts” actors except Chuck Norris or Jackie Chan. Websites: www.cynthiarothrock.org
From LXTV’S Open House Interior Designer Frances Herrera
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_francesherrera_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Acclaimed for her “affordable luxury” design principles, Frances Herrera has quickly become one of the top approachable and coveted interior designers. Since establishing her design firm in New York City in 2002, services have expanded and are now offered throughout South Florida where she resides. Frances believes that personal attention and building client relationships through exceptional service is as important as the innovative designs she provides. Sophisticated taste, flawless execution, and her ability to understand her client’s unique needs and desires is what sets her apart from other firms. Whether designing a modern, contemporary or traditional space, her philosophy remains the same: to create comfortable, livable rooms, with an understated, sophisticated edge. She is most recognized for her ability to create welcoming, harmonious, sanctuary-like homes that feel polished and refined. “I don’t follow trends,” Frances says. “I let my clients’ passions and interests dictate the emotion and feel of the home. Ultimately, I design homes that progress over time and reflect my clients’ ever- evolving lifestyles.” As a TV makeover personality, Frances’ distinctive creativity, flare for transforming spaces and captivating energy has captured countless fans. She has appeared numerous times on NBC’s Open House, George to the Rescue and LXTV’s On the White Carpet. Her work has also been featured in numerous publications and blogs including Real Simple, Bella Magazine, New York Newsday and Apartment Therapy. Websites: www.francesherrera.com
Martial Arts Legend and Actor Don “The Dragon” Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_don_wilson_power_hour_09252012.mp3 Don “The Dragon” Wilson is considered the greatest kick-boxing champion in the sport’s history. A native of South Florida, Wilson began fighting in the late 1970s. In a career which spanned 4 decades, he won 11 world kick-boxing championships, among them the WKA, STAR, WKC, PKO Lightheavyweight World Championships, WKA, STAR, ISKA World Cruiserweight Titles, and the WKA and STAR Super-Lightheavyweight World Championships.He posted a record of 72-5-2 with 47 wins by knockout. Wilson defeated such world champions as Dennis Alexio, Oaktree Edwards, and Dick Kimber. He retired from the sport in 1990, but launched a comeback on May 14, 1999. Since his return he has knocked-out Dick Kimber and defeated Dewey Cooper. Websites: www.donthedragonwilson.com
Actress Karen-Eileen Gordon
Actress Karen-Eileen Gordon’s shape-shifting performances on television and film have impressed audiences and critics alike. Gordon is currently filming her second season as FLORENCE (tough-smart-funny New York dame) on the hit STARZ Network Original Series “Magic City,” set in 1959 Miami Beach and starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan. “Flo” is the longtime executive assistant to Morgan’s character Ike Evans, owner of the luxe Miramar Playa Hotel. The show is currently in production in Miami, and returns to the air in 2013. On television, Gordon recently completed a guest-star turn on A & E’s smash drama “The Glades,” as sharky lawyer JOANNE RILEY; that episode received the highest ratings in the show’s history-to-date. On film, Gordon stars in the independent feature comedy “A Free Bird” as southern hurricane-in-a-jar TAMMY, directed by George Foster Peabody and British Academy of Film and Television Arts award-winner Gregg Russell. The project, now in post-production, will debut on the festival circuit in 2013. Gordon is also a Reiki Master (Japanese energy healing art), Harvard grad, and a voting member of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. She is based in Los Angeles, and has a big crush on social media. Join the adventures at: Websites: www.twitter.com/GotKarenEileen www.facebook.com/KarenEileenGordonOfficial
Bravo TV’s “Love Broker” Lori Zaslow & Jenn Zucher
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_lorizaslow_jennzucher_interviewucw.mp3 Founded by Lori Zaslow and Jennifer Zucher, professional matchmakers and BRAVO TV’s Love Brokers, Project Soulmate is Manhattan’s premier matchmaking service for elite singles. We are distinguished by our proprietary database, meticulously screened and personalized introductions, honest and kind feedback, concierge services and expert relationship support. Our priority is to deliver high quality, meaningful matches that have a genuine potential for love. Whether this is your first real romance or a second chance at love, Project Soulmate is passionate to help you meet your other half. LORI ZASLOW – www.twitter.com/lorizaslow Lori Zaslow loves a good project. Especially the kind that requires a little initiative, creativity and some serious networking. Now, if a project involves making someone happy, or perhaps making two people happy, Lori will use her expert matchmaking abilities to take on this mission! Lori had spent 12 years as an executive recruiter, most recently for the powerhouse family of companies including JBCStyle (http://www.JBCStyle.com) focusing on the fashion and retail industries. With an unlimited source of energy, optimism and dedication, she has put hundreds of women and men into their dream jobs. Now it’s her time to focus this talent on connecting two people on a more personal level. Outside of work, Lori juggles motherhood, an amazing 11 year marriage and hundreds of friendships from every life experience. Lori has formed lasting connections with everyone she’s met in life and in turn, they’ve connected her with others, and so on. Lori approaches Project Soulmate with an old-fashioned business sense. There is no substitute for face time. Relationships need to be nurtured. Honesty and integrity are important. And everyone deserves a shot. JENNIFER ZUCHER – www.twitter.com/jennzucher Jennifer Zucher believes she has the best job in the world – She spends her days finding people the love they deserve, and does it alongside her best friend and closest confidant. She mixes honesty and enthusiasm with keen interpersonal and negotiating skills. With a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from New York University’s Stern School of Business, Jennifer mastered the Manhattan real estate landscape for over 12 years as a principal at Plaza Real Estate Group (http://www.plazagroupnyc.com). Beginning Project Soulmate with her childhood friend feels like natural extension of that endeavor. Jennifer’s passion for matchmaking was inspired by her obsession with asking how couples met. She has been the inciting force behind many relationships in her personal life and loves to give advice to her friends, family and most importantly her clients. Jennifer currently resides in New York City with her husband, Ron Zucher and two children ages 4 and 2. Outside of work, she is a passionate philanthropist and donates any free time to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. “I come across many interesting, celebrated and inspirational people as part of the UCW Radio Show and my other endeavors, I must say that Lori and Jenn are two amazing women who are two sides of the same coin making for a winning combination. Their drive and enthusiasm along with their business acumen puts them high on the list of people to look to for inspiration if one needed a confidence boost as they started Project Soulmate in the red and now its a thriving success.” stated Louis Velazquez UCW Radio Show Host www.projectsoulmate.com www.bravotv.com/love-broker
IFBB Professional Bodybuilder Mark Alvisi
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_markalvisi_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Mark Alvisi, a first generation Italian American, was born January 12, 1977 in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The Alvisi family originally from Abruzzi, Italy moved to the United States in 1962. They planted their roots in Coatesville, Pennsylvania where Mark was raised. From his earliest memories, Mark was extremely athletic as a kid; he played many sports and excelled in Martial Arts. At 12 years old he ran across some bodybuilding magazines that made an indelible impression on him. This is when the seed was planted and the love of bodybuilding began. Mark would dabble with weight lifting in his home basement even though he didn’t have much in the way of real equipment. This lasted through his teens until he graduated high school at 18 years old and joined the Army. While in the Army he completed basic training, Advanced Individual Training and Airborne school. It was in the Army that he had the ability to weight train regularly since he now had access to a real gym. Not only was he quick to develop physically, but he also developed an unshakeable work ethic that would eventually carry over into his bodybuilding career. He successfully completed his term of service in Fort Bragg, North Carolina in 3rd Special Forces Group Support Command as a Sergeant E-5. Upon completion of his term he made the move to South Florida. Once in Florida he was exposed to the competition side of the sport for the first time and was convinced by the head trainer of his gym, a NPC judge and IFBB Pro, that he should compete. Mark, competitive in nature, made the decision to compete in his first bodybuilding contest in April of 2001. That proved to be a very wise decision as he won the Overall at his inaugural show. After that victory, Mark Alvisi was hooked. He went on to obtain Professional status in the NABF and Musclemania organizations before switching to the NPC in 2003. Mark’s rock like work ethic finally paid off in July of 2009 where he won the Overall at the NPC USA Championships and earned his IFBB Professional status. Mark has had many incredible opportunities since 2001 when he began his career. He has worked for various sports nutrition and publication companies such as Gaspari Nutrition and Muscular Development since that time in either sales or as a sponsored athlete. Mark’s visibility and fan base is wide reaching and spans the globe due to the marketing efforts of Gaspari Nutrition. The culmination of his growing popularity and industry contacts is leading Mark into an exciting new direction. In October 2010, he opened his first sports nutrition store in Delray Beach, Florida. This premiere store is named Pro Sports Nutrition. Websites: www.ProSportsNutritionOnline.com www.markalvisi.com www.twitter.com/markalvisi www.revivesciences.com
The Vanessa Riddle Story with Chris Riddle
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_chris_vanessariddle_interviewucw_complete.mp3 VANESSA’S JOURNEY BY CHRIS & CONNIE RIDDLE In Feb 2009 our then 8 yr. old daughter Vanessa, was diagnosed with Stage 4 (High-Risk) Neuroblastoma, a very rare, aggressive and difficult to treat form of childhood cancer. Fewer than 100 children in the UK are diagnosed with neuroblastoma each year, most of which are below 5 yrs. old and generally have a better prognosis as the older the child is the worse the prognosis is. Since Feb 09, Vanessa has undergone many different treatments at Yorkhill Hospital in Glasgow, these include; 12 rounds of High Dose Chemotherapy, two 7 hour surgical operations, removal of one of her kidneys, a stem cell transplant, Radiotherapy, Retinoic Acid treatment and Immunotherapy treatment……all of which was agonising to watch as parents never mind to have to endure as a child! Having undergone all this difficult and often very painful treatment the fact remained that due to a high relapse rate the long term prognosis for Vanessa’s survival remained very poor with less than a 40% survival rate. All the same, Vanessa finished her treatment at Yorkhill Hospital in Aug 2010 and was given the all clear. In Dec 2011 after routine scans, Connie and I were given the devastating news that Vanessa had relapsed. She has many hotspots on the skull, neck, spine, leg & knees. The UK doctors have told us that this time round there is very little chance of survival; “much less than 10%” they said, as we do not have any relapse protocols in the UK. This is due to the Government not investing any money into relapse treatments for this disease. This is a very different story to the United States & Europe where there are many relapse protocols and taking her there will dramatically increase her chances of long term survival. We now find ourselves in the position of urgently having to take Vanessa abroad for relapse therapy treatment which the NHS will not fund. The treatment Vanessa requires is likely to involve Antibody Therapy and cost in excess of £500,000. Vanessa’s latest scan results will be used to determine which therapy is best. Please help us to raise the funds in order to save Vanessa’s life. Every single penny counts, no matter how little. Thank you for reading and donating Chris & Connie Riddle Websites: www.twitter.com/vanessariddle ,www.twitter.com/chrisriddle17 www.vanessasjourney.com
Hip Hop Superstar Lil Scrappy
J-Bo, Lil Jon, & Too Short made cameo appearances in the video, which premiered January 25, 2007 on BET’s 106 & Park as a New Joint. The song also received significant air play on various urban stations. In late 2008 Lil Scrappy announced that his second studio album would not be released under G-Unit Records or other former label BME Records. Lil Scrappy’s first independent album, Prince of the South, was released on May 13, 2008 through Real Talk Entertainment. The Grustle In early 2009 Lil Scrappy’s announced the title of for his second studio album, Tha Grustle & that he had signed with Ludacris label DTP & it would be distributed through Def Jam. Also in 2009 Lil Scrappy appeared in the motion picuture Just Another Day the tale of the brutal realities of rap music, Scrappy plays a character named Jay. Lil Scrappy’s second independent album, Prince of the South 2, was released on October 19, 2010 through Real Talk Entertainment just like his first independent album. On September 8, 2009 Lil Scrappy released the first single from the album entitled “Addicted To Money” but it failed to reach the Billboard charts so it was dubbed as a promo single. Then On September 28, 2010 Lil Scrappy released the first single from the album “Bad (That’s Her)” which featured Stuey Rock but it also failed to reach the billboard charts so it was dubbed as promo single. On November 2, 2011 after the album never saw an official release, Lil Scrappy announced that the album would be released in early 2012. Lil Scrappy also announced that he and DTP had parted ways and that his G’s Up imprint has partnered with S-Line, a company owned by Lil Scappy’s manager Kevin Clark. G’s Up/S-Line has embarked in a joint venture with Bonzi Records, a label owned by platinum producer J. Wells & will be distributed by Fontana/Universal. The official first single from the album will be “Helicopter” that features 2 Chainz & Twista. The music video premiered on MTV Jams, and was directed by Edgar Esteves. Lil Scrappy’s latest single ‘No Love’ featuring Atlanta’s own Tocarra is featured in the interview. ‘Tha Grustle’ to be released June 26, 2012 don’t miss it!! Keep track of Lil Scrappy as him and Kevin Clark of S-Line Entertainment and the rest of the Grustle Gang take the rest of 2012 by storm making history in Hip Hop once again, his OFFICAL Twitter account is www.twitter.com/reallilscrappy
IFBB Figure Pro Felicia Romero
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_feliciaromero_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Felicia Romero is an IFBB Figure Pro and Sponsored Athlete. She is a native of Arizona, born and raised there, growing playing sports and has always been involved with health and fitness. Felicia ran track and played volleyball and softball in High School and College, her family is extremely athletic so it was only natural for her to excel in sports. She graduated from ASU in 2004 with a B.A. degree in Political Science and aspirations for law school. But during her years in college she became a certified personal trainer and opened up her first personal training studio in Mesa, AZ. Felicia first became a trainer to help get her through college financially, but as the business flourished it became a big part of her life. She says that she has always loved fitness but when she helped change the bodies and lives of so many women, she knew that was really where she wanted to focus her attention. “I entered my first figure competition in 2005 and I loved everything about it. I loved the lifestyle; I loved the mental toughness that I had gained as well as the ability to really transform my body with diet and exercise. From there, I competed in three more competitions and the last being my first national pro show in 2006 in Las Vegas. I took first place in my class and turned pro. I couldn’t believe that I had turned pro at my very first national show. That moment was truly a great moment in my life because I wasn’t expecting that at all. I didn’t set out to turn pro… I just really loved competing. Although getting my pro card was definitely icing on the cake.” said Felicia. Her life has been in constant positive change since turning pro. She has won FIVE pro shows, the most recent being the 2011 California Pro. Top 4 in the 2011 Figure International, top 5 Figure International 2009 and 2010 Top 5 in the world at the 2010 Ms. Figure Olympia. Felicia has been featured in such publications as Muscle and Fitness, Muscle and Fitness Hers, Oxygen and Flex Magazines. In 2008 Felicia landed two magazine covers….one for Muscle and Fitness hers and one for the Flex swimsuit issue and her 3rd cover in 2009 for Flex magazine’s annual swimsuit issue. One of the highlights to date has been gracing the cover of Oxygen magazine in April 2012 and Status Fitness magazine. “Currently, my business partner Whitney Jones and I have opened up AZ Pro Physiques in Gilbert, Arizona. It is a 6000 sq ft studio where we do one on one training as well as group personal training. We have 18 trainers that work for us and have helped hundreds of men and women lose weight and keep it off!! ” said Felicia. “Felicia is a definite example of not taking no for an answer and believing in yourself, her Mom has been her biggest fan and she showed her daughter that life is what you make of it. She has made her own path in her fitness career and academic activities and now she is prepared to take on new challenges whether it be in modeling, fitness or even the world of Hollywood. I have no doubt that she will accomplish whatever she sets her mind to, just look at what she has done to date, the future is very bright for this champion,” stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.azprophysiques.com www.twitter.com/FeliciaRomero www.facebook.com/FeliciaRomeroOnline
Reality Show Star/Casting Agent Erika Landin
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_erikalandin_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Erika Michelle Landin is best known to the masses for her appearance on two seasons of the reality TV show Big Brother, placing fourth in Big Brother 4 in 2003 and placing second in Big Brother: All-Stars in 2006. After Big Brother 4, along with other reality show participants, she appeared in the movie The Scorned, which was aired on the E! TV channel and distributed on DVD. Landin played Sandra in the horror movie, about a group of young adults coming upon a house possibly inhabited by a (thought to be) dead woman. Previously, in 1998, Landin had a minor appearance in the film Dance with Me as a dancer. Landin has also appeared in numerous commercials, and has been on the cover of “Femme Fatales” magazine. Landin is now involved in reality show casting with the firm the Casting Duo, she has casted such reality based show as Survivor 12-16, The Amazing Race 9-21 just recently cast the next Bachelor (Matt Grant) and has worked on shows such as MasterChef, Millionaire Matchmaker, Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, The Fashion Show and The Cougar. “Erika is a definite example of someone that took an opportunity that was put in her lap and saw through the facade to produce a true career opportunity and she is taking her reality show experience and putting it to good use by casting awesome people for some of the highest ranking reality shows on television today, she is a success in every way,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.castingduo.com To apply to be casted for her latest projects see below
Actor, Director & Krav Maga Specialist AJ Draven
A.J. Draven, is the recent winner of the Breakout Action Star Award for his leading role in Showtime’s, ‘Special Ops’ at the Action-On Film Festival. While proficient in various martial arts (Muay Thai Kick Boxing, MMA, and Eskrima) A.J. has risen to the top of one of the most successful self defense and fighting organizations in the United States, Krav Maga Worldwide, where he holds a 3rd degree Black Belt and started the official Krav Maga youth program (KM-X), which is now in over 400 martial arts schools across the world. An expert in both street and military combat tactics, A.J. has trained both Civilians and Law Enforcement Personnel, ranging from LAPD, Beverly Hills SWAT, Army, Air Force, Secret Service, FBI, private security, and various special assignment Anti-Terrorist units. He has now coordinated and choreographed the martial arts in 4 feature films, and has trained and choreographed actors for various television shows including ABC’s ‘Alias’, ‘Being Human,’ ‘Raising Hope’, and ‘The League’, as well as performing stunts and motion capture for popular video game titles such as HALO 4. As an Actor, A.J. has now played the lead role in 3 feature films, and has multiple starring vehicles in various stages of development. Prior to his award winning performance in ‘Special Ops’ (Showtime), A.J. had played the lead role in ‘The Thirst, Blood Wars,’ which currently airs on the Syfy Channel and the Chiller Network. He also has one of the leads in the feature film Absolute Fear, which is released in November 2012. Websites: www.enterthedraven.com www.twitter.com/JohnnyBadAss
Comedian/Actress/Writer Rebecca Corry
Rebecca has shot pilots for CBS, FOX, ESPN, GSN, OXYGEN and was a guest on LOGOS The Gossip Queens and was the new face of 4 international HERTZ spot playing the GAS alongside Owen Wilson as the voice. Rebecca says she understood funny, “when I came out of my mother’s womb thinking… what is this? Some kind of joke?” She was born and raised in the Seattle suburb of Kent, Washington…or as she likes to call it, “the El Camino-driving, hot dog water loving, one-toothed pregnant teen capital of the world.” Rebecca lived in Chicago for 9 years, where she studied writing, acting and improvisation at The Second City, Annoyance and Center Theater. After an 11-month run in the Chicago production of Tony and Tina’s Wedding as the pregnant maid of honor, Corry moved to Los Angeles. Immediately following her arrival she appeared at the HBO workspace in her first one-woman show, “Have You Ever Been Called a Dwarf?”, hosted a pilot for the Oxygen Network and was chosen to perform as a “New Face” at the Montreal Comedy Festival. Shortly after that, she landed a memorable role as Paul Giamatti’s receptionist, Astrid Barker, in the feature film “BIG FAT LIAR.” She then guest-starred on CBS’s “Yes, Dear” and was in a national commercial campaign for Gallo wine. Between performing at clubs like The Improv, The Ice House, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and many more, Rebecca hosted the second season of “Mix It Up.” The interior design show created and executive produced by Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette. She went on to guest star on “The King of Queens,” “The Bernie Mac Show,” “The Wayne Brady Show,” NBC’s “Late Friday,” “Comics Unleashed,” E’s 101 series,” Comedy Central’s Premium Blend” and Rules Of Engagement. Her second one woman show “REBECCA CORRY WITH BALLS” was the LA Weekly’s “Comedy Pick of the Week.” Rebecca beat out thousands to become a finalist on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing 4” and currently headlines at universities and clubs around the country. Rebecca’s 1/2 hour COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS special can be seen on Comedy Central and her first one hour special Thanks, God, is available now on DVD! Currently, Rebecca is commenting on VH1’s TOP 100 SEXY SINGERS. Rebecca’s true passions are comedy and animal rescue and she travels the country with her beautiful rescued Pitbull named Angel. If you see them in your town or on your plane…be sure to say hello! “Rebecca is not only a true entertainer but she uses that star power to do good in the world, her heart is as big as her future and thats pretty big, its always good to know that one person has the ability to invoke some change for the better in the world, this is something that this comedian/actress strives to do and I commend her for it” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rebeccacorry.com www.twitter.com/therebeccacorry http://www.youtube.com/user/518rebecca Check out 2 Manly Ladies at: www.swirlaroo.com
Travel Channel’s Food Wars Host Camille Ford
Camille is presently the host of Design Wars on HGTV, The Movie Show for In Demand, Food Wars and Best Places I’ve Ever Been on Travel Channel. Aside from being a TV personality, she is an Ambassador for Lululemon, Adventure Guide, advocate for human rights, and owner of Sassy Pole Girls (featured on MTV & TLC). She is also ranked in the Top 100 Sexiest female celebrities for 2011 and 2012 by Smartasses.net She is an award-winning producer and performer for various radio programs, theater, webisodes, standup comedy, commercials, and independent films. Receiving multiple Innovative Theatre Award nominations. She was recognized in Time Out Magazine for most promising actor and was listed in NY Magazine’s “Top Picks”. She has also worked with notable chefs, personalities, and athletes. Her passion for is for life, food, and learning is contagious. She has been mentioned in a multitude of websites, articles, and books. Within 2 months of her first show being on air she had 30,000+ followers on Facebook. Her goal: “Inspire people to get hungry for life! Mentally and physically challenging others is my greatest pleasure. Whether it’s on a plate, in a classroom, or up a mountain; humor, knowledge, and compassion are vital for building successful communities and individuals”. Some favorite activities and favorite places: Spelunking (Honduras), Scaling glaciers (Iceland), Moose hunting (Canada), Backpacking (Hawaii), Motorcycle riding (Egypt), Kayaking (Jordan River), Rock climbing (Zion canyon), Sailing (Croatia), Cattle wrangling (Arizona), Women’s rugby, Competitive soccer, Beach volleyball, trail running, backcountry skiing, skydiving, DWS, scuba… you get the idea. “Cammie is such a dynamite person, her view on life is something that everyone can learn from, live life to the fullest. Her future just continues to get brighter and brighter, from TV to off Broadway to the bookshelves and your local video store, you’re going to hear a lot about Camille Ford in the months and years to come , she’s what others should look to when they want to be inspired”, stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.camillefordofficialsite.com www.twitter.com/camiford http://www.sassypolegirls.com/
Host and Actress Pili Montilla
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_pilimontilla_interviewucw.mp3 Without a doubt, Pili Montilla is the new latina. She represents biculturalism & bilingualism in a smart, approachable, energetic way. Her strengths include her interviewing skills, power to entertain in front of a live audience, unique personality and her music, fashion and entertainment knowledge. These strengths have led her to interview the biggest music and movie artists in the world. Actress and host, Pili has incredible presence and a charming personality. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico Pili has shown a great interest in the arts from a very early age. With a B.A. in Dramatic Arts from Boston College and performing art studies from Oxford University, University of London, M& M Studios in Mexico City, Cay Michael Patten Studios in New York City and Puerto Rico, Pili has the discipline, the personality and most importantly the desire to rise to the top. For over two years Pili was the host of LATV’s entertainment show, En la Zona. Pili was also the host of LATV’s famous show LATV En Concierto where she interviewed an invited artist (Julieta Venegas, Cristian Castro, Luis Fonsi, are a few examples) for a half hour in front of a live audience. Pili has had the chance to travel and cover important events such as Festival de la Calle 8 in Miami, Los Premios Billboard, Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) and the Latin Grammys. She also covers red carpets and junkets for important films like ‘Valentine’s Day’ (Ashton Kutcher), ‘Edge of Darkness’ (Mel Gibson) & ‘The Blind Side’ (Sandra Bullock), among many other films and artists. Pili helped create www.sonidolounge.com where she hosted and produced this half hour broadband music show. Before moving to Los Angeles, Pili was seen daily as the main VJ for MTV PR for two years. It was here where she hosted various segments and programs: Fashion & Beauty Tips, MTV PR News, Top Ten Countdown, interviews, voiceovers and the movie segment Flick’d. Pili was responsible for the research, writing and memorizing the content of these segments. She was also called upon to host different specials, such as MTV 2’s $2 Bill Concert in the Bronx, New York, MTV PR’s My Barrio and the Green Carpet at Los Premios MTV in Mexico City. Her ability to make artists and celebrities feel comfortable has earned her the opportunity to interview some of the hottest Latin and international artists including Ricky Martin, Gwen Steffani, Daddy Yankee, Hillary Duff, Calle 13, Shakira and Nelly Furtado among others. Formally trained as a dancer and actress, Pili has appeared in numerous entertainment venues. Some of her projects have included a recurring role as the villain Nancy in the soap opera Duena y Senora and Telemundo‘s Decisiones. She has also participated in various theater productions as well as musicals. She received great critic reviews for her performance as Judy in the musical A Chorus Line. Her role as Isabel on the soap Don Amor for Canal 13-Chile caused great commotion and quickly grabbed the attention of the press. Pili is also a radio personality. In fact she is the only female voice of one of Puerto Rico’s most popular radio station, Toca de To 102.5 where she has been hosting the ’20 Online’ radio show for four years. Her presence has raised the show’s ratings making it #1 in it’s category. Currently, Pili works for the new Direct TV channel ‘Video Exitos’ where she host their daily show ‘Top DS’ and gets to interview the biggest names in Latin music. She is also the Hollywood correspondent for VMe TV’s movie show, ‘En Pantalla.’ Her fame has extended to Honduras where she is the spokesperson for the #1 local beer, SAB Miller’s Barena. Her relationship with the brand extends to hosting their biggest events, interviewing and filming segments and commercials for the brand. This experience lead her to work for E! Latino and their show ‘It’s Hot!’ Her experience as an entertainment reporter and actor has helped her expand her brand to Mexico where she was approached by the editor of the fastest growing newspaper in the world, ‘Publimetro’ to write a weekly column titled ‘Pili. . .desde Hollywood’. It has been an enormous success and it is now published in Monterrey and Mexico City. Pili’s poise in front of the camera has also led to various hosting gigs for different clients such as 5 Gum, AXE, Sunsilk, Burger King, Fiji Water among others. However, Pili also expresses concern for the youth and society in general. Thus, she’s participated as spokesperson for the National Heart Day, John Dewey College Campaign coaching high school kids to pursue a college degree and Si Bebes, No Guies campaign promoting young men and women not to drink and drive. She is also a spokesperson for ‘Voces’ a non-profit organization that helps the public education system in Puerto Rico by rebuilding school structures, giving monetary incentive to teachers & motivating students. She is fully bilingual in both Spanish and English and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. www.pilimontilla.com www.twitter.com/pilimontilla
Wall Street Journal’s Lee Hawkins
Lee Hawkins is a Wall Street Journal staff reporter and has been an on-air contributor at CNBC Television as part of The Journal’s content sharing agreement with the network since 2007. He is also author of Newbo Nation: America’s New Black Overclass where he addresses the new generation of black entrepreneurs in the sports, entertainment and media industries who have arisen in the last decade to create the largest population of black multimillionaires in history. It includes statistical and earnings data related blacks in the three industries and in-depth narrative reporting based on the lives of several of the most influential young black celebrities and behind-the-scenes entrepreneurs in America. The book will be launched during the NBA Finals. Hawkins is the host of the primetime one-hour documentary with the same title, Newbos: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass, which is based on some of the reporting from his book. Hawkins hopes to spark a national conversation about the role of black celebrities in the Obama age. The television special and the book call for a new era of entrepreneurship, collaboration, intergenerational mentorship, educational advancement, social awareness and accountability within this growing class. The project inspires, encourages and educates the millions of young Americans who hope to build brands, businesses and careers in the sports, entertainment and media industries. Previously, Hawkins covered General Motors Corp. from the Detroit bureau for The Journal. He began the assignment with CNBC after appearing frequently on CNBC as a guest commentator. Prior to covering GM and the challenges facing America’s Big Three automakers, Hawkins worked as a business reporter for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and the Wisconsin State Journal. Hawkins is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he was the editorial page editor of the Badger Herald student newspaper. “Lee is one of those people that looks beyond the obvious and tries to bring the human element into his journalism, showing you a side of celebrities or sports figures that normally you won’t see and those are the stories that inspire people not the sound bytes that make headlines, he’s a path maker and look forward to seeing his future shine bright for years to come”, stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.youtube.com/user/WSJDigitalNetwork www.twitter.com/leehawkins
DIY Mega Dens Host Anitra Mecadon
Highly charismatic, on the cutting edge and not afraid to get her hands dirty, Anitra Mecadon has designed some of the most well-known, hip, and edgy restaurants, residences, boutiques, galleries, and other spaces in Atlanta for the past 10 years. With a strong background in art and theater, combined with a degree in interior design, she creates inspiring interiors and exteriors. Whether she’s dangling from a scaffold or breaking down a concrete wall, Anitra’s rock ‘n’ roll approach gives her an edge not usually found in most designers. On DIY Network’s Mega Dens, Anitra designs and builds the ultimate rec room sanctuaries that exceed any family’s wildest imagination. These unbelievable room renovations feature incredible home theaters, innovative gaming areas, clever storage solutions and more. She had dreams at a young age to be able to grow in the entertainment business doing what she loves to do and using her creativity. Her story is one of persistence and it was a by chance video submission that landed her in front of a decision maker that said this girl is a star, and a star she has become tackling whatever obstacles come her way. Anitra is a prime example of someone never giving up on their dream and she never has given up on it and now she is living her dream. She is going to become a staple in the DIY and actually reality TV realm for some time to come. “Anitra Mecadon is by far one of the most grounded and sensational guests that I have had on the show, her vibrancy and zest not only for life but for what she does for a living is uncanny. If I had to make a comparison I would say that Anitra is to DIY that Rachel Ray has been for the Food Network, she is a definite gem” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.anitramecadon.com http://www.diynetwork.com/anitra-mecadon/bio/index.html www.twitter.com/anitramecadon
Actor, Author and Acclaimed Keynote Speaker James Mapes
James Mapes is the founder of Quantum Leap Thinking™, creator of The Transformational Coach™, expert on the psychology of “applied imagination,” best- selling author, highly acclaimed business speaker, consultant, seminar leader and personal excellence coach. For over 30 years, James has been an ardent student of human behavior and dedicated to helping individuals, teams and organizations identify and break through barriers to reach their goals and achieve success. He encourages people to be open to new ways of thinking, and his goal is to help everyone make the “quantum leap” toward more creative, productive and confident lives. For both businesses and individuals, his message promotes an innovative, powerful way of thinking and provides a new-found mastery over their imagination and perceptions so that, in his words, “the invisible becomes visible and the impossible becomes possible.” The results have been nothing short of extraordinary, creating key breakthroughs in both organizational and personal excellence. James Mapes’ success as a speaker and highly regarded authority on the imagination, creative thinking, communication, managing change, organizational problem-solving, successful teamwork and coaching is due to his early training as an actor and experience as a theatrical producer. In 1969, he graduated from California State University with a Master of Arts degree in theater and speech. He then worked in repertory theater, off-Broadway and directed two of his own theater companies, amassing dozens of television and movie credits. As a performer, he developed a unique stage presence with a special talent for connecting with his audience. Mapes’ work has earned him appearances on CNN, The Today Show, Good Morning America and Fox Family Channel, among other media outlets. As a recognized business speaker and performance coach, James has spoken to hundreds of public and private companies in more than 70 countries. His clients include financial institutions, software companies, the military, the healthcare industry, financial institutions, training and development divisions of large corporations and major non-profit organizations. Companies, associations, universities and business schools including – IBM Corporate, U.S. Coast Guard, Lockheed Martin and The Princeton Center for Leadership Training – have quoted Mapes in training manuals and textbooks. James Mapes personal goal of living an exceptional life is reflected in both his business activities as well as his recreational pursuits, which range from scuba-diving, ballooning, racecar driving, Kempo Karate, and world travel, to an avid interest in reading. His two highly regarded books areQuantum Leap Thinking: An Owner’s Guide to the Mind and The Workbook: The Magic of Quantum Leap Thinking. His new book The Elephant and the Rider: Living an Exceptional Life is scheduled for publication in 2012. James Mapes presentations are personal, interactive and humorous. Above all, he creates results and makes a lasting difference in the energy level, commitment and productivity of each individual in his audience. In the 1970′s, James became interested in the power of the subconscious mind. To better understand this intriguing area, he researched psychology, philosophy, neurology and eventually, hypnotherapy Neuro-Linguistic Programming. His expertise quickly earned him recognition as a clinical hypnotist, becoming highly effective in assisting clients in weight reduction, smoking cessation, the elimination of phobias and pain reduction for terminally ill cancer patients. As a skilled practitioner of regression techniques, he helped the New York City Police Department in “memory recovery” with both witnesses to, and victims of, crime and he has worked with professional athletes to help improve their performance in their sport. James Mapes has created an ongoing series of self-improvement audio recordings and writes a syndicated newspaper column for Hearst newspapers in Connecticut and The Arizona Reporter. James also enjoys presenting his one-man show, Journey Into the Imagination at performing arts centers and universities around the country. He appeared on Broadway in 2003 and presented A Whirlwind Tour of the Mind at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in Manhattan in 2007. When not touring, James and his wife divide their time between residences in Westport, Connecticut, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Websites: www.jamesmapes.com www.twitter.com/jamesmapes
TV Sitcom Star/Minister Demond Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_demondwilson_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have one of the stars of the hit TV sitcom of the 1970’s, “Sanford & Son” on the show. Demond Wilson along with his co-star Redd Foxx set the entertainment world on fire during the 1970’s by opening up doors that were closed for African Americans, in short they were pioneers. Growing up with great direction for his parents Wilson set out on a journey which put God first in his life, with his family at a close second and his career, ministry or entertainment, dead last. Demond Wilson was born in Valdosta, Ga., on Oct. 13, 1946. His parents were South Georgia natives. Early in childhood his family relocated to New York, where the future TV star began acting on-stage at the age of six. Between appearances on Broadway and growing up in Manhattan, he would visit his grandmother and relatives back in Georgia each summer. He loved to go fishing for catfish in the local creek, and along with his cousins he sold boiled peanuts at the Valdosta train station. As his acting career was blossoming, Uncle Sam came calling. Wilson was drafted into the Army, and was sent south to Ft. Jackson, S.C., Ft. Lee, Va., and Ft. Gordon, Ga. Vietnam was his ultimate destination. He became a decorated soldier during his tour of duty in 1966. “I was a warrior. At 62, I’m still a warrior. I’m a warrior for Jesus in the army of the Lord. But when you got to Vietnam, everybody was your brother. The staunchest redneck racist became your brother, because you have to depend on each other to stay alive.” Upon returning to the States, Wilson was blindsided by the anti-war movement, which yelled at him for wearing his uniform and showcasing his medals. He had a hard time getting a job, and decided to give the profession he’d been tinkering with since childhood an all-out try. It worked. Wilson earned the role of “Charlie Blossom” in the 1971 Sidney Poitier film The Organization, which was filmed in San Francisco. This westward move soon led to a cameo as a comedic burglar in an episode of All In The Family. The producers of a new NBC sitcom caught Wilson’s performance on the Carroll O’Connor comedy, and invited him to audition for a role that would forever change his life. The pilot episode of Sanford And Son was shot in the fall of 1971, and debuted to impressive ratings on Jan. 14, 1972. The show’s unforgettable opening, complete with a catchy Quincy Jones theme song, features Wilson driving around in a beat-up 1951 Ford pickup truck, emblazoned with a “Sanford And Son” logo on the side. The rising actor played the role of “Lamont Sanford,” alongside Missouri comedian Redd Foxx, who played the role of “Fred G. Sanford,” a junk peddler in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. He and Foxx had not known each other before the show, but they quickly bonded and their relationship on and off-screen was magical. Wilson writes about this in his new book, Second Banana: The Bitter Sweet Memoirs Of The Sanford And Son Years. A successful comedic pairing requires a clown and straight man, Wilson points out. He played the straight man perfectly on this sitcom, which rose to No. 2 in the ratings during its 1972-77 run. Sanford And Son was the first black TV show to hit the ratings jackpot. However, the Norman Lear-produced show did require some tinkering by Wilson and Foxx. A team of mostly Jewish writers penned the show, and the dialogue of each episode had to be re-written and ad-libbed by the black actors. Almost 40 years after the show premiered, it continues to air in syndication in over 40 countries around the world. TV Land broadcasts the show to over 93 million U.S. homes. The success of Sanford And Son has led to many falsehoods about Wilson, rumors that he addresses in the new book. He says that he thought once and for all he would set it straight and tell the truth. He was never addicted to cocaine, and he didn’t become angry and chase Lear down the hall with a gun, a rumor that gives him a good laugh. After Sanford And Son ended in 1977, Wilson appeared on other TV shows, including Baby, I’m Back, and The New Odd Couple. Wilson’s small screen gigs took a back seat in the 1980s when he became an evangelical minister. He’s traveled the world to spread the Gospel. He’s also led a prison ministry. In recent months Wilson has come out of acting hibernation, where he’s combined his love of the Lord with acting in the forthcoming Christian movie Faith Ties, which is kind of a black version of It’s A Wonderful Life. He stars in the role of a millionaire that loses everything and becomes a homeless drunk. In Palm Desert, the Southern Californian with a Southern upbringing lives with his wife of 36 years, Cicely. The couple have six children, and three grandchildren. “Demond Wilson is one of the classiest guys in Entertainment, his view on life and entrepreneurship in America should be listen to by many people wondering what is that disconnect in today’s America. His commitment to God and Family, and his trials and tribulations that he went through as he and Redd Foxx laid the groundwork for other African Americans to excel in the entertainment business is not only impressive but very much so downplayed by the media. I have to say after speaking with him I gained a respect for him as a person which will never wither,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. “Demond Wilson’s book Second Banana is a must read for anyone that truly wants to know how he and Redd Foxx paved the way for African Americans in the TV arena,” Velazquez added. Websites: http://www.2ndbanana.net/ www.demondwilson.com www.twitter.com/demondwilson
Comedian / Actor / Producer Dexter Tucker
Dexter Tucker is An Actor, Comedian, Producer and Writer from Decatur, GA and are a mere sampling of adjectives to describe a man with so many talents. Dexter Tucker’s hilarious and charming comedy style has granted him respect and created a huge demand for him on the comedy circuit in the states as well as abroad. He has starring roles in movies such as “The Comedy Club”, “Black Men Can Swim”, “Playa in the Pulpit”, and “Treasure in the Hood”. He has graced the stage in an inspirational play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man”, “If You Don’t Tell, I Won’t Tell”, starring Don “DC Curry” and Gary “Lil G” Jenkins (SILK). “Money Talk”, “So Fresh & So Clean”, and “My Big Phat Hiphop Family” and coming soon to theatres in the fall of 2009 “Lynch Mob” are a list of Dexter’s featured movies roles. Currently Dexter is producing, directing and starring in the up coming blockbuster movie “The Comedy Club” due to premier in theaters late 2011, early 2012. In addition to these various roles, Dexter is the writer and creative director behind this hilarious film starring Chrystale Wilson, Shae Johnson, comedian Honey Bunz and an all-star cast of nationally known comics. dexter has taken his talents further and had stepped behind the cameras and is the writer and director of a reality show call DreamGirls of the ATL. Dexter has entertained the comedy stage throughout the U.S. such as The Comedy Union in Los Angeles, The Miami Improv Comedy Club, Atlanta’s Uptown Comedy Corner and Punchline Comedy Club and Birmingham’s Stardome Comedy Club just to name a few. Dexter is currently touring with the play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man” and also with various other entertainers doing what he loves the most, Comedy. He has appeared on the Tom Joyner’s Fantastic Voyage Cruise 2007. In the past years, he was the host for the Gerald Levert/Will Downing Tour and also for Chastain Park, Patti Labelle Concert Tour and Frankie Beverly and Maze featuring EnVogue concert tour in Atlanta, GA. Dexter has entertained audiences on the nation’s hottest comedy TV shows; BET’S Comicview and HBO’s Robert Townsend: Partner in Crime. Dexter Tucker is a rising star. A force to be reckoned with, he has a natural born gift of entertainment. Dexter continues to entertain audiences with joyful tears and laughter as he showcases his talent to the world. Websites: www.dextertucker.com
Actress / Model / Humanitarian Cassandra Hepburn
Cassandra Hepburn was born to an English military official named Lewis and a Chinese/Philippine mother Nellie on a small island off the coast of the Philippines called Leyte Island. At an early age Cassandra decided that acting was her life’s calling. She was only 12 when she made her acting debut in Stephen King’s “The Stand.” After graduating High School at 14, she moved to New York to fully devote herself to the perfection of her craft, this led to a brief stint on the popular daytime soap “As The World Turns.” Cassandra eventually moved to Paris to model with some of the top designers in the world. She graced the modeling scene and worked for designers such as Sonia Rykiel while living and studying in France. In 1999, Cassandra also spent some time at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) taking courses in Classical and Shakespearean acting. She has shared the screen with Dennis Hopper and Michael Madsen in Quentin Tarantino Presents: Hellride directed by Larry Bishop (Kill Bill) which was the most anticipated film at Sundance in 2008. She worked alongside Matthew McConaughey in Surfer Dude playing Woody Harrelson’s wife, Luanne. Cassandra has also worked with such stars as Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger and Ray Liota in Even Money directed by Mark Rydell, as well as a supporting role in Sydney Lumet’s Find Me Guilty, starring Vin Diesel. Cassandra has also made a number of appearances on the small screen, the most notable to date being a guest star in the TV series Medium, starring Patricia Arquette as well as a reoccurring role on The Young and the Restless. “Cassandra is what most should aspire to be, someone that not only wanted to be a dreamer but wanted to live her dreams while doing good in the world, her off screen efforts is what makes her an amazing person, I am honored to know her and look forward to seeing this shinning start illuminate brighter than ever before.” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.cassandrahepburn.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1141576/bio
Actress / Model / Recording Artist Amy Weber
Amy Weber grew up in Mapleton, Illinois before her family relocated to Florida, just before she was to begin high school. Her childhood was hardly idyllic, as she was forced to race motorcycles by her father, who wasn’t the easiest man to disappoint. Still, Weber managed to maintain a healthy high school existence, starring on the varsity track team, the debate team and the cheerleading squad. Although Amy’s parents pressured their daughter to attend university, Amy grew weary of school after her first year at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and decided to drive all the way from Florida to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. Amy Weber’s rise in Hollywood came fast and hard. After arriving in Los Angeles not knowing a single soul, Weber quickly landed an agent, which led to consistent work in commercials for Wrigley’s, 7-Up and Nestea. As her profile started to grow, Weber landed plum roles in the soap operas Port Charles and The Young and the Restless, while guest starring in iconic shows like CSI: Las Vegas, Saved by the Bell, Melrose Place, Pacific Blue, 7th Heaven, and City Guys. Weber’s most famous television role to date has to be that of Porcelain Bidet on the Howard Stern-produced hit FX series, Son of the Beach. After a nationwide search for the next WWE Diva, Amy Weber was selected to join WWE SmackDown. Although she was given a string of meaty plot lines, including a rivalry with Joy Giovanni, and an alliance with John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Weber never felt truly comfortable as a member of the WWE. In 2005, she announced her retirement amid allegations of inappropriate behavior by her fellow wrestlers. After the deflating experience of the WWE, Amy Weber used her augmented profile to book roles in several feature films including The Bet , The Contract, Becoming Pony Boi , Transmorphers, Diablita, and The Pumpkin Karver. She also began Amy Weber Productions, wrote the book An Insider’s Guide to Making It in Show Business, hosted the show Good Samaritans, and even is a recording artist, and in the middle of her busy career she has found the time to have a family and be an awesome mother to her twin children Madison and Levi who just turned 3 years old. Her latest song “Let it Rain” is topping the charts on a global basis and she hopes to perform in front of a massive audience in the very near future, you’ll have to listen to the show to find out more. “I feature many guests on my show and Amy’s story is one of a true warrior, facing adversity at its highest level since childhood but grinning, moving forward and becoming successful in every arena she focused on, it was an honor having her on the show,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.amyweber.com www.twitter.com/therealamyweber
Comedian / Actor / Producer Stevie D
2020 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-06-UCWRadio_StevieD_11052020.mp3 2012 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_stevied_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Stevie D. is a comedian, actor and producer. Stevie has made his mark in the stand-up comedy world with his high energy, rock n roll take of everything from pop culture to what it is was like growing up a white trash hillbilly in Kentucky. Since the release of the successful DVD Rockstars of Comedy, which he produced and created, he has started his own production company, Blue Moon Media Group, that now has television projects in the works with Tommy Lee, UFC Champion- Rich Franklin, HotRod Builder of the Year- Troy Ladd, among others. While building his brand and creating mayhem in Hollywood, Stevie continues his life long quest to put Ryan Seacrest out of business. “Stevie D is one of those Hollywood folk that has faced major adversity in his life but not only forges forward to achieve greatness but he also pays it forward by opening up doors for up and comers, whether it be in comedy, reality TV or film, he is a true path maker in entertainment,” state UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rockstarsofcomedy.com 2021 Interview
Actor/Martial Artist Phil Morris
2021 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_PhilMorris_10152021.mp3 2010 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_philmorris_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity and honor to have the great actor Phil Morris on the show. Phil Morris is what most people should aspire to be in life, he has tirelessly worked towards perfecting his craft all the while seizes as many opportunities as he could along the way. He has stared in countless films and television series’ and he is still going strong by following the same path that has brought him success, which is hard word, a respect for not only the entertainment business and the art of performing but also for himself by aligning himself with projects with meaning, and its not all about the money with Phil Morris, its about being a part of something greater than himself. He is a man of high integrity and being a Hollywood mainstay has not jaded himself in the least. Although he was around many major television and film stars growing up due to his father, Greg Morris, and his role on Mission Impossible, the original series. Ironically Phil had the unique opportunity to revive that role in Mission Impossible in 1988. He has accomplished so many things during his career its staggering. He has studied Martial Arts for well over 25 years and continues to do so to this day, being a high ranking practitioner in the art of Wing Chun. He is truly a great person, not only for his accomplishments but for his view of the world and his actions, which speak so much louder than his words. More about Phil Morris: Morris played a recurring character, the Johnnie Cochran-inspired defense attorney Jackie Chiles, on Seinfeld. Morris also co-starred in the remake of Mission: Impossible as tech wizard Grant Collier (son of Barney Collier, who was played in the original series by Morris’ real-life father Greg Morris). Morris’ first acting role was as a child when he appeared in the 1966 Star Trek episode “Miri”. Star Trek was, at the time, shot at the same studio that produced Mission: Impossible, where his father was working. He made his feature film debut in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock in a small role and later guest-starred on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager. Morris voiced the supporting role of Dr. Sweet in Disney’s 2001 film Atlantis: The Lost Empire as well as its 2003 sequel, Atlantis: Milo’s Return. Morris played one of Will Smith’s college professors on the NBC show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and played Dr. Clay Spencer on the then-UPN television show Girlfriends. In the January 25, 2007, episode of the CW television series Smallville, Morris also portrayed the DC Comics superhero The Martian Manhunter/John Jones, which is a recurring but small character in the series so far. He reprised that role on the show’s sixth season finale on May 17, 2007, as well as the episodes “Bizarro” and “Cure” in the seventh season and the episodes “Odyssey”, “Prey” and “Bulletproof” in the eighth season. As a voice actor, he portrayed the villains Imperiex on Legion of Superheroes, and as the Immortal Caveman Vandal Savage on Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. He appeared on one episode each of the series CSI: Miami and Seven Days. Though largely unnoticed, Morris also was the voice of Paul the Apostle in Zondervan’s The Bible Experience. Morris also made a cameo appearance as the late Miles Dyson in photographs in the television series Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. He currently voices the character ‘Doc Saturday’ in the animated show The Secret Saturdays. He also played a major supporting role in the PS2 game Ratchet: Deadlocked, Merc, one of the combat bots that accompany Ratchet during his journey. Websites: www.twitter.com/thephilmorris
Award Winning Actor, Writer & Director Jared Cohn
Jared Cohn is an award winning actor/director and writer. Having appeared in over 30 movies and television shows, on various networks throughout the world, Jared works quite a bit in front of the camera. Behind the camera, Jared recently wrote and directed Lifetime’s hit movie, BORN BAD, which stars Michael Welch from Twilight, currently playing on Lifetime and available in Redbox and on Netflix. More on the writing: Jared’s script TRACED won first place in the writemovies.com #27 contest. TRACED is currently in development. Jared just booked the lead role in Peter Proffit’s FEED THE DEVIL which is set to start shooting in May 2012, in Montreal. Jared just wrapped BIKINI SPRING BREAK starring Robert Carradine, filmed in LA. Jared wrote and directed the movie for The Asylum. This will be his 6th Asylum Movie, he acted in 4 and directed two for them. It has been a successful and busy year so far for Mr. Cohn! Websites: www.jaredcohn.com www.twitter.com/TrapLightMedia
Recording Artist From The Future Sidney B
Year:2158. 95% of the human beings are not capable of any emotion. Imagination and dreams are produced artificially. Only a few people far from cities were still resisting, among them scientists…Their only option was to send one of them in the past to prevent the extinction of the human feelings. After decades of hard work ,they finally found the way to travel back in time. A young man was chosen for this crucial mission. His name: Sidney B. He arrived on earth in Nice ,France. Decided to make a revolution using the medium of art. Sidney B started his career in acting. Delving into music, he was part of a rap group called Hors du Com 1 and achieved success selling over 5000 albums. He has composed for numerous hip-hop artists, short film sound tracks and for theatre pieces. He also participated in a project called Armonia with the classical music composer Sebastian Damiani which sold over 500,000 units. He also won the “best in show” award and the “best emerging artist” award at the European indie festival, 2008. Sidney B. traveled the world living in London, Montreal, Miami and Mexico making music with local artists and performing in numerous venues. He even spent a month living in a tribe in small island lost in the pacific. Fishing ,hunting and making music with the indigenous. All this adventures made him a better human and better artist. The Revolution could begin… Sidney B has since found a new home in Toronto, Canada where he’s focusing on his solo career as an artist as well as a producer and songwriter. He worked on upcoming projects for Ludacris, Tamia, Jully Black, Universal Canada and Warner Music. And he’s about to release next summer, his new EP called “Join The Revolution” . The First Single “Can’t fight the Feeling” released in 2010 won the best international pop song at the Toronto exclusive Award. His second single “Boy Toy” will be released May 2011,but is already getting a great buzz all over the web. Websites: www.sidneyb.com
Former Pussycat Doll and Now Solo Recording Artist Kaya Jones
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Recording Artist Kaya Jones on the Show. Kaya Jones, former member of the world famous Pussycat Dolls, is poised for an exciting time as the summer of 2009 closes in. Launching her much anticipated solo album, and performing live shows around the globe, Kaya is developing a strong presence in the realm of new media and positioning herself to become an international pop sensation. Kaya was initially signed as a solo artist by R. Kelly, and Capital Records before attending the open audition for the Pussycat Dolls in 2003. During the week long audition, Kaya out performed over 2,000 girls to land a leading role in the girl group. While with the Dolls, she performed at the MTV Asia Award’s, MTV’s Rock the Vote, VH1’s Diva’s Live, VH1’s Fashion Rocks, and appeared in live performance’s featuring Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Simpson, Gwen Stefani, Fergie, and other world renowned stars. The media hype the Dolls attracted landed them on the magazine covers of Esquire, Interview, Maxim, Stuff, FHM, Blender, Guitar, and Us Weekly. At these photo shoots, Kaya’s exotic looks; Jamaican-Italian heritage, 5’11 height, and natural blonde hair, caught the attention of several major New York modeling executives. In 2006, Kaya left the Pussycat Dolls to pursue a modeling career, and brand herself as a solo musical artist. She appeared in the Eminem/D12 video “How Come”, and was featured in marketing campaigns for Merlin Castell, Mis Cositas, YMI Jeans, Rock & Republic, and Redken. Vocally, Kaya has been credited on the “Alfie”, “Shall We Dance”, and “Shark Tale” movie soundtracks, and was nominated and won a Golden Globe award, with Mick Jagger and Katy Perry, for Old habits die hard” from the “Alfie” movie soundtrack. Kaya’s first new single “Hollywood Doll” was recently released in numerous radio markets throughout North America, and is now available at iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, etc. She has two additional singles debuting in the new American Pie movie, and her album is scheduled for release early next year. “Kaya Jones is one to look out for on the music scene, although she’s going solo she has worked with some of the best in the business for years, beyond being talented and beautiful, she has the smarts to go far as a solo artist, we see great things coming out of this young star, so keep an eye out for her” said Louis Velazquez UCW Radio Host Website: www.kayajonesmusic.com
Natural Mr. Olympia and Author John Hansen
John Hansen is a true Natural Bodybuilder, from the time he was a teenager until his retirement from competitive bodybuilding he has held true to his title of Natural Mr. Olympia. He is the very first bodybuilder to be crowned the Natural Mr. Olympia and that took place in 1998 in Greece. To this day the modern day natural warrior John Hansen continues to wow the crowds with both his accomplishments and his knowledge, from the average Joe to a competitive athlete, Hansen has brought much to the table during his career and beyond. Some of his accomplishments are as follows: Major Wins 1998 Natural Olympia – Professional Division 1996 Natural Mr. Universe – Professional Division 1996 AAU Mr. Illinois – Short Class 1992 Natural Mr. Universe – Overall Winner 1992 Natural Mr. North America – Overall Winner 1992 NPC Natural Illinois – Light Heavyweight Winner 1990 NPC Illinois Cup – Light Heavyweight Winner 1986 NPC Mid-America – Heavyweight Winner 1986 NPC Illinois State Championships – Overall Winner 1981 AAU Teenage Midwest Open – Medium Class Winner Mr. Natural Olympia John Hansen first became interested in the sport of bodybuilding as a very young man. An avid comic book reader, John was fascinated with the physiques of the colorful superheroes he read about in the comic books. They were so muscular and impressive that they captured his imagination and he couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to have a body like that. Several years later, John began to idolize the late martial arts superstar Bruce Lee. He was intrigued with Lee after seeing a picture of him with his shirt off from the movie “Enter the Dragon”. Bruce Lee was the only person he had ever seen who looked like the superheroes he had read about in the comic books. John soon adopted Bruce Lee’s training regimen so he could develop a body similar to the kung fu superstar. He started jogging, took karate classes at the local park district, did push-ups, sit-ups and chin-ups on a daily basis and eventually started lifting weights. When he began lifting weights, John had to buy some bodybuilding magazines to learn how to perform the various exercises needed to develop his body. When he saw the incredible physiques on the bodybuilders featured in the magazines such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno and Franco Columbu , John knew that this is what he wanted to do with his life. He began training for bodybuilding at 14 years old, right before beginning his freshman year in high school. Although he only weighed a skinny 135 pounds, it didn’t take long for John to tell everyone what he wanted to accomplish. “I’m going to be Mr. Universe someday”, he would say. Of course, no one took him seriously. John began competing in bodybuilding contests two years later at 16 years old. Over the next 3 years, he competed in 10 teenage bodybuilding competitions, eventually winning the Teenage Midwest Open at 18 years old and taking 5th place at the Teenage Mr. America contest when he was 19. After his teenage years were over, John realized he would have to get much bigger before competing with the big boys. He used the next 2 years to “bulk up”, going from 180 pounds at 19 years old to 205 pounds at 20 years old and 230 pounds by the time he was 21 years old. John competed in the Illinois State Bodybuilding Championships at 22 years old, taking third place in the heavyweight class. His goal was to win state and regional level competitions before going on to the national level and eventually to the Mr. Universe contest. The following year, John won the heavyweight and overall title of the 1986 Illinois State Bodybuilding Championships. Two weeks later, he also won the Mid-America Championships in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Now he had accomplished his goal of winning bodybuilding championships at the state and regional level. Over the next few years, John continued to place high at the regional level but failed to win at the national level. It was during this time that John learned about the extent of steroid use in bodybuilding. Most of the competitors at the national level were using high amounts of steroids, cycling them year round. Even the female athletes were using steroids and other drugs to get an edge on the competition. It was at this point that John had to make a decision about his future in the sport. If he wanted to win at the national level and beyond, it was inevitable that he would also have to resort to using steroids in the same manner his competitors were. Fortunately, John made the wise decision to turn away from competition at that level and compete only in natural or drug-tested bodybuilding contests. Competing in these contests would insure that the winner would rely only on training, nutrition and supplementation to win and would not be allowed to use steroids, growth hormone, diuretics or any of the other drugs that were being used in competition. In 1991, John took second place at the Natural Illinois Bodybuilding Championships. The following year, John was victorious at the 1992 Natural Illinois and then went to San Francisco to win the overall at the Natural Mr. North America. The North America was a qualifier for the Natural Mr. Universe to be held 2 weeks later in Venice, California. On December 12, 1992, John had his dream come true as he finally won the coveted Mr. Universe title he had set his sights on when he was only 14 years old. He was the winner of the Natural Mr. Universe contest. Over the next several years, John continued to compete to see how far he could advance his physique. He eventually won the Professional Natural Mr. Universe in 1996 weighing 10 pounds heavier than when he first won the title in 1992. Now he was a 2 time Mr. Universe winner. In 1998, John
Martial Artist/Action Film Star Stephanie Cheeva
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have martial artist and action film star Stephanie Cheeva-McNeal on the show. Stephanie Cheeva was born in Sofia-Bulgaria. Her mother is a Bulgarian Figure-skating Champion Maria Vulkova. Father is a Mathematics Professor Veselin Georchev. Stephanie became a part of the Bulgarian national Team of TKD at the age of 13 and has won 21 gold medals in eight years as a professional competitor in Martial Arts. She came to LA in 1996. Two years later she graduated the “Joanne Baron & D.W. Brown” school of acting. Since then we’ve seen her in “The Ultimate Game”, “Martial Law”, “Nash Bridges”, “VIP”, “Good Versus Evil”, “Longshot”, “Last Call”, “The Fine Art Of Persuasion”, “Tequila Express”, “Exorcism”, “Last Call”, Miss congeniality 2″, etc. She’s been in national adds for Tylanol and Pontiac. Stephanie is happily married to photographer Kelsey McNeal and is a proud mom of son- Zion, born 2005 and daughter -Theona, born 2008. What’s the appeal? The catlike eyes, pouting lips, high cheek bones mixed with a beautiful physique and jumping kicks that will knock most people’s heads off? Or is it something else? Strong faith, unbreakable spirit, gentle heart, a true warrior passionately fighting her battle towards excellence with joy and perseverance, that inspires all who know her. Personal Quotes “Victory comes with the choice to stay in the battle, commited to bring every effort to a successful completion. Each victory is granted by the grace of God.” “I’d rather tell people: Look at what I’m doing, instead of, look at what I’ve done.” “Stephanie Cheeva-McNeal is one of the most inspirational people that I’ve come across, although she is too humble to admit it, she has accomplished some great things in her life and will continue to do so, I am fortunate to know her, and hope that her story will continue to inspire people worldwide,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show.
Actress and Cover Model Lana Tailor
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Playboy Cover Model Lana Tailor on the Show. Lana Tailor is not only one of the most sought after cover models around today, being featured on the cover of such publications as Inside Fitness Magazine, Masquerade by Coquette Magazine and Lingerie –American Curves Presentation , she is also an actress with such credits as being the host of Toro Magazine Weekly , Principle of Lingerie Series-HBO/Cinemax , and the lead in the music video Khoren. Lana has also been featured in many publications globally, they include the following: Playboy’s Natural Beauties – COVER Playboy’s Big Boobs and Hot Buns – COVER American Curves Magazine Lingerie Edition – COVER Playboy’s NUDES – Feature Playboy’s Hottest Nudes – Feature Playboy’s College Girls – Feature Maximum Fitness – Max Fit Girl This ambitious cover model and actress is as professional as they come, she has the ability to make a good photo shoot for a photographer into a great one. Her goals in her career are to flourish as a cover model but also to grow as an actress. Lana Tailor has several other magazine features that are forthcoming and keeps the doors open for those unique opportunities that will further her career as both a model and an actor. Some radio shows that she was a part of at some level include: Tailor & Taylor Tour, Playboy Radio Show, Winter Bash @ Lee’s Palace, Local, Lobby, Miss Bikini Canada, Century Room, Club Krush and Sudbury Morning Host. Tailor trained at Scene Study – Levels 1, 2 & 3 , Universal Academy and Improvisation – Championship. Now on top of all of that she also throws in a little versatility by having in her arsenal a few accent mimics such as Australian, British, and French accents. Now for the guys that are reading this and that will be listening to this fantastic cover model’s interview, she’s got skills that stem from Boxing, Karate, Gymnastics to Ice Hockey, Baseball and Soccer. To find out more about Lana Tailor listen to the interview and you are sure to be taken back as you find out more about this great cover model and up and coming actress. Websites: www.lanatailor.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3511241/
Last Chance for Animals Founder Chris DeRose
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the founder of Last Chance For Animals, one of the nations foremost animal activists groups, Chris DeRose, on the show. Chris DeRose is an animal rights activist recipient of the 1977 ‘Courage of Conscience’ International Peace Award and a former actor. He appeared on General Hospital, Cagney and Lacey, CHiPs, The Rockford Files andBaretta. He was an on-camera reporter for the television shows Hard Copy and Inside Edition. DeRose was born in Brooklyn, New York. He is the founder and president of Last Chance for Animals and the author of the book In Your Face: From Actor to Animal Activist. DeRose has been arrested 11 times and jailed 4 times for opposing animal cruelty, including his participation in a break-in at the UCLA Brain Research Institute in 1988. DeRose was fired from General Hospital when he had to go to jail. DeRose appeared in the 2006 HBO Documentary “Dealing Dogs” along with an undercover animal rights activist known as “Pete” and other activists of Last Chance for Animals. Together, they uncovered mistreatment of animals on a large scale at the Martin Creek Kennel in Arkansas. They were successful in closing down the operation and subsequently found homes for the mistreated dogs that were being sold to labs for experimentation. “Dealing Dogs” documents the project that was designed to expose Martin Creek Kennel’s inhumane treatment of dogs and violations of the law. The investigation was initiated by Last Chance for Animals, a Los Angeles-based animal-rights group. Chris DeRose, the founder and president of Last Chance for Animals, said he hoped “Dealing Dogs” would speed the passage of the Pet Safety and Protection Act, which amends the Animal Welfare Act to ensure that dogs and cats used by research facilities are obtained legally. “We want to put them out of business,” Mr. DeRose said of the crooked Class B dealers. One of DeRose’s most controversial actions was arranging for two undercover operatives to pay Wisconsin animal dealer Erving Stebane $50 to kill and butcher a dog while DeRose secretly videotaped the action. Felony charges were filed against the dealer, but in June 1993 Calumet County circuit judge Donald Poppy ruled that the case constituted illegal entrapment and ordered the return of 143 dogs which had been seized. In an interview with Kit Pavarenti,DeRose grimaces at the words. “I made a painful decision,” he admits, “and a dog died.” The memory of that night still carries more than its share of remorse. To fend it off, he reminds us and himself that the dog’s death was imminent, with or without the presence of a camera, and that the camera brought at least some degree of meaning to its sacrifice. Indeed, the public outrage precipitated by the case galvanized not only the community, but drew the attention of U.S. Representative Toy Roth (D-WI), who introduced the Stebane Bill,” legislation designed to strengthen penalties for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Roth also wrote a letter to Mike Espy, Secretary of Agriculture, voicing his deep concerns with unlawful Class B vendor activities. His sentiments are echoed by U.S. Senator Fiengold (R-WI). DeRose received the 1997 Courage of Conscience International Peace Award and once worked as a police officer and an investigator. In 2006, he became the Director of Animal Welfare (DAW) for West Hollywood, California. “Chris is one of the most passionate people that I have come across on the UCW Radio Show, his commitment to the organization that he founded, Last Chance For Animals, as well as his commitment to kids in need, being an undocumented Big Brother to dozens, is astounding, it was an honor and pleasure to have him on the show and look forward to following up with him in the near future,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. About Last Chance For Animals Founded in 1984 by Hollywood actor Chris DeRose, Last Chance For Animals has its roots in fighting and exposing the inherent cruelty of vivisection. In the organization’s early years, DeRose led teams of dedicated activists employing non-violent strategies modeled after social movements led by such leaders as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. Using “Direct Action,” LCA activists engaged in peaceful protest with determined resolve… to make sure their voices would be heard. When direct action was still a new concept in the American animal rights movement, every well-planned demonstration achieved tremendous media coverage. By the late 1980s, LCA was earning a national reputation for its no-nonsense approach to exposing animal cruelty. Though dozens of activists faced arrest and some even faced extended jail time for charges such as trespassing, LCA is proud that its direct action protests have never caused injury to a person who was not voluntarily involved (i.e., some activists themselves were injured due to being forcefully ejected from the protest). With its national reputation growing, LCA received support from around the country, and around the world — from caring people who decided that it was time to fight peacefully yet fight hard… staging direct action, and gathering evidence to send animal abusers to jail. With an increased budget and staff, LCA expanded its focus beyond vivisection. In the 1980s and 1990s, LCA has worked on virtually every animal rights issue, including farming, fur and animals in entertainment. LCA’s primary focuses are vivisection, pet theft, fur, and circuses. Websites: www.lcanimal.org
Martial Arts Veteran/ MMA Fighter Mike “Loco Lobo” Gresh
Mike “Loco Lobo” Gresh Began in the world of Martial Arts training back in 1973 He jumped into the Professional MMA fight scene in 2005 at the age of 43 and currently has a record of 4-2-0 He has been a Private student since 2004 & Certified Muay Thai Instructor under Kru Mark Dellagrotte, SitYodTong, Boston, MA. Gresh is a Former New England Featherweight Champion under the banner Reality Fighting. some of his accomplishments included a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Daniel Gracie. 2003/2004 NAGA Division Champion. Black Belt in Uechi Ryu Karate. Black Belt in Hawaiin Kenpo. Mike Gresh has also trained in Jeet Kune Do “JKD” Websites: www.capecodfighting.com
Engageia CEO and Seemail Co-Founder Kent Speakman
Kent Speakman is the President & Managing Partner of Engageia and Speakman Entertainment.Engageia is an interactive, incubation and intelligence group that works with startups and established brands; Speakman Entertainment produces TV & film properties, securing creative, funding and distribution channels globally. Kent has a wide network of influential contacts, and has orchestrated a variety of film and technology deals spanning Canada, USA, UK, China and India. He leverages the connections in place to unite any size business with the right partners, connecting the dots to take projects from concept to completion. He is an award-winning digital marketing strategist, social media authority, blogger, and speaker. Kent co-spears partnership development, and owns P&L for the mobile, digital and social media teams at Engageia. He has a track record of helping start ups, big brands and fast-growing companies effectively navigate the world of online media, websites, blogs, communities, social networks, and developing branded entertainment, virtual worlds and video games. Engageia is also involved in the M&A arena, working closely with successful client partners that have proven disruptive technologies that are ready for an exit strategy.Kent also sits as an Advisory Board Director for iKaptial, a leading technology, film distribution and media micro-venture capital corporation. It is part of the Aker Group of companies with head offices in London England, Princeton New Jersey and Chennai India. The company was founded in 2001 as a micro-venture funding company and later fine-tuned its business model to become a Media-vertical focused business.Speakman has won-over studios and networks in LA, such as Disney and Hallmark, for innovative entertainment marketing strategy. He has been acknowledged and quoted in best selling books on management, sales and business relationships. You can follow him on his blog at www.kentspeakman.com Websites: www.engageia.com www.seemail.com www.twitter.com/KentSpeakman
Award Winning Record Producer/TV Host Dino Maddalone
On Air Host of “ASK DINO SHOW” Time Warner/Net Television show. RECORD PRODUCER/MIXER “Record Producer Of The Year” 2008-9 Los Angeles FILM TV COMPOSER POST PRODUCTION-SOUND DESIGN SOURCE SONGS MUSIC Endorsements:. From Greg Sitler.. “I was working on a Television pilot for NBC and the show really need high quality creative music and a lot of audio sweetening. Dino came through and saved the show. I hope for the chance to work with him again.” Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, Creative From C.Von (Record A&R) After years of reading about the man, the myth, the legend “Dino” I finally had the pleasure of meeting and working with him. He’s probably one of the most knowledgeable guys in the business and as such I was able to learn so much. He’s a true Renaissance man; If you’re looking for a recording studio that’s warm, friendly. I highly recommend you contact Dino Maddalone. If you’re looking for a Producer/Mixer, I recommend you contact Dino. From Executive Producer Robin Winslett GJR PRODUCTIONS. “Dino is highly creative and the consummate professional. He does what is needed to make a project a success and is a true expert in the music business. I strongly recommend Dino” Great Results, Expert, Creative. From Director Ryan Kohler “THE GUY CHRONICLES” ..”Dear Dino, I just wanted to say thank you for creating such great music and your sound design for our film.. You really saved us in the end. .Ryan Kohler Director “The Guy Chronicles” 2008 Expert in Composing many styles and work very well with Directors and Producers. I bring it in on time and done right. I am totally self contained with my own State Of The Art Facility… I have Composed for feature films, Network and Cable TV/Video Games. I am “RECORD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR” 2008-9 “Los Angeles Music Awards”. Specialties: Music for Film, Television, Video Games, Advertisements, Commercials. I am also am Award winning Record Producer.“RECORD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR” 2008-9 TV TALK SHOW HOST Websites: http://www.askdinoshow.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/ASK-DINO-SHOW-Dino-Maddalone-Host/329649629518?ref=ts
Former WWE/WCW Pro Wrestler Erik Watts
Watts attended the University of Louisville, where he was a quarterback for the Louisville Cardinals. Watts later trained as a wrestler under his father, Bill Watts, and debuted in 1992. After wrestling for three months, he was hired by World Championship Wrestling. While in WCW, Watts feuded with Arn Anderson. In 1995, Watts followed his father to the World Wrestling Federation. In the WWF, Watts was renamed “Troy” while Chad Fortune was renamed “Travis” and put in a tag team known as Tekno Team 2000. Wearing silver smocks and tight zubaz, their gimmick was that they represented the cutting edge of cyberculture. Watts joined the Philadelphia-based Extreme Championship Wrestling promotion in 2000, losing to Spike Dudley in his ECW Arena debut. He remained with the promotion for several months before departing. In 2002, Watts joined Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. He eventually formed a heel stable with David Flair and Brian Lawler (two other second generation wrestlers whose careers were overshadowed by those of their famous fathers, Ric and Jerry) known as “The Next Generation”. After the faction disbanded, Watts turned face. He acted as the TNA Director of Authority from July 23, 2003 to January 28, 2004, before being ousted from his position by Don Callis. Watts then feuded with his on-screen girlfriend, Goldy Locks, throughout 2004. In late 2004, he feuded with Raven, defeating him at Final Resolution on January 16, 2005 before leaving the promotion in February. Erik Watts is in mode to reenter the world of professional wrestling in the near future, whether it be color commentating or stepping back into the ring. Pro wrestling is in his blood and Watts is looking forward to adding value to the next major promotion he ties in with. Websites: www.universalwrestling.com
Music Recording Artist Tina Sugandh
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Tina Sugandh, the first “Bollywood” pop artist to hit the music scene, on the show. Tina Sugandh is becoming known as “The World’s First Bollywood Pop Star”. (Glam.com). One listen to the songs on Sugandh’s debut album and you’ll know you have discovered an artist worthy of such a title. This singer, songwriter, dancer, guitarist, tabla player, and actress has been performing since the age of five with her musical family, The Sugandh Family. She recently had two Billboard Charting Singles, has been on several Hollywood blockbuster soundtracks such as “Around the World in 80 Days, Christmas With the Kranks, Ice Princess, Raise Your Voice, The Clique” and more, was the voice of the theme song “Sisters” for Kelly Ripa’s ABC sitcom ‘Hope and Faith’, had a New York Post feature story about her, and recently sang and played tabla for Ringo Starr’s latest album and gave the Beatles percussionist a tabla tutorial which she shares with us on her YouTube site. With recent performances on the CW-11 and at the Astaire Awards with Liza Minnelli and Alan Cumming, and with features in media outlets such as The New York Post, Reuters international and more, this New Jersey native claims “now that my debut album TablaGirl has just been released, I’m really just getting started!” The songs on TablaGirl are musical tapestries that bring together the influences of Sugandh’s native India: the peaceful ghazals, the hardcore beat-driven sound of bhangra, and the phenomenally popular Bollywood soundtracks. Yet, by applying a contemporary sensibility to these styles, the singer has created a sound that will undoubtedly speak to pop music lovers everywhere, regardless of their cultural origins. Born in Bombay but raised in New Jersey, Sugandh grew up in a musical family. Her mother Geeta, father Kanaiya, and sister Seema all sang and played instruments, and Kanaiya enchanted audiences with his comedy and mimicry as well. Naturally the family loved to perform together, and shows for friends and family eventually led to the family performing professionally. It was at their very first professional “Sugandh Family” concert that the 5-year old sang her first song, a highly emotional and intricate ghazal. “I grew up singing in 7 different South Asian languages,” says Sugandh. It’s amazing to now have the freedom to express all the different musical styles I absorbed while growing up.” The family performed from Tina’s childhood through her college years, with one catch. While the weekend was for music, the week was dedicated to work. For Tina’s parents that meant their jobs as a professor and marketing executive. For Tina and Seema it was their schoolwork. Sugandh’s parents always made sure that the girls knew that the family’s passion for music and performance should never overshadow their academics. Eager to succeed at both, Tina balanced a career in music while graduating from Rutgers University, on the Dean’s List, with a degree in Biology. Instrumental in Sugandh’s musical education were the magnificent Bollywood soundtracks that are such a significant part of cultural life in India. “People in India get almost all of their music from soundtracks,” Sugandh explains. “They don’t usually know who the artists are. The films use playback singers, and then the actors lip synch to the music.” The singers may have been anonymous but the rhythm of the music made a very distinct impression on Sugandh, who took to playing percussion as eagerly as she had embraced singing. “I surprised my dad by asking him to let me play his dholak onstage when I was about 7 or 8,” she says, referring to the popular hand drum used in Indian music. ”I had never touched the dholak before that performance, but I somehow played well, and I remember there was thunderous applause! My parents said, ‘If you have that kind of natural rhythm, we’re going to start you on tabla lessons right away.” So began Sugandh’s love affair with the instrument that would come to define her dynamic sound. “Right after I took a few lessons, we incorporated the tabla into our performances,” she says. “When mom would sing and I would play, she would get such a sparkle in her eyes onstage. Performing as a family was the most amazing feeling.” Having achieved nothing less than rhythmic virtuosity over the years, Sugandh showcases her tabla skills on every track on the album (she is also an accomplished guitarist in her own right). The first single “Break Me” turns the sound of the tabla into a pulsating beat, creating an irresistible call to the dance floor. “Hey you, spicy thing, your masala makes me scream,” Sugandh sings playfully. The songs on TablaGirl, all written or co-written by Sugandh, almost uniformly convey the singer’s positive outlook. In the defiant “Jao,” the singer admonishes the “girls who spit dirty talk” and the “boys who act so tough.” In the slyly insinuating “Bollywood Girl,” Sugandh vows to not “act like those girls on those shows” and to not “abandon my morals.” “People sometimes think I’m a goody two-shoes,” says the singer. “But I’m not in this for the shock value. ‘Bollywood Girl’ is like an anthem to me; I’m saying that success is not so important to me that I would abandon my morals.” “Once you figure out who you are,” she says, “no one can hurt you,” – a lesson she hopes to impart to others through her music. “I hope I can help people like themselves. Nobody has all the answers; all we have is the power to do the best we can.” On the song “T.here I.s N.o A.lternative” (the title contains an acronym of her name), Sugandh sings metaphorically about shedding her cocoon and learning to fly. The song’s Western-style production, spiced up with a hint of Indian flavor, provides the perfect pop accompaniment for Sugandh’s exhilarating message. Immersed in a loving family, it’s no surprise that Sugandh also knows her way around a heartfelt love
Bodybuilding Legend and IFBB Hall of Famer Rich Gaspari
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have IFBB Hall of Famer and Bodybuilding legend Rich Gaspari on the show. Rich Gaspari has been involved in bodybuilding and the fitness field for the past 20 years. Throughout these years Rich has accomplished many things. He started dabbling in weight lifting at the age of 14 and excelled as a top professional bodybuilder from the mid 80’s through the 90’s. Nicknamed the “Dragon Slayer”, Rich was both feared and admired by his peers for his groundbreaking conditioning and freakish muscularity. His success as a competitor, attributed to his scientific approach to diet and training and notoriously brutal work ethic, is a testament to a man who, though not as genetically gifted as many of his competitors, toppled nearly every giant of his day. Some of Rich’s past titles include the Mr. America – known now as the NPC Nationals, Mr. Universe, Professional Mr. World, 1st Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Champion, Three Time runner up for the biggest and most coveted title in professional bodybuilding, the “Mr. Olympia”, and many other professional bodybuilding competitions. These titles brought him popularity and notoriety worldwide. He has appeared countless times in and on the covers of various publications such as Muscle and Fitness, Flex, Iron Man, Muscular Development, Muscle Media 2000, Muscle Mag International and many others throughout the world. Rich has also appeared in television commercials and on various TV shows such as the Tonight Show, Geraldo Rivera, and Regis and Kathy Lee. Rich also holds a certification with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This has allowed him to help hundreds of people to achieve healthier lives by altering body composition and improving overall health and athletic performance through personal training and nutrition. Over the past 10 years, Rich has developed his own line of supplements under his name Gaspari Nutrition into one of the most formidable and best loved in the world. His determination and love of the sport of bodybuilding has seen its’ successful transition evident in his unyielding passion for developing the most effective sports nutrition and diet products of our day. “Rich Gaspari is a true example of the American Dream, hard work and determination mixed in with a vision has made both Rich a legend in bodybuilding and his nutrition brand one of most sought after in the world, when looking for an example of fighting for success you need not look any further than Rich Gaspari,” said Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.gasparinutrition.com www.twitter.com/richgaspari
UK Singer/Songwriter Tara London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have recording artist Tara London on the Show. With a training in acting, musical and technical theatre, Tara London’s involvement in performance and composition dates back to the early days of her youth. Strong influences including Billie Holiday, Elvis Presleyand Janis Joplin explain her passion for individuality and flair, especially in the adverse face of existing trends. Always projecting a sound that inspires an emotive response within her, the desire to spread this feeling to those around her is the main drive behind this hugely talented musician, caring little for the conventional trappings of fame and fortune. Presently working as a solo artist, Tara is often accompanied by her guitarist and backing vocalists but has also spent time working with two bands in recent years, travelling far and wide across London and the South East including venues such as The Blag Club, The Cobden Club, Spice of Life Soho, The Sidcup/Bexley Guitar Society, ‘ The Original Songwriters’@ The Backyard,Broadway Theatre, The Bedford, The Cedar room, The Gate and many more. With her work earning airplay on independent and national radio stations in and outside the UK, Tara’s endeavors have recently been reflected with a nomination at the 2008 Indy Music Awards; meanwhile, work continues on a first album ‘The Whispering Years’ signaling no pause in momentum for this bright star of the future. Websites: www.myspace.com/taralondon http://www.taralondonmusic.co.uk/
International Model/Actress Phoebe Price
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have International Model, Actress and also Fashion Designer Phoebe Price on the Show, this is where you will find out more about the real Phoebe Price and not just what you see in the tabloids. Phoebe Price got her start as an international actress and model (in such cities as Capetown. S.A. Athens,Greece and Milan, Italy) Phoebe moved on to hosting a television show and has recently finished several films, “Survival of the Fittest” the Alex Melli Helmed “Horse Trader”, “Eye of Truth and “Lost in Transit’, “Shoot Me”. Not one to sit back on her laurels, Phoebe perfects her acting craft by studying with some of Hollywood’s top coaches including Howard Fine/Ted Brunetti, Robert Easton, Marge Haber, Michelle Danner/Larry Moss. A favorite of the photographers the former model and actress has graced the pages of such leading magazines as LA Confidential, Star Magazine, OK Magazine, Glamour, Vogue, In Touch Weekly, French Metro, Femina and others. Phoebe is an attendee of many Film Festival, Sundance, Cannes Film Festival, Cinevegas Film Festival, AFI Film Festival and will be the Ambassadrice and Speaker for the Monaco International Film Festival (2005). Phoebe generously lends her support to various altruistic causes, Cinema Fighting Cancer, Lili Claire Foundation, National Spokes Woman for “Women In Distress which helps battered women and children and many other charities. She is the spokeswoman for Fenix Cosmetics. She was the speaker for the opening of the Monaco Film Festival in Monaco. Websites: www.phoebeprice.com
Kickboxing Boxing Legend Olando “The Warrior” Rivera
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Kick boxing Legend Olando “The Warrior” Rivera on the Show. Every so often an athlete comes along who redefines the sport – taking it to an entirely new level. In basketball it’s Michael Jordan, in Baseball it’s Sammy Sosa, and in Kickboxing it’s Olando Rivera. Nicknamed “The Warrior”, Rivera has dominated the world super-light heavyweight class. Today Olando “Warrior” Rivera is the five-time world champion super light heavyweight kickboxer holding titles in the ISKA (International Sports Karate Association), KICK (Karate International Council of Kickboxing), WWKA (Worldwide Karate Association), P.F.K. and WMMA. Rivera unified the division for the first time in kickboxing history. His extensive professional kickboxing career hosts an impressive record of 32 wins, 3 losses and 1 draw. This record is even more impressive in the fact that two of the only three losses were his first two professional bouts – where, like a true champion, he fought back to maintain a virtually flawless record, winning 29 out of his 30 next fights, with 20 of these victories by knockout. Olando Rivera began his kickboxing career at the tender age of 9 in Brooklyn, New York where he began training in Tae Kwon Do. However his early career was temporarily derailed when his family could no longer financially support his training. Undaunted, Rivera earned the money himself and at the age of 13 was training once again. Since then, “The Warrior” has never looked back on his way to the top of the kickboxing circuit – and now the boxing – world. By the age of 35, he was the youngest person ever inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame. Now with 30 years of martial arts training and 15 years of fitness instruction, Rivera has become a force to be reckoned with all over the world. Recently, he defeated the light heavyweight champions from both China and Brazil. Rivera recently expanded his kickboxing success into the professional boxing ring and now holds an equally astounding boxing record of 15-3-2 (8 by KO) He currently holds the Latin American WBC Championship Boxing title, and the IBC America’s Title. Olando intends on being the first Latino to dominate the two sports holding world light heavyweight titles in both kickboxing and boxing. In addition to fighting, Rivera has been motivating people outside the ring for years as a celebrity personal fitness trainer – training stars of the big screen, music and television. In New York, where the one-on-one Warrior Training concept originated, Rivera trained Another World’s Tom Eplin and Sandra Ferguson. In addition, he’s trained Silver Screen Star Wesley Snipes, R&B sensation Calvin Richardson, and World Champion WCW’s Evan Karagias, Former Buccaneer Player Brad Culpepper and several other Athletes as well He is also a seasoned Kickboxing trainer having instructed over 5000 clients worldwide, kids and adults alike, from as far away as China, Canada and the United States. Rivera’s unique training style and intense sport-training and agility techniques have been featured on ESPN, ABC’s Good Day New York, on CNN with Another World’s Tom Eplin, Madison Square Garden Network’s Martial Arts World, Soap Opera Digest and Soap Opera Weekly, NY Daily News, pay-per view channels, ABC and NBC news and countless others. Rivera’s charismas on and off-screen have also been captured in the Latino market via Telemundo Network’s Occurio Asi. Olando Rivera is happily married to Deena Rivera and they reside in Tampa, Florida. Olando Rivera has four children: Victoria, Olando Jr, Anthony and Anjelina. The older kids are both skilled in martial arts and the sport of kickboxing. When he’s not inside the ring, training clients or playing with his children, you can usually find Olando racing motorcycles and cars in what little “spare” time he can garnish. Another passion of Rivera’s is his childhood love of gymnastics. Olando and Deena are both advocates for Autism and promoting Autism Awareness since their son Anthony was diagnosed back in 2001. Rivera is not only the greatest kickboxer in the world, but also one of the most sought after instructors and motivators. He is truly the definition of superstar – in the ring and out. We hope you will show your continued support as Olando prepares to embark upon a completely new venture with Warrior Classic Kickboxing. Amateur Kickboxing Events Presently Being Held In The Tampa Bay Area. Websites: www.olandorivera.com www.warriorclassic.com Donate to Autism Speaks in the name of Anthony Rivera at www.autismspeaks.org www.twitter.com/olandorivera
Actress/Comedian Ursula Taherian
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the ultra talented Actress/Comedian Ursula Taherian on the Show. Ursula Taherian was born and raised a Halfghani in Crofton, Maryland. She attended Arundel High School where she graduated in the top 3% of her class in addition to serving as class president, captain of the soccer and softball teams, acting with the Arundel Players, and serving as a member of the Spanish Honor Society. She moved to Baltimore to attend Loyola College in Maryland where she graduated Summa cum laude with a major in Finance and a minor in Spanish. At Loyola, Ursula stayed involved in both theatre and student government and enjoyed membership in Beta Gamma Sigma (International Honor Society in Business & Management), Sigma Delta Pi (National Collegiate Spanish Language Honor Society), and the Financial Management Association Honor Society. After graduation, Ursula worked as an internal consultant for a well-known international financial institution. Feeling creatively stifled, she eventually broke up with Corporate America and headed west, where she has since been working steadily in both film and television. Currently, she can be seen on the new hit television show, “Reality Hell”, on E! She was also just nominated for Best Actress and Breakout Action Star for her leading role in the film “Layla” that is presently making the festival rounds. Other credits include the pilots, “Think Twice”, written and directed by Jordana Arkin and Wayne Brady’s “Joke’s On You”, as well as a series regular role on the HBO political satire, “The Message”. You can catch her on stage at the First-Ever Middle Eastern Comedy Festival (LA Weekly’s Choice in “Go LA”, Jewish Journal’s “Pick of the Week”) on Wednesday and Thursday, September 23 and 24, at the Acme Comedy Theatre. Please visit www.mideastcomedyfest.com for details. Ursuala starred in such films as “Carver:”, “Pizza Palace” , “Helmet” , “When Cobra Strikes” in addition to the ones already mentioned. She has received lots of praise for her films roles but her resume is broad as she also has vast television experience. She has starred in such shows as “Raising The Roofs” on Spike TV, “North Mission Road” on Court TV, “The Mesage” on HBO, and her latest project “Reality Hell” which can be seen on E! . She has done pilots with the likes of Wayne Brady and is one of Hollywood’s Shining Stars. Her versatility has led her to take the lead in some theatre projects including “Publicityville” , “The Role Model” , “8 Shades of Layon Gray” , “Diary of a Catholic School Dropout” and “Wedding of Doom.” “I have to say that Ursula is one of the most enjoyable guests that we have had on the UCW Radio Show, her journey is one of sacrifice and success. She is without a doubt someone that deserves the accolades that she receives, giving up a promising career, leaving her family and making a success at what she set out to do, oh yeah she is just beginning, and will achieve great things not only in Hollywood but globally.” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. See Ursula during the Middle Eastern Comedy Festival Tuesday September 22, 2009 and closes out on Friday September 25, 2009. Ursula will be in the sketch portion on Wednesday September 23, 2009 and on Thursday September 24, 2009, both nights at 7:30pm and 9:15pm PST. Here is some information on The Middle Eastern Comedy Festival that runs this coming Tuesday, 9/22, through Friday, 9/25. I’m in the sketch portion on Wednesday (yes tomorrow…I know, I’m on the ball) and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. both nights. Current sponsors include KPCC (NPR), ABC/Disney, FOX, CNBC, and most recently Larry King is sending a reporter! CNBC did an article on us and the LA Times is doing one as well. We were LA Weekly’s Choice in “Go LA” and Jewish Journal’s “Pick of the Week”. We also got support from the social action network, Take Part. CNBC article: http://www.cnbc.com/id/32842844 Jewish Journal article: Take Part article: http://www.takepart.com/blog/2009/09/22/an-arab-and-an-israeli-walk-into-a-bar/#like Websites: www.ursulataherian.com
Pro Wrestler/Entrepreneur Lanny Poffo aka “The Genius”
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have WWE Pro Wrestling Star Lanny “The Genius” Poffo on the Show. Lanny Poffo began wrestling in the NWA territories in the 1970s before becoming a star and champion in International Championship Wrestling. Over the course of his regional career, Poffo both tag teamed and feuded with older brother Randy. Upon the ICW’s folding in 1984, he joined Randy in the CWA before traveling with him again to the World Wrestling Federation in June 1985. The brother angle was never worked in the WWF and the relationship was never mentioned on-air. While Lanny never reached the heights as it relates to popularity as his brother Randy “Macho Man” Savage did in the WWF, he still managed to find a niche for himself as a minor fan favorite. As Leaping Lanny Poffo, the Wrestling Poet, he would bring Frisbees to the ring, read a short ode written on one of them that he himself had penned, and throw the Frisbees into the crowd. Each poem typically ridiculed his opponent and created an opening or basis for a continued feud. Poffo wrestled a high-flyer style at a time when big, heavy wrestlers still dominated the promotion. He was one of the first wrestlers in North America to utilize the moonsault in their arsenal, though the announcers referred to it at the time as a “leaping backflip”. He made some publicity in late 1986 and early 1987 by competing in a series of Bunkhouse Battle Royals in full knight’s armor. In April 1989, Poffo was re-introduced as a heel wrestler and became The Genius, adopting a highly intelligent, sniffy persona and wearing an academic cap and gown to the ring. He officially turned heel at the Boston Garden on March 18, 1989 still known as Leaping Lanny, he berated Hulk Hogan and stuck up for his brother Randy Savage in his poem. This was a mere two weeks before Wrestlemania V. His poems now ridiculed the face wrestlers, and he now behaved in an even more effeminate manner to infuriate the crowd. During the match, the Genius would construct a mathematical equation that would tilt the balance of the match in his favor. In addition, the Genius also served as a manager (and occasional tag team partner) for Mr. Perfect. On the November 25, 1989 edition of WWF Saturday Night’s Main Event, The Genius beat WWF Champion Hulk Hogan by count out due to Mr. Perfect hitting Hogan with the championship belt. Later in the show, Mr. Perfect and Poffo took a hammer to the belt, shattering it to pieces. Later, The Genius was the manager of the Beverly Brothers . It was in this capacity that Poffo last appeared in the WWF, at Survivor Series 1992. Outside of wrestling, Poffo has released a collection of poems and limericks, most of which were related to drug and alcohol awareness, directed toward young children. Poffo is a staunch anti-smoker and has released a book of limericks entitled Limericks from the Heart and Lungs!. He is also a certified credit counselor. He was last seen on television in infomercials as an endorser of Tony Little’s Gazelle Freestyle exercise machine. Poffo is still on good terms with WWE, having written a poem for WWE.com in 2007 for the “Battle of the Billionaires” at WrestleMania 23 between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump. “Lanny Poffo is one of the most genuine people in the wrestling business, I consider him to be a great example of professionalism as well as being an inspiration to children through his poetry and books, he is just a great all around guy.” said Louis Velazquez, host of The UCW Radio Show. Poffo Family Picture Website: www.lannypoffo.com
Bodybuilding/Powerlifting Champion Kate Baird
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Bodybuilding and Powerlifting Champion Kate Baird on the show. Kate Baird was born on November 17 in Wilmington, Delaware. She grew up in typical “suburbia”, an ordinary girl. She was actually quite shy, even into her adult life, though most of those who know her, except for those who know her quite well, will refute that fact. Because of her shyness and timidness, She never put forth much effort when she was younger to explore and nurture any of the talents that she had, athletically, artistically or otherwise. She was always a bit offbeat, and because of her inability to accept conformity, she was seen as being quite outgoing and confident. Self esteem was something she didn’t have until I was in my 40’s. In her words, “I’ve grown a lot since I turned 40.” Kate’s fascination with strength and bodybuilding came one day when she was 10 or 11. Her father was watching the Wide World of Sports and the show was televising the Mr. Universe that Sunday afternoon. She admits that she watched with fascination, as Arnold, Franco, and Lou posed down. It was at that moment that she knew that someday she would be a bodybuilder, too. Of course, in the beginning of the 1970’s, girls just didn’t do that kind of thing. Kate watched in fascination as Lisa Lyon came to the forefront in the late 70’s, always hoping that she could find someone to show her how to lift weights and grow muscles. In the early 1980’s, Kate started dating someone who worked out, and it was then that she began her early training with a small set of plastic weights in the basement of his friends’ house in South Philadelphia. After a year or so, she joined the YMHA on Broad Street. Finally, a real gym! She worked out hard from the beginning, most of the time by herself, learning the ropes through reading the various publications, and trying things out in the gym. “I think people usually assumed that I knew exactly what I was doing,, basing that on the fact that I always went in and gave it my all each time I trained,” Kate explained. After she got married in 1990, she had a child, started a new career, life happened and the dreams got put on the back burner. Kate continued to work out in her backyard with her own dumbbells and bench, albeit these workouts were to stay in shape, nothing like the workouts she used to know. Kate tried joining a gym once or twice while her son was young, but her ex-husband was a chef and was never home, and her career in real estate was not exactly profitable in the beginning. She couldn’t afford a babysitter. so she kept to her backyard training. She slipped a disc in my back in 2001. That sure changed her life for a long time. One day in the fall of 2003 Kate just simply decided that her back was healed enough, and it was time to go back to the gym. It was automatic iron fever once again. It didn’t take very long for people to start asking her if she competed in bodybuilding. Kate said “I gather that was based upon the fact that I have been blessed with that right shape, and the fact that I still continued to train fervently and with purpose. That planted the seed to revive the dream I always had – to be a competitive bodybuilder. After only being back in the gym less than 10 months, I actually won the NPC 2004 DE State Overall title. During my diet preparation, I actually got very sick and decided to give this competition up. Luckily I had friends who talked me back into it (though that really didn’t take any arm twisting!). After three weeks off the diet, two weeks of no training, I went back on the diet with less than three weeks to go, and still won, much to my surprise. I had hundreds of dollars worth of blood tests taken during this time, and this is when they discovered that I have blood sugar issues – borderline diabetes. My problems were due to severe drops in blood sugar and a virus on top of that. I’ve since learned to keep the carbs up! (sorry all you low carb fanatics).” While she was training for that first contest, she met and became fast friends with a world-class powerlifter and former champion bodybuilder . It was through his encouragement and direction that Kate really began to see that she could take this sport to the levels that she desired. She was already stronger than the average girl. He spotted this right off the bat and nurtured her. He had Kate enter my first powerlifting meet as a way of keeping her size and strength as a prelude to a bodybuilding competition. “I know now that he was secretly prepping me for a future in a sport I have become quite passionate about. Before this, I didn’t know anything about powerlifting. I didn’t squat, I didn’t bench, and I didn’t even know how a deadlift was performed!,” she added. Kate entered her first powerlifting competition in May, 2005. Her lifts were actually very competitive in this meet, considering that she had only been “power” training for a few months. But she was hooked. She still continues to compete now and then in bodybuilding contests, however, in the words of Kate ” I don’t think anything matches the satisfaction of getting under that heavy bar loaded with iron – pushing or pulling and rising above the challenge. Currently, I choose to lift without the squat suit and the bench shirt. I have nothing against geared lifting, but personally I just find it cumbersome and annoying to wear it. I may change my mind in the future, but right now “raw” is where
Pro Wrestler Scotty Riggs
Scotty Riggs real name Scott Antol debuted in 1992 using the ring name “Scott Stud”. In the early 1990s, he worked for various independent promotions, including the North Georgia Wrestling Association (a World Championship Wrestling developmental territory), Smoky Mountain Wrestling, and the United States Wrestling Association.Scotty Riggs signed a contract with World Championship Wrestling “WCW” in 1995 and it was there that he was given the ringname “Scotty Riggs”, the name Riggs being taken from the main character of the movie “Lethal Weapon” starring Mel Gibson. He was immediately placed in to a tag team with Marcus Alexander Bagwell, better known as Buff Bagwell, the brother of baseball great Jeff Bagwell,and they became known as “The American Males”. Together, they captured the WCW World Tag Team Championship once, but only held it for eight days before losing it back to Harlem Heat, the team they won it from in the first place.The team broke up in November 1996 when Bagwell turned heel, attacking Riggs and joining the New World Order.After the breakup, the former partners feuded for a short while, with Bagwell usually coming out on top.After bouncing around the mid-card for most of 1997, Raven took an interest in him in his next storyline. During a “No DQ Match” on the October 27, 1997 edition of Nitro, Raven caught Riggs in a drop toe-hold, sending him face first into a steel chair and injuring his eye in the process.Riggs then began wearing an eye patch. For the rest of 1998, Riggs again lurked around the mid-card before starting a narcissistic gimmick, constantly admiring his own physique. The gimmick was not particularly successful, and he was eventually released. In 2000, Antol debuted in Extreme Championship Wrestling as Scotty Anton, aligning with his real-life friend Rob Van Dam. At Hardcore Heaven, Anton betrayed Van Dam, knocking him off the top rope to the floor, allowing Jerry Lynn to pin him and thus end Van Dam’s lengthy undefeated streak. From there, he joined The Network as a “hired gun”. Van Dam gained revenge at Heat Wave, defeating Anton by debuting his Van Terminator. After ECW declared bankruptcy in April 2001, Antol returned to the independent circuit, where he found the greatest success of his entire career in Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling as he became a three time TCW Heavyweight Champion as well as a one time TCW Tag Team Champion with Erik Watts. Upon getting his life together, Scotty Riggs resumed his wrestling career and returned to wrestling under his “Scotty Riggs” ring name for numerous independent promotions, Riggs has also joined Entertainers That Care, a group that works alongside celebrities to help in fundraising events for many causes, and theChildren’s Miracle Network. www.twitter.com/REALScottyRiggs
Competitive Fitness Model Champion Michelle Demaria
Michelle is one of those people that are more than what meets the eye. Its true that she is a Fitness Competitor and with only two years under her belt she has snagged an endorsement deal and a number of appearances representing bodybuilding.com. She is also an educator, teaching High School in Canada, Michelle definitely must have the highest attendance record in the district. She is getting herself set to compete in 2010 and looks to make 2010 a banner year. According to Michelle she has been teaching High School for about ten years, lucky kids, and she really has a passion to mold the minds of the youth, but her true claim to personal fame is being a mom. Her little one, all of 6 years old, is one of the most well mannered 6 year old girls that we had the pleasure to interact with, she is actually the one that pushes her mom to do better and compete, and she doesn’t just talk the talk, this little one walks the walk being a competitive dancer herself. And yes she is doing her very first solo shortly. So Michelle is not your typically fitness competitor, and her story is not just about pumping iron or dieting, there is a true story of a single mom guiding the way for her child, holding down a career and through fitness she is able to set an example to her students, and above all her daughter, that you can accomplish anything if you just put your mind to it and want it to happen badly enough. To find out more about Michelle DeMariawww.michelledemaria.com
Author/Leading Authority on Outlaw Biker Clubs Edward Winterhalder
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Author/Leading Authority on Outlaw Biker Clubs Edward Winterhalder on the Show. Edward Winterhalder is an American author, entrepreneur, and leading authority on motorcycle clubs and the biker lifestyle; his books are published in multiple languages and sold all over the world. Author of a historical look into the secret world of outlaw motorcycle clubs (also known as biker gangs), his autobiography about the time he spent with the Bandidos Motorcycle Club titled Out In Bad Standings: Inside The Bandidos Motorcycle Club – The Making Of A Worldwide Dynasty was published in November 2005, according to large bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Winterhalder is also the co-author, with Canadian motorcycle journalist Wil De Clercq, of The Assimilation: Rock Machine Become Bandidos – Bikers United Against The Hells Angels (published by Canada’s ECW Press in June 2008); the co-author, with James Richard Larson, of All Roads Lead To Sturgis: A Biker’s Story (published by Blockhead City Press in February 2009); the co-author, with Australian Arthur Veno and Canadian Wil De Clercq, of Biker Chicks: The Magnetic Attraction of Women to Bad Boys and Motorbikes (published by Australia’s Allen & Unwin in May 2009) and the co-author, with Canadian Wil De Clercq, of L’Assimilation: Rock Machine & Bandidos Contre Hells Angels (published by Canada’s Octave Editions in June 2009). An October 2006 issue of Rockstar Magazine described Winterhalder as being the high ranking member of the Bandidos responsible for the assimilation of a Canadian motorcycle gang known as the Rock Machine in 2001, which then became the Canadian chapters of the Bandidos. An executive producer of the Living on the Edge DVD/television reality series, Winterhalder was born in New England, grew up in Connecticut and moved to Oklahoma after serving in the US Army. In Oklahoma he joined the Rogues Motorcycle Club in the 1970s, and was a close associate and/or a member of the Bandidos for more than twenty years. He has been seen on Fox TV News, History Television, the History Channel, the CBC Canadian TV evening news, been a featured author on Bravo TV’s “The Word”, and has been quoted by hundreds of magazines and newspapers worldwide such as the Seattle Weekly, the Austin Chronicle, the Sunshine Coast Daily in Australia and The Guardian in England; the media recognizes him as one of the world’s leading authorities on the Bandidos, outlaw motorcycle clubs and bikers. A consultant to the entertainment industry for television shows and feature films that focus on the biker lifestyle, the main character Jax Teller in the new series Sons of Anarchy is partially based on specific aspects of Winterhalder’s life as portrayed in his first book Out In Bad Standings, according to the Laconia Citizen and Bombin’ Magazine Website: www.blockheadcity.com Edward Winterhalder Books and DVDs to date include (4 more books coming in the next 18 months): L’Assimilation: Rock Machine & Bandidos Contre Hells Angels (Co-Author Wil De Clercq – Octave Editions Canada June 2009) Biker Chicks: The Magnetic Attraction of Women to Bad Boys and Motorbikes (Co-Author Arthur Veno with Wil De Clercq – Allen & Unwin Australia May 2009); All Roads Lead To Sturgis: A Biker’s Story (Co-Author James Richard Larson – Blockhead City Press USA February 2009) The Assimilation: Rock Machine Become Bandidos – Bikers United Against The Hells Angels (Co-Author Wil De Clercq – ECW Press Canada June 2008) Living on the Edge: Riding with the Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club in Pennsylvania (Blockhead City Entertainment USA December 2007) Out In Bad Standings: Inside The Bandidos Motorcycle Club – The Making Of A Worldwide Dynasty (Blockhead City Press USA November 2005)
Entrepreneur and Humanitarian Julie Weintraub
Julie was born in England. Her mother is English and her father from India. Her family moved to the U.S when she was 6 years old. In 1990 at 19 years old Julie helped her ex-husband and partner found the Dogwater Café restaurant chain in the Tampa Bay area. The opened 4 locations in 3 years and eventually sold it in 1998. It is now a franchise and has been featured in numerous national magazines and media outlets due to its unique concept- great food in Dog Bowls! By the time Julie was 20 she had become a licensed Realtor and was dealing in million dollar properties for some of the area’s premier families. Along with her career Julie always made time to give back to the community. Julie spent countless hours volunteering for the Humane Society doing fundraisers with her restaurants and rehabilitating injured and sick animals in her home. Steve and Julie currently support numerous Charities through out the Tampa Bay area. During Julie’s travels at home and abroad she always took interest in the way homes and various types of buildings were furnished inspiring her to open Classic Elegance Interiors 9 years ago. Her work has been featured in St. Pete Times, Tampa Tribune, Tampa Bay Magazine, House Trends and on Channel 13’s Good Day Tampa Bay as Julie was the coordinator and decorator for the Designer Showcase for local Charities. In the last 5 years Julie and her dear friend of many years Steve Weintraub have married and joined forces. Julie is the Vice President of Gold & Diamond Source handling many aspects of the business, from day to day operations, sales training, and most importantly customer and community relations. Julie has helped introduced to the Tampa Bay Area who Steve and Julie Weintraub are through a series of commercials you may have seen on all the major networks and a strong commitment to supporting charities in their community. With the belief that people shop with people not Logo’s. Julie has also recently partnered with Mary Murphy form So You Think You Can Dance and Maria McGill to promote a gorgeous line of gowns inspired by Maria McGills dance line she created for Dancing With The Stars Season 1 in the US and in Europe. Steve and Julie have 5 children between them from 8-23 years old. They enjoy Sundays with a house full of kids and animals jet skiing and gardening. To learn more about Julie Weintraub go to www.goldanddiamondsource.com www.entradacouture.com www.handsacrossthebay.com
Mega Record Promoter Ron Herbet
Ron Herbert is a world class record promoter, he has worked with dozens and dozens of artist globally some of which include Cher, Janet Jackson, Rolling Stones, Meatloaf, Sting, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and the list goes on and on. In November 1996, Herbert, a native Atlantan, became vice president of southeastern operations for the powerful Jeff McClusky & Associates, a record promotions and marketing firm out of Chicago. At 6’2,” his powerful frame stands in stark symbolic contrast to his childlike passion for music and musicians in general. His reach in the business stretches far and wide and spans 25 years, a fact that is overwhelmingly evident upon entering his Buckhead high-rise office. Adorned with hordes of gold and platinum records representing millions of albums sold, the walls reflect a rich and eventful history in the shaping of rock ’n’ roll. Ron joined Jeff McClusky and Associates in 1984. The founder of the independent record promotion and marketing firm in Chicago happened to be looking for a key figure to help his company expand into the hot southeastern market. Ron soon began breaking records for all the majors—Columbia, Atlantic, Warner, Elektra, Mercury — Herbert’s aggressive style soon became the stalwart of the companies “Southern Wing”, and through Ron’s fiercely competitive dedication, Jeff McClusky and Associates became known as one of the largest, most successful companies of its kind in the U.S. Presently, Ron Herbert is working on numerous other entertainment ventures including a partnership with Ray Mariner (Atlanta, GA radio personality) to manage Country music new comers, Gary Ray & The Heartwells. Websites: www.moneymarketron.com www.bonusmusic.com
Natural Mr. Universe Doug Burns
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Mr. Universe Doug Burns on the Show. Doug Burns is a modern Sampson. The 2006 Natural Mr. Universe, he’s two hundred pounds of sheer muscle and the picture of good health. Of the skinny little boy with type 1 who used to work out in the woods alone, all that remains are a wry sense of humor and an attractively self-deprecating manner. They’re unexpected in a man who’s triumphed in the uber-masculine world of bodybuilding, but there’s a lot that’s unexpected about Doug Burns. At the age of twelve, in 1977, Doug came across a picture of the Biblical Sampson holding a lion in a headlock. He’d never seen anything like Sampson’s hugely muscular body, and for the skinny, lonely boy, the sight was a revelation. That night he prayed zealously for a half hour to be changed into a Sampson. When he woke the next morning as skinny as ever, he gave up on miraculous intervention and decided to take matters into his own hands. Doug’s physician tried to forbid him to lift weights, but he was so hell-bent on becoming Samsonesque that he ignored the doctor. Unfazed by the absence of gyms in backwoods Mississippi, he made late night forays to the junkyard and jerry-rigged his own gym with old pulleys and bags of concrete. Using an outdated issue of Ironman magazine as his guide, he trained in his makeshift gym in the woods come hell or high water, in the company of raccoons and bobcats, and once right through a tornado. About the same time that he started working out, Doug got hold of a home glucose meter. His control improved immediately, and once that happened, his world opened up. No longer a bag of bones, he joined the football team, became the most valuable running back, and found a group of buddies to work out with. He and his friends would go to Wolf River, dive from the trestle, and train out in the sun with weighted dumbbells. Where the river rapids flowed through a canyon, they swam upriver like salmon. At age fifteen, after only two years with the weights, Doug began power-lifting competitively. He placed dead last in his first competition, but by the time he graduated from high school, he had set American records in drug-free power lifting in the adult open class. Following his success as a powerlifter, he began entering bodybuilding competitions. In November 2006, the boy formerly known as “the bag of bones” became Mr. Universe. When he’s getting ready for a contest, Doug moves his testing frequency way, way up. Because his body fat is coming down so drastically, he starts using cardiovascular work to chase his glucose. He begins pulling off of bolus injections; instead, he moderates what he’s eating in conjunction with whatever training he’s doing. So he takes glucose when he knows he’s going to need it, and then does aerobic work right afterward to “just burn the heck out of it.” As his body fat keeps dropping, the whole mechanism keeps improving and improving. When he was first competing, Doug didn’t know any other athletes who had diabetes. He was aware of one other diabetic bodybuilder way back, but that fellow got into the anabolic scene. Doug’s never used drugs, but he trained at Gold’s Gym in Venice for seven or eight years, and the drug use there, he reports, was rampant. The organization within which he competes, the International Natural Bodybuilding Association, is completely clean and tests for everything under the sun. The two other bodybuilding organizations, however, are sullied by steroids. It’s unfortunate, he says, because steroid use has distorted a previously healthy quest to attain a classic figure, twisting it into a battle of cartoon characters. Doug’s never run into any prejudice against diabetes in the gym, though he is very open about testing and his pump. People sometimes give him the eye, thinking that insulin might be advantageous in competition, but insulin is of no use to him in that respect because if his insulin ever goes high, he can’t shed body fat and get lean enough to compete. For competitions, he brings his insulin dosage down to probably less than that of a non-diabetic person. Doug emphasizes that for him, it’s not about diet and exercise: It’s about exercise and diet. Exercise is primary. He says that diets are misleading, in that they promise that you can simply eat your way to health. He does have a particular diet that he follows, leaning a little more on protein. He “eats very, very clean” throughout the week and gives himself one day to enjoy whatever he feels like having. He loves Cajun food with a passion, and his favorite beer, Chili Creek, is spiced up by a big hot pepper inside the bottle. Doug doesn’t take any meds except children’s aspirin, but he takes a lot of supplements, including isolated whey plus whey concentrate, multi-vitamins and minerals, essential fatty acids, L-glutamine and carnatine. He notes a distinct beneficial effect when he takes supplements, which he uses to advantage when preparing for competition: He works without supplements until he is in the best possible shape, and then adds the supplements to take it up a notch. He notes that his way is the antithesis of the public’s inclination to take the magic potion right from the get-go. He has always done the work first and then used the supplements as an adjunct to the hard work. That stubbornness may be why Winston Churchill, the relentless bulldog of a man who refused to quit no matter what, is one of Doug’s favorite people. He was also inspired by Sampson, of course, by Dr. Billy Graham, and by Bo Jackson, whom he reveres as one of the greatest athletes of all time. His biggest inspirations are his three kids, ages twelve, ten, and eight. He’s no longer too concerned that his children
Professional Photographer/Film Director Kelsey McNeal
Kelsey McNeal has been involved in photography since the age of 6 due to his fathers influence. He has definitely come along way since snapping shots as a young kid. Although he has had great success in the world of photography he did not make a decision to lean on his past accomplishments, Kelsey is reaching for higher ground by interchanging his photo camera for a film camera, as he gets set to film his first film “PURE.” Kelsey always had a knack for taking good pictures, whether it was at family functions or just on his travels, he is a consummate artist at heart, bundle that with creative, the desire for knowledge and a drive , well you had the recipe for success. His creative vision allowed him to see stories in a photo, so knowing this he made it a point to envision the story in every picture he took. After graduating from college, Kelsey quickly began work in the television and film industry. In 1993 he had the ability to join the Cinematographers Union thus taking him one step closer to his true calling, even though he didn’t know it yet. He had the privilege to work on several film and television projects such as “How Stella Got Her Groove Back”, “Heat”, “L.A. Confidential”, “Wonderboys”, “Set It Off”, “Gone In 60 Seconds”, “The Other Sister”, “Bandits”, “Life As a House”, “V.I.P”, “Boston Public”, “The District”, “24”, “So You Think You Can Dance”, “American Idol”, “Dancing With The Stars”, and the list goes on. He has worked with major television networks such as ABC, NBC, Fox Television Network and Lifetime. While working with many distinguished Directors of Photography, Kelsey learned how to capture the beauty of a person, or the significance of a moment, and create art through the use of camera angles, lighting, location, wardrobe, and mood. Through it all, photography remained his true passion and in 2002 he made his passion a profession. After walking around trying to find himself, he took that walk with a camera in hand, snapping shots all over the world, still not knowing what he wanted to do, but all the while it was right in front of him, Photography. From celebrities to models, from fashion to editorial, landscapes to still life he has built quite an impressive portfolio. And in every photo he takes, you see the creative, artistic soul that makes Kelsey McNeal. As Ansel Adams once said, “There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer”. “Kelsey is one of the most talented photographers in the United States today, his vision and ability to tell such a story with every photo he takes is a gift that not many photographers or directors for that matter have. The natural progression for a creative soul like Kelsey is motion pictures and we look forward to him becoming one of the greats in Hollywood as his career progresses.” said Louis Velazquez, Host of the UCW Radio Show. To learn more about Kelsey McNeal go to www.kelseymcneal.com
Actress/Model Anna Easteden
Anna Easteden enjoys a career rich in experience and wide in range as an international model, TV, stage and screen actress, and humanitarian activist. Easteden is known for her performance as Bee Sting on “Who Wants to Be a Superhero?” as well as notable co-starring roles on “Bones,” “Days Of Our Lives” and “Passions.” She also played Nicole Brown Simpson in a Japanese TV movie and took on a lead role in the short film “Harmless,” winner of 2 prestigious film festival awards. Personally recruited by multi-award winning director Mika Kaurismaki (who’s directed the likes of Johnny Depp, Julie Delpy and Henry Thomas), Easteden is slated to star in his upcoming feature film “The House of Branching Love” (“Haarautuvan Rakkauden Talo”) set for release in her native Finland in Fall 2009. Easteden will also work alongside Oscar® nominee Rinko Kikuchi (“Babel”) in the Japanese remake of the Oscar®-winning American phenomenon “Sideways” – currently in post-production for a 2009 release. Easteden was born in Finland and raised on her parents’ dairy farm. At the early age of twelve, Anna’s career took its first major stride when she won a national modeling contest and appeared on her first Finnish magazine cover. Shortly thereafter, Anna received an international modeling contract with a major Japanese modeling agency and promptly relocated to Tokyo where she appeared in advertising campaigns for such mammoth international corporations as Sony, Phillips, Oricom and Wacoal – to name a few. Easteden’s modeling career next swept her off to such global destinations as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Slovakia, Guam and finally the United States. Once on US soil, Easteden quickly landed a series of major modeling gigs with Calvin Klein, Hermès, Salvatore Ferragamo, Diesel, T-Mobile, Avon, Jockey, Chevy and Nissan – and has been featured in such magazines asCosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar and Marie Claire. Easteden’s interests also include those in the humanitarian arena. Not something one might expect from a fashion model, Easteden conducted a comparative legal research study on the different aspects of asylum procedures in selected European countries for United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Bratislava, Slovakia. Her research impacted the Slovak National Asylum Legislation, which was in the process of amendment. Anna then continued her work in Bratislava, with an international partner of The Foundation for a Civil Society (USA), where she involved herself in the “Citizen Campaign OK ’98” for free and fair elections. Easteden currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband. In addition to her modeling and acting, Easteden enjoys traveling, cooking, writing, and lending a humanitarian hand to a number of her favorite non-profit organizations. Websites: www.annaeasteden.com Tweets by AnnaEasteden
From Bret Michaels Rock of Love/Charm School Cindy “Rodeo” Steedle
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have reality show star Cindy “Rodeo” Steedle on the show, she was featured in Bret Michaels’ Rock of Love as well as Sharon Osborne’s Charm School on VH1. Cindy “Rodeo” ‘s story is one of not giving up, from her battle with cancer to battling with her pregnancy and all in between. She is not only a reality show star but she is a top personal trainer, spokesperson for various products, figure competitor and above all a great mom. This interview is one of survival and standing tall, something that Cindy did with some, but shadow it with a smile and a cheerful laugh. She talks about her involved with support our troops, visiting V.A. hospitals and her charity guest appearances that have put a smile on U.S. Soldiers, this is a must listen to interview as it shows you whole the real Cindy Steedle aka “Rodeo” is. Websites: www.crodeo.net http://www.vpxsports.com/ http://www.countrygirljeans.com/
Radio Show Host David Webb
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have host of the radio show “The Grinder” David Webb on the Show. David Webb is a communicator with over 15 years of entertaining and informing the public; a dynamic blend of experience as a Local & Syndicated Talk Show Host, Music On-Air Personality, Producer, Assistant Program Director and Promotion Director; all in Top 10 Markets. A storied run during his radio career has led him through Boston, New York City, Houston and Dallas, and landed him at great stations like WILD-AM, WHTZ-FM, KZFX-FM, KLOL-FM, KKTL-FM (Houston’s first FM Talker) and KRLD-AM. David made the jump to talk, local and syndicated while in Houston with Consumer Finance, LoveRocks and Reality Check; then on to Dallas as Host of “USA@Nite” on the USA Radio Network with KRLD-AM as his flagship station. He has ventured into the print world with Worcester Magazine and the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. David spent some of his time in Dallas as a Decennial Manager for the US Bureau of the Census, responsible for an 8-city region and then various survey projects in TX, LA and MS. He has been recognized for his work by then-Director, Kenneth Prewitt. Active in politics on the local and national level, David is a member of the WNRC’s Henrietta Wells Livermore School of Politics. He is co-founder and moderator of the American Forum Series and Black Republican Forum,co-organizer of the NYC Tax Day Tea Party and co-founder of Tea Party 365, a non-partisan, non-profit advocacy group for fiscal responsibility. Another constant theme is David’s commitment to community through organizations like the Young Marines. A television and radio commentator, David has appeared on radio and TV nationally – CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox News Strategy Room; internationally on BBC Radio and TV, NDTV/India, Dutch National TV, in Saudi Arabia, Germany, Japan, France and Canada. David is a contributing editor to FamilySecurityMatters.org, to American Solutions, and the fill-in host for Andrew Wilkow on SIRIUS Patriot 144 and XM America Right 166. Websites: www.thegrindershow.com www.teaparty365.org
Herbagirl International Founder Lisa Sowle
Lisa Sowle is the founder of Herbagirl International, she hails from Houston TX. At 35 years old, Lisa is the mother of three beautiful girls known affectionately as “The Sowle Sisters” in the world of skateboarding. Her main quote that you can hear her say on any given day is “I LOVE LIFE” Sowle has struggled with being overweight after the birth of her first child. So she tried numerous ways to try and shed those post birth pounds, from diet pills, crazy diets, all the way to starving herself but nothing worked. She admits that at that point she pretty much had given trying to lose weight because she was running out of money and hope! She saw a friend pretty much melt from a size 16 to a 6, and she was 20 years older than Sowle, this was the fire that she needed to want to make this happen for herself. She did the program that her friend did to lose weight, and Lisa Sowle succeeded! Now it has been 10 years since she first shed that 50lbs m going from a tight 12, she admits, to a slim size 4, and she has continued to maintain that slim size 4 through following the guidelines that she set forth in her Herbagirl program. To find out more about Lisa Sowle go to www.lisasowle.com
Actress Joanna Ke
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Actress Joanna Ke on the Show. Up and coming actress Joanna Ke is quickly becoming known as a power house in the independent film community. In “References”, a romantic comedy about a group of 20-somethings in a small town, Ke steals every scene with her portrayal of diabolical Cora. Recently, she co-starred with Sarah Chalke and Leisha Hailey in “Maneater” playing a character completely opposite to her role in “References”, showing her versatile talents. “Maneater” is a Lifetime television miniseries directed by Timothy Busfield and based on the book of the same name by Gigi Levangie. Ironically, Joanna rarely watches romantic comedies in her free time, leaning more towards sci-fi and fantasy as she’s had a lifelong fascination with the paranormal and cryptozoology. However, when it comes to her work, the most important thing for her is not the genre, but to have fun with the character, the people she’s working with, and the story. Ke’s voracious passion for acting led her to study with over 15 acting coaches. One of her primary mentors is an Emmy-award winning producer. Her extensive training, professionalism, and laser-sharp focus on-set afforded her a stellar reputation in the acting community in Arizona. In March 2009, she made the move to LA to further her career and, within 2 months, booked her first gig. She signed with manager Scottie Ward of CCM in July. With the indie horror flick “The Crypt” currently out on DVD, she recently completed a run in the play “8 Shades of Alice.” Her next projects include starring in the title role of the short “Trixie Woo” shooting in November, the release of the feature thriller “Avè Maria” on DVD in fall 2010, the release of the comic to film adaptation “Villikon Chronicles: Genesis of Evil” as well as subsequent comics drawn in her likeness, and, of course, procuring theatrical representation in California. Websites: www.joannake.com http://joannake.wordpress.com/
MTV Real World Star/Music Recording Artist Brianna Taylor
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the talented Brianna Taylor on the show, she is a recording artist and star of MTV’s Real World Road Rules “The Ruins.” Youth, beauty, confidence and talent… Brianna Taylor is blessed with many gifts that move people to react to her in many different ways. She shares her gifts with the world in two ways – by releasing her sophomore album Fireworks At The Fairground via Chamberlain Records and by appearing on THE REAL WORLD – ROAD RULES CHALLENGE “The Ruins” (September 29th, 2009 premiere). After the release of Brianna Taylor’s Spring 2008 self-titled EP, which showcased her vocal ability and garnered much attention in the music landscape, her new album promises even greater notoriety! The sound encompasses a matured Taylor, with an R&B flare that was not present on her debut album. While controversy seemed to follow the 20- year-old Philadelphia native wherever she went in years past, it has led Brianna to become an individual who is honest, outspoken, and unwilling to be mistreated. Brianna chooses to live life on her own terms with an adventurous nature that has admittedly led to a few mistakes in life. Brianna moves on from these mistakes without regret – they have made her into the woman she is today. Music has always been in Brianna’s life. Her early favorites – Natalie Cole, Anita Baker, Sarah Vaughn, Nina Simone, Judy Garland, and Lena Horne – laid the groundwork for her singing style. Christina Aguilera and Hayley Williams of Paramore are more recent favorites along with another influence, Amy Winehouse. “Amy Winehouse is amazing. She delved into musical history and brought it into the modern music scene,” says Brianna. The flair she brought into indie music is so strongly felt.” Brianna’s creative history stems from a long line of talent in her family. Her grandmother was a singer on the radio with her sisters for many years and she passed her love for singing onto her granddaughter. Brianna’s mother was an actress and model, her uncle plays the drums, and her sister is “an amazing dancer” according to the songstress. For everyone in her family, the creative experience has been a cathartic, emotionally laden one. “I can forget everything and just rock out,” she says of the personal effect of singing. Brianna feels that “if someone isn’t really feeling the words they are singing, there is no point in listening. So few singers really make me feel the emotion of the song. I think about that and strive to do that for the listener.” The story of Brianna’s life has certainly some twists and turns. In her earlier years, encouragement from family was rare. As the years went by, it was equally scarce from ex-boyfriends. One of Brianna’s ex-boyfriends abused her and taught her an unfortunate lesson in human nature. When a subsequent boyfriend (the one she spoke of on THE REAL WORLD- Hollywood) laid his hands on her, Brianna (literally) fought back. “Men seem to think it’s okay to restrain your girlfriend. I had every right in the world to fight back,” she explains. A result of this altercation was charges being pressed on her (which Brianna heard about once she got to the REAL WORLD house) and her being sentenced to anger management classes and probation. Brianna’s MTV celebrity status is still something that is taking a bit of getting used to. “I am recognized on the street a lot lately,” she notes. “I am loving every minute of it though. People are nice when they approach me, saying ‘You’re so real and honest. How is your singing career going?’ They are supportive and I love that!” This appreciation has bred closeness with her fans. Brianna gives her fan email lots of attention, personally answering as much as possible. Brianna has been through a considerable amount in her mere 21 years of life. She has opened up her everyday life to public scrutiny via MTV shows like THE REAL WORLD and her new sound on Fireworks At The Fairground goes even deeper and lays her emotions bare as well, this time with a matured personal musical style. “Brianna Taylor actually impressed me , being only 20 and having the full view of the reality TV world was refreshing, after listening to her new single “Criminal”, well the girl has talented, we’ll be seeing a lot of this young songstress for years to come,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: http://www.myspace.com/briannataylorofficial http://twitter.com/BTMusicGrrl
Founder of DiMora Motorcar Alfred DiMora
Louis Velazquez had the unique opportunity to conduct an in-depth interview with a Modern Day Tony Stark, an innovator in some many areas, Alfred DiMora’s journey is one of the most inspirational that we have had on the show, its a story of coming from nothing and building an empire, the American Dream, Alfred DiMora is a prime example of that dream. Alfred DiMora is a native of Rochester, New York, Alfred J. DiMora was fascinated by cars from the age of ten. He worked at service stations in his early teens, during which time he rebuilt a burned-out 1939 Buick before he was old enough to drive. Working in a co-op program, he earned his machinist degree and became a certified welder. In 1976, Mr. DiMora came to Santa Barbara, California to design and build limited-production luxury cars at Clenet Coachworks, as employee number six. Over the next seven years, he took control of Clenet, while also forming Sceptre Motorcar Company. His Sceptre won the Best-of-Show award at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 1978. As owner, CEO, and Chief Automotive Designer at Clenet, he created the Series IV and Series V Clenets. Altogether, over 580 Clenets were produced and sold to celebrities, royalty, and other motor enthusiasts around the world. President Reagan declared 1986 the Centennial Year of the Gasoline-Powered Automobile. Mr. DiMora’s Clenet was selected as the Official Centennial Car. As a result, he and the automobile were honored at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Michigan (pictured at right). Clenets were called “Drive Art” by Automotive Age and the “American Rolls-Royce” by Fortune. As an entrepreneur and business consultant, Mr. DiMora has advised and built companies in industries as diverse as chemical recycling, public relations management, software development, television infomercial production, and real estate development. In the mid-1990s, he innovated in chemical recycling, automobile and truck antifreeze production and distribution, and hazardous waste management at PRS, Inc., in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served on the American Society of Testing and Materials Committee as the first non-chemist. During this period, he created and marketed the first ready-to-use 50/50 antifreeze, which quickly went on to be a bestseller. In 1997, Mr. DiMora founded Star Bridge Systems, Inc. to advance reconfigurable computing technologies. Star Bridge created powerful, high-performance computer platforms and a new software language called Viva, for a new supercomputer platform called hypercomputing. Star Bridge customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and the National Cancer Institute. Mr. DiMora served as Chairman, CEO, and President before leaving the firm to return to California to pursue his first love—motorcars. Mr. DiMora is a major participant in the development of Voyager, the world’s largest Ferris wheel. The first two 600-foot diameter wheels will be built in Las Vegas and Dubai. Sir Alfred J. DiMora was inducted into the Knights of Malta in 2001. He is a member of the Motor Press Guild and the Society of Automotive Engineers. He lives in Palm Springs, California, with his wife, Yvonne, and stepdaughter, Chanel. His stepson, Josh, is in the U.S. Marine Corps. Clenet Clenet is arguably the most beautifully styled automobile series ever built. Each limited-production model was conceived, designed, and produced by a small team of dedicated men and women in Santa Barbara, California in the 1970s and 1980s. The automobile’s distinctive 1930s styling and meticulous hand craftsmanship turned heads wherever they went. Clenets boasted the latest in drive train and suspension system technology under a body of steel giving them superior reliability to go with their beauty. Features such as Italian walnut burl dashboards and etched glass accented by Waterford crystal ashtrays brought many Clenet models under Alfred DiMora’s leadership in at over $100,000. In those days, you could buy a nice house for that price tag. That didn’t stop an eclectic group of buyers ranging from Farrah Fawcett, Rod Stewart, Ken Norton, and Sylvester Stallone to King Hussein of Jordan. Mr. DiMora’s Clenet was selected as the Official Centennial Car in 1986, the year that President Reagan declared the Centennial Year of the Gasoline-Powered Automobile. This put Alfred DiMora and the Clenet into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Michigan. Clenets were called “Drive Art” byAutomotive Age and the “American Rolls-Royce” by Fortune. Sceptre 6.6S 1978 Prototype During the late 1970s, Alfred DiMora and Ray Kinney, two members of the Clenet team, joined Tom McBurnie to form Sceptre Motorcar Company to design and produce a unique luxury sports car. The Sceptre 6.6S was an art deco design with the flavor of the late 1930s classics. This hand-crafted, limited-production, specialty car was reminiscent of such vehicles as Delage, Delahaye, Bugatti, 1935 BMW, Alfa Romeo, 500 XK Mercedes, as well as the 1950s Jaguar. Perhaps the closest car of this style is the Talbot-Lago. Yet the Sceptre is not a replica of any one automobile. Appointments included hand-rubbed lacquer paint and an interior of Connelly leather and walnut burl that complemented the latest in drive train and suspension technology. The Sceptre won the Best-of-Show award at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 1978. Sceptre Motorcar Company produced 15 of these $39,000 automobiles ($50,000 for the turbocharged version) that emphasized sporty features compared to the luxury of the Clenet series of automobiles. Many of these automobiles were acquired by celebrities and dignitaries. The sixteenth was never completed from the factory but exists uncompleted to this day. The body of the Sceptre is made of fiberglass applied to a tubular steel frame. Only the doors are made of steel. The engine is a powerful 400-horsepower V8 connected to a three-speed automatic transmission. The Sceptre will go 0-60 in 7.2 seconds. The weight of the entire car is slightly over 3,000 pounds. The Sceptre is known for its high reliability factor. It is said that no other car has been built like the Sceptre with the exception of the Ferrari. Many articles were written on the Sceptre at its introduction, including: an article by Dennis Adler which appeared in the March 1979 edition of Car Collector,
Original Bad Boy of Wall Street Ross Mandell
Facing Life is not such an easy thing to do. Just ask Ross Mandell. He’s had good times and bad. His highs have been higher than most, and his lows have likewise been lower than most. At the young age of 16 Mandell’s father died suddenly of a massive heart attack. Left without a father, his world shattered, Mandell’s life became rudderless. As he was quoted in the Wall Street Journal, he “lived life in the fast lane.” All that came to a screeching halt 17 years later. Mandell Discovers he has a Disease – Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, During those 17 years, Mandell also became one of the most successful stock brokers on Wall Street. He was part of the telecommunications boom in the late 70s and early 80s that brought Wall Street to Main Street. Along the way, he raised hundreds of millions of dollars for companies and made millions for himself. Yes, the good times were indeed quite good. However, Mandell discovered he had a disease. He suffered from alcoholism and drug addiction. Mandell became a poster child for the go-go days and the boom times on Wall Street. On March 14th, 1996, a front page news article titled, “The Art of Survival,” that appeared in the Wall Street Journal profiled Mandell. “That story threw my life open to the public,” says Mandell, “I was clean and sober for six years, but it discussed the issues and challenges I had with substance abuse.” The echoes of that story have continued to reverberate throughout Mandell’s life and have become an indelible part of his persona. In June 2002, a front page story in the leading daily British newspaper, The Observer, led with the following headline, “Greed is Good Comes to London.” The caption further states, “Gordon Gekko Style Investment banking comes to London in the persona of Ross Mandell.” Naturally, the paper is referring to the lead character played by Michael Douglas in Oliver Stone’s 1987 Oscar-winning film, Wall Street. For all practical purposes, Gekko’s character could likely have been based on Mandell’s life. In October, 2005, Forbes Magazine in a two page spread proclaimed Mandell as Wall Street’s “bad boy broker,” in an article titled, Second Act, which featured Ross Mandell and Sky Capital’s success in the Wall Street arena. One fateful day, September 27th, 1973, a day that changed Mandell’s life forever, David Mandell, Ross’s father, unexpectedly died from a heart attack on Rosh Hashanah, a religious holiday. Thus began a whirling dervish of Dionysian decadence for nearly two decades. Mandell now found himself bottomed out, burned out and broke. Mandell was a living cliché. Lots of money, fast cars, fast women, and all the trappings of early success. From the outside he had it all. On the inside he was empty. Of that moment, Mandell says, “I woke up one day and realized I couldn’t continue to live like this, I was a wreck and a million dollars in debt, all at the age of 33.” In October, 1990, Mandell checked himself into the Silver Hill Foundation, a world famous rehabilitation clinic, in New Canaan, Connecticut. He was there for 28 days. It was the first time that he was clean and sober since his teen years. At Silver Hill, he was introduced to the 12-Step Program, Alcoholics Anonymous. “The AA program is amazing,” says Mandell, “my life changed immediately for the better.” AA is a spiritual program that emphasizes personal admission, moral inventory and service. “Recovery is not an easy thing,” says Mandell, “its’ a daily struggle and the most difficult thing I have accomplished in my life.” On October 12th, 2009, Mandell celebrated 19 years of continuous sobriety. Upon leaving Silver Hill, Mandell’s personal and professional life, bolstered by the principals of AA, became better than ever. Built like a bull-dog, dressed in the finest suits, with the swagger of body-builder meets investment banker, Mandell dedicated himself to work, fitness and sobriety. Mandell’s public profile continued to grow and earn him close media attention as well as scrutiny by financial regulators. In 1995, in a blanket settlement with the New York Stock Exchange, he was suspended from securities dealing for six weeks. In another instance he settled a difference with a trading client for $75,000. “That’s the price you pay when your professional and personal life become public,” says Mandell. The 90s were a great time to be on Wall Street. Fueled by a stimulated Clinton economy and a technology boom, the capital markets expanded to new heights. During the next decade Mandell went on to work for, founded and funded many companies. Along the way he closed scores of transactions worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Mandell, with two other partners, went on to create Roan Capital Partners, a New York City-based, NASD registered broker-dealer. After leading and successfully managing its rapid growth Mandell sold his interest and went on to join the Thornwater Company as a Senior Vice President. By the end of the 90s Mandell felt the market changing. “The boom was about to bust,” says Mandell of that time, “and I thought this the right moment to try something new and different.” Mandell, ever independent, intuitive and entrepreneurial, decided to start an international Merchant Bank and stock broker, Sky Capital Holdings. He raised $9 million dollars to seed the venture, but even more dramatically, Mandell brought his company overseas. “I was the first American to bring a regulated U.S. company to the London Stock Exchange,” says Mandell. In July 2002, Sky Capital went public on London’s Alternative Investment Market. On the day it went public the company was valued at more than $30 million. On two separate occasions, Ross Mandell and Sky Capital were privileged to speak and to host luncheons in the British Parliament. Matthew Carrington, a former member of the British Parliament, and Alexander Duma, a parliamentary appointee, were also members of the Board of Sky Capital, as was former Senator, Larry. L Pressler. According to
All American EFX Nutrition Founder Brian Andrews
Interview with All American EFX supplement company founder Brian Andrews. Brian Andrews is the President of All American EFX, one the fastest growing Sport Nutrition Companies in the industry. They are best known for their multi-patented, award-winning creatine product, Kre-Alkalyn® EFX. Brian is the author of “Creatine: Industry Insider Secrets Revealed”. He was a featured expert in the book, “The Dangers of Creatinine” and a guest on numerous industry-related radio shows. Brian has been involved with Bodybuilding and Powerlifting for over 22 years. He currently lives in Bakersfield, California, with his wife and their 3 kids. What Is The “EFX Way”? Like most people, we spent the early years of our training careers beating our heads against the same proverbial wall as every other athlete looking for the magic “secret”. We know the pain and frustration of being skinny, weak, and feeling inferior. After trying every new supplement and training program we could find, we realized that each athlete (us included) faced the same three problems: 1) Too much B.S.! It’s nearly impossible to know where to go or who you can trust for real unbiased information about what works and what doesn’t, 2) Not having the genetics or “pharmaceutical” connections it takes to become an elite competitor. 3) Lack of quality products that meet label claims…and actually work! It continued to get more and more frustrating. Then one day, we decided we’d had enough. That’s when we decided to create a company that could help athletes everywhere overcome these three problems listed above: All American EFX. Our unique approach to business, the principles we follow, combined with our passion for excellence developed into what we now call the “EFX Way’. Our Passion Became Our Vision We started in this industry as consumers just like you. That’s why we decided to do things differently from day one. You see, we knew the last thing this industry needed was another supplement company pitching an endless array of fancy products with slick labels, pushed by overhyped ads. Instead we committed ourselves to our vision of creating something for our customers something that truly serves their needs and will ultimately live on past us—our legacy. It’s an ongoing, never ending process because there is always room for improvement. But just like building the ‘perfect’ body, there are few pursuits more fulfilling. We want to help you get the most out of your body; to find your limits, and then push past them by using cutting-edge supplements… instead of drugs. This way you maximize the benefits while minimizing the side-effects and risks commonly associated with drugs. In the end, we steadfastly and unapologetically believe we offer the very best way to do it. We’re Advocates For The “Bodybuilding Lifestyle” – Or What We Call The “EFX Way” Why? Because we believe it offers more advantages than almost anything you can do. Not to mention nearly every other exercise discipline has bodybuilding principles, in one way or another, at its core. Unfortunately, bodybuilding has somehow become more and more about “appearance at all costs” than anything else. Seriously, who cares if you look great on the outside, but you’re more like a rotten potato on the inside? That’s not the bodybuilding we know and love. We think it’s time to redefine what bodybuilding means…to take it back to why most people started doing it in the first place: for improved health, greater self-esteem and improved performance. (Of course, looking great certainly doesn’t hurt either!). Our version of bodybuilding is all about the journey you take while pursuing your version of perfection. It’s the sacrifice and the discipline. It’s doing what others are simply NOT willing to do or only wish they could. Furthermore, there are thousands of bodybuilders who are just as “hardcore” as any Pro when it comes to the day-in, day-out dedication and full on blood-and-guts training it takes to build a more muscular body. The fact is, most of these people will never set foot on a competitive stage. Life is their stage. And we say it’s about time all these individuals were recognized for their efforts too. Our Commitment Is To Your Success We know that real success comes from an ongoing relationship; not just selling you products. Our business philosophy is simple: When you grow and succeed, we grow and succeed. Some companies will tell you what you want to hear to make a sale. Instead, we tell you what you need to hear in order to grow and succeed. And we love building quality products that help make it happen faster and easier for you. The “get big quick” merchants have failed you. They play games with your self-esteem. Fly-by-night companies take your money and don’t deliver. Others just flat-out insult your intelligence. That’s why we take pride in the fact that we’re straight shooters. There aren’t any tricks in what we do; it’s just good old-fashioned principles at work. And if some see our “straight-up, no-nonsense” approach as a gimmick, so be it. We can’t please everybody. It can take years to win a customer…but only seconds to lose one. That’s why we believe the best way to let you know we truly uphold our values — the very values in which you invest your trust — is to open our doors and let you confirm it for yourself so you can hold us accountable. We Don’t Play Games… We Just Help You Win Them We love what we do, and we have fun doing it. We try not to take ourselves too seriously here at All American EFX. But we are dead serious when it comes to helping people build real, drug-free muscle. We always have been, and will always be, committed to doing whatever benefits our customers the most. We’re here to give you the tools, information and inspiration you need to reach your goals. As we lead the Sports Nutrition Industry into a new era of innovation, information and integrity, our Mission, combined with the needs of our customers, will determine
Comedian Amy Tee
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Comedian Amy Tee on the show. In the world of comedy , fans usually only see the end result, they see the performance on stage or in film and television, now the journey to that point is a different matter entirely. During this great segment with comedian Amy Tee we hear about the struggles involved for her to get to this point in her career, from having to deal with the concern of her well being solely because she may have performed at a location that doesn’t accept the alternative lifestyle. Initially we weren’t really sure where the conversation would lead but it gave our listeners a greater insight into this great comedian, and above that she is a dynamite person. Too often people fail to see what happens behind the great curtain where the “Great Oz” resides, but if you take the time to pull back that curtain as we do with the UCW Radio Show, you will see that amidst all the hoopla, hype, lights and cameras, there are real people there, just like you and me. So we make it a point to bring that to the table as we did with Amy Tee, now here is a little more about Amy Tee. Identified as a rising star by the Boston Globe, Amy Tee is one of the busiest comedians on the New England scene. Her surprising observations and illuminating presence have scored points with mainstream and alternative audiences from Los Angeles to Provincetown, whether she’s performing in world famous comedy clubs, theaters, or lesser-known holes in the wall. Her takes on life as a “lesbian in the mainstream” are delivered with a quiet style that belies its edgy content, leading the audience to laughter and nods of agreement. Amy is a regular performer at the Boston Comedy Festival, and audio clips of her performances there have been played on XM Satellite Radio. In 2007, Amy headlined her own show “Tee”’Zing her way to the Top” in Provincetown, and was the co-headliner in “Two Dyke Minimum,” a standup tour that played in clubs and theaters in six northeast states. She currently stars in the film “Laughing Matters…Next Gen” airing on LOGO. Tee is a superb comedian, but all of that aside she is an awesome person, after speaking with her during her trip to New York, I learned so much about her and her struggles and triumphs in the world of comedy, nothing candy coated. This is a person that appreciates all that life has given her and has such a positive attitude, we look for great things from Amy Tee, her future is bright, her attitude is poised for greatness,” said Louis Velazquez – Host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: http://www.amytee.com/ http://www.myspace.com/amyteehee
Film Director and Actress Rita B-Lamote
At 12 years old, Rita B-Lamotte was selected to be a part of a theatrical group called : “le theatre du grand bleu”. At 17, she put her feet for the first time on the movie set: “Gladiator” by Ridley Scott. And “film biz” was discovered… From there, all started for her. Front this point in, it all started. Then, Rita went to Nice, France to study psychology at Sophia-Antipolis University where she got her Master’s degree. During her studies, her love for cinema never left her. She then attended UCLA Extension where she received the director’s certificate in “ Film and entertainment study”. There she got noticed by USC’s Teachers, and had the opportunity to follow the USC program. Meanwhile, Rita went on sets of big productions as: “The Transporter”, “Brice de Nice”, “What just Happened”, “Prince of Persia”, “Mogadishu”… as Actor, background actor (or as PA for learning process)… Today, Rita pursues her career as an actress and a writer Rita is open to working with up and coming producers and directors globally with the right projects, she can be reach on her directors website which is http://www.rikitafilm.com Fans can learn more about Rita by going to her official website at www.ritablamotte.com Websites: Directors Site: www.rikitafilm.com Official Site: www.ritablamotte.com
Martial Arts Leader Master Alan Goldberg
Master Alan Goldberg has 37 years experience in the martial arts and has been inducted in 36 Halls of Fame. Among the other systems he has studied besides studying Wing Chun Kung Fu, he has also studied Five Animal Kung Fu and Shotokan karate. He now devotes his time to the teaching of Wing Chun. He is the creator of Law Enforcement Survival Systems (L.E.S.S.), which was taught to the New York City Emergency Service Unit of the police department. He is also the New York State Commissioner of ORA. Master Goldberg is Grandmaster Jason Lau’s number one disciple, having been right alongside him from his days in the Flatbush Avenue neighborhood. He has been seen and heard in magazines, newspapers, television, cable, and radio throughout the United States. He also has several instructional video credits, and is also the publisher of Action Martial Arts Magazine. Action Martial Arts Magazine is a quarterly publication for Martial Artists, which contains a variety of articles and interviews from various masters and celebrities in the martial arts world. Articles range in content from nutrition in the martial arts to advisement by masters on how to improve your skills. It is the official magazine carrying the ratings for F.A.M.E, New England Karate Commission and the Work Karate Union. After ten years, they have grown to become the largest FREE FULL COVERAGE magazine on the market today. Recently, they put together and carried out the largest Martial Arts Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony and weekend ever seen in the history of the martial arts. It was held January 20th, 2001 at the Tropicana Hotel and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ, and was the largest catered event in Atlantic City history, PERIOD. There were 1400 Martial Arts personalities and Hollywood celebrities in attendance, including Gary Alexander, Cynthia Rothrock, Dan Severn, Phil Morris, Master Pan, Joe Hess, Michael DePasquale Jr., Meridith Hunt and Joe Piscopo. Official Website www.alangoldberg.net Event Website: www.actionmagstore.com
Film/TV Producer/Music Legend Brett Hudson
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Hollywood mainstay and a true warrior as he battled/won his fight against cancer, the great Brett Hudson on the show. Brett Hudson is Kate Hudson’s uncle! That’s what his friends say nowadays, but back in the Seventies, Brett was a star in his own right. With Bill and Mark, he was one of The Hudson Brothers, network television comedy stars and Top 40 recording artists signed to Elton John’s Rocket Records and produced by Bernie Taupin. Their CBS prime-time series, The Hudson Brothers Show, the summer replacement for The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour put them on the map and began a friendship with Cher that flourishes to this day. The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show twisted the minds of a generation and led their drinking buddy John Lennon to dub them “The Kings of Saturday morning.” Brett and his brothers later wrote, produced and starred in the hit international TV series, Bonkers, Showtime’s first comedy film shorts, and the 1983 film comedy, Hysterical. Then he lost his hair and moved on to a prosperous writing and producing career that included the Showtime series, A Family Tree; Fox Television’s Bizarre Moments, Hidden Videos, and Your American Pop Quiz; and a number of comedy specials including The Cindy Williams Comedy Special on the Family Channel. He returned to performing with brother Mark in King World’s off-the-wall comedy series, Offshore Television, which he also wrote and produced. Brett also wrote sitcoms and film scripts and recently produced the popular DVD, Christian Comedy Live! (When asked by an Nashville newspaper reporter to cite an example of good Christian comedy, Brett replied, “Jerry Seinfeld.” Think about it.) Today, an unexpected Hudson Brothers renaissance is underway with the release this month of their Razzle Dazzle shows on DVD. “Brett’s warrior spirit is truly one of inspiration and courage, from his times with Farrah Fawcett to his path to fighting for his life and then paying it forward today, I was honored to have him on the UCW Radio Show,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.frozenpictures.com
Martial Artist / Action Film Actress Suzzana Stefankovicova
Interview with Martial Arts Action Star Suzzana Stefankovicova interviewed by Louis Velazquez I want to take this opportunity to thank Suzzana once again for granting me this interview. She is one of the most genuine and sweet hearted people in martial arts and Hollywood for that matter. I am proud to know her and be able to tell her story to the young martial artist worldwide that have supported Karate Kidz Online and Suzzana in our endeavors. She has been and always will be an inspiration to me and I know that she has had that effect on many young martial artist and action stars around the globe. December 2002 Interview LV: HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN MARTIAL ARTS SS: I started when I was ten. My father decided to take me and my sister to dojo after a group of older boys from the street we lived in, have beaten us up . The moment I stepped in , I knew that the atmosphere there wouldn’t let me leave so easily. I was amazed and fascinated by all those weird movement our master would teach us . It was fun for me, though my sister hated all that running around the dojo and as she confessed later on, while torturing herself by stretching her legs, she’s been actually observing the details of the fabrics her tracksuit were made of . My sister quit to do dancing and i went on with karate. LV: HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING AND WHO WAS YOUR MAIN INSPIRATION? SS: It was in 1985 when I started martial arts. At that time ,for most of the people in my country, the notion of martial arts was something new or even unknown .There haven’t been many martial artist in Eastern Europe at that time. Because the doors to the Western world have been closed to most of the eastern European countries , there were just few masters coming to our country from Asia to teach their culture and mainly martial arts. Because there was no chance for us to travel abroad at that time, it was very hard if not almost impossible to see any foreign movies in our theatres. There have been just few action movies we got a chance to see with Jean Claude van Damme in the late 80´s, but that was about it. We never got to see Jackie Chan or Jet Li movies. People would talk about Bruce Lee in the dojo, but that’s as far as it went. However, when I look back and think about movies with van Damme I have to say I was impressed. Even though I didn’t have a chance to see many action stars I must confess that I really liked his style. I was impressed by his flexibility ,high kicks and very clear technique , thought it was really amazing . So… yes, I can say that he was my main inspiration at the very beginning. LV: MARTIAL ARTS HAVE BECOME A PART OF OF YOUR LIFESTYLE, DO YOU PLAN ON INCREASING YOUR KNOWLEDGE OR ARE YOU CONTENT? SS: Oh yeah! I`m just little bit afraid that one life would not be enough to learn everything I`m planning to! There are still so many things to learn! I would love to learn more and more styles of martial arts, get deeper into psychology and philosophy and to start writing more articles of this kind. To motivate people and encourage them to step out on their life journey in a direction they consider to be right and also not to be afraid to make their dreams come true. So let’s go! Gooo! Me myself am only at the very beginning of my journey ,in a constant process of learning, exploring and I hope constant growth too. I know this process will take throughout my whole existence. But I`m happy because with each and every day I`m learning something new and with each day I grow and I don’t know where the limits for this growth are. It’s amazing feeling and I’m having a fun! LV: DO YOU HAVE ANY MOVIES OR TELEVISION APPEARANCES ON THE HORIZON? SS: At this moment I`m probably gonna disappoint most of my fans. I`m taking a little break from action stuff , which means movies and TV works with martial arts included. Well…I didn`t really plan this break, but unfortunately my health condition is very weaken and doesn´t allow me to work . Hopefully It`s gonna take only a little time but I promise to my fans that all this waiting will be worth it! Meanwhile they can see me in some magazines here in US and in Europe. I however don´t drop out working on films or TV projects , but as already mentioned , my health problems don´t allow me to fully work at the moment .I will definitely keep you updated ,indeed. I would love to thank to all of my fans for their support and love! LV: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOW MARTIAL ARTS BECOMING A MAIN STREAM IN TODAY’S SOCIETY? SS: Martial arts is a life style and it has a strong spiritual background . It can teach and help us to choose our life journey , to step out in a direction that we consider thanks to these spiritual influences to be the right one for us. It can teach us to find important values in our lives , give us vital life energy, positive thinking, vitality, discipline, self-awareness and awareness of our needs. I also believe it does miracles to our body and mind when they´re weaken and suffer from lack of energy . What more can i add ??? I´ m really happy that more and more people are discovering the beauty and the power of martial arts and I´m honesty grateful that i can be a part of this all. I must have been blessed to be aware of all that great things martial arts
Based on HBO’s “True Blood” Series, It’s “Tru Blood” The Drink
Today on the UCW Radio Show UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez had the unique opportunity to have on the founder of Omni Consumer Products (OCP) Pete Hottelet, he is the brainchild behind a company that has spawned a new and groundbreaking marketing craze by bringing fictitious brands shown in movies and television series’ to life. Some of his past success launches include: Sex Panther Cologne,Licensed from the filmAnchorman. 60% of the time, it works every time and Brawndo: The Thirst Mutilator, Licensed from the Mike Judge film Idiocracy. It’s got what plants crave, His latest endeavor is Tru Blood, this is the popular drink of vampires on the HIT HBO series “TRUE BLOOD”, and due to the vision of Hottelet and a journey that was in effect well before the premiere of the first season of True Blood, now fans worldwide can be a part of the show by picking up a 2 pound glass of Tru Blood the Drink, it is an exact replication of the drink in the series and of course this is in a direct partnership with HBO. The drink which can be purchased now on their official websitewww.trubeverage.com , comes in red glass bottles made to look like the drink served on the series. The main difference being that the beverage consumer will be drinking is blood orange flavored soda rather than synthetic blood. I don’t think that the marketing would’ve went well with a drink that had a blood like taste, people they are trying to reach a mainstream consumer base and not the select few, sorry to disappoint you. The drinks can be ordered in 4 packs from HBO’s True Blood website at around $16 per 4 pack or approximately $4 a bottle plus shipping, now compare that to can of red bull or a coffee from Starbucks and you are not too far off. For those that do not want to pay the shipping, well you can wait for it to hit your local FYE or Borders, and you can buy it by the bottle and connect with the show in that way. Most marketing campaigns for a film or TV series, as far as beverages go, entail a plastic cup at McDonalds or Burger King with the pictures on it, years ago you actually has collectors glasses of your favorite sports team, so this is an evolution in the marketing strategies being launched at studios and in my opinion it is only the beginning. Granted at this point Tru Blood is identical in every way to the drink in the series but I am certain that there will be a number of ties ins, contest and more that will be exclusive to Tru Blood the beverage and True Blood the series, it just makes all the sense in the world. Look for Tru Blood to create lots of buzz when it hits the stores, although True Blood the series is more geared towards adults, with Alan Ball behind the show and a series of books lined up and more being written, the longevity factor is in place so expect Tru Blood the beverage to just increase in popularity once its available for mass consumption. – Louis Velazquez – Host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.trubeverage.com http://www.hbo.com/trueblood/
Former WCW Pro Wrestling Superstar The Stro
Robert Kellum aka The Stro and former WCW superstar known as “The Maestro” He is also actor but best known as The Maestro in World Championship Wrestling. He has also had success in the United States Wrestling Association and Smokey Mountain Wrestling, as well as the World Wrestling Council. One of his previous ring names, Gorgeous George III, is an homage to his great uncle, the original “Gorgeous”George Wagner. Kellum currently competes as The Stro across the U.S and overseas on occasion along with acting part time for television and film. He has also guest starred on several episodes of the television series One Tree Hill and is set to star in the upcoming horror films 12-24 and Deader Country. Having a theatrical and musical background in addition to having experience as a collegiate wrestler (which included freestyle/Greco-Roman wrestling), Kellum began training under veterans Nelson Royal, Gene Anderson and Ivan Koloff before making his professional debut on January 1, 1990 against ACW champion L.A. Stevens in Kannapolis, North Carolina. He wrestled Ivan Koloff and Chief Wahoo McDaniel early in his career and competed in many independent promotions in the southeast. Shortly after his debut on the independent circuit, he eventually appeared on WCW Saturday Night making his debut under the name Robbie Eagle against Sting in 1991. After his release from WCW, Kellum began operating a wrestling school out of Jacksonville, North Carolina. He later returned to the Southeastern area as The Stro competing for Atlantic Championship Pro Wrestling, Mason-Dixon Wrestling, the Independent Wrestling Federation, North American Championship Wrestling, and the National Wrestling Alliancewho has held victories over Demolition Ax, The Barbarian as well as faced “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan and Ivan Koloff. He was later defeated by Shark Boy in the opening round of Nick Mayberry’s HCW Incredible 8 Tournament on July 13, 2002. That same year, he Won the CAPW TV title and feuded with Balls Mahoney and other top stars of CAPW in Cleveland, Ohio. Kellum also won the ACCW title for a second time in a rumble match in Wilmington, NC and later feuded with Cold Cash D, Flex Phenom and Dave Renegade. Kellum became a two time NACW champion feuding with “Mr. USA” Tony Atlas, Ricky Morton, Jake Roberts, Carnage, and Brad Hunter, leader of a faction called “Damage Inc.” along with Main Attraction and Rico Rage. Facing his former tag team partner Lodi at PPCW in Conway, South Carolina, Kellum also won the SCW title in Dayton, Ohio. Stro won the WCEW title and feuded with Magnum T.R., Ali Steele, Ouga Booga, Justin Feeche, Bobby Eaton, and Aaron Devil. Was a part of the “Triple Heat” group along with Aaron Devil and Steve Michaels who was later replaced by P Roc. With “Mr. USA” Tony Atlas, The Patriot and Ranger Ross, he feuded with Ivan Koloff & The Russian Army in late 2005 as well as defeating The Barbarian at the Ricky Morton Benefit Show on February 2, 2006. He currently is still very active not only in the ring but outside as well training the next generation of pro wrestling superstars inside the walls of his North Carolina training facilities. Websites: www.thestro.com www.twitter.com/thestro
Michael Lohan, Father of Lindsay Lohan
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the father of actress Lindsay Lohan, Michael Lohan, on the show. This EXCLUSIVE interview was graciously given to the UCW Radio Show, Michael Lohan touches on his wishes for his daughter and a situation that involves the celebrity gossip reporter/writer/blogger Mario Lavandeira aka “Perez Hilton” , he was pretty direct with his thoughts on the media and his beliefs.
W1 MMA CEO Jack Bateman
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the co-founder of the top mixed martial arts organizations in Canada, Warrior One MMA or better known W1 MMA, Jack Bateman on the show. Jack Bateman is the President and CEO of Premier Entertainment and Warrior One Mixed Martial Arts. Jack was born and raised In Toronto, Ontario and is the son of a highly successful general contractor. Jack got in to the trades at age 17 and by 20 was the youngest licensed electrician in the province of Ontario . In 1998 Jack started a highly successful electrical contracting business. In 2000 Jack officially began his journey into martial arts training at Warrior MMA in Newmarket , Ontario . Jack forged a reputation as a high level competitor on Ontario jujitsu competition circuit for 5 years and was the winner of the Canadian jujitsu association 4 round tournament in 2006. In 2007 he was injured in training shortly after retired from competitive action. Over the years Jack has travelled the world and been actively involved in training and assisting some of Canada ’s best fighters in the world’s most prestigious mixed martial arts promotions including the UFC and Pride Fighting in Japan . Jack quickly fell in love with the sport of mixed martial arts and became one of Canada most knowledgeable individuals. Jack found however that many MMA promotions and promoters were only in the sport to make a quick buck which sullied the sport that he loved. In 2008 armed with years of experience in promotions, training, business and management Jack opted to start his own MMA promotion. Teaming up with Ian Brewster, Jack co founded Warrior One MMA. In less than a year Warrior One MMA has quickly established itself as Canada ’s premier MMA promotion and under the leadership of Bateman has forged a deal with the SCORE television network which will make Warrior One the highest watched Canadian based MMA event ever. And could be the most watched MMA second only to second only to the UFC for shows produced in Canada . ABOUT WARRIOR ONE MMA “W-1: WARRIOR-1” is The finest in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competition. The evolution of combat. Featuring only professional, elite fighters from around the globe, W-1 is a competitive event pitting warrior against warrior in hand-to-hand battles of skill, honor and art. From Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to wrestling, Muay Thai to boxing, all styles are encouraged. But, in order to consistently win, participants must be well versed in every aspect of the fighting game. W-1, It’s about punches, kicks, elbows, knees, big knockouts, technical submissions, take-downs and strategy. It’s like no other sport you’ve ever seen! W-1 continues to strive to take the sport to the mainstream. There are rules to protect the competitors and the sport is as safe, if not safer, than most of the major league American sports. Which style will reign supreme? Which man will be left standing? Who will be the number #1 WARRIOR? Each W-1 event features feature veteran fighters from some of the most prestigious mixed martial arts promotions including the UFC, PRIDE, APEX, IFL, KING OF THE CAGE and TKO. W-1‘s stable of fighters have fought around the globe and have held belts and won championships in every major MMA event. W-1 chooses only the best warriors to compete for glory and honor in the cage! W-1 events will feature a full 24™ circular cage with cat walk and in the tradition of some of the best MMA events from North America and Japan will also have special effects for grand entrances (cage lights, smoke, fire™ etc). This is where the action happens. This is where men go head to head and blow for blow. This is where men enter as men and leave as WARRIORS. Websites: www.w1mma.com
Cage Fighting Xtreme Founder Linda Shields
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Cage Fighting Xtreme Founder/Promoter Linda Shields on the Show. In a sport that is so clearly dominated by men one woman didn’t see that as a barrier but more of an opportunity. Linda Shields is the founder of Cage Fighting Xtreme, and is making noise through out the mixed martial arts world. The big day was January 12 2009, on that day Linda Shields went into the MMA history books by being one of the strongest MMA promoters not only in her own backyard of New England but through out the United States. Shields is a lady by every definition of the word but when it comes to Cage FX she rolls up her sleeves and takes it to the Xtreme. Her first major event was back in January of 2009 when Shields had the unique honor of being the first female MMA promoter in the New England area and rocked a 2,200 seat Worcester Palladium Arena. In the world of MMA promoting the gender shouldn’t be an issue, however it is a male dominated domain so when a female makes her make it sends s rumble from sea to shining sea, this is what Linda Shields did when she entered into the MMA promoting realm. Her motivation is simple, its behind the business aspect of it, in her own words, “The excitement, seeing the overwhelming response from the Full Force shows and interacting with the fans, the fighters, and the sponsors it’s a an exciting opportunity,” stared Shields. Now those of you that may not be familiar with Linda Shields, then lets clue you in , she is not a new kid on the block as it relates to the MMA arena, she has been the Marketing & Promotions Director for Full Force Productions, a MMA promoter based in Plymouth, Massachusetts which promotes MMA events under the “Untamed” banner, for well over a year. In her time there she learned a lot about appreciation , not just of the fans but the fighters, vendors, sponsors and the press, she holds everyone in the highest regard and does not take their part in the growth of Cage FX for granted. Although Cage FX was the latest upstart MMA promotion in the Northeast, it has quickly rose to the top of the MA promotion charts not only on a regional stand point but on a National stand point. Shields on Cage FX “I have absolutely no concerns about fans supporting Cage Fighting Xtreme, even with our falling economy I really believe people find the time and money for leisure and excitement. There is no shortage of sales for our shows, I really believe people find the time for excitement and that’s exactly what we’ll be giving them!” Shields has built the organization around the local talent , and that has proven to be a key point in not only curbing expenses but also growing the fan based in the area. Shields plans on keeping to that winning plan and this is what she had to say, “I’m weary of recruiting fighters from other states and other countries just because it’s taking a chance away from our local fighters, I want to help our local athletes promote themselves and showcase their talents. New England is packed with talented MMA athletes as we’ve already seen with the Lauzon’s, Kenny Florian, Josh Grispi, Marcus Davis, Dale Hartt, and Pat Schultz. Cage Fighting Xtreme will be the place where New England’s secondgeneration of MMA stars ignite their careers!” MORE ABOUT LINDA SHIELDS Linda Shields, founder and president of Cage Fighting Xtreme and the “first female promoter of mixed martial arts in New England,” has quickly become “the one to watch” in the fastest growing and ever changing ever world of MMA promotions. No stranger to the PR and marketing world, Linda spent eight years working for The Bean Agency PR firm in New York. She successfully implemented and oversaw marketing and sales strategies for Alaska Airlines, Smith & Wesson Club 1852, Reed Exhibitions Shot Show Outfitter’s Post, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and Shot Show TV Showcase. Shields even lead the team project to pass Senate Bill 659 that developed into Senate Bill 397 to ultimately ending in a law. After honing her skills as a marketing executive within the business, Linda, not one to shy away from a challenge, positioned herself to tap into the unused potential she saw within the sport by creating CFX in December of 2008. Since then, her and her team have managed not only to sell out venues, but have repeatedly set the record for the largest and most exciting events in the New England area. Also, with an extensive professional background, a love for extreme sports, (Shields is trained in firearms) and her experience in the entertainment industry in which she worked as a makeup artist to the stars. Linda made a seamless transition into the world of MMA Promotions by creating CageFX in September of 2008 with great success. Shields has a creative perspective on what it takes to keep an audience entertained while at the same time giving them top notch fights to keep them coming back for more. Live Music, fireworks, and celebrity sightings are just a few examples of what you may see at one of her events. Shields’ shows are repeatedly sold out events. She and her team have already set the record for the largest and most exciting MMA event to ever hit the New England area Combine all of this with her fierce, no nonsense approach to business, her exceptional dedication to her fighters (most of whom have signed on with CageFX exclusively,) and her love for the sport in general, and you have a force that the world of Mixed Martial Arts had best be ready to reckon with because Linda Shields, it seems, is about ready to take the industry by storm. “Linda Shields is the true definition
Author/Vintage Fashion Expert Roseann Ettinger
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Author and an authority on vintage clothing, fashion and jewelry, Roseann Ettinger on the show. Roseann Ettinger has always been fascinated with the history of fashion. She built and owns “Remember When”, a vintage clothing store in Hazleton Pennsylvania, and has taken the photographs for and written many books on twentieth century clothing and jewelry. Raised n Hazleton, PA and a graduate of Bloomsburg University, Roseann Ettinger has taken graduate studies at East Stroudsburg University. The wife of a retired army major, Mrs Ettinger has traveled extensively through out the United States. She has owned and run antique jewelry and vintage clothing boutiques in Virginia, Pennsylvania,Kentucky, and New Jersey. She currently owns one of the largest vintage clothing stores on the east coast,”Remember When” at 21 W. Broad St, Hazleton Pennsylvania. She has previously written Handbags, 20th century Neckties: Pre-1955, Compacts and Smoking Accessories, Popular Jewelry of the 60’s ,70’s, 80’s, and 50’s Popular Fashions for Men, Women, Boys & Girls. Her books provide guidance for the collector and a documented reference for the professional. “INSPIRED BY AMBER” WAS ORIGINALLY ESTABLISHED IN THE EARLY 1980S BY ROSEANN ETTINGER WITH THE HELP OF HER YOUNG DAUGHTER, AMBER LEE. DECIDING TO TAKE A SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT PATH FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS, ROSEANN ETTINGER BEGAN RESEARCHING PERIOD JEWELRY AND WRITING BOOKS ON ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES SPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUE JEWELRY AND VINTAGE CLOTHING. SHE ALSO ESTABLISHED “REMEMBER WHEN”, AN ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE IN HAZLETON, PENNSYLVANIA. AMBER GREW UP TO EARN A DEGREE IN FASHION DESIGN, MODEL AND ACT IN NEW YORK CITY. CURRENTLY, THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM HAS RE-FOCUSED AND ESTABLISHED THEIR JEWELRY LINE ONCE MORE, THIS TIME WITH A TOUCH OF THE PAST AND A FRESHNESS OF TODAY. “The journey of Roseann Ettinger is one of the greatest stories never told, going from a thought to a dream, then from a dream to making it a reality, authoring numerous books, developing one of the most brilliant vintage stores on the East Coast to being a great mom, she’s done alot in her life, and we are honored to be the first to tell her story on the UCW Radio Show, thank you Roseann, ” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show.
Author Jeffrey Kaye
Jeffrey Kaye is a journalist, writer, and producer. He is the author of Moving Millions: How Coyote Capitalism Fuels Global Immigration (Wiley, 2010). He is a special correspondent for the PBS News Hour, public television’s week nightly news program, and a contributor to World Report, the public affairs program of HDNet television. He reports and writes on immigration issues for various media outlets, and is a frequent public speaker and commentator on the subject. Kaye’s abiding interest in immigration is formed in part by his own history. Along with his parents and sister, he himself immigrated to the United States from England in 1963. His grandparents and great grandparents were immigrants to England from Poland. As a journalist he has covered immigration on four continents. And as a resident of El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula (Los Angeles, California), he has seen the world arrive on his doorstep. Over the past years, assignments took him to Europe, Latin America, Asia, and North Africa, where he has covered such subjects as gun running, the global economic crisis, immigration, the drug trade, and the treatment of prisoners at Guantánamo Bay. Kaye began reporting for the News Hour in 1984, and covered a wide variety of stories, including urban politics, housing, health care, factory farming, weapons systems, government contracting, predatory lending, and space exploration. Between 1980 and 1984, Kaye was a reporter and senior producer at KCET-TV (PBS) in Los Angeles. Previously, he worked as a magazine writer, a freelance reporter for National Public Radio, a TV producer, and as a special correspondent for the Washington Post and other publications. Website: www.jeffreykaye.net
Fitness Model/Athlete Charla Cormier
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Fitness Model/Athlete Charla Cormier on the Show. Charla Cormier is not only a mother but she is a wife and top rated athlete and fitness model. She grew up in a small town called Marble Falls, Texas and she was the youngest of 3 children. When Charla was 5 years old her parents signed her up for gymnastics class; this was the beginning of an amazing journey for Charla as her love for fitness kicked into high gear. By the age 8 she was a competitive gymnast. In High School she was a varsity Cheerleader, Drill Team Dancer and played Volleyball, all the while still an active athlete. Charla admits that she did not grow up with that sleek toned body of an athlete. After graduating Marble Falls High School in 1992, she taught Gymnastics and attended Austin Community College. She quickly realized college was not for her and continued to follow her passion for fitness. Determined to finally figure out how to achieve that sleek toned body, she became a certified personal trainer and eventually went on to manage a GNC (General Nutrition Center) Store. She learned so much from both jobs, but still did not achieve the body of her dreams. In 2000 Charla got married to her wonderful and supportive husband Rob. The couple resided in Austin, TX at the time and like most couples decided to start a family; Charla and Rob wasted no time and she got pregnant right away. Unfortunately, during the 7th month of her pregnancy the doctors had to do an emergency C-section because their son had developed a heart anomaly; he passed away just 6 days later. This was a huge tragedy for Charla and Rob, one that takes a lot of inner strength and a strong marriage to get through. During those rough times, they made a joint decision to make a change, they needed a change, so they moved out to California. Her husband started a new job and they were finally getting back to a normal life. They decided to start that family we always dreamed about. They had their second son in 2003 and a little girl in 2004; both were very healthy babies. Charla says “Wow, becoming a Mommy certainly changes your body!! I had reached 170lbs and was very depressed and miserable! After seeing a picture of me standing next to my Mom and looking as big as a house, something snapped! I refused to be an out of shape mom and wife.” So Charla wanted to show everyone especially all the new mothers around the world that the over weight MOMMY MOLD could be broken! Charla, not afraid to jump in head first, decided to enter herself in an NPC figure competition to give her a goal to focus on. Now keep in mind this wasn’t years afterwards, Charla Cormier stepped on an NPC stage just nine months after having her daughter, she competed at a weight of 126 pounds and placed 6th out of 12 women that competed, this was the beginning of a new life for Charla. In her own words, “I WAS HOOKED! I was so proud of myself for finally reaching my fitness goal and accomplishing something I thought was impossible; especially after having a C-section! ” Ever since that fateful day when something snapped in Charla to compete in her first fitness competition, she hasn’t stopped, she went to the National Level, she became a certified personal trainer for Anytime Fitness ([email protected]), a fitness model/athlete for All American EFX (www.aaefx.com), She has graced the covers of a few magazine covers, she is one of the developers of the new eating plan called The Cave Man Plan (www.thecavemanplan.com), and on top of all of that she is sponsored by Eric Nolan’s Xtreme Martial Arts and Fitness Center (www.ericnolan.com), but most of all, and quoting from Charla once again, “I AM ONE HAPPY MOMMY.” Charla’s journey is an amazing one, she broke through adversity and not looking for it she found her purpose, as sometimes things happen in life for a reason. She has succeeded in reaching many of her goals because of the support and love of her family, friends, sponsors and her faith in the lord. She goes on to say “I am very fortunate and proud to be where I am today. My main goal though, is to be a good mother, wife and role model for her family. My passion is fitness and teaching others to MAKE A GOAL, NOT AN EXCUSE. I truly believe you can achieve any goal once you set your mind to it. The KEY is You must believe in yourself and put all excuses aside!” “Success is just a reach away , GO FOR IT—BELIEVE IN YOURSELF AND NEVER LOOK BACK– YOU CAN DO IT! ” continues Charla and she leaves us with this message: “Love life and stay fitness focused, Charla.” “I asked Charla if she would ever be open to being a guest celebrity on Dancing with the Stars due to her dancing background, and the answer was an astounding yes, her story is amazing and she is destined for great things in the future.” Stated Louis Velazquez , host of the UCW Radio Show www.thecavemanplan.com www.myspace.com/reimroc www.aaefx.com Charlas Official Blog: www.aaefx.com/cormier/blog
Model/Actress Angell Lee-Ann
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Model and Actress Angel Lee-Ann on the show, she is definitely one that you need to keep your eye on in the very near future. About Angel in Her Words. I believe in living your life now, to the full…i don’t want to get to a age where I’m too old, and looking back on my life with big regrets…and feeling like there is nothing you can now do about it…almost like life’s past you by,.. where you’re maybe in a job that you cant stand and have just accepted it, and carried on day to day….wishing you were somewhere else, living the life you had always wished for. The beginning of this year I was doing just that, I had recently got out of a very unhappy long relationship, which had held me back in fulfilling my dreams I once had before.I was running my own business in home security here in the UK for many years, it had been very successful, and my family still continues to work in this line of business today, but for me, finally being single, I decided to take up acting classes in the evenings after I closed my business for the day.I studied acting in film and TV, I loved this so much and decided this is what i wanted to pursue further, but it had become very difficult juggling both my business which i ran by myself and being able to go out to any potential castings etc…it would be impossible…So I had to put that on hold for a little while. In mid 2008 I went on a girlie holiday to L.A and was approached by a manager/agency there, they then signed me to a semi exclusive contract for at least a year…to join his books…a warning to people that I’ve learned along the way is unfortunately be careful who you sign with, be careful what spill “managers” etc will give you to maybe get you signed up etc. I’ve learnt the hard way, but least i know now…how he promised this and that., how he had investors involved with big budget films they were to be filming end of last yr and i was promised this part and that part in this film they’d be filming and all of that, I learned the hard way because it had wasted a lot of time for me. At that time I was stuck on my end not being able to go out to any other castings in case I was told he needed me to fly out in few weeks time for filming? So I ended the contract this year and took a big decision as my lease for my shop/business was coming up for renewal to either re-sign for a further 5 yrs and stick at the business i was good at “the safe option” or to get out, I chose to “get out” and take the chance, this leaving the security of a guaranteed income. I knew that I couldn’t run my own business and be able to travel or work away if needed…it was a gamble, but one i was willing to take. I signed up with a new manager in USA at World Entertainment Agency in late 2009, so it is all still very new to me, but wow how different this company is to the last I had been signed with. They are extremely professional and I have since had interest from Playboy USA. I had been approached from a music producer who has worked with groups like the Chemical Brothers to name one and he asked me to do vocals to one of his new tracks he had done, I’ve since finished that, and are in the very last stages of the video I’m in being filmed for it…I’m being cast in a UK film for cinema, filming starts in November. I have a photo shoots lined up in Miami at the end of October and many little projects that are all coming together…all very exciting! I’m feeling 2010 is going to be a great year for me, if it carries on the way its going =0}…and then my story will be of a happy one to tell , how not to sit back and let life pass you by, how only a few months back i was stuck in my 9-5 job day in day out same thing…looking out the window dreaming…wishing I was doing something else, wishing my life was some what different, to now all these different opportunities that are now coming my way, and I’m now free to be able to travel and take on any new jobs that are offered to me. “Angel went through a bumpy road but sometimes its better to have that negative stuff out early than to have it come later in her career, I believe that this experience will lead her to achieve greats things in not only her career but in her life, ” said Louis Velazquez host of The UCW Radio Show Websites: www.myspace.com/1angelll
Australian Author Suzanne Leal
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Australian author of “Border Street” Suzanne Leal on the show. Suzanne Leal was born in Brisbane, Australia. After studying French, German and law at the University of Sydney in Australia and the Universität Würzburg in Germany, Suzanne worked as a Sydney-based criminal lawyer before being appointed to the Refugee Review Tribunal, the Migration Review Tribunal and the Administrative Decisions Tribunal (NSW). She is a regular legal commentator on ABC radio 702 with James Valentine. She is also a facilitator and moderator at literary events and festivals. Border Street is Suzanne’s first novel. The story of an unlikely friendship between a young Australian woman, Kate, and her Czech-Jewish neighbors, Border Street was inspired by Suzanne’s friendship with the late Fred and Eva Perger. Border Street was commended in the 2007 Asher Literary Award. Suzanne lives in Sydney with her sons, Alex, Dominic and Xavier. Websites: www.suzanneleal.com
Hustler Model Crystal Rayne
Quick Q & A with Hustler Model Crystal Rayne Let’s start with the basics Crystal, why don’t you tell us where your story starts: Well firstly I was born and raised in Massachusetts, so I am a New England native. To be more specific I was born in Southbridge, MA and actually raised in Brimfield, MA. I grew up playing sports in elementary school all the way up to high school, I played Basketball from the time I was in the first grade and on I was only girl on a boys team all the way up till I hit 8th grade. It was the same with softball, I actually hit 13 homeruns every year in elementary school and tried hard to break 14 but unfortunately that did not happen. So is that where your young sports career ended? Not really, when I hit 9th grade I was the only 9th grader girl to make varsity on track & field and cross-country I was one of the top three runners that brought my team to states!!! Did you grow up in a big family? Yes, I grew up in a big family and was loved very much growing up, I think that’s what pushed me in sports since I was young. Ok now lets move forward to what people are really interested in, when did you begin entertaining? Well yeah you’re right, well that was growing up now down to business, I started entertaining when I was 16 and loved the attention part of it. I have now been featuring for 6 years and modeling for 5 years, I would not change one thing about it. I get to travel to so many states and meet so many people, I am so grateful for that. Can you tell us what some of your highlights have been so far? Hmmmm, let me tell you what I’ve done as I consider them all highlights in my career. I recently posed for “V2 Magazine” 2010, I was featured in “Hustler Magazine” February 2010 Issue, “Hustler Magazine” May 2010 issue, “Got Curves Magazine” 2010, “Xtreme Magazine” January 2010 and April 2010 and now for your magazine LOL!!! I carry many titles including Miss Exotic Virginia 2009, Pole Champion 2009, Hottest Buns 2009, Miss Nude Redhead World 2010, Best Costume 2009, XXX Star/ Jim South productions 2010 etc. I’m going to get personal for a moment as this is just a short Q & A session; can you tell us a little bit about your personal life? Sure, I have two wonderful kids and I would not change them for the world. I love them so much, they are Desiree who is 7 and Ethan who is 22 months I love you both so much!!!! So yes I am still featuring all over the USA doing Vegas style shows, talk shows and as well as radio interviews like with the ones I’ve done for Striptaculous.com, there are 3 interviews of mine there which can be listened to. Crystal, I know our time is short so I want to thank you for the short interview, and I want to wish you the best of luck in your career, we look forward to having you as a guest on the UCW Radio Show. Thank you too, I look forward to coming on the UCW Radio Show soon, until then I want to send a big MUAH out to my fans!!! To learn more about Crystal Rayne go to www.crystalrayne.com
Photographer Shawn Lee
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Photographer Shawn Lee on the show. Shawn Lee is the Owner and Lead Photographer at SHAWN LEE Studios, Photography editor at The Luxe Code Magazine, Co-Owner & Co-Founder of That’s Hot Media, The Official Photographer of “Jazz on the Grass”, one of the largest jazz festivals in Southeastern Michigan and The Official Photographer of the William Malcolm “Man of Style” Contest which gives prizes in excess of twenty five thousand dollars. Looking at Shawn’s photography, one first notices a depth about his work. Driven by a passion for capturing the moment, Shawn’s work has a very lively and engaging feel to it. Shawn’s eye in photography was developed as a Graphic Designer, which made the creative transition to photography very smooth. He has since honed his technical skills to include several professional certifications and worldwide travels. Shawn is a hard working photographer who treats his client’s body of work as though it were his own. Amongst being a graphic artist and a professional photographer, Shawn is a seasoned instructor and creative project director. He is extremely passionate about community, which is why he is Co-Director and Advisor to a program called “The Suit Project”, a ten week mentorship based program for young men that are 18-22 years of age. Shawn is also rolling out in September of 2009 his own community and school based venture called “Picture This”, a program where he inspires young people to consider Art & Creativity through the eyes of the Photographic lens in motivational seminars and rallies. You’ll often hear Shawn say “RUN THAT!”, which is his energetic term for making life happen and he approaches photography very much the same way. Shawn’s wealth of passion, creative background, and commitment to service show not only in his work, but in his professionalism on the job and his investment in community; able to perform at a very high level, he is ready to create imagery that can take you to an entirely new level. Websites: www.shawnleestudios.com
Pro Mod Drag Racer Dina Parise
Andrew and Dina Parise are a Husband and Wife Pro Mod Drag Racing Team.When the Helmets go on the wedding bands come off! With this team, Rivalry starts at home! http://pariseracing.com/
Actress/Author Patty McCall
PATTY McCall – Founder/Producer/Author / Actress she is the author of the book “Unmasking The Pain Within” which is based on her true story. Shortly after she formed a Non-Profit Organization founded in Oklahoma called “P.A.I.N. Foundation” against Domestic Violence. Patty received support in Oklahoma, Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida, Virginia and California. She promoted the book through a Book Signing Tour, becoming affiliated with Services for Domestic Violence/Shelters. Patty made guest appearances on various talk shows and radio stations . She is producing and writing the script for the the feature “Unmasking The Pain Within ,” which is in pre-production .Twice a year Patty is honored to present the “PAIN FOUNDATION AWARD” for the Best Domestic Violence Awareness Short Film , at the Bare Bones Film Festival in Oklahoma. She also produced for Emperor Frederick Von Seidl, a comedy/horror feature film called “West Ghost Studios”.She has produced ten short films . Most recent ,shot in Los Angeles, is the short “UNSEEN HANDS”, directed by Don Johns.There are plans to develop this project as well . This event will introduce upcoming projects and events.
Celebrity Booking Agent Mike Esterman
Mike Esterman is the CEO of celebrity booking agency Esterman Entertainment, based in Maryland, which specializes in appearance placements of music artists, TV and film celebrities, and magazine models at clubs, on TV show shows, product endorsements, and other various events. The entertainment industry bug first hit Mike at age 16 when he started as a dancer on Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” by submitting a tape from local Maryland dance show named “Shakedown,” in which he won a local club dance contest in order to show off his moves to the TV viewers. More dancing on various shows followed: “Dance Party USA” in Philadelphia, “Shakedown” in Baltimore, Md., “The Grind” in Los Angeles with Nia Peoples as the host and “Party Machine.” Mike Esterman has been rubbing elbows with names like Pamela Anderson, Garth Brooks, Jessica Simpson, Don King, Tiffany Amber Theisen, Paris Hilton, Carmen Electra, Tara Reid, and so many others. He has also worked on events and after parties for music artists like, Alicia Keys, Usher, Nelly, Beyonce, Fabolous, P. Diddy, Vince Neil, LL Cool J, Wyclef, Ashanti, Ja Rule, and many others. These appearances range from autograph signings, hosting contests or promoting their shows or movies to the public. There are approximately twelve various types of locations ready to take advantage of these special appearances. Some are all age, entertainment establishments, such as, Casinos, Colleges, speaking engagements and nightclubs plus other creative places are also used to create the perfect platform, depending on the celebrity guest. All appearances and performances accompany a fee and all accommodations are provided. Presently, Mike also hosts a celebrity segment on the CW TV Channel called, “Late Nite” with a Magazine-style format featuring, behind-the-scenes footage of celebrity guests when they are in the DC area along with area nightclub hot spots plus so much more to intrigue viewers and give upcoming spokesmodels a chance for added exposure. In addition to the TV projects in production, Mike acts as an project liaison for “Triple Platinum Entertainment”, a fairly new company based in Las Vegas. It’s founders who are widely recognized within the entertainment industry, feel that we can be successful in locating funding for major films ready for finization along with A-List actors already attached. Mike Esterman seeks to bring the dazzle of Hollywood a little closer to many all over the world with offer requests coming in for client’s everyday! “Mike is one of the good guys in the celebrity booking arena, leading the path with honesty and relationship building, helping his clients, providing solid talent for venues and giving the public the celebrities that they crave. So venue owners and bookers that are looking to align with someone of the highest integrity then you need not look further than Mike Esterman.” stated Louis Velazquez, Host of UCW Radio Websites: www.esterman.com , it is the user friendly way to book celebrities for all of your events worldwide. www.myspace.com/mikeesterman
International DJ Sensation – DJ Neekola
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have International Sensation DJ Neekola on the Show. Born in New York and educated in Virginia, Neekola currently resides in Washington DC where she works as a full time international DJ. Inspired by her parents musical talents, Neekola has been involved in music since childhood. The early years were spent in rock bands as a lead singer, keyboard player and songwriter. However, upon moving to Germany in 1997, Neekola was introduced to her soulmate, electronic dance music. She spent so much of her time dancing in the nightclubs within Europe. It was during this time she was inspired to pursue music production. After having a bit of trouble, she was advised by her mentors in the industry that she should first learn to DJ, and then her production skills would come naturally soon after. So she headed on out to NYC’s Scratch Academy, learned the basic skills, acquired her own turntable setup, and then her life changed forever….. “DJing has given me the ability to share my passion with people all over the world, whether we speak the same language or not, and it has helped me to inspire others as music has inspired me throughout my life” -Neekola. Neekola is not only one of Washington DC’s most recognizable names in the club scene, but she is now capturing the attention of audiences by performing worldwide in Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and Peru. In the United States, she has played all over the East Coast to include Miami for the Winter Music Conference, New York City, Virginia Beach and Baltimore Maryland. She has performed alongside some of her favorite artists such as Robbie Riviera, BT, Quivver, Menno De Jong, Serge Devant, DJ Rap and Steve Smooth just to name a few. She also works hard to give back to the community and donates a lot of her own time to help raise funds and awareness for charity, and is an advocate for living a healthy lifestyle. “Music is such a powerful tool. The best way to use this power is to promote good messages, such as having fun, dancing, and positive attitude with the best beats and lyrics I can find as well as create myself. This positivity, enthusiasm, and good spirit comes from within and is recognized by those on the dance floor, and in turn I am rewarded by happy faces, pumping fists and dancing feet.” -Neekola. Neekola is currently working very hard on releasing her first original electronic album, “All of You”, dedicated to all of the people in her life that have inspired and helped her become the person, and the artist she is today. “This is one of those people that you know will rise to the top due to not only their abilities but how they carry themselves, her humbleness and appreciation beyond her exceptional skill is what separates her from the rest,” said Louis Velazquez, UCW Radio Show Host Websites www.djneekola.com www.myspace.com/neekoladj
The Hip Event – Maria Cucciniello
Maria Cucciniello is founder and CEO of The Hip Event, a full-service public relations, event planning, and lifestyle marketing agency specializing in fashion and beauty; hospitality, dining, and nightlife; entertainment and media. The Hip Event creates market driven integrated marketing campaigns that blend publicity promotions and product placement strategies to target markets in both traditional and non-traditional ways through grassroots efforts, crafting strategic partnerships, aligning clients with celebrities and facilitating community relations. Maria graduated top of her class earning a degree in Fashion Marketing from The Art Institute of Philadelphia in 1999, where her love of all things fashion and the fast-paced world of PR were fueled by several internships including Philadelphia Style Magazine, Strawbridge’s and Neiman Marcus. During this time Maria was also actively involved as a junior member of The Fashion Group International, INC. After graduation, Maria began work as the Assistant to the Director of Special Events and Public Relations at Strawbridge’s before pursuing a career as a freelance public relations professional. She quickly found her niche in Philadelphia, gaining a reputation as go-to girl for nightclub promotions and publicity. During this time, she honed her skills in special events management and planning spearheading fashion show productions, product launches, restaurant and nightclub openings as well as revitalizing established venues. Maria successfully executed countless grassroots marketing campaigns gaining media exposure for an array of clients. Soon thereafter, Maria accepted a position at Hugo Boss, Fashion Works Incorporated as the PR and Marketing Manager overseeing seven locations in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania where she concentrated on the fashion industry. Prior to founding The Hip Event, Maria served as the Public Relations Manager for Neiman Marcus in Short Hills for more than four years. Under her direction, the store engaged in countless non-profit, community and charitable organizations such as The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, North Jersey Affiliate and The New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Maria has worked with key editors and producers in top level media and was features on “Extra” on two different occasions for her expertise in beauty, fashion, and jewelry, as well as her keen sense of style. Other media outlets include, TLC’s “What Not To Wear”, The Wall Street Journal, and People EN ESPANOL. More About The Hip Event The Hip Event is a full-service public relations and lifestyle marketing business located in beautiful Montclair, New Jersey. Recognized for outstanding service and a true partnership approach with every engagement, the Hip Event’s client focused public relations services include media relations and industry specific media outreach; press release composition and distribution; marketing campaign design and outreach; Web site design and development; special event planning and sponsorship outreach. Our goal is to set each and every client above the rest, and in the process help them grow. How can we help you grow? Contact us today. Located in Montclair, New Jersey, The Hip Event is a full service boutique agency specializing in public relations, lifestyle marketing and special events catering to upscale industry clients with in the fashion and beauty; hospitality, dining and nightlife; as well as the entertainment and media industries. The Hip Event connects brands with their desired media for optimal exposure by mixing our own creative style with traditional public relations (PR). Our dedicated team focuses on putting nationwide clients in front of key editors and producers from top media outlets to reach target audiences. Our customized marketing campaigns and brand development programs deliver strategic messages to the audiences that matter most. We create individualized programs that play an integral role in marketing to drive sales through lasting customer relationships. The Hip Event creates integrated marketing campaigns that blend publicity, promotions and product placement strategies to target markets in both traditional and non-traditional ways through grassroots efforts, crafting strategic partnership, aligning clients with celebrities and facilitating community relations. Our unique approach can incorporate community outreach programs aligning clients with the communities they serve in-turn strengthening sales, image, and customer loyalty generating a positive word of mouth. From concept to completion, The Hip Event handles all aspects of event management including production and publicity in order to meet your event goals. Our services incorporate but are not limited to defining objectives, selecting venues, pre-production, vendor relations, staffing requirements and permits. After successfully orchestrating countless fashion show productions, product launches as well as non-profit, community and charity events, we pride ourselves on offering every client the personal attention only a boutique firm can provide. We invite you to talk to your clients, visit our office in Montclair, New Jersey, or contact us today. Websites: www.thehipevent.com
Director Francis Williams
Francis Williams is a visionary. A natural born artist, Williams has been drawing and creating amazing illustrations since childhood. He is fascinated by the science fiction and fantasy genre – with an instinct for subverting reality through image. Francis holds a BA (Hons.) in Digital and Lens Media from the University of Hertfordshire where he graduated in 2006. He also serves as a director for privately held independent production studio, Wrong World Films — also based in his hometown in Hertfordshire. Wrong World Films produces film and television content for broadcast and corporate media – however – it was Francis’ independently made music video “5 Minutes Too Fast” (2006) – which got the attention of media executives, culminating in talks and proposals at AEC. Company Statement Asia Eumero Capital EU has recently signed prolific writing team Phil & Francis Williams to UK publishing imprint Original Myth Classics. The brothers’ talents have been tracked since summer 2007 when they submitted various treatments for independent motion pictures that could be developed from character centric plots. Two years on, AEC is proud to welcome the writing team to the Original Myth Classics label – a development and entertainment publishing house were they will be given the creative freedom essential to realize the commercial potential of their films and productions. Phil & Francis Williams will join a dedicated and talented team of veteran executives from OM Classics — which includes film and television producers from associated labels and affiliate film studios in the United Kingdom and North America. Working with the team will be multi-hyphenate producer – Saint Vernae – who will administer and executive produce the first Williams Bros film “Revenge of the Lout”. Websites: www.wrongworldfilms.com www.originalmyth.com
TV/Film Producer and True Inspiration David Lyons
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have TV/Film Producer David Lyons on the Show. David Lyons is one of the most inspirational stories that we had the honor of telling on the UCW Radio Show, his outlook on life is amazing, despite him having a daily battle with MS he still forges forward with his desire to live and accomplish great thing sin life. Although he has inspired many his main goal is to show his three children the path to true fulfillment in their lives and to continue reaching for the moon despite adversity. The David Lyons story is one that we urge our listeners to not only listen to but to learn from it. Lyons , despite having a disease that could literally diasble a person, he made a choice to compete as a bodybuilder without the use of MS drugs. Its an amazing journey that only David Lyons can tell. More About David Lyons: Since 2002 LYONS Entertainment has been creating, developing and producing original programming for television and film. LYONS Entertainment President and Executive Producer, David Lyons has won over 25 international awards and has partnered with some of entertainment’s top executives and producers. In addition to creating and producing its own original properties, LYONS Entertainment collaborates with other talented creators and producers to bring their television show or film concept to market. LYONS Entertainment credits include syndicated television series Hog Heaven, currently in its fourth season, airing on Untamed Sports TV (www.untamedsportstv.com); Street Games and Rack which have been green lit by FOX Sports Network; and Creepers which has won 30 international awards and was screened at the Cannes Short Film Festival in Cannes, France. Creepers is currently under contract for worldwide distribution through Engine 15 Media Group. “David Lyons is a true inspiration, his story is amazing, his journey is worthy of accolades, if this doesn’t teach us that we can achieve anything in life despite the adversities in front of us then nothing will, I was honored to be able to conduct his interview,” said Louis Velazquez, Host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.theultimatebodytvshow.com www.lyonsentertainment.net www.supercreepers.com www.themsbodybuildingchallenge.com
Director Byron Conrad Erwin
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the director of the new theatrical release “Lynch Mob” Byron Erwin on the show. Byron Erwin began his film career as a teenager, writing and shooting films in super eight millimeter. He completed his first feature length production while studying film at Virginia Commonwealth University. During film school he worked as a negative cutter for National Geographic Television, National Geographic Specials, ABC/KANE Productions, Discovery Channel and many independent and feature filmmakers. He has written and directed short films, and one feature before becoming the senior director at a television commercial production facility. He is most proud of my animated short film “In those Days…” which took seven years to produce since every frame was hand drawn with no computer assistance. Erwin is also an accomplished musician and artist and score most of his projects. The feature horror film LYNCH MOB, which Erwin directed, opens Sept 18th, 2009 in select Carmike Theaters theatres. Websites: www.lynchmobmovie.com http://www.byronerwin.com/ http://www.myspace.com/byronerwin
Pro Bodybuilder and True Inspiration Jack London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Pro Bodybuilder Jack London on the Show. It all Started when Jack was 12 yeas old. he was going into the 7thgrade and was extremely overweight. He was at the jersey shore and went to his dad and asked him to buy him a gym membership- According to Jack London he was was ready to be an Animal!!! He was lucky and trained at a place called Atilis Gym, little did young Jack know, that he was training with the likes of Joe Meeko and Jeff king and Ron Tueful. These were the granddaddies of bodybuilding at the time. As time went on, he grew…and grew, and grew…until he was bench pressing 400lbs at age 15…he was playing both offense and defense in football and was pretty much all world!! Jack’s self esteem had grown incredible since then, in the beginning he was just another fat kid, trying to get a girlfriend. Then his parents told me him that he was going to an exclusive high school called the William Penn Charter school- there He grew to excel in academics as well as athletics. Jack’s football career started to look like a reality. He was actually running a 4.8 40 yard dash and was weighing 280lbs as a senior. he was also, lifting heavy…800 squat/600 bench…all in high school!!!! But during his senior year in High School tragedy struck and he blew out his shoulder, According to physicians at the time he was getting too strong for his own good and when Jack would hit people he actually was tearing his own joints up. he dislocated his right shoulder 6 times and his left 4 times, For Jack his dreams of Professional Football came to an abrupt end. Shortly after that he was then approached by Lincoln Gottschalk who at the time was the Power lifting coach at Temple University and who at the time were the National Champions….NCAA. He went on to be not only a Teen and Collegiate National champion, but also NCAA All American 3 years in a row. At some point, Jack reached the highest point in power lifting, hitting an unrecorded 1010 lbs in the squat and 662 bench (with no shirt). He got bored, as Jack is a mover and shaker , so he decided to drop weight. In one year he went from 340lbs to 190lbs…and all of a sudden, He found a new calling as he began to look like a bodybuilder with a small waist and broad shoulders. Jack recalled this gorgeous girl telling him “you know, you should be a bodybuilder, you look like those guys in the magazines” and so, well thats all that Jack needed to hear and he was off to the races. He competed in the Mr. Northeast Philadelphia, and took it all the way to the World Championships, winning bronze in that as well as winning titles like the Mr. North America, Mr. East Coast and Mr. International…..SO the obvious next step is a trip to California in 1992: He went to California, for a week vacation, and never returned. He met Ed Connors who, at the time, was one of the three owners of Gold’s gym enterprises, he told me that I had what it took, we struck a deal- and off he went….Jack spent the next three years competing and traveling- living the dream!!!! Jack retired in 1998 when he got married, but then reemerged in 2004, requalifying and going all the way to the Night of Champions in NYC in 2006. Jack London’s story is so inspirational that you need to hear it from the horses mouth to understand his journey and continued journey. Websites : Jack London | Facebook
Model/Actress Veronika London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have model/actress Veronika London on the show. Striking in raven black hair, Veronika London is quickly establishing her name in Hollywood North aka Canada. At 22, London’s raw talent, assets and ambition have catapulted her to the fast-track. Coming off a recent television appearance on the provocative HBO series Lingerie, London rode the “exposure” to land features in Maxim and UMM magazines. She is set to appear in the second season of the SHOWTIME’s Body Language series after wrapping the “Mvnerva” shoot, where she plays a gorgeous and unlikely assassin. The starlet is also scheduled to play the lead in the upcoming independent feature film, How to cook like a Porn star. These films compliment her seventh music video appearance in as many months. Finally, a busy year culminates in London’s portrayal of the heroine in Paul Robert’s Burning Amber. Promising to be an instant hit, the Jeremy Shell produced project is receiving noteworthy attention from industry insiders and may be London’s first significant hit. Mexican “Femme Fatale” Veronika uses her theatre training, martial arts background and raw sensuality to sell herself as product model for the planet’s first bamboo designer label “JUZD”. She is known as the edgy trendsetter “Glam Rock Babe” for Queen West Magazine where she reports the hottest trends to hit the street. Catch her next possibly hosting, doing charity work, or making an appearance in Toronto in this October’s “Las Vegas Fashion Show” hosted by Playful Chick Parties to support the fight against breast cancer. Websites: www.veronikalondon.com http://www.myspace.com/veronika.london
Starlink Productions Katrina Berg Sussmeier
StarLink Productions: Give us your budget and desired genre(s) and we will get you a custom list of talent; names you can afford and the names you’d like to hear. If someone you were really hoping to see isn’t on that list, ask, and we’ll do a specific fee check. Once you’ve made up a wish list from your custom list, we will call and get talents’ availabilities and do fee negotiations. StarLink does every kind of event from autograph/ meet and greets to major concerts and festivals. We have event planning guides and corporate underwriting help free on our website. We handle everything from offers and negotiations right to packing up the acts and getting them back on the road after your show. There is nothing we haven’t done to make things easy and happy for everyone, up to and including last minute laundry emergencies for talent! Think of a concert as something akin to a wedding, but with 30 or more brides and 10 times more details. We handle everything! Katrina Berg Sussmeier has been producing concerts since 1991, and worked with wonderful and impressive people such as Tony Bennett, James Earl Jones, Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Gregory Hines, Beverly Sills and countless others, and such wonderful events as the United Negro College Fund, right down to hospital fundraisers and fantasy figure conventions. We are extremely proud of the fundraising work we’ve done. Katrina calls herself a “professional middle child” in that she strives to make everyone happy— the talent buyer and the talent and staff as well. 99% of the time this lofty goal is accomplished! Tour managers repeatedly tell her dates with StarLink are “cakewalks” or likewise glitch free and happy. Just in May of 2009 a stage manager told her it was a privilege to work with someone who actually cared how the show went! Similarly, clients who have worked with StarLink before will always come back and we realize repeat business is where it’s at for us! “Your Link To The Stars” Websites: http://www.starlinkproductions.com
Martial Artist/Fighting Stunts Coordinator Grandmaster Yi
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have world renowned martial arts grandmaster, Grandmaster Yi on the show. Grandmaster Wonik Yi is the founder of the World Tukong Moosul Federation and holds a 9th degree black belt, the highest designation in the Martial Arts. Master Yi also holds a doctorate degree in Education. Master Yi has devoted his entire life to the study of the Martial Arts, and he has brought his generations of knowledge to Austin, Texas in order pass that knowledge on in the USA. Grandmaster Yi spent his formative years learning Buddhism and the Martial Arts at the Dae Yeon Sa Temple in South Korea. He then went into the Korean Special Forces. In 1979, he competed in the World Martial Arts tournament and became World Champion. At this point, the Korean goverment asked him to develop a more modern, powerful, and effective fighting art. Because this style is so technically efficient the military was able to change from their present style (Tae Kwon Do) of Martial Arts to Master Yi’s style-“Tukong Moosul.” There are now over 300,000 soldiers training each year in Tukong Martial Arts. While Grandmaster Wonik Yi entered the Dae Yeon Sa Temple at the age of five in 1964, his roots to the temple can be traced back many generations. Master Kiwan Yi is the great grandfather of Grandmaster Wonik Yi. He was the teacher of Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa before he went into the temple. Master Kiwan Yi also taught his son Master Jayoung Yi who was the grandfather of Grandmaster Wonik Yi. Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa and Master Jayoung Yi were friends. When Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa had gone to the temple, Master Jayoung Yi asked him to take Grandmaster Wonik Yi into the temple for training. Master Kiwan Yi won the World Judo Championship in Japan when Korea was occupied by Japan. He was one of the greatest Judo masters at that time. He was also the last Shogun for the Korean Emperor. He later became the Korean State Governor and continued to teach Judo to Koreans. Grandmaster Yi’s grandfather, Jayoung Yi, was also a Judo Master who opened the first Yun Moo Kwan Judo School in Korea. He was also Mayor of Young Wol City in Korea. This is the heritage of Grandmaster Wonik Yi and it explains where his abilities and talents came from, as well as how tradition is carried on from one generation to the next generation. The origin of the Dae Yeon Sa Temple can be traced to AD 1200 years. The first original Temple was Dae Yeon Am, meaning “Great Achievement Place”. It was located in North Korea, and founded by Master Ji Suk along with two other masters. During this time the masters practiced Buddhism without the Martial Arts. It was only after Master Song Jae and Master Bup Kwang came to the temple that the practice of Martial Arts began around AD 1269. Several hundred years later, the temple moved to South Korea (1692) and the name changed from Dae Yeon Am to Dae Yeon Sa (“Great Achievement Temple”). At that time, three masters from China joined and continued to develop the Martial Arts. That is why the origin of the Tukong Moosul system is both a hard and soft style, a blending of Chinese and Korean techniques. In 1965, Grandmaster Wonik Yi went to the temple and began training in Buddhism and the Martial Arts. In Korea there are two types of Buddhist temples. One is similar to a church of missionary work and is open to all people. The other is solely for individuals who wish to seek self-enlightment. These temples are ones of sanctuary and privacy, and are not open for public visitation. A few of the temples in Korea choose the later type. The Dae Yeon Sa Temple is a very traditional temple that teaches Buddhism and Martial Arts. This is the tradition that is taught to the students of Tukong Moosul today. Eun Kwang Bup Sa was born in 1895 and passed away in 1996 at the age of 101 years. He was headmaster of Dae Yeon Sa Temple from 1955 until his passing. Eun Kwang Bup Sa was Master Yi’s Grandmaster and greatest mentor influencing, molding, and guiding Master Yi for the rest of his life. Eun Kwang Bup Sa taught “Jeong Shin Il Do, Ha Sa Bul Sung”. Translated, this means that when one summons one’s mind, heart (body), and spirit in one direction together, nothing is impossible and you can accomplish anything that you desire. Grandmaster Wonik Yi’s goal, in honor of headmaster Eun Kwang Bup Sa, is to offer and pass forward to his students all of the knowledge, wisdom and philosophy that he has acquired through his years of training. The students that are willing to listen and work hard will find direction in their life; they will become humble beings, with a great understanding of self-accomplishment, self-esteem, and an understanding of the importance of life. HISTORY Grandmaster Wonik Yi entered Dae-Yeon temple at the age of five in 1964. He lived at the temple until the age of nineteen and trained in traditional Moosul (Martial Arts) until he joined the South Korean Special Forces to do his duty for his country. While he was in the special forces, his commander, General Chang, and the Korean Government noticed his prominence in Martial Arts and asked him to devise a more modern, powerful, and effective fighting martial arts for the South Korea Special Forces and the military version of Tukong Martial Arts was born in February of 1978. In the beginning, Tukong Moosul was called Tukjun Moosul. In 1980, Korean Military 26th division became Tukong Division and most other divisions started creating the Tukong Battalion. There are now over a few hundred thousand South Korean military and reserve soldiers training each year in the military version of Tukong Martial Arts. Grandmaster Wonik Yi came to America
Acclaimed Writer and Director Sheldon Lettich
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_SheldonLettich_04292021.mp3 Sheldon Lettich was born in New York City, but moved to California at a young age and grew up in the Los Angeles area. After graduation from high school he spent nearly four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a radio operator in South Vietnam with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, and later with the elite 1st Force Reconnaissance Company based at Camp Pendleton, California. He worked his way through college as a professional photographer, and attended at the American Film Institute’s Center for Advanced Film Studies as a Cinematography Fellow. Although his initial career goal was to become a director of photography, at the AFI his interests branched out to encompass writing and directing, which became the two fields where he found eventual success in the entertainment business. Based partly upon his experiences in Vietnam, he co-authored the renowned play, “Tracers,” with a group of Vietnam Vets who were also aspiring actors. First performed on July 4th, 1980 at the Odyssey Theater in Los Angeles, the play then traveled to Joseph Papp’s Public Theater in New York City, the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago (directed by Gary Sinise), the Royal Court Theater in London, and numerous venues worldwide. It received both Drama Desk Awards and L.A. Drama Critics Awards, and is still being performed throughout the world. Around the same time, Lettich was writing numerous spec screenplays. One of these, co-written with Josh Becker, subsequently became the cult classic, Thou Shalt Not Kill… Except (1985), which starred Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi. Eventually his screenplays began attracting the attention of producers in Hollywood. He co-authored the Cold War drama, Russkies (1987), which was the first starring role for a young Joaquin Phoenix. Around the same time he wrote the screenplay for the now-classic martial arts film, Bloodsport (1988), which launched the career of Jean-Claude Van Damme. One of his Vietnam-based screenplays caught the eye of Sylvester Stallone, which resulted in an overall deal with Stallone’s White Eagle Productions, and led to him co-writing Rambo III (1988) with Stallone. The success of Bloodsport not only turned Jean-Claude Van Damme into an international action star, but it also forged a long and ongoing friendship with the man who wrote it. Van Damme helped to launch Lettich’s directing career with the film, Lionheart (1990) , which became Van Damme’s first movie to be released theatrically by a major U.S. studio. This was followed by Double Impact (1991), which was filmed in Hong Kong, with Lettich directing Van Damme in a challenging double role as twin brothers seeking revenge for their parents’ murder. Lettich next discovered Mark Dacascos, who made his starring debut in Only the Strong (1993), a film that introduced the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira to international audiences. He also directed Dolph Lundgren in The Last Patrol (2000), and Daniel Bernhardt in Perfect Target (1997). Continuing his long association with Van Damme, Lettich was a writer and a producer on the historical French Foreign Legion film, Legionnaire (1998), starring Van Damme and shot on location in Morocco. And he directed The Order (2001), an action-thriller starring Van Damme and Charlton Heston, which was filmed on locations in Israel and Bulgaria. His most recent directorial effort, which he also co-wrote, is The Hard Corps (2006), an urban action-romance. Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Vivica A. Fox, the film was shot on locations around Vancouver, Canada, and on sound stages in Romania, and was financed and released worldwide by Sony Pictures Entertainment. His latest movie is Max (2015), which he co-wrote with his long-time friend, Boaz Yakin. The movie was directed by Boaz and produced by MGM. It was released nationwide in the USA by Warner Brothers on June 26th, 2015, and by the end of the summer had grossed $43 million. The novelization sold over 100,000 copies. A sequel has been completed. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0504802?ref_=nmbio_mbio http://www.sheldonlettich.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SheldonLettichOfficial/
Former World Martial Arts Champion and Actress Christine Bannon-Rodrigues
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_christinebannonrodrigues_interviewucw.mp3 When Christine Bannon-Rodrigues first bowed in she was 13 years old. At the time the Rhode Island teenager never realized that she would one-day reign supreme as one of the super stars in the world of martial arts. Christine studied Kenpo and Wu shu, earning her black belt at age 17. She quickly became the person to beat in fighting, forms and weapons. A formidable competitor Christine was a triple threat wherever she went. Her skill as a fighter was proven time and time again, and in forms and weapons Christine was unstoppable. In 1991 Christine astounded the martial arts world by becoming a Triple Crown winner at the WAKO World Championships in England. “I won three gold medals in forms, fighting and weapons,” Christine recalled. “Everyone thought it was a freak occurrence and that I was just lucky. That got me worked up so I decided to prove my critics wrong, so in 1993 I did it again.” After winning her second Triple Crown she turned her talents and efforts into becoming a TV and movie star. Martial arts legend and action choreographer Pat Johnson hired Christine to double the star in “The Next Karate Kid.” This led to roles in Mortal Kombat, WMAC Masters where she starred as “Lady Lightning and she stunt doubled Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl) in “Batman and Robin.”Christine has also been featured on the cover of every major martial arts magazine in the world and she has written and starred in more than seven instruction videotapes. She is also the darling of the trading card set, being featured in the 1992 John Paul Mitchell National Karate Team Premier edition, Karate Kards, Sport Karate Champions, Martial Arts Masters Trading Cards, Premier Edition and the International Card Collection of Athletes medallion collection. With an eye on the future, Christine says that the Black Belt Registry will be of great benefit to all martial artists, “The access it gives us (martial artists) to everything from training tapes to gear and so much more is amazing,” she says. “One of the things I use it for is finding authentic Chinese weapons. The Internet and the Black Belt Registry is going to take martial arts to its next level.” Christine has graced the cover of almost every major martial arts magazine in the world, her relentless pursuit of working with the youth of martial arts. “Christine is one of the true gems of the world of Martial Arts, her and her husband Don have contributed so much over the decades and continue to do so.” Louis Velazquez
Former World Kickboxing Champion, Actress and Stuntwoman Kathy Long
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-25-PowerHour_KathyLong_03312021.mp3 Although retired from the ring for several years now, Kathy Long is still one of the most recognized woman in kickboxing today! She is still active in the sport from doing special appearances and giving seminars to serving as an event official. She’s also been in several movies as well. During her career she won 5 World Kickboxing Titles. Kathy began her studies in the martial arts with Aikido and has also studied in arts such as Shorin Ryu Karate & Kung Fu. She currently holds 4 different Black Belts in 4 different styles (Kung Fu San Soo, Aikido, Kung Fu and Shorinryu Karate) including a Masters Rank in Kung Fu San Soo. She is an expert in handling firearms, knives, swords and all other weaponry. As a Professional Kickboxer Kathy has been known as as a well conditioned and hardened fighter. She was a very successful kickboxer winning a total of 5 World Championships and they include: 2, KICK World Titles1, WKA World Title1, ISKA World Title1, WMAC World Title where she pummeled Japanese fighter Kyoko Kamikaze in Las Vegas, breaking her ribs and bruising her kidneys as Kathy walked away with (at the time) the highest purse ever paid to a Female Kickboxer of $20,000. Her ring career included wins over Ramona Gatto,Bonnie Canino, Japanese star Kyoko “Kamikaze” Miyazaki, French champion Dani Rocard, Canadian champion Nora Daigle and two defeats over Denise Taylor. Her only loss as a professional kickboxer (18-1-1/5) came in a Muay Thai match with Britain’s Lisa Howarth at Pickett’s Lock near London in February 1990. There was to have been a rematch later that year and Kathy trained in the Thai style with that in mind. But then Lisa got badly cut in a loss to French savate champion Nancy Joseph, and had to cancel. A two time Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee (Woman of the Year 1991 & Full Contact Fighter of the Year 1992), she retired from kickboxing in the mid 1990s choosing to concentrate on her film career and other interests. She has appeared on more than 35 martial arts magazines covers in the United States, Europe and Asia. Her work in the movie industry includes stunt work and fight choreography: She was Michelle Pfeiffer’s stunt double in “Batman Returns” (1992) and fight choreographer for the “Death Becomes Her” (1992). She has appeared on several television shows, including “Walker, Texas Ranger” with Chuck Norris. She has written several monthly columns, titled “Long Shots” for Black Belt Magazine and has also appeared in movies such as Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997), Under the Gun (1995), The Stranger (1995) Natural Born Killers (1994), Knights (1993) and Rage and Honor (1992). However, Kathy has a long list of other accomplishments as well. She has appeared on numerous television shows and in publications ranging from People magazine to a full-color layout in the National Enquirer. She is also an accomplished musician who plays proficiently musical instruments such as the Harp, Violin and Guitar. She also wrote a book entitled “No! No! No!: A Woman’s Guide to Personal Defense and Street Safety “( Paperback / Berkley Publishing Group / October 1993) along with Kickboxing Fitness Videos such as, “Kickboxing for Fun & Fitness” & “Championship Kickboxing with Kathy Long – “Round 1” Kathy is also a model and spokesperson for Century Martial Arts Equipment.
Martial Artist, Former WWE Wrestler & Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller
Former WCW & WWE star, Martial Artist and Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller is beyond a wrestler, he is first and foremost a true martial artist. He has secured a recurring role on the new MacGyver TV series, has other film projects in motion and is launching his professional point fight league. Also on the show is actor and martial artist Vincent Cecere, he has a number of projects in the works that can’t be mentioned yet but they are sure to be awesome films. He does a lot of giving back that we hope to touch on next week. Miller made his World Championship Wrestling (WCW) debut when he saved Glacier from a two-on-one attack by Wrath and Mortis at the 1997 Slamboree pay-per-view. Initially thought as just a fan who had jumped the railing, the WCW commentators then realized that this was no ordinary man and he was in fact the three-time karate champion Ernest Miller. Glacier and Ernest Miller quickly became tag team partners in their feud with Mortis and Wrath. After Glacier turned on Miller, Ernest left him and became a villain with Sonny Onoo as his manager. It was during this time that Miller’s popularity heightened. As a villain, Miller adopted an arrogant, Muhammad Ali-like trash-talking personality, calling himself “The Greatest” and gloating that he could beat anybody within two minutes, which he often did using his signature kicks. It was also around this time that Ernest began wearing ruby slippers in the ring and dancing in a James Brown-esque fashion to celebrate his victories. He would claim on Nitro that he knew the actual James Brown, leading to a pay-per-view “dance-off” between Miller and Brown, who had been brought in specially. Miller even went as far promoting his own instructional, karate home video with a pseudo infomercial. This served as a comedic parody to Billy Blanks’ Tae Bo exercise videos which were quite popular at the time. Miller and Onoo also did comedy duo routines similar to Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan’s characters from the film Rush Hour. Miller then began a minor feud with Kaz Hayashi, as Onoo has been previously Hayashi’s manager and had left him to manage Miller. Ernest won several matches over Hayashi with Onoo’s help, and also enlisted Perry Saturn as his ally. However, Saturn suffered many losses against inferior opponents due to Miller’s botched interference, so the two faced off at Starrcade, where Saturn won. Miller continued coming out and challenging the fans, the wrestlers, and anyone else to try and take him out, feuding with Scott Norton. For a time, he started coming out with the snow machine and music of Glacier, which Onoo had “purchased”, but it was short-lived, and he soon returned to his James Brown music. In March 1999, Miller and Onoo attacked fellow martial artist Jerry Flynn, with Ernest cutting off Flynn’s ponytail as a sign of disrespect. They all faced off in Uncensored in a handicap match, but Flyinn defeated them both. Miller bounced back after some time, getting a win over Scott Norton after hitting him with a crowbar. He and Norton were scheduled to wrestle in The Great American Bash, but Norton was pulled out for health problems and replaced with Horace Hogan, who Miller defeated after kicking him with a steel-tipped red dancing shoe. In June 1999, Miller had a dancing contest with Disco Inferno, who he attacked in jealously over the fans’s attention. They fought in Bash at the Beach in a “dance match” with the stipulation that the loser could not dance anymore (though this stipulation was removed at Bash at the Beach), with Miller winning thanks to Onoo. The Cat’s next opponent would be Buff Bagwell, who became famous by doing an impersonation of Miller with a bald cap and black face paint. The two met at Road Wild, but this time Onoo’s help backfired when he accidentally hit the wrong man with a briefcase, making Miller lose the match. After that, the two broke up and Onoo left WCW.
Martial Arts Leader Oso Tayari Casel
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tayari_casel_power_hour_12182012.mp3 Oso Tayari Casel is a humanitarian dedicated to improving the world one community at a time. His many cultural and philanthropic missions to several countries around the world fostered his cognizance of impactful community involvement. Throughout the years, Oso advanced his service-oriented endeavors in the United States as a youth counselor, community engagement consultant, and most-notably as a world-renowned Martial Artist. His awareness of how Martial Arts and cultural involvement can transform communities is specifically harnessed within the Hospital Safety and Security Industry through Elite Security Services & Solutions, LLC. Oso Tayari Casel is the founder and director of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy, Inc.; an institution that researches, demonstrates and spreads the contribution that Africa and China have given to the international martial arts community, while simultaneously furthering the appreciation of contemporary and traditional African and Chinese culture. His studies include cultural and humanitarian missions to Africa, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, The Netherlands, and Taiwan, the Republic of China, the arts of Kupigana Ngumi, Shaolin and Tai Chi Chuan with the Directors of the Pan Afrikan Martial Arts Federation. One of the strongest aspects of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy is its dedication to community development, health and well being. Oso is an instructor at several elementary schools in the DC public school system. Over several decades he has worked as consultant for the Substance Abuse Services of the Department of Corrections for the Lorton Prison and Correctional Treatment Facilities. He has served as the Primary Substance Abuse Counselor for a federal program at a juvenile maximum-security prison and has worked with the District of Columbia Government’s Department of Human Services at group homes for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. In addition, he worked as a consultant to CASA Community Health, (Baltimore) a national prevention project focused on public housing developments funded by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. Oso is a Marital Arts Grand Master and utilizes his more than 55 years of experience as a Martial Arts Hall-of-Famer and instructor to lead Elite’s officers in the art of de-escalation. His ideals are at the heart of Elite’s core values of Discipline, Courtesy, Respect, and Care. These same ideals often lead the company into the midst of some of the most criminally active cities in America, where Oso continues to focus Elite on doing the highest good. During his prestigious tournament career Oso Tayari Casel ranked in the “Top Ten Black Belts in the USA” for over a decade. In the fall of 1980 he was S.T.A.R. Rated # 1 in Kung Fu and has won in some of the most prestigious competitive arenas in North America, such as: the Battle of Atlanta, Diamond Nationals, Superstar Nationals, AKA Grand Nationals, Top Ten National, Bare Knuckle Knock Out Championship and Nevada State Grand Championship. Oso Tayari Casel was one of the first to popularize ground fighting in competition. In 1975 he was the only non-Karate practitioner chosen by Chuck Norris to represent the USA in team fights. Recognition of his fighting and technical artistry garnered appearances on the covers of international martial arts publications including: Official Karate, Black Sports, Martial Arts Tradition, History and People, Inside Kung Fu, Defense Combat, Men of Steel Discipline, Black Heroes of the Martial Arts and The Official History of Karate in America: The Golden Age: 1968-1986. He was featured in two recent martial arts documentaries: Urban Dragons: Black and Latino Masters in the Chinese Martial Arts and The Black Kung Fu Experience for Public Broadcast Systems (PBS). He is inducted in the Action Martial Arts Magazine’s Hall of Honors & Spirits Awards: Golden Pioneer, World Professional Martial Arts Hall of Fame: Legend Kung Fu Fighter, United States Karate Hall of Fame: Grand Master, Golden Eagle Awards, Howard University Washington, DC, Chicago Martial Arts Lifetime Achievement Award, and many more. After retiring from competition he successfully co-founded and promoted the Triple “AAA” rated US Capitol Classics Martial Arts Tournament for seven years in the nation’s capital. Oso Tayari Casel has appeared in various martial arts films and is a frequent guest on local television and radio programs. He teaches and lectures throughout the country and internationally, and is the Master Teacher at Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy in Silver Spring, Md. Tayari Casel also performed as a professional magician at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA. Oso Tayari Casel began martial arts during the turbulent times of the civil rights era. For reasons as simple as being able to defend himself from neighborhood bullies or dealing with confrontations involving the extremist of society as well as self pride. Forty Seven (47) years later little did he recognize that his childhood hobby would take him around the world. During those travels he would have life changing experiences, visiting fascinating places, meeting intriguing people and sharing moments of despair, fatigue, sadness, frustration, joy and happiness. He never imagined on that early fall evening when he took his first class at the Southtown YMCA in Chicago, Illinois @ 66th and Union Avenue that his journey into the martial arts would leave a legacy around the world.
Black Belt Magazine Hall of Famer Willie “The Bam” Johnson
Martial Arts Leader Willie “The Bam” Johnson, is an award-winning martial arts teacher whose life mission is to help young adults and others become empowered, through the martials arts in order to make good life choices. He is a seven-time sport karate and kung fu world champion, a two-time All-American champion, and a nationally ranked Triple Crown martial arts champion. He teaches at The Bams Martial Arts Academy. Willie H. Johnson resides in Laurel Maryland. He can be contacted at www.pointmma.com Willie is passionate about empowering others, below are a list of activities he either founded or personally supports. POINT MMA Safety based Mixed Martial Arts Krazy Martial Athletic 1-minute fitness workout challenges Diva Grit Empowering women through fitness and self-defense Authentic Street Combat! Safety Safety and street self-defense WARRIOR MINDSET Helping people to find balance in live through martial arts CALL 2 ACTION Finding the next big martial arts action stars!
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen is an expert in life success, sports performance training, and international business coaching. He is a corporate educator for Duke Corporate Education and trains executives on how to break through barriers to achieve their next level of success. He is the President and Owner of Karate International of Durham, Inc. and Elite Corporate Coaching. He opened his martial arts school in 1980 in Durham, NC, running a successful school with hundreds of students under his leadership. Hosting one of the longest-running martial arts tournaments in North Carolina, the Durham Karate Open, established in 1979, Grandmaster Bowen is the former coach of the Duke University Taekwondo Team, former martial arts coach for the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill football team, former sports coordinator for the NCAS and the USOC Olympic Festival, inducted into numerous martial arts halls of fame for his martial arts achievements including the Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors 2018 Contribution in Publishing Award, for 2018 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Book. As an educator, he has been on the Duke University Physical Education staff for over 20 years, influencing thousands of students in mind-body training. Hanshi Bowen is also a professional bowler (PBA Member) and bowling instructor of physical education at Duke University. He has published over 20 books on personal development training, including the 2015 & 2015 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Autobiography Book, Unstoppable Confidence, Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Success Guide, Get Motivated – the Key to Success, Zen Mind-Body Meditation System – Meditation for Everyday Living, and others. https://www.amazon.com/Jessie-Bowen/e/B00M2HGDEG
The Black Dragon Ron Van Clief
Ron “The Black Dragon” Van Clief is a martial arts legend. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1943, where he started martial arts training in his early teens. Ron Van Clief served in the U.S. Marine from 1960 to 1965 with a tour in the Vietnam War in the year 1965. Following his military service, he became a New York City Transit Police Officer from 1965 to 1968. Ron Van Clief went on to become a five-time karate and kung fu world champion and a 15-time All-American Champion. He has competed in both full-contact and non-contact karate tournaments in New York and several national tournaments. His martial arts training began in the mid-1950s, which he later trained alongside Bruce Lee in Hong Kong and was nicknamed, “The Black Dragon”. Van Clief was a student of Goju-Ryu masters Peter Urban, Frank Ruiz, and Moses Powell, as well as WingTsun founder Leung Ting Modern Arnis (Remy Presas) Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Joe Moreira). On December 16, 1994 he competed in the 4th Ultimate Fighting Championship at age 51 against Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Royce Gracie. Van Clief is an author and creator of a number of instructional books and video recordings, as well as film choreographer and actor appearing in several films. Ron Van Clief continues to conduct seminars and attend training with his son in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. https://www.ronvanclief.com/
Founder of Combat Hapkido John Pellegrini
The founder of modern Combat Hapkido Grandmaster John Pellegrini has many accomplishments to his name and here is a list of them so that readers can learn much more about one of the leaders of the world of martial arts. 10th Dan Combat Hapkido – World Martial Arts Alliance, 9th Dan Hapkido – World Ki-Do Federation / Hanminjok Hapkido Association, Founder / President “International Combat Hapkido Federation” , • 9th Dan TaeKwonDo – Founder “Independent TaeKwonDo Association”, Founder / President of the “International Police Defensive Tactics Institute”, Founder / President of the “Military Combatives Association”, Founder / President of the “World Martial Arts Alliance” HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS 1988 USA Korean Karate Association “Instructor of the Year”, 1995 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Diamond Life Achievement” , 1996 – 1997 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Golden Life” – “Founder of the Year”, 1996 Florida Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer”, 1998 Martial Arts Masters, Pioneers & Legends Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 1998 – 2004 World Karate Union Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 1999 United Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2000 United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 2001 Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2003 United States Martial Artists Assoc. Hall of Fame “Golden Life Achievement”, 2003 Masters Hall of Fame “Silver Life Achievement”, 2003 Int. Assoc. of Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Outstanding Practitioner”, 2004 Inducted in the “TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame for Hapkido”, 2004 Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame “Instructor of the Year”, 2005 Budo Int. Magazine Hall of Fame “Legend Grandmaster”, 2006 Aaron Banks’ World Professional M. A. Hall of Fame: “World Renowned Hapkido Grandmaster”, 2007 Artes Marciales Magazine Hall of Fame “Martial Arts Pioneer”, 2007 Cinturon Negro Magazine (Spain) International Hall of Fame “Distinguished Founder”, 2008 Inducted “Hall da Fama Das Artes Marciais Brasileiras”, 2014 TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame “U.S. Grandmaster of the Year”, 2017 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer Award”, 2019 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Legends Award” MAJOR MEDIA FEATURES March 1990 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, 1991 Featured on “ESPY-TV: World of Martial Arts”, 1992 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” – Karate International Magazine, April 1994 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1995 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business” Magazine, October 1996 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo & Korean Combat Arts” Magazine (UK), July 1997 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1999 Cover feature “Martial Arts Professional” Magazine, October 1999 Article in the “Wall Street Journal”, September 2000 Cover feature “Artes Marciales” Magazine (Latin America), June 2001 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business.com” Magazine, September 2002 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 2003 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, Featured in the 2003 Edition of “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” Book, December 2004 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, February 2005 Cover feature “Action Martial Arts” Magazine, April 2005 Cover feature “Mundo Marcial” Magazine (Latin America), May 2005 Cover feature “Disciplinas” Magazine (Latin America), August 2006 Cover feature “Afghanistan Freedom Watch” Magazine, January 2009 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, September 2009 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, May 2012 Cover Feature TaeKwonDo Times Magazine, July 2015 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine. Federal Air Marshall Service – NATO Forces Europe – US Army 10th Mountain Division – Costa Rica Police SWAT Team – Colombia Air Force Anti-Terrorist Unit – US Office of Naval Intelligence – German Air Force & many other Police Depts. & Military Units around the World. https://www.dsihq.com/
Martial Artist and Fitness Pro Linda Josefsson “Lady Viking”
Linda Josefsson was featured on the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez to share her story, he is a little more about here and her journey to date. She is a 4 time national martial arts champion and acclaimed fitness trainer. “Many people aren’t aware of her accomplishments such as being a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under famed martial arts Billy Blanks as well as being a part of the original Tae Bo series. She holds a degree in economics as well as in fashion design, knowledge that she has integrated into her current training programs. Learn more about Linda Josefsson aka the “Lady Viking” Having struggled with eating disorders throughout her childhood and teen age years Linda used fitness to heal and put herself through a complete body transformation from a chunky teenage girl to a lean figure competitor. At the age of 47 she’s in better shape than ever proving that with hard work and a no quitting attitude age is nothing but a number. Her experience, knowledge, training and hardcore approach has inspired many and given her clients the tools to succeed. Linda “Lady Viking” Josefsson has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. She’s also has a 3rd degree black belt in martial arts. Linda Josefsson is a native of Sweden. She studied Economics in college and has a degree in Fashion Design from Boras University in Sweden. Growing up Linda was competitive in several sports including track & field, horse back riding, soccer and cross country skiing. She later moved to France to pursue a career as a professional horse trainer in Western riding. In 1990 Linda moved to California as an exchange student and during this time she was introduced to 7-time World Karate Champion and Tae-Bo creator Billy Blanks. It was here she found her deep passion for martial arts and the place she would call “home” for the next 29 years. Linda was always a natural athlete and after only 2 years she received her black belt from Mr. Blanks. All the hard work and countless hours of training later resulted in 4 National Championships as well as a tournament win in amateur boxing. A shoulder injury prevented Linda from doing further competitive boxing but instead she’s been sharing her skills and knowledge teaching martial arts. Today Linda is a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a very accomplished personal trainer, corporate trainer and group exercise instructor. She is also an NPC figure competitor. She’s been teaching at several gyms in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley area and has devoted her life to helping people accomplish their fitness goals. www.ladyvikingfitness.com https://www.instagram.com/swedish_vikinglady/
Twin Cities Lyme Foundation Founder Lisa Najarian
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-04-15-UCWRadio_LisaNajarian.mp3 We had the opportunity to have the founder of Twin Cities Lyme Foundation and social platform “My Girlfriendships” Lisa Najarian on the UCW Radio Show. The social platform brings women together globally virtually and in real life, giving them the opportunity to create lasting memories. The Twin Cities Lyme Foundation is a work of passion for her as it gives her the opportunity to save someone the pain that she had to endure without knowing whats wrong, its about bringing awareness as well as helping people through guidance to get the help that they need. “Lisa Najarian is a good soul, she is known as the Caretaker, I referred to her as such because she is the anchor of her family, of her foundation and of many other projects. What she is doing for others is amazing, she’s not just a spokesperson she gets her hands dirty and that is what makes it incredible. She’s touching so many lives and I’m proud of what she’s done and is about to do as an author, more over I’m proud to call her my friend and part of my family. Just an outright good hearted person making a difference.” – Louis Velazquez Her Story: Sixteen years and several misdiagnoses later, in 2015, Lisa Najarian was diagnosed with Lyme disease. Over the course of those years, she suffered greatly with symptoms that were a complete mystery to her. “I felt like such an oddball in so many situations! One day I would feel good and the next day I would be wiped out. I felt as though most everyone thought I was crazy or lying about my health,” she expresses. “I have almost completely lost my hearing in my left ear and my right ear’s hearing loss varies from day to day. I now know I have over 60 symptoms of Lyme disease. It is a horrible disease and one NO ONE should ever have to endure!” Lisa, a California native, has lived her adult life in the top three most prevalent Lyme infested regions in the nation. She believes, as an avid gardener, she was bitten while living in Illinois, however, does not remember seeing a target rash. After 14 years in Illinois, she moved with her husband and two children to Connecticut, the mecca for Lyme disease. There, she became aware of Lyme, and strongly suspected a correlation between her multiple symptoms and the tick-borne disease. Her move to Minnesota in 2014 brought hope and a positive diagnosis. “I am passionate to create the same awareness here in the Midwest that there is on the East Coast. Too many people are unaware and so many need to be helped.” Lisa received a BA in education at California State University, Chico and earned her Masters Degree in Education from National University. She, her husband and children reside in the Twin Cities area.
Singer, Actress and Fitness Trainer Dawn Derow
On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with Dawn Derow, a very talented singer who focuses on cabaret style music but is diverse and can cross over into rock, jazz and opera. She is also a fitness trainer, actress and writer. Learn more about her on the show. www.ucwradio.com More About Dawn Derow A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Dawn grew up in Eastham, MA and began pursuing her performing career in her childhood. She graduated from the Boston Conservatory with a Bachelor’s in Music: Vocal Performance & Opera Emphasis, achieving the second highest vocal score in her class. After graduation, Dawn performed in operas and musicals around the world, as well as a guest entertainer aboard international cruise ships, displaying an uncanny ability to transition from singing a Puccini aria to a jazzy torch song. Cabaret Awards & Performances In 2008, Dawn, having lived in New York City for several years, began to pursue a Cabaret career. Over the past 12 years, she has performed in prestigious venues, including the Weill Center at Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, The Laurie Beechman Theater, Don’t Tell Mama, The Friars Club, the Bitter End, The Cutting Room, Carroll Place, and most recently The Green Room 42. Dawn used her songwriting and guitar abilities throughout her Cabaret performances, leading to high praise for her shows. Dawn soon after began reeling in the awards. Her CD Music 4 TWO with award-winning guitarist Sean Harkness earned her a 2014 nomination for “Best CD” from the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs (MAC). In 2015, Dawn won her first MAC award for her work in the duo show REVOLUTION with Kathleen France. In 2016, Dawn employed her formidable opera singing skills in her solo show LEGIT: A Classical Cabaret. She received a Bistro Award for “Outstanding Vocalist” for her performance. Two years later, Dawn won the 2018 MAC Award for “Best Female Vocalist” for her critically acclaimed show, My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her director, Jeff Harner, also won “Best Director” from the Bistro and MAC awards. Dawn will be releasing an album of her songs from MY SHIP: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Dawn’s most recent show, The House That Built Me, played to packed audiences at the Laurie Beechman Theater. Based on her love for her father’s vast record collection that Dawn grew up listening to, she weaves a story of how these songs inspired and helped her blossom into the multi-faceted performer she is today. The setlist includes classic pop hits and Broadway show tunes from legendary performers such as Judy Collins, Jacques Brel, Crosby Still Nash & Young, Rosemary Clooney, as well as contemporary artists P!nk and Miranda Lambert. The House That Built Me received rave reviews from the press, which you can read below. In the Fall of 2019, Dawn sang in the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Convention at Rose Hall at Lincoln Center. You can view Dawn’s performance of “White Cliffs of Dover” on her YouTube Channel. Dawn’s next solo cabaret production, Gypsy In My Soul: The Songs of Eydie Gorme, was delayed due to COVID-19. Stay tuned for updated performance dates coming soon. Dawn will be releasing her album of songs from My Ship: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Health and Fitness When Dawn isn’t performing, her main focus has been on her work in the area of health, fitness, and body healing. In 2013, Dawn launched her company Divine Body Balance. Her company helps clients using her expertise as a NASM-certified personal trainer, AFFA group fitness instructor, Yoga Alliance instructor, Thai Massage practitioner, mobility health coach, and as Rock Tape: Cupping, Kinesiology taping practitioner. Whether it’s through song or body work, Dawn’s mission is to connect with and heal the human mind, body, and soul. https://www.dawnderow.com/
HGTV, DIY Star Jason Cameron
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-17-UCWRadio_JasonCameron_111720.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the opportunity to speak with HGTV and DIY star Jason Cameron, known for Man Caves, Desperate Landscapes and so much more. We talk about his fitness days, his background in construction, his mentoring of youth, his great relationship with his wife as well as Tony Siragusa, Charlie Sheen and Snoop Dogg and much more . make sure to follow him on social media @jcamerontv Jason Cameron is an American television presenter and actor most notable for his role on the TLC reality show, While You Were Out and is currently hosting Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes for the DIY Network. Some more about Jason Cameron Jason moved to New York City to pursue an acting career, he had his heart and mind set on it. He landed a few minor roles at that time from Sex and the City, The Guiding Light to All My Children. Being ambitious and not one to hold back he jumped right into print modeling in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Maxim and GQ. While in pursuit of his dream, Jason was always drawn to carpentry and construction which started at a very young age. he worked as a construction worker after college to make ends meet. In 2003, he auditioned as an on-screen carpenter for the TLC renovation program, While You Were Out. He got the job and joined the cast in season two, staying on until the end of the show’s run in 2006. After the show’s end, Cameron became a licensed contractor and was approached by DIY Network to host their landscape makeover show Desperate Landscapes in 2007. Since then, he has also been hosting Man Caves and Project Xtreme for the network. On the health and fitness front Jason Cameron is a certified personal trainer, specializing in strength and conditioning. He has competed in numerous bodybuilding competitions and has worked as a fitness model, appearing in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Muscle Media. He is currently a representative and the Fitness Expert for Men’s Fitness.
The Martial Arts Woman Andrea Harkins
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-11-UCWRadio_AndreaHarkins_111020.mp3 Andrea F. Harkins, a/k/a THE MARTIAL ARTS WOMAN, is an internationally recognized writer, motivator, and martial artist. She was a long-time columnist for Martial Arts Illustrated UK where she shared stories of successful martial art women. She currently writes for The Martial Arts Guardian (UK), MASUCCESS, The Parrish Village News, and her blog, The Martial Arts woman. Previously she wrote for Martial Arts Business (Australia),Conflict Manager, The World Martial Arts Magazine, and Think Positive Magazine. MAGAZINE FEATURES: She has been featured twice in The World Martial Arts Magazine, twice in Martial Art Illustrated UK, and twice in MASUCCESS magazine. BOOKS: Andrea’s first book, The Martial Arts Woman shares the stories and insights of more than twenty-five women in the martial arts and how they apply martial arts to their lives. In this book, the reader catches a glimpse into the brave and empowered woman who dares to be all that she can be. Her second book, Martial Art Inspirations for Everyone, are daily anecdotes and reflections for living a better life. HALL OF FAME: In July, 2017, Andrea was inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Leading Motivational Speaker/Author/ Martial Arts Business Expert. She was inducted into the Canadian Martial Art Hall of Fame in 2016. She is also listed in AMAA’s Who’s Who in Martial Arts 1st Edition. INTERVIEWS: Andrea has been interviewed on numerous martial art and positivity podcast shows including Martial Thoughts, Martial Art Nation, Warriorcast, the Dynamic Dojo Radio Show, Martial Arts Media, Readily Random, Life is a Marathon, the Master Jack show, and more, where she has shared her insightful messages of positivity, hope, and inspiration. Her mission is to help others live positive, happy, and powerful lives. IGNITE YOUR POWER! Join Andrea in her journey to discover how to win life’s everyday challenges. It does not matter if you are a martial artist. Every person is capable of igniting their personal power, wisdom, and grace, with compassion and spirit, just like a seasoned martial artist. Find the balance that is missing in your life, and learn Andrea’s secrets and martial arts wisdom that she graciously shares, in order to help you live a better life each and every day. https://www.themartialartswoman.com
Acclaimed Artist Danielle Weber
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-12-09-UCWRadio_DanielleWeber_120920.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the pleasure of having Danielle Weber on the show, she is an extremely talented artist that works include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tupac, Queen and so much more. To add to her awesome talent she’s heavy into fitness as a lifestyle, keeping herself fit in mind, body and soul. Please learn more about her at www.daniellesartwork.com and listen to the show on https://www.ucwradio.com Danielle Weber is an Australian artist based in Melbourne. Danielle’s passion and love for her craft is evident through her diverse range of styles and quality. https://daniellesartwork.com About Danielle Weber: Danielle Weber is an Australian artist, whose passion and love for her craft is evident through her diverse range of styles and quality of work. Danielle’s career in art stems from growing up in an artistic and creative family, with an abundance of encouragement and support leading to her art dream being released in 2011 Since Danielle received a comment from Dwayne Johnson on a portrait of him she had painted, her dream of becoming a world acclaimed artist has become a reality. Meeting Dwayne in 2015 reassured her that her place in the art world was firmly established. With a strong and rapidly growing social media presence, Danielle’s work has extended to Hollywood actors, Olympians, Sports stars and Leading Business personalities. She has been commissioned by clients as far as the Middle East and creates works which span from realism to abstract pieces. Articles about her work have featured on ABC news, News.com.au, Broadsheet and the Geelong Advertiser. Danielle’s work has been recognised by the likes of Tim Cahill, Chris Brown, Ice Cube, Conor McGregor and Gal Gadot. Danielle’s reach continues to grow worldwide. A beautiful example of the impact and influence her work has can be seen with her recent road trip through Spain. While traveling she stumbled upon the small town of Torreblanca, where she discovered and took photos of the murals around town. Word got out on social media that she was there, sparking the organisers of the Torreblanca urban art festival, CITRIC, to reach out and ask her to be to be a part of the festival, and of course, she said yes! In 2018, Australia’s leading sports media business Crocmedia commissioned Danielle to paint her biggest mural to date in only 7 days! The piece celebrated the companies association with sport and was painted on the side of their Marquee located in the Birdcage at the 2018 Racing Spring Carnival which was seen by hundreds of thousands of people. Her extensive range of murals grace the walls of restaurants, cafes, shop fronts, gyms, dance studios and external walls of a variety of building developments. Mural work has extended to marketing pieces like the ones heralding the release of Paramore’s recent album and Galantis. She has worked with reputable brands such as Converse, Uncle Jack Watches, and Taubmans Australia on a variety of projects. She is aligned with charities and proudly represented Starlight Foundation, Red Kite, Beyond Blue, Cancer Council and many more. Danielle’s creative ventures extend to public speaking with a focus on motivational speaking to young people, whether as part of mentoring programs or school visits. Recent participation as part of a panel of successful young women for a My Go to Gal event demonstrated her commitment to empowering young women with advice on how to become successful in male dominated fields as her own. With a Double Degree in a Bachelor of Health Sciences and Bachelor of Arts, Danielle prides herself on her strict work ethic and discipline, to ensure she maintains her ability to create consistently. Danielle’s bold approach to challenges underpins her success and drive and her extensive experience on the world stage. Having traveled to over 40 countries across the world her extensive cultural understandings and breadth of vision bring depth and spirit to her work.
Super Bowl Champion and Acclaimed Author Ryan Harris
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-02-13-UCWRadio_RyanHarris_02082021.mp3 Super Bowl Champion, author and financial literacy advocate, Ryan Harris, joins host Louis Velazquez on the UCW Radio Show to talk about everything from sports to finance and his new books. Ryan Harris is a former American football offensive tackle of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 2007 NFL Draft and also played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Pittsburgh Steelers. About Ryan Harris Super Bowl 50 Champion Ryan Harris is a 10 year veteran of the NFL. Ryan was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2007 as an offensive tackle. Ryan left Denver for a few years and continued his career with the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs. He then came back to Denver and played left tackle in the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 Championship year. Most recently Ryan was with the Pittsburgh Steelers before retiring at the end of the 2016 season. Ryan played college football at the University of Notre Dame, where he graduated with two degrees, one in Economics and Policy and the other in Political Science. Ryan is a practicing Muslim, from Minnesota, and currently resides with his family in Denver, CO. Off the field, Ryan believes that together we can change the world. He believes that “It is your right to be extraordinary.” That when we embrace that right, we create positive change in the world. And through our commitment to educate ourselves, invest in our communities and act on our passions, real change happens www.ryanharris68.com
Powerlifting Icon and Motivational Speaker C.T. Fletcher
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-03-04-UCWRadio_CTFletcher_03032021.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we has the pleasure of having not only a bench press world champion but also a true inspiration and prime example of inner strength , C.T. Fletcher , the Iron Addict himself joined us BUT this is a special show as we had his wife and family anchor Ms. Bea and his son who just became a world champion himself Samson Fletcher. https://training.ctfletcher.com , https://www.ucwradio.com Learn more about the incredible C.T. Fletcher: https://www.ctfletcher.com “In the years that followed I was actually able to lift some decent weight. Realizing I was given a second chance, I adapted a healthy lifestyle. I resigned myself to the fact that my powerlifting days were done. The records of my accomplishments were in the books and I returned to my first weightlifting endeavor and re-immersed myself into bodybuilding. I was blessed to compete in bodybuilding again and was blessed even more with a title here and there. The bottom line is I did not give up on my gift of life. I decided to live and pursue happiness and fulfillment of my aspirations. Along the way I have been able to convey this same passion to others. I find joy in my experience with others, as they discover what they already possess! Today’s social media is an amazing fuckin thing!!! Through the miracle of it, I have been able to tell my story. Its incredible how we are all so fuckin connected! This is true in more ways than one. I continue to tell my story and shed insight with others who actually are interested in my opinion or advice. I am happy to help. In return I receive thousands of kind messages and letters from people all over the world about how I have made a positive difference in their lives! IMAGINE THAT???? HUMILITY does not even begin to scratch the surface. Me? An old guy infatuated with weights, as it was and continues to be my instrument to transform and in some cases reinvent myself! Ultimately, I say follow your dreams, reach those “unattainable” goals, but also use your instincts and do not sacrifice your health!!! Your body is a gift from God, your temple! In most cases we as human beings have full control of how we choose to sculpt our bodies. Do not take it for granted, we only get one! If you want to accomplish a physical task or condition, it is up to YOU (and the Good Lord willing). You will no doubt encounter obstacles, but bear in mind, “It’s Still Yo Mutha Fuckin Set!” It’s now 2016…and a lot has changed since last year!!! I have decided to try my hand at processing your orders of Iron Addicts merchandise. I feel that more involvement by me and my family will make for a more gratifying experience. Gym wise: Iron Addicts Gym in Signal Hill, CA has opened its doors. This is my first gym!!! There is also an Iron Addicts Gym in Las Vegas NV and as of April 23rd an Iron Addicts Gym in Miami, FL. Even more exciting gym news, there are plans this year for an Iron Addicts / Nitro Gym in AUSTRALIA!!! It is my goal that no matter where the fuck in the world that you are, you’ll be right at home at an Iron Addicts Gym near YOU!”
Martial Arts Leader and Action Film Director Bobby Samuels
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-10-31-UCWRadio_BobbySamuels_10302020.mp3 On the episode of the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez we have action film director Bobby Samuels on the show, we touched on film making today, diversity in film, the digital disruption and the growth of independent film making. Bobby is one of the leaders in the action film industry that is rising higher each year, he has opened up doors for many and continues to do so today. He is on the path to releases a number of new projects in 2021/22 and we can not be prouder of him on the UCW Radio Show. Just one of the really good guys in the world of entertainment who gives back to so many. About Bobby Samuels American martial artist Robert Samuels was a fan of martial arts and Hong Kong cinema, following in the footsteps of Jim Kelly & Ron Van Clief. Samuels got his first role on the movie The Gambling Ghost where he played a minor bad guy, but his knowledge of martial arts and enthusiasm made an impression on Sammo Hung who would later give him his biggest role in Don’t Give A Damn, before introducing him to Yuen Wo-ping who hired him to play one of the terrorists trying to take over the cruise liner in The Red Wolf. Samuels would then appear as an extra in Teddy Robin’s Hong Kong Graffiti, before leaving Hong Kong to break into the American industry. All shows are done on the premiere video collaboration network VEROHive https://www.verohive.com , its FREE to join and be part of the evolution!
World’s Fitness One Arm Man Logan Aldridge
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-10-29-UCWRadio_LoganAldridge.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with a truly inspirational person in the world fittest one arm man Logan Aldridge, we touch on his accident, his motivation, his company Adaptive Training (ATA) and so much more. Take a listen and be inspired! Logan’s story in his own words: June 26, 2004 should have gone down as one of the worst days in history, at least for Logan Aldridge. On that summer evening, Logan was wakeboarding with his family near their vacation home on Lake Gaston in Virginia. In a terrible instant, the rope around his arm became entangled in the boat’s propeller and cut through all his muscles right to the bone. Six hours, one ambulance, one helicopter, and two hospitals later, it was clear that there was no other choice – Logan’s left arm had to be amputated. A conversation between Logan and his mother, Lisa, set the attitude for his extraordinary recovery. He said, “Mom, what if I lose my arm?” She replied, “It’s OK. It’s only an arm.” The next day, seeing the reflection of his amputated arm in a window, Logan cried. That was the first and last time Logan grieved his loss. Somehow he knew that bigger and better things were waiting for him. Logan’s friends and family showered him with love and encouragement. He was left-handed, and had to learn how to write all over again. He also had to relearn simple things like tying shoes and buttoning pants – this time with just one hand. But he quickly moved on from the basics to the sports he loves. One year later, as soon as Logan was able, he hit the water with a passion to do his very best. Logan has not only overcome the challenge of losing a limb, but he is achieving at the highest levels. He was the youngest competitor and placed 2nd in wakeboarding at the 2006 O&P Extremity Games for amputees. He also plays on the varsity lacrosse team at his school, snowboards, and shoots under 100 on the golf course! The day that should have ruined one life is, instead, transforming the lives of thousands. It began a journey of hope for Logan and for the countless people he has touched with his inspiring story.
Mike “The Miz” Mizanin 2004 Interview
This is an interview conducted by Louis Velazquez with Mike “The Miz” Mizanin in 2004 Real Name: Michael Gregory Mizanin Ring Name: The Miz Height: 6′ 1″ Weight: 215 Home: Parma, OH Years in Wrestling: 1 yr. 8 months Current Affiliations: UPW Past Affiliations: NA Ultimate Goals: contract with WWE Website Links: www.themizareyouready.com Favorite Color: black and blue Favorite music group: Right now, Trapt Favorite Movie: Swingers, Old School, Forrest Gump, Dumb and Dumber Be good. Be bad. Be MIZ. That’s the saying… Why you ask? I created a character called The Miz because of a feeling I get. Everyone has a Miz in them. People fear bringing their MIZ out because of what everyone’s reaction may be. They care too much about what people think instead of being themselves. That fear, that feeling of being scared is what gives MIZ it’s amo! Whether it’s the fear of approaching someone you desire in a bar for the first time, bungee jumping, sky diving, or just plain old fear of anything, it’s allowing yourself to be scared! But when you are being Miz, you step up to that fear and turn that knot in your stomach into energy which then turns to adrenaline which builds up and builds up until you explode. And that my friends is when you are being “MIZ.” The Miz is bringing out that raw, primal side. The side that has no judgements that is just you. It doesn’t care what people think or how they’ll react. The Miz steps up to that fear and shoves it right up someone’s ass. Some people say “Be yourself.” I say Be good. Be bad. BE MIZ. Miz This month on the cover of UCW’s Pro Wrestling Online magazine is probably one of the next WWE stars to enter the ring, Michael Mizanin, better known as “THE MIZ”, he is one of the star attractions of the Ultimate Pro Wrestling Promotion run by the legendary Rick Bassman and has gone from the Wrestling World to the Real World and his future is looking brighter and brighter. Louis Velazquez: Miz, thanks for taking time out of your obviously busy schedule to participate in this Q&A session with us. MIZ: Not a problem, anything to support what you’re doing. Louis Velazquez: Thank you Miz that’s always good to hear, so let me ask you something, what got you interested in Pro Wrestling? MIZ: Ever since I was a little kid I’ve loved to watch wrestling but never thought I was big enough to do it. I tried out for a show called The Real World. Trying out and making it onto this show was a dream for me as corny as it may sound. I remember in 7th grade sitting there watching The Real World San Francisco and saying to myself that some day I ‘m going to be on this show. 8 years later I followed that dream to become part of the cast of The Real World 10. While taping I felt that nobody really liked me and wouldn’t accept me for who I was. So I created The Miz, my alter ego, and started telling people off. The cast started liking The Miz better than they liked Mike so did the fans. That ended and I went back to Parma not really knowing what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I had to get out of Parma. I started paging through my high school year book and that brought back memories of my friends coming over to my house every Sunday to watch wrestling. Remember back in those days there were usually a paper view every Sunday between WWE, WCW, and ECW. I realized that day that I wanted to become a professional wrestler. I moved to Los Angeles and started attending UPW’s Ultimate University ever since then I’ve been addicted. The Real World made me realize I can achieve my dreams if I try hard enough so that’s what I’m doing. Louis Velazquez: Miz, I have to say that you are one intense person and you have a lot of drive, that is what makes you different from most, this is just what I see, those are the qualities needed for success. So when you finally got to step into the Ring how did you feel? MIZ: I was nervous as hell. I didn’t know what to think. I saw all these guys taking bumps and I had no idea what to do. I never wrestled in high school so even chain wrestling was new to me. Louis Velazquez: I can understand that totally, Well one major benefit of being guided by Rick Bassman is that you are taught the the ropes beyond taking bumps, who actually came up with your gimmick? MIZ: I came up with The Miz on the Real World. Everybody would pick on me in the house nitpicking mostly and I never liked to hurt people’s feelings. Until one day I went off and had no idea what I said because I was in the zone but from then on I gained respect from everyone in the house. Louis Velazquez: That was the first gimmick that you had if I’m not mistaken right? MIZ: Yes, That was the first gimmick. However, I do remember dressing up like different wrestlers when I was a kid. Louis Velazquez: You have been wrestling for about a year and a half, have you worked with other promotions beyond UPW? MIZ: Not really, I’ve mainly worked with UPW. Louis Velazquez: You’re obviously a bright guy and I’m sure that you do other things beyond wrestling, can you share that with us? MIZ: I go to colleges and speak to students about issues that face them in their everyday lives. I take my experiences off the Real World and try to take what I’ve learned and spill it to them. It’s a great job because it helps get me comfortable in front of big crowds. I
Beth Phoenix 2004 Interview
This is an interview conducted by Louis Velazquez with Beth Phoenix in 2004 Real Name: Beth Phoenix Ring Name: The Fabulous Firebird Phoenix Height: 5’8 Weight: 160 Home: Buffalo, NY Years in Wrestling: 3 Current Affiliations: NeoSpirit Pro (Canada) World Xtreme Wrestling (PA) Far North Wrestling (PA) Past Affiliates: Apocalypse Wrestling Federation (Canada) New England Championship Wrestling (Mass) Ultimate Goals: I hope to make it to WWE as well as become one of the best female wrestlers around. Favorite Color: blue Favorite music group: Metallica or Limp Bizkit Favorite Movie: X Men and X Men II Louis Velazquez: We are here today with one the bright and rising stars on the Indy scene, she went from Amateur to Pro, she hails from Buffalo, NY, she is the “Fabulous Firebird Phoenix” , Phoenix thank you for taking time out for us this month. Beth Phoenix: You are more than welcome, it’s my pleasure Louis Velazquez: Well we are glad to have you here, now Phoenix what got you interested in Pro Wrestling? Beth Phoenix: As the old story goes, I grew up watching wrestling with my grandma. I just got infatuated with it. It influenced my life a lot growing up and a lot of the decisions I made as a young adult. It’s been a very positive influence in my life and I’ve always felt a calling that I was meant to do this. I didn’t choose wrestling, wrestling chose me. Louis Velazquez: Thats profound, I know that you were an amateur grappler early on, but stepping in between the ropes is a different feeling in itself, how did it feel for you? Beth Phoenix: The first time I “stepped into the ring” as a trainee was a lot different from the mats I was used to as an amateur wrestler in high school and with USA Wrestling. I learned respect for the damage that you can do to yourself in pro wrestling right away. It was a humbling and empowering experience that I still feel every time I go out there. Louis Velazquez: I’m glad that you said that because most people think that just anyone can step into the ring, its not that easy, Phoenix who came up with your gimmick? Beth Phoenix: I came up with my own name. It wasn’t so much an influence of Marvel’s popular comic character from the X-Men as it was the symbolism of me leaving my “normal” life behind to start my own journey towards my dreams. The moniker, Fabulous Firebird is a tribute to my affinity for the world’s most affordable muscle car, the Pontiac Firebird. I don’t like to use the word “gimmick” to describe who I am in the ring because “gimmick” limits you to a one dimensional character. I feel that my character is uniquely versatile and allows me to be more than just an angry female…it allows me to fit and adapt to each situation, each match in a way that you might not expect. Louis Velazquez: Was that the first Moniker that you used or were there others? Beth Phoenix: I’ve been Phoenix since the beginning. Louis Velazquez: Consistency, that’s the only thing that allows you to gain a following. What promotions did you work for and who are you affiliated with currently? Beth Phoenix: I’m affiliated with many promotions, however, I have put a focus lately on WXW, run by Afa the Wild Samoan because I believe that they put out a great product. In addition, they have a tremendous ladies roster. I haven’t found another promotion yet with that many solid lady wrestlers. Louis Velazquez: Well Afa has been around for a long time so if anyone knows this business it’s him, so what else do you do beyond wrestling?, what are your hobbies? Beth Phoenix: I have to spend a lot of time in the gym not only for the physical benefits but for my mental health as well. Nothing can relieve stress better than lifting weights. My other hobbies include piano and painting. I grew up a very bored little kid and as a result spent a lot of time practicing piano and painting portraits. Louis Velazquez: I agree, hitting the weights and cardio is the best stress relief. Do you see yourself eventually making it to the corporate structure of the wrestling world, namely the WWE? Or are you content where you are now? Beth Phoenix: I don’t know many Indy wrestlers that would put their bodies through such incredible abuse without a hope of someday making a living out of it. I love wrestling at every level and I think that indy wrestling has a lot to offer in the form of a different product than WWE. However, my goals are straight forward. I started wrestling to reach my goal of earning a job with WWE. I won’t be satisfied until I achieve that goal for myself. Louis Velazquez: I don’t doubt you and I’m sure that you will reach your goals, you have too much drive not to. Most people that get involved with wrestling have other aspirations, do you see yourself going into acting in the future? Beth Phoenix: I think that wrestling incorporates acting into its product quite a bit now. In order to succeed in modern wrestling, you have to be able to act. Acting away from wrestling? I wouldn’t pursue it, but if I was offered something, I would certainly try it. In wrestling the more mainstream notoriety you gain, the better for your wrestling career. If it would help me get farther in wrestling, I’d definitely do it. Louis Velazquez: Well it definitely wouldn’t hurt, its good that you are keeping your doors open just in case. Let me ask your opinion on this topic, over the last decade pro wrestling has changed, the envelope is constantly being pushed which is forcing today’s workers to perform more extreme moves, what are your feelings on this? Beth Phoenix: I don’t think today’s workers are
USA Track & Field Olympian Sharrieffa Barksdale
Sharrieffa Barksdale was born in Harriman, Tennessee The 6th of 7 children, Sharrieffa was always viewed by her family as a strong-willed young lady, who was full of determination and drive to become the best at whatever she chose. This determined attitude was exemplified when she competed for the Harriman High School girls’ track team and single-handedly won the Tennessee High School State track championship. She was also named a high school All-American and identified in .Who’s Who across America. Her determination to be a winner no matter what the odds has shaped her into the woman she is today. Sharrieffa’s commitment to her craft of running was strengthened during her 5:00 a.m. morning runs she made every morning throughout her years in high school. As an all around student athlete, playing basketball, running track and cheerleading, Sharrieffa showed herself to not only be competitive, but one of the best in every endeavor she undertook. She earned a track & field scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee in Knoxville majoring in early childhood education. The work ethic that she demonstrated in high school increased as she made her way through college. She was a standout track star running for the Lady Vols, where she became the first female to run the 400 meter hurdles in under 55 seconds, clinching the American record. She later broke the American record again in the 400 meters hurdles, just missing the world record by a mere eight-tenths of a second! In 1984 she earned a spot on the United States Olympic Team that was held in Los ,Angeles, California. Following the 1984 Olympic Games she was honored by the city of Harriman with the Keys to the City, a street named after her and the local high school track where she competed as a teen was renamed “Sharrieffa Barksdale Track”. Sharrieffa continued to represent the United States in international competitions .around the world for over 10 years Sharrieffa has proven to be a champion on and off the track. Upon her retirement from the sport she began a career in retail sales, where she become an award winning sales associate. While working in retail she also committed herself to working with other aspiring track & field athletes by assisting them in their journey towards Olympic Gold. Additionally, Sharrieffa has reached out to youth in the community through her volunteer efforts as the founder director and lead choreographer of the Kentucky Diamonds and K-D Boys and Top Notch Elite Dance Team. For these youth ages 5-16, she does more than teach various moves to music, she also helps them improve their self-esteem as she teaches youth that “they are somebody” and never let anything stand in their way”. Her program has been in existence for 13 years. Sharrieffa re-entered the world of track and field in 2000 and has not slowed down, not only competing in Masters in 2008 and was award Masters Athlete of the Year through USATF Kentucky Association, but as a Coach Assistant Manager and liaison on several USA National Teams. She has coached collegiate athletes at Florida A&M University, Kentucky State University as well as a personal trainer for various athletes throughout her community Ms. Barksdale has over the years shown that in every aspect of life, a winning attitude goes a long way. She has shared her life story and provides motivation to others to help them unlock their potential when she speaks to groups around the world. Her speech provides powerful motivation for each of us to learn to navigate the obstacles of life in an effort to “Let Nothing Stand in Your Way.” Ms Barksdale is also a motivational speaker and has spoken in many venues on various platform throughout the nation and abroad. She has spoken at prestigious universities, local elementary and high schools, National and International teams as well as local, state and federal government agencies ,Sharrieffa is the proud mother two wonderful children Gentel, who is the 2015 St Augustine University Queen and Javarus, who is one of the most highly recruited football players in the nation.
Filmmaker & Urban Action Showcase Co-Founder Demetrius Angelo
As an Actor, Demetrius recognized the void in Film/TV roles for people of Color especially in the Action Films genre. In response to this void Demetrius founded ASC Productions a full service Film/TV production company producing everything from Fitness Videos to Action Films with emphasis on casting multi-ethnic Actors in principle roles. Having developed a passion for Action Films at a young age, the Action genre became his focus. Unfortunately the majority of talent available had no Martial Arts or little fight experience. With this void in “Action Actors”, Demetrius began devising a system that would teach Actors how to fight “on screen” safely without the full working knowledge of Combat. Demetrius labeled his specialized Screen Fighting system Action Scene Combat™. Demetrius soon founded the NYC Action Actors Academy teaching Action Scene Combat Screen Fighting, Movie Weapons and Tactical Firearms 4 Film to enthusiastic actors seeking a start in the Action genre. The journey of being an independent production company and Action Acting school is often challenging but with every challenge comes promotion and when the challenges of Distribution became an issue, the creation of ASC Troopers Touch Entertainment became the answer. Demetrius’s ASC Productions partnered with longtime friend and colleague of the Martial Arts, La’Mard J Wingster of Troopers Touch Films. In this partnership we offer the full production services of: Directing, Writing, Editing, Cinematography, Fight Choreography, Action Directing, Graphic Design, Marketing and Distribution. Recognizing both the need and importance for diversity in the Action Film genre Demetrius set out to create a platform that would encourage, inspire, recognize and empower the Urban Poly-Ethnic Action Community. As a result the Urban Action Showcase and Expo was manifested having the initiative of diversity with the protocols of information, education, facilitation and exposure setting itself apart from all other festivals as the mecca of the action genre, celebrating and featuring the urban community. About the UASE: Demetrius Angelo is the Founder and Executive Producer of The Urban Action Showcase and Expo (UASE). The UASE is the premier all action entertainment platform celebrating diversity and honoring the multicultural achievements within the blockbuster Action genre including Adventure, Fantasy, Grindhouse, Action Horror, Sci-Fi, and Supernatural content. The UASE is the only all Action entertainment platform offering both fan and professional experiences through its International Action Film Festival, Expo and Distribution platforms. The Urban Action Showcase International Action Film Festival welcomes Animation and Live Action Features, Shorts, TV Pilots, Web Series and Action Scenes in all aspects of the multifaceted Action genre. Our International Action Film Awards celebrate the past, present and future achievements within the genre. The Action Expo platform allows content creators, production and entertainment companies as well as other industry-related vendors the opportunity to showcase their content, goods and services to a multicultural niche target market. The Expo is also the platform in which we execute our educational, facilitation and exposure protocols through our celebrity panels, workshops and master classes. The UASE currently facilitates distribution through its relationships with Vimeo and Amazon platforms. The UASE endeavors to recognize, promote, and facilitate participation of multicultural Filmmakers, Actors and Industry Professionals specifically targeted to the Action genre. The UASE recognizes entertainment professionals by honoring excellence in various aspects of filmmaking, acting and content creation. We promote them through various media outlets, facilitate distribution opportunities, and encourage new interest through the building of strong networking communities, panels, workshops, and key sponsorship participation. The Blockbuster Action genre has been and remains the most profitable and entertaining format. It keeps us all at the edge of our seats. Action content such as Arrow, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, The Flash, and the billion dollar blockbuster Furious 7, are prime examples of how diversity fosters success. By focusing on the thrill and excitement of the Action genre and recognizing the need for integration, the UASE sets itself apart from other festival platforms as the only one of its kind! The purpose of the UASE is to ultimately see an increase in ethnic heroic principal characters in film and television, increase the development of content and expand distribution platforms reflecting multicultural images and interests as it pertains to the multifaceted Action genre. Over the past 2 year we’ve had the pleasure of honoring such industry pioneers and rising stars as: Gloria Hendy (Black Belt Jones, James Bond) Cynthia Rothrock (Rage of Honor, Lady Dragon, China O’Brien) Fred “The Hammer” Williamson (Three the Hard Way, One Down Two to Go) Don The Dragon Wilson (Ring of Fire, BloodFist, Redemption) Michael Jai White(Spawn, Blood and Bone,Arrow) Kelly Hu (X-Men 2, Martial Law, Arrow) Isaac Florentine (Director: Ninja, Ninja 2, The Power Rangers) Ron Van Clief (The Black Dragon, Super Weapon) Marrese Crump (The Protector 2, Wrong Side of Town) TJ Storm (Black Cobra, Punisher 2) Taimak (The Last Dragon) Ernie Reyes Jr. (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtules, The Run Down) Hong Kong’s Urban Action stars such as Bobby Samuels and Michael Woods Websites: www.urbanactionshowcase.com http://www.asctrooperstouchent.com/ www.twitter.com/urbanactionfest www.facebook.com/UrbanActionShowcase
Recording Artist and Actress Stephanie Gerard
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-22_stephaniegerard_interviewucw.mp3 Stephanie Gerard is a Singer, actress, environmental activist and animal lover… she is French-Mexican, raised in Canada… Lover of the Beatles music, she accomplished her dream of recording a Tribute Album of the Liverpool fab four, with the approval from London by their Music Publishing Company… Her Album “Singing The Beatles” is now one of the most listened and sold CD’s in the major music stores in Mexico. She has completed a total of 9 albums and all of them have become top selling records in Mexico and Latin America. Her presence is fresh, modern and full of energy… She has stepped on all types of stages across the world, from small showcases in shopping centers, night clubs, massive events, TV and radio shows, all the way to the “Teatro de La Ciudad” located in Mexico, City and the famous “House Of Blues” on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, CA. She speaks 5 languages, she’s a ballet and hip-hop dancer and practices yoga. Stephanie has combined her singing with her acting career, (she studied Dramatic Art at the Center of Artistic Education “CEA”, for 3 years in Mexico City), she has appeared in numerous soap operas for the TV Network “Televisa”, such as “La Madrastra”, “Mujer, Casos de La Vida Real”, “La Fea Mas Bella” and many more… She has done theater and classic plays such as “The Cherry Orchard”, “Ce Formidable Bordel” and “The Physicists”. Various commercials for important brands like Tasti-Lee, Colgate, Axe, Fiat and Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/ Ram, Freeway Insurance, Sealy. Also appeared in Films such as “The Desire of Ages” (Golden Eagle Films / Myers Media), “In Da Cut” (NBC Universal / Biblical Films), “Pecado Mortal” (Mundo FOX / Sony Music / Nitro Group), “The Chemist” (Throwing Star Films / Al Bravo Studios), among others. “Stephanie is an amazing person, she isn’t afraid of taking chances in the pursuit of her dreams and is what inspires people, you can expect to see a lot more of her in Hollywood as her career is set to skyrocket,” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.stephaniegerard.com www.stephaniegerard.com.mx www.Twitter.com/GerardStephanie
FEMALE ROCKER ALEXX CALISE
2015 Interview https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-21_alexxcalise_interviewucw2015.mp3 2010 Interview https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-06-12_alexxcalise_ucwradio.mp3 “I don’t feel sorry for being who I am”, proclaims sharp-tongued singer, guitarist and songwriter, Alexx Calise. Delivering a sound that is both fresh and uniquely her own, Calise combines crunchy rock riffs with probing lyrics and hooky pop melodies. Told throughout most of her career to not play guitar as much or at all, and to pursue a more “proven” musical direction, Calise instead chose to focus even more so on her instrument, practicing some 5-6 hours a day, and follow the only direction she knew how to—her own. Countless film and TV placements and millions of Youtube hits later, Calise has proven that her torchy vocals, impressive guitar chops and heart-and-soul lyrics are enough to make an incredible international impact, even as a completely independent artist. Calise’s hit song “Cry”–which became a web phenomenon almost overnight (spawning hundreds of covers, tributes and dance routines) after it appeared on the Lifetime show “Dance Moms”—-has gone on to sell well over 50,000 downloads independently and charted at #64 on the iTunes rock chart. Its official video features “Dance Moms” star, Maddie Ziegler, who danced to the song in several episodes of the show. Calise also recently performed her song “Survive” from her latest “AC3” EP on both “Dance Moms,” and its spinoff show, “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition”. In addition to music, Calise is also pursuing an acting career, and has appeared in a series of national Guitar Center commercials, a Disney “Science of Imagineering” DVD series, and in a Discovery Channel documentary entitled “The Science of Sex Appeal”. Ever-growing and ever-changing, the effervescent Calise is continuing to make waves one small step at a time, currently penning songs for a variety of major artists and writing songs toward her next album. Calise’s music has appeared on a multitude of different shows such as “Dance Moms” (Lifetime), “Dance Moms: Miami” (Lifetime), “Last Call With Carson Daly” (NBC), “The Voice” (NBC), Audrina” (Vh1), “Tough Love” (Vh1), “NY Ink” (TLC), “Next” (MTV), “10 on Top” (MTV), “One Tree Hill” (CW), “Texas Women” (CMT) and in the upcoming feature film, “LA, I Hate You” starring Malcolm McDowell and William Forsythe. “Alexx is a passionate and driven person, beyond music, she doesn’t rest on her talent she actually puts the work in and in my opinion she is destined for greatness so having her on the show was a definite privilege, music fans need to keep an eye on her career as its on the move” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez – 2015 Websites: www.alexxcalise.net www.twitter.com/alexxcalise www.instagram.com/alexxcalise www.youtube.com/alexxcalisemusic
Former Harlem Globetrotter Harold “Lefty” Williams
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-14_haroldleftywilliams_interviewucw.mp3 Born Harold Williams to parents Harold and Rita Gethers, Lefty grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. Raised with 7 other brothers and sisters, Lefty learned early that if he wanted something it wasn’t going to come easily; there would be many days of sacrifice and hard work. It was also early in his life that there sprouted two loves in Lefty: his love for basketball and his love for the Lord. These loves taught him early that in order to get what was divinely meant for him, he had to be obedient and follow God’s will. It has been obedience to God and the favor of God over his life that has carried Lefty. Lefty credits who he is today to the many growing pains he has faced in life. From his younger brother’s fight with seizures resulting in a coma, to his mother’s triumph over ovarian cancer, to his wife’s fight for her life after a miscarriage, Lefty has learned the importance of holding on to the promises of God. Accomplishing much in his basketball career such as scoring of his 1000 points and 985 rebounds in high school in only three years of varsity basketball, earning defensive player of the year twice during college, and signing a professional contract after attending a Division 3 school (which many deemed impossible); Lefty proclaims one of his defining moments was being asked to join the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters! He made Globetrotter history by becoming the first left handed showman to sign with the team. After his departure from the Globetrotters, ESPN, the world’s largest sports network, called his trade “from the losingest team of all time to the winningest team of all time… a deal straight out of Ripleys Believe it or Not” The article by Tom Friend, gave the world a glimpse of the story about the man that is Harold “Lefty” Williams. Off the basketball court, Lefty found great inspiration from his maternal grandfather Thomas Williams. Because of his grandfather, Lefty has tried to live his life in such a way that it would be motivational to all who crossed his path. His desire to live such a life started with his experiences as a peer educator in his home town of Jersey City, NJ. and has transcended itself in his role as a husband and father. Lefty has often said that Shyneefa, his wife and childhood friend, is one of the reasons that he is who he is today. She has shared in both his failures and triumphs, walking along side him through it all. Through her, God has gifted Lefty his daughter, Kiara and his son, Elisha; both whom Lefty calls shinning stars in his life. It is his family, that Lefty often says is the reason he does what he continues to do. His desires to motivate are also visible from his travels to 24 countries around the world as a professional basketball player, in his music, as a motivational speaker as well as in his current position as a youth pastor. HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Working hard to be successful is something Lefty continues to strive for. When asked how did you get to be so successful he answered, “When preparation meets opportunity that equals success. You can’t take no for an answer. If I stopped working hard every time someone said no to me or when a door closed in my face I never would have made it. We must remember A Delay is Not a Denial” The game of basketball has opened up many windows of opportunity for Lefty. From television to radio to printed media, Lefty is no stranger to headlines. He has twice been featured in Black Athlete the Magazine as well as in ESPN, the world’s largest sports network. Whether speaking on local radio stations or interviewing for television shows to be aired around the world, Lefty knows the power of one’s words. Using his words to educate, motivate and uplift, Lefty uses his experience with the Globetrotters, as well as other professional teams, as a platform to reach the masses. Lefty continues to travel North America speaking on the topics that are most prominent in the area of which he is visiting. These topics range from alcohol & substance abuse, bullying, abstinence & pregnancy prevention to goal setting, time management, healthy living and so much more! In his travels, Lefty exhibits and teaches outstanding ball handling trick techniques and various ball handling drills. One of the things he enjoys most is his Dare 2 Dream Basketball Camp, which teaches kids based on his 6 point programatic thrust. These points are: mind, body soul, education, accountability/determination and enthusiasim. Henry Ford once said “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” This is what Lefty holds at the core of everything he does with the youth! Lefty enjoyed his 7 year professional career, which included his time as a Harlem Globetrotter, and still considers his self an Ambassador of good will. Websites: www.leftywilliams.org http://www.harlemdreams.net/ www.twitter.com/leftywilliams42 www.facebook.com/leftywilliams42 www.instagram.com/leftywilliams42 https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/harold-lefty-williams/id514597131
International Speaker, Author & Mr. America Tom Terwilliger
2020 Tom & Dawn Terwilliger https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-19-UCWRadio_TomDawnTerwilliger_11182020.mp3 2015 Tom Terwilliger https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-08_tomterwilliger_interviewucw.mp3 If there has ever been an ambassador for fitness and healthy living, it would be #1 bestselling author, international speaker, and former Mr. America, Tom Terwilliger. Tom has spent the past 30 years practicing, advocating and preaching the benefits of exercise and performance living. Known as “The Achievement Mentor” Tom Terwilliger is a leading authority on the Science of Achievement. The one time New York health club owner now president of Coaching Leadership Excellence has had the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with countless individuals seeking guidance, motivation and leadership. Celebrities such as Regis Philbin, Cindy Crawford, Eddie Murphy, Gregory Hines, Ted Lange, Howard Stern and others have experienced the benefits of training one-on-one with Tom. For sixteen years Tom hosted and co-directed and produced the nationally syndicated cable television show, MuscleSport USA on FOX Network which earned him a prestigious Telly Award in 2001. Tom also hosted and co-produced with his wife and fitness model, Dawn Terwilliger (Mrs. Metropolitan 2009), the One On One with Terwilliger Fitness talk radio show on AM 760 and hosted the fitness segment on News Radio 850 KOA that aired in the Rocky Mountain region for six years. In his efforts to reach one-on-many, Tom spends a good deal if his time traveling North America, Europe and Asia teaching his lifestyle techniques and conscious Leap of Faith process. Tom’s unique and inspiring story of pulling himself from the world of drug and alcohol abusing outlaw biker to National Bodybuilding Champion (Mr. America) and high achiever has inspired countless others to reach for their own limitless potential. International speaker, radio talk show personality, TV show host, entrepreneur and author; Tom is a maven of media. His book, 7 Rules of Achievement was a finalist for the 2010 Ethan Award – honoring entrepreneurial authors. Websites: www.tomterwilliger.com www.twitter.com/tomterwilliger www.facebook.com/tomterwilligernow www.youtube.com/tomterwilliger
Actress and Recording Artist Nina Bergman
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-07_ninabergman_interviewucw.mp3 Nina Bergman is an actress, singer, songwriter and model. She was born in Denmark and is the granddaughter of Russian actor Pavel Kadochnikov. Nina spent her early childhood traveling around Europe with her Russian Gypsy grandparents. After her parents divorced she lived with various family members. At 14 she received a scholarship to the musical theatre school Urdang Acedemy in London. A year later she found herself in Moscow attending the Bolshoi Theatre. From there she went to NYC and got accepted to NYU- TISH School of the Arts studying musical theatre. She got her first agent and began booking various jobs in plays, movies, commercials, modeling and also started singing in underground bands. Being an adrenaline junkie, she found herself making extra money as an amateur boxer which later on helped her book Wonder Woman directed by Jesse V Johnson starring Timothy V Murphy and Marina Sirtis. She also played a cold hearted killer in The Wayshower starring Peter Stormare and Eric Roberts. Her other work in LA includes starring opposite actors like John Malkovich, David Arquette, Vivica Fox, Jesse Metcalfe. She has done numerous skits on “The Late Late show”, “The Tonight Show” and hosting various shows like “E!Entertainment”, “Fuse”, and The Grammys as Trophy Girl. Her reality show credits include: Battleground Earth with Tommy Lee and Ludacris and Hollywoodfruer the Danish acclaimed TV show. A passion for the stage drew her back to her roots as she performed in various plays such as The Cherry Orchard with A Noise Within and her favorite, the portrayal of Marlene Dietrich. Her theatrical agent introduced her to Paul Anka who shortly after began managing her music career and helped her sign a 6 album contract to Warner Bros Record with Rob Cavallo. They called her new solo project N.I.N.A. Previously she released an EP with her band “Dead Rose Beauty” and toured with acts like Meat Loaf and Scorpions and several others. She worked on soundtracks for Lions Gates Movies singing the theme song for “Catacombs” and “Repo the Genetic Opera”. She sang the end title song in “Black Limousine” and was the voice on the soundtrack for “All about Her”. Additionally, she performed live for the World Series and the NCAA College Football Season. Music Videos: She starred in Gnarls Barkley’s video “Gone Daddy Gone”, Sick Puppies video “All the Same” and Trey Sonz “Foreigner” Print ads and Commercials She has been seen in over 30 commercials and hundreds of print campaigns. Ranging from La Perla to Apple Computer, Sprite, Nike and her well known Nature Valley and Dos Equis with the Most Interesting Man in the World. Websites: www.ninabergman.com www.n-i-n-a.com www.twitter.com/ninabergman www.facebook.com/ninabergman www.tumblr.com/ninabergman www.instagram.com/ninabergman
Fitness Pro & Denver Nuggets Strength Coach Steve Hess
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-03_stevehess_interviewucw.mp3 Keeping the Nuggets in top physical shape is the job of Steve Hess, the team’s assistant coach/strength and conditioning. Hess oversees the team’s weight training, conditioning and nutritional programs. He designed and arranged the Nuggets’ weight room in the Pepsi Center and also designed functional pieces unique to the Denver Nuggets. In his 19th season with the Nuggets, Hess creates and administers individual workout programs for each player throughout the entire year. He spends the majority of the off-season working with Nugget players and other professional athletes, overseeing every aspect of their workout programs. He pushes them to reach their peak physical condition. Hess is one of six trainers worldwide who sits on the Under Armour training council. He also sits on the advisory board for both Mancakes high-Protein Pancake mix and Crosscore 180 Rotational Bodyweight Training System. In addition, Hess has been featured on NBA Inside Stuff, All-Access with Ahmad Rashad, NBATV and The Eating Network. He also has his own workout segment on the Altitude Sports & Entertainment network. A graduate of Ithaca College (N.Y.), Hess received a master’s degree in physical education with an emphasis on sports medicine and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science fitness and cardiac rehabilitation in ’91. Hess became a Muscle Activation Techniques (M.A.T) specialist in 2013 and just completed his M.A.T mastery certification in 2015. Follow Steve Hess: www.twitter.com/stevehess1 www.instagram.com/steve13hess
Model, Actress and Filmmaker Deborah Funes
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-07-02_deborahfunes_interviewucw.mp3 Deborah was born in Argentina. She had her first experiences in modeling and acting at the age of six. Ten years later, she performed as a singer in a concert and swimwear model in fashion shows.A gifted student, she also pursued opportunities as a creative painter and promotional model for big brands like Coca Cola, Benetton,etc. She also appeared for first time as a performer in a top TV show called “The Show of Tinelli”. Deborah graduated with a Teacher’s degree and soon after, she started a career in Advertising. During university she was involve in production of TV Commercials and music videos. However, the world of acting and film making were always in her heart and she developed her capacities from acting to directing and producing, molding an integral professional. After she graduated from the American University John F. Kennedy, Deborah moved to Miami FL. Few months after her arrival, she was approached by an Italian company to be their exclusive lingerie model providing her with great exposure in the US. Soon thereafter she began appearing in videos and TV commercials for “MTV”, “Playboy TV” and Latin American TV Shows. In 2005, the original Baywatch producers chose her from hundreds of models for a pilot TV series.This experience was the beginning of her acting career in the American market. In 2007, she had supporting roles in many short films and her first feature film called “Scream Farm”. Since then, Deborah has been performing as lead and supporting actress in many feature films and TV series of all type of genres. Portrayed characters from different nationalities like Russian, Italian, Swedish, German and Latin. Her credits exemplify her versatility and they include: “Wisp” (2013), “Jebadiah’s Axe” (2013), “Disciples” (2014), “Bikini Swamp Girl Massacre”(2014), “You Found Me” (2015) and many others. Today beside acting and modeling she is also writing and producing her own feature films. Projects that she had in mind for a long time. Web Links: Official Website: www.deborahfunes.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/DEBORAH-FUNES/74850451356?fref=tsTWITTER: https://twitter.com/DeborahActressINSTAGRAM:https://instagram.com/deborahfunes/
IFBB Women’s Physique Pro Karina Nascimento
Karina Nascimento is a Brazilian born bodybuilder / fitness model turned physique competitor. She moved to Texas in 1986 and that is where her love for bodybuilding started at the age of 16. Running track and playing volleyball made her want to be more defined and want to change her body from the average look. After many endeavors in her childhood, she decided to change her life completely and soon met her first trainer, Herman Steele, in Arlington, Texas. He changed her body into a work of art. Soon she started to win overall championships in bodybuilding shows. Karina loved the challenge of working out and competing. After such a successful amateur career, Karina went back to Brazil and was awarded her Pro Card by Brazilian IFBB President, Alexander Pagnani. Karina loves representing both Brazil and the United States in bodybuilding. In 2003, Karina was invited to compete in the prestigious Ms. International, the ladies’ event competition at the Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic. As a rookie, she placed an incredible third place, beating several highly ranked professional bodybuilders. Her career sky-rocketed. Even though Karina loves bodybuilding, she is at heart a “fashion girl.” This motivated her to pursue a fitness and modeling career rather than the hardcore bodybuilding path. She met her husband at that time and decided to enter the figure division in the IFBB. For the next seven years, Karina devoted herself to being a great mom. She has three children: Kristina (7), Teddy (5), and Gabriella (2). Now she is ready to compete again; this time in the women’s physique division. With her great looks and well honed physique, she will be certainly be at the top of the field for a long time to come. See more of Karina at karinabrazilpro.com
Frankie aka Future Legend: The Story Behind the Brand
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_futurelegend_interviewucw.mp3 This is the story of not just a Clothing Brand but a movement, Frankie aka Future Legend shares with us the background of the creation of Underground Clown and its subsequent best selling brand Future Legend. He started the Underground Clown brand in 2008 in honor of his dear friend Cory Pelzer who was murdered in 2001. Cory was shot on a crowded NYC bus on his way home from work at the Kings Plaza Mall in Brooklyn, to this day his murder goes unsolved and cold, thru the UGC Clothing brand he pays Homage to his friend and donates all the profits from sales to various charities. The creation of “FUTURE LEGEND” was just an idea he had and he put a simple shirt together in distressed font that said Future Legend. The shirt would just always sellout, Pro Boxer Paulie Malignaggi and Frankie met through a mutual friend in 2009 and gave him the chance to tell him the story behind the brand and Paul has worn the shirt through numerous Title wins and defenses since then. They are now the best of friends and business partners along with former UFC and current Bellator MMA fighter Phil Baroni, they are all inspired to do good give back and make a difference through the success of their brand. For more information : www.futurelegend.co www.futurelegend.com www.twitter.com/1futurelegend www.twitter.com/theugc
Comedian Rocky LaPorte: NBC’s Last Comic Standing
Rocky LaPorte’s appeal comes from his everyman, streetwise style of comedy. Delivering laughs in his trademark Brooklyn accent, he has become one of the most sought after comedians in the country, and he is currently appearing on the new season of NBC’s Last Comic Standing! A former Chicago truck driver and dock worker, Rocky has accumulated a slew of performances throughout his career, including being a featured comic on Showtime‘s The Godfathers of Comedy, a special starring five of America’s most hilarious Italian-American comics. On the big screen, he has been seen in two Tim Allen movies – Crazy on the Outside and The Shaggy Dog. Rocky traveled with Drew Carey to Iraq to entertain the troops and was seen on the Showtime special Patriot Act: A Jeffrey Ross Home Movie. Rocky has filmed his own Comedy Central Presents special and wasvoted the network’s second most popular comedian in a nationwide poll. He has performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and appeared on A&E‘s Evening At The Improv and VH1‘s Stand-Up Spotlight, along with sitcom appearances on Cheers and his own NBC pilot called the Rocky LaPorte Show. Rocky has opened for the likes of Garry Shandling, Drew Carey, Tim Allen, Louie Anderson, Hootie and the Blowfish and the Righteous Brothers, just to name a few, and his clean, blue-collar style of comedy continues to increase in popularity as he travels the country. “Rocky is a talented comedian, he’s a natural, I see him having his own sitcom on one of the major networks in the near future, he has that something extra that pulls in a broad audience and will have longevity,” – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.rockylaporte.com www.twitter.com/rockylaporte
Comedian Actor, Write Dante “The Comic”
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_dantethecomic_interviewucw.mp3 When he was a kid growing up in Ridgecrest, CA, Dante knew he wanted to be a comedian.. Dante is now one of the top headlining comedians in the United States, appearing on numerous television shows and in films, and appearing to sold-out crowds across the country, as well as making regular stops each year at U.S. military bases around the world, entertaining the troops in every branch of the Armed Forces. He has performed for the US troops more than any other comedian since Bob Hope. Dante has been a comedian since 1986. Most people know him as a cast member on season 5 of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. On Last Comic Standing he received every audience favorite award and got the first standing ovation at the Semi-finals. He has been honored as the recipient of several comedy awards, including the $10,000 grand prize on America’s Funniest People on ABC; he also still holds the record for winning the most comedy awards ever presented to a single comedian at the BET Comedy Awards. Dante was even the winner of Los Angeles’ “Funniest Black Comic in LA” award… we’re still not sure how he even qualified for that one! Beginning his career in San Diego at the La Jolla Comedy Store, Dante has since made a name for himself as one of the few comedians working today who are able to cross over to any crowd and still be just as funny. He is the rare sort of performer who can perform at an urban comedy club, do another set in front of a Latino crowd later that evening, and then still bring down the house at a Beverly Hills country club benefit show after that, all in the same night… and he has! While he travels across the country, as well as abroad, today Dante calls Los Angeles his home, where you can catch him regularly at The Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. In his comedy journey, Dante has had the honor and pleasure of working with some of the greats in the entertainment business, including Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Milton Berle, BB King, Santana & Macy Grey… as well as Weird Al Yankovich (who may or may not qualify as one of the “greats” – but he IS a heck of a lot of fun!). Dante can be seen in Byron Allan’s ENTERTAINERS as well as in the book I KILLED. He co-wrote and co-produced the Schticky Commercial and the movie The InAPPropriate Comedy for Vince Offer The Shamwow guy. He produced the The Gay List Comedy DVD and Dante’s One Man Comedy Hour. He is a writer for E! Fashion Police. With his sold-out club shows & recent television appearances, as well as his almost nightly standing ovations, Dante is one act that’s hard to miss! “Dante is one of those comedic talents that is multifaceted , I guess more of a triple threat, not only is his funny but he is an actor and is a screenplay writer but that’s not all you will find him directing and behind the camera as well, he is one definite entertainer to keep an eye out for as he expands his horizons, – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.dantethecomic.com www.twitter.com/dantethecomic
Co-Host of Lords of the Car Hoards Chuck Palumbo
Chuck Palumbo’s life as a motorcycle and car builder began in Providence, Rhode Island at the age of 5, helping his father replace the 3.5 horsepower motor in his mini bike with a 5 horse Tecumseh. At 6’ 6”, 280 pounds, Chuck’s size and drive to be the best took him from the Navy to a college basketball scholarship to becoming a six-time World Tag Team Champion in professional wrestling in the WWE and WCW. Throughout his career, Chuck has never lost his passion for building, and in 2005 he opened CP Kustoms to work on bikes and cars during his free time from wrestling. When he retired from wrestling in 2008, he made CP Kustoms his full time business. As a self-professed “motorcycle and muscle car addict” living in the San Diego area, it was only a matter of time before Chuck crossed paths with hot rod legend Rick Dore; together in 2013, they launched SLAM. Chuck shares Rick’s passion for classic rides and fanatical attention to detail. “I pride myself on being a craftsman. One man, one set of hands.” “Chuck is one of those guys that is not only looking to do good for himself but if he can do good for others that motivates him even more, his TV career is just warming up and I personally see ‘Lords of the Car Hoards’ as a catapult to some much greater things”, – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Websites: www.cpkustoms.com www.twitter.com/chuckpalumbo
The Healthy Irishman, Chef Gavan Murphy
About Chef Gavan Murphy in his own words. My name is Gavan Murphy. I am a chef specializing in healthy cuisine and this is my story: I hail from the Emerald Isle, land of greenery, sheep, pubs and Guinness. Currently I live in Los Angeles, land of sunshine, traffic, movie stars and paparazzi. I’m most often asked what the #*%! does an Irish guy know about food, let alone healthy food? Had I been asked that as a kid I wouldn’t have had a clue, except for the fact that I just loved food. I pretty much ate all I was given plus anything else I could get my hands on, especially anything that was sugary and sweet. I didn’t grow up on fast food as the kids do now-a-days, nor did I grow up in restaurants. I grew up around the dinner table eating Mum’s creations. My Mum cooked the typical Irish fare of meat and potatoes every night, yet that was not the problem. The problem came in the form of cakes, biscuits, sweets and fizzy drinks, all of which were accessible in and around school. All of those sweets made me a chunky monkey. And to top it off I wasn’t into exercise and sports. It wasn’t so much that I was lazy, I just really didn’t want to have to get changed in front of others. I was embarrassed. I was the guy hiding in the toilets during P.E. class or the one wearing a T-shirt in the pool. Being a teenager is tough enough, being a tubby teenager is no picnic. Moving swiftly on. I became more aware of the type of food I was eating once I got into my mid-teens because I actually started playing sports and in conjunction with eating better, I began losing the weight. My love for food never dissipated, yet thankfully my sweet tooth did. Instead I began developing a new appreciation for eating proper food, which kept with me through my college years in Dublin. After college I headed off to Martha’s Vineyard for the summer where I got my first restaurant job washing dishes. I loved it. The hustle and bustle of the kitchen was electrifying. I worked hard but the chefs worked harder. I knew just from watching them that was what I wanted to do. Upon my return to Ireland I wasted no time and headed to the lush countryside of Cork to train at the infamous Ballymaloe Cookery School. Situated in the middle of a 100 acre farm, half of which is organic today, Ballymaloe was a pioneer in sustainable cooking. What was grown on the farm and what was locally reared is what we used in our cooking and what we ate. I learned the importance of eating fresh, farm to table food and the importance of using quality ingredients including meats. Pairing this knowledge with the way I grew up eating (I’m talking proper homemade food eaten at the dinner table NOT including the sugary stuff) is where my style and flavour were born. In 2000, after working in restaurants throughout Ireland and London, my journey landed me across the pond to sunny California–I couldn’t handle anymore of the Irish winters! Los Angeles, being the mecca of health and fitness (I saw that at Gold’s Gym) was the perfect destination to continue my career in healthy cooking. I began working for a number of prestigious L.A. based catering companies and was hired as a consulting chef on the Body-for-Life Program for EAS, a multinational sports and nutrition company. At that time Cindy Crawford was following the BFL food program so guess who was hired to be her personal chef cooking healthy nutritious meals? That would be me. Timing couldn’t have been better. With that experience under my belt I ultimately transitioned into working as a full time personal chef specializing in cooking healthy meals. I was fortunate enough to find true love at my local pub (I might be healthy but I am Irish!) and boy did I get lucky. Not only did I find a great missus but I also gained a great business partner. We started out with a small food blog called–wait for it–The Healthy Irishman (cheeky but spot on) showcasing healthy recipes. That idea snowballed into The Healthy Irishman, Inc., our stellar catering company here in tinsel town, which I’m very proud to be a part of with my missus. I’m also proud to say my recipes have been published in books and magazines and I’m a regular contributor to other websites. You name it, I do it, all in the sake of healthy eating. And I still find time to provide recipes for our blog, which is now a part of this site. Not too shabby for a small town Irishman! Of course I have bigger goals but my focus and passion remain the same with everything I do: to show people that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated and healthy food doesn’t mean bland or boring. We’re advocates of buying local, seasonal and sustainable foods and I encourage people to get away from the convenient “out of a box” food and to get back to the basics of home cooking. As far as I’m concerned, it doesn’t have to be flashy, just damn tasty! And that’s what an Irishman knows about healthy food. Websites: www.gavanmurphy.com www.twitter.com/healthyirishman
Book Illustrator Ashley Teets
Award-winning author and illustrator Ashley Teets is a 2012 summa cum laude graduate of Alderson-Broaddus College where she earned a B.F.A focusing on visual art with a minor in creative writing. After completing two semesters of graduate work at West Virginia University Ashley continued her graduate study through the Simmons College satellite graduate program at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts. She has illustrated multiple award winning children’s books that include five Mom’s Choice Awards, an Indie Book and an Indie Excellence Award, an International Book Award, a USA News Best Book Award and Creative Child Magazine Awards. Ashley is also a portrait artist and muralist. Websites: http://headlinebooks.com/http://www.headlinekids.com/http://www.amazon.com/The-Adventures-Penny-Tubs-Waterfall/dp/0938467980/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1404858944&sr=8-6&keywords=Penny+and+tubs www.ashleyteetsillustration.com
Recording Artist/Actress DiLee
Di Lee is a media artist in Los Angeles, California. Her strong sense of culture and heritage comes from being a half Chinese, and half Italian, American. She hopes that her music and poetry bring together and transcend all cultural & national borders in the celebration of this beautiful thing called life, that we all share together around the world. Di Lee is from a close knit family and says she has an eastern way of thinking. Taking lines from her original poetry she then began writing and producing music and is now combining fashion, photo-art, music and acting into a cohesive and creative package. To Di Lee, being a positive role model is a responsibility she takes seriously. Part of that responsibility is admitting you are human and touching peoples’ lives. Di Lee stands for goodness, equality, love, and describes herself as a soft warrior. Being a soft warrior to her means she can show compassion and love, but also is able to stand up and fight for what she believes in. Websites: www.dileemusic.com www.dilee.tv
Rising Star: The Artist Borbay
2020 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-09-UCWRadio_Borbay_11092020.mp3 2014 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_borbay_interviewucw.mp3 Borbay is a self-represented artist, living and thriving in the vibrant city of Manhattan. Collected globally and featured by an impressive breadth of revered news outlets, Borbay has created a successful business model outside of the ‘art world’ you read about. Time Out New York named him their Most Creative New Yorker. On June 4, 2014 — Zack O’Malley Greenburg’s second book, “Michael Jackson, Inc.” (Simon & Schuster, Atria) launched and rocketed to #1 on Amazon in Business and Leadership — Borbay painted the cover. He defaced Andy Warhol’s Marilyn and Major League Baseball hung it up in their Fan Cave. He knew Forbes’ Hip Hop Cash Kings list before Forbes did. His collages incorporating New York Post headlines became a New York Post headline. He’s painting the Guggenheim each year for 20 years, and intends to show the series in the Guggenheim itself. Borbay is being celebrated by everyone from BBC World to the Wall Street Journal Japan. Borbay’s creations, with their chasm-deep detail and painstaking process, have garnered the artist a large following from Manhattan to Milan, and his Warhol-esque willingness to mine pop imagery has earned the admiration of fans, educators and celebrities alike. With a pre-art résumé that includes everything from advertising to Reality TV (to, yes, working for Donald Trump), it’s no wonder that he’s lauded as one of the most game changing players emerging in the contemporary art scene. Borbay lives in Gramercy with his beloved Wife Erin and Daughter Coraline. Websites: www.borbay.com https://www.instagram.com/borbay 2021 Interview
The Toughest Nerd in MMA, Kickboxer Maureen “BABY FACE” Riordon
Maureen “Baby Face” Riordon began training in January of 2010 when she joined FusBoxe Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness in Westminster, Colorado. She did not have any athletic experience when she started out, but found herself in her first grappling tournament only three short months later. she became addicted to the sport at once and went on to claim seven gold medals in the next six months, and took both first and second place in nationally ranked tournaments. After numerous fights falling through for every reason under the sun, her first fight finally came through for her in June of 2011 for Ring of Fire’s Muay Thai Mayhem against Allison Lantz. Since then she has had ten amateur fights in total, ranging across MMA, kickboxing, boxing, and Sanda and she made her professional kickboxing debut May 3rd for Glory Sports Internationa. In March 2014 she signed a multi-fight deal with RFA: Resurrection Fighting Alliance where she will be making her professional MMA debut later this summer! “Maureen is the toughest nerd in MMA, she brings intelect, courage, skills and a goal to keep giving back to the community, using her mma fame to help bring attention to TEAM BABY FACE. You have to love the dedication in more ways than one. I do see her becoming a true force in the world of female kickboxing and mma so keep an eye on this rising star.” – Louis Velazquez – UCW Radio Show Host For more information : www.maureenriordonmma.com www.twitter.com/babyfacemma www.facebook.com/maureenbabyfaceriordon www.instagram.com/babyfacemma
Invicta Fighting Championships Co-Founder & CEO Shannon Knapp
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_shannonknapp_interviewucw.mp3 “If Dana White is the undisputed KING of the world of MMA then hands down Invicta Fighting Championships CEO Shannon Knapp is the QUEEN. She has done what no other person had the vision nor nerve to do and just 2 1/2 years later Shannon has made a big statement as well as her mark on the world of MMA. In my opinion I see Invicta FC as being the female fighter equivalent to the UFC and I see Shannon Knapp as being the second most important person on the frontline of the MMA world.” – Louis Velazquez , UCW Radio Show Host. Invicta Fighting Championships is a world championship All Pro Women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp. Invicta FC is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible match-ups between female competitors, identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. For more information : www.invictafc.com www.twitter.com/invictafights www.facebook.com/invictafights www.youtube.com/user/invictafc UFC Fight Pass: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass
Action Film Star Olivier Gruner
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_oliviergruner_interviewucw.mp3 Following his graduation from the rugged training of the French Special Forces (similar to the U.S. Navy SEALS), former soldier-turned-action star Olivier Gruner applied the skills he had developed while in uniform both to an extensive list of dynamic screen roles and the intense preparation for the look and the moves each one has required along the way. Gruner joined his country’s elite Special Forces Commando Marines when he was only 17 years old. “They taught us to never give up, no matter what,” he recalls. “They put us through intense training courses; there’s a lot of selection – only one in a thousand guys makes it,” he observed at the end of the Nineties when we caught up with him about his career. Using Combat Skills to Break Through into Screen Career During his two years of commando service, Gruner acquired a formal knowledge of martial arts and hand-to-hand combat. “It’s easy to have a gun and just to shoot people,” he points out. “I was more impressed with what you could do with your bare hands.” Early on, physical training follows a fairly conventional routine for the French servicemen: “Running, back-packing, push-ups, rope work, martial arts,” he recalls as all part of the regimen. Soon however, the conditioning turns extreme as each soldier must develop the ability to handle both the unfamiliar and the near impossible. After completing his military service, Gruner continued to pursue more training in the martial arts, first in the south of France for a year, before moving on to Switzerland. Then he returned to his homeland once again to study kickboxing. His interest finally brought him to the States during the early Eighties. With his existing martial arts experience, he wanted to also learn boxing and combine the two skills to become strong kickboxer. Making the Transformation to Onscreen Action His dedication eventually paid off when he twice won his country’s national kickboxing championships by the mid-Eighties. By this time he was also intent on building a career in the world of action movies – a journey that began with a kickboxing poster he had on display at the Cannes Film Festival in 1989. It was seen by a film producer who arranged a casting meeting for Gruner in Los Angeles. Gruner was soon given the lead role in a low-budget, nonstop action movie called Angel Town, set on the rough side of L.A. It went over well with martial arts moviegoers world-wide and earned him an extended contract with the film’s producers. His second appearance came in the futuristic thriller, Nemesis, playing a part-human, part-cybersynthetic L.A.P.D. agent. Gruner’s screen roles in the years since have usually required him to demonstrate a variety of physical skills, and to be in peak condition. Following Nemesis, he took on another futuristic role in Automatic, as a slightly defective prototype cyborg. Next, he learned to ride English saddle as a French cavalry officer in Savate, an historical adventure drama set in the American Southwest. These days, as an established action star Gruner remains as dedicated to his training regimen as in his earlier days in America. He likes to drive over to Venice to train six days a week whenever he is at home – a routine that might sound easy and fun, but is actually grueling as far as the demands he puts on both his physical and mental endurance levels to achieve the optimum look and fitness conditioning for an upcoming screen role. One past role, for instance, was the lead character of a backwoodsman in the sci-fi thriller Savage. His training for this began at dawn, with 40 minutes on the life cycle or treadmill. Then he would let his trainer take over, pushing him through another two hours of chest and triceps training on Mondays; legs, calves and abs on Tuesdays; back and biceps on Thursdays; and shoulders and lower body on Fridays. Deriving the Maximum Results from Balanced Training For maximum benefits, Gruner maintains total concentration during both the extension and contraction of each weight movement. “We go to failure of the muscle. My trainer has me work both the positive and the negative. For instance, when you perform curls, make sure your biceps are contracted both on the way up and on the way down. This makes it harder because you don’t have time to relax. If you do 10 reps on the first set in this fashion, you’re going to make the muscle feel like you performed 20 because you’re making sure that the negative movement is still contracting the muscle.” On his days away from the weights he likes to do cardio – taking advantage of the diversity of the southern California landscape: “I do some running and sometimes hiking just to relax. I also kayak and I go skiing.” Having put himself through the most demanding preparation for multiple action roles, Olivier Gruner has become a firm believer in what can be achieved by following a routine built on stamina and self-discipline. “It’s amazing what you can do with the right training and understanding of what you’re going to do, with the food you put inside your body and the changes that you’re able to make from that,” he concludes. “If somebody tells you that you can’t do it, don’t believe them. If you follow what your nutritionist or trainer tells you to do, then you will achieve results, no matter what – and without taking any drugs, either.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJDqtD3Z4jY For more information : www.oliviergruner.com https://twitter.com/ogruner http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0344603/ Get The Pro MMA Training App on iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-pros-mma/id525210047?mt=8
Acclaimed Actor Dennis Christopher
Award-winning actor, Dennis Christopher, stars as Leonide Moguy in Django Unchained, Quentin Tarantino’s action epic set in the antebellum American South, about a ruthless bounty hunter and the slave he promises to free upon capturing their quarry. The film, also starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, Jamie Foxx, Samuel L. Jackson and Kurt Russell, is set for release on Christmas Day, 2012. Christopher portrays the lawyer to DiCaprio’s Calvin Candie, the owner of a plantation where slaves are forced to fight one another. Into this world enters bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz (Waltz) and his slave Django (Foxx), whose ultimate goal is to find and free his still enslaved wife. Throughout his career, Christopher has had the good fortune of working with many a legendary film director. In addition to Tarantino, Christopher has worked with Federico Fellini (Roma), Robert Altman (3 Women and A Wedding), Hugh Hudson (Academy Award winning Best Picture, Chariots of Fire), Peter Werner (Don’t Cry, It’s Only Thunder) and Randall Kleiser (It’s My Party). He is perhaps best remembered for his role in Breaking Away, as the idealistic cyclist Dave Stoller, a working class boy who fantasizes about being an Italian bike racer, and looks forward to the day when an international race will bring excitement to his boring hometown. The film, also starring Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern and Paul Dooley, was the sleeper hit of 1979. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award, a British Academy of Film and Television Award (BAFTA) and a Youth in Film Award. His other motion picture credits include Trapped, Mind Lies, Circuitry Man and Circuitry Man II, A Sinful Life and Jake Speed, among others. Aside from Django Unchained, Christopher is no stranger to period dramas, having been featured in the final season of HBO’s Deadwood, a re-working of the traditional Western. His othertelevision series credits include starring as Jack of all Trades in Profiler and recurring roles in Roswell and Kate Brasher. He has guest starred in series such as Six Feet Under, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Crossing Jordan, among others. Mini-series and other long form credits include Stephen King’s It,Golden Dreams: The Ballad of Lucy Whipple, Natural Enemies, Curaçao and Willing to Kill: The Texas Cheerleader Story. Christopher starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor in the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of The Little Foxes. His other performances on the New York stage include originating the starring role in Retribution, and in Brothers with Carroll O’Connor. His stage accolades include both the L.A. Drama Critics Award for Lead Performance, Drama-Logue Award for Best Actor and L.A. Weekly Award for his portrayal of WWII code breaker Alan Turing in the West Coast premiere of Breaking the Code. He received two other Drama-Logue Awards for his performances in Balm in Gilead and American Buffalo. He has also starred in the Pasadena Playhouse’s production of Side Man and, more recently, the Unknown Theatre’s production of Grand Motel. Additional Off-Broadway and regional credits include Elegies: For Angels, Punks and Raging Queens, The Slab Boys, A Pound on Demand, Summer and Smoke, Butterflies Are Free, and he originated the title role in Yentl: the Yeshiva Boy. “Dennis Christopher is not only a gem in the world of Hollywood but he is also as humble as they come, it was an honor and pleasure to have the opportunity to have him on the UCW Radio Show just prior to the theatrical release of the Golden Globe nominated film “Django Unchained” director by another Hollywood great in Quentin Tarantino, I do look forward to having him on again as his career seems to get brighter every year,” stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.twitter.com/dennischristo04
“The Obama Girl” Model Amber Lee Ettinger
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_amberleeettinger_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have model Amber Lee Ettinger aka “The Obama Girl” on the show. About Amber in Her Own Words I started out in entertainment as a very young girl. Beauty pageants, dance recitals, theater, music lessons, chorus, gymnastics, cheerleading competitions, you name it! My first “real” modeling job came when I was about 15 yrs. old. I modeled for my mothers vintage clothing book entitled “Psychedelic Chic.” My mom has and always will be my biggest inspiration in life. A vintage clothing and antique jewelry collector of over 30 years, owning stores and writing books on all her treasured collectibles. I traveled around with her from store to store and state to state. My Dad was in the military, so I guess you can call me an Army Brat! I learned a lot about fashion growing up, so I guess that’s why I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer at the age of 13. Getting accepted into The Fashion Institute of Technology may have been one of the happiest days of my life! So I leave my small town of Hazleton Pennsylvania and pack my bags to head to New York City. While attending FIT and studying Fashion Design, I got approached to do acting and modeling jobs. I focused on getting my degree and pursuing acting/modeling once I graduated. And that’s exactly what I did! My favorite part of it all is the traveling and just doing something new every day. A little over a year ago I shot a video for a presidential candidate, Barack Obama. That video “Crush on Obama” opened many doors for me and brought me to many places I had never even dreamed of going! “There is more to Amber than meets the eye, the Obama skit got her worldwide exposure but she has no desire to be pigeon holed into that image. So from modeling to going to a true acting school this girl with a business mind has her sights on bigger things on the Hollywood scene, so watch out as you just may see Amber Lee Ettinger in a serious tv/film role in the very near future, I gotta hunch…” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.Amberleeonline.com www.facebook.com/amberleeonline www.Twitter.com/Amberettinger www.youtube.com/2girls2minutes www.myspace.com/InspiredbyAmber
IFBB Bikini Pro & Gaspari Nutrition Spokes Model Marzia Prince
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_marziaprince_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity and honor to have the inspirational IFBB Bikini Pro and Gaspari Nutrition Spokesperson Marzia Prince on the show. We had the unique opportunity to actually take a journey through the life of Marzia Prince, how a girl from Texas at the age of 30 had her life change just by taking a picture for her own collection. To hear about this amazing journey was just something that will throw you back and make you evaluate your life. Have you reached for your goals despite of your fears, are you actually living the best life that you can? these are questions that haunt us all but the story of Marzia Prince is a testament to success and that if you as a person want to achieve something all that you need to do is decide to do something about it. “Marzia is such a great person, she is just beginning to spread her wings in the fitness industry, by aligning with such great people as Rich & Liz Gaspari and Gaspari Nutrition, David Lyons from the Ultimate Body Reality Show and many others, she is destined for true greatness in her sport and in life, I was honored to have her on the show.” said Louis Velazquez host of The UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.marziaprince.com www.gasparinutrition.com www.theultimatebodytvshow.com http://www.myspace.com/marziaprince
National Figure Competitor/Fitness Model Allison Moyer
Allison Moyer is an NPC National level figure athlete, fitness, model, personal trainer, and nutritional consultant. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, Allison learned at an early age the importance of hard work, dedication, and commitment to one’s goals. She was raised in a very active and health conscious family and growing up was encouraged to participate in a variety of sports, including softball, soccer, field hockey, track and field, and cross country. Once Alli entered her college years, her focus shifted and she began to focus on her love of weight lifting and nutrition. At the young age of 19 she embarked on her first contest diet and by the age of 23 she had not only competed in her first show, but qualified for national status as well. To date, Alli has graced the national figure stage 4 times and continues to challenge herself both in and out of the industry. With a successful competitive and modeling career underneath her belt, Alli is now seeking to reach out to others with her belief in healthy, positive, and balanced living. Alli practices what she preaches and lives a healthy lifestyle to the fullest every single day. “I understand the importance of inspiring others, and helping them to feel the same empowerment and confidence through healthy living that I am blessed to receive every single day.” Unfortunately, in the sport of figure and fitness, many times simply winning a show or having a good physique is credential enough to warrant the term “trainer’ or “coach”. Allison’s approach to program design and implementation is based on client engagement, not client compliance. Building a plan to FIT with YOU is Allison’s primary goal. Successful, balanced, healthy living is about making dedicated lifestyle changes- look no further then Alli for the motivation to succeed!. FUN FACTS Full Name: Allison Moyer Nickname: Alli Occupation: Owner- Alli-Fitness Systems LLC; Nationally ranked NPC Figure Athlete; Professional Fitness Model Date of Birth: April 22 1984 Years Competing: 5 Height: 5’6″1/2 Weight: 135-140 off season, 125-130 pre contest Favorite Body Part to Train: Shoulders Favorite clean food: I love eating clean, and do so both on and off season! I love whole rolled oats,egg whites,sweet potato, salmon, organic ground buffalo, quinoa, raw unsalted almonds, walnuts, and cashews, and Ezekiel English Muffins. Lifestyle Philosophy: ” Life is about the choices we make, and consequently, the choices we choose not to make. Taking charge of your health and fitness is achoice- something you need to prioritize in order to get the results you want. I have a very “holistic” approach to the manner in which I handle my clients- I believe that coaching needs to encompass not only the physical, but the mental and emotional as well. I strive to not just give my clients a “diet” but to help rearrange the ways that they think about exercise and nutrition and provide them with the tools to make positive changes to their behaviors.” QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s Degree: Wellness and Sport Science Minor in Athletic Coaching ACE Personal Trainer ISSA Sport Nutrition Consultant Cert. Aerobics Instructor Nationally ranked NPC Figure Athlete Professional Fitness model
Reality Show Start Ashley – Rock of Love Bus & Charm School 3
Reality Show Star Ashley was one of the finalists from Charm School 3 hosted by Ricki Lake, this is a spinoff school showcasing the contestants of the Bret Michaels hit reality love show “Rock of Love Bus”, which Ashley was a contestant in as well. Ashley was a finalist on Charm School 3 and although lots have been said or featured about her online or in the reality TV show tabloids, maybe this interview will shed some light on the real Ashley and at the very least get some feedback on her future plans and appearances. Her fans need to know that she does not have an official Twitter Account, she does not Twitter so if you see anything out there then its a FAKE and report it. She does not have an official site and she only uses MySpace as a way to communicate with her fans, and here is her MySpace page: http://www.myspace.com/princesssmasher And YES it is really Ashley updating and replying, so support her, go to her appearances listed on MySpace, keep an eye on her as the right Reality TV Show situation may be coming around the corner if there is a smart producer in the house!!
Actress Elizabeth Ho
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_elizabethho_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the Actress Elizabeth Ho on the show. Actress Elizabeth Ho is turning up the heat on her career with appearances on the big and small screen this summer, including the CBS drama “Miami Medical,” a recurring role on the new ABC Family sitcom “Melissa and Joey,” and the award-winning indie short film, “KILO.” Up first, Ho faces a challenging road to recovery on an episode of the CBS hit series “Miami Medical,” titled “Medicine Man” airing July 2nd, 2010. After a serious bus accident, a young school teacher (Ho) is brought into the Miami Trauma medical facility where she wants to believe Dr. C (Mike Vogel) has all the answers to make her well. Beginning August 17th, Ho will premiere as a recurring character on the new Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Laurence sitcom, “Melissa and Joey,” for ABC Family. As the local Chief of Staff to City Councilperson Hailey Burke (Hart), Rhonda Cheng (Ho) never missed a beat or an opportunity to whisper her opinion in her boss’s ear. It’s when Rhonda gets dragged into Hailey’s private life as babysitter that she becomes a fish-out-of-water. Ho can also be seen in the award-winning indie short film, “KILO,” currently making the rounds on the festival circuit. When the underappreciated spitfire San Francisco Police Officer Min Lo (Ho) gets a chance to prove her worth and bust a drug dealer with a kilo of cocaine, she gets caught between becoming the department laughing stock and her need to do the ‘right’ thing. The film has been an official selection at numerous festivals, including The Indie Fest (award winner), Women’s International Film Festival Miami, Tiburoun International Film Festival and Palm Beach international Film Festival. Up next, the film will screen at the Burbank Film Festival, Manhattan Film Festival, Charlotte Film Festival, and Asian American International Film Festival. A California girl, Ho hails from a suburb near San Francisco and is a graduate from the University of Southern California’s prestigious Theater program. It didn’t take long for Hollywood to take notice and Ho to quickly establish herself as one-to-watch with numerous roles on network television shows including, “Castle,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “Grey’s Anatomy” among others. Elizabeth Ho is repped by Stone Manners Salners Agency (Agent); and Vincent Cirrincione & Associates (Management). For More About Elizabeth Ho visit: www.LizHo.com
Burlesque Performer/Dancer Sizzle Dizzle
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have burlesques dancer Sizzle Dizzle on the show. From Pennsylvania to New York to California now she is Brooklyn’s own Sizzle Dizzle, a name that brings a big smile to the face of many every year, is an unapologetic and a self described goofball, but in her mind is she made you smile then she did her job. Her forte is transporting the most zanny, sweet and sassy characters to life through dance, facial expressions and basic ass-make-age, her dearest wish is to make those watching hoot & holla! Entertaining is in this energized lady’s blood, having performed on both coasts of this great nation. Such venues include Public Assembly, Slipper Room, Niagara, Bar on A, Barrette, Union Hall, Identity, Rehab, Coney Island, Palace of Wonders, Hells’ Kitchen Lounge, M Bar, Fat Baby, and Los Angeles’s Sunset Striptacular, where she was crowned “Best Attack on the Audience!” Bursting with extraordinary enthusiasm and the thrill of a good laugh, Sizzle Dizzle hopes you enjoy the show and reminds you the second most contagious action is a smile…(the first is a yawn). Whoo hoo! Some of Sizzle Dizzle’s accomplishments OFF BROADWAY Holiday Kisses – Burlesque Dancer – La Mama, E.T.C. The Turner Project – Ensemble/Dance Captain – International Dance Festival Out of Water – Featured Dancer – Mazer Theatre THEATRE Hotsy Totsy: Bastard Keith Returns – Evil Bad Terrorist Guy – HT Productions Haunted – Dance Ensemble – NY Jazz Choreography Project The Four – Featured Dancer – Prospect Theatre Company They Walk Among Us – Corps de Ballet – Prospect Theatre Compny Tableau – Dancer – Ciona Taylor Productions West Side Story – Juanita/Dance Captain – Phillipsburg Theatre FILM Kara & Steve: Our Special Day – Lead – Bigger Baby Productions S.P.A.N.C.K. Tank – Supporting – Bigger Baby Productions Lover’s Quarry – Supporting – Bigger Baby Productions COMMERCIAL The Speckled Door – Female Office Employee – Creators Media Group, Inc. PRINT SPU: California Nights – Lita Fox – Red Skye Comics Feminine Grace – Model – Graham Postner, photographer Soldier and Widow – Widow – Mick Cantarella, photographer Live Shows Foreign Islands Live Concert – Dancer – Childs Restaurant Landmark Kitty Nights Burlesque – Dancer – Bar on A Starshine Burlesque – Dancer – Lucky Chengs Monday Night Burlesque – Dancer – Public Assembly Sugar Shack Burlesque – Dancer – Niagra Bar RECORDING Carols for a Cure: 2001 – Singer – Rock-It-Science! Recordings TEACHING Lighthouse Dance Project – Musical Theatre/Fosse Instructor – Mary Posini Broadway Dance Center – Fosse Instructor/Assistant – Amanda Turner TRAINING Marymount Manhattan College: BA in Theatre Arts: Design & Technical Productions Focus DANCE: Ballet, Burlesque, Fosse, Jazz, Modern, Musical Theatre, Pointe ACTING: Angie Montalbano (on-camera technique) Rod Gilkeson Jaime Chetham (theatre) Photo Credit: Christian Brandan Photography Photo Credit: Ted D’Ottavio Photo Credit: Greg Brophy Websites: http://www.myspace.com/sizzle_dizz
IFBB Figure Pro Louise Rogers
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_louiserogers_interviewucw_complete.mp3 I began weight training when I was about 20-21 years old. Before this I trained in athletics, particularly sprinting. I was also heavily into classes and cardio training, for sometimes up to 2 hours a day. This changed after I completed the Premier Training Personal Training course. Upon completion of the course I started working part time in a bodybuilding/power lifting gym, and I was partnered up with a colleague who was training for power lifting competitions. It was an unlikely pairing however it gave me a real introduction to weight training, specifically power lifting. A few months later I made a switch to bodybuilding type weight training.. and from here I started regularly weight training and phased out much of my cardio training. After a while I started seeing changes in my physique. However it wasn’t until about 5 years later that I thought I might give a competition a go! I remember I had often looked at different fitness magazines seeing the likes of Monica Brant and thinking “wow”.. although I thought it would be unattainable. However after consistently training for so many years I thought I would try doing a local qualifier for Body fitness (figure) to see how I would go. I started preparing for my first show in January 2008 and I really had no idea what to expect from the whole competition experience! I also had no idea whether I would be ‘good enough’ to step on the competition stage. However I had a fantastic support team around me who were really encouraging me to have a go and try it… So I went along to compete at the South Coast UKBFF Qualifier. It was really quite overwhelming but I placed 1st – much to my shock!! From here I qualified to compete at the UKBFF/IFBB British Championships in Nottingham. I competed at the British Championships placing 1st. Becoming UK BodyFitness Champion 2008. My third and most recent competition was the IFBB World Championships in Como, Italy. I placed 5th overall in the world, becoming the first woman in the UK to achieve an IFBB Figure Pro card abroad! “Louise Rogers is what you want to see in an athlete, she’s talented, focused, querky, caring and determined. These are the qualities that make her approachable, these are the qualities that allow her to stand apart from many. I would not be shocked at all if she found herself venturing into the world of entertainment, either film, television or even sports entertainment, WWE may come a calling at some point. It was a definite pleasure to have her on the show and I look forward to having her on again in the future, keep an eye out for her in 2013,” stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.louiserogersfitness.com www.twitter.com/Louise_IFBBPro
PIX 11 News Anchor, Author and Entrepreneur Tamsen Fadal
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tamsenfadal_interviewucw.mp3 Tamsen Fadal is an Emmy Award winning journalist, an author, co-founder and designer of SHANSEN™ Jewelry and co-founder of The Love Consultants, a matchmaking, date coaching and image consulting service. Tamsen loves all things tech, fashion and green. She can be seen bright and early Monday-Friday hosting the WPIX-TV, Morning News starting at 4AM. In January 2010, Tamsen made her Broadway debut in CHICAGO, the musical and appeared in Broadway’s IN THE HEIGHTS, followed by on-stage debuts in Broadway’s IN THE HEIGHTS and ROCK OF AGES. Along with her job as a media personality, Tamsen works alongside, Matt Titus, a TV Host and nationally renowned relationship expert. The two co-authored the book Why Hasn’t He Called? How Guys Really Think and How to Get the Right One Interested in You, their second book, Why Hasn’t He Proposed? Go From The First Date To Setting The Date and their most recent, Don’t Date Dumb. Tamsen has appeared on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS Early Show, Tyra Banks and The Nate Berkus Show just to name a few. Prior to joining WPIX-TV, Tamsen was a correspondent for the CBS flagship station, WCBS-TV. With more than a decade of experience, she has covered stories ranging from the Columbia Shuttle Crash to the London Bombings to the war on terror. In 2002, she traveled to Afghanistan with the American troops reporting on the war. She was also sent to Air Force bases in London and Germany to report on local troops during Operation Enduring Freedom. Prior to that, she reported for WPGH-TV in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and WOWK- TV in Charleston, West Virginia and KYW-TV in Philadelphia doing investigative journalism. Tamsen was awarded an Emmy in 2005 for her work as an Investigative Reporter. She was also awarded a Broadcast Journalism award in 2004 by the National Air Disaster Foundation [NADF] post 9/11, for contributions leading to improved aviation safety. Tamsen began her broadcasting career as a morning drive anchor for WHNZ Radio in Tampa, Florida after graduating from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. Tamsen was named the 2004 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award Recipient. This New Yorker is active with various women’s networking groups aimed toward empowerment. Tamsen is extremely active in the fight against Breast Cancer after losing her mother to the disease in 1990. “Tamsen Fadal is a definite inspiration to anyone that ever wanted an example of fighting for your dreams, she never took the high road but is a definite path maker opening doors for others along the way, this is one shining star that will continue to be a beacon of light for young people looking for a reason to reach for their dreams and achieve their goals” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez. Links: www.tamsenfadal.com www.wpix.com/news/morningnews/ www.twitter.com/tamsenfadal www.youtube.com/tamsenfadaltvpage www.shansenjewlery.com
NFL Great, Former NY Jets Ssafety Victor Green
Victor Green was born on December 8, 1969 in Americus Georgia. As a well rounded athlete in High School he ran track, played basketball and excelled in football. After graduation Victor went on to the International Technical Institute where he earned an Associate degree in Marketing. He then went on to pursue his first love of Football at Copiah Lincoln Community College and excelled in the NJCAA where he was twice named to the “Grid Iron All-American” team. While there he received a Associates of Arts degree. He earned a scholarship to play college football for the University of Akron. He also ran track in college and earned 2 more degrees, one in Political Science and one in Criminal Justice. After he graduated in 1993 Victor entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent. By 1994 he was the starting Strong Safety for the New York Jets. His passion for excellence and the game of football was evident in 1995 and 1996 when Green led the NFL in tackles. In the 1996 game against the Buffalo Bills, Green set a New York Jets team record with 20 tackles (13 solo and 7 assists). During his 10 year history with the Jets, Green was named the “Best Strong Safety” in Jets history. “Victor Green is one of the classiest NFL players that I’ve come across to date, he incorporates more than talent his view of family and the Pay-It-Forward mentality is what makes him truly great, between his foundation and his business ventures this is one guy that the youth should look at if they want to get inspired” Stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.victorbgreen.com www.classactsports.com www.coachedbypros.com www.twitter.com/victorgreen21
Pro Wrestler and Actress Niki Nitro
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_nikinitro_interviewucw_complete.mp3 G’day I am Nicole Sharrock. I was Born in Sydney New South Wales Australia on the 22nd May 1981, I moved to *Warilla* (Wollongong) in New South Wales Australia with my mother where I grew up living across the road from the Beach on the South Coast. I attended Lake Illawarra South Public School & Lake Illawarra High School. I have always been into Acting, attending Drama Throughout Primary & High School & I also Joined the school Choir & played Drums 6 years. Apart from my Acting I have always been into my Sports. (My Friends call me a Typical Tomboy) haha I was into Anything from Surfing, Playing Rugby League, Rugby Union, Wrestling, Rollerblading, Skateboarding the Ramps & Half pipes at the local Police Boys Club where I ended up developing a passion for Power Lifting (Weights) after being approached by the local Head coach of the NSW Power Lifting team at the age of 14 I trained my way up into the 2nd Division for New South Wales but retired from Power lifting at 16 due to personal family problems. At the age of 16 I Moved out of Home & moved up to Sydney where I lived for 12 years. I had many, many jobs working in Retail, Hospitality, Laboring, Office, Bar & Personal Training after completing her Personal Training course But I was not satisfied with what I wanted to do with my life as there was always something missing from it. At the age of 17 my Dad took me to my 1st ever Indy Wrestling Show (Australian Championship Wrestling) at Mount Pritchard Liverpool Sydney Australia. Where I finally found what had been missing from my life (Entertainment Wrestling). After the show I approached the company & started training the following Tuesday with Andy *Animal / Daddy Cool* Harpas & I have never looked back I made my Wrestling Debut on the 3rd June 1999 in her Home Town (Warrawong) against Poison Ivy. I am still Wrestling & am Very much still In-love with it. I have been extremely lucky to Wrestle Across Australia & Internationally as *Miss Niki Nitro* This year I was exceptionally lucky enough to be offered a spot on a International Tour & I flew to Newfound Land Canada. Being the 1st ever Australian Wrestler to represent my Home Soil Wrestling on the LCW (Legend City Wrestling) “Lets Get Rowdy Tour”. On Tour with me, was Former Superstars, HOF Rowdy Roddy Piper, Scott Steiner, Rhino & Indy Wrestling Sensation Cult Cabana. On November 1st 2012 I was offered a Contract to be an Actor on the Australian SBS Comedy T.V. Series (Housos) for Season 2. Which will be aired on Australian TV in 2013. I Play the character of *Hayley* Who is in a Defacto relationship with the Main Actor Franky (Paul Fenech). I also appear in the *Housos vs Authority* Movie that was Released out in Australian Cinemas on the 1st of November 2012. “Niki has that something special which in my opinion would be an asset to either the WWE or TNA IMCT, and I see this soon to be star will shine bright in that square circle on a larger scale in the near future” Stated Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.nikinitro.com
Actor Matthew Jaeger
2021 Matthew Jaeger & Carolina Espiro https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-02-13-UCWRadio_MatthewJaegerCarolinaEspiro_02022021.mp3 2012 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_matthewjaeger_interviewucw_11272012_complete.mp3 2010 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_matthewjaeger_interviewucw.mp3 Matthew Jaeger first tried acting at the age of 14 when a friend convinced him to audition for a high school play back in Delafield, Wisconsin. He enjoyed it so much that he participated in every high school production after that. Still, Jaeger wasn’t really sure that acting was a ‘good’ career choice, so he set out to study broadcasting at college. But, by the end of the first semester at Marquette University, Jaeger had set that major aside and fully engulfed himself in the Theatre Arts program with a minor in dance. It was during this time that Jaeger finally gave up resisting and started believing that his fascination with expression could be a ‘good’ career choice. And, shortly after graduating, Jaeger packed up his car and headed for Hollywood. In the days ahead, Jaeger realized that his passion for learning and new experiences could be of use. As a result, he has died, killed, wed, cheated, stolen, and sold himself to another man… all in a day’s work. Jaeger’s roles have spanned from a transvestite prostitute to a clever mafioso, allowing him to showcase his exceptional ability of bringing characters in conflict to life. In one role Jaeger is diving into the lives of three complicated characters, two fighting for love and another fighting for diamonds. First, as an openly gay man struggling with love and spiritual connection, in the film festival favorite “Just Say Love,” directed by three-time Emmy Award winner Bill Humphreys. On stage, Jaeger is caught between the deaf and hearing worlds, in the 30th Anniversary production of Children of a Lesser God,which ran at the celebrated Deaf West Theater in Los Angeles. Lastly, Jaeger is fighting for his love of diamonds, as he co-stars as the thief Mr. Luther, in the newly launched HBOImagine Brand Experience internet miniseries. These episodes will also play on four-sided “cube” screens as live events in select cities around the country, including New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia. You can see Matthew as he is frequently seen on such shows as CSI, Criminal Minds and others. His latest reality show project, “URBAN NATURE MAN” puts a city boy in a situation where he needs to live off the land, well kind of, this is sure to be a big hit as its in line to get picked up by one of the networks. “In the world of entertainment you have mainstays and you have flash in the pans, those that hone their skills & bright that talent to enhance a project are the ones that become legendary, Matthew Jaeger is an awesome talent that I see falling into that realm, you definitely want to keep an eye out on his career,” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.matthewjaeger.com www.urbannatureman.com https://www.twitter.com/matthewdjaeger To watch the sneak peek episode “Teddy Bear Chase” of the HBOImagine Brand Experience visit: www.HBOImagine.com For “Just Say Love” visit: www.JustSayLoveMovie.com For “Children of a Lesser God” visit: www.DeafWest.org
Recording Artist and Occult Film Director Seraphim Ward
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_seraphimward_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Seraphim Ward is of Creole descent and in every aspect of her work, she displays her enchanted charm beautifully. Hailing from the south parts of the United States, Mississippi, New Orleans and Indiana, she shivers that ‘ole southern hospitality warmly inviting to all. Seraphim Ward was born with a severe speaking impediment disorder that was said to be severe enough that recovery to obtain an normal speech would not likely be, Seraphim grew a custom to literature knowing this was the only outlet for communication since she could not complete a full sentence not alone pronounce a entire word. Seraphim Ward was teased a lot as a young child that continued up into her late teens, for her nature and disorder, this caused her to become an introverted mute for some time. Having love for literature Seraphim Ward began writing her emotions and thoughts in a very expressive manner creating a world around her that reflected in her likeness and flaws. Seeing that she did not fit or belong, Seraphim ran away at 15yrs. old, returning back home for just a short period of time after, envisioning where she belonged and what she wanted to become, Seraphim Ward left for Hollywood, still held bound to the stuttering speech disorder, she religiously practiced on her speech daily, hoping eventually it would go away. Seraphim Ward along with the other hundred’s of Hollywood run-a-ways, became a child of the night hidden away in the dark shadows. The run-a-ways formed a safe group on the streets, looking out for one another creating spanging and sleeping shifts, in which Seraphim became Willow, the one protected in darkness. She continued to write in her notebook lyrics, poems and vivid stories of creation in another realm, show her passion of interest in it. Seraphim Ward caught the eye of an manager for talent in Hollywood, who signed her, placing her in a place to safely live and sent her out for auditions for commercials, modeling and print work. Seraphim booked work, three national commercials in a row shortly after… Kraft’s Macaroni and Cheese, Foot Locker, Macy’s (back to school) and a J-Crew print ad. She went on to model for designers and high-end boutique stores in Beverly Hills such as Be Be, XoXo and Theory among many. Being able to take care of herself now, Seraphim Ward got a one bedroom apartment on her own and continued to push in the Entertainment Industry. Not too long after Seraphim realized her speaking impediment was not present anymore and marveled that she has no regulation of the pinpoint moment when it stopped, a few years would pass before Seraphim Ward’s stuttering disorder untimely return, Seraphim began writing down her emotions, feelings and thoughts on paper again documenting her complications in words. This would lead her into her first music demo recording filled with the material she wrote during and after the disorder left her again. Seraphim Ward was introduced to a church in Los Angeles where she joined the choir and the praise dance team, hailing to church 5days a week for rehearsals and service, Seraphim thought this would be an great asset for her to ground her spirituality balance once again. This was short lived when Seraphim was told “she did not belong and she has no business being there”. With the now distracting situation, Seraphim Ward left and never looked back. Her first Demo was recorded and which her Influences were Garbage, Nine Inch Nails, Nina Simone and Concrete Blonde. Seraphim Ward met one of her influences Trent Reznor from Nine Inch Nails through a mutual friend, and they began dating, Trent introducing Seraphim to his family in Mercer, Pennsylvania, was more than just a vision for Seraphim Ward it was a family she grew not to have and a friend she could always look up to and trust. Trent Reznor offered to lend a helping hand to Seraphim Ward with her music, but Seraphim felt it was right that she did the beginnings of her recordings herself, stating “this is something I have to do for me, I don’t want to use Trent Reznor for that”, even today, he remains a positive illuminated figure in Seraphim Ward’s life and path, having given guidance and directional advise to her that carried Seraphim through even some of her most darkest moments in time, including her suicide attempt. Seraphim Ward decided not to focus so much on music, but to pay attention more on the creative writing literature side, wanting to put her visions to screen as Rob Zombie had done with a “House Of A Thousand Corpses” Seraphim Ward studied Film here in Hollywood an outlet of communication that allows her stories, the torments, and the darkest secrets of her mind be painted. Seeing that Seraphim Ward was not fully complete by those around her and peers, she was suggested to mix the two her music and her film art, knowing the difference in the creative spark, Seraphim Ward took the advice given and started recording again while she was still studying Film. “It was like as if a old flame had been ignited, a feeling I don’t ever want to let go of again” says Seraphim Ward Finishing film school Seraphim received her first worldwide distribution deal for her Sin Icon Productions Film and Music company in which the first single release off her “Time Heals All wounds” album “Bad Behavior” was set to be released, as well as her complete features “The Sight”, “Reaper’s Cry”, “Angel One Eye”, and “The Witches Brew”… Seraphim Ward began the promotion of her single “Bad Behavior” as well as her movie features, having shot a three day music video shoot for the single that was commercially displayed she was advised to hire an professional publicist to get the leak out about herself as an artist and filmmaker through her Sin Icon Production Music and Film company. Seraphim Ward was over excited with her new adventure, wanting to
UFC Legend Frank Shamrock
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_frankshamrock_ucwradio.mp3 Frank Shamrock was born Frank Alicio Juarez III on December 8, 1972, at the UCLA Medical Center in Westwood, California. A sensitive child, raised in a difficult family, Frank’s early life was filled with violence, poverty and trouble. Rejecting his family, Frank became a ward of the State of California at 12 and a prison inmate at 18. But by the age of 22, Frank was a world story. His incredible journey, soon to be published in book form, has been an inspiration to fans around the world. As a fighter, Frank “The Legend” Shamrock was a mixed martial arts and extreme fighting pioneer. He was the world’s first UFC Middleweight Champion, and left the UFC as the four-time, undefeated champion. He secured four world titles, and set two world records for the fastest championship victories in history – defeating one contender in 14 seconds and another in 20. He is widely considered the first complete fighter/athlete and promotes martial arts as saving his life. “The Legend’s” legendary fights helped make MMA a growing and respected sport, and he is credited with advancing the sport to broadcast television. In 2006 Frank won the first-ever sanctioned MMA fight in California, knocking out family rival Cesar Gracie. He went on to highly-rated bouts with MMA superstars Phil Baroni, Renzo Gracie and Cung Le. In 2009, Frank’s MMA expertise went multimedia, with the publication of the book “Mixed Martial Arts For Dummies” and repeated TV commentating appearances on CBS’s “Saturday Night Fights” and fights on Showtime. Today, Frank and his wife Amy live in San Jose, California with their daughter Nicolette, born in April 2008. Frank also has a 22 year old son Frankie, from his first marriage, who currently lives in Arkansas and is studying acting, modeling and stage technique. Now retired from professional competition, the Legend likes to hike outdoors with his family, is an avid reader of any and all books, loves to dance with his daughter and watch movies. Websites: www.frankshamrock.com
Bodybuilding Legend Eddie Robinson
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_eddierobinson_interviewucw_complete.mp3 In my life I have been blessed as an athlete and father of two precious children, Cara 16 & Seth 8. My career as an athlete started at a young age, as a teenager I played football and boxed at the Golden Gloves in Akron Ohio. In 1982, I moved to Florida and got involved in bodybuilding and power lifting which became my true love. As a teenager I was able to accomplish winning just about every bodybuilding and powerlifting meet in the state of Florida. My career took off like a rocket in 1986 when I took a world record in the bench press at 5’8 and 220 pounds; I had pressed 575 and 610 pounds ranking me number one in the world. At that time I had channeled my strength to pursue a career in bodybuilding. Winning the Mr. Florida, Mr. America, and Mr. USA titles gave me professional recognition as one of the greatest pro bodybuilders and powerlifters in the world. Having competed as a professional bodybuilder for fifteen years I decided to retire in 2002 giving up my pro status as an IFBB pro athlete and moving on to what God has in store for me next. I have been blessed in my career accomplishing over seventy-five national and international magazine covers, 360 articles & advertisements along with numerous endorsements. The highlights of my career have been working with Arnold Schwarzenegger, being featured doing a series of photos for his bodybuilding encyclopedia along with competing in the Arnold Classic. I was also honored to have the privilege to work with Vince & Linda McMahon endorsing ICO/PRO, and competing in the WBF, one of the highlights of my life. And last but not least Mr. Joe Weider.aka (The Master Blaster), I owe a lot to this man for taking me under his belt for the last twelve years, and for having faith in me as a pro athlete & contracting me for most of my professional career. I am honored, and always will be for being an endorser of Muscle & Fitness, Flex, and Weider Nutrition. My career has enabled me to travel the world, and meet some of the world’s greatest people. I thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to meet these great people who have become my friends, and by giving me the strength to be the best athlete and father that I can be. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fans for all their support through the fifteen years of my professional career. Your letters have always given me the drive and inspiration to be the best athlete that I can in the sport of bodybuilding. Please remember, just because I have retired from the sport of bodybuilding don’t think that this is the end of Eddie Robinson, I promise you this is just the beginning! I am up to bigger and better things, a new chapter in my life. I have captured all of these achievements for a reason. Now it is time to capitalize on all of these achievements and put them to work. “Life is not about who you are or what you’ve done, it’s about how many lives you have touched and the closeness of Family and friends! God Bless You All!IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, two children, Cara (born 1992) & Seth (born 2001). Weider contracted athlete 1988-2002, Vince McMahon 1990-1994 Websites: www.eddierobinson.org www.twitter.com/eddie_robinson
From The Karate Kid & Rambo Films Actor Martin Kove
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_martin_kove_power_hour_10232012.mp3 New York born, strong featured, narrow eyed actor who has portrayed a mixed bag of both good and bad guys! First turned up on screen in several minor roles, and got himself noticed as the villainous “Nero The Hero” in the low budget road race Death Race 2000(1975), and then as “Clem” the sadistic rigger, breaking Jan-Michael Vincent’s ribs inWhite Line Fever (1975). He cropped up in the hit TV series “Cagney & Lacey” (1981) as honest Police Detective Isbecki, and then got on the wrong side of rampaging Sylvester Stallone in Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985). Kove probably scored his greatest visibility to the public ( in the hugely successful The Karate Kid (1984) in which he played “John Kreese”, the head instructor of the Cobra Kai karate school, and he reprised the role in the two sequels, The Karate Kid, Part II (1986) and The Karate Kid, Part III (1989). Kove has since kept consistently busy, primarily in the action / thriller film genre, and has notched up over 80 film appearances to date, as well as numerous TV guest roles.
Wing Chun Pioneer & Martial Arts Legend Jason Lau
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_JasonLau_05202021.mp3 Grandmaster Jason Lau grew up in Hong Kong in a martial arts family. Both his mother and father were performers and martial artists in the famous Chinese Opera. Grandmaster Lau’s mother trained him in the Northern Shaolin style from the time he could walk, and drilled him constantly. When he was about twelve years old, a fellow classmate at LaSalle Academy helped him in a fight against several English boys. It was during this fight that Grandmaster Lau first saw Wing Chun in action. He was so impressed, he immediately found a school to learn the system. Master Jiu Wan accepted him as a student, and he began to train in secret, fearful that his mother would discover that he was training in another style. Grandmaster Lau trained with Jiu Wan until age nineteen, when he left Hong Kong to come to America. He soon settled in an area of Brooklyn known as Flatbush. As Grandmaster Lau opened his school and got to know the local merchants, he discovered that crime in his neighborhood was widespread. He decided to use his Wing Chun skills to defend his neighborhood. He soon became well known and appreciated as a vigilante, both by the shopkeepers and the police. As his reputation spread, he came to the attention of retired General Mitchell WerBell III, who was scouting for instructors for his counter-terrorist training camp, SIONICS. General WerBell recruited Grandmaster Lau to teach hand to hand combat at the camp in Powder Springs, Georgia. Grandmaster Lau so impressed the General with his abilities that he soon became the camp’s chief instructor and the General’s personal bodyguard. Shortly after General WerBell’s death in 1983, Grandmaster Lau again opened a Wing Chun academy, this time in Smyrna, Georgia. His school and his reputation grew in the Atlanta area, and he was often featured in news specials and magazine and newspaper articles. In the early 1990s, Grandmaster Lau was finally able to realize his dream of designing and building a Wing Chun temple. He and his students labored for two years to build the academy, nestled in a wooded Atlanta suburb. Grandmaster Lau formed his school into a family. He treats his students as if they were his sons and daughters, and the students treat each other as brothers and sisters. The school that he designed and built is their home. Grandmaster Lau is currently finishing an instructional Wing Chun video tape for the branches of his family in New York and Tampa as well as for other serious Wing Chun students. Websites: www.jasonlau-wingchun.com
Martial Artist and Hollywood Actor Cary Tagawa
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (born September 27, 1950) is a Japanese American actor. In addition to his extensive film work, he has appeared on television in Star Trek: The Next Generation – ” Encounter at Farpoint ” (1987), Thunder in Paradise (1995), Nash Bridges (1996), Baywatch: Hawaiian Wedding(2003), and Heroes (2007). He also provided the voice of Sin Tzu for the video game Batman: Rise of Sin Tzu. He played the part of Earth Alliance security officer Morishi in Babylon 5 – ” Convictions “. He played a soul-stealing sorcerer Shang Tsung in a film adaptation of the video game Mortal Kombat. He was born in Tokyo, Japan, the son of an actress from Tokyo and a Japanese-American father who served in the United States Army (stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort Polk, Louisiana and Fort Hood, Texas ). He was raised in various cities. He began acting in high school while attending Duarte High School in Southern California. He attended the University of Southern California, and was an exchange student in Japan. His breakthrough as an actor came when he was cast as the Eunuch Chang in The Last Emperor(1987). In 1989 he posed as an undercover agent of the Hong Kong Narcotics Board in the James Bond film License to Kill. In 1991 he starred alongside Dolph Lundgren and Brandon Lee in the action film Showdown in Little Tokyo , where he played the role of Yakuza boss Yoshida. He also starred alongside James Hong and Jeff Speakman in the same year in the film The Perfect Weapon, where he played Kai, an assistant to the Korean mafia families. Many remember him from the movieMortal Kombat (1995) as the shape-shifting sorcerer Shang Tsung , and as the deadly pirate leader Kabai Singh in The Phantom (1996). Tagawa is among the actors, producers and directors interviewed in the documentary The Slanted Screen (2006), directed by Jeff Adachi , about the representation of Asian and Asian-American men in Hollywood. Most recently, Tagawa was selected for the role of Heihachi Mishima in Tekken , the film adaptation of the popular video game franchise. He was also featured as the voice of Brushogun in Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo. Japanese born actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa’s interest in films began at the age of eight when Ayako, his then-famous Japanese theatre mother, took him to see Shirley McClain’s academy award winning performance in Some Came Running. Although I didn’t fully understand the drama I could sense and see the emotional content in the actors’ performances. “Being a hypersensitive kid, I thought that my sensitivity might someday be utilized as an actor.” The journey from that inspiration manifested into an impressive curriculum vitae of filmwork. Tagawa’s raw powerful sensuality and physical skill on screen is complimented by his deep emotional sensitivity as an actor translates into a laser focused Zen-like acting style that few to date can emulate. Tagawa began his acting career as an extra in Big Trouble in Little China. With his true to life charismatic smile, Tagawa recalls, “It was the only extra job I ever did not because of talent but because of luck and looks. They needed tough looking Asian bad guys.” Thus began the notable career of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. “What most people don’t know is that I was a healer long before I began acting. It is my first love.” – Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa Tagawa’s feature films spanning twenty-three years have grossed over 1.5 billion in worldwide box office and another seventy performances on television shows and series. The feature films have netted 13 Academy Awards from The Last Emperor to Pearl Harbor to Memoirs of a Geisha. His latest films include Hachiko and Tekken. InHachiko which won the Audience Choice Award for Best Feature Film at The Sedona International Film Festival, Tagawa plays Richard Gere’s best friend. “What most people don’t know is that I was a healer long before I began acting. It is my first love.” As the founder of a 31 year old Post-New Age breathing modality, Chuu Shin, Tagawa combines his experience in Martial Arts and Sports. “I was always a very physical child. I always played sports which naturally led to the study of Martial Arts but Chuu Shin was founded upon leaving my traditional study.” Chuu Shin represents the best of Tagawa’s Sports and Martial Arts history. It combines the Western external physical training with Eastern internal energy systems. | FILMOGRAPHY | CHUU SHIN DO WORKING WITH ATHLETES Cary has always had a passion for football. He got his start working with athletes when in 1979, Los Angeles Rams running back Wendell Tyler asked Cary to train him using martial arts techniques. He was asked again in 1993 by pro football players Marcus Allen and Sean Jones to help them increase their athleticism. In each case, the athletes were able to achieve higher performance with less energy expenditure. Their increased flexibility led to greater quickness, speed and reaction time. Cary realized then that his training techniques could enhance the performance of professional athletes on a much grander scale.
Martial Artist, Comedian and Actor Hank Garrett
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_hankgarrett_ucwradio.mp3 Growing up in New York’s Harlem, Henry Garrett was thrilled to discover that the 300-pound weight set that he ordered had finally arrived. His mother tried to persuade the delivery man to take it to their fifth floor apartment with an offer of ten cents. “I’ll pay you a buck not to ask me for help” was the wisecracking response. Henry struggled but managed to lug his new equipment, piece by piece, up the five floors. Little did he know that this modest purchase would forever shape not only his body but also his life. “Hank” progressed to working out at the local YMCA and began competing in body building and powerlifting contests. While at the “Y”, he was approached by another weight trainer and educated on the virtues of becoming a professional wrestler. Veteran grappler Bibber McCoy helped to train the muscular upstart. An arranged meeting with New York promoter and PWHF Inductee Toots Mondt began seventeen year old Hank’s mat career. He soon started working at the local New York and New Jersey arenas billed as Hank Daniels, “The Minnesota Farm Boy”, although he had never stepped foot into Minnesota. The confidence that Hank gained from his chiseled physique also led him to pursue stand-up comedy. Following a short period of time honing his skills in local establishments, teenager Garrett began rotating his evenings inside the squared circle as the “Farm Boy” and in front of a microphone as Hank Garrett. “I was scheduled to wrestle Killer Kowalski in California” Hank recently told this writer, “Killer picked me up at the airport and couldn’t have been nicer to me. We got in the ring and he proceeded to slap me across the face to open the match. I was pretty taken by this unexpected move so I banged him with my best forearm but didn’t even move his feet. I don’t remember the rest of the match but later in the locker room Kowalski said to me ‘Hey Hank, why did you keep running past me in the ring yelling out Mama, Mama ?’ “. Despite five years of competition against many wrestlers including legendary stars such as Lenny Montana, Baron Leone and Mike Mazurki, Hank hung up his wrestling trunks for good and made his way to the Catskills and the Borscht Belt to concentrate on his comedy. A great story teller with a wealth of dialects, Hank cultivated his signature “clean” comic routine working as an opening act for such greats as Tony Bennett, Jerry Vale and Della Reese. He holds the unique distinction of being the first Anglo comedian to ever grace the stage of the Apollo Theater in his Harlem hometown. Hank’s first venture into television took place in New York as Officer Nicholson in the iconic television series, Car 54, Where Are You?. California called again but this time it was for another television series in which Hank teamed with James Earl Jones in a show conceived for them entitled Paris. “James was a wonderful actor” Hank stated, “and he probably taught me more than anyone about the profession”. . Garrett has also been featured in a number of other classic episodic television shows such as Columbo, Dragnet, Kojak and The Twilight Zone. Hank has also found great success on the silver screen. He has worked with such stars as Al Pacino, James Coburn, and Sophia Loren to mention only a few. Hank described Loren as the most beautiful woman he has ever met. In a “stunt that went wrong” while filming a movie with Sophia, Hank suddenly found himself barely conscious and cradled in the arms of Ms. Loren, who yelled to bystanders to send for an ambulance. Garrett, still in a daze, recalled following up by saying “but, take your time!” Unfortunately, ill-fated stunts have not been uncommon to Garrett. While filming a fighting scene with Amsterdam’s own Kirk Douglas, Kirk reassured Hank that he had never actually hit another actor in all of years of performing. He then proceeded to inadvertently hammer Garrett to the face. Hank graciously informed Douglas that he had just blown his reputation. Perhaps Garrett’s greatest personal satisfaction garnered within the movie industry was winning the New York Film Critics Award for his role in Three Days of the Condor. When I discussed this movie with Hank, I learned he was not always on the receiving end of ill-fated stunts as he jokingly lamented, “I never recall hurting anyone as a wrestler but I accidentally broke Robert Redford’s nose during the filming of Condor.” As a seasoned veteran, Hank lists literally hundreds of credits in movies and television. Today Hank enjoys an active life in Los Angeles where he chooses to perform his crafts without an automobile after being a passenger in tragic accident many years ago. “You meet the most interesting people in both buses and limos” Hank recently stated. Garrett continues to be in great physical shape by pursuing weight training as his hobby and monitoring his diet. He also has had a long time passion for martial arts where he has achieved the status of a Black Belt. and been inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame. Garrett actively participates in many celebrity autograph shows throughout the country and performs his comedy routines at corporate outings and special events. In addition, with his powerful and youthful voice, Garrett can be regularly heard on the animated television shows Garfield and G. I. Joe. Hank donates much of his proceeds from his appearances to his favorite charity, the Disabled American Veterans. “Giving back is what it is all about for me” Hank told this writer.” I have been very blessed in my life and I would like to return some of my successes to those that have been less fortunate and who have sacrificed for our country.”
Martial Arts Legend The Lady Dragon Cynthia Rothrock
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_cynthiarothrock_ucwradio.mp3 Cynthia Rothrock is one of the greatest martial arts/action film stars in the world, Few other performers can match her presence and energy on the silver screen. She is the undisputed “Queen of Martial Arts films”.Cynthia Rothrock is not only a great action star, but also an incredibly accomplished martial artist. She holds 5 Black Belts in various Far Eastern martial disciplines. These Arts include; Tang Soo Do (Korean), Tae Kwon Do (Korean), Eagle Claw (Chinese), Wu Shu (contemporary Chinese), and Northern Shaolin (classical Chinese). Cynthia Rothrock’s movie career “shooting schedule” has taken her to some of the most exotic locations on the planet. Paradoxically, she has also endured some of the worse climatic conditions that anyone in the moton picture could ever anticipate – all in the name of making “action-adventure” motion pictures.But, Cynthia is quick to point out that the memories and enjoyment of working with some of the top martial arts directors in the business has all been worth it. Namely; outstanding directors like Robert Clouse (Enter the Dragon starring Bruce Lee), Cory Yuen (No Retreat, No Surrender end many more), Samo Hung (Shanghai Express and many more), Guy Norris (Rage and Honor II), Kevin Hooks (Irresistible Force, more), Oley Sassone (Fast Getaway II, more), Paul Maslak (Blonde Justice, more), John Schlesinger (Eye for an Eye, more), Brian Todd (Hostage, more). and Fred Williamson (Night Vision, more). William Groak, an Editor for Black Belt Magazine, once compiled a dossier that perhaps best sums up Cynthia’s action-adventure martial arts film career and work ethic when it comes to the film making process. Simply stated, it reads, “Cynthia Rothrock: The Next Action Hero. SUBJECT: Next Action Film Star. MISSION: Conquer America. STATS: Can Fight, Punch, Maim, Shoot, Kick and Whip 155 Crazed Terrorists with nary a scratch. PROFILE: Sports a Ponytail better than Seagal, Chest Superior to Arnold, Looks Superior to Van Damme and Norris. And, unlike Stallone and Willis, obliterates Bad Guys while perched on Three-Inch Heels.” She has had her celebrated moments in the “spot light” as a film personality that has been a true martial artist from the beginning of her film career. Appearing at Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Fitness EXPO ’98 brings back fond memories of Arnold actually singing “Happy Birthday” to her on stage before a packed house that drew 75,000 competitors and spectators for a weekend in Columbus, Ohio in 1998. Much of that same notoriety has been experienced at Film Festivals all over the world in addition to countless hundreds and hundreds of karate and kung-fu tournaments she has attended over the past decade. Being honored at the Crystal Awards (comparable to Hollywood’s Academy Award “Oscars”) had it’s finer moments as well. Cynthia was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for popularizing martial arts around the world through the film media. Publicity has followed Cynthia Rothrock through every stage of her illustrious career. She is the “media darling” of virtually every reporter, writer, and martial arts magazine in the world. They know that she draws readers by the thousands to their publication. In fact, her “image” and “career” is perhaps followed more closely (by martial arts enthusiast) than any other “martial arts” actors except Chuck Norris or Jackie Chan. Websites: www.cynthiarothrock.org
From LXTV’S Open House Interior Designer Frances Herrera
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_francesherrera_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Acclaimed for her “affordable luxury” design principles, Frances Herrera has quickly become one of the top approachable and coveted interior designers. Since establishing her design firm in New York City in 2002, services have expanded and are now offered throughout South Florida where she resides. Frances believes that personal attention and building client relationships through exceptional service is as important as the innovative designs she provides. Sophisticated taste, flawless execution, and her ability to understand her client’s unique needs and desires is what sets her apart from other firms. Whether designing a modern, contemporary or traditional space, her philosophy remains the same: to create comfortable, livable rooms, with an understated, sophisticated edge. She is most recognized for her ability to create welcoming, harmonious, sanctuary-like homes that feel polished and refined. “I don’t follow trends,” Frances says. “I let my clients’ passions and interests dictate the emotion and feel of the home. Ultimately, I design homes that progress over time and reflect my clients’ ever- evolving lifestyles.” As a TV makeover personality, Frances’ distinctive creativity, flare for transforming spaces and captivating energy has captured countless fans. She has appeared numerous times on NBC’s Open House, George to the Rescue and LXTV’s On the White Carpet. Her work has also been featured in numerous publications and blogs including Real Simple, Bella Magazine, New York Newsday and Apartment Therapy. Websites: www.francesherrera.com
Martial Arts Legend and Actor Don “The Dragon” Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_don_wilson_power_hour_09252012.mp3 Don “The Dragon” Wilson is considered the greatest kick-boxing champion in the sport’s history. A native of South Florida, Wilson began fighting in the late 1970s. In a career which spanned 4 decades, he won 11 world kick-boxing championships, among them the WKA, STAR, WKC, PKO Lightheavyweight World Championships, WKA, STAR, ISKA World Cruiserweight Titles, and the WKA and STAR Super-Lightheavyweight World Championships.He posted a record of 72-5-2 with 47 wins by knockout. Wilson defeated such world champions as Dennis Alexio, Oaktree Edwards, and Dick Kimber. He retired from the sport in 1990, but launched a comeback on May 14, 1999. Since his return he has knocked-out Dick Kimber and defeated Dewey Cooper. Websites: www.donthedragonwilson.com
Actress Karen-Eileen Gordon
Actress Karen-Eileen Gordon’s shape-shifting performances on television and film have impressed audiences and critics alike. Gordon is currently filming her second season as FLORENCE (tough-smart-funny New York dame) on the hit STARZ Network Original Series “Magic City,” set in 1959 Miami Beach and starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan. “Flo” is the longtime executive assistant to Morgan’s character Ike Evans, owner of the luxe Miramar Playa Hotel. The show is currently in production in Miami, and returns to the air in 2013. On television, Gordon recently completed a guest-star turn on A & E’s smash drama “The Glades,” as sharky lawyer JOANNE RILEY; that episode received the highest ratings in the show’s history-to-date. On film, Gordon stars in the independent feature comedy “A Free Bird” as southern hurricane-in-a-jar TAMMY, directed by George Foster Peabody and British Academy of Film and Television Arts award-winner Gregg Russell. The project, now in post-production, will debut on the festival circuit in 2013. Gordon is also a Reiki Master (Japanese energy healing art), Harvard grad, and a voting member of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. She is based in Los Angeles, and has a big crush on social media. Join the adventures at: Websites: www.twitter.com/GotKarenEileen www.facebook.com/KarenEileenGordonOfficial
Bravo TV’s “Love Broker” Lori Zaslow & Jenn Zucher
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_lorizaslow_jennzucher_interviewucw.mp3 Founded by Lori Zaslow and Jennifer Zucher, professional matchmakers and BRAVO TV’s Love Brokers, Project Soulmate is Manhattan’s premier matchmaking service for elite singles. We are distinguished by our proprietary database, meticulously screened and personalized introductions, honest and kind feedback, concierge services and expert relationship support. Our priority is to deliver high quality, meaningful matches that have a genuine potential for love. Whether this is your first real romance or a second chance at love, Project Soulmate is passionate to help you meet your other half. LORI ZASLOW – www.twitter.com/lorizaslow Lori Zaslow loves a good project. Especially the kind that requires a little initiative, creativity and some serious networking. Now, if a project involves making someone happy, or perhaps making two people happy, Lori will use her expert matchmaking abilities to take on this mission! Lori had spent 12 years as an executive recruiter, most recently for the powerhouse family of companies including JBCStyle (http://www.JBCStyle.com) focusing on the fashion and retail industries. With an unlimited source of energy, optimism and dedication, she has put hundreds of women and men into their dream jobs. Now it’s her time to focus this talent on connecting two people on a more personal level. Outside of work, Lori juggles motherhood, an amazing 11 year marriage and hundreds of friendships from every life experience. Lori has formed lasting connections with everyone she’s met in life and in turn, they’ve connected her with others, and so on. Lori approaches Project Soulmate with an old-fashioned business sense. There is no substitute for face time. Relationships need to be nurtured. Honesty and integrity are important. And everyone deserves a shot. JENNIFER ZUCHER – www.twitter.com/jennzucher Jennifer Zucher believes she has the best job in the world – She spends her days finding people the love they deserve, and does it alongside her best friend and closest confidant. She mixes honesty and enthusiasm with keen interpersonal and negotiating skills. With a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management from New York University’s Stern School of Business, Jennifer mastered the Manhattan real estate landscape for over 12 years as a principal at Plaza Real Estate Group (http://www.plazagroupnyc.com). Beginning Project Soulmate with her childhood friend feels like natural extension of that endeavor. Jennifer’s passion for matchmaking was inspired by her obsession with asking how couples met. She has been the inciting force behind many relationships in her personal life and loves to give advice to her friends, family and most importantly her clients. Jennifer currently resides in New York City with her husband, Ron Zucher and two children ages 4 and 2. Outside of work, she is a passionate philanthropist and donates any free time to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. “I come across many interesting, celebrated and inspirational people as part of the UCW Radio Show and my other endeavors, I must say that Lori and Jenn are two amazing women who are two sides of the same coin making for a winning combination. Their drive and enthusiasm along with their business acumen puts them high on the list of people to look to for inspiration if one needed a confidence boost as they started Project Soulmate in the red and now its a thriving success.” stated Louis Velazquez UCW Radio Show Host www.projectsoulmate.com www.bravotv.com/love-broker
IFBB Professional Bodybuilder Mark Alvisi
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_markalvisi_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Mark Alvisi, a first generation Italian American, was born January 12, 1977 in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The Alvisi family originally from Abruzzi, Italy moved to the United States in 1962. They planted their roots in Coatesville, Pennsylvania where Mark was raised. From his earliest memories, Mark was extremely athletic as a kid; he played many sports and excelled in Martial Arts. At 12 years old he ran across some bodybuilding magazines that made an indelible impression on him. This is when the seed was planted and the love of bodybuilding began. Mark would dabble with weight lifting in his home basement even though he didn’t have much in the way of real equipment. This lasted through his teens until he graduated high school at 18 years old and joined the Army. While in the Army he completed basic training, Advanced Individual Training and Airborne school. It was in the Army that he had the ability to weight train regularly since he now had access to a real gym. Not only was he quick to develop physically, but he also developed an unshakeable work ethic that would eventually carry over into his bodybuilding career. He successfully completed his term of service in Fort Bragg, North Carolina in 3rd Special Forces Group Support Command as a Sergeant E-5. Upon completion of his term he made the move to South Florida. Once in Florida he was exposed to the competition side of the sport for the first time and was convinced by the head trainer of his gym, a NPC judge and IFBB Pro, that he should compete. Mark, competitive in nature, made the decision to compete in his first bodybuilding contest in April of 2001. That proved to be a very wise decision as he won the Overall at his inaugural show. After that victory, Mark Alvisi was hooked. He went on to obtain Professional status in the NABF and Musclemania organizations before switching to the NPC in 2003. Mark’s rock like work ethic finally paid off in July of 2009 where he won the Overall at the NPC USA Championships and earned his IFBB Professional status. Mark has had many incredible opportunities since 2001 when he began his career. He has worked for various sports nutrition and publication companies such as Gaspari Nutrition and Muscular Development since that time in either sales or as a sponsored athlete. Mark’s visibility and fan base is wide reaching and spans the globe due to the marketing efforts of Gaspari Nutrition. The culmination of his growing popularity and industry contacts is leading Mark into an exciting new direction. In October 2010, he opened his first sports nutrition store in Delray Beach, Florida. This premiere store is named Pro Sports Nutrition. Websites: www.ProSportsNutritionOnline.com www.markalvisi.com www.twitter.com/markalvisi www.revivesciences.com
The Vanessa Riddle Story with Chris Riddle
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_chris_vanessariddle_interviewucw_complete.mp3 VANESSA’S JOURNEY BY CHRIS & CONNIE RIDDLE In Feb 2009 our then 8 yr. old daughter Vanessa, was diagnosed with Stage 4 (High-Risk) Neuroblastoma, a very rare, aggressive and difficult to treat form of childhood cancer. Fewer than 100 children in the UK are diagnosed with neuroblastoma each year, most of which are below 5 yrs. old and generally have a better prognosis as the older the child is the worse the prognosis is. Since Feb 09, Vanessa has undergone many different treatments at Yorkhill Hospital in Glasgow, these include; 12 rounds of High Dose Chemotherapy, two 7 hour surgical operations, removal of one of her kidneys, a stem cell transplant, Radiotherapy, Retinoic Acid treatment and Immunotherapy treatment……all of which was agonising to watch as parents never mind to have to endure as a child! Having undergone all this difficult and often very painful treatment the fact remained that due to a high relapse rate the long term prognosis for Vanessa’s survival remained very poor with less than a 40% survival rate. All the same, Vanessa finished her treatment at Yorkhill Hospital in Aug 2010 and was given the all clear. In Dec 2011 after routine scans, Connie and I were given the devastating news that Vanessa had relapsed. She has many hotspots on the skull, neck, spine, leg & knees. The UK doctors have told us that this time round there is very little chance of survival; “much less than 10%” they said, as we do not have any relapse protocols in the UK. This is due to the Government not investing any money into relapse treatments for this disease. This is a very different story to the United States & Europe where there are many relapse protocols and taking her there will dramatically increase her chances of long term survival. We now find ourselves in the position of urgently having to take Vanessa abroad for relapse therapy treatment which the NHS will not fund. The treatment Vanessa requires is likely to involve Antibody Therapy and cost in excess of £500,000. Vanessa’s latest scan results will be used to determine which therapy is best. Please help us to raise the funds in order to save Vanessa’s life. Every single penny counts, no matter how little. Thank you for reading and donating Chris & Connie Riddle Websites: www.twitter.com/vanessariddle ,www.twitter.com/chrisriddle17 www.vanessasjourney.com
Hip Hop Superstar Lil Scrappy
J-Bo, Lil Jon, & Too Short made cameo appearances in the video, which premiered January 25, 2007 on BET’s 106 & Park as a New Joint. The song also received significant air play on various urban stations. In late 2008 Lil Scrappy announced that his second studio album would not be released under G-Unit Records or other former label BME Records. Lil Scrappy’s first independent album, Prince of the South, was released on May 13, 2008 through Real Talk Entertainment. The Grustle In early 2009 Lil Scrappy’s announced the title of for his second studio album, Tha Grustle & that he had signed with Ludacris label DTP & it would be distributed through Def Jam. Also in 2009 Lil Scrappy appeared in the motion picuture Just Another Day the tale of the brutal realities of rap music, Scrappy plays a character named Jay. Lil Scrappy’s second independent album, Prince of the South 2, was released on October 19, 2010 through Real Talk Entertainment just like his first independent album. On September 8, 2009 Lil Scrappy released the first single from the album entitled “Addicted To Money” but it failed to reach the Billboard charts so it was dubbed as a promo single. Then On September 28, 2010 Lil Scrappy released the first single from the album “Bad (That’s Her)” which featured Stuey Rock but it also failed to reach the billboard charts so it was dubbed as promo single. On November 2, 2011 after the album never saw an official release, Lil Scrappy announced that the album would be released in early 2012. Lil Scrappy also announced that he and DTP had parted ways and that his G’s Up imprint has partnered with S-Line, a company owned by Lil Scappy’s manager Kevin Clark. G’s Up/S-Line has embarked in a joint venture with Bonzi Records, a label owned by platinum producer J. Wells & will be distributed by Fontana/Universal. The official first single from the album will be “Helicopter” that features 2 Chainz & Twista. The music video premiered on MTV Jams, and was directed by Edgar Esteves. Lil Scrappy’s latest single ‘No Love’ featuring Atlanta’s own Tocarra is featured in the interview. ‘Tha Grustle’ to be released June 26, 2012 don’t miss it!! Keep track of Lil Scrappy as him and Kevin Clark of S-Line Entertainment and the rest of the Grustle Gang take the rest of 2012 by storm making history in Hip Hop once again, his OFFICAL Twitter account is www.twitter.com/reallilscrappy
IFBB Figure Pro Felicia Romero
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_feliciaromero_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Felicia Romero is an IFBB Figure Pro and Sponsored Athlete. She is a native of Arizona, born and raised there, growing playing sports and has always been involved with health and fitness. Felicia ran track and played volleyball and softball in High School and College, her family is extremely athletic so it was only natural for her to excel in sports. She graduated from ASU in 2004 with a B.A. degree in Political Science and aspirations for law school. But during her years in college she became a certified personal trainer and opened up her first personal training studio in Mesa, AZ. Felicia first became a trainer to help get her through college financially, but as the business flourished it became a big part of her life. She says that she has always loved fitness but when she helped change the bodies and lives of so many women, she knew that was really where she wanted to focus her attention. “I entered my first figure competition in 2005 and I loved everything about it. I loved the lifestyle; I loved the mental toughness that I had gained as well as the ability to really transform my body with diet and exercise. From there, I competed in three more competitions and the last being my first national pro show in 2006 in Las Vegas. I took first place in my class and turned pro. I couldn’t believe that I had turned pro at my very first national show. That moment was truly a great moment in my life because I wasn’t expecting that at all. I didn’t set out to turn pro… I just really loved competing. Although getting my pro card was definitely icing on the cake.” said Felicia. Her life has been in constant positive change since turning pro. She has won FIVE pro shows, the most recent being the 2011 California Pro. Top 4 in the 2011 Figure International, top 5 Figure International 2009 and 2010 Top 5 in the world at the 2010 Ms. Figure Olympia. Felicia has been featured in such publications as Muscle and Fitness, Muscle and Fitness Hers, Oxygen and Flex Magazines. In 2008 Felicia landed two magazine covers….one for Muscle and Fitness hers and one for the Flex swimsuit issue and her 3rd cover in 2009 for Flex magazine’s annual swimsuit issue. One of the highlights to date has been gracing the cover of Oxygen magazine in April 2012 and Status Fitness magazine. “Currently, my business partner Whitney Jones and I have opened up AZ Pro Physiques in Gilbert, Arizona. It is a 6000 sq ft studio where we do one on one training as well as group personal training. We have 18 trainers that work for us and have helped hundreds of men and women lose weight and keep it off!! ” said Felicia. “Felicia is a definite example of not taking no for an answer and believing in yourself, her Mom has been her biggest fan and she showed her daughter that life is what you make of it. She has made her own path in her fitness career and academic activities and now she is prepared to take on new challenges whether it be in modeling, fitness or even the world of Hollywood. I have no doubt that she will accomplish whatever she sets her mind to, just look at what she has done to date, the future is very bright for this champion,” stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.azprophysiques.com www.twitter.com/FeliciaRomero www.facebook.com/FeliciaRomeroOnline
Reality Show Star/Casting Agent Erika Landin
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_erikalandin_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Erika Michelle Landin is best known to the masses for her appearance on two seasons of the reality TV show Big Brother, placing fourth in Big Brother 4 in 2003 and placing second in Big Brother: All-Stars in 2006. After Big Brother 4, along with other reality show participants, she appeared in the movie The Scorned, which was aired on the E! TV channel and distributed on DVD. Landin played Sandra in the horror movie, about a group of young adults coming upon a house possibly inhabited by a (thought to be) dead woman. Previously, in 1998, Landin had a minor appearance in the film Dance with Me as a dancer. Landin has also appeared in numerous commercials, and has been on the cover of “Femme Fatales” magazine. Landin is now involved in reality show casting with the firm the Casting Duo, she has casted such reality based show as Survivor 12-16, The Amazing Race 9-21 just recently cast the next Bachelor (Matt Grant) and has worked on shows such as MasterChef, Millionaire Matchmaker, Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, The Fashion Show and The Cougar. “Erika is a definite example of someone that took an opportunity that was put in her lap and saw through the facade to produce a true career opportunity and she is taking her reality show experience and putting it to good use by casting awesome people for some of the highest ranking reality shows on television today, she is a success in every way,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.castingduo.com To apply to be casted for her latest projects see below
Actor, Director & Krav Maga Specialist AJ Draven
A.J. Draven, is the recent winner of the Breakout Action Star Award for his leading role in Showtime’s, ‘Special Ops’ at the Action-On Film Festival. While proficient in various martial arts (Muay Thai Kick Boxing, MMA, and Eskrima) A.J. has risen to the top of one of the most successful self defense and fighting organizations in the United States, Krav Maga Worldwide, where he holds a 3rd degree Black Belt and started the official Krav Maga youth program (KM-X), which is now in over 400 martial arts schools across the world. An expert in both street and military combat tactics, A.J. has trained both Civilians and Law Enforcement Personnel, ranging from LAPD, Beverly Hills SWAT, Army, Air Force, Secret Service, FBI, private security, and various special assignment Anti-Terrorist units. He has now coordinated and choreographed the martial arts in 4 feature films, and has trained and choreographed actors for various television shows including ABC’s ‘Alias’, ‘Being Human,’ ‘Raising Hope’, and ‘The League’, as well as performing stunts and motion capture for popular video game titles such as HALO 4. As an Actor, A.J. has now played the lead role in 3 feature films, and has multiple starring vehicles in various stages of development. Prior to his award winning performance in ‘Special Ops’ (Showtime), A.J. had played the lead role in ‘The Thirst, Blood Wars,’ which currently airs on the Syfy Channel and the Chiller Network. He also has one of the leads in the feature film Absolute Fear, which is released in November 2012. Websites: www.enterthedraven.com www.twitter.com/JohnnyBadAss
Comedian/Actress/Writer Rebecca Corry
Rebecca has shot pilots for CBS, FOX, ESPN, GSN, OXYGEN and was a guest on LOGOS The Gossip Queens and was the new face of 4 international HERTZ spot playing the GAS alongside Owen Wilson as the voice. Rebecca says she understood funny, “when I came out of my mother’s womb thinking… what is this? Some kind of joke?” She was born and raised in the Seattle suburb of Kent, Washington…or as she likes to call it, “the El Camino-driving, hot dog water loving, one-toothed pregnant teen capital of the world.” Rebecca lived in Chicago for 9 years, where she studied writing, acting and improvisation at The Second City, Annoyance and Center Theater. After an 11-month run in the Chicago production of Tony and Tina’s Wedding as the pregnant maid of honor, Corry moved to Los Angeles. Immediately following her arrival she appeared at the HBO workspace in her first one-woman show, “Have You Ever Been Called a Dwarf?”, hosted a pilot for the Oxygen Network and was chosen to perform as a “New Face” at the Montreal Comedy Festival. Shortly after that, she landed a memorable role as Paul Giamatti’s receptionist, Astrid Barker, in the feature film “BIG FAT LIAR.” She then guest-starred on CBS’s “Yes, Dear” and was in a national commercial campaign for Gallo wine. Between performing at clubs like The Improv, The Ice House, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and many more, Rebecca hosted the second season of “Mix It Up.” The interior design show created and executive produced by Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette. She went on to guest star on “The King of Queens,” “The Bernie Mac Show,” “The Wayne Brady Show,” NBC’s “Late Friday,” “Comics Unleashed,” E’s 101 series,” Comedy Central’s Premium Blend” and Rules Of Engagement. Her second one woman show “REBECCA CORRY WITH BALLS” was the LA Weekly’s “Comedy Pick of the Week.” Rebecca beat out thousands to become a finalist on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing 4” and currently headlines at universities and clubs around the country. Rebecca’s 1/2 hour COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS special can be seen on Comedy Central and her first one hour special Thanks, God, is available now on DVD! Currently, Rebecca is commenting on VH1’s TOP 100 SEXY SINGERS. Rebecca’s true passions are comedy and animal rescue and she travels the country with her beautiful rescued Pitbull named Angel. If you see them in your town or on your plane…be sure to say hello! “Rebecca is not only a true entertainer but she uses that star power to do good in the world, her heart is as big as her future and thats pretty big, its always good to know that one person has the ability to invoke some change for the better in the world, this is something that this comedian/actress strives to do and I commend her for it” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rebeccacorry.com www.twitter.com/therebeccacorry http://www.youtube.com/user/518rebecca Check out 2 Manly Ladies at: www.swirlaroo.com
Travel Channel’s Food Wars Host Camille Ford
Camille is presently the host of Design Wars on HGTV, The Movie Show for In Demand, Food Wars and Best Places I’ve Ever Been on Travel Channel. Aside from being a TV personality, she is an Ambassador for Lululemon, Adventure Guide, advocate for human rights, and owner of Sassy Pole Girls (featured on MTV & TLC). She is also ranked in the Top 100 Sexiest female celebrities for 2011 and 2012 by Smartasses.net She is an award-winning producer and performer for various radio programs, theater, webisodes, standup comedy, commercials, and independent films. Receiving multiple Innovative Theatre Award nominations. She was recognized in Time Out Magazine for most promising actor and was listed in NY Magazine’s “Top Picks”. She has also worked with notable chefs, personalities, and athletes. Her passion for is for life, food, and learning is contagious. She has been mentioned in a multitude of websites, articles, and books. Within 2 months of her first show being on air she had 30,000+ followers on Facebook. Her goal: “Inspire people to get hungry for life! Mentally and physically challenging others is my greatest pleasure. Whether it’s on a plate, in a classroom, or up a mountain; humor, knowledge, and compassion are vital for building successful communities and individuals”. Some favorite activities and favorite places: Spelunking (Honduras), Scaling glaciers (Iceland), Moose hunting (Canada), Backpacking (Hawaii), Motorcycle riding (Egypt), Kayaking (Jordan River), Rock climbing (Zion canyon), Sailing (Croatia), Cattle wrangling (Arizona), Women’s rugby, Competitive soccer, Beach volleyball, trail running, backcountry skiing, skydiving, DWS, scuba… you get the idea. “Cammie is such a dynamite person, her view on life is something that everyone can learn from, live life to the fullest. Her future just continues to get brighter and brighter, from TV to off Broadway to the bookshelves and your local video store, you’re going to hear a lot about Camille Ford in the months and years to come , she’s what others should look to when they want to be inspired”, stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.camillefordofficialsite.com www.twitter.com/camiford http://www.sassypolegirls.com/
Host and Actress Pili Montilla
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_pilimontilla_interviewucw.mp3 Without a doubt, Pili Montilla is the new latina. She represents biculturalism & bilingualism in a smart, approachable, energetic way. Her strengths include her interviewing skills, power to entertain in front of a live audience, unique personality and her music, fashion and entertainment knowledge. These strengths have led her to interview the biggest music and movie artists in the world. Actress and host, Pili has incredible presence and a charming personality. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico Pili has shown a great interest in the arts from a very early age. With a B.A. in Dramatic Arts from Boston College and performing art studies from Oxford University, University of London, M& M Studios in Mexico City, Cay Michael Patten Studios in New York City and Puerto Rico, Pili has the discipline, the personality and most importantly the desire to rise to the top. For over two years Pili was the host of LATV’s entertainment show, En la Zona. Pili was also the host of LATV’s famous show LATV En Concierto where she interviewed an invited artist (Julieta Venegas, Cristian Castro, Luis Fonsi, are a few examples) for a half hour in front of a live audience. Pili has had the chance to travel and cover important events such as Festival de la Calle 8 in Miami, Los Premios Billboard, Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) and the Latin Grammys. She also covers red carpets and junkets for important films like ‘Valentine’s Day’ (Ashton Kutcher), ‘Edge of Darkness’ (Mel Gibson) & ‘The Blind Side’ (Sandra Bullock), among many other films and artists. Pili helped create www.sonidolounge.com where she hosted and produced this half hour broadband music show. Before moving to Los Angeles, Pili was seen daily as the main VJ for MTV PR for two years. It was here where she hosted various segments and programs: Fashion & Beauty Tips, MTV PR News, Top Ten Countdown, interviews, voiceovers and the movie segment Flick’d. Pili was responsible for the research, writing and memorizing the content of these segments. She was also called upon to host different specials, such as MTV 2’s $2 Bill Concert in the Bronx, New York, MTV PR’s My Barrio and the Green Carpet at Los Premios MTV in Mexico City. Her ability to make artists and celebrities feel comfortable has earned her the opportunity to interview some of the hottest Latin and international artists including Ricky Martin, Gwen Steffani, Daddy Yankee, Hillary Duff, Calle 13, Shakira and Nelly Furtado among others. Formally trained as a dancer and actress, Pili has appeared in numerous entertainment venues. Some of her projects have included a recurring role as the villain Nancy in the soap opera Duena y Senora and Telemundo‘s Decisiones. She has also participated in various theater productions as well as musicals. She received great critic reviews for her performance as Judy in the musical A Chorus Line. Her role as Isabel on the soap Don Amor for Canal 13-Chile caused great commotion and quickly grabbed the attention of the press. Pili is also a radio personality. In fact she is the only female voice of one of Puerto Rico’s most popular radio station, Toca de To 102.5 where she has been hosting the ’20 Online’ radio show for four years. Her presence has raised the show’s ratings making it #1 in it’s category. Currently, Pili works for the new Direct TV channel ‘Video Exitos’ where she host their daily show ‘Top DS’ and gets to interview the biggest names in Latin music. She is also the Hollywood correspondent for VMe TV’s movie show, ‘En Pantalla.’ Her fame has extended to Honduras where she is the spokesperson for the #1 local beer, SAB Miller’s Barena. Her relationship with the brand extends to hosting their biggest events, interviewing and filming segments and commercials for the brand. This experience lead her to work for E! Latino and their show ‘It’s Hot!’ Her experience as an entertainment reporter and actor has helped her expand her brand to Mexico where she was approached by the editor of the fastest growing newspaper in the world, ‘Publimetro’ to write a weekly column titled ‘Pili. . .desde Hollywood’. It has been an enormous success and it is now published in Monterrey and Mexico City. Pili’s poise in front of the camera has also led to various hosting gigs for different clients such as 5 Gum, AXE, Sunsilk, Burger King, Fiji Water among others. However, Pili also expresses concern for the youth and society in general. Thus, she’s participated as spokesperson for the National Heart Day, John Dewey College Campaign coaching high school kids to pursue a college degree and Si Bebes, No Guies campaign promoting young men and women not to drink and drive. She is also a spokesperson for ‘Voces’ a non-profit organization that helps the public education system in Puerto Rico by rebuilding school structures, giving monetary incentive to teachers & motivating students. She is fully bilingual in both Spanish and English and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. www.pilimontilla.com www.twitter.com/pilimontilla
Wall Street Journal’s Lee Hawkins
Lee Hawkins is a Wall Street Journal staff reporter and has been an on-air contributor at CNBC Television as part of The Journal’s content sharing agreement with the network since 2007. He is also author of Newbo Nation: America’s New Black Overclass where he addresses the new generation of black entrepreneurs in the sports, entertainment and media industries who have arisen in the last decade to create the largest population of black multimillionaires in history. It includes statistical and earnings data related blacks in the three industries and in-depth narrative reporting based on the lives of several of the most influential young black celebrities and behind-the-scenes entrepreneurs in America. The book will be launched during the NBA Finals. Hawkins is the host of the primetime one-hour documentary with the same title, Newbos: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass, which is based on some of the reporting from his book. Hawkins hopes to spark a national conversation about the role of black celebrities in the Obama age. The television special and the book call for a new era of entrepreneurship, collaboration, intergenerational mentorship, educational advancement, social awareness and accountability within this growing class. The project inspires, encourages and educates the millions of young Americans who hope to build brands, businesses and careers in the sports, entertainment and media industries. Previously, Hawkins covered General Motors Corp. from the Detroit bureau for The Journal. He began the assignment with CNBC after appearing frequently on CNBC as a guest commentator. Prior to covering GM and the challenges facing America’s Big Three automakers, Hawkins worked as a business reporter for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and the Wisconsin State Journal. Hawkins is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he was the editorial page editor of the Badger Herald student newspaper. “Lee is one of those people that looks beyond the obvious and tries to bring the human element into his journalism, showing you a side of celebrities or sports figures that normally you won’t see and those are the stories that inspire people not the sound bytes that make headlines, he’s a path maker and look forward to seeing his future shine bright for years to come”, stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.youtube.com/user/WSJDigitalNetwork www.twitter.com/leehawkins
DIY Mega Dens Host Anitra Mecadon
Highly charismatic, on the cutting edge and not afraid to get her hands dirty, Anitra Mecadon has designed some of the most well-known, hip, and edgy restaurants, residences, boutiques, galleries, and other spaces in Atlanta for the past 10 years. With a strong background in art and theater, combined with a degree in interior design, she creates inspiring interiors and exteriors. Whether she’s dangling from a scaffold or breaking down a concrete wall, Anitra’s rock ‘n’ roll approach gives her an edge not usually found in most designers. On DIY Network’s Mega Dens, Anitra designs and builds the ultimate rec room sanctuaries that exceed any family’s wildest imagination. These unbelievable room renovations feature incredible home theaters, innovative gaming areas, clever storage solutions and more. She had dreams at a young age to be able to grow in the entertainment business doing what she loves to do and using her creativity. Her story is one of persistence and it was a by chance video submission that landed her in front of a decision maker that said this girl is a star, and a star she has become tackling whatever obstacles come her way. Anitra is a prime example of someone never giving up on their dream and she never has given up on it and now she is living her dream. She is going to become a staple in the DIY and actually reality TV realm for some time to come. “Anitra Mecadon is by far one of the most grounded and sensational guests that I have had on the show, her vibrancy and zest not only for life but for what she does for a living is uncanny. If I had to make a comparison I would say that Anitra is to DIY that Rachel Ray has been for the Food Network, she is a definite gem” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.anitramecadon.com http://www.diynetwork.com/anitra-mecadon/bio/index.html www.twitter.com/anitramecadon
Actor, Author and Acclaimed Keynote Speaker James Mapes
James Mapes is the founder of Quantum Leap Thinking™, creator of The Transformational Coach™, expert on the psychology of “applied imagination,” best- selling author, highly acclaimed business speaker, consultant, seminar leader and personal excellence coach. For over 30 years, James has been an ardent student of human behavior and dedicated to helping individuals, teams and organizations identify and break through barriers to reach their goals and achieve success. He encourages people to be open to new ways of thinking, and his goal is to help everyone make the “quantum leap” toward more creative, productive and confident lives. For both businesses and individuals, his message promotes an innovative, powerful way of thinking and provides a new-found mastery over their imagination and perceptions so that, in his words, “the invisible becomes visible and the impossible becomes possible.” The results have been nothing short of extraordinary, creating key breakthroughs in both organizational and personal excellence. James Mapes’ success as a speaker and highly regarded authority on the imagination, creative thinking, communication, managing change, organizational problem-solving, successful teamwork and coaching is due to his early training as an actor and experience as a theatrical producer. In 1969, he graduated from California State University with a Master of Arts degree in theater and speech. He then worked in repertory theater, off-Broadway and directed two of his own theater companies, amassing dozens of television and movie credits. As a performer, he developed a unique stage presence with a special talent for connecting with his audience. Mapes’ work has earned him appearances on CNN, The Today Show, Good Morning America and Fox Family Channel, among other media outlets. As a recognized business speaker and performance coach, James has spoken to hundreds of public and private companies in more than 70 countries. His clients include financial institutions, software companies, the military, the healthcare industry, financial institutions, training and development divisions of large corporations and major non-profit organizations. Companies, associations, universities and business schools including – IBM Corporate, U.S. Coast Guard, Lockheed Martin and The Princeton Center for Leadership Training – have quoted Mapes in training manuals and textbooks. James Mapes personal goal of living an exceptional life is reflected in both his business activities as well as his recreational pursuits, which range from scuba-diving, ballooning, racecar driving, Kempo Karate, and world travel, to an avid interest in reading. His two highly regarded books areQuantum Leap Thinking: An Owner’s Guide to the Mind and The Workbook: The Magic of Quantum Leap Thinking. His new book The Elephant and the Rider: Living an Exceptional Life is scheduled for publication in 2012. James Mapes presentations are personal, interactive and humorous. Above all, he creates results and makes a lasting difference in the energy level, commitment and productivity of each individual in his audience. In the 1970′s, James became interested in the power of the subconscious mind. To better understand this intriguing area, he researched psychology, philosophy, neurology and eventually, hypnotherapy Neuro-Linguistic Programming. His expertise quickly earned him recognition as a clinical hypnotist, becoming highly effective in assisting clients in weight reduction, smoking cessation, the elimination of phobias and pain reduction for terminally ill cancer patients. As a skilled practitioner of regression techniques, he helped the New York City Police Department in “memory recovery” with both witnesses to, and victims of, crime and he has worked with professional athletes to help improve their performance in their sport. James Mapes has created an ongoing series of self-improvement audio recordings and writes a syndicated newspaper column for Hearst newspapers in Connecticut and The Arizona Reporter. James also enjoys presenting his one-man show, Journey Into the Imagination at performing arts centers and universities around the country. He appeared on Broadway in 2003 and presented A Whirlwind Tour of the Mind at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in Manhattan in 2007. When not touring, James and his wife divide their time between residences in Westport, Connecticut, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Websites: www.jamesmapes.com www.twitter.com/jamesmapes
TV Sitcom Star/Minister Demond Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_demondwilson_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have one of the stars of the hit TV sitcom of the 1970’s, “Sanford & Son” on the show. Demond Wilson along with his co-star Redd Foxx set the entertainment world on fire during the 1970’s by opening up doors that were closed for African Americans, in short they were pioneers. Growing up with great direction for his parents Wilson set out on a journey which put God first in his life, with his family at a close second and his career, ministry or entertainment, dead last. Demond Wilson was born in Valdosta, Ga., on Oct. 13, 1946. His parents were South Georgia natives. Early in childhood his family relocated to New York, where the future TV star began acting on-stage at the age of six. Between appearances on Broadway and growing up in Manhattan, he would visit his grandmother and relatives back in Georgia each summer. He loved to go fishing for catfish in the local creek, and along with his cousins he sold boiled peanuts at the Valdosta train station. As his acting career was blossoming, Uncle Sam came calling. Wilson was drafted into the Army, and was sent south to Ft. Jackson, S.C., Ft. Lee, Va., and Ft. Gordon, Ga. Vietnam was his ultimate destination. He became a decorated soldier during his tour of duty in 1966. “I was a warrior. At 62, I’m still a warrior. I’m a warrior for Jesus in the army of the Lord. But when you got to Vietnam, everybody was your brother. The staunchest redneck racist became your brother, because you have to depend on each other to stay alive.” Upon returning to the States, Wilson was blindsided by the anti-war movement, which yelled at him for wearing his uniform and showcasing his medals. He had a hard time getting a job, and decided to give the profession he’d been tinkering with since childhood an all-out try. It worked. Wilson earned the role of “Charlie Blossom” in the 1971 Sidney Poitier film The Organization, which was filmed in San Francisco. This westward move soon led to a cameo as a comedic burglar in an episode of All In The Family. The producers of a new NBC sitcom caught Wilson’s performance on the Carroll O’Connor comedy, and invited him to audition for a role that would forever change his life. The pilot episode of Sanford And Son was shot in the fall of 1971, and debuted to impressive ratings on Jan. 14, 1972. The show’s unforgettable opening, complete with a catchy Quincy Jones theme song, features Wilson driving around in a beat-up 1951 Ford pickup truck, emblazoned with a “Sanford And Son” logo on the side. The rising actor played the role of “Lamont Sanford,” alongside Missouri comedian Redd Foxx, who played the role of “Fred G. Sanford,” a junk peddler in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. He and Foxx had not known each other before the show, but they quickly bonded and their relationship on and off-screen was magical. Wilson writes about this in his new book, Second Banana: The Bitter Sweet Memoirs Of The Sanford And Son Years. A successful comedic pairing requires a clown and straight man, Wilson points out. He played the straight man perfectly on this sitcom, which rose to No. 2 in the ratings during its 1972-77 run. Sanford And Son was the first black TV show to hit the ratings jackpot. However, the Norman Lear-produced show did require some tinkering by Wilson and Foxx. A team of mostly Jewish writers penned the show, and the dialogue of each episode had to be re-written and ad-libbed by the black actors. Almost 40 years after the show premiered, it continues to air in syndication in over 40 countries around the world. TV Land broadcasts the show to over 93 million U.S. homes. The success of Sanford And Son has led to many falsehoods about Wilson, rumors that he addresses in the new book. He says that he thought once and for all he would set it straight and tell the truth. He was never addicted to cocaine, and he didn’t become angry and chase Lear down the hall with a gun, a rumor that gives him a good laugh. After Sanford And Son ended in 1977, Wilson appeared on other TV shows, including Baby, I’m Back, and The New Odd Couple. Wilson’s small screen gigs took a back seat in the 1980s when he became an evangelical minister. He’s traveled the world to spread the Gospel. He’s also led a prison ministry. In recent months Wilson has come out of acting hibernation, where he’s combined his love of the Lord with acting in the forthcoming Christian movie Faith Ties, which is kind of a black version of It’s A Wonderful Life. He stars in the role of a millionaire that loses everything and becomes a homeless drunk. In Palm Desert, the Southern Californian with a Southern upbringing lives with his wife of 36 years, Cicely. The couple have six children, and three grandchildren. “Demond Wilson is one of the classiest guys in Entertainment, his view on life and entrepreneurship in America should be listen to by many people wondering what is that disconnect in today’s America. His commitment to God and Family, and his trials and tribulations that he went through as he and Redd Foxx laid the groundwork for other African Americans to excel in the entertainment business is not only impressive but very much so downplayed by the media. I have to say after speaking with him I gained a respect for him as a person which will never wither,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. “Demond Wilson’s book Second Banana is a must read for anyone that truly wants to know how he and Redd Foxx paved the way for African Americans in the TV arena,” Velazquez added. Websites: http://www.2ndbanana.net/ www.demondwilson.com www.twitter.com/demondwilson
Comedian / Actor / Producer Dexter Tucker
Dexter Tucker is An Actor, Comedian, Producer and Writer from Decatur, GA and are a mere sampling of adjectives to describe a man with so many talents. Dexter Tucker’s hilarious and charming comedy style has granted him respect and created a huge demand for him on the comedy circuit in the states as well as abroad. He has starring roles in movies such as “The Comedy Club”, “Black Men Can Swim”, “Playa in the Pulpit”, and “Treasure in the Hood”. He has graced the stage in an inspirational play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man”, “If You Don’t Tell, I Won’t Tell”, starring Don “DC Curry” and Gary “Lil G” Jenkins (SILK). “Money Talk”, “So Fresh & So Clean”, and “My Big Phat Hiphop Family” and coming soon to theatres in the fall of 2009 “Lynch Mob” are a list of Dexter’s featured movies roles. Currently Dexter is producing, directing and starring in the up coming blockbuster movie “The Comedy Club” due to premier in theaters late 2011, early 2012. In addition to these various roles, Dexter is the writer and creative director behind this hilarious film starring Chrystale Wilson, Shae Johnson, comedian Honey Bunz and an all-star cast of nationally known comics. dexter has taken his talents further and had stepped behind the cameras and is the writer and director of a reality show call DreamGirls of the ATL. Dexter has entertained the comedy stage throughout the U.S. such as The Comedy Union in Los Angeles, The Miami Improv Comedy Club, Atlanta’s Uptown Comedy Corner and Punchline Comedy Club and Birmingham’s Stardome Comedy Club just to name a few. Dexter is currently touring with the play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man” and also with various other entertainers doing what he loves the most, Comedy. He has appeared on the Tom Joyner’s Fantastic Voyage Cruise 2007. In the past years, he was the host for the Gerald Levert/Will Downing Tour and also for Chastain Park, Patti Labelle Concert Tour and Frankie Beverly and Maze featuring EnVogue concert tour in Atlanta, GA. Dexter has entertained audiences on the nation’s hottest comedy TV shows; BET’S Comicview and HBO’s Robert Townsend: Partner in Crime. Dexter Tucker is a rising star. A force to be reckoned with, he has a natural born gift of entertainment. Dexter continues to entertain audiences with joyful tears and laughter as he showcases his talent to the world. Websites: www.dextertucker.com
Actress / Model / Humanitarian Cassandra Hepburn
Cassandra Hepburn was born to an English military official named Lewis and a Chinese/Philippine mother Nellie on a small island off the coast of the Philippines called Leyte Island. At an early age Cassandra decided that acting was her life’s calling. She was only 12 when she made her acting debut in Stephen King’s “The Stand.” After graduating High School at 14, she moved to New York to fully devote herself to the perfection of her craft, this led to a brief stint on the popular daytime soap “As The World Turns.” Cassandra eventually moved to Paris to model with some of the top designers in the world. She graced the modeling scene and worked for designers such as Sonia Rykiel while living and studying in France. In 1999, Cassandra also spent some time at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) taking courses in Classical and Shakespearean acting. She has shared the screen with Dennis Hopper and Michael Madsen in Quentin Tarantino Presents: Hellride directed by Larry Bishop (Kill Bill) which was the most anticipated film at Sundance in 2008. She worked alongside Matthew McConaughey in Surfer Dude playing Woody Harrelson’s wife, Luanne. Cassandra has also worked with such stars as Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger and Ray Liota in Even Money directed by Mark Rydell, as well as a supporting role in Sydney Lumet’s Find Me Guilty, starring Vin Diesel. Cassandra has also made a number of appearances on the small screen, the most notable to date being a guest star in the TV series Medium, starring Patricia Arquette as well as a reoccurring role on The Young and the Restless. “Cassandra is what most should aspire to be, someone that not only wanted to be a dreamer but wanted to live her dreams while doing good in the world, her off screen efforts is what makes her an amazing person, I am honored to know her and look forward to seeing this shinning start illuminate brighter than ever before.” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.cassandrahepburn.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1141576/bio
Actress / Model / Recording Artist Amy Weber
Amy Weber grew up in Mapleton, Illinois before her family relocated to Florida, just before she was to begin high school. Her childhood was hardly idyllic, as she was forced to race motorcycles by her father, who wasn’t the easiest man to disappoint. Still, Weber managed to maintain a healthy high school existence, starring on the varsity track team, the debate team and the cheerleading squad. Although Amy’s parents pressured their daughter to attend university, Amy grew weary of school after her first year at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and decided to drive all the way from Florida to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. Amy Weber’s rise in Hollywood came fast and hard. After arriving in Los Angeles not knowing a single soul, Weber quickly landed an agent, which led to consistent work in commercials for Wrigley’s, 7-Up and Nestea. As her profile started to grow, Weber landed plum roles in the soap operas Port Charles and The Young and the Restless, while guest starring in iconic shows like CSI: Las Vegas, Saved by the Bell, Melrose Place, Pacific Blue, 7th Heaven, and City Guys. Weber’s most famous television role to date has to be that of Porcelain Bidet on the Howard Stern-produced hit FX series, Son of the Beach. After a nationwide search for the next WWE Diva, Amy Weber was selected to join WWE SmackDown. Although she was given a string of meaty plot lines, including a rivalry with Joy Giovanni, and an alliance with John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Weber never felt truly comfortable as a member of the WWE. In 2005, she announced her retirement amid allegations of inappropriate behavior by her fellow wrestlers. After the deflating experience of the WWE, Amy Weber used her augmented profile to book roles in several feature films including The Bet , The Contract, Becoming Pony Boi , Transmorphers, Diablita, and The Pumpkin Karver. She also began Amy Weber Productions, wrote the book An Insider’s Guide to Making It in Show Business, hosted the show Good Samaritans, and even is a recording artist, and in the middle of her busy career she has found the time to have a family and be an awesome mother to her twin children Madison and Levi who just turned 3 years old. Her latest song “Let it Rain” is topping the charts on a global basis and she hopes to perform in front of a massive audience in the very near future, you’ll have to listen to the show to find out more. “I feature many guests on my show and Amy’s story is one of a true warrior, facing adversity at its highest level since childhood but grinning, moving forward and becoming successful in every arena she focused on, it was an honor having her on the show,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.amyweber.com www.twitter.com/therealamyweber
Comedian / Actor / Producer Stevie D
2020 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-06-UCWRadio_StevieD_11052020.mp3 2012 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_stevied_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Stevie D. is a comedian, actor and producer. Stevie has made his mark in the stand-up comedy world with his high energy, rock n roll take of everything from pop culture to what it is was like growing up a white trash hillbilly in Kentucky. Since the release of the successful DVD Rockstars of Comedy, which he produced and created, he has started his own production company, Blue Moon Media Group, that now has television projects in the works with Tommy Lee, UFC Champion- Rich Franklin, HotRod Builder of the Year- Troy Ladd, among others. While building his brand and creating mayhem in Hollywood, Stevie continues his life long quest to put Ryan Seacrest out of business. “Stevie D is one of those Hollywood folk that has faced major adversity in his life but not only forges forward to achieve greatness but he also pays it forward by opening up doors for up and comers, whether it be in comedy, reality TV or film, he is a true path maker in entertainment,” state UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rockstarsofcomedy.com 2021 Interview
Actor/Martial Artist Phil Morris
2021 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_PhilMorris_10152021.mp3 2010 https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_philmorris_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity and honor to have the great actor Phil Morris on the show. Phil Morris is what most people should aspire to be in life, he has tirelessly worked towards perfecting his craft all the while seizes as many opportunities as he could along the way. He has stared in countless films and television series’ and he is still going strong by following the same path that has brought him success, which is hard word, a respect for not only the entertainment business and the art of performing but also for himself by aligning himself with projects with meaning, and its not all about the money with Phil Morris, its about being a part of something greater than himself. He is a man of high integrity and being a Hollywood mainstay has not jaded himself in the least. Although he was around many major television and film stars growing up due to his father, Greg Morris, and his role on Mission Impossible, the original series. Ironically Phil had the unique opportunity to revive that role in Mission Impossible in 1988. He has accomplished so many things during his career its staggering. He has studied Martial Arts for well over 25 years and continues to do so to this day, being a high ranking practitioner in the art of Wing Chun. He is truly a great person, not only for his accomplishments but for his view of the world and his actions, which speak so much louder than his words. More about Phil Morris: Morris played a recurring character, the Johnnie Cochran-inspired defense attorney Jackie Chiles, on Seinfeld. Morris also co-starred in the remake of Mission: Impossible as tech wizard Grant Collier (son of Barney Collier, who was played in the original series by Morris’ real-life father Greg Morris). Morris’ first acting role was as a child when he appeared in the 1966 Star Trek episode “Miri”. Star Trek was, at the time, shot at the same studio that produced Mission: Impossible, where his father was working. He made his feature film debut in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock in a small role and later guest-starred on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager. Morris voiced the supporting role of Dr. Sweet in Disney’s 2001 film Atlantis: The Lost Empire as well as its 2003 sequel, Atlantis: Milo’s Return. Morris played one of Will Smith’s college professors on the NBC show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and played Dr. Clay Spencer on the then-UPN television show Girlfriends. In the January 25, 2007, episode of the CW television series Smallville, Morris also portrayed the DC Comics superhero The Martian Manhunter/John Jones, which is a recurring but small character in the series so far. He reprised that role on the show’s sixth season finale on May 17, 2007, as well as the episodes “Bizarro” and “Cure” in the seventh season and the episodes “Odyssey”, “Prey” and “Bulletproof” in the eighth season. As a voice actor, he portrayed the villains Imperiex on Legion of Superheroes, and as the Immortal Caveman Vandal Savage on Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. He appeared on one episode each of the series CSI: Miami and Seven Days. Though largely unnoticed, Morris also was the voice of Paul the Apostle in Zondervan’s The Bible Experience. Morris also made a cameo appearance as the late Miles Dyson in photographs in the television series Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. He currently voices the character ‘Doc Saturday’ in the animated show The Secret Saturdays. He also played a major supporting role in the PS2 game Ratchet: Deadlocked, Merc, one of the combat bots that accompany Ratchet during his journey. Websites: www.twitter.com/thephilmorris
Award Winning Actor, Writer & Director Jared Cohn
Jared Cohn is an award winning actor/director and writer. Having appeared in over 30 movies and television shows, on various networks throughout the world, Jared works quite a bit in front of the camera. Behind the camera, Jared recently wrote and directed Lifetime’s hit movie, BORN BAD, which stars Michael Welch from Twilight, currently playing on Lifetime and available in Redbox and on Netflix. More on the writing: Jared’s script TRACED won first place in the writemovies.com #27 contest. TRACED is currently in development. Jared just booked the lead role in Peter Proffit’s FEED THE DEVIL which is set to start shooting in May 2012, in Montreal. Jared just wrapped BIKINI SPRING BREAK starring Robert Carradine, filmed in LA. Jared wrote and directed the movie for The Asylum. This will be his 6th Asylum Movie, he acted in 4 and directed two for them. It has been a successful and busy year so far for Mr. Cohn! Websites: www.jaredcohn.com www.twitter.com/TrapLightMedia
Recording Artist From The Future Sidney B
Year:2158. 95% of the human beings are not capable of any emotion. Imagination and dreams are produced artificially. Only a few people far from cities were still resisting, among them scientists…Their only option was to send one of them in the past to prevent the extinction of the human feelings. After decades of hard work ,they finally found the way to travel back in time. A young man was chosen for this crucial mission. His name: Sidney B. He arrived on earth in Nice ,France. Decided to make a revolution using the medium of art. Sidney B started his career in acting. Delving into music, he was part of a rap group called Hors du Com 1 and achieved success selling over 5000 albums. He has composed for numerous hip-hop artists, short film sound tracks and for theatre pieces. He also participated in a project called Armonia with the classical music composer Sebastian Damiani which sold over 500,000 units. He also won the “best in show” award and the “best emerging artist” award at the European indie festival, 2008. Sidney B. traveled the world living in London, Montreal, Miami and Mexico making music with local artists and performing in numerous venues. He even spent a month living in a tribe in small island lost in the pacific. Fishing ,hunting and making music with the indigenous. All this adventures made him a better human and better artist. The Revolution could begin… Sidney B has since found a new home in Toronto, Canada where he’s focusing on his solo career as an artist as well as a producer and songwriter. He worked on upcoming projects for Ludacris, Tamia, Jully Black, Universal Canada and Warner Music. And he’s about to release next summer, his new EP called “Join The Revolution” . The First Single “Can’t fight the Feeling” released in 2010 won the best international pop song at the Toronto exclusive Award. His second single “Boy Toy” will be released May 2011,but is already getting a great buzz all over the web. Websites: www.sidneyb.com
Former Pussycat Doll and Now Solo Recording Artist Kaya Jones
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Recording Artist Kaya Jones on the Show. Kaya Jones, former member of the world famous Pussycat Dolls, is poised for an exciting time as the summer of 2009 closes in. Launching her much anticipated solo album, and performing live shows around the globe, Kaya is developing a strong presence in the realm of new media and positioning herself to become an international pop sensation. Kaya was initially signed as a solo artist by R. Kelly, and Capital Records before attending the open audition for the Pussycat Dolls in 2003. During the week long audition, Kaya out performed over 2,000 girls to land a leading role in the girl group. While with the Dolls, she performed at the MTV Asia Award’s, MTV’s Rock the Vote, VH1’s Diva’s Live, VH1’s Fashion Rocks, and appeared in live performance’s featuring Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Simpson, Gwen Stefani, Fergie, and other world renowned stars. The media hype the Dolls attracted landed them on the magazine covers of Esquire, Interview, Maxim, Stuff, FHM, Blender, Guitar, and Us Weekly. At these photo shoots, Kaya’s exotic looks; Jamaican-Italian heritage, 5’11 height, and natural blonde hair, caught the attention of several major New York modeling executives. In 2006, Kaya left the Pussycat Dolls to pursue a modeling career, and brand herself as a solo musical artist. She appeared in the Eminem/D12 video “How Come”, and was featured in marketing campaigns for Merlin Castell, Mis Cositas, YMI Jeans, Rock & Republic, and Redken. Vocally, Kaya has been credited on the “Alfie”, “Shall We Dance”, and “Shark Tale” movie soundtracks, and was nominated and won a Golden Globe award, with Mick Jagger and Katy Perry, for Old habits die hard” from the “Alfie” movie soundtrack. Kaya’s first new single “Hollywood Doll” was recently released in numerous radio markets throughout North America, and is now available at iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, etc. She has two additional singles debuting in the new American Pie movie, and her album is scheduled for release early next year. “Kaya Jones is one to look out for on the music scene, although she’s going solo she has worked with some of the best in the business for years, beyond being talented and beautiful, she has the smarts to go far as a solo artist, we see great things coming out of this young star, so keep an eye out for her” said Louis Velazquez UCW Radio Host Website: www.kayajonesmusic.com
Natural Mr. Olympia and Author John Hansen
John Hansen is a true Natural Bodybuilder, from the time he was a teenager until his retirement from competitive bodybuilding he has held true to his title of Natural Mr. Olympia. He is the very first bodybuilder to be crowned the Natural Mr. Olympia and that took place in 1998 in Greece. To this day the modern day natural warrior John Hansen continues to wow the crowds with both his accomplishments and his knowledge, from the average Joe to a competitive athlete, Hansen has brought much to the table during his career and beyond. Some of his accomplishments are as follows: Major Wins 1998 Natural Olympia – Professional Division 1996 Natural Mr. Universe – Professional Division 1996 AAU Mr. Illinois – Short Class 1992 Natural Mr. Universe – Overall Winner 1992 Natural Mr. North America – Overall Winner 1992 NPC Natural Illinois – Light Heavyweight Winner 1990 NPC Illinois Cup – Light Heavyweight Winner 1986 NPC Mid-America – Heavyweight Winner 1986 NPC Illinois State Championships – Overall Winner 1981 AAU Teenage Midwest Open – Medium Class Winner Mr. Natural Olympia John Hansen first became interested in the sport of bodybuilding as a very young man. An avid comic book reader, John was fascinated with the physiques of the colorful superheroes he read about in the comic books. They were so muscular and impressive that they captured his imagination and he couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to have a body like that. Several years later, John began to idolize the late martial arts superstar Bruce Lee. He was intrigued with Lee after seeing a picture of him with his shirt off from the movie “Enter the Dragon”. Bruce Lee was the only person he had ever seen who looked like the superheroes he had read about in the comic books. John soon adopted Bruce Lee’s training regimen so he could develop a body similar to the kung fu superstar. He started jogging, took karate classes at the local park district, did push-ups, sit-ups and chin-ups on a daily basis and eventually started lifting weights. When he began lifting weights, John had to buy some bodybuilding magazines to learn how to perform the various exercises needed to develop his body. When he saw the incredible physiques on the bodybuilders featured in the magazines such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno and Franco Columbu , John knew that this is what he wanted to do with his life. He began training for bodybuilding at 14 years old, right before beginning his freshman year in high school. Although he only weighed a skinny 135 pounds, it didn’t take long for John to tell everyone what he wanted to accomplish. “I’m going to be Mr. Universe someday”, he would say. Of course, no one took him seriously. John began competing in bodybuilding contests two years later at 16 years old. Over the next 3 years, he competed in 10 teenage bodybuilding competitions, eventually winning the Teenage Midwest Open at 18 years old and taking 5th place at the Teenage Mr. America contest when he was 19. After his teenage years were over, John realized he would have to get much bigger before competing with the big boys. He used the next 2 years to “bulk up”, going from 180 pounds at 19 years old to 205 pounds at 20 years old and 230 pounds by the time he was 21 years old. John competed in the Illinois State Bodybuilding Championships at 22 years old, taking third place in the heavyweight class. His goal was to win state and regional level competitions before going on to the national level and eventually to the Mr. Universe contest. The following year, John won the heavyweight and overall title of the 1986 Illinois State Bodybuilding Championships. Two weeks later, he also won the Mid-America Championships in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Now he had accomplished his goal of winning bodybuilding championships at the state and regional level. Over the next few years, John continued to place high at the regional level but failed to win at the national level. It was during this time that John learned about the extent of steroid use in bodybuilding. Most of the competitors at the national level were using high amounts of steroids, cycling them year round. Even the female athletes were using steroids and other drugs to get an edge on the competition. It was at this point that John had to make a decision about his future in the sport. If he wanted to win at the national level and beyond, it was inevitable that he would also have to resort to using steroids in the same manner his competitors were. Fortunately, John made the wise decision to turn away from competition at that level and compete only in natural or drug-tested bodybuilding contests. Competing in these contests would insure that the winner would rely only on training, nutrition and supplementation to win and would not be allowed to use steroids, growth hormone, diuretics or any of the other drugs that were being used in competition. In 1991, John took second place at the Natural Illinois Bodybuilding Championships. The following year, John was victorious at the 1992 Natural Illinois and then went to San Francisco to win the overall at the Natural Mr. North America. The North America was a qualifier for the Natural Mr. Universe to be held 2 weeks later in Venice, California. On December 12, 1992, John had his dream come true as he finally won the coveted Mr. Universe title he had set his sights on when he was only 14 years old. He was the winner of the Natural Mr. Universe contest. Over the next several years, John continued to compete to see how far he could advance his physique. He eventually won the Professional Natural Mr. Universe in 1996 weighing 10 pounds heavier than when he first won the title in 1992. Now he was a 2 time Mr. Universe winner. In 1998, John
Martial Artist/Action Film Star Stephanie Cheeva
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have martial artist and action film star Stephanie Cheeva-McNeal on the show. Stephanie Cheeva was born in Sofia-Bulgaria. Her mother is a Bulgarian Figure-skating Champion Maria Vulkova. Father is a Mathematics Professor Veselin Georchev. Stephanie became a part of the Bulgarian national Team of TKD at the age of 13 and has won 21 gold medals in eight years as a professional competitor in Martial Arts. She came to LA in 1996. Two years later she graduated the “Joanne Baron & D.W. Brown” school of acting. Since then we’ve seen her in “The Ultimate Game”, “Martial Law”, “Nash Bridges”, “VIP”, “Good Versus Evil”, “Longshot”, “Last Call”, “The Fine Art Of Persuasion”, “Tequila Express”, “Exorcism”, “Last Call”, Miss congeniality 2″, etc. She’s been in national adds for Tylanol and Pontiac. Stephanie is happily married to photographer Kelsey McNeal and is a proud mom of son- Zion, born 2005 and daughter -Theona, born 2008. What’s the appeal? The catlike eyes, pouting lips, high cheek bones mixed with a beautiful physique and jumping kicks that will knock most people’s heads off? Or is it something else? Strong faith, unbreakable spirit, gentle heart, a true warrior passionately fighting her battle towards excellence with joy and perseverance, that inspires all who know her. Personal Quotes “Victory comes with the choice to stay in the battle, commited to bring every effort to a successful completion. Each victory is granted by the grace of God.” “I’d rather tell people: Look at what I’m doing, instead of, look at what I’ve done.” “Stephanie Cheeva-McNeal is one of the most inspirational people that I’ve come across, although she is too humble to admit it, she has accomplished some great things in her life and will continue to do so, I am fortunate to know her, and hope that her story will continue to inspire people worldwide,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show.
Actress and Cover Model Lana Tailor
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Playboy Cover Model Lana Tailor on the Show. Lana Tailor is not only one of the most sought after cover models around today, being featured on the cover of such publications as Inside Fitness Magazine, Masquerade by Coquette Magazine and Lingerie –American Curves Presentation , she is also an actress with such credits as being the host of Toro Magazine Weekly , Principle of Lingerie Series-HBO/Cinemax , and the lead in the music video Khoren. Lana has also been featured in many publications globally, they include the following: Playboy’s Natural Beauties – COVER Playboy’s Big Boobs and Hot Buns – COVER American Curves Magazine Lingerie Edition – COVER Playboy’s NUDES – Feature Playboy’s Hottest Nudes – Feature Playboy’s College Girls – Feature Maximum Fitness – Max Fit Girl This ambitious cover model and actress is as professional as they come, she has the ability to make a good photo shoot for a photographer into a great one. Her goals in her career are to flourish as a cover model but also to grow as an actress. Lana Tailor has several other magazine features that are forthcoming and keeps the doors open for those unique opportunities that will further her career as both a model and an actor. Some radio shows that she was a part of at some level include: Tailor & Taylor Tour, Playboy Radio Show, Winter Bash @ Lee’s Palace, Local, Lobby, Miss Bikini Canada, Century Room, Club Krush and Sudbury Morning Host. Tailor trained at Scene Study – Levels 1, 2 & 3 , Universal Academy and Improvisation – Championship. Now on top of all of that she also throws in a little versatility by having in her arsenal a few accent mimics such as Australian, British, and French accents. Now for the guys that are reading this and that will be listening to this fantastic cover model’s interview, she’s got skills that stem from Boxing, Karate, Gymnastics to Ice Hockey, Baseball and Soccer. To find out more about Lana Tailor listen to the interview and you are sure to be taken back as you find out more about this great cover model and up and coming actress. Websites: www.lanatailor.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3511241/
Last Chance for Animals Founder Chris DeRose
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the founder of Last Chance For Animals, one of the nations foremost animal activists groups, Chris DeRose, on the show. Chris DeRose is an animal rights activist recipient of the 1977 ‘Courage of Conscience’ International Peace Award and a former actor. He appeared on General Hospital, Cagney and Lacey, CHiPs, The Rockford Files andBaretta. He was an on-camera reporter for the television shows Hard Copy and Inside Edition. DeRose was born in Brooklyn, New York. He is the founder and president of Last Chance for Animals and the author of the book In Your Face: From Actor to Animal Activist. DeRose has been arrested 11 times and jailed 4 times for opposing animal cruelty, including his participation in a break-in at the UCLA Brain Research Institute in 1988. DeRose was fired from General Hospital when he had to go to jail. DeRose appeared in the 2006 HBO Documentary “Dealing Dogs” along with an undercover animal rights activist known as “Pete” and other activists of Last Chance for Animals. Together, they uncovered mistreatment of animals on a large scale at the Martin Creek Kennel in Arkansas. They were successful in closing down the operation and subsequently found homes for the mistreated dogs that were being sold to labs for experimentation. “Dealing Dogs” documents the project that was designed to expose Martin Creek Kennel’s inhumane treatment of dogs and violations of the law. The investigation was initiated by Last Chance for Animals, a Los Angeles-based animal-rights group. Chris DeRose, the founder and president of Last Chance for Animals, said he hoped “Dealing Dogs” would speed the passage of the Pet Safety and Protection Act, which amends the Animal Welfare Act to ensure that dogs and cats used by research facilities are obtained legally. “We want to put them out of business,” Mr. DeRose said of the crooked Class B dealers. One of DeRose’s most controversial actions was arranging for two undercover operatives to pay Wisconsin animal dealer Erving Stebane $50 to kill and butcher a dog while DeRose secretly videotaped the action. Felony charges were filed against the dealer, but in June 1993 Calumet County circuit judge Donald Poppy ruled that the case constituted illegal entrapment and ordered the return of 143 dogs which had been seized. In an interview with Kit Pavarenti,DeRose grimaces at the words. “I made a painful decision,” he admits, “and a dog died.” The memory of that night still carries more than its share of remorse. To fend it off, he reminds us and himself that the dog’s death was imminent, with or without the presence of a camera, and that the camera brought at least some degree of meaning to its sacrifice. Indeed, the public outrage precipitated by the case galvanized not only the community, but drew the attention of U.S. Representative Toy Roth (D-WI), who introduced the Stebane Bill,” legislation designed to strengthen penalties for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Roth also wrote a letter to Mike Espy, Secretary of Agriculture, voicing his deep concerns with unlawful Class B vendor activities. His sentiments are echoed by U.S. Senator Fiengold (R-WI). DeRose received the 1997 Courage of Conscience International Peace Award and once worked as a police officer and an investigator. In 2006, he became the Director of Animal Welfare (DAW) for West Hollywood, California. “Chris is one of the most passionate people that I have come across on the UCW Radio Show, his commitment to the organization that he founded, Last Chance For Animals, as well as his commitment to kids in need, being an undocumented Big Brother to dozens, is astounding, it was an honor and pleasure to have him on the show and look forward to following up with him in the near future,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. About Last Chance For Animals Founded in 1984 by Hollywood actor Chris DeRose, Last Chance For Animals has its roots in fighting and exposing the inherent cruelty of vivisection. In the organization’s early years, DeRose led teams of dedicated activists employing non-violent strategies modeled after social movements led by such leaders as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. Using “Direct Action,” LCA activists engaged in peaceful protest with determined resolve… to make sure their voices would be heard. When direct action was still a new concept in the American animal rights movement, every well-planned demonstration achieved tremendous media coverage. By the late 1980s, LCA was earning a national reputation for its no-nonsense approach to exposing animal cruelty. Though dozens of activists faced arrest and some even faced extended jail time for charges such as trespassing, LCA is proud that its direct action protests have never caused injury to a person who was not voluntarily involved (i.e., some activists themselves were injured due to being forcefully ejected from the protest). With its national reputation growing, LCA received support from around the country, and around the world — from caring people who decided that it was time to fight peacefully yet fight hard… staging direct action, and gathering evidence to send animal abusers to jail. With an increased budget and staff, LCA expanded its focus beyond vivisection. In the 1980s and 1990s, LCA has worked on virtually every animal rights issue, including farming, fur and animals in entertainment. LCA’s primary focuses are vivisection, pet theft, fur, and circuses. Websites: www.lcanimal.org
Martial Arts Veteran/ MMA Fighter Mike “Loco Lobo” Gresh
Mike “Loco Lobo” Gresh Began in the world of Martial Arts training back in 1973 He jumped into the Professional MMA fight scene in 2005 at the age of 43 and currently has a record of 4-2-0 He has been a Private student since 2004 & Certified Muay Thai Instructor under Kru Mark Dellagrotte, SitYodTong, Boston, MA. Gresh is a Former New England Featherweight Champion under the banner Reality Fighting. some of his accomplishments included a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Daniel Gracie. 2003/2004 NAGA Division Champion. Black Belt in Uechi Ryu Karate. Black Belt in Hawaiin Kenpo. Mike Gresh has also trained in Jeet Kune Do “JKD” Websites: www.capecodfighting.com
Engageia CEO and Seemail Co-Founder Kent Speakman
Kent Speakman is the President & Managing Partner of Engageia and Speakman Entertainment.Engageia is an interactive, incubation and intelligence group that works with startups and established brands; Speakman Entertainment produces TV & film properties, securing creative, funding and distribution channels globally. Kent has a wide network of influential contacts, and has orchestrated a variety of film and technology deals spanning Canada, USA, UK, China and India. He leverages the connections in place to unite any size business with the right partners, connecting the dots to take projects from concept to completion. He is an award-winning digital marketing strategist, social media authority, blogger, and speaker. Kent co-spears partnership development, and owns P&L for the mobile, digital and social media teams at Engageia. He has a track record of helping start ups, big brands and fast-growing companies effectively navigate the world of online media, websites, blogs, communities, social networks, and developing branded entertainment, virtual worlds and video games. Engageia is also involved in the M&A arena, working closely with successful client partners that have proven disruptive technologies that are ready for an exit strategy.Kent also sits as an Advisory Board Director for iKaptial, a leading technology, film distribution and media micro-venture capital corporation. It is part of the Aker Group of companies with head offices in London England, Princeton New Jersey and Chennai India. The company was founded in 2001 as a micro-venture funding company and later fine-tuned its business model to become a Media-vertical focused business.Speakman has won-over studios and networks in LA, such as Disney and Hallmark, for innovative entertainment marketing strategy. He has been acknowledged and quoted in best selling books on management, sales and business relationships. You can follow him on his blog at www.kentspeakman.com Websites: www.engageia.com www.seemail.com www.twitter.com/KentSpeakman
Award Winning Record Producer/TV Host Dino Maddalone
On Air Host of “ASK DINO SHOW” Time Warner/Net Television show. RECORD PRODUCER/MIXER “Record Producer Of The Year” 2008-9 Los Angeles FILM TV COMPOSER POST PRODUCTION-SOUND DESIGN SOURCE SONGS MUSIC Endorsements:. From Greg Sitler.. “I was working on a Television pilot for NBC and the show really need high quality creative music and a lot of audio sweetening. Dino came through and saved the show. I hope for the chance to work with him again.” Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, Creative From C.Von (Record A&R) After years of reading about the man, the myth, the legend “Dino” I finally had the pleasure of meeting and working with him. He’s probably one of the most knowledgeable guys in the business and as such I was able to learn so much. He’s a true Renaissance man; If you’re looking for a recording studio that’s warm, friendly. I highly recommend you contact Dino Maddalone. If you’re looking for a Producer/Mixer, I recommend you contact Dino. From Executive Producer Robin Winslett GJR PRODUCTIONS. “Dino is highly creative and the consummate professional. He does what is needed to make a project a success and is a true expert in the music business. I strongly recommend Dino” Great Results, Expert, Creative. From Director Ryan Kohler “THE GUY CHRONICLES” ..”Dear Dino, I just wanted to say thank you for creating such great music and your sound design for our film.. You really saved us in the end. .Ryan Kohler Director “The Guy Chronicles” 2008 Expert in Composing many styles and work very well with Directors and Producers. I bring it in on time and done right. I am totally self contained with my own State Of The Art Facility… I have Composed for feature films, Network and Cable TV/Video Games. I am “RECORD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR” 2008-9 “Los Angeles Music Awards”. Specialties: Music for Film, Television, Video Games, Advertisements, Commercials. I am also am Award winning Record Producer.“RECORD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR” 2008-9 TV TALK SHOW HOST Websites: http://www.askdinoshow.com http://www.facebook.com/pages/ASK-DINO-SHOW-Dino-Maddalone-Host/329649629518?ref=ts
Former WWE/WCW Pro Wrestler Erik Watts
Watts attended the University of Louisville, where he was a quarterback for the Louisville Cardinals. Watts later trained as a wrestler under his father, Bill Watts, and debuted in 1992. After wrestling for three months, he was hired by World Championship Wrestling. While in WCW, Watts feuded with Arn Anderson. In 1995, Watts followed his father to the World Wrestling Federation. In the WWF, Watts was renamed “Troy” while Chad Fortune was renamed “Travis” and put in a tag team known as Tekno Team 2000. Wearing silver smocks and tight zubaz, their gimmick was that they represented the cutting edge of cyberculture. Watts joined the Philadelphia-based Extreme Championship Wrestling promotion in 2000, losing to Spike Dudley in his ECW Arena debut. He remained with the promotion for several months before departing. In 2002, Watts joined Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. He eventually formed a heel stable with David Flair and Brian Lawler (two other second generation wrestlers whose careers were overshadowed by those of their famous fathers, Ric and Jerry) known as “The Next Generation”. After the faction disbanded, Watts turned face. He acted as the TNA Director of Authority from July 23, 2003 to January 28, 2004, before being ousted from his position by Don Callis. Watts then feuded with his on-screen girlfriend, Goldy Locks, throughout 2004. In late 2004, he feuded with Raven, defeating him at Final Resolution on January 16, 2005 before leaving the promotion in February. Erik Watts is in mode to reenter the world of professional wrestling in the near future, whether it be color commentating or stepping back into the ring. Pro wrestling is in his blood and Watts is looking forward to adding value to the next major promotion he ties in with. Websites: www.universalwrestling.com
Music Recording Artist Tina Sugandh
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Tina Sugandh, the first “Bollywood” pop artist to hit the music scene, on the show. Tina Sugandh is becoming known as “The World’s First Bollywood Pop Star”. (Glam.com). One listen to the songs on Sugandh’s debut album and you’ll know you have discovered an artist worthy of such a title. This singer, songwriter, dancer, guitarist, tabla player, and actress has been performing since the age of five with her musical family, The Sugandh Family. She recently had two Billboard Charting Singles, has been on several Hollywood blockbuster soundtracks such as “Around the World in 80 Days, Christmas With the Kranks, Ice Princess, Raise Your Voice, The Clique” and more, was the voice of the theme song “Sisters” for Kelly Ripa’s ABC sitcom ‘Hope and Faith’, had a New York Post feature story about her, and recently sang and played tabla for Ringo Starr’s latest album and gave the Beatles percussionist a tabla tutorial which she shares with us on her YouTube site. With recent performances on the CW-11 and at the Astaire Awards with Liza Minnelli and Alan Cumming, and with features in media outlets such as The New York Post, Reuters international and more, this New Jersey native claims “now that my debut album TablaGirl has just been released, I’m really just getting started!” The songs on TablaGirl are musical tapestries that bring together the influences of Sugandh’s native India: the peaceful ghazals, the hardcore beat-driven sound of bhangra, and the phenomenally popular Bollywood soundtracks. Yet, by applying a contemporary sensibility to these styles, the singer has created a sound that will undoubtedly speak to pop music lovers everywhere, regardless of their cultural origins. Born in Bombay but raised in New Jersey, Sugandh grew up in a musical family. Her mother Geeta, father Kanaiya, and sister Seema all sang and played instruments, and Kanaiya enchanted audiences with his comedy and mimicry as well. Naturally the family loved to perform together, and shows for friends and family eventually led to the family performing professionally. It was at their very first professional “Sugandh Family” concert that the 5-year old sang her first song, a highly emotional and intricate ghazal. “I grew up singing in 7 different South Asian languages,” says Sugandh. It’s amazing to now have the freedom to express all the different musical styles I absorbed while growing up.” The family performed from Tina’s childhood through her college years, with one catch. While the weekend was for music, the week was dedicated to work. For Tina’s parents that meant their jobs as a professor and marketing executive. For Tina and Seema it was their schoolwork. Sugandh’s parents always made sure that the girls knew that the family’s passion for music and performance should never overshadow their academics. Eager to succeed at both, Tina balanced a career in music while graduating from Rutgers University, on the Dean’s List, with a degree in Biology. Instrumental in Sugandh’s musical education were the magnificent Bollywood soundtracks that are such a significant part of cultural life in India. “People in India get almost all of their music from soundtracks,” Sugandh explains. “They don’t usually know who the artists are. The films use playback singers, and then the actors lip synch to the music.” The singers may have been anonymous but the rhythm of the music made a very distinct impression on Sugandh, who took to playing percussion as eagerly as she had embraced singing. “I surprised my dad by asking him to let me play his dholak onstage when I was about 7 or 8,” she says, referring to the popular hand drum used in Indian music. ”I had never touched the dholak before that performance, but I somehow played well, and I remember there was thunderous applause! My parents said, ‘If you have that kind of natural rhythm, we’re going to start you on tabla lessons right away.” So began Sugandh’s love affair with the instrument that would come to define her dynamic sound. “Right after I took a few lessons, we incorporated the tabla into our performances,” she says. “When mom would sing and I would play, she would get such a sparkle in her eyes onstage. Performing as a family was the most amazing feeling.” Having achieved nothing less than rhythmic virtuosity over the years, Sugandh showcases her tabla skills on every track on the album (she is also an accomplished guitarist in her own right). The first single “Break Me” turns the sound of the tabla into a pulsating beat, creating an irresistible call to the dance floor. “Hey you, spicy thing, your masala makes me scream,” Sugandh sings playfully. The songs on TablaGirl, all written or co-written by Sugandh, almost uniformly convey the singer’s positive outlook. In the defiant “Jao,” the singer admonishes the “girls who spit dirty talk” and the “boys who act so tough.” In the slyly insinuating “Bollywood Girl,” Sugandh vows to not “act like those girls on those shows” and to not “abandon my morals.” “People sometimes think I’m a goody two-shoes,” says the singer. “But I’m not in this for the shock value. ‘Bollywood Girl’ is like an anthem to me; I’m saying that success is not so important to me that I would abandon my morals.” “Once you figure out who you are,” she says, “no one can hurt you,” – a lesson she hopes to impart to others through her music. “I hope I can help people like themselves. Nobody has all the answers; all we have is the power to do the best we can.” On the song “T.here I.s N.o A.lternative” (the title contains an acronym of her name), Sugandh sings metaphorically about shedding her cocoon and learning to fly. The song’s Western-style production, spiced up with a hint of Indian flavor, provides the perfect pop accompaniment for Sugandh’s exhilarating message. Immersed in a loving family, it’s no surprise that Sugandh also knows her way around a heartfelt love
Bodybuilding Legend and IFBB Hall of Famer Rich Gaspari
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have IFBB Hall of Famer and Bodybuilding legend Rich Gaspari on the show. Rich Gaspari has been involved in bodybuilding and the fitness field for the past 20 years. Throughout these years Rich has accomplished many things. He started dabbling in weight lifting at the age of 14 and excelled as a top professional bodybuilder from the mid 80’s through the 90’s. Nicknamed the “Dragon Slayer”, Rich was both feared and admired by his peers for his groundbreaking conditioning and freakish muscularity. His success as a competitor, attributed to his scientific approach to diet and training and notoriously brutal work ethic, is a testament to a man who, though not as genetically gifted as many of his competitors, toppled nearly every giant of his day. Some of Rich’s past titles include the Mr. America – known now as the NPC Nationals, Mr. Universe, Professional Mr. World, 1st Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Champion, Three Time runner up for the biggest and most coveted title in professional bodybuilding, the “Mr. Olympia”, and many other professional bodybuilding competitions. These titles brought him popularity and notoriety worldwide. He has appeared countless times in and on the covers of various publications such as Muscle and Fitness, Flex, Iron Man, Muscular Development, Muscle Media 2000, Muscle Mag International and many others throughout the world. Rich has also appeared in television commercials and on various TV shows such as the Tonight Show, Geraldo Rivera, and Regis and Kathy Lee. Rich also holds a certification with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This has allowed him to help hundreds of people to achieve healthier lives by altering body composition and improving overall health and athletic performance through personal training and nutrition. Over the past 10 years, Rich has developed his own line of supplements under his name Gaspari Nutrition into one of the most formidable and best loved in the world. His determination and love of the sport of bodybuilding has seen its’ successful transition evident in his unyielding passion for developing the most effective sports nutrition and diet products of our day. “Rich Gaspari is a true example of the American Dream, hard work and determination mixed in with a vision has made both Rich a legend in bodybuilding and his nutrition brand one of most sought after in the world, when looking for an example of fighting for success you need not look any further than Rich Gaspari,” said Louis Velazquez, host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.gasparinutrition.com www.twitter.com/richgaspari
UK Singer/Songwriter Tara London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have recording artist Tara London on the Show. With a training in acting, musical and technical theatre, Tara London’s involvement in performance and composition dates back to the early days of her youth. Strong influences including Billie Holiday, Elvis Presleyand Janis Joplin explain her passion for individuality and flair, especially in the adverse face of existing trends. Always projecting a sound that inspires an emotive response within her, the desire to spread this feeling to those around her is the main drive behind this hugely talented musician, caring little for the conventional trappings of fame and fortune. Presently working as a solo artist, Tara is often accompanied by her guitarist and backing vocalists but has also spent time working with two bands in recent years, travelling far and wide across London and the South East including venues such as The Blag Club, The Cobden Club, Spice of Life Soho, The Sidcup/Bexley Guitar Society, ‘ The Original Songwriters’@ The Backyard,Broadway Theatre, The Bedford, The Cedar room, The Gate and many more. With her work earning airplay on independent and national radio stations in and outside the UK, Tara’s endeavors have recently been reflected with a nomination at the 2008 Indy Music Awards; meanwhile, work continues on a first album ‘The Whispering Years’ signaling no pause in momentum for this bright star of the future. Websites: www.myspace.com/taralondon http://www.taralondonmusic.co.uk/
International Model/Actress Phoebe Price
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have International Model, Actress and also Fashion Designer Phoebe Price on the Show, this is where you will find out more about the real Phoebe Price and not just what you see in the tabloids. Phoebe Price got her start as an international actress and model (in such cities as Capetown. S.A. Athens,Greece and Milan, Italy) Phoebe moved on to hosting a television show and has recently finished several films, “Survival of the Fittest” the Alex Melli Helmed “Horse Trader”, “Eye of Truth and “Lost in Transit’, “Shoot Me”. Not one to sit back on her laurels, Phoebe perfects her acting craft by studying with some of Hollywood’s top coaches including Howard Fine/Ted Brunetti, Robert Easton, Marge Haber, Michelle Danner/Larry Moss. A favorite of the photographers the former model and actress has graced the pages of such leading magazines as LA Confidential, Star Magazine, OK Magazine, Glamour, Vogue, In Touch Weekly, French Metro, Femina and others. Phoebe is an attendee of many Film Festival, Sundance, Cannes Film Festival, Cinevegas Film Festival, AFI Film Festival and will be the Ambassadrice and Speaker for the Monaco International Film Festival (2005). Phoebe generously lends her support to various altruistic causes, Cinema Fighting Cancer, Lili Claire Foundation, National Spokes Woman for “Women In Distress which helps battered women and children and many other charities. She is the spokeswoman for Fenix Cosmetics. She was the speaker for the opening of the Monaco Film Festival in Monaco. Websites: www.phoebeprice.com
Kickboxing Boxing Legend Olando “The Warrior” Rivera
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Kick boxing Legend Olando “The Warrior” Rivera on the Show. Every so often an athlete comes along who redefines the sport – taking it to an entirely new level. In basketball it’s Michael Jordan, in Baseball it’s Sammy Sosa, and in Kickboxing it’s Olando Rivera. Nicknamed “The Warrior”, Rivera has dominated the world super-light heavyweight class. Today Olando “Warrior” Rivera is the five-time world champion super light heavyweight kickboxer holding titles in the ISKA (International Sports Karate Association), KICK (Karate International Council of Kickboxing), WWKA (Worldwide Karate Association), P.F.K. and WMMA. Rivera unified the division for the first time in kickboxing history. His extensive professional kickboxing career hosts an impressive record of 32 wins, 3 losses and 1 draw. This record is even more impressive in the fact that two of the only three losses were his first two professional bouts – where, like a true champion, he fought back to maintain a virtually flawless record, winning 29 out of his 30 next fights, with 20 of these victories by knockout. Olando Rivera began his kickboxing career at the tender age of 9 in Brooklyn, New York where he began training in Tae Kwon Do. However his early career was temporarily derailed when his family could no longer financially support his training. Undaunted, Rivera earned the money himself and at the age of 13 was training once again. Since then, “The Warrior” has never looked back on his way to the top of the kickboxing circuit – and now the boxing – world. By the age of 35, he was the youngest person ever inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame. Now with 30 years of martial arts training and 15 years of fitness instruction, Rivera has become a force to be reckoned with all over the world. Recently, he defeated the light heavyweight champions from both China and Brazil. Rivera recently expanded his kickboxing success into the professional boxing ring and now holds an equally astounding boxing record of 15-3-2 (8 by KO) He currently holds the Latin American WBC Championship Boxing title, and the IBC America’s Title. Olando intends on being the first Latino to dominate the two sports holding world light heavyweight titles in both kickboxing and boxing. In addition to fighting, Rivera has been motivating people outside the ring for years as a celebrity personal fitness trainer – training stars of the big screen, music and television. In New York, where the one-on-one Warrior Training concept originated, Rivera trained Another World’s Tom Eplin and Sandra Ferguson. In addition, he’s trained Silver Screen Star Wesley Snipes, R&B sensation Calvin Richardson, and World Champion WCW’s Evan Karagias, Former Buccaneer Player Brad Culpepper and several other Athletes as well He is also a seasoned Kickboxing trainer having instructed over 5000 clients worldwide, kids and adults alike, from as far away as China, Canada and the United States. Rivera’s unique training style and intense sport-training and agility techniques have been featured on ESPN, ABC’s Good Day New York, on CNN with Another World’s Tom Eplin, Madison Square Garden Network’s Martial Arts World, Soap Opera Digest and Soap Opera Weekly, NY Daily News, pay-per view channels, ABC and NBC news and countless others. Rivera’s charismas on and off-screen have also been captured in the Latino market via Telemundo Network’s Occurio Asi. Olando Rivera is happily married to Deena Rivera and they reside in Tampa, Florida. Olando Rivera has four children: Victoria, Olando Jr, Anthony and Anjelina. The older kids are both skilled in martial arts and the sport of kickboxing. When he’s not inside the ring, training clients or playing with his children, you can usually find Olando racing motorcycles and cars in what little “spare” time he can garnish. Another passion of Rivera’s is his childhood love of gymnastics. Olando and Deena are both advocates for Autism and promoting Autism Awareness since their son Anthony was diagnosed back in 2001. Rivera is not only the greatest kickboxer in the world, but also one of the most sought after instructors and motivators. He is truly the definition of superstar – in the ring and out. We hope you will show your continued support as Olando prepares to embark upon a completely new venture with Warrior Classic Kickboxing. Amateur Kickboxing Events Presently Being Held In The Tampa Bay Area. Websites: www.olandorivera.com www.warriorclassic.com Donate to Autism Speaks in the name of Anthony Rivera at www.autismspeaks.org www.twitter.com/olandorivera
Actress/Comedian Ursula Taherian
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the ultra talented Actress/Comedian Ursula Taherian on the Show. Ursula Taherian was born and raised a Halfghani in Crofton, Maryland. She attended Arundel High School where she graduated in the top 3% of her class in addition to serving as class president, captain of the soccer and softball teams, acting with the Arundel Players, and serving as a member of the Spanish Honor Society. She moved to Baltimore to attend Loyola College in Maryland where she graduated Summa cum laude with a major in Finance and a minor in Spanish. At Loyola, Ursula stayed involved in both theatre and student government and enjoyed membership in Beta Gamma Sigma (International Honor Society in Business & Management), Sigma Delta Pi (National Collegiate Spanish Language Honor Society), and the Financial Management Association Honor Society. After graduation, Ursula worked as an internal consultant for a well-known international financial institution. Feeling creatively stifled, she eventually broke up with Corporate America and headed west, where she has since been working steadily in both film and television. Currently, she can be seen on the new hit television show, “Reality Hell”, on E! She was also just nominated for Best Actress and Breakout Action Star for her leading role in the film “Layla” that is presently making the festival rounds. Other credits include the pilots, “Think Twice”, written and directed by Jordana Arkin and Wayne Brady’s “Joke’s On You”, as well as a series regular role on the HBO political satire, “The Message”. You can catch her on stage at the First-Ever Middle Eastern Comedy Festival (LA Weekly’s Choice in “Go LA”, Jewish Journal’s “Pick of the Week”) on Wednesday and Thursday, September 23 and 24, at the Acme Comedy Theatre. Please visit www.mideastcomedyfest.com for details. Ursuala starred in such films as “Carver:”, “Pizza Palace” , “Helmet” , “When Cobra Strikes” in addition to the ones already mentioned. She has received lots of praise for her films roles but her resume is broad as she also has vast television experience. She has starred in such shows as “Raising The Roofs” on Spike TV, “North Mission Road” on Court TV, “The Mesage” on HBO, and her latest project “Reality Hell” which can be seen on E! . She has done pilots with the likes of Wayne Brady and is one of Hollywood’s Shining Stars. Her versatility has led her to take the lead in some theatre projects including “Publicityville” , “The Role Model” , “8 Shades of Layon Gray” , “Diary of a Catholic School Dropout” and “Wedding of Doom.” “I have to say that Ursula is one of the most enjoyable guests that we have had on the UCW Radio Show, her journey is one of sacrifice and success. She is without a doubt someone that deserves the accolades that she receives, giving up a promising career, leaving her family and making a success at what she set out to do, oh yeah she is just beginning, and will achieve great things not only in Hollywood but globally.” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. See Ursula during the Middle Eastern Comedy Festival Tuesday September 22, 2009 and closes out on Friday September 25, 2009. Ursula will be in the sketch portion on Wednesday September 23, 2009 and on Thursday September 24, 2009, both nights at 7:30pm and 9:15pm PST. Here is some information on The Middle Eastern Comedy Festival that runs this coming Tuesday, 9/22, through Friday, 9/25. I’m in the sketch portion on Wednesday (yes tomorrow…I know, I’m on the ball) and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. both nights. Current sponsors include KPCC (NPR), ABC/Disney, FOX, CNBC, and most recently Larry King is sending a reporter! CNBC did an article on us and the LA Times is doing one as well. We were LA Weekly’s Choice in “Go LA” and Jewish Journal’s “Pick of the Week”. We also got support from the social action network, Take Part. CNBC article: http://www.cnbc.com/id/32842844 Jewish Journal article: Take Part article: http://www.takepart.com/blog/2009/09/22/an-arab-and-an-israeli-walk-into-a-bar/#like Websites: www.ursulataherian.com
Pro Wrestler/Entrepreneur Lanny Poffo aka “The Genius”
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have WWE Pro Wrestling Star Lanny “The Genius” Poffo on the Show. Lanny Poffo began wrestling in the NWA territories in the 1970s before becoming a star and champion in International Championship Wrestling. Over the course of his regional career, Poffo both tag teamed and feuded with older brother Randy. Upon the ICW’s folding in 1984, he joined Randy in the CWA before traveling with him again to the World Wrestling Federation in June 1985. The brother angle was never worked in the WWF and the relationship was never mentioned on-air. While Lanny never reached the heights as it relates to popularity as his brother Randy “Macho Man” Savage did in the WWF, he still managed to find a niche for himself as a minor fan favorite. As Leaping Lanny Poffo, the Wrestling Poet, he would bring Frisbees to the ring, read a short ode written on one of them that he himself had penned, and throw the Frisbees into the crowd. Each poem typically ridiculed his opponent and created an opening or basis for a continued feud. Poffo wrestled a high-flyer style at a time when big, heavy wrestlers still dominated the promotion. He was one of the first wrestlers in North America to utilize the moonsault in their arsenal, though the announcers referred to it at the time as a “leaping backflip”. He made some publicity in late 1986 and early 1987 by competing in a series of Bunkhouse Battle Royals in full knight’s armor. In April 1989, Poffo was re-introduced as a heel wrestler and became The Genius, adopting a highly intelligent, sniffy persona and wearing an academic cap and gown to the ring. He officially turned heel at the Boston Garden on March 18, 1989 still known as Leaping Lanny, he berated Hulk Hogan and stuck up for his brother Randy Savage in his poem. This was a mere two weeks before Wrestlemania V. His poems now ridiculed the face wrestlers, and he now behaved in an even more effeminate manner to infuriate the crowd. During the match, the Genius would construct a mathematical equation that would tilt the balance of the match in his favor. In addition, the Genius also served as a manager (and occasional tag team partner) for Mr. Perfect. On the November 25, 1989 edition of WWF Saturday Night’s Main Event, The Genius beat WWF Champion Hulk Hogan by count out due to Mr. Perfect hitting Hogan with the championship belt. Later in the show, Mr. Perfect and Poffo took a hammer to the belt, shattering it to pieces. Later, The Genius was the manager of the Beverly Brothers . It was in this capacity that Poffo last appeared in the WWF, at Survivor Series 1992. Outside of wrestling, Poffo has released a collection of poems and limericks, most of which were related to drug and alcohol awareness, directed toward young children. Poffo is a staunch anti-smoker and has released a book of limericks entitled Limericks from the Heart and Lungs!. He is also a certified credit counselor. He was last seen on television in infomercials as an endorser of Tony Little’s Gazelle Freestyle exercise machine. Poffo is still on good terms with WWE, having written a poem for WWE.com in 2007 for the “Battle of the Billionaires” at WrestleMania 23 between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump. “Lanny Poffo is one of the most genuine people in the wrestling business, I consider him to be a great example of professionalism as well as being an inspiration to children through his poetry and books, he is just a great all around guy.” said Louis Velazquez, host of The UCW Radio Show. Poffo Family Picture Website: www.lannypoffo.com
Bodybuilding/Powerlifting Champion Kate Baird
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Bodybuilding and Powerlifting Champion Kate Baird on the show. Kate Baird was born on November 17 in Wilmington, Delaware. She grew up in typical “suburbia”, an ordinary girl. She was actually quite shy, even into her adult life, though most of those who know her, except for those who know her quite well, will refute that fact. Because of her shyness and timidness, She never put forth much effort when she was younger to explore and nurture any of the talents that she had, athletically, artistically or otherwise. She was always a bit offbeat, and because of her inability to accept conformity, she was seen as being quite outgoing and confident. Self esteem was something she didn’t have until I was in my 40’s. In her words, “I’ve grown a lot since I turned 40.” Kate’s fascination with strength and bodybuilding came one day when she was 10 or 11. Her father was watching the Wide World of Sports and the show was televising the Mr. Universe that Sunday afternoon. She admits that she watched with fascination, as Arnold, Franco, and Lou posed down. It was at that moment that she knew that someday she would be a bodybuilder, too. Of course, in the beginning of the 1970’s, girls just didn’t do that kind of thing. Kate watched in fascination as Lisa Lyon came to the forefront in the late 70’s, always hoping that she could find someone to show her how to lift weights and grow muscles. In the early 1980’s, Kate started dating someone who worked out, and it was then that she began her early training with a small set of plastic weights in the basement of his friends’ house in South Philadelphia. After a year or so, she joined the YMHA on Broad Street. Finally, a real gym! She worked out hard from the beginning, most of the time by herself, learning the ropes through reading the various publications, and trying things out in the gym. “I think people usually assumed that I knew exactly what I was doing,, basing that on the fact that I always went in and gave it my all each time I trained,” Kate explained. After she got married in 1990, she had a child, started a new career, life happened and the dreams got put on the back burner. Kate continued to work out in her backyard with her own dumbbells and bench, albeit these workouts were to stay in shape, nothing like the workouts she used to know. Kate tried joining a gym once or twice while her son was young, but her ex-husband was a chef and was never home, and her career in real estate was not exactly profitable in the beginning. She couldn’t afford a babysitter. so she kept to her backyard training. She slipped a disc in my back in 2001. That sure changed her life for a long time. One day in the fall of 2003 Kate just simply decided that her back was healed enough, and it was time to go back to the gym. It was automatic iron fever once again. It didn’t take very long for people to start asking her if she competed in bodybuilding. Kate said “I gather that was based upon the fact that I have been blessed with that right shape, and the fact that I still continued to train fervently and with purpose. That planted the seed to revive the dream I always had – to be a competitive bodybuilder. After only being back in the gym less than 10 months, I actually won the NPC 2004 DE State Overall title. During my diet preparation, I actually got very sick and decided to give this competition up. Luckily I had friends who talked me back into it (though that really didn’t take any arm twisting!). After three weeks off the diet, two weeks of no training, I went back on the diet with less than three weeks to go, and still won, much to my surprise. I had hundreds of dollars worth of blood tests taken during this time, and this is when they discovered that I have blood sugar issues – borderline diabetes. My problems were due to severe drops in blood sugar and a virus on top of that. I’ve since learned to keep the carbs up! (sorry all you low carb fanatics).” While she was training for that first contest, she met and became fast friends with a world-class powerlifter and former champion bodybuilder . It was through his encouragement and direction that Kate really began to see that she could take this sport to the levels that she desired. She was already stronger than the average girl. He spotted this right off the bat and nurtured her. He had Kate enter my first powerlifting meet as a way of keeping her size and strength as a prelude to a bodybuilding competition. “I know now that he was secretly prepping me for a future in a sport I have become quite passionate about. Before this, I didn’t know anything about powerlifting. I didn’t squat, I didn’t bench, and I didn’t even know how a deadlift was performed!,” she added. Kate entered her first powerlifting competition in May, 2005. Her lifts were actually very competitive in this meet, considering that she had only been “power” training for a few months. But she was hooked. She still continues to compete now and then in bodybuilding contests, however, in the words of Kate ” I don’t think anything matches the satisfaction of getting under that heavy bar loaded with iron – pushing or pulling and rising above the challenge. Currently, I choose to lift without the squat suit and the bench shirt. I have nothing against geared lifting, but personally I just find it cumbersome and annoying to wear it. I may change my mind in the future, but right now “raw” is where
Pro Wrestler Scotty Riggs
Scotty Riggs real name Scott Antol debuted in 1992 using the ring name “Scott Stud”. In the early 1990s, he worked for various independent promotions, including the North Georgia Wrestling Association (a World Championship Wrestling developmental territory), Smoky Mountain Wrestling, and the United States Wrestling Association.Scotty Riggs signed a contract with World Championship Wrestling “WCW” in 1995 and it was there that he was given the ringname “Scotty Riggs”, the name Riggs being taken from the main character of the movie “Lethal Weapon” starring Mel Gibson. He was immediately placed in to a tag team with Marcus Alexander Bagwell, better known as Buff Bagwell, the brother of baseball great Jeff Bagwell,and they became known as “The American Males”. Together, they captured the WCW World Tag Team Championship once, but only held it for eight days before losing it back to Harlem Heat, the team they won it from in the first place.The team broke up in November 1996 when Bagwell turned heel, attacking Riggs and joining the New World Order.After the breakup, the former partners feuded for a short while, with Bagwell usually coming out on top.After bouncing around the mid-card for most of 1997, Raven took an interest in him in his next storyline. During a “No DQ Match” on the October 27, 1997 edition of Nitro, Raven caught Riggs in a drop toe-hold, sending him face first into a steel chair and injuring his eye in the process.Riggs then began wearing an eye patch. For the rest of 1998, Riggs again lurked around the mid-card before starting a narcissistic gimmick, constantly admiring his own physique. The gimmick was not particularly successful, and he was eventually released. In 2000, Antol debuted in Extreme Championship Wrestling as Scotty Anton, aligning with his real-life friend Rob Van Dam. At Hardcore Heaven, Anton betrayed Van Dam, knocking him off the top rope to the floor, allowing Jerry Lynn to pin him and thus end Van Dam’s lengthy undefeated streak. From there, he joined The Network as a “hired gun”. Van Dam gained revenge at Heat Wave, defeating Anton by debuting his Van Terminator. After ECW declared bankruptcy in April 2001, Antol returned to the independent circuit, where he found the greatest success of his entire career in Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling as he became a three time TCW Heavyweight Champion as well as a one time TCW Tag Team Champion with Erik Watts. Upon getting his life together, Scotty Riggs resumed his wrestling career and returned to wrestling under his “Scotty Riggs” ring name for numerous independent promotions, Riggs has also joined Entertainers That Care, a group that works alongside celebrities to help in fundraising events for many causes, and theChildren’s Miracle Network. www.twitter.com/REALScottyRiggs
Competitive Fitness Model Champion Michelle Demaria
Michelle is one of those people that are more than what meets the eye. Its true that she is a Fitness Competitor and with only two years under her belt she has snagged an endorsement deal and a number of appearances representing bodybuilding.com. She is also an educator, teaching High School in Canada, Michelle definitely must have the highest attendance record in the district. She is getting herself set to compete in 2010 and looks to make 2010 a banner year. According to Michelle she has been teaching High School for about ten years, lucky kids, and she really has a passion to mold the minds of the youth, but her true claim to personal fame is being a mom. Her little one, all of 6 years old, is one of the most well mannered 6 year old girls that we had the pleasure to interact with, she is actually the one that pushes her mom to do better and compete, and she doesn’t just talk the talk, this little one walks the walk being a competitive dancer herself. And yes she is doing her very first solo shortly. So Michelle is not your typically fitness competitor, and her story is not just about pumping iron or dieting, there is a true story of a single mom guiding the way for her child, holding down a career and through fitness she is able to set an example to her students, and above all her daughter, that you can accomplish anything if you just put your mind to it and want it to happen badly enough. To find out more about Michelle DeMariawww.michelledemaria.com
Author/Leading Authority on Outlaw Biker Clubs Edward Winterhalder
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Author/Leading Authority on Outlaw Biker Clubs Edward Winterhalder on the Show. Edward Winterhalder is an American author, entrepreneur, and leading authority on motorcycle clubs and the biker lifestyle; his books are published in multiple languages and sold all over the world. Author of a historical look into the secret world of outlaw motorcycle clubs (also known as biker gangs), his autobiography about the time he spent with the Bandidos Motorcycle Club titled Out In Bad Standings: Inside The Bandidos Motorcycle Club – The Making Of A Worldwide Dynasty was published in November 2005, according to large bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Winterhalder is also the co-author, with Canadian motorcycle journalist Wil De Clercq, of The Assimilation: Rock Machine Become Bandidos – Bikers United Against The Hells Angels (published by Canada’s ECW Press in June 2008); the co-author, with James Richard Larson, of All Roads Lead To Sturgis: A Biker’s Story (published by Blockhead City Press in February 2009); the co-author, with Australian Arthur Veno and Canadian Wil De Clercq, of Biker Chicks: The Magnetic Attraction of Women to Bad Boys and Motorbikes (published by Australia’s Allen & Unwin in May 2009) and the co-author, with Canadian Wil De Clercq, of L’Assimilation: Rock Machine & Bandidos Contre Hells Angels (published by Canada’s Octave Editions in June 2009). An October 2006 issue of Rockstar Magazine described Winterhalder as being the high ranking member of the Bandidos responsible for the assimilation of a Canadian motorcycle gang known as the Rock Machine in 2001, which then became the Canadian chapters of the Bandidos. An executive producer of the Living on the Edge DVD/television reality series, Winterhalder was born in New England, grew up in Connecticut and moved to Oklahoma after serving in the US Army. In Oklahoma he joined the Rogues Motorcycle Club in the 1970s, and was a close associate and/or a member of the Bandidos for more than twenty years. He has been seen on Fox TV News, History Television, the History Channel, the CBC Canadian TV evening news, been a featured author on Bravo TV’s “The Word”, and has been quoted by hundreds of magazines and newspapers worldwide such as the Seattle Weekly, the Austin Chronicle, the Sunshine Coast Daily in Australia and The Guardian in England; the media recognizes him as one of the world’s leading authorities on the Bandidos, outlaw motorcycle clubs and bikers. A consultant to the entertainment industry for television shows and feature films that focus on the biker lifestyle, the main character Jax Teller in the new series Sons of Anarchy is partially based on specific aspects of Winterhalder’s life as portrayed in his first book Out In Bad Standings, according to the Laconia Citizen and Bombin’ Magazine Website: www.blockheadcity.com Edward Winterhalder Books and DVDs to date include (4 more books coming in the next 18 months): L’Assimilation: Rock Machine & Bandidos Contre Hells Angels (Co-Author Wil De Clercq – Octave Editions Canada June 2009) Biker Chicks: The Magnetic Attraction of Women to Bad Boys and Motorbikes (Co-Author Arthur Veno with Wil De Clercq – Allen & Unwin Australia May 2009); All Roads Lead To Sturgis: A Biker’s Story (Co-Author James Richard Larson – Blockhead City Press USA February 2009) The Assimilation: Rock Machine Become Bandidos – Bikers United Against The Hells Angels (Co-Author Wil De Clercq – ECW Press Canada June 2008) Living on the Edge: Riding with the Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club in Pennsylvania (Blockhead City Entertainment USA December 2007) Out In Bad Standings: Inside The Bandidos Motorcycle Club – The Making Of A Worldwide Dynasty (Blockhead City Press USA November 2005)
Entrepreneur and Humanitarian Julie Weintraub
Julie was born in England. Her mother is English and her father from India. Her family moved to the U.S when she was 6 years old. In 1990 at 19 years old Julie helped her ex-husband and partner found the Dogwater Café restaurant chain in the Tampa Bay area. The opened 4 locations in 3 years and eventually sold it in 1998. It is now a franchise and has been featured in numerous national magazines and media outlets due to its unique concept- great food in Dog Bowls! By the time Julie was 20 she had become a licensed Realtor and was dealing in million dollar properties for some of the area’s premier families. Along with her career Julie always made time to give back to the community. Julie spent countless hours volunteering for the Humane Society doing fundraisers with her restaurants and rehabilitating injured and sick animals in her home. Steve and Julie currently support numerous Charities through out the Tampa Bay area. During Julie’s travels at home and abroad she always took interest in the way homes and various types of buildings were furnished inspiring her to open Classic Elegance Interiors 9 years ago. Her work has been featured in St. Pete Times, Tampa Tribune, Tampa Bay Magazine, House Trends and on Channel 13’s Good Day Tampa Bay as Julie was the coordinator and decorator for the Designer Showcase for local Charities. In the last 5 years Julie and her dear friend of many years Steve Weintraub have married and joined forces. Julie is the Vice President of Gold & Diamond Source handling many aspects of the business, from day to day operations, sales training, and most importantly customer and community relations. Julie has helped introduced to the Tampa Bay Area who Steve and Julie Weintraub are through a series of commercials you may have seen on all the major networks and a strong commitment to supporting charities in their community. With the belief that people shop with people not Logo’s. Julie has also recently partnered with Mary Murphy form So You Think You Can Dance and Maria McGill to promote a gorgeous line of gowns inspired by Maria McGills dance line she created for Dancing With The Stars Season 1 in the US and in Europe. Steve and Julie have 5 children between them from 8-23 years old. They enjoy Sundays with a house full of kids and animals jet skiing and gardening. To learn more about Julie Weintraub go to www.goldanddiamondsource.com www.entradacouture.com www.handsacrossthebay.com
Mega Record Promoter Ron Herbet
Ron Herbert is a world class record promoter, he has worked with dozens and dozens of artist globally some of which include Cher, Janet Jackson, Rolling Stones, Meatloaf, Sting, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and the list goes on and on. In November 1996, Herbert, a native Atlantan, became vice president of southeastern operations for the powerful Jeff McClusky & Associates, a record promotions and marketing firm out of Chicago. At 6’2,” his powerful frame stands in stark symbolic contrast to his childlike passion for music and musicians in general. His reach in the business stretches far and wide and spans 25 years, a fact that is overwhelmingly evident upon entering his Buckhead high-rise office. Adorned with hordes of gold and platinum records representing millions of albums sold, the walls reflect a rich and eventful history in the shaping of rock ’n’ roll. Ron joined Jeff McClusky and Associates in 1984. The founder of the independent record promotion and marketing firm in Chicago happened to be looking for a key figure to help his company expand into the hot southeastern market. Ron soon began breaking records for all the majors—Columbia, Atlantic, Warner, Elektra, Mercury — Herbert’s aggressive style soon became the stalwart of the companies “Southern Wing”, and through Ron’s fiercely competitive dedication, Jeff McClusky and Associates became known as one of the largest, most successful companies of its kind in the U.S. Presently, Ron Herbert is working on numerous other entertainment ventures including a partnership with Ray Mariner (Atlanta, GA radio personality) to manage Country music new comers, Gary Ray & The Heartwells. Websites: www.moneymarketron.com www.bonusmusic.com
Natural Mr. Universe Doug Burns
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Mr. Universe Doug Burns on the Show. Doug Burns is a modern Sampson. The 2006 Natural Mr. Universe, he’s two hundred pounds of sheer muscle and the picture of good health. Of the skinny little boy with type 1 who used to work out in the woods alone, all that remains are a wry sense of humor and an attractively self-deprecating manner. They’re unexpected in a man who’s triumphed in the uber-masculine world of bodybuilding, but there’s a lot that’s unexpected about Doug Burns. At the age of twelve, in 1977, Doug came across a picture of the Biblical Sampson holding a lion in a headlock. He’d never seen anything like Sampson’s hugely muscular body, and for the skinny, lonely boy, the sight was a revelation. That night he prayed zealously for a half hour to be changed into a Sampson. When he woke the next morning as skinny as ever, he gave up on miraculous intervention and decided to take matters into his own hands. Doug’s physician tried to forbid him to lift weights, but he was so hell-bent on becoming Samsonesque that he ignored the doctor. Unfazed by the absence of gyms in backwoods Mississippi, he made late night forays to the junkyard and jerry-rigged his own gym with old pulleys and bags of concrete. Using an outdated issue of Ironman magazine as his guide, he trained in his makeshift gym in the woods come hell or high water, in the company of raccoons and bobcats, and once right through a tornado. About the same time that he started working out, Doug got hold of a home glucose meter. His control improved immediately, and once that happened, his world opened up. No longer a bag of bones, he joined the football team, became the most valuable running back, and found a group of buddies to work out with. He and his friends would go to Wolf River, dive from the trestle, and train out in the sun with weighted dumbbells. Where the river rapids flowed through a canyon, they swam upriver like salmon. At age fifteen, after only two years with the weights, Doug began power-lifting competitively. He placed dead last in his first competition, but by the time he graduated from high school, he had set American records in drug-free power lifting in the adult open class. Following his success as a powerlifter, he began entering bodybuilding competitions. In November 2006, the boy formerly known as “the bag of bones” became Mr. Universe. When he’s getting ready for a contest, Doug moves his testing frequency way, way up. Because his body fat is coming down so drastically, he starts using cardiovascular work to chase his glucose. He begins pulling off of bolus injections; instead, he moderates what he’s eating in conjunction with whatever training he’s doing. So he takes glucose when he knows he’s going to need it, and then does aerobic work right afterward to “just burn the heck out of it.” As his body fat keeps dropping, the whole mechanism keeps improving and improving. When he was first competing, Doug didn’t know any other athletes who had diabetes. He was aware of one other diabetic bodybuilder way back, but that fellow got into the anabolic scene. Doug’s never used drugs, but he trained at Gold’s Gym in Venice for seven or eight years, and the drug use there, he reports, was rampant. The organization within which he competes, the International Natural Bodybuilding Association, is completely clean and tests for everything under the sun. The two other bodybuilding organizations, however, are sullied by steroids. It’s unfortunate, he says, because steroid use has distorted a previously healthy quest to attain a classic figure, twisting it into a battle of cartoon characters. Doug’s never run into any prejudice against diabetes in the gym, though he is very open about testing and his pump. People sometimes give him the eye, thinking that insulin might be advantageous in competition, but insulin is of no use to him in that respect because if his insulin ever goes high, he can’t shed body fat and get lean enough to compete. For competitions, he brings his insulin dosage down to probably less than that of a non-diabetic person. Doug emphasizes that for him, it’s not about diet and exercise: It’s about exercise and diet. Exercise is primary. He says that diets are misleading, in that they promise that you can simply eat your way to health. He does have a particular diet that he follows, leaning a little more on protein. He “eats very, very clean” throughout the week and gives himself one day to enjoy whatever he feels like having. He loves Cajun food with a passion, and his favorite beer, Chili Creek, is spiced up by a big hot pepper inside the bottle. Doug doesn’t take any meds except children’s aspirin, but he takes a lot of supplements, including isolated whey plus whey concentrate, multi-vitamins and minerals, essential fatty acids, L-glutamine and carnatine. He notes a distinct beneficial effect when he takes supplements, which he uses to advantage when preparing for competition: He works without supplements until he is in the best possible shape, and then adds the supplements to take it up a notch. He notes that his way is the antithesis of the public’s inclination to take the magic potion right from the get-go. He has always done the work first and then used the supplements as an adjunct to the hard work. That stubbornness may be why Winston Churchill, the relentless bulldog of a man who refused to quit no matter what, is one of Doug’s favorite people. He was also inspired by Sampson, of course, by Dr. Billy Graham, and by Bo Jackson, whom he reveres as one of the greatest athletes of all time. His biggest inspirations are his three kids, ages twelve, ten, and eight. He’s no longer too concerned that his children
Professional Photographer/Film Director Kelsey McNeal
Kelsey McNeal has been involved in photography since the age of 6 due to his fathers influence. He has definitely come along way since snapping shots as a young kid. Although he has had great success in the world of photography he did not make a decision to lean on his past accomplishments, Kelsey is reaching for higher ground by interchanging his photo camera for a film camera, as he gets set to film his first film “PURE.” Kelsey always had a knack for taking good pictures, whether it was at family functions or just on his travels, he is a consummate artist at heart, bundle that with creative, the desire for knowledge and a drive , well you had the recipe for success. His creative vision allowed him to see stories in a photo, so knowing this he made it a point to envision the story in every picture he took. After graduating from college, Kelsey quickly began work in the television and film industry. In 1993 he had the ability to join the Cinematographers Union thus taking him one step closer to his true calling, even though he didn’t know it yet. He had the privilege to work on several film and television projects such as “How Stella Got Her Groove Back”, “Heat”, “L.A. Confidential”, “Wonderboys”, “Set It Off”, “Gone In 60 Seconds”, “The Other Sister”, “Bandits”, “Life As a House”, “V.I.P”, “Boston Public”, “The District”, “24”, “So You Think You Can Dance”, “American Idol”, “Dancing With The Stars”, and the list goes on. He has worked with major television networks such as ABC, NBC, Fox Television Network and Lifetime. While working with many distinguished Directors of Photography, Kelsey learned how to capture the beauty of a person, or the significance of a moment, and create art through the use of camera angles, lighting, location, wardrobe, and mood. Through it all, photography remained his true passion and in 2002 he made his passion a profession. After walking around trying to find himself, he took that walk with a camera in hand, snapping shots all over the world, still not knowing what he wanted to do, but all the while it was right in front of him, Photography. From celebrities to models, from fashion to editorial, landscapes to still life he has built quite an impressive portfolio. And in every photo he takes, you see the creative, artistic soul that makes Kelsey McNeal. As Ansel Adams once said, “There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer”. “Kelsey is one of the most talented photographers in the United States today, his vision and ability to tell such a story with every photo he takes is a gift that not many photographers or directors for that matter have. The natural progression for a creative soul like Kelsey is motion pictures and we look forward to him becoming one of the greats in Hollywood as his career progresses.” said Louis Velazquez, Host of the UCW Radio Show. To learn more about Kelsey McNeal go to www.kelseymcneal.com
Actress/Model Anna Easteden
Anna Easteden enjoys a career rich in experience and wide in range as an international model, TV, stage and screen actress, and humanitarian activist. Easteden is known for her performance as Bee Sting on “Who Wants to Be a Superhero?” as well as notable co-starring roles on “Bones,” “Days Of Our Lives” and “Passions.” She also played Nicole Brown Simpson in a Japanese TV movie and took on a lead role in the short film “Harmless,” winner of 2 prestigious film festival awards. Personally recruited by multi-award winning director Mika Kaurismaki (who’s directed the likes of Johnny Depp, Julie Delpy and Henry Thomas), Easteden is slated to star in his upcoming feature film “The House of Branching Love” (“Haarautuvan Rakkauden Talo”) set for release in her native Finland in Fall 2009. Easteden will also work alongside Oscar® nominee Rinko Kikuchi (“Babel”) in the Japanese remake of the Oscar®-winning American phenomenon “Sideways” – currently in post-production for a 2009 release. Easteden was born in Finland and raised on her parents’ dairy farm. At the early age of twelve, Anna’s career took its first major stride when she won a national modeling contest and appeared on her first Finnish magazine cover. Shortly thereafter, Anna received an international modeling contract with a major Japanese modeling agency and promptly relocated to Tokyo where she appeared in advertising campaigns for such mammoth international corporations as Sony, Phillips, Oricom and Wacoal – to name a few. Easteden’s modeling career next swept her off to such global destinations as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Slovakia, Guam and finally the United States. Once on US soil, Easteden quickly landed a series of major modeling gigs with Calvin Klein, Hermès, Salvatore Ferragamo, Diesel, T-Mobile, Avon, Jockey, Chevy and Nissan – and has been featured in such magazines asCosmopolitan, Harper’s Bazaar and Marie Claire. Easteden’s interests also include those in the humanitarian arena. Not something one might expect from a fashion model, Easteden conducted a comparative legal research study on the different aspects of asylum procedures in selected European countries for United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Bratislava, Slovakia. Her research impacted the Slovak National Asylum Legislation, which was in the process of amendment. Anna then continued her work in Bratislava, with an international partner of The Foundation for a Civil Society (USA), where she involved herself in the “Citizen Campaign OK ’98” for free and fair elections. Easteden currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband. In addition to her modeling and acting, Easteden enjoys traveling, cooking, writing, and lending a humanitarian hand to a number of her favorite non-profit organizations. Websites: www.annaeasteden.com Tweets by AnnaEasteden
From Bret Michaels Rock of Love/Charm School Cindy “Rodeo” Steedle
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have reality show star Cindy “Rodeo” Steedle on the show, she was featured in Bret Michaels’ Rock of Love as well as Sharon Osborne’s Charm School on VH1. Cindy “Rodeo” ‘s story is one of not giving up, from her battle with cancer to battling with her pregnancy and all in between. She is not only a reality show star but she is a top personal trainer, spokesperson for various products, figure competitor and above all a great mom. This interview is one of survival and standing tall, something that Cindy did with some, but shadow it with a smile and a cheerful laugh. She talks about her involved with support our troops, visiting V.A. hospitals and her charity guest appearances that have put a smile on U.S. Soldiers, this is a must listen to interview as it shows you whole the real Cindy Steedle aka “Rodeo” is. Websites: www.crodeo.net http://www.vpxsports.com/ http://www.countrygirljeans.com/
Radio Show Host David Webb
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have host of the radio show “The Grinder” David Webb on the Show. David Webb is a communicator with over 15 years of entertaining and informing the public; a dynamic blend of experience as a Local & Syndicated Talk Show Host, Music On-Air Personality, Producer, Assistant Program Director and Promotion Director; all in Top 10 Markets. A storied run during his radio career has led him through Boston, New York City, Houston and Dallas, and landed him at great stations like WILD-AM, WHTZ-FM, KZFX-FM, KLOL-FM, KKTL-FM (Houston’s first FM Talker) and KRLD-AM. David made the jump to talk, local and syndicated while in Houston with Consumer Finance, LoveRocks and Reality Check; then on to Dallas as Host of “USA@Nite” on the USA Radio Network with KRLD-AM as his flagship station. He has ventured into the print world with Worcester Magazine and the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. David spent some of his time in Dallas as a Decennial Manager for the US Bureau of the Census, responsible for an 8-city region and then various survey projects in TX, LA and MS. He has been recognized for his work by then-Director, Kenneth Prewitt. Active in politics on the local and national level, David is a member of the WNRC’s Henrietta Wells Livermore School of Politics. He is co-founder and moderator of the American Forum Series and Black Republican Forum,co-organizer of the NYC Tax Day Tea Party and co-founder of Tea Party 365, a non-partisan, non-profit advocacy group for fiscal responsibility. Another constant theme is David’s commitment to community through organizations like the Young Marines. A television and radio commentator, David has appeared on radio and TV nationally – CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox News Strategy Room; internationally on BBC Radio and TV, NDTV/India, Dutch National TV, in Saudi Arabia, Germany, Japan, France and Canada. David is a contributing editor to FamilySecurityMatters.org, to American Solutions, and the fill-in host for Andrew Wilkow on SIRIUS Patriot 144 and XM America Right 166. Websites: www.thegrindershow.com www.teaparty365.org
Herbagirl International Founder Lisa Sowle
Lisa Sowle is the founder of Herbagirl International, she hails from Houston TX. At 35 years old, Lisa is the mother of three beautiful girls known affectionately as “The Sowle Sisters” in the world of skateboarding. Her main quote that you can hear her say on any given day is “I LOVE LIFE” Sowle has struggled with being overweight after the birth of her first child. So she tried numerous ways to try and shed those post birth pounds, from diet pills, crazy diets, all the way to starving herself but nothing worked. She admits that at that point she pretty much had given trying to lose weight because she was running out of money and hope! She saw a friend pretty much melt from a size 16 to a 6, and she was 20 years older than Sowle, this was the fire that she needed to want to make this happen for herself. She did the program that her friend did to lose weight, and Lisa Sowle succeeded! Now it has been 10 years since she first shed that 50lbs m going from a tight 12, she admits, to a slim size 4, and she has continued to maintain that slim size 4 through following the guidelines that she set forth in her Herbagirl program. To find out more about Lisa Sowle go to www.lisasowle.com
Actress Joanna Ke
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Actress Joanna Ke on the Show. Up and coming actress Joanna Ke is quickly becoming known as a power house in the independent film community. In “References”, a romantic comedy about a group of 20-somethings in a small town, Ke steals every scene with her portrayal of diabolical Cora. Recently, she co-starred with Sarah Chalke and Leisha Hailey in “Maneater” playing a character completely opposite to her role in “References”, showing her versatile talents. “Maneater” is a Lifetime television miniseries directed by Timothy Busfield and based on the book of the same name by Gigi Levangie. Ironically, Joanna rarely watches romantic comedies in her free time, leaning more towards sci-fi and fantasy as she’s had a lifelong fascination with the paranormal and cryptozoology. However, when it comes to her work, the most important thing for her is not the genre, but to have fun with the character, the people she’s working with, and the story. Ke’s voracious passion for acting led her to study with over 15 acting coaches. One of her primary mentors is an Emmy-award winning producer. Her extensive training, professionalism, and laser-sharp focus on-set afforded her a stellar reputation in the acting community in Arizona. In March 2009, she made the move to LA to further her career and, within 2 months, booked her first gig. She signed with manager Scottie Ward of CCM in July. With the indie horror flick “The Crypt” currently out on DVD, she recently completed a run in the play “8 Shades of Alice.” Her next projects include starring in the title role of the short “Trixie Woo” shooting in November, the release of the feature thriller “Avè Maria” on DVD in fall 2010, the release of the comic to film adaptation “Villikon Chronicles: Genesis of Evil” as well as subsequent comics drawn in her likeness, and, of course, procuring theatrical representation in California. Websites: www.joannake.com http://joannake.wordpress.com/
MTV Real World Star/Music Recording Artist Brianna Taylor
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the talented Brianna Taylor on the show, she is a recording artist and star of MTV’s Real World Road Rules “The Ruins.” Youth, beauty, confidence and talent… Brianna Taylor is blessed with many gifts that move people to react to her in many different ways. She shares her gifts with the world in two ways – by releasing her sophomore album Fireworks At The Fairground via Chamberlain Records and by appearing on THE REAL WORLD – ROAD RULES CHALLENGE “The Ruins” (September 29th, 2009 premiere). After the release of Brianna Taylor’s Spring 2008 self-titled EP, which showcased her vocal ability and garnered much attention in the music landscape, her new album promises even greater notoriety! The sound encompasses a matured Taylor, with an R&B flare that was not present on her debut album. While controversy seemed to follow the 20- year-old Philadelphia native wherever she went in years past, it has led Brianna to become an individual who is honest, outspoken, and unwilling to be mistreated. Brianna chooses to live life on her own terms with an adventurous nature that has admittedly led to a few mistakes in life. Brianna moves on from these mistakes without regret – they have made her into the woman she is today. Music has always been in Brianna’s life. Her early favorites – Natalie Cole, Anita Baker, Sarah Vaughn, Nina Simone, Judy Garland, and Lena Horne – laid the groundwork for her singing style. Christina Aguilera and Hayley Williams of Paramore are more recent favorites along with another influence, Amy Winehouse. “Amy Winehouse is amazing. She delved into musical history and brought it into the modern music scene,” says Brianna. The flair she brought into indie music is so strongly felt.” Brianna’s creative history stems from a long line of talent in her family. Her grandmother was a singer on the radio with her sisters for many years and she passed her love for singing onto her granddaughter. Brianna’s mother was an actress and model, her uncle plays the drums, and her sister is “an amazing dancer” according to the songstress. For everyone in her family, the creative experience has been a cathartic, emotionally laden one. “I can forget everything and just rock out,” she says of the personal effect of singing. Brianna feels that “if someone isn’t really feeling the words they are singing, there is no point in listening. So few singers really make me feel the emotion of the song. I think about that and strive to do that for the listener.” The story of Brianna’s life has certainly some twists and turns. In her earlier years, encouragement from family was rare. As the years went by, it was equally scarce from ex-boyfriends. One of Brianna’s ex-boyfriends abused her and taught her an unfortunate lesson in human nature. When a subsequent boyfriend (the one she spoke of on THE REAL WORLD- Hollywood) laid his hands on her, Brianna (literally) fought back. “Men seem to think it’s okay to restrain your girlfriend. I had every right in the world to fight back,” she explains. A result of this altercation was charges being pressed on her (which Brianna heard about once she got to the REAL WORLD house) and her being sentenced to anger management classes and probation. Brianna’s MTV celebrity status is still something that is taking a bit of getting used to. “I am recognized on the street a lot lately,” she notes. “I am loving every minute of it though. People are nice when they approach me, saying ‘You’re so real and honest. How is your singing career going?’ They are supportive and I love that!” This appreciation has bred closeness with her fans. Brianna gives her fan email lots of attention, personally answering as much as possible. Brianna has been through a considerable amount in her mere 21 years of life. She has opened up her everyday life to public scrutiny via MTV shows like THE REAL WORLD and her new sound on Fireworks At The Fairground goes even deeper and lays her emotions bare as well, this time with a matured personal musical style. “Brianna Taylor actually impressed me , being only 20 and having the full view of the reality TV world was refreshing, after listening to her new single “Criminal”, well the girl has talented, we’ll be seeing a lot of this young songstress for years to come,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: http://www.myspace.com/briannataylorofficial http://twitter.com/BTMusicGrrl
Founder of DiMora Motorcar Alfred DiMora
Louis Velazquez had the unique opportunity to conduct an in-depth interview with a Modern Day Tony Stark, an innovator in some many areas, Alfred DiMora’s journey is one of the most inspirational that we have had on the show, its a story of coming from nothing and building an empire, the American Dream, Alfred DiMora is a prime example of that dream. Alfred DiMora is a native of Rochester, New York, Alfred J. DiMora was fascinated by cars from the age of ten. He worked at service stations in his early teens, during which time he rebuilt a burned-out 1939 Buick before he was old enough to drive. Working in a co-op program, he earned his machinist degree and became a certified welder. In 1976, Mr. DiMora came to Santa Barbara, California to design and build limited-production luxury cars at Clenet Coachworks, as employee number six. Over the next seven years, he took control of Clenet, while also forming Sceptre Motorcar Company. His Sceptre won the Best-of-Show award at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 1978. As owner, CEO, and Chief Automotive Designer at Clenet, he created the Series IV and Series V Clenets. Altogether, over 580 Clenets were produced and sold to celebrities, royalty, and other motor enthusiasts around the world. President Reagan declared 1986 the Centennial Year of the Gasoline-Powered Automobile. Mr. DiMora’s Clenet was selected as the Official Centennial Car. As a result, he and the automobile were honored at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Michigan (pictured at right). Clenets were called “Drive Art” by Automotive Age and the “American Rolls-Royce” by Fortune. As an entrepreneur and business consultant, Mr. DiMora has advised and built companies in industries as diverse as chemical recycling, public relations management, software development, television infomercial production, and real estate development. In the mid-1990s, he innovated in chemical recycling, automobile and truck antifreeze production and distribution, and hazardous waste management at PRS, Inc., in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served on the American Society of Testing and Materials Committee as the first non-chemist. During this period, he created and marketed the first ready-to-use 50/50 antifreeze, which quickly went on to be a bestseller. In 1997, Mr. DiMora founded Star Bridge Systems, Inc. to advance reconfigurable computing technologies. Star Bridge created powerful, high-performance computer platforms and a new software language called Viva, for a new supercomputer platform called hypercomputing. Star Bridge customers include NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and the National Cancer Institute. Mr. DiMora served as Chairman, CEO, and President before leaving the firm to return to California to pursue his first love—motorcars. Mr. DiMora is a major participant in the development of Voyager, the world’s largest Ferris wheel. The first two 600-foot diameter wheels will be built in Las Vegas and Dubai. Sir Alfred J. DiMora was inducted into the Knights of Malta in 2001. He is a member of the Motor Press Guild and the Society of Automotive Engineers. He lives in Palm Springs, California, with his wife, Yvonne, and stepdaughter, Chanel. His stepson, Josh, is in the U.S. Marine Corps. Clenet Clenet is arguably the most beautifully styled automobile series ever built. Each limited-production model was conceived, designed, and produced by a small team of dedicated men and women in Santa Barbara, California in the 1970s and 1980s. The automobile’s distinctive 1930s styling and meticulous hand craftsmanship turned heads wherever they went. Clenets boasted the latest in drive train and suspension system technology under a body of steel giving them superior reliability to go with their beauty. Features such as Italian walnut burl dashboards and etched glass accented by Waterford crystal ashtrays brought many Clenet models under Alfred DiMora’s leadership in at over $100,000. In those days, you could buy a nice house for that price tag. That didn’t stop an eclectic group of buyers ranging from Farrah Fawcett, Rod Stewart, Ken Norton, and Sylvester Stallone to King Hussein of Jordan. Mr. DiMora’s Clenet was selected as the Official Centennial Car in 1986, the year that President Reagan declared the Centennial Year of the Gasoline-Powered Automobile. This put Alfred DiMora and the Clenet into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Michigan. Clenets were called “Drive Art” byAutomotive Age and the “American Rolls-Royce” by Fortune. Sceptre 6.6S 1978 Prototype During the late 1970s, Alfred DiMora and Ray Kinney, two members of the Clenet team, joined Tom McBurnie to form Sceptre Motorcar Company to design and produce a unique luxury sports car. The Sceptre 6.6S was an art deco design with the flavor of the late 1930s classics. This hand-crafted, limited-production, specialty car was reminiscent of such vehicles as Delage, Delahaye, Bugatti, 1935 BMW, Alfa Romeo, 500 XK Mercedes, as well as the 1950s Jaguar. Perhaps the closest car of this style is the Talbot-Lago. Yet the Sceptre is not a replica of any one automobile. Appointments included hand-rubbed lacquer paint and an interior of Connelly leather and walnut burl that complemented the latest in drive train and suspension technology. The Sceptre won the Best-of-Show award at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 1978. Sceptre Motorcar Company produced 15 of these $39,000 automobiles ($50,000 for the turbocharged version) that emphasized sporty features compared to the luxury of the Clenet series of automobiles. Many of these automobiles were acquired by celebrities and dignitaries. The sixteenth was never completed from the factory but exists uncompleted to this day. The body of the Sceptre is made of fiberglass applied to a tubular steel frame. Only the doors are made of steel. The engine is a powerful 400-horsepower V8 connected to a three-speed automatic transmission. The Sceptre will go 0-60 in 7.2 seconds. The weight of the entire car is slightly over 3,000 pounds. The Sceptre is known for its high reliability factor. It is said that no other car has been built like the Sceptre with the exception of the Ferrari. Many articles were written on the Sceptre at its introduction, including: an article by Dennis Adler which appeared in the March 1979 edition of Car Collector,
Original Bad Boy of Wall Street Ross Mandell
Facing Life is not such an easy thing to do. Just ask Ross Mandell. He’s had good times and bad. His highs have been higher than most, and his lows have likewise been lower than most. At the young age of 16 Mandell’s father died suddenly of a massive heart attack. Left without a father, his world shattered, Mandell’s life became rudderless. As he was quoted in the Wall Street Journal, he “lived life in the fast lane.” All that came to a screeching halt 17 years later. Mandell Discovers he has a Disease – Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, During those 17 years, Mandell also became one of the most successful stock brokers on Wall Street. He was part of the telecommunications boom in the late 70s and early 80s that brought Wall Street to Main Street. Along the way, he raised hundreds of millions of dollars for companies and made millions for himself. Yes, the good times were indeed quite good. However, Mandell discovered he had a disease. He suffered from alcoholism and drug addiction. Mandell became a poster child for the go-go days and the boom times on Wall Street. On March 14th, 1996, a front page news article titled, “The Art of Survival,” that appeared in the Wall Street Journal profiled Mandell. “That story threw my life open to the public,” says Mandell, “I was clean and sober for six years, but it discussed the issues and challenges I had with substance abuse.” The echoes of that story have continued to reverberate throughout Mandell’s life and have become an indelible part of his persona. In June 2002, a front page story in the leading daily British newspaper, The Observer, led with the following headline, “Greed is Good Comes to London.” The caption further states, “Gordon Gekko Style Investment banking comes to London in the persona of Ross Mandell.” Naturally, the paper is referring to the lead character played by Michael Douglas in Oliver Stone’s 1987 Oscar-winning film, Wall Street. For all practical purposes, Gekko’s character could likely have been based on Mandell’s life. In October, 2005, Forbes Magazine in a two page spread proclaimed Mandell as Wall Street’s “bad boy broker,” in an article titled, Second Act, which featured Ross Mandell and Sky Capital’s success in the Wall Street arena. One fateful day, September 27th, 1973, a day that changed Mandell’s life forever, David Mandell, Ross’s father, unexpectedly died from a heart attack on Rosh Hashanah, a religious holiday. Thus began a whirling dervish of Dionysian decadence for nearly two decades. Mandell now found himself bottomed out, burned out and broke. Mandell was a living cliché. Lots of money, fast cars, fast women, and all the trappings of early success. From the outside he had it all. On the inside he was empty. Of that moment, Mandell says, “I woke up one day and realized I couldn’t continue to live like this, I was a wreck and a million dollars in debt, all at the age of 33.” In October, 1990, Mandell checked himself into the Silver Hill Foundation, a world famous rehabilitation clinic, in New Canaan, Connecticut. He was there for 28 days. It was the first time that he was clean and sober since his teen years. At Silver Hill, he was introduced to the 12-Step Program, Alcoholics Anonymous. “The AA program is amazing,” says Mandell, “my life changed immediately for the better.” AA is a spiritual program that emphasizes personal admission, moral inventory and service. “Recovery is not an easy thing,” says Mandell, “its’ a daily struggle and the most difficult thing I have accomplished in my life.” On October 12th, 2009, Mandell celebrated 19 years of continuous sobriety. Upon leaving Silver Hill, Mandell’s personal and professional life, bolstered by the principals of AA, became better than ever. Built like a bull-dog, dressed in the finest suits, with the swagger of body-builder meets investment banker, Mandell dedicated himself to work, fitness and sobriety. Mandell’s public profile continued to grow and earn him close media attention as well as scrutiny by financial regulators. In 1995, in a blanket settlement with the New York Stock Exchange, he was suspended from securities dealing for six weeks. In another instance he settled a difference with a trading client for $75,000. “That’s the price you pay when your professional and personal life become public,” says Mandell. The 90s were a great time to be on Wall Street. Fueled by a stimulated Clinton economy and a technology boom, the capital markets expanded to new heights. During the next decade Mandell went on to work for, founded and funded many companies. Along the way he closed scores of transactions worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Mandell, with two other partners, went on to create Roan Capital Partners, a New York City-based, NASD registered broker-dealer. After leading and successfully managing its rapid growth Mandell sold his interest and went on to join the Thornwater Company as a Senior Vice President. By the end of the 90s Mandell felt the market changing. “The boom was about to bust,” says Mandell of that time, “and I thought this the right moment to try something new and different.” Mandell, ever independent, intuitive and entrepreneurial, decided to start an international Merchant Bank and stock broker, Sky Capital Holdings. He raised $9 million dollars to seed the venture, but even more dramatically, Mandell brought his company overseas. “I was the first American to bring a regulated U.S. company to the London Stock Exchange,” says Mandell. In July 2002, Sky Capital went public on London’s Alternative Investment Market. On the day it went public the company was valued at more than $30 million. On two separate occasions, Ross Mandell and Sky Capital were privileged to speak and to host luncheons in the British Parliament. Matthew Carrington, a former member of the British Parliament, and Alexander Duma, a parliamentary appointee, were also members of the Board of Sky Capital, as was former Senator, Larry. L Pressler. According to
All American EFX Nutrition Founder Brian Andrews
Interview with All American EFX supplement company founder Brian Andrews. Brian Andrews is the President of All American EFX, one the fastest growing Sport Nutrition Companies in the industry. They are best known for their multi-patented, award-winning creatine product, Kre-Alkalyn® EFX. Brian is the author of “Creatine: Industry Insider Secrets Revealed”. He was a featured expert in the book, “The Dangers of Creatinine” and a guest on numerous industry-related radio shows. Brian has been involved with Bodybuilding and Powerlifting for over 22 years. He currently lives in Bakersfield, California, with his wife and their 3 kids. What Is The “EFX Way”? Like most people, we spent the early years of our training careers beating our heads against the same proverbial wall as every other athlete looking for the magic “secret”. We know the pain and frustration of being skinny, weak, and feeling inferior. After trying every new supplement and training program we could find, we realized that each athlete (us included) faced the same three problems: 1) Too much B.S.! It’s nearly impossible to know where to go or who you can trust for real unbiased information about what works and what doesn’t, 2) Not having the genetics or “pharmaceutical” connections it takes to become an elite competitor. 3) Lack of quality products that meet label claims…and actually work! It continued to get more and more frustrating. Then one day, we decided we’d had enough. That’s when we decided to create a company that could help athletes everywhere overcome these three problems listed above: All American EFX. Our unique approach to business, the principles we follow, combined with our passion for excellence developed into what we now call the “EFX Way’. Our Passion Became Our Vision We started in this industry as consumers just like you. That’s why we decided to do things differently from day one. You see, we knew the last thing this industry needed was another supplement company pitching an endless array of fancy products with slick labels, pushed by overhyped ads. Instead we committed ourselves to our vision of creating something for our customers something that truly serves their needs and will ultimately live on past us—our legacy. It’s an ongoing, never ending process because there is always room for improvement. But just like building the ‘perfect’ body, there are few pursuits more fulfilling. We want to help you get the most out of your body; to find your limits, and then push past them by using cutting-edge supplements… instead of drugs. This way you maximize the benefits while minimizing the side-effects and risks commonly associated with drugs. In the end, we steadfastly and unapologetically believe we offer the very best way to do it. We’re Advocates For The “Bodybuilding Lifestyle” – Or What We Call The “EFX Way” Why? Because we believe it offers more advantages than almost anything you can do. Not to mention nearly every other exercise discipline has bodybuilding principles, in one way or another, at its core. Unfortunately, bodybuilding has somehow become more and more about “appearance at all costs” than anything else. Seriously, who cares if you look great on the outside, but you’re more like a rotten potato on the inside? That’s not the bodybuilding we know and love. We think it’s time to redefine what bodybuilding means…to take it back to why most people started doing it in the first place: for improved health, greater self-esteem and improved performance. (Of course, looking great certainly doesn’t hurt either!). Our version of bodybuilding is all about the journey you take while pursuing your version of perfection. It’s the sacrifice and the discipline. It’s doing what others are simply NOT willing to do or only wish they could. Furthermore, there are thousands of bodybuilders who are just as “hardcore” as any Pro when it comes to the day-in, day-out dedication and full on blood-and-guts training it takes to build a more muscular body. The fact is, most of these people will never set foot on a competitive stage. Life is their stage. And we say it’s about time all these individuals were recognized for their efforts too. Our Commitment Is To Your Success We know that real success comes from an ongoing relationship; not just selling you products. Our business philosophy is simple: When you grow and succeed, we grow and succeed. Some companies will tell you what you want to hear to make a sale. Instead, we tell you what you need to hear in order to grow and succeed. And we love building quality products that help make it happen faster and easier for you. The “get big quick” merchants have failed you. They play games with your self-esteem. Fly-by-night companies take your money and don’t deliver. Others just flat-out insult your intelligence. That’s why we take pride in the fact that we’re straight shooters. There aren’t any tricks in what we do; it’s just good old-fashioned principles at work. And if some see our “straight-up, no-nonsense” approach as a gimmick, so be it. We can’t please everybody. It can take years to win a customer…but only seconds to lose one. That’s why we believe the best way to let you know we truly uphold our values — the very values in which you invest your trust — is to open our doors and let you confirm it for yourself so you can hold us accountable. We Don’t Play Games… We Just Help You Win Them We love what we do, and we have fun doing it. We try not to take ourselves too seriously here at All American EFX. But we are dead serious when it comes to helping people build real, drug-free muscle. We always have been, and will always be, committed to doing whatever benefits our customers the most. We’re here to give you the tools, information and inspiration you need to reach your goals. As we lead the Sports Nutrition Industry into a new era of innovation, information and integrity, our Mission, combined with the needs of our customers, will determine
Comedian Amy Tee
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Comedian Amy Tee on the show. In the world of comedy , fans usually only see the end result, they see the performance on stage or in film and television, now the journey to that point is a different matter entirely. During this great segment with comedian Amy Tee we hear about the struggles involved for her to get to this point in her career, from having to deal with the concern of her well being solely because she may have performed at a location that doesn’t accept the alternative lifestyle. Initially we weren’t really sure where the conversation would lead but it gave our listeners a greater insight into this great comedian, and above that she is a dynamite person. Too often people fail to see what happens behind the great curtain where the “Great Oz” resides, but if you take the time to pull back that curtain as we do with the UCW Radio Show, you will see that amidst all the hoopla, hype, lights and cameras, there are real people there, just like you and me. So we make it a point to bring that to the table as we did with Amy Tee, now here is a little more about Amy Tee. Identified as a rising star by the Boston Globe, Amy Tee is one of the busiest comedians on the New England scene. Her surprising observations and illuminating presence have scored points with mainstream and alternative audiences from Los Angeles to Provincetown, whether she’s performing in world famous comedy clubs, theaters, or lesser-known holes in the wall. Her takes on life as a “lesbian in the mainstream” are delivered with a quiet style that belies its edgy content, leading the audience to laughter and nods of agreement. Amy is a regular performer at the Boston Comedy Festival, and audio clips of her performances there have been played on XM Satellite Radio. In 2007, Amy headlined her own show “Tee”’Zing her way to the Top” in Provincetown, and was the co-headliner in “Two Dyke Minimum,” a standup tour that played in clubs and theaters in six northeast states. She currently stars in the film “Laughing Matters…Next Gen” airing on LOGO. Tee is a superb comedian, but all of that aside she is an awesome person, after speaking with her during her trip to New York, I learned so much about her and her struggles and triumphs in the world of comedy, nothing candy coated. This is a person that appreciates all that life has given her and has such a positive attitude, we look for great things from Amy Tee, her future is bright, her attitude is poised for greatness,” said Louis Velazquez – Host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: http://www.amytee.com/ http://www.myspace.com/amyteehee
Film Director and Actress Rita B-Lamote
At 12 years old, Rita B-Lamotte was selected to be a part of a theatrical group called : “le theatre du grand bleu”. At 17, she put her feet for the first time on the movie set: “Gladiator” by Ridley Scott. And “film biz” was discovered… From there, all started for her. Front this point in, it all started. Then, Rita went to Nice, France to study psychology at Sophia-Antipolis University where she got her Master’s degree. During her studies, her love for cinema never left her. She then attended UCLA Extension where she received the director’s certificate in “ Film and entertainment study”. There she got noticed by USC’s Teachers, and had the opportunity to follow the USC program. Meanwhile, Rita went on sets of big productions as: “The Transporter”, “Brice de Nice”, “What just Happened”, “Prince of Persia”, “Mogadishu”… as Actor, background actor (or as PA for learning process)… Today, Rita pursues her career as an actress and a writer Rita is open to working with up and coming producers and directors globally with the right projects, she can be reach on her directors website which is http://www.rikitafilm.com Fans can learn more about Rita by going to her official website at www.ritablamotte.com Websites: Directors Site: www.rikitafilm.com Official Site: www.ritablamotte.com
Martial Arts Leader Master Alan Goldberg
Master Alan Goldberg has 37 years experience in the martial arts and has been inducted in 36 Halls of Fame. Among the other systems he has studied besides studying Wing Chun Kung Fu, he has also studied Five Animal Kung Fu and Shotokan karate. He now devotes his time to the teaching of Wing Chun. He is the creator of Law Enforcement Survival Systems (L.E.S.S.), which was taught to the New York City Emergency Service Unit of the police department. He is also the New York State Commissioner of ORA. Master Goldberg is Grandmaster Jason Lau’s number one disciple, having been right alongside him from his days in the Flatbush Avenue neighborhood. He has been seen and heard in magazines, newspapers, television, cable, and radio throughout the United States. He also has several instructional video credits, and is also the publisher of Action Martial Arts Magazine. Action Martial Arts Magazine is a quarterly publication for Martial Artists, which contains a variety of articles and interviews from various masters and celebrities in the martial arts world. Articles range in content from nutrition in the martial arts to advisement by masters on how to improve your skills. It is the official magazine carrying the ratings for F.A.M.E, New England Karate Commission and the Work Karate Union. After ten years, they have grown to become the largest FREE FULL COVERAGE magazine on the market today. Recently, they put together and carried out the largest Martial Arts Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony and weekend ever seen in the history of the martial arts. It was held January 20th, 2001 at the Tropicana Hotel and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ, and was the largest catered event in Atlantic City history, PERIOD. There were 1400 Martial Arts personalities and Hollywood celebrities in attendance, including Gary Alexander, Cynthia Rothrock, Dan Severn, Phil Morris, Master Pan, Joe Hess, Michael DePasquale Jr., Meridith Hunt and Joe Piscopo. Official Website www.alangoldberg.net Event Website: www.actionmagstore.com
Film/TV Producer/Music Legend Brett Hudson
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Hollywood mainstay and a true warrior as he battled/won his fight against cancer, the great Brett Hudson on the show. Brett Hudson is Kate Hudson’s uncle! That’s what his friends say nowadays, but back in the Seventies, Brett was a star in his own right. With Bill and Mark, he was one of The Hudson Brothers, network television comedy stars and Top 40 recording artists signed to Elton John’s Rocket Records and produced by Bernie Taupin. Their CBS prime-time series, The Hudson Brothers Show, the summer replacement for The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour put them on the map and began a friendship with Cher that flourishes to this day. The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show twisted the minds of a generation and led their drinking buddy John Lennon to dub them “The Kings of Saturday morning.” Brett and his brothers later wrote, produced and starred in the hit international TV series, Bonkers, Showtime’s first comedy film shorts, and the 1983 film comedy, Hysterical. Then he lost his hair and moved on to a prosperous writing and producing career that included the Showtime series, A Family Tree; Fox Television’s Bizarre Moments, Hidden Videos, and Your American Pop Quiz; and a number of comedy specials including The Cindy Williams Comedy Special on the Family Channel. He returned to performing with brother Mark in King World’s off-the-wall comedy series, Offshore Television, which he also wrote and produced. Brett also wrote sitcoms and film scripts and recently produced the popular DVD, Christian Comedy Live! (When asked by an Nashville newspaper reporter to cite an example of good Christian comedy, Brett replied, “Jerry Seinfeld.” Think about it.) Today, an unexpected Hudson Brothers renaissance is underway with the release this month of their Razzle Dazzle shows on DVD. “Brett’s warrior spirit is truly one of inspiration and courage, from his times with Farrah Fawcett to his path to fighting for his life and then paying it forward today, I was honored to have him on the UCW Radio Show,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.frozenpictures.com
Martial Artist / Action Film Actress Suzzana Stefankovicova
Interview with Martial Arts Action Star Suzzana Stefankovicova interviewed by Louis Velazquez I want to take this opportunity to thank Suzzana once again for granting me this interview. She is one of the most genuine and sweet hearted people in martial arts and Hollywood for that matter. I am proud to know her and be able to tell her story to the young martial artist worldwide that have supported Karate Kidz Online and Suzzana in our endeavors. She has been and always will be an inspiration to me and I know that she has had that effect on many young martial artist and action stars around the globe. December 2002 Interview LV: HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN MARTIAL ARTS SS: I started when I was ten. My father decided to take me and my sister to dojo after a group of older boys from the street we lived in, have beaten us up . The moment I stepped in , I knew that the atmosphere there wouldn’t let me leave so easily. I was amazed and fascinated by all those weird movement our master would teach us . It was fun for me, though my sister hated all that running around the dojo and as she confessed later on, while torturing herself by stretching her legs, she’s been actually observing the details of the fabrics her tracksuit were made of . My sister quit to do dancing and i went on with karate. LV: HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING AND WHO WAS YOUR MAIN INSPIRATION? SS: It was in 1985 when I started martial arts. At that time ,for most of the people in my country, the notion of martial arts was something new or even unknown .There haven’t been many martial artist in Eastern Europe at that time. Because the doors to the Western world have been closed to most of the eastern European countries , there were just few masters coming to our country from Asia to teach their culture and mainly martial arts. Because there was no chance for us to travel abroad at that time, it was very hard if not almost impossible to see any foreign movies in our theatres. There have been just few action movies we got a chance to see with Jean Claude van Damme in the late 80´s, but that was about it. We never got to see Jackie Chan or Jet Li movies. People would talk about Bruce Lee in the dojo, but that’s as far as it went. However, when I look back and think about movies with van Damme I have to say I was impressed. Even though I didn’t have a chance to see many action stars I must confess that I really liked his style. I was impressed by his flexibility ,high kicks and very clear technique , thought it was really amazing . So… yes, I can say that he was my main inspiration at the very beginning. LV: MARTIAL ARTS HAVE BECOME A PART OF OF YOUR LIFESTYLE, DO YOU PLAN ON INCREASING YOUR KNOWLEDGE OR ARE YOU CONTENT? SS: Oh yeah! I`m just little bit afraid that one life would not be enough to learn everything I`m planning to! There are still so many things to learn! I would love to learn more and more styles of martial arts, get deeper into psychology and philosophy and to start writing more articles of this kind. To motivate people and encourage them to step out on their life journey in a direction they consider to be right and also not to be afraid to make their dreams come true. So let’s go! Gooo! Me myself am only at the very beginning of my journey ,in a constant process of learning, exploring and I hope constant growth too. I know this process will take throughout my whole existence. But I`m happy because with each and every day I`m learning something new and with each day I grow and I don’t know where the limits for this growth are. It’s amazing feeling and I’m having a fun! LV: DO YOU HAVE ANY MOVIES OR TELEVISION APPEARANCES ON THE HORIZON? SS: At this moment I`m probably gonna disappoint most of my fans. I`m taking a little break from action stuff , which means movies and TV works with martial arts included. Well…I didn`t really plan this break, but unfortunately my health condition is very weaken and doesn´t allow me to work . Hopefully It`s gonna take only a little time but I promise to my fans that all this waiting will be worth it! Meanwhile they can see me in some magazines here in US and in Europe. I however don´t drop out working on films or TV projects , but as already mentioned , my health problems don´t allow me to fully work at the moment .I will definitely keep you updated ,indeed. I would love to thank to all of my fans for their support and love! LV: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOW MARTIAL ARTS BECOMING A MAIN STREAM IN TODAY’S SOCIETY? SS: Martial arts is a life style and it has a strong spiritual background . It can teach and help us to choose our life journey , to step out in a direction that we consider thanks to these spiritual influences to be the right one for us. It can teach us to find important values in our lives , give us vital life energy, positive thinking, vitality, discipline, self-awareness and awareness of our needs. I also believe it does miracles to our body and mind when they´re weaken and suffer from lack of energy . What more can i add ??? I´ m really happy that more and more people are discovering the beauty and the power of martial arts and I´m honesty grateful that i can be a part of this all. I must have been blessed to be aware of all that great things martial arts
Based on HBO’s “True Blood” Series, It’s “Tru Blood” The Drink
Today on the UCW Radio Show UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez had the unique opportunity to have on the founder of Omni Consumer Products (OCP) Pete Hottelet, he is the brainchild behind a company that has spawned a new and groundbreaking marketing craze by bringing fictitious brands shown in movies and television series’ to life. Some of his past success launches include: Sex Panther Cologne,Licensed from the filmAnchorman. 60% of the time, it works every time and Brawndo: The Thirst Mutilator, Licensed from the Mike Judge film Idiocracy. It’s got what plants crave, His latest endeavor is Tru Blood, this is the popular drink of vampires on the HIT HBO series “TRUE BLOOD”, and due to the vision of Hottelet and a journey that was in effect well before the premiere of the first season of True Blood, now fans worldwide can be a part of the show by picking up a 2 pound glass of Tru Blood the Drink, it is an exact replication of the drink in the series and of course this is in a direct partnership with HBO. The drink which can be purchased now on their official websitewww.trubeverage.com , comes in red glass bottles made to look like the drink served on the series. The main difference being that the beverage consumer will be drinking is blood orange flavored soda rather than synthetic blood. I don’t think that the marketing would’ve went well with a drink that had a blood like taste, people they are trying to reach a mainstream consumer base and not the select few, sorry to disappoint you. The drinks can be ordered in 4 packs from HBO’s True Blood website at around $16 per 4 pack or approximately $4 a bottle plus shipping, now compare that to can of red bull or a coffee from Starbucks and you are not too far off. For those that do not want to pay the shipping, well you can wait for it to hit your local FYE or Borders, and you can buy it by the bottle and connect with the show in that way. Most marketing campaigns for a film or TV series, as far as beverages go, entail a plastic cup at McDonalds or Burger King with the pictures on it, years ago you actually has collectors glasses of your favorite sports team, so this is an evolution in the marketing strategies being launched at studios and in my opinion it is only the beginning. Granted at this point Tru Blood is identical in every way to the drink in the series but I am certain that there will be a number of ties ins, contest and more that will be exclusive to Tru Blood the beverage and True Blood the series, it just makes all the sense in the world. Look for Tru Blood to create lots of buzz when it hits the stores, although True Blood the series is more geared towards adults, with Alan Ball behind the show and a series of books lined up and more being written, the longevity factor is in place so expect Tru Blood the beverage to just increase in popularity once its available for mass consumption. – Louis Velazquez – Host of the UCW Radio Show Websites: www.trubeverage.com http://www.hbo.com/trueblood/
Former WCW Pro Wrestling Superstar The Stro
Robert Kellum aka The Stro and former WCW superstar known as “The Maestro” He is also actor but best known as The Maestro in World Championship Wrestling. He has also had success in the United States Wrestling Association and Smokey Mountain Wrestling, as well as the World Wrestling Council. One of his previous ring names, Gorgeous George III, is an homage to his great uncle, the original “Gorgeous”George Wagner. Kellum currently competes as The Stro across the U.S and overseas on occasion along with acting part time for television and film. He has also guest starred on several episodes of the television series One Tree Hill and is set to star in the upcoming horror films 12-24 and Deader Country. Having a theatrical and musical background in addition to having experience as a collegiate wrestler (which included freestyle/Greco-Roman wrestling), Kellum began training under veterans Nelson Royal, Gene Anderson and Ivan Koloff before making his professional debut on January 1, 1990 against ACW champion L.A. Stevens in Kannapolis, North Carolina. He wrestled Ivan Koloff and Chief Wahoo McDaniel early in his career and competed in many independent promotions in the southeast. Shortly after his debut on the independent circuit, he eventually appeared on WCW Saturday Night making his debut under the name Robbie Eagle against Sting in 1991. After his release from WCW, Kellum began operating a wrestling school out of Jacksonville, North Carolina. He later returned to the Southeastern area as The Stro competing for Atlantic Championship Pro Wrestling, Mason-Dixon Wrestling, the Independent Wrestling Federation, North American Championship Wrestling, and the National Wrestling Alliancewho has held victories over Demolition Ax, The Barbarian as well as faced “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan and Ivan Koloff. He was later defeated by Shark Boy in the opening round of Nick Mayberry’s HCW Incredible 8 Tournament on July 13, 2002. That same year, he Won the CAPW TV title and feuded with Balls Mahoney and other top stars of CAPW in Cleveland, Ohio. Kellum also won the ACCW title for a second time in a rumble match in Wilmington, NC and later feuded with Cold Cash D, Flex Phenom and Dave Renegade. Kellum became a two time NACW champion feuding with “Mr. USA” Tony Atlas, Ricky Morton, Jake Roberts, Carnage, and Brad Hunter, leader of a faction called “Damage Inc.” along with Main Attraction and Rico Rage. Facing his former tag team partner Lodi at PPCW in Conway, South Carolina, Kellum also won the SCW title in Dayton, Ohio. Stro won the WCEW title and feuded with Magnum T.R., Ali Steele, Ouga Booga, Justin Feeche, Bobby Eaton, and Aaron Devil. Was a part of the “Triple Heat” group along with Aaron Devil and Steve Michaels who was later replaced by P Roc. With “Mr. USA” Tony Atlas, The Patriot and Ranger Ross, he feuded with Ivan Koloff & The Russian Army in late 2005 as well as defeating The Barbarian at the Ricky Morton Benefit Show on February 2, 2006. He currently is still very active not only in the ring but outside as well training the next generation of pro wrestling superstars inside the walls of his North Carolina training facilities. Websites: www.thestro.com www.twitter.com/thestro
Michael Lohan, Father of Lindsay Lohan
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the father of actress Lindsay Lohan, Michael Lohan, on the show. This EXCLUSIVE interview was graciously given to the UCW Radio Show, Michael Lohan touches on his wishes for his daughter and a situation that involves the celebrity gossip reporter/writer/blogger Mario Lavandeira aka “Perez Hilton” , he was pretty direct with his thoughts on the media and his beliefs.
W1 MMA CEO Jack Bateman
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the co-founder of the top mixed martial arts organizations in Canada, Warrior One MMA or better known W1 MMA, Jack Bateman on the show. Jack Bateman is the President and CEO of Premier Entertainment and Warrior One Mixed Martial Arts. Jack was born and raised In Toronto, Ontario and is the son of a highly successful general contractor. Jack got in to the trades at age 17 and by 20 was the youngest licensed electrician in the province of Ontario . In 1998 Jack started a highly successful electrical contracting business. In 2000 Jack officially began his journey into martial arts training at Warrior MMA in Newmarket , Ontario . Jack forged a reputation as a high level competitor on Ontario jujitsu competition circuit for 5 years and was the winner of the Canadian jujitsu association 4 round tournament in 2006. In 2007 he was injured in training shortly after retired from competitive action. Over the years Jack has travelled the world and been actively involved in training and assisting some of Canada ’s best fighters in the world’s most prestigious mixed martial arts promotions including the UFC and Pride Fighting in Japan . Jack quickly fell in love with the sport of mixed martial arts and became one of Canada most knowledgeable individuals. Jack found however that many MMA promotions and promoters were only in the sport to make a quick buck which sullied the sport that he loved. In 2008 armed with years of experience in promotions, training, business and management Jack opted to start his own MMA promotion. Teaming up with Ian Brewster, Jack co founded Warrior One MMA. In less than a year Warrior One MMA has quickly established itself as Canada ’s premier MMA promotion and under the leadership of Bateman has forged a deal with the SCORE television network which will make Warrior One the highest watched Canadian based MMA event ever. And could be the most watched MMA second only to second only to the UFC for shows produced in Canada . ABOUT WARRIOR ONE MMA “W-1: WARRIOR-1” is The finest in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competition. The evolution of combat. Featuring only professional, elite fighters from around the globe, W-1 is a competitive event pitting warrior against warrior in hand-to-hand battles of skill, honor and art. From Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to wrestling, Muay Thai to boxing, all styles are encouraged. But, in order to consistently win, participants must be well versed in every aspect of the fighting game. W-1, It’s about punches, kicks, elbows, knees, big knockouts, technical submissions, take-downs and strategy. It’s like no other sport you’ve ever seen! W-1 continues to strive to take the sport to the mainstream. There are rules to protect the competitors and the sport is as safe, if not safer, than most of the major league American sports. Which style will reign supreme? Which man will be left standing? Who will be the number #1 WARRIOR? Each W-1 event features feature veteran fighters from some of the most prestigious mixed martial arts promotions including the UFC, PRIDE, APEX, IFL, KING OF THE CAGE and TKO. W-1‘s stable of fighters have fought around the globe and have held belts and won championships in every major MMA event. W-1 chooses only the best warriors to compete for glory and honor in the cage! W-1 events will feature a full 24™ circular cage with cat walk and in the tradition of some of the best MMA events from North America and Japan will also have special effects for grand entrances (cage lights, smoke, fire™ etc). This is where the action happens. This is where men go head to head and blow for blow. This is where men enter as men and leave as WARRIORS. Websites: www.w1mma.com
Cage Fighting Xtreme Founder Linda Shields
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Cage Fighting Xtreme Founder/Promoter Linda Shields on the Show. In a sport that is so clearly dominated by men one woman didn’t see that as a barrier but more of an opportunity. Linda Shields is the founder of Cage Fighting Xtreme, and is making noise through out the mixed martial arts world. The big day was January 12 2009, on that day Linda Shields went into the MMA history books by being one of the strongest MMA promoters not only in her own backyard of New England but through out the United States. Shields is a lady by every definition of the word but when it comes to Cage FX she rolls up her sleeves and takes it to the Xtreme. Her first major event was back in January of 2009 when Shields had the unique honor of being the first female MMA promoter in the New England area and rocked a 2,200 seat Worcester Palladium Arena. In the world of MMA promoting the gender shouldn’t be an issue, however it is a male dominated domain so when a female makes her make it sends s rumble from sea to shining sea, this is what Linda Shields did when she entered into the MMA promoting realm. Her motivation is simple, its behind the business aspect of it, in her own words, “The excitement, seeing the overwhelming response from the Full Force shows and interacting with the fans, the fighters, and the sponsors it’s a an exciting opportunity,” stared Shields. Now those of you that may not be familiar with Linda Shields, then lets clue you in , she is not a new kid on the block as it relates to the MMA arena, she has been the Marketing & Promotions Director for Full Force Productions, a MMA promoter based in Plymouth, Massachusetts which promotes MMA events under the “Untamed” banner, for well over a year. In her time there she learned a lot about appreciation , not just of the fans but the fighters, vendors, sponsors and the press, she holds everyone in the highest regard and does not take their part in the growth of Cage FX for granted. Although Cage FX was the latest upstart MMA promotion in the Northeast, it has quickly rose to the top of the MA promotion charts not only on a regional stand point but on a National stand point. Shields on Cage FX “I have absolutely no concerns about fans supporting Cage Fighting Xtreme, even with our falling economy I really believe people find the time and money for leisure and excitement. There is no shortage of sales for our shows, I really believe people find the time for excitement and that’s exactly what we’ll be giving them!” Shields has built the organization around the local talent , and that has proven to be a key point in not only curbing expenses but also growing the fan based in the area. Shields plans on keeping to that winning plan and this is what she had to say, “I’m weary of recruiting fighters from other states and other countries just because it’s taking a chance away from our local fighters, I want to help our local athletes promote themselves and showcase their talents. New England is packed with talented MMA athletes as we’ve already seen with the Lauzon’s, Kenny Florian, Josh Grispi, Marcus Davis, Dale Hartt, and Pat Schultz. Cage Fighting Xtreme will be the place where New England’s secondgeneration of MMA stars ignite their careers!” MORE ABOUT LINDA SHIELDS Linda Shields, founder and president of Cage Fighting Xtreme and the “first female promoter of mixed martial arts in New England,” has quickly become “the one to watch” in the fastest growing and ever changing ever world of MMA promotions. No stranger to the PR and marketing world, Linda spent eight years working for The Bean Agency PR firm in New York. She successfully implemented and oversaw marketing and sales strategies for Alaska Airlines, Smith & Wesson Club 1852, Reed Exhibitions Shot Show Outfitter’s Post, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and Shot Show TV Showcase. Shields even lead the team project to pass Senate Bill 659 that developed into Senate Bill 397 to ultimately ending in a law. After honing her skills as a marketing executive within the business, Linda, not one to shy away from a challenge, positioned herself to tap into the unused potential she saw within the sport by creating CFX in December of 2008. Since then, her and her team have managed not only to sell out venues, but have repeatedly set the record for the largest and most exciting events in the New England area. Also, with an extensive professional background, a love for extreme sports, (Shields is trained in firearms) and her experience in the entertainment industry in which she worked as a makeup artist to the stars. Linda made a seamless transition into the world of MMA Promotions by creating CageFX in September of 2008 with great success. Shields has a creative perspective on what it takes to keep an audience entertained while at the same time giving them top notch fights to keep them coming back for more. Live Music, fireworks, and celebrity sightings are just a few examples of what you may see at one of her events. Shields’ shows are repeatedly sold out events. She and her team have already set the record for the largest and most exciting MMA event to ever hit the New England area Combine all of this with her fierce, no nonsense approach to business, her exceptional dedication to her fighters (most of whom have signed on with CageFX exclusively,) and her love for the sport in general, and you have a force that the world of Mixed Martial Arts had best be ready to reckon with because Linda Shields, it seems, is about ready to take the industry by storm. “Linda Shields is the true definition
Author/Vintage Fashion Expert Roseann Ettinger
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Author and an authority on vintage clothing, fashion and jewelry, Roseann Ettinger on the show. Roseann Ettinger has always been fascinated with the history of fashion. She built and owns “Remember When”, a vintage clothing store in Hazleton Pennsylvania, and has taken the photographs for and written many books on twentieth century clothing and jewelry. Raised n Hazleton, PA and a graduate of Bloomsburg University, Roseann Ettinger has taken graduate studies at East Stroudsburg University. The wife of a retired army major, Mrs Ettinger has traveled extensively through out the United States. She has owned and run antique jewelry and vintage clothing boutiques in Virginia, Pennsylvania,Kentucky, and New Jersey. She currently owns one of the largest vintage clothing stores on the east coast,”Remember When” at 21 W. Broad St, Hazleton Pennsylvania. She has previously written Handbags, 20th century Neckties: Pre-1955, Compacts and Smoking Accessories, Popular Jewelry of the 60’s ,70’s, 80’s, and 50’s Popular Fashions for Men, Women, Boys & Girls. Her books provide guidance for the collector and a documented reference for the professional. “INSPIRED BY AMBER” WAS ORIGINALLY ESTABLISHED IN THE EARLY 1980S BY ROSEANN ETTINGER WITH THE HELP OF HER YOUNG DAUGHTER, AMBER LEE. DECIDING TO TAKE A SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT PATH FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS, ROSEANN ETTINGER BEGAN RESEARCHING PERIOD JEWELRY AND WRITING BOOKS ON ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES SPECIALIZING IN ANTIQUE JEWELRY AND VINTAGE CLOTHING. SHE ALSO ESTABLISHED “REMEMBER WHEN”, AN ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE IN HAZLETON, PENNSYLVANIA. AMBER GREW UP TO EARN A DEGREE IN FASHION DESIGN, MODEL AND ACT IN NEW YORK CITY. CURRENTLY, THE MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM HAS RE-FOCUSED AND ESTABLISHED THEIR JEWELRY LINE ONCE MORE, THIS TIME WITH A TOUCH OF THE PAST AND A FRESHNESS OF TODAY. “The journey of Roseann Ettinger is one of the greatest stories never told, going from a thought to a dream, then from a dream to making it a reality, authoring numerous books, developing one of the most brilliant vintage stores on the East Coast to being a great mom, she’s done alot in her life, and we are honored to be the first to tell her story on the UCW Radio Show, thank you Roseann, ” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show.
Author Jeffrey Kaye
Jeffrey Kaye is a journalist, writer, and producer. He is the author of Moving Millions: How Coyote Capitalism Fuels Global Immigration (Wiley, 2010). He is a special correspondent for the PBS News Hour, public television’s week nightly news program, and a contributor to World Report, the public affairs program of HDNet television. He reports and writes on immigration issues for various media outlets, and is a frequent public speaker and commentator on the subject. Kaye’s abiding interest in immigration is formed in part by his own history. Along with his parents and sister, he himself immigrated to the United States from England in 1963. His grandparents and great grandparents were immigrants to England from Poland. As a journalist he has covered immigration on four continents. And as a resident of El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles de Porciúncula (Los Angeles, California), he has seen the world arrive on his doorstep. Over the past years, assignments took him to Europe, Latin America, Asia, and North Africa, where he has covered such subjects as gun running, the global economic crisis, immigration, the drug trade, and the treatment of prisoners at Guantánamo Bay. Kaye began reporting for the News Hour in 1984, and covered a wide variety of stories, including urban politics, housing, health care, factory farming, weapons systems, government contracting, predatory lending, and space exploration. Between 1980 and 1984, Kaye was a reporter and senior producer at KCET-TV (PBS) in Los Angeles. Previously, he worked as a magazine writer, a freelance reporter for National Public Radio, a TV producer, and as a special correspondent for the Washington Post and other publications. Website: www.jeffreykaye.net
Fitness Model/Athlete Charla Cormier
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Fitness Model/Athlete Charla Cormier on the Show. Charla Cormier is not only a mother but she is a wife and top rated athlete and fitness model. She grew up in a small town called Marble Falls, Texas and she was the youngest of 3 children. When Charla was 5 years old her parents signed her up for gymnastics class; this was the beginning of an amazing journey for Charla as her love for fitness kicked into high gear. By the age 8 she was a competitive gymnast. In High School she was a varsity Cheerleader, Drill Team Dancer and played Volleyball, all the while still an active athlete. Charla admits that she did not grow up with that sleek toned body of an athlete. After graduating Marble Falls High School in 1992, she taught Gymnastics and attended Austin Community College. She quickly realized college was not for her and continued to follow her passion for fitness. Determined to finally figure out how to achieve that sleek toned body, she became a certified personal trainer and eventually went on to manage a GNC (General Nutrition Center) Store. She learned so much from both jobs, but still did not achieve the body of her dreams. In 2000 Charla got married to her wonderful and supportive husband Rob. The couple resided in Austin, TX at the time and like most couples decided to start a family; Charla and Rob wasted no time and she got pregnant right away. Unfortunately, during the 7th month of her pregnancy the doctors had to do an emergency C-section because their son had developed a heart anomaly; he passed away just 6 days later. This was a huge tragedy for Charla and Rob, one that takes a lot of inner strength and a strong marriage to get through. During those rough times, they made a joint decision to make a change, they needed a change, so they moved out to California. Her husband started a new job and they were finally getting back to a normal life. They decided to start that family we always dreamed about. They had their second son in 2003 and a little girl in 2004; both were very healthy babies. Charla says “Wow, becoming a Mommy certainly changes your body!! I had reached 170lbs and was very depressed and miserable! After seeing a picture of me standing next to my Mom and looking as big as a house, something snapped! I refused to be an out of shape mom and wife.” So Charla wanted to show everyone especially all the new mothers around the world that the over weight MOMMY MOLD could be broken! Charla, not afraid to jump in head first, decided to enter herself in an NPC figure competition to give her a goal to focus on. Now keep in mind this wasn’t years afterwards, Charla Cormier stepped on an NPC stage just nine months after having her daughter, she competed at a weight of 126 pounds and placed 6th out of 12 women that competed, this was the beginning of a new life for Charla. In her own words, “I WAS HOOKED! I was so proud of myself for finally reaching my fitness goal and accomplishing something I thought was impossible; especially after having a C-section! ” Ever since that fateful day when something snapped in Charla to compete in her first fitness competition, she hasn’t stopped, she went to the National Level, she became a certified personal trainer for Anytime Fitness ([email protected]), a fitness model/athlete for All American EFX (www.aaefx.com), She has graced the covers of a few magazine covers, she is one of the developers of the new eating plan called The Cave Man Plan (www.thecavemanplan.com), and on top of all of that she is sponsored by Eric Nolan’s Xtreme Martial Arts and Fitness Center (www.ericnolan.com), but most of all, and quoting from Charla once again, “I AM ONE HAPPY MOMMY.” Charla’s journey is an amazing one, she broke through adversity and not looking for it she found her purpose, as sometimes things happen in life for a reason. She has succeeded in reaching many of her goals because of the support and love of her family, friends, sponsors and her faith in the lord. She goes on to say “I am very fortunate and proud to be where I am today. My main goal though, is to be a good mother, wife and role model for her family. My passion is fitness and teaching others to MAKE A GOAL, NOT AN EXCUSE. I truly believe you can achieve any goal once you set your mind to it. The KEY is You must believe in yourself and put all excuses aside!” “Success is just a reach away , GO FOR IT—BELIEVE IN YOURSELF AND NEVER LOOK BACK– YOU CAN DO IT! ” continues Charla and she leaves us with this message: “Love life and stay fitness focused, Charla.” “I asked Charla if she would ever be open to being a guest celebrity on Dancing with the Stars due to her dancing background, and the answer was an astounding yes, her story is amazing and she is destined for great things in the future.” Stated Louis Velazquez , host of the UCW Radio Show www.thecavemanplan.com www.myspace.com/reimroc www.aaefx.com Charlas Official Blog: www.aaefx.com/cormier/blog
Model/Actress Angell Lee-Ann
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Model and Actress Angel Lee-Ann on the show, she is definitely one that you need to keep your eye on in the very near future. About Angel in Her Words. I believe in living your life now, to the full…i don’t want to get to a age where I’m too old, and looking back on my life with big regrets…and feeling like there is nothing you can now do about it…almost like life’s past you by,.. where you’re maybe in a job that you cant stand and have just accepted it, and carried on day to day….wishing you were somewhere else, living the life you had always wished for. The beginning of this year I was doing just that, I had recently got out of a very unhappy long relationship, which had held me back in fulfilling my dreams I once had before.I was running my own business in home security here in the UK for many years, it had been very successful, and my family still continues to work in this line of business today, but for me, finally being single, I decided to take up acting classes in the evenings after I closed my business for the day.I studied acting in film and TV, I loved this so much and decided this is what i wanted to pursue further, but it had become very difficult juggling both my business which i ran by myself and being able to go out to any potential castings etc…it would be impossible…So I had to put that on hold for a little while. In mid 2008 I went on a girlie holiday to L.A and was approached by a manager/agency there, they then signed me to a semi exclusive contract for at least a year…to join his books…a warning to people that I’ve learned along the way is unfortunately be careful who you sign with, be careful what spill “managers” etc will give you to maybe get you signed up etc. I’ve learnt the hard way, but least i know now…how he promised this and that., how he had investors involved with big budget films they were to be filming end of last yr and i was promised this part and that part in this film they’d be filming and all of that, I learned the hard way because it had wasted a lot of time for me. At that time I was stuck on my end not being able to go out to any other castings in case I was told he needed me to fly out in few weeks time for filming? So I ended the contract this year and took a big decision as my lease for my shop/business was coming up for renewal to either re-sign for a further 5 yrs and stick at the business i was good at “the safe option” or to get out, I chose to “get out” and take the chance, this leaving the security of a guaranteed income. I knew that I couldn’t run my own business and be able to travel or work away if needed…it was a gamble, but one i was willing to take. I signed up with a new manager in USA at World Entertainment Agency in late 2009, so it is all still very new to me, but wow how different this company is to the last I had been signed with. They are extremely professional and I have since had interest from Playboy USA. I had been approached from a music producer who has worked with groups like the Chemical Brothers to name one and he asked me to do vocals to one of his new tracks he had done, I’ve since finished that, and are in the very last stages of the video I’m in being filmed for it…I’m being cast in a UK film for cinema, filming starts in November. I have a photo shoots lined up in Miami at the end of October and many little projects that are all coming together…all very exciting! I’m feeling 2010 is going to be a great year for me, if it carries on the way its going =0}…and then my story will be of a happy one to tell , how not to sit back and let life pass you by, how only a few months back i was stuck in my 9-5 job day in day out same thing…looking out the window dreaming…wishing I was doing something else, wishing my life was some what different, to now all these different opportunities that are now coming my way, and I’m now free to be able to travel and take on any new jobs that are offered to me. “Angel went through a bumpy road but sometimes its better to have that negative stuff out early than to have it come later in her career, I believe that this experience will lead her to achieve greats things in not only her career but in her life, ” said Louis Velazquez host of The UCW Radio Show Websites: www.myspace.com/1angelll
Australian Author Suzanne Leal
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Australian author of “Border Street” Suzanne Leal on the show. Suzanne Leal was born in Brisbane, Australia. After studying French, German and law at the University of Sydney in Australia and the Universität Würzburg in Germany, Suzanne worked as a Sydney-based criminal lawyer before being appointed to the Refugee Review Tribunal, the Migration Review Tribunal and the Administrative Decisions Tribunal (NSW). She is a regular legal commentator on ABC radio 702 with James Valentine. She is also a facilitator and moderator at literary events and festivals. Border Street is Suzanne’s first novel. The story of an unlikely friendship between a young Australian woman, Kate, and her Czech-Jewish neighbors, Border Street was inspired by Suzanne’s friendship with the late Fred and Eva Perger. Border Street was commended in the 2007 Asher Literary Award. Suzanne lives in Sydney with her sons, Alex, Dominic and Xavier. Websites: www.suzanneleal.com
Hustler Model Crystal Rayne
Quick Q & A with Hustler Model Crystal Rayne Let’s start with the basics Crystal, why don’t you tell us where your story starts: Well firstly I was born and raised in Massachusetts, so I am a New England native. To be more specific I was born in Southbridge, MA and actually raised in Brimfield, MA. I grew up playing sports in elementary school all the way up to high school, I played Basketball from the time I was in the first grade and on I was only girl on a boys team all the way up till I hit 8th grade. It was the same with softball, I actually hit 13 homeruns every year in elementary school and tried hard to break 14 but unfortunately that did not happen. So is that where your young sports career ended? Not really, when I hit 9th grade I was the only 9th grader girl to make varsity on track & field and cross-country I was one of the top three runners that brought my team to states!!! Did you grow up in a big family? Yes, I grew up in a big family and was loved very much growing up, I think that’s what pushed me in sports since I was young. Ok now lets move forward to what people are really interested in, when did you begin entertaining? Well yeah you’re right, well that was growing up now down to business, I started entertaining when I was 16 and loved the attention part of it. I have now been featuring for 6 years and modeling for 5 years, I would not change one thing about it. I get to travel to so many states and meet so many people, I am so grateful for that. Can you tell us what some of your highlights have been so far? Hmmmm, let me tell you what I’ve done as I consider them all highlights in my career. I recently posed for “V2 Magazine” 2010, I was featured in “Hustler Magazine” February 2010 Issue, “Hustler Magazine” May 2010 issue, “Got Curves Magazine” 2010, “Xtreme Magazine” January 2010 and April 2010 and now for your magazine LOL!!! I carry many titles including Miss Exotic Virginia 2009, Pole Champion 2009, Hottest Buns 2009, Miss Nude Redhead World 2010, Best Costume 2009, XXX Star/ Jim South productions 2010 etc. I’m going to get personal for a moment as this is just a short Q & A session; can you tell us a little bit about your personal life? Sure, I have two wonderful kids and I would not change them for the world. I love them so much, they are Desiree who is 7 and Ethan who is 22 months I love you both so much!!!! So yes I am still featuring all over the USA doing Vegas style shows, talk shows and as well as radio interviews like with the ones I’ve done for Striptaculous.com, there are 3 interviews of mine there which can be listened to. Crystal, I know our time is short so I want to thank you for the short interview, and I want to wish you the best of luck in your career, we look forward to having you as a guest on the UCW Radio Show. Thank you too, I look forward to coming on the UCW Radio Show soon, until then I want to send a big MUAH out to my fans!!! To learn more about Crystal Rayne go to www.crystalrayne.com
Photographer Shawn Lee
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Photographer Shawn Lee on the show. Shawn Lee is the Owner and Lead Photographer at SHAWN LEE Studios, Photography editor at The Luxe Code Magazine, Co-Owner & Co-Founder of That’s Hot Media, The Official Photographer of “Jazz on the Grass”, one of the largest jazz festivals in Southeastern Michigan and The Official Photographer of the William Malcolm “Man of Style” Contest which gives prizes in excess of twenty five thousand dollars. Looking at Shawn’s photography, one first notices a depth about his work. Driven by a passion for capturing the moment, Shawn’s work has a very lively and engaging feel to it. Shawn’s eye in photography was developed as a Graphic Designer, which made the creative transition to photography very smooth. He has since honed his technical skills to include several professional certifications and worldwide travels. Shawn is a hard working photographer who treats his client’s body of work as though it were his own. Amongst being a graphic artist and a professional photographer, Shawn is a seasoned instructor and creative project director. He is extremely passionate about community, which is why he is Co-Director and Advisor to a program called “The Suit Project”, a ten week mentorship based program for young men that are 18-22 years of age. Shawn is also rolling out in September of 2009 his own community and school based venture called “Picture This”, a program where he inspires young people to consider Art & Creativity through the eyes of the Photographic lens in motivational seminars and rallies. You’ll often hear Shawn say “RUN THAT!”, which is his energetic term for making life happen and he approaches photography very much the same way. Shawn’s wealth of passion, creative background, and commitment to service show not only in his work, but in his professionalism on the job and his investment in community; able to perform at a very high level, he is ready to create imagery that can take you to an entirely new level. Websites: www.shawnleestudios.com
Pro Mod Drag Racer Dina Parise
Andrew and Dina Parise are a Husband and Wife Pro Mod Drag Racing Team.When the Helmets go on the wedding bands come off! With this team, Rivalry starts at home! http://pariseracing.com/
Actress/Author Patty McCall
PATTY McCall – Founder/Producer/Author / Actress she is the author of the book “Unmasking The Pain Within” which is based on her true story. Shortly after she formed a Non-Profit Organization founded in Oklahoma called “P.A.I.N. Foundation” against Domestic Violence. Patty received support in Oklahoma, Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida, Virginia and California. She promoted the book through a Book Signing Tour, becoming affiliated with Services for Domestic Violence/Shelters. Patty made guest appearances on various talk shows and radio stations . She is producing and writing the script for the the feature “Unmasking The Pain Within ,” which is in pre-production .Twice a year Patty is honored to present the “PAIN FOUNDATION AWARD” for the Best Domestic Violence Awareness Short Film , at the Bare Bones Film Festival in Oklahoma. She also produced for Emperor Frederick Von Seidl, a comedy/horror feature film called “West Ghost Studios”.She has produced ten short films . Most recent ,shot in Los Angeles, is the short “UNSEEN HANDS”, directed by Don Johns.There are plans to develop this project as well . This event will introduce upcoming projects and events.
Celebrity Booking Agent Mike Esterman
Mike Esterman is the CEO of celebrity booking agency Esterman Entertainment, based in Maryland, which specializes in appearance placements of music artists, TV and film celebrities, and magazine models at clubs, on TV show shows, product endorsements, and other various events. The entertainment industry bug first hit Mike at age 16 when he started as a dancer on Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” by submitting a tape from local Maryland dance show named “Shakedown,” in which he won a local club dance contest in order to show off his moves to the TV viewers. More dancing on various shows followed: “Dance Party USA” in Philadelphia, “Shakedown” in Baltimore, Md., “The Grind” in Los Angeles with Nia Peoples as the host and “Party Machine.” Mike Esterman has been rubbing elbows with names like Pamela Anderson, Garth Brooks, Jessica Simpson, Don King, Tiffany Amber Theisen, Paris Hilton, Carmen Electra, Tara Reid, and so many others. He has also worked on events and after parties for music artists like, Alicia Keys, Usher, Nelly, Beyonce, Fabolous, P. Diddy, Vince Neil, LL Cool J, Wyclef, Ashanti, Ja Rule, and many others. These appearances range from autograph signings, hosting contests or promoting their shows or movies to the public. There are approximately twelve various types of locations ready to take advantage of these special appearances. Some are all age, entertainment establishments, such as, Casinos, Colleges, speaking engagements and nightclubs plus other creative places are also used to create the perfect platform, depending on the celebrity guest. All appearances and performances accompany a fee and all accommodations are provided. Presently, Mike also hosts a celebrity segment on the CW TV Channel called, “Late Nite” with a Magazine-style format featuring, behind-the-scenes footage of celebrity guests when they are in the DC area along with area nightclub hot spots plus so much more to intrigue viewers and give upcoming spokesmodels a chance for added exposure. In addition to the TV projects in production, Mike acts as an project liaison for “Triple Platinum Entertainment”, a fairly new company based in Las Vegas. It’s founders who are widely recognized within the entertainment industry, feel that we can be successful in locating funding for major films ready for finization along with A-List actors already attached. Mike Esterman seeks to bring the dazzle of Hollywood a little closer to many all over the world with offer requests coming in for client’s everyday! “Mike is one of the good guys in the celebrity booking arena, leading the path with honesty and relationship building, helping his clients, providing solid talent for venues and giving the public the celebrities that they crave. So venue owners and bookers that are looking to align with someone of the highest integrity then you need not look further than Mike Esterman.” stated Louis Velazquez, Host of UCW Radio Websites: www.esterman.com , it is the user friendly way to book celebrities for all of your events worldwide. www.myspace.com/mikeesterman
International DJ Sensation – DJ Neekola
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have International Sensation DJ Neekola on the Show. Born in New York and educated in Virginia, Neekola currently resides in Washington DC where she works as a full time international DJ. Inspired by her parents musical talents, Neekola has been involved in music since childhood. The early years were spent in rock bands as a lead singer, keyboard player and songwriter. However, upon moving to Germany in 1997, Neekola was introduced to her soulmate, electronic dance music. She spent so much of her time dancing in the nightclubs within Europe. It was during this time she was inspired to pursue music production. After having a bit of trouble, she was advised by her mentors in the industry that she should first learn to DJ, and then her production skills would come naturally soon after. So she headed on out to NYC’s Scratch Academy, learned the basic skills, acquired her own turntable setup, and then her life changed forever….. “DJing has given me the ability to share my passion with people all over the world, whether we speak the same language or not, and it has helped me to inspire others as music has inspired me throughout my life” -Neekola. Neekola is not only one of Washington DC’s most recognizable names in the club scene, but she is now capturing the attention of audiences by performing worldwide in Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and Peru. In the United States, she has played all over the East Coast to include Miami for the Winter Music Conference, New York City, Virginia Beach and Baltimore Maryland. She has performed alongside some of her favorite artists such as Robbie Riviera, BT, Quivver, Menno De Jong, Serge Devant, DJ Rap and Steve Smooth just to name a few. She also works hard to give back to the community and donates a lot of her own time to help raise funds and awareness for charity, and is an advocate for living a healthy lifestyle. “Music is such a powerful tool. The best way to use this power is to promote good messages, such as having fun, dancing, and positive attitude with the best beats and lyrics I can find as well as create myself. This positivity, enthusiasm, and good spirit comes from within and is recognized by those on the dance floor, and in turn I am rewarded by happy faces, pumping fists and dancing feet.” -Neekola. Neekola is currently working very hard on releasing her first original electronic album, “All of You”, dedicated to all of the people in her life that have inspired and helped her become the person, and the artist she is today. “This is one of those people that you know will rise to the top due to not only their abilities but how they carry themselves, her humbleness and appreciation beyond her exceptional skill is what separates her from the rest,” said Louis Velazquez, UCW Radio Show Host Websites www.djneekola.com www.myspace.com/neekoladj
The Hip Event – Maria Cucciniello
Maria Cucciniello is founder and CEO of The Hip Event, a full-service public relations, event planning, and lifestyle marketing agency specializing in fashion and beauty; hospitality, dining, and nightlife; entertainment and media. The Hip Event creates market driven integrated marketing campaigns that blend publicity promotions and product placement strategies to target markets in both traditional and non-traditional ways through grassroots efforts, crafting strategic partnerships, aligning clients with celebrities and facilitating community relations. Maria graduated top of her class earning a degree in Fashion Marketing from The Art Institute of Philadelphia in 1999, where her love of all things fashion and the fast-paced world of PR were fueled by several internships including Philadelphia Style Magazine, Strawbridge’s and Neiman Marcus. During this time Maria was also actively involved as a junior member of The Fashion Group International, INC. After graduation, Maria began work as the Assistant to the Director of Special Events and Public Relations at Strawbridge’s before pursuing a career as a freelance public relations professional. She quickly found her niche in Philadelphia, gaining a reputation as go-to girl for nightclub promotions and publicity. During this time, she honed her skills in special events management and planning spearheading fashion show productions, product launches, restaurant and nightclub openings as well as revitalizing established venues. Maria successfully executed countless grassroots marketing campaigns gaining media exposure for an array of clients. Soon thereafter, Maria accepted a position at Hugo Boss, Fashion Works Incorporated as the PR and Marketing Manager overseeing seven locations in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania where she concentrated on the fashion industry. Prior to founding The Hip Event, Maria served as the Public Relations Manager for Neiman Marcus in Short Hills for more than four years. Under her direction, the store engaged in countless non-profit, community and charitable organizations such as The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, North Jersey Affiliate and The New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Maria has worked with key editors and producers in top level media and was features on “Extra” on two different occasions for her expertise in beauty, fashion, and jewelry, as well as her keen sense of style. Other media outlets include, TLC’s “What Not To Wear”, The Wall Street Journal, and People EN ESPANOL. More About The Hip Event The Hip Event is a full-service public relations and lifestyle marketing business located in beautiful Montclair, New Jersey. Recognized for outstanding service and a true partnership approach with every engagement, the Hip Event’s client focused public relations services include media relations and industry specific media outreach; press release composition and distribution; marketing campaign design and outreach; Web site design and development; special event planning and sponsorship outreach. Our goal is to set each and every client above the rest, and in the process help them grow. How can we help you grow? Contact us today. Located in Montclair, New Jersey, The Hip Event is a full service boutique agency specializing in public relations, lifestyle marketing and special events catering to upscale industry clients with in the fashion and beauty; hospitality, dining and nightlife; as well as the entertainment and media industries. The Hip Event connects brands with their desired media for optimal exposure by mixing our own creative style with traditional public relations (PR). Our dedicated team focuses on putting nationwide clients in front of key editors and producers from top media outlets to reach target audiences. Our customized marketing campaigns and brand development programs deliver strategic messages to the audiences that matter most. We create individualized programs that play an integral role in marketing to drive sales through lasting customer relationships. The Hip Event creates integrated marketing campaigns that blend publicity, promotions and product placement strategies to target markets in both traditional and non-traditional ways through grassroots efforts, crafting strategic partnership, aligning clients with celebrities and facilitating community relations. Our unique approach can incorporate community outreach programs aligning clients with the communities they serve in-turn strengthening sales, image, and customer loyalty generating a positive word of mouth. From concept to completion, The Hip Event handles all aspects of event management including production and publicity in order to meet your event goals. Our services incorporate but are not limited to defining objectives, selecting venues, pre-production, vendor relations, staffing requirements and permits. After successfully orchestrating countless fashion show productions, product launches as well as non-profit, community and charity events, we pride ourselves on offering every client the personal attention only a boutique firm can provide. We invite you to talk to your clients, visit our office in Montclair, New Jersey, or contact us today. Websites: www.thehipevent.com
Director Francis Williams
Francis Williams is a visionary. A natural born artist, Williams has been drawing and creating amazing illustrations since childhood. He is fascinated by the science fiction and fantasy genre – with an instinct for subverting reality through image. Francis holds a BA (Hons.) in Digital and Lens Media from the University of Hertfordshire where he graduated in 2006. He also serves as a director for privately held independent production studio, Wrong World Films — also based in his hometown in Hertfordshire. Wrong World Films produces film and television content for broadcast and corporate media – however – it was Francis’ independently made music video “5 Minutes Too Fast” (2006) – which got the attention of media executives, culminating in talks and proposals at AEC. Company Statement Asia Eumero Capital EU has recently signed prolific writing team Phil & Francis Williams to UK publishing imprint Original Myth Classics. The brothers’ talents have been tracked since summer 2007 when they submitted various treatments for independent motion pictures that could be developed from character centric plots. Two years on, AEC is proud to welcome the writing team to the Original Myth Classics label – a development and entertainment publishing house were they will be given the creative freedom essential to realize the commercial potential of their films and productions. Phil & Francis Williams will join a dedicated and talented team of veteran executives from OM Classics — which includes film and television producers from associated labels and affiliate film studios in the United Kingdom and North America. Working with the team will be multi-hyphenate producer – Saint Vernae – who will administer and executive produce the first Williams Bros film “Revenge of the Lout”. Websites: www.wrongworldfilms.com www.originalmyth.com
TV/Film Producer and True Inspiration David Lyons
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have TV/Film Producer David Lyons on the Show. David Lyons is one of the most inspirational stories that we had the honor of telling on the UCW Radio Show, his outlook on life is amazing, despite him having a daily battle with MS he still forges forward with his desire to live and accomplish great thing sin life. Although he has inspired many his main goal is to show his three children the path to true fulfillment in their lives and to continue reaching for the moon despite adversity. The David Lyons story is one that we urge our listeners to not only listen to but to learn from it. Lyons , despite having a disease that could literally diasble a person, he made a choice to compete as a bodybuilder without the use of MS drugs. Its an amazing journey that only David Lyons can tell. More About David Lyons: Since 2002 LYONS Entertainment has been creating, developing and producing original programming for television and film. LYONS Entertainment President and Executive Producer, David Lyons has won over 25 international awards and has partnered with some of entertainment’s top executives and producers. In addition to creating and producing its own original properties, LYONS Entertainment collaborates with other talented creators and producers to bring their television show or film concept to market. LYONS Entertainment credits include syndicated television series Hog Heaven, currently in its fourth season, airing on Untamed Sports TV (www.untamedsportstv.com); Street Games and Rack which have been green lit by FOX Sports Network; and Creepers which has won 30 international awards and was screened at the Cannes Short Film Festival in Cannes, France. Creepers is currently under contract for worldwide distribution through Engine 15 Media Group. “David Lyons is a true inspiration, his story is amazing, his journey is worthy of accolades, if this doesn’t teach us that we can achieve anything in life despite the adversities in front of us then nothing will, I was honored to be able to conduct his interview,” said Louis Velazquez, Host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.theultimatebodytvshow.com www.lyonsentertainment.net www.supercreepers.com www.themsbodybuildingchallenge.com
Director Byron Conrad Erwin
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have the director of the new theatrical release “Lynch Mob” Byron Erwin on the show. Byron Erwin began his film career as a teenager, writing and shooting films in super eight millimeter. He completed his first feature length production while studying film at Virginia Commonwealth University. During film school he worked as a negative cutter for National Geographic Television, National Geographic Specials, ABC/KANE Productions, Discovery Channel and many independent and feature filmmakers. He has written and directed short films, and one feature before becoming the senior director at a television commercial production facility. He is most proud of my animated short film “In those Days…” which took seven years to produce since every frame was hand drawn with no computer assistance. Erwin is also an accomplished musician and artist and score most of his projects. The feature horror film LYNCH MOB, which Erwin directed, opens Sept 18th, 2009 in select Carmike Theaters theatres. Websites: www.lynchmobmovie.com http://www.byronerwin.com/ http://www.myspace.com/byronerwin
Pro Bodybuilder and True Inspiration Jack London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have Pro Bodybuilder Jack London on the Show. It all Started when Jack was 12 yeas old. he was going into the 7thgrade and was extremely overweight. He was at the jersey shore and went to his dad and asked him to buy him a gym membership- According to Jack London he was was ready to be an Animal!!! He was lucky and trained at a place called Atilis Gym, little did young Jack know, that he was training with the likes of Joe Meeko and Jeff king and Ron Tueful. These were the granddaddies of bodybuilding at the time. As time went on, he grew…and grew, and grew…until he was bench pressing 400lbs at age 15…he was playing both offense and defense in football and was pretty much all world!! Jack’s self esteem had grown incredible since then, in the beginning he was just another fat kid, trying to get a girlfriend. Then his parents told me him that he was going to an exclusive high school called the William Penn Charter school- there He grew to excel in academics as well as athletics. Jack’s football career started to look like a reality. He was actually running a 4.8 40 yard dash and was weighing 280lbs as a senior. he was also, lifting heavy…800 squat/600 bench…all in high school!!!! But during his senior year in High School tragedy struck and he blew out his shoulder, According to physicians at the time he was getting too strong for his own good and when Jack would hit people he actually was tearing his own joints up. he dislocated his right shoulder 6 times and his left 4 times, For Jack his dreams of Professional Football came to an abrupt end. Shortly after that he was then approached by Lincoln Gottschalk who at the time was the Power lifting coach at Temple University and who at the time were the National Champions….NCAA. He went on to be not only a Teen and Collegiate National champion, but also NCAA All American 3 years in a row. At some point, Jack reached the highest point in power lifting, hitting an unrecorded 1010 lbs in the squat and 662 bench (with no shirt). He got bored, as Jack is a mover and shaker , so he decided to drop weight. In one year he went from 340lbs to 190lbs…and all of a sudden, He found a new calling as he began to look like a bodybuilder with a small waist and broad shoulders. Jack recalled this gorgeous girl telling him “you know, you should be a bodybuilder, you look like those guys in the magazines” and so, well thats all that Jack needed to hear and he was off to the races. He competed in the Mr. Northeast Philadelphia, and took it all the way to the World Championships, winning bronze in that as well as winning titles like the Mr. North America, Mr. East Coast and Mr. International…..SO the obvious next step is a trip to California in 1992: He went to California, for a week vacation, and never returned. He met Ed Connors who, at the time, was one of the three owners of Gold’s gym enterprises, he told me that I had what it took, we struck a deal- and off he went….Jack spent the next three years competing and traveling- living the dream!!!! Jack retired in 1998 when he got married, but then reemerged in 2004, requalifying and going all the way to the Night of Champions in NYC in 2006. Jack London’s story is so inspirational that you need to hear it from the horses mouth to understand his journey and continued journey. Websites : Jack London | Facebook
Model/Actress Veronika London
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have model/actress Veronika London on the show. Striking in raven black hair, Veronika London is quickly establishing her name in Hollywood North aka Canada. At 22, London’s raw talent, assets and ambition have catapulted her to the fast-track. Coming off a recent television appearance on the provocative HBO series Lingerie, London rode the “exposure” to land features in Maxim and UMM magazines. She is set to appear in the second season of the SHOWTIME’s Body Language series after wrapping the “Mvnerva” shoot, where she plays a gorgeous and unlikely assassin. The starlet is also scheduled to play the lead in the upcoming independent feature film, How to cook like a Porn star. These films compliment her seventh music video appearance in as many months. Finally, a busy year culminates in London’s portrayal of the heroine in Paul Robert’s Burning Amber. Promising to be an instant hit, the Jeremy Shell produced project is receiving noteworthy attention from industry insiders and may be London’s first significant hit. Mexican “Femme Fatale” Veronika uses her theatre training, martial arts background and raw sensuality to sell herself as product model for the planet’s first bamboo designer label “JUZD”. She is known as the edgy trendsetter “Glam Rock Babe” for Queen West Magazine where she reports the hottest trends to hit the street. Catch her next possibly hosting, doing charity work, or making an appearance in Toronto in this October’s “Las Vegas Fashion Show” hosted by Playful Chick Parties to support the fight against breast cancer. Websites: www.veronikalondon.com http://www.myspace.com/veronika.london
Starlink Productions Katrina Berg Sussmeier
StarLink Productions: Give us your budget and desired genre(s) and we will get you a custom list of talent; names you can afford and the names you’d like to hear. If someone you were really hoping to see isn’t on that list, ask, and we’ll do a specific fee check. Once you’ve made up a wish list from your custom list, we will call and get talents’ availabilities and do fee negotiations. StarLink does every kind of event from autograph/ meet and greets to major concerts and festivals. We have event planning guides and corporate underwriting help free on our website. We handle everything from offers and negotiations right to packing up the acts and getting them back on the road after your show. There is nothing we haven’t done to make things easy and happy for everyone, up to and including last minute laundry emergencies for talent! Think of a concert as something akin to a wedding, but with 30 or more brides and 10 times more details. We handle everything! Katrina Berg Sussmeier has been producing concerts since 1991, and worked with wonderful and impressive people such as Tony Bennett, James Earl Jones, Stevie Wonder, Brian McKnight, Gregory Hines, Beverly Sills and countless others, and such wonderful events as the United Negro College Fund, right down to hospital fundraisers and fantasy figure conventions. We are extremely proud of the fundraising work we’ve done. Katrina calls herself a “professional middle child” in that she strives to make everyone happy— the talent buyer and the talent and staff as well. 99% of the time this lofty goal is accomplished! Tour managers repeatedly tell her dates with StarLink are “cakewalks” or likewise glitch free and happy. Just in May of 2009 a stage manager told her it was a privilege to work with someone who actually cared how the show went! Similarly, clients who have worked with StarLink before will always come back and we realize repeat business is where it’s at for us! “Your Link To The Stars” Websites: http://www.starlinkproductions.com
Martial Artist/Fighting Stunts Coordinator Grandmaster Yi
The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have world renowned martial arts grandmaster, Grandmaster Yi on the show. Grandmaster Wonik Yi is the founder of the World Tukong Moosul Federation and holds a 9th degree black belt, the highest designation in the Martial Arts. Master Yi also holds a doctorate degree in Education. Master Yi has devoted his entire life to the study of the Martial Arts, and he has brought his generations of knowledge to Austin, Texas in order pass that knowledge on in the USA. Grandmaster Yi spent his formative years learning Buddhism and the Martial Arts at the Dae Yeon Sa Temple in South Korea. He then went into the Korean Special Forces. In 1979, he competed in the World Martial Arts tournament and became World Champion. At this point, the Korean goverment asked him to develop a more modern, powerful, and effective fighting art. Because this style is so technically efficient the military was able to change from their present style (Tae Kwon Do) of Martial Arts to Master Yi’s style-“Tukong Moosul.” There are now over 300,000 soldiers training each year in Tukong Martial Arts. While Grandmaster Wonik Yi entered the Dae Yeon Sa Temple at the age of five in 1964, his roots to the temple can be traced back many generations. Master Kiwan Yi is the great grandfather of Grandmaster Wonik Yi. He was the teacher of Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa before he went into the temple. Master Kiwan Yi also taught his son Master Jayoung Yi who was the grandfather of Grandmaster Wonik Yi. Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa and Master Jayoung Yi were friends. When Master Eun Kwang Bup Sa had gone to the temple, Master Jayoung Yi asked him to take Grandmaster Wonik Yi into the temple for training. Master Kiwan Yi won the World Judo Championship in Japan when Korea was occupied by Japan. He was one of the greatest Judo masters at that time. He was also the last Shogun for the Korean Emperor. He later became the Korean State Governor and continued to teach Judo to Koreans. Grandmaster Yi’s grandfather, Jayoung Yi, was also a Judo Master who opened the first Yun Moo Kwan Judo School in Korea. He was also Mayor of Young Wol City in Korea. This is the heritage of Grandmaster Wonik Yi and it explains where his abilities and talents came from, as well as how tradition is carried on from one generation to the next generation. The origin of the Dae Yeon Sa Temple can be traced to AD 1200 years. The first original Temple was Dae Yeon Am, meaning “Great Achievement Place”. It was located in North Korea, and founded by Master Ji Suk along with two other masters. During this time the masters practiced Buddhism without the Martial Arts. It was only after Master Song Jae and Master Bup Kwang came to the temple that the practice of Martial Arts began around AD 1269. Several hundred years later, the temple moved to South Korea (1692) and the name changed from Dae Yeon Am to Dae Yeon Sa (“Great Achievement Temple”). At that time, three masters from China joined and continued to develop the Martial Arts. That is why the origin of the Tukong Moosul system is both a hard and soft style, a blending of Chinese and Korean techniques. In 1965, Grandmaster Wonik Yi went to the temple and began training in Buddhism and the Martial Arts. In Korea there are two types of Buddhist temples. One is similar to a church of missionary work and is open to all people. The other is solely for individuals who wish to seek self-enlightment. These temples are ones of sanctuary and privacy, and are not open for public visitation. A few of the temples in Korea choose the later type. The Dae Yeon Sa Temple is a very traditional temple that teaches Buddhism and Martial Arts. This is the tradition that is taught to the students of Tukong Moosul today. Eun Kwang Bup Sa was born in 1895 and passed away in 1996 at the age of 101 years. He was headmaster of Dae Yeon Sa Temple from 1955 until his passing. Eun Kwang Bup Sa was Master Yi’s Grandmaster and greatest mentor influencing, molding, and guiding Master Yi for the rest of his life. Eun Kwang Bup Sa taught “Jeong Shin Il Do, Ha Sa Bul Sung”. Translated, this means that when one summons one’s mind, heart (body), and spirit in one direction together, nothing is impossible and you can accomplish anything that you desire. Grandmaster Wonik Yi’s goal, in honor of headmaster Eun Kwang Bup Sa, is to offer and pass forward to his students all of the knowledge, wisdom and philosophy that he has acquired through his years of training. The students that are willing to listen and work hard will find direction in their life; they will become humble beings, with a great understanding of self-accomplishment, self-esteem, and an understanding of the importance of life. HISTORY Grandmaster Wonik Yi entered Dae-Yeon temple at the age of five in 1964. He lived at the temple until the age of nineteen and trained in traditional Moosul (Martial Arts) until he joined the South Korean Special Forces to do his duty for his country. While he was in the special forces, his commander, General Chang, and the Korean Government noticed his prominence in Martial Arts and asked him to devise a more modern, powerful, and effective fighting martial arts for the South Korea Special Forces and the military version of Tukong Martial Arts was born in February of 1978. In the beginning, Tukong Moosul was called Tukjun Moosul. In 1980, Korean Military 26th division became Tukong Division and most other divisions started creating the Tukong Battalion. There are now over a few hundred thousand South Korean military and reserve soldiers training each year in the military version of Tukong Martial Arts. Grandmaster Wonik Yi came to America
Money Never Sleeps Radio
Hollywood, Movies, Music, AI and Private Credit Markets
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez we put the spotlight on Netflix, AI and the impact that it will have on Hollywood, Movies and Music. We also go over the Private Credit markets and where they are headed. https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-12_MNS_03122026.mp3 The post Hollywood, Movies, Music, AI and Private Credit Markets first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Geopolitics, Derivatives, Energy Markets and Tokenized Commodities
In this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez we put a spotlight on Geopolitics, Derivatives and the Energy Markets how Russia, China and Europe fit into this picture. We also go over Tokenized Commodities and how high fidelity data is key to prevent fraud and attract institutional adoption https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-11_MNS_03112026_full.mp3 The post Geopolitics, Derivatives, Energy Markets and Tokenized Commodities first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Blockchain, Tokenizaion, Nasdaq, CME, NYSE, SEC, CFTC
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, we put a focus on Blockchain and Tokenization, and how the Nasdaq, CME, NYSE are exploring tokenization stocks and commodity derivatives while the SEC and CFTC are looking for high fidelity data framework https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-11_MNS_03112026.mp3 The post Blockchain, Tokenizaion, Nasdaq, CME, NYSE, SEC, CFTC first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Nasdaq, NYSE American, Blockchain, Reverse Stock Splits, Pecu Novus
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez the focus is put on the Nasdaq and NYSE American cracking down on repeat offenders who use reverse stock splits to stay listed meanwhile hurting shareholder value along the way. Also we talk about Blockchain interoperability and the Pecu Novus blockchain and latest ERC-20 […] https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-10_MNS_03102026.mp3 The post Nasdaq, NYSE American, Blockchain, Reverse Stock Splits, Pecu Novus first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Volatility in Oil Markets, Iran, Russia, USA, UK and Europe
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez we focus on the volatility in oil markets and the overall impact and how Iran, Russia, USA, UK and Europe fit into this equation https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-09_MNS_03092026.mp3 The post Volatility in Oil Markets, Iran, Russia, USA, UK and Europe first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Traditional Markets and Tokenization, NYSE, Nasdaq, CME
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez we put a focus on Traditional Markets Tokenization and how the NYSE, Nasdaq and CME will shift how markets operate. How centralized and decentralized exchanges will benefit from the infrastructure that is built and ready for the growth. https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-06_MNS_03062026.mp3 The post Traditional Markets and Tokenization, NYSE, Nasdaq, CME first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Private Credit Markets, Pecu Novus Blockchain, Wall Street
Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez is focusing on the Private Credit Markets on this episode and how the financial infrastructure layer on the Pecu Novus Blockchain could be a value to institutional players in the space https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-05_MNS_03052026.mp3 The post Private Credit Markets, Pecu Novus Blockchain, Wall Street first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Nanocap and Microcap Companies +Digital Asset Treasuries
On this espisode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, we are focused on the Nanocap and Microcap market where companies are adopting Digital Asset Treasury strategies and are either being proactive or reactive, and how that is damaging shareholder value especially when Toxic Debt is involved https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-04_MNS_03042026.mp3 The post Nanocap and Microcap Companies +Digital Asset Treasuries first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Private Credit Markets Missing Transparency
Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez focuses on the topic of Private Credit Markets Missing Transparency and how blockchain technology can help solve this issue https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-03-01_MNS_03012026.mp3 The post Private Credit Markets Missing Transparency first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Nasdaq Delistings, Nanocap and Microcap Companies, Digital Asset Treasuries
On this episode of Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, we focus on Nasdaq Delistings, the new rules, Nanocap and Microcap Companies facing difficult times, Digital Asset Treasuries & Digital Credit Note tokens and their role in increasing shareholder value https://www.moneyneversleepsradio.com/podcast/media/2026-02-27_MNS_02272026.mp3 The post Nasdaq Delistings, Nanocap and Microcap Companies, Digital Asset Treasuries first appeared on The UCW Newswire : Financial, Business and Tech News.
Scams and Fraud, Mining, Gold, Diamonds, Crypto and more
Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, the topic is Scams and Fraud, Mining, Gold, Diamonds, Crypto and more. We jumped into the various scams out there that investors should be aware of to protect themselves.
Tokenization The Future of Financial Markets
Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, Topic is Tokenization The Future of Financial Markets
Nasdaq Delisiting Microcaps, Digital Asset Treasuries
Money Never Sleeps Radio with Louis Velazquez, Nasdaq Delisiting Microcaps, Digital Asset Treasuries
Reality Show Star/Casting Agent Erika Landin
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_erikalandin_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Erika Michelle Landin is best known to the masses for her appearance on two seasons of the reality TV show Big Brother, placing fourth in Big Brother 4 in 2003 and placing second in Big Brother: All-Stars in 2006. After Big Brother 4, along with other reality show participants, she appeared in the movie The Scorned, which was aired on the E! TV channel and distributed on DVD. Landin played Sandra in the horror movie, about a group of young adults coming upon a house possibly inhabited by a (thought to be) dead woman. Previously, in 1998, Landin had a minor appearance in the film Dance with Me as a dancer. Landin has also appeared in numerous commercials, and has been on the cover of “Femme Fatales” magazine. Landin is now involved in reality show casting with the firm the Casting Duo, she has casted such reality based show as Survivor 12-16, The Amazing Race 9-21 just recently cast the next Bachelor (Matt Grant) and has worked on shows such as MasterChef, Millionaire Matchmaker, Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, The Fashion Show and The Cougar. “Erika is a definite example of someone that took an opportunity that was put in her lap and saw through the facade to produce a true career opportunity and she is taking her reality show experience and putting it to good use by casting awesome people for some of the highest ranking reality shows on television today, she is a success in every way,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.castingduo.com To apply to be casted for her latest projects see below
Actor, Director & Krav Maga Specialist AJ Draven
A.J. Draven, is the recent winner of the Breakout Action Star Award for his leading role in Showtime’s, ‘Special Ops’ at the Action-On Film Festival. While proficient in various martial arts (Muay Thai Kick Boxing, MMA, and Eskrima) A.J. has risen to the top of one of the most successful self defense and fighting organizations in the United States, Krav Maga Worldwide, where he holds a 3rd degree Black Belt and started the official Krav Maga youth program (KM-X), which is now in over 400 martial arts schools across the world. An expert in both street and military combat tactics, A.J. has trained both Civilians and Law Enforcement Personnel, ranging from LAPD, Beverly Hills SWAT, Army, Air Force, Secret Service, FBI, private security, and various special assignment Anti-Terrorist units. He has now coordinated and choreographed the martial arts in 4 feature films, and has trained and choreographed actors for various television shows including ABC’s ‘Alias’, ‘Being Human,’ ‘Raising Hope’, and ‘The League’, as well as performing stunts and motion capture for popular video game titles such as HALO 4. As an Actor, A.J. has now played the lead role in 3 feature films, and has multiple starring vehicles in various stages of development. Prior to his award winning performance in ‘Special Ops’ (Showtime), A.J. had played the lead role in ‘The Thirst, Blood Wars,’ which currently airs on the Syfy Channel and the Chiller Network. He also has one of the leads in the feature film Absolute Fear, which is released in November 2012. Websites: www.enterthedraven.com www.twitter.com/JohnnyBadAss
Comedian/Actress/Writer Rebecca Corry
Rebecca has shot pilots for CBS, FOX, ESPN, GSN, OXYGEN and was a guest on LOGOS The Gossip Queens and was the new face of 4 international HERTZ spot playing the GAS alongside Owen Wilson as the voice. Rebecca says she understood funny, “when I came out of my mother’s womb thinking… what is this? Some kind of joke?” She was born and raised in the Seattle suburb of Kent, Washington…or as she likes to call it, “the El Camino-driving, hot dog water loving, one-toothed pregnant teen capital of the world.” Rebecca lived in Chicago for 9 years, where she studied writing, acting and improvisation at The Second City, Annoyance and Center Theater. After an 11-month run in the Chicago production of Tony and Tina’s Wedding as the pregnant maid of honor, Corry moved to Los Angeles. Immediately following her arrival she appeared at the HBO workspace in her first one-woman show, “Have You Ever Been Called a Dwarf?”, hosted a pilot for the Oxygen Network and was chosen to perform as a “New Face” at the Montreal Comedy Festival. Shortly after that, she landed a memorable role as Paul Giamatti’s receptionist, Astrid Barker, in the feature film “BIG FAT LIAR.” She then guest-starred on CBS’s “Yes, Dear” and was in a national commercial campaign for Gallo wine. Between performing at clubs like The Improv, The Ice House, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and many more, Rebecca hosted the second season of “Mix It Up.” The interior design show created and executive produced by Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette. She went on to guest star on “The King of Queens,” “The Bernie Mac Show,” “The Wayne Brady Show,” NBC’s “Late Friday,” “Comics Unleashed,” E’s 101 series,” Comedy Central’s Premium Blend” and Rules Of Engagement. Her second one woman show “REBECCA CORRY WITH BALLS” was the LA Weekly’s “Comedy Pick of the Week.” Rebecca beat out thousands to become a finalist on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing 4” and currently headlines at universities and clubs around the country. Rebecca’s 1/2 hour COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS special can be seen on Comedy Central and her first one hour special Thanks, God, is available now on DVD! Currently, Rebecca is commenting on VH1’s TOP 100 SEXY SINGERS. Rebecca’s true passions are comedy and animal rescue and she travels the country with her beautiful rescued Pitbull named Angel. If you see them in your town or on your plane…be sure to say hello! “Rebecca is not only a true entertainer but she uses that star power to do good in the world, her heart is as big as her future and thats pretty big, its always good to know that one person has the ability to invoke some change for the better in the world, this is something that this comedian/actress strives to do and I commend her for it” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rebeccacorry.com www.twitter.com/therebeccacorry http://www.youtube.com/user/518rebecca Check out 2 Manly Ladies at: www.swirlaroo.com
Travel Channel’s Food Wars Host Camille Ford
Camille is presently the host of Design Wars on HGTV, The Movie Show for In Demand, Food Wars and Best Places I’ve Ever Been on Travel Channel. Aside from being a TV personality, she is an Ambassador for Lululemon, Adventure Guide, advocate for human rights, and owner of Sassy Pole Girls (featured on MTV & TLC). She is also ranked in the Top 100 Sexiest female celebrities for 2011 and 2012 by Smartasses.net She is an award-winning producer and performer for various radio programs, theater, webisodes, standup comedy, commercials, and independent films. Receiving multiple Innovative Theatre Award nominations. She was recognized in Time Out Magazine for most promising actor and was listed in NY Magazine’s “Top Picks”. She has also worked with notable chefs, personalities, and athletes. Her passion for is for life, food, and learning is contagious. She has been mentioned in a multitude of websites, articles, and books. Within 2 months of her first show being on air she had 30,000+ followers on Facebook. Her goal: “Inspire people to get hungry for life! Mentally and physically challenging others is my greatest pleasure. Whether it’s on a plate, in a classroom, or up a mountain; humor, knowledge, and compassion are vital for building successful communities and individuals”. Some favorite activities and favorite places: Spelunking (Honduras), Scaling glaciers (Iceland), Moose hunting (Canada), Backpacking (Hawaii), Motorcycle riding (Egypt), Kayaking (Jordan River), Rock climbing (Zion canyon), Sailing (Croatia), Cattle wrangling (Arizona), Women’s rugby, Competitive soccer, Beach volleyball, trail running, backcountry skiing, skydiving, DWS, scuba… you get the idea. “Cammie is such a dynamite person, her view on life is something that everyone can learn from, live life to the fullest. Her future just continues to get brighter and brighter, from TV to off Broadway to the bookshelves and your local video store, you’re going to hear a lot about Camille Ford in the months and years to come , she’s what others should look to when they want to be inspired”, stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.camillefordofficialsite.com www.twitter.com/camiford http://www.sassypolegirls.com/
Host and Actress Pili Montilla
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_pilimontilla_interviewucw.mp3 Without a doubt, Pili Montilla is the new latina. She represents biculturalism & bilingualism in a smart, approachable, energetic way. Her strengths include her interviewing skills, power to entertain in front of a live audience, unique personality and her music, fashion and entertainment knowledge. These strengths have led her to interview the biggest music and movie artists in the world. Actress and host, Pili has incredible presence and a charming personality. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico Pili has shown a great interest in the arts from a very early age. With a B.A. in Dramatic Arts from Boston College and performing art studies from Oxford University, University of London, M& M Studios in Mexico City, Cay Michael Patten Studios in New York City and Puerto Rico, Pili has the discipline, the personality and most importantly the desire to rise to the top. For over two years Pili was the host of LATV’s entertainment show, En la Zona. Pili was also the host of LATV’s famous show LATV En Concierto where she interviewed an invited artist (Julieta Venegas, Cristian Castro, Luis Fonsi, are a few examples) for a half hour in front of a live audience. Pili has had the chance to travel and cover important events such as Festival de la Calle 8 in Miami, Los Premios Billboard, Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) and the Latin Grammys. She also covers red carpets and junkets for important films like ‘Valentine’s Day’ (Ashton Kutcher), ‘Edge of Darkness’ (Mel Gibson) & ‘The Blind Side’ (Sandra Bullock), among many other films and artists. Pili helped create www.sonidolounge.com where she hosted and produced this half hour broadband music show. Before moving to Los Angeles, Pili was seen daily as the main VJ for MTV PR for two years. It was here where she hosted various segments and programs: Fashion & Beauty Tips, MTV PR News, Top Ten Countdown, interviews, voiceovers and the movie segment Flick’d. Pili was responsible for the research, writing and memorizing the content of these segments. She was also called upon to host different specials, such as MTV 2’s $2 Bill Concert in the Bronx, New York, MTV PR’s My Barrio and the Green Carpet at Los Premios MTV in Mexico City. Her ability to make artists and celebrities feel comfortable has earned her the opportunity to interview some of the hottest Latin and international artists including Ricky Martin, Gwen Steffani, Daddy Yankee, Hillary Duff, Calle 13, Shakira and Nelly Furtado among others. Formally trained as a dancer and actress, Pili has appeared in numerous entertainment venues. Some of her projects have included a recurring role as the villain Nancy in the soap opera Duena y Senora and Telemundo‘s Decisiones. She has also participated in various theater productions as well as musicals. She received great critic reviews for her performance as Judy in the musical A Chorus Line. Her role as Isabel on the soap Don Amor for Canal 13-Chile caused great commotion and quickly grabbed the attention of the press. Pili is also a radio personality. In fact she is the only female voice of one of Puerto Rico’s most popular radio station, Toca de To 102.5 where she has been hosting the ’20 Online’ radio show for four years. Her presence has raised the show’s ratings making it #1 in it’s category. Currently, Pili works for the new Direct TV channel ‘Video Exitos’ where she host their daily show ‘Top DS’ and gets to interview the biggest names in Latin music. She is also the Hollywood correspondent for VMe TV’s movie show, ‘En Pantalla.’ Her fame has extended to Honduras where she is the spokesperson for the #1 local beer, SAB Miller’s Barena. Her relationship with the brand extends to hosting their biggest events, interviewing and filming segments and commercials for the brand. This experience lead her to work for E! Latino and their show ‘It’s Hot!’ Her experience as an entertainment reporter and actor has helped her expand her brand to Mexico where she was approached by the editor of the fastest growing newspaper in the world, ‘Publimetro’ to write a weekly column titled ‘Pili. . .desde Hollywood’. It has been an enormous success and it is now published in Monterrey and Mexico City. Pili’s poise in front of the camera has also led to various hosting gigs for different clients such as 5 Gum, AXE, Sunsilk, Burger King, Fiji Water among others. However, Pili also expresses concern for the youth and society in general. Thus, she’s participated as spokesperson for the National Heart Day, John Dewey College Campaign coaching high school kids to pursue a college degree and Si Bebes, No Guies campaign promoting young men and women not to drink and drive. She is also a spokesperson for ‘Voces’ a non-profit organization that helps the public education system in Puerto Rico by rebuilding school structures, giving monetary incentive to teachers & motivating students. She is fully bilingual in both Spanish and English and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. www.pilimontilla.com www.twitter.com/pilimontilla
Wall Street Journal’s Lee Hawkins
Lee Hawkins is a Wall Street Journal staff reporter and has been an on-air contributor at CNBC Television as part of The Journal’s content sharing agreement with the network since 2007. He is also author of Newbo Nation: America’s New Black Overclass where he addresses the new generation of black entrepreneurs in the sports, entertainment and media industries who have arisen in the last decade to create the largest population of black multimillionaires in history. It includes statistical and earnings data related blacks in the three industries and in-depth narrative reporting based on the lives of several of the most influential young black celebrities and behind-the-scenes entrepreneurs in America. The book will be launched during the NBA Finals. Hawkins is the host of the primetime one-hour documentary with the same title, Newbos: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass, which is based on some of the reporting from his book. Hawkins hopes to spark a national conversation about the role of black celebrities in the Obama age. The television special and the book call for a new era of entrepreneurship, collaboration, intergenerational mentorship, educational advancement, social awareness and accountability within this growing class. The project inspires, encourages and educates the millions of young Americans who hope to build brands, businesses and careers in the sports, entertainment and media industries. Previously, Hawkins covered General Motors Corp. from the Detroit bureau for The Journal. He began the assignment with CNBC after appearing frequently on CNBC as a guest commentator. Prior to covering GM and the challenges facing America’s Big Three automakers, Hawkins worked as a business reporter for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and the Wisconsin State Journal. Hawkins is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he was the editorial page editor of the Badger Herald student newspaper. “Lee is one of those people that looks beyond the obvious and tries to bring the human element into his journalism, showing you a side of celebrities or sports figures that normally you won’t see and those are the stories that inspire people not the sound bytes that make headlines, he’s a path maker and look forward to seeing his future shine bright for years to come”, stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.youtube.com/user/WSJDigitalNetwork www.twitter.com/leehawkins
DIY Mega Dens Host Anitra Mecadon
Highly charismatic, on the cutting edge and not afraid to get her hands dirty, Anitra Mecadon has designed some of the most well-known, hip, and edgy restaurants, residences, boutiques, galleries, and other spaces in Atlanta for the past 10 years. With a strong background in art and theater, combined with a degree in interior design, she creates inspiring interiors and exteriors. Whether she’s dangling from a scaffold or breaking down a concrete wall, Anitra’s rock ‘n’ roll approach gives her an edge not usually found in most designers. On DIY Network’s Mega Dens, Anitra designs and builds the ultimate rec room sanctuaries that exceed any family’s wildest imagination. These unbelievable room renovations feature incredible home theaters, innovative gaming areas, clever storage solutions and more. She had dreams at a young age to be able to grow in the entertainment business doing what she loves to do and using her creativity. Her story is one of persistence and it was a by chance video submission that landed her in front of a decision maker that said this girl is a star, and a star she has become tackling whatever obstacles come her way. Anitra is a prime example of someone never giving up on their dream and she never has given up on it and now she is living her dream. She is going to become a staple in the DIY and actually reality TV realm for some time to come. “Anitra Mecadon is by far one of the most grounded and sensational guests that I have had on the show, her vibrancy and zest not only for life but for what she does for a living is uncanny. If I had to make a comparison I would say that Anitra is to DIY that Rachel Ray has been for the Food Network, she is a definite gem” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.anitramecadon.com http://www.diynetwork.com/anitra-mecadon/bio/index.html www.twitter.com/anitramecadon
Actor, Author and Acclaimed Keynote Speaker James Mapes
James Mapes is the founder of Quantum Leap Thinking™, creator of The Transformational Coach™, expert on the psychology of “applied imagination,” best- selling author, highly acclaimed business speaker, consultant, seminar leader and personal excellence coach. For over 30 years, James has been an ardent student of human behavior and dedicated to helping individuals, teams and organizations identify and break through barriers to reach their goals and achieve success. He encourages people to be open to new ways of thinking, and his goal is to help everyone make the “quantum leap” toward more creative, productive and confident lives. For both businesses and individuals, his message promotes an innovative, powerful way of thinking and provides a new-found mastery over their imagination and perceptions so that, in his words, “the invisible becomes visible and the impossible becomes possible.” The results have been nothing short of extraordinary, creating key breakthroughs in both organizational and personal excellence. James Mapes’ success as a speaker and highly regarded authority on the imagination, creative thinking, communication, managing change, organizational problem-solving, successful teamwork and coaching is due to his early training as an actor and experience as a theatrical producer. In 1969, he graduated from California State University with a Master of Arts degree in theater and speech. He then worked in repertory theater, off-Broadway and directed two of his own theater companies, amassing dozens of television and movie credits. As a performer, he developed a unique stage presence with a special talent for connecting with his audience. Mapes’ work has earned him appearances on CNN, The Today Show, Good Morning America and Fox Family Channel, among other media outlets. As a recognized business speaker and performance coach, James has spoken to hundreds of public and private companies in more than 70 countries. His clients include financial institutions, software companies, the military, the healthcare industry, financial institutions, training and development divisions of large corporations and major non-profit organizations. Companies, associations, universities and business schools including – IBM Corporate, U.S. Coast Guard, Lockheed Martin and The Princeton Center for Leadership Training – have quoted Mapes in training manuals and textbooks. James Mapes personal goal of living an exceptional life is reflected in both his business activities as well as his recreational pursuits, which range from scuba-diving, ballooning, racecar driving, Kempo Karate, and world travel, to an avid interest in reading. His two highly regarded books areQuantum Leap Thinking: An Owner’s Guide to the Mind and The Workbook: The Magic of Quantum Leap Thinking. His new book The Elephant and the Rider: Living an Exceptional Life is scheduled for publication in 2012. James Mapes presentations are personal, interactive and humorous. Above all, he creates results and makes a lasting difference in the energy level, commitment and productivity of each individual in his audience. In the 1970′s, James became interested in the power of the subconscious mind. To better understand this intriguing area, he researched psychology, philosophy, neurology and eventually, hypnotherapy Neuro-Linguistic Programming. His expertise quickly earned him recognition as a clinical hypnotist, becoming highly effective in assisting clients in weight reduction, smoking cessation, the elimination of phobias and pain reduction for terminally ill cancer patients. As a skilled practitioner of regression techniques, he helped the New York City Police Department in “memory recovery” with both witnesses to, and victims of, crime and he has worked with professional athletes to help improve their performance in their sport. James Mapes has created an ongoing series of self-improvement audio recordings and writes a syndicated newspaper column for Hearst newspapers in Connecticut and The Arizona Reporter. James also enjoys presenting his one-man show, Journey Into the Imagination at performing arts centers and universities around the country. He appeared on Broadway in 2003 and presented A Whirlwind Tour of the Mind at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in Manhattan in 2007. When not touring, James and his wife divide their time between residences in Westport, Connecticut, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Websites: www.jamesmapes.com www.twitter.com/jamesmapes
TV Sitcom Star/Minister Demond Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_demondwilson_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have one of the stars of the hit TV sitcom of the 1970’s, “Sanford & Son” on the show. Demond Wilson along with his co-star Redd Foxx set the entertainment world on fire during the 1970’s by opening up doors that were closed for African Americans, in short they were pioneers. Growing up with great direction for his parents Wilson set out on a journey which put God first in his life, with his family at a close second and his career, ministry or entertainment, dead last. Demond Wilson was born in Valdosta, Ga., on Oct. 13, 1946. His parents were South Georgia natives. Early in childhood his family relocated to New York, where the future TV star began acting on-stage at the age of six. Between appearances on Broadway and growing up in Manhattan, he would visit his grandmother and relatives back in Georgia each summer. He loved to go fishing for catfish in the local creek, and along with his cousins he sold boiled peanuts at the Valdosta train station. As his acting career was blossoming, Uncle Sam came calling. Wilson was drafted into the Army, and was sent south to Ft. Jackson, S.C., Ft. Lee, Va., and Ft. Gordon, Ga. Vietnam was his ultimate destination. He became a decorated soldier during his tour of duty in 1966. “I was a warrior. At 62, I’m still a warrior. I’m a warrior for Jesus in the army of the Lord. But when you got to Vietnam, everybody was your brother. The staunchest redneck racist became your brother, because you have to depend on each other to stay alive.” Upon returning to the States, Wilson was blindsided by the anti-war movement, which yelled at him for wearing his uniform and showcasing his medals. He had a hard time getting a job, and decided to give the profession he’d been tinkering with since childhood an all-out try. It worked. Wilson earned the role of “Charlie Blossom” in the 1971 Sidney Poitier film The Organization, which was filmed in San Francisco. This westward move soon led to a cameo as a comedic burglar in an episode of All In The Family. The producers of a new NBC sitcom caught Wilson’s performance on the Carroll O’Connor comedy, and invited him to audition for a role that would forever change his life. The pilot episode of Sanford And Son was shot in the fall of 1971, and debuted to impressive ratings on Jan. 14, 1972. The show’s unforgettable opening, complete with a catchy Quincy Jones theme song, features Wilson driving around in a beat-up 1951 Ford pickup truck, emblazoned with a “Sanford And Son” logo on the side. The rising actor played the role of “Lamont Sanford,” alongside Missouri comedian Redd Foxx, who played the role of “Fred G. Sanford,” a junk peddler in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. He and Foxx had not known each other before the show, but they quickly bonded and their relationship on and off-screen was magical. Wilson writes about this in his new book, Second Banana: The Bitter Sweet Memoirs Of The Sanford And Son Years. A successful comedic pairing requires a clown and straight man, Wilson points out. He played the straight man perfectly on this sitcom, which rose to No. 2 in the ratings during its 1972-77 run. Sanford And Son was the first black TV show to hit the ratings jackpot. However, the Norman Lear-produced show did require some tinkering by Wilson and Foxx. A team of mostly Jewish writers penned the show, and the dialogue of each episode had to be re-written and ad-libbed by the black actors. Almost 40 years after the show premiered, it continues to air in syndication in over 40 countries around the world. TV Land broadcasts the show to over 93 million U.S. homes. The success of Sanford And Son has led to many falsehoods about Wilson, rumors that he addresses in the new book. He says that he thought once and for all he would set it straight and tell the truth. He was never addicted to cocaine, and he didn’t become angry and chase Lear down the hall with a gun, a rumor that gives him a good laugh. After Sanford And Son ended in 1977, Wilson appeared on other TV shows, including Baby, I’m Back, and The New Odd Couple. Wilson’s small screen gigs took a back seat in the 1980s when he became an evangelical minister. He’s traveled the world to spread the Gospel. He’s also led a prison ministry. In recent months Wilson has come out of acting hibernation, where he’s combined his love of the Lord with acting in the forthcoming Christian movie Faith Ties, which is kind of a black version of It’s A Wonderful Life. He stars in the role of a millionaire that loses everything and becomes a homeless drunk. In Palm Desert, the Southern Californian with a Southern upbringing lives with his wife of 36 years, Cicely. The couple have six children, and three grandchildren. “Demond Wilson is one of the classiest guys in Entertainment, his view on life and entrepreneurship in America should be listen to by many people wondering what is that disconnect in today’s America. His commitment to God and Family, and his trials and tribulations that he went through as he and Redd Foxx laid the groundwork for other African Americans to excel in the entertainment business is not only impressive but very much so downplayed by the media. I have to say after speaking with him I gained a respect for him as a person which will never wither,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. “Demond Wilson’s book Second Banana is a must read for anyone that truly wants to know how he and Redd Foxx paved the way for African Americans in the TV arena,” Velazquez added. Websites: http://www.2ndbanana.net/ www.demondwilson.com www.twitter.com/demondwilson
Comedian / Actor / Producer Dexter Tucker
Dexter Tucker is An Actor, Comedian, Producer and Writer from Decatur, GA and are a mere sampling of adjectives to describe a man with so many talents. Dexter Tucker’s hilarious and charming comedy style has granted him respect and created a huge demand for him on the comedy circuit in the states as well as abroad. He has starring roles in movies such as “The Comedy Club”, “Black Men Can Swim”, “Playa in the Pulpit”, and “Treasure in the Hood”. He has graced the stage in an inspirational play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man”, “If You Don’t Tell, I Won’t Tell”, starring Don “DC Curry” and Gary “Lil G” Jenkins (SILK). “Money Talk”, “So Fresh & So Clean”, and “My Big Phat Hiphop Family” and coming soon to theatres in the fall of 2009 “Lynch Mob” are a list of Dexter’s featured movies roles. Currently Dexter is producing, directing and starring in the up coming blockbuster movie “The Comedy Club” due to premier in theaters late 2011, early 2012. In addition to these various roles, Dexter is the writer and creative director behind this hilarious film starring Chrystale Wilson, Shae Johnson, comedian Honey Bunz and an all-star cast of nationally known comics. dexter has taken his talents further and had stepped behind the cameras and is the writer and director of a reality show call DreamGirls of the ATL. Dexter has entertained the comedy stage throughout the U.S. such as The Comedy Union in Los Angeles, The Miami Improv Comedy Club, Atlanta’s Uptown Comedy Corner and Punchline Comedy Club and Birmingham’s Stardome Comedy Club just to name a few. Dexter is currently touring with the play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man” and also with various other entertainers doing what he loves the most, Comedy. He has appeared on the Tom Joyner’s Fantastic Voyage Cruise 2007. In the past years, he was the host for the Gerald Levert/Will Downing Tour and also for Chastain Park, Patti Labelle Concert Tour and Frankie Beverly and Maze featuring EnVogue concert tour in Atlanta, GA. Dexter has entertained audiences on the nation’s hottest comedy TV shows; BET’S Comicview and HBO’s Robert Townsend: Partner in Crime. Dexter Tucker is a rising star. A force to be reckoned with, he has a natural born gift of entertainment. Dexter continues to entertain audiences with joyful tears and laughter as he showcases his talent to the world. Websites: www.dextertucker.com
Actress / Model / Humanitarian Cassandra Hepburn
Cassandra Hepburn was born to an English military official named Lewis and a Chinese/Philippine mother Nellie on a small island off the coast of the Philippines called Leyte Island. At an early age Cassandra decided that acting was her life’s calling. She was only 12 when she made her acting debut in Stephen King’s “The Stand.” After graduating High School at 14, she moved to New York to fully devote herself to the perfection of her craft, this led to a brief stint on the popular daytime soap “As The World Turns.” Cassandra eventually moved to Paris to model with some of the top designers in the world. She graced the modeling scene and worked for designers such as Sonia Rykiel while living and studying in France. In 1999, Cassandra also spent some time at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) taking courses in Classical and Shakespearean acting. She has shared the screen with Dennis Hopper and Michael Madsen in Quentin Tarantino Presents: Hellride directed by Larry Bishop (Kill Bill) which was the most anticipated film at Sundance in 2008. She worked alongside Matthew McConaughey in Surfer Dude playing Woody Harrelson’s wife, Luanne. Cassandra has also worked with such stars as Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger and Ray Liota in Even Money directed by Mark Rydell, as well as a supporting role in Sydney Lumet’s Find Me Guilty, starring Vin Diesel. Cassandra has also made a number of appearances on the small screen, the most notable to date being a guest star in the TV series Medium, starring Patricia Arquette as well as a reoccurring role on The Young and the Restless. “Cassandra is what most should aspire to be, someone that not only wanted to be a dreamer but wanted to live her dreams while doing good in the world, her off screen efforts is what makes her an amazing person, I am honored to know her and look forward to seeing this shinning start illuminate brighter than ever before.” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.cassandrahepburn.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1141576/bio
Actress / Model / Recording Artist Amy Weber
Amy Weber grew up in Mapleton, Illinois before her family relocated to Florida, just before she was to begin high school. Her childhood was hardly idyllic, as she was forced to race motorcycles by her father, who wasn’t the easiest man to disappoint. Still, Weber managed to maintain a healthy high school existence, starring on the varsity track team, the debate team and the cheerleading squad. Although Amy’s parents pressured their daughter to attend university, Amy grew weary of school after her first year at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and decided to drive all the way from Florida to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. Amy Weber’s rise in Hollywood came fast and hard. After arriving in Los Angeles not knowing a single soul, Weber quickly landed an agent, which led to consistent work in commercials for Wrigley’s, 7-Up and Nestea. As her profile started to grow, Weber landed plum roles in the soap operas Port Charles and The Young and the Restless, while guest starring in iconic shows like CSI: Las Vegas, Saved by the Bell, Melrose Place, Pacific Blue, 7th Heaven, and City Guys. Weber’s most famous television role to date has to be that of Porcelain Bidet on the Howard Stern-produced hit FX series, Son of the Beach. After a nationwide search for the next WWE Diva, Amy Weber was selected to join WWE SmackDown. Although she was given a string of meaty plot lines, including a rivalry with Joy Giovanni, and an alliance with John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Weber never felt truly comfortable as a member of the WWE. In 2005, she announced her retirement amid allegations of inappropriate behavior by her fellow wrestlers. After the deflating experience of the WWE, Amy Weber used her augmented profile to book roles in several feature films including The Bet , The Contract, Becoming Pony Boi , Transmorphers, Diablita, and The Pumpkin Karver. She also began Amy Weber Productions, wrote the book An Insider’s Guide to Making It in Show Business, hosted the show Good Samaritans, and even is a recording artist, and in the middle of her busy career she has found the time to have a family and be an awesome mother to her twin children Madison and Levi who just turned 3 years old. Her latest song “Let it Rain” is topping the charts on a global basis and she hopes to perform in front of a massive audience in the very near future, you’ll have to listen to the show to find out more. “I feature many guests on my show and Amy’s story is one of a true warrior, facing adversity at its highest level since childhood but grinning, moving forward and becoming successful in every arena she focused on, it was an honor having her on the show,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.amyweber.com www.twitter.com/therealamyweber
Reality Show Star/Casting Agent Erika Landin
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_erikalandin_interviewucw_complete.mp3 Erika Michelle Landin is best known to the masses for her appearance on two seasons of the reality TV show Big Brother, placing fourth in Big Brother 4 in 2003 and placing second in Big Brother: All-Stars in 2006. After Big Brother 4, along with other reality show participants, she appeared in the movie The Scorned, which was aired on the E! TV channel and distributed on DVD. Landin played Sandra in the horror movie, about a group of young adults coming upon a house possibly inhabited by a (thought to be) dead woman. Previously, in 1998, Landin had a minor appearance in the film Dance with Me as a dancer. Landin has also appeared in numerous commercials, and has been on the cover of “Femme Fatales” magazine. Landin is now involved in reality show casting with the firm the Casting Duo, she has casted such reality based show as Survivor 12-16, The Amazing Race 9-21 just recently cast the next Bachelor (Matt Grant) and has worked on shows such as MasterChef, Millionaire Matchmaker, Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, The Fashion Show and The Cougar. “Erika is a definite example of someone that took an opportunity that was put in her lap and saw through the facade to produce a true career opportunity and she is taking her reality show experience and putting it to good use by casting awesome people for some of the highest ranking reality shows on television today, she is a success in every way,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.castingduo.com To apply to be casted for her latest projects see below
Actor, Director & Krav Maga Specialist AJ Draven
A.J. Draven, is the recent winner of the Breakout Action Star Award for his leading role in Showtime’s, ‘Special Ops’ at the Action-On Film Festival. While proficient in various martial arts (Muay Thai Kick Boxing, MMA, and Eskrima) A.J. has risen to the top of one of the most successful self defense and fighting organizations in the United States, Krav Maga Worldwide, where he holds a 3rd degree Black Belt and started the official Krav Maga youth program (KM-X), which is now in over 400 martial arts schools across the world. An expert in both street and military combat tactics, A.J. has trained both Civilians and Law Enforcement Personnel, ranging from LAPD, Beverly Hills SWAT, Army, Air Force, Secret Service, FBI, private security, and various special assignment Anti-Terrorist units. He has now coordinated and choreographed the martial arts in 4 feature films, and has trained and choreographed actors for various television shows including ABC’s ‘Alias’, ‘Being Human,’ ‘Raising Hope’, and ‘The League’, as well as performing stunts and motion capture for popular video game titles such as HALO 4. As an Actor, A.J. has now played the lead role in 3 feature films, and has multiple starring vehicles in various stages of development. Prior to his award winning performance in ‘Special Ops’ (Showtime), A.J. had played the lead role in ‘The Thirst, Blood Wars,’ which currently airs on the Syfy Channel and the Chiller Network. He also has one of the leads in the feature film Absolute Fear, which is released in November 2012. Websites: www.enterthedraven.com www.twitter.com/JohnnyBadAss
Comedian/Actress/Writer Rebecca Corry
Rebecca has shot pilots for CBS, FOX, ESPN, GSN, OXYGEN and was a guest on LOGOS The Gossip Queens and was the new face of 4 international HERTZ spot playing the GAS alongside Owen Wilson as the voice. Rebecca says she understood funny, “when I came out of my mother’s womb thinking… what is this? Some kind of joke?” She was born and raised in the Seattle suburb of Kent, Washington…or as she likes to call it, “the El Camino-driving, hot dog water loving, one-toothed pregnant teen capital of the world.” Rebecca lived in Chicago for 9 years, where she studied writing, acting and improvisation at The Second City, Annoyance and Center Theater. After an 11-month run in the Chicago production of Tony and Tina’s Wedding as the pregnant maid of honor, Corry moved to Los Angeles. Immediately following her arrival she appeared at the HBO workspace in her first one-woman show, “Have You Ever Been Called a Dwarf?”, hosted a pilot for the Oxygen Network and was chosen to perform as a “New Face” at the Montreal Comedy Festival. Shortly after that, she landed a memorable role as Paul Giamatti’s receptionist, Astrid Barker, in the feature film “BIG FAT LIAR.” She then guest-starred on CBS’s “Yes, Dear” and was in a national commercial campaign for Gallo wine. Between performing at clubs like The Improv, The Ice House, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and many more, Rebecca hosted the second season of “Mix It Up.” The interior design show created and executive produced by Courteney Cox Arquette and David Arquette. She went on to guest star on “The King of Queens,” “The Bernie Mac Show,” “The Wayne Brady Show,” NBC’s “Late Friday,” “Comics Unleashed,” E’s 101 series,” Comedy Central’s Premium Blend” and Rules Of Engagement. Her second one woman show “REBECCA CORRY WITH BALLS” was the LA Weekly’s “Comedy Pick of the Week.” Rebecca beat out thousands to become a finalist on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing 4” and currently headlines at universities and clubs around the country. Rebecca’s 1/2 hour COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS special can be seen on Comedy Central and her first one hour special Thanks, God, is available now on DVD! Currently, Rebecca is commenting on VH1’s TOP 100 SEXY SINGERS. Rebecca’s true passions are comedy and animal rescue and she travels the country with her beautiful rescued Pitbull named Angel. If you see them in your town or on your plane…be sure to say hello! “Rebecca is not only a true entertainer but she uses that star power to do good in the world, her heart is as big as her future and thats pretty big, its always good to know that one person has the ability to invoke some change for the better in the world, this is something that this comedian/actress strives to do and I commend her for it” Stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.rebeccacorry.com www.twitter.com/therebeccacorry http://www.youtube.com/user/518rebecca Check out 2 Manly Ladies at: www.swirlaroo.com
Travel Channel’s Food Wars Host Camille Ford
Camille is presently the host of Design Wars on HGTV, The Movie Show for In Demand, Food Wars and Best Places I’ve Ever Been on Travel Channel. Aside from being a TV personality, she is an Ambassador for Lululemon, Adventure Guide, advocate for human rights, and owner of Sassy Pole Girls (featured on MTV & TLC). She is also ranked in the Top 100 Sexiest female celebrities for 2011 and 2012 by Smartasses.net She is an award-winning producer and performer for various radio programs, theater, webisodes, standup comedy, commercials, and independent films. Receiving multiple Innovative Theatre Award nominations. She was recognized in Time Out Magazine for most promising actor and was listed in NY Magazine’s “Top Picks”. She has also worked with notable chefs, personalities, and athletes. Her passion for is for life, food, and learning is contagious. She has been mentioned in a multitude of websites, articles, and books. Within 2 months of her first show being on air she had 30,000+ followers on Facebook. Her goal: “Inspire people to get hungry for life! Mentally and physically challenging others is my greatest pleasure. Whether it’s on a plate, in a classroom, or up a mountain; humor, knowledge, and compassion are vital for building successful communities and individuals”. Some favorite activities and favorite places: Spelunking (Honduras), Scaling glaciers (Iceland), Moose hunting (Canada), Backpacking (Hawaii), Motorcycle riding (Egypt), Kayaking (Jordan River), Rock climbing (Zion canyon), Sailing (Croatia), Cattle wrangling (Arizona), Women’s rugby, Competitive soccer, Beach volleyball, trail running, backcountry skiing, skydiving, DWS, scuba… you get the idea. “Cammie is such a dynamite person, her view on life is something that everyone can learn from, live life to the fullest. Her future just continues to get brighter and brighter, from TV to off Broadway to the bookshelves and your local video store, you’re going to hear a lot about Camille Ford in the months and years to come , she’s what others should look to when they want to be inspired”, stated UCW Radio Show host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.camillefordofficialsite.com www.twitter.com/camiford http://www.sassypolegirls.com/
Host and Actress Pili Montilla
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_pilimontilla_interviewucw.mp3 Without a doubt, Pili Montilla is the new latina. She represents biculturalism & bilingualism in a smart, approachable, energetic way. Her strengths include her interviewing skills, power to entertain in front of a live audience, unique personality and her music, fashion and entertainment knowledge. These strengths have led her to interview the biggest music and movie artists in the world. Actress and host, Pili has incredible presence and a charming personality. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico Pili has shown a great interest in the arts from a very early age. With a B.A. in Dramatic Arts from Boston College and performing art studies from Oxford University, University of London, M& M Studios in Mexico City, Cay Michael Patten Studios in New York City and Puerto Rico, Pili has the discipline, the personality and most importantly the desire to rise to the top. For over two years Pili was the host of LATV’s entertainment show, En la Zona. Pili was also the host of LATV’s famous show LATV En Concierto where she interviewed an invited artist (Julieta Venegas, Cristian Castro, Luis Fonsi, are a few examples) for a half hour in front of a live audience. Pili has had the chance to travel and cover important events such as Festival de la Calle 8 in Miami, Los Premios Billboard, Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) and the Latin Grammys. She also covers red carpets and junkets for important films like ‘Valentine’s Day’ (Ashton Kutcher), ‘Edge of Darkness’ (Mel Gibson) & ‘The Blind Side’ (Sandra Bullock), among many other films and artists. Pili helped create www.sonidolounge.com where she hosted and produced this half hour broadband music show. Before moving to Los Angeles, Pili was seen daily as the main VJ for MTV PR for two years. It was here where she hosted various segments and programs: Fashion & Beauty Tips, MTV PR News, Top Ten Countdown, interviews, voiceovers and the movie segment Flick’d. Pili was responsible for the research, writing and memorizing the content of these segments. She was also called upon to host different specials, such as MTV 2’s $2 Bill Concert in the Bronx, New York, MTV PR’s My Barrio and the Green Carpet at Los Premios MTV in Mexico City. Her ability to make artists and celebrities feel comfortable has earned her the opportunity to interview some of the hottest Latin and international artists including Ricky Martin, Gwen Steffani, Daddy Yankee, Hillary Duff, Calle 13, Shakira and Nelly Furtado among others. Formally trained as a dancer and actress, Pili has appeared in numerous entertainment venues. Some of her projects have included a recurring role as the villain Nancy in the soap opera Duena y Senora and Telemundo‘s Decisiones. She has also participated in various theater productions as well as musicals. She received great critic reviews for her performance as Judy in the musical A Chorus Line. Her role as Isabel on the soap Don Amor for Canal 13-Chile caused great commotion and quickly grabbed the attention of the press. Pili is also a radio personality. In fact she is the only female voice of one of Puerto Rico’s most popular radio station, Toca de To 102.5 where she has been hosting the ’20 Online’ radio show for four years. Her presence has raised the show’s ratings making it #1 in it’s category. Currently, Pili works for the new Direct TV channel ‘Video Exitos’ where she host their daily show ‘Top DS’ and gets to interview the biggest names in Latin music. She is also the Hollywood correspondent for VMe TV’s movie show, ‘En Pantalla.’ Her fame has extended to Honduras where she is the spokesperson for the #1 local beer, SAB Miller’s Barena. Her relationship with the brand extends to hosting their biggest events, interviewing and filming segments and commercials for the brand. This experience lead her to work for E! Latino and their show ‘It’s Hot!’ Her experience as an entertainment reporter and actor has helped her expand her brand to Mexico where she was approached by the editor of the fastest growing newspaper in the world, ‘Publimetro’ to write a weekly column titled ‘Pili. . .desde Hollywood’. It has been an enormous success and it is now published in Monterrey and Mexico City. Pili’s poise in front of the camera has also led to various hosting gigs for different clients such as 5 Gum, AXE, Sunsilk, Burger King, Fiji Water among others. However, Pili also expresses concern for the youth and society in general. Thus, she’s participated as spokesperson for the National Heart Day, John Dewey College Campaign coaching high school kids to pursue a college degree and Si Bebes, No Guies campaign promoting young men and women not to drink and drive. She is also a spokesperson for ‘Voces’ a non-profit organization that helps the public education system in Puerto Rico by rebuilding school structures, giving monetary incentive to teachers & motivating students. She is fully bilingual in both Spanish and English and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. www.pilimontilla.com www.twitter.com/pilimontilla
Wall Street Journal’s Lee Hawkins
Lee Hawkins is a Wall Street Journal staff reporter and has been an on-air contributor at CNBC Television as part of The Journal’s content sharing agreement with the network since 2007. He is also author of Newbo Nation: America’s New Black Overclass where he addresses the new generation of black entrepreneurs in the sports, entertainment and media industries who have arisen in the last decade to create the largest population of black multimillionaires in history. It includes statistical and earnings data related blacks in the three industries and in-depth narrative reporting based on the lives of several of the most influential young black celebrities and behind-the-scenes entrepreneurs in America. The book will be launched during the NBA Finals. Hawkins is the host of the primetime one-hour documentary with the same title, Newbos: The Rise of America’s New Black Overclass, which is based on some of the reporting from his book. Hawkins hopes to spark a national conversation about the role of black celebrities in the Obama age. The television special and the book call for a new era of entrepreneurship, collaboration, intergenerational mentorship, educational advancement, social awareness and accountability within this growing class. The project inspires, encourages and educates the millions of young Americans who hope to build brands, businesses and careers in the sports, entertainment and media industries. Previously, Hawkins covered General Motors Corp. from the Detroit bureau for The Journal. He began the assignment with CNBC after appearing frequently on CNBC as a guest commentator. Prior to covering GM and the challenges facing America’s Big Three automakers, Hawkins worked as a business reporter for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and the Wisconsin State Journal. Hawkins is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he was the editorial page editor of the Badger Herald student newspaper. “Lee is one of those people that looks beyond the obvious and tries to bring the human element into his journalism, showing you a side of celebrities or sports figures that normally you won’t see and those are the stories that inspire people not the sound bytes that make headlines, he’s a path maker and look forward to seeing his future shine bright for years to come”, stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: http://www.youtube.com/user/WSJDigitalNetwork www.twitter.com/leehawkins
DIY Mega Dens Host Anitra Mecadon
Highly charismatic, on the cutting edge and not afraid to get her hands dirty, Anitra Mecadon has designed some of the most well-known, hip, and edgy restaurants, residences, boutiques, galleries, and other spaces in Atlanta for the past 10 years. With a strong background in art and theater, combined with a degree in interior design, she creates inspiring interiors and exteriors. Whether she’s dangling from a scaffold or breaking down a concrete wall, Anitra’s rock ‘n’ roll approach gives her an edge not usually found in most designers. On DIY Network’s Mega Dens, Anitra designs and builds the ultimate rec room sanctuaries that exceed any family’s wildest imagination. These unbelievable room renovations feature incredible home theaters, innovative gaming areas, clever storage solutions and more. She had dreams at a young age to be able to grow in the entertainment business doing what she loves to do and using her creativity. Her story is one of persistence and it was a by chance video submission that landed her in front of a decision maker that said this girl is a star, and a star she has become tackling whatever obstacles come her way. Anitra is a prime example of someone never giving up on their dream and she never has given up on it and now she is living her dream. She is going to become a staple in the DIY and actually reality TV realm for some time to come. “Anitra Mecadon is by far one of the most grounded and sensational guests that I have had on the show, her vibrancy and zest not only for life but for what she does for a living is uncanny. If I had to make a comparison I would say that Anitra is to DIY that Rachel Ray has been for the Food Network, she is a definite gem” stated Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. Websites: www.anitramecadon.com http://www.diynetwork.com/anitra-mecadon/bio/index.html www.twitter.com/anitramecadon
Actor, Author and Acclaimed Keynote Speaker James Mapes
James Mapes is the founder of Quantum Leap Thinking™, creator of The Transformational Coach™, expert on the psychology of “applied imagination,” best- selling author, highly acclaimed business speaker, consultant, seminar leader and personal excellence coach. For over 30 years, James has been an ardent student of human behavior and dedicated to helping individuals, teams and organizations identify and break through barriers to reach their goals and achieve success. He encourages people to be open to new ways of thinking, and his goal is to help everyone make the “quantum leap” toward more creative, productive and confident lives. For both businesses and individuals, his message promotes an innovative, powerful way of thinking and provides a new-found mastery over their imagination and perceptions so that, in his words, “the invisible becomes visible and the impossible becomes possible.” The results have been nothing short of extraordinary, creating key breakthroughs in both organizational and personal excellence. James Mapes’ success as a speaker and highly regarded authority on the imagination, creative thinking, communication, managing change, organizational problem-solving, successful teamwork and coaching is due to his early training as an actor and experience as a theatrical producer. In 1969, he graduated from California State University with a Master of Arts degree in theater and speech. He then worked in repertory theater, off-Broadway and directed two of his own theater companies, amassing dozens of television and movie credits. As a performer, he developed a unique stage presence with a special talent for connecting with his audience. Mapes’ work has earned him appearances on CNN, The Today Show, Good Morning America and Fox Family Channel, among other media outlets. As a recognized business speaker and performance coach, James has spoken to hundreds of public and private companies in more than 70 countries. His clients include financial institutions, software companies, the military, the healthcare industry, financial institutions, training and development divisions of large corporations and major non-profit organizations. Companies, associations, universities and business schools including – IBM Corporate, U.S. Coast Guard, Lockheed Martin and The Princeton Center for Leadership Training – have quoted Mapes in training manuals and textbooks. James Mapes personal goal of living an exceptional life is reflected in both his business activities as well as his recreational pursuits, which range from scuba-diving, ballooning, racecar driving, Kempo Karate, and world travel, to an avid interest in reading. His two highly regarded books areQuantum Leap Thinking: An Owner’s Guide to the Mind and The Workbook: The Magic of Quantum Leap Thinking. His new book The Elephant and the Rider: Living an Exceptional Life is scheduled for publication in 2012. James Mapes presentations are personal, interactive and humorous. Above all, he creates results and makes a lasting difference in the energy level, commitment and productivity of each individual in his audience. In the 1970′s, James became interested in the power of the subconscious mind. To better understand this intriguing area, he researched psychology, philosophy, neurology and eventually, hypnotherapy Neuro-Linguistic Programming. His expertise quickly earned him recognition as a clinical hypnotist, becoming highly effective in assisting clients in weight reduction, smoking cessation, the elimination of phobias and pain reduction for terminally ill cancer patients. As a skilled practitioner of regression techniques, he helped the New York City Police Department in “memory recovery” with both witnesses to, and victims of, crime and he has worked with professional athletes to help improve their performance in their sport. James Mapes has created an ongoing series of self-improvement audio recordings and writes a syndicated newspaper column for Hearst newspapers in Connecticut and The Arizona Reporter. James also enjoys presenting his one-man show, Journey Into the Imagination at performing arts centers and universities around the country. He appeared on Broadway in 2003 and presented A Whirlwind Tour of the Mind at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in Manhattan in 2007. When not touring, James and his wife divide their time between residences in Westport, Connecticut, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Websites: www.jamesmapes.com www.twitter.com/jamesmapes
TV Sitcom Star/Minister Demond Wilson
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_demondwilson_interviewucw.mp3 The UCW Radio Host Louis Velazquez had the opportunity to have one of the stars of the hit TV sitcom of the 1970’s, “Sanford & Son” on the show. Demond Wilson along with his co-star Redd Foxx set the entertainment world on fire during the 1970’s by opening up doors that were closed for African Americans, in short they were pioneers. Growing up with great direction for his parents Wilson set out on a journey which put God first in his life, with his family at a close second and his career, ministry or entertainment, dead last. Demond Wilson was born in Valdosta, Ga., on Oct. 13, 1946. His parents were South Georgia natives. Early in childhood his family relocated to New York, where the future TV star began acting on-stage at the age of six. Between appearances on Broadway and growing up in Manhattan, he would visit his grandmother and relatives back in Georgia each summer. He loved to go fishing for catfish in the local creek, and along with his cousins he sold boiled peanuts at the Valdosta train station. As his acting career was blossoming, Uncle Sam came calling. Wilson was drafted into the Army, and was sent south to Ft. Jackson, S.C., Ft. Lee, Va., and Ft. Gordon, Ga. Vietnam was his ultimate destination. He became a decorated soldier during his tour of duty in 1966. “I was a warrior. At 62, I’m still a warrior. I’m a warrior for Jesus in the army of the Lord. But when you got to Vietnam, everybody was your brother. The staunchest redneck racist became your brother, because you have to depend on each other to stay alive.” Upon returning to the States, Wilson was blindsided by the anti-war movement, which yelled at him for wearing his uniform and showcasing his medals. He had a hard time getting a job, and decided to give the profession he’d been tinkering with since childhood an all-out try. It worked. Wilson earned the role of “Charlie Blossom” in the 1971 Sidney Poitier film The Organization, which was filmed in San Francisco. This westward move soon led to a cameo as a comedic burglar in an episode of All In The Family. The producers of a new NBC sitcom caught Wilson’s performance on the Carroll O’Connor comedy, and invited him to audition for a role that would forever change his life. The pilot episode of Sanford And Son was shot in the fall of 1971, and debuted to impressive ratings on Jan. 14, 1972. The show’s unforgettable opening, complete with a catchy Quincy Jones theme song, features Wilson driving around in a beat-up 1951 Ford pickup truck, emblazoned with a “Sanford And Son” logo on the side. The rising actor played the role of “Lamont Sanford,” alongside Missouri comedian Redd Foxx, who played the role of “Fred G. Sanford,” a junk peddler in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. He and Foxx had not known each other before the show, but they quickly bonded and their relationship on and off-screen was magical. Wilson writes about this in his new book, Second Banana: The Bitter Sweet Memoirs Of The Sanford And Son Years. A successful comedic pairing requires a clown and straight man, Wilson points out. He played the straight man perfectly on this sitcom, which rose to No. 2 in the ratings during its 1972-77 run. Sanford And Son was the first black TV show to hit the ratings jackpot. However, the Norman Lear-produced show did require some tinkering by Wilson and Foxx. A team of mostly Jewish writers penned the show, and the dialogue of each episode had to be re-written and ad-libbed by the black actors. Almost 40 years after the show premiered, it continues to air in syndication in over 40 countries around the world. TV Land broadcasts the show to over 93 million U.S. homes. The success of Sanford And Son has led to many falsehoods about Wilson, rumors that he addresses in the new book. He says that he thought once and for all he would set it straight and tell the truth. He was never addicted to cocaine, and he didn’t become angry and chase Lear down the hall with a gun, a rumor that gives him a good laugh. After Sanford And Son ended in 1977, Wilson appeared on other TV shows, including Baby, I’m Back, and The New Odd Couple. Wilson’s small screen gigs took a back seat in the 1980s when he became an evangelical minister. He’s traveled the world to spread the Gospel. He’s also led a prison ministry. In recent months Wilson has come out of acting hibernation, where he’s combined his love of the Lord with acting in the forthcoming Christian movie Faith Ties, which is kind of a black version of It’s A Wonderful Life. He stars in the role of a millionaire that loses everything and becomes a homeless drunk. In Palm Desert, the Southern Californian with a Southern upbringing lives with his wife of 36 years, Cicely. The couple have six children, and three grandchildren. “Demond Wilson is one of the classiest guys in Entertainment, his view on life and entrepreneurship in America should be listen to by many people wondering what is that disconnect in today’s America. His commitment to God and Family, and his trials and tribulations that he went through as he and Redd Foxx laid the groundwork for other African Americans to excel in the entertainment business is not only impressive but very much so downplayed by the media. I have to say after speaking with him I gained a respect for him as a person which will never wither,” said Louis Velazquez host of the UCW Radio Show. “Demond Wilson’s book Second Banana is a must read for anyone that truly wants to know how he and Redd Foxx paved the way for African Americans in the TV arena,” Velazquez added. Websites: http://www.2ndbanana.net/ www.demondwilson.com www.twitter.com/demondwilson
Comedian / Actor / Producer Dexter Tucker
Dexter Tucker is An Actor, Comedian, Producer and Writer from Decatur, GA and are a mere sampling of adjectives to describe a man with so many talents. Dexter Tucker’s hilarious and charming comedy style has granted him respect and created a huge demand for him on the comedy circuit in the states as well as abroad. He has starring roles in movies such as “The Comedy Club”, “Black Men Can Swim”, “Playa in the Pulpit”, and “Treasure in the Hood”. He has graced the stage in an inspirational play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man”, “If You Don’t Tell, I Won’t Tell”, starring Don “DC Curry” and Gary “Lil G” Jenkins (SILK). “Money Talk”, “So Fresh & So Clean”, and “My Big Phat Hiphop Family” and coming soon to theatres in the fall of 2009 “Lynch Mob” are a list of Dexter’s featured movies roles. Currently Dexter is producing, directing and starring in the up coming blockbuster movie “The Comedy Club” due to premier in theaters late 2011, early 2012. In addition to these various roles, Dexter is the writer and creative director behind this hilarious film starring Chrystale Wilson, Shae Johnson, comedian Honey Bunz and an all-star cast of nationally known comics. dexter has taken his talents further and had stepped behind the cameras and is the writer and director of a reality show call DreamGirls of the ATL. Dexter has entertained the comedy stage throughout the U.S. such as The Comedy Union in Los Angeles, The Miami Improv Comedy Club, Atlanta’s Uptown Comedy Corner and Punchline Comedy Club and Birmingham’s Stardome Comedy Club just to name a few. Dexter is currently touring with the play “The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man” and also with various other entertainers doing what he loves the most, Comedy. He has appeared on the Tom Joyner’s Fantastic Voyage Cruise 2007. In the past years, he was the host for the Gerald Levert/Will Downing Tour and also for Chastain Park, Patti Labelle Concert Tour and Frankie Beverly and Maze featuring EnVogue concert tour in Atlanta, GA. Dexter has entertained audiences on the nation’s hottest comedy TV shows; BET’S Comicview and HBO’s Robert Townsend: Partner in Crime. Dexter Tucker is a rising star. A force to be reckoned with, he has a natural born gift of entertainment. Dexter continues to entertain audiences with joyful tears and laughter as he showcases his talent to the world. Websites: www.dextertucker.com
Actress / Model / Humanitarian Cassandra Hepburn
Cassandra Hepburn was born to an English military official named Lewis and a Chinese/Philippine mother Nellie on a small island off the coast of the Philippines called Leyte Island. At an early age Cassandra decided that acting was her life’s calling. She was only 12 when she made her acting debut in Stephen King’s “The Stand.” After graduating High School at 14, she moved to New York to fully devote herself to the perfection of her craft, this led to a brief stint on the popular daytime soap “As The World Turns.” Cassandra eventually moved to Paris to model with some of the top designers in the world. She graced the modeling scene and worked for designers such as Sonia Rykiel while living and studying in France. In 1999, Cassandra also spent some time at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) taking courses in Classical and Shakespearean acting. She has shared the screen with Dennis Hopper and Michael Madsen in Quentin Tarantino Presents: Hellride directed by Larry Bishop (Kill Bill) which was the most anticipated film at Sundance in 2008. She worked alongside Matthew McConaughey in Surfer Dude playing Woody Harrelson’s wife, Luanne. Cassandra has also worked with such stars as Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger and Ray Liota in Even Money directed by Mark Rydell, as well as a supporting role in Sydney Lumet’s Find Me Guilty, starring Vin Diesel. Cassandra has also made a number of appearances on the small screen, the most notable to date being a guest star in the TV series Medium, starring Patricia Arquette as well as a reoccurring role on The Young and the Restless. “Cassandra is what most should aspire to be, someone that not only wanted to be a dreamer but wanted to live her dreams while doing good in the world, her off screen efforts is what makes her an amazing person, I am honored to know her and look forward to seeing this shinning start illuminate brighter than ever before.” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.cassandrahepburn.com http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1141576/bio
Actress / Model / Recording Artist Amy Weber
Amy Weber grew up in Mapleton, Illinois before her family relocated to Florida, just before she was to begin high school. Her childhood was hardly idyllic, as she was forced to race motorcycles by her father, who wasn’t the easiest man to disappoint. Still, Weber managed to maintain a healthy high school existence, starring on the varsity track team, the debate team and the cheerleading squad. Although Amy’s parents pressured their daughter to attend university, Amy grew weary of school after her first year at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and decided to drive all the way from Florida to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. Amy Weber’s rise in Hollywood came fast and hard. After arriving in Los Angeles not knowing a single soul, Weber quickly landed an agent, which led to consistent work in commercials for Wrigley’s, 7-Up and Nestea. As her profile started to grow, Weber landed plum roles in the soap operas Port Charles and The Young and the Restless, while guest starring in iconic shows like CSI: Las Vegas, Saved by the Bell, Melrose Place, Pacific Blue, 7th Heaven, and City Guys. Weber’s most famous television role to date has to be that of Porcelain Bidet on the Howard Stern-produced hit FX series, Son of the Beach. After a nationwide search for the next WWE Diva, Amy Weber was selected to join WWE SmackDown. Although she was given a string of meaty plot lines, including a rivalry with Joy Giovanni, and an alliance with John “Bradshaw” Layfield, Weber never felt truly comfortable as a member of the WWE. In 2005, she announced her retirement amid allegations of inappropriate behavior by her fellow wrestlers. After the deflating experience of the WWE, Amy Weber used her augmented profile to book roles in several feature films including The Bet , The Contract, Becoming Pony Boi , Transmorphers, Diablita, and The Pumpkin Karver. She also began Amy Weber Productions, wrote the book An Insider’s Guide to Making It in Show Business, hosted the show Good Samaritans, and even is a recording artist, and in the middle of her busy career she has found the time to have a family and be an awesome mother to her twin children Madison and Levi who just turned 3 years old. Her latest song “Let it Rain” is topping the charts on a global basis and she hopes to perform in front of a massive audience in the very near future, you’ll have to listen to the show to find out more. “I feature many guests on my show and Amy’s story is one of a true warrior, facing adversity at its highest level since childhood but grinning, moving forward and becoming successful in every arena she focused on, it was an honor having her on the show,” stated UCW Radio Show Host Louis Velazquez Websites: www.amyweber.com www.twitter.com/therealamyweber
Acclaimed Writer and Director Sheldon Lettich
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_SheldonLettich_04292021.mp3 Sheldon Lettich was born in New York City, but moved to California at a young age and grew up in the Los Angeles area. After graduation from high school he spent nearly four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a radio operator in South Vietnam with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, and later with the elite 1st Force Reconnaissance Company based at Camp Pendleton, California. He worked his way through college as a professional photographer, and attended at the American Film Institute’s Center for Advanced Film Studies as a Cinematography Fellow. Although his initial career goal was to become a director of photography, at the AFI his interests branched out to encompass writing and directing, which became the two fields where he found eventual success in the entertainment business. Based partly upon his experiences in Vietnam, he co-authored the renowned play, “Tracers,” with a group of Vietnam Vets who were also aspiring actors. First performed on July 4th, 1980 at the Odyssey Theater in Los Angeles, the play then traveled to Joseph Papp’s Public Theater in New York City, the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago (directed by Gary Sinise), the Royal Court Theater in London, and numerous venues worldwide. It received both Drama Desk Awards and L.A. Drama Critics Awards, and is still being performed throughout the world. Around the same time, Lettich was writing numerous spec screenplays. One of these, co-written with Josh Becker, subsequently became the cult classic, Thou Shalt Not Kill… Except (1985), which starred Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi. Eventually his screenplays began attracting the attention of producers in Hollywood. He co-authored the Cold War drama, Russkies (1987), which was the first starring role for a young Joaquin Phoenix. Around the same time he wrote the screenplay for the now-classic martial arts film, Bloodsport (1988), which launched the career of Jean-Claude Van Damme. One of his Vietnam-based screenplays caught the eye of Sylvester Stallone, which resulted in an overall deal with Stallone’s White Eagle Productions, and led to him co-writing Rambo III (1988) with Stallone. The success of Bloodsport not only turned Jean-Claude Van Damme into an international action star, but it also forged a long and ongoing friendship with the man who wrote it. Van Damme helped to launch Lettich’s directing career with the film, Lionheart (1990) , which became Van Damme’s first movie to be released theatrically by a major U.S. studio. This was followed by Double Impact (1991), which was filmed in Hong Kong, with Lettich directing Van Damme in a challenging double role as twin brothers seeking revenge for their parents’ murder. Lettich next discovered Mark Dacascos, who made his starring debut in Only the Strong (1993), a film that introduced the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira to international audiences. He also directed Dolph Lundgren in The Last Patrol (2000), and Daniel Bernhardt in Perfect Target (1997). Continuing his long association with Van Damme, Lettich was a writer and a producer on the historical French Foreign Legion film, Legionnaire (1998), starring Van Damme and shot on location in Morocco. And he directed The Order (2001), an action-thriller starring Van Damme and Charlton Heston, which was filmed on locations in Israel and Bulgaria. His most recent directorial effort, which he also co-wrote, is The Hard Corps (2006), an urban action-romance. Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Vivica A. Fox, the film was shot on locations around Vancouver, Canada, and on sound stages in Romania, and was financed and released worldwide by Sony Pictures Entertainment. His latest movie is Max (2015), which he co-wrote with his long-time friend, Boaz Yakin. The movie was directed by Boaz and produced by MGM. It was released nationwide in the USA by Warner Brothers on June 26th, 2015, and by the end of the summer had grossed $43 million. The novelization sold over 100,000 copies. A sequel has been completed. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0504802?ref_=nmbio_mbio http://www.sheldonlettich.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SheldonLettichOfficial/
Former World Martial Arts Champion and Actress Christine Bannon-Rodrigues
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_christinebannonrodrigues_interviewucw.mp3 When Christine Bannon-Rodrigues first bowed in she was 13 years old. At the time the Rhode Island teenager never realized that she would one-day reign supreme as one of the super stars in the world of martial arts. Christine studied Kenpo and Wu shu, earning her black belt at age 17. She quickly became the person to beat in fighting, forms and weapons. A formidable competitor Christine was a triple threat wherever she went. Her skill as a fighter was proven time and time again, and in forms and weapons Christine was unstoppable. In 1991 Christine astounded the martial arts world by becoming a Triple Crown winner at the WAKO World Championships in England. “I won three gold medals in forms, fighting and weapons,” Christine recalled. “Everyone thought it was a freak occurrence and that I was just lucky. That got me worked up so I decided to prove my critics wrong, so in 1993 I did it again.” After winning her second Triple Crown she turned her talents and efforts into becoming a TV and movie star. Martial arts legend and action choreographer Pat Johnson hired Christine to double the star in “The Next Karate Kid.” This led to roles in Mortal Kombat, WMAC Masters where she starred as “Lady Lightning and she stunt doubled Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl) in “Batman and Robin.”Christine has also been featured on the cover of every major martial arts magazine in the world and she has written and starred in more than seven instruction videotapes. She is also the darling of the trading card set, being featured in the 1992 John Paul Mitchell National Karate Team Premier edition, Karate Kards, Sport Karate Champions, Martial Arts Masters Trading Cards, Premier Edition and the International Card Collection of Athletes medallion collection. With an eye on the future, Christine says that the Black Belt Registry will be of great benefit to all martial artists, “The access it gives us (martial artists) to everything from training tapes to gear and so much more is amazing,” she says. “One of the things I use it for is finding authentic Chinese weapons. The Internet and the Black Belt Registry is going to take martial arts to its next level.” Christine has graced the cover of almost every major martial arts magazine in the world, her relentless pursuit of working with the youth of martial arts. “Christine is one of the true gems of the world of Martial Arts, her and her husband Don have contributed so much over the decades and continue to do so.” Louis Velazquez
Former World Kickboxing Champion, Actress and Stuntwoman Kathy Long
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-25-PowerHour_KathyLong_03312021.mp3 Although retired from the ring for several years now, Kathy Long is still one of the most recognized woman in kickboxing today! She is still active in the sport from doing special appearances and giving seminars to serving as an event official. She’s also been in several movies as well. During her career she won 5 World Kickboxing Titles. Kathy began her studies in the martial arts with Aikido and has also studied in arts such as Shorin Ryu Karate & Kung Fu. She currently holds 4 different Black Belts in 4 different styles (Kung Fu San Soo, Aikido, Kung Fu and Shorinryu Karate) including a Masters Rank in Kung Fu San Soo. She is an expert in handling firearms, knives, swords and all other weaponry. As a Professional Kickboxer Kathy has been known as as a well conditioned and hardened fighter. She was a very successful kickboxer winning a total of 5 World Championships and they include: 2, KICK World Titles1, WKA World Title1, ISKA World Title1, WMAC World Title where she pummeled Japanese fighter Kyoko Kamikaze in Las Vegas, breaking her ribs and bruising her kidneys as Kathy walked away with (at the time) the highest purse ever paid to a Female Kickboxer of $20,000. Her ring career included wins over Ramona Gatto,Bonnie Canino, Japanese star Kyoko “Kamikaze” Miyazaki, French champion Dani Rocard, Canadian champion Nora Daigle and two defeats over Denise Taylor. Her only loss as a professional kickboxer (18-1-1/5) came in a Muay Thai match with Britain’s Lisa Howarth at Pickett’s Lock near London in February 1990. There was to have been a rematch later that year and Kathy trained in the Thai style with that in mind. But then Lisa got badly cut in a loss to French savate champion Nancy Joseph, and had to cancel. A two time Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee (Woman of the Year 1991 & Full Contact Fighter of the Year 1992), she retired from kickboxing in the mid 1990s choosing to concentrate on her film career and other interests. She has appeared on more than 35 martial arts magazines covers in the United States, Europe and Asia. Her work in the movie industry includes stunt work and fight choreography: She was Michelle Pfeiffer’s stunt double in “Batman Returns” (1992) and fight choreographer for the “Death Becomes Her” (1992). She has appeared on several television shows, including “Walker, Texas Ranger” with Chuck Norris. She has written several monthly columns, titled “Long Shots” for Black Belt Magazine and has also appeared in movies such as Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997), Under the Gun (1995), The Stranger (1995) Natural Born Killers (1994), Knights (1993) and Rage and Honor (1992). However, Kathy has a long list of other accomplishments as well. She has appeared on numerous television shows and in publications ranging from People magazine to a full-color layout in the National Enquirer. She is also an accomplished musician who plays proficiently musical instruments such as the Harp, Violin and Guitar. She also wrote a book entitled “No! No! No!: A Woman’s Guide to Personal Defense and Street Safety “( Paperback / Berkley Publishing Group / October 1993) along with Kickboxing Fitness Videos such as, “Kickboxing for Fun & Fitness” & “Championship Kickboxing with Kathy Long – “Round 1” Kathy is also a model and spokesperson for Century Martial Arts Equipment.
Martial Artist, Former WWE Wrestler & Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller
Former WCW & WWE star, Martial Artist and Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller is beyond a wrestler, he is first and foremost a true martial artist. He has secured a recurring role on the new MacGyver TV series, has other film projects in motion and is launching his professional point fight league. Also on the show is actor and martial artist Vincent Cecere, he has a number of projects in the works that can’t be mentioned yet but they are sure to be awesome films. He does a lot of giving back that we hope to touch on next week. Miller made his World Championship Wrestling (WCW) debut when he saved Glacier from a two-on-one attack by Wrath and Mortis at the 1997 Slamboree pay-per-view. Initially thought as just a fan who had jumped the railing, the WCW commentators then realized that this was no ordinary man and he was in fact the three-time karate champion Ernest Miller. Glacier and Ernest Miller quickly became tag team partners in their feud with Mortis and Wrath. After Glacier turned on Miller, Ernest left him and became a villain with Sonny Onoo as his manager. It was during this time that Miller’s popularity heightened. As a villain, Miller adopted an arrogant, Muhammad Ali-like trash-talking personality, calling himself “The Greatest” and gloating that he could beat anybody within two minutes, which he often did using his signature kicks. It was also around this time that Ernest began wearing ruby slippers in the ring and dancing in a James Brown-esque fashion to celebrate his victories. He would claim on Nitro that he knew the actual James Brown, leading to a pay-per-view “dance-off” between Miller and Brown, who had been brought in specially. Miller even went as far promoting his own instructional, karate home video with a pseudo infomercial. This served as a comedic parody to Billy Blanks’ Tae Bo exercise videos which were quite popular at the time. Miller and Onoo also did comedy duo routines similar to Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan’s characters from the film Rush Hour. Miller then began a minor feud with Kaz Hayashi, as Onoo has been previously Hayashi’s manager and had left him to manage Miller. Ernest won several matches over Hayashi with Onoo’s help, and also enlisted Perry Saturn as his ally. However, Saturn suffered many losses against inferior opponents due to Miller’s botched interference, so the two faced off at Starrcade, where Saturn won. Miller continued coming out and challenging the fans, the wrestlers, and anyone else to try and take him out, feuding with Scott Norton. For a time, he started coming out with the snow machine and music of Glacier, which Onoo had “purchased”, but it was short-lived, and he soon returned to his James Brown music. In March 1999, Miller and Onoo attacked fellow martial artist Jerry Flynn, with Ernest cutting off Flynn’s ponytail as a sign of disrespect. They all faced off in Uncensored in a handicap match, but Flyinn defeated them both. Miller bounced back after some time, getting a win over Scott Norton after hitting him with a crowbar. He and Norton were scheduled to wrestle in The Great American Bash, but Norton was pulled out for health problems and replaced with Horace Hogan, who Miller defeated after kicking him with a steel-tipped red dancing shoe. In June 1999, Miller had a dancing contest with Disco Inferno, who he attacked in jealously over the fans’s attention. They fought in Bash at the Beach in a “dance match” with the stipulation that the loser could not dance anymore (though this stipulation was removed at Bash at the Beach), with Miller winning thanks to Onoo. The Cat’s next opponent would be Buff Bagwell, who became famous by doing an impersonation of Miller with a bald cap and black face paint. The two met at Road Wild, but this time Onoo’s help backfired when he accidentally hit the wrong man with a briefcase, making Miller lose the match. After that, the two broke up and Onoo left WCW.
Martial Arts Leader Oso Tayari Casel
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tayari_casel_power_hour_12182012.mp3 Oso Tayari Casel is a humanitarian dedicated to improving the world one community at a time. His many cultural and philanthropic missions to several countries around the world fostered his cognizance of impactful community involvement. Throughout the years, Oso advanced his service-oriented endeavors in the United States as a youth counselor, community engagement consultant, and most-notably as a world-renowned Martial Artist. His awareness of how Martial Arts and cultural involvement can transform communities is specifically harnessed within the Hospital Safety and Security Industry through Elite Security Services & Solutions, LLC. Oso Tayari Casel is the founder and director of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy, Inc.; an institution that researches, demonstrates and spreads the contribution that Africa and China have given to the international martial arts community, while simultaneously furthering the appreciation of contemporary and traditional African and Chinese culture. His studies include cultural and humanitarian missions to Africa, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, The Netherlands, and Taiwan, the Republic of China, the arts of Kupigana Ngumi, Shaolin and Tai Chi Chuan with the Directors of the Pan Afrikan Martial Arts Federation. One of the strongest aspects of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy is its dedication to community development, health and well being. Oso is an instructor at several elementary schools in the DC public school system. Over several decades he has worked as consultant for the Substance Abuse Services of the Department of Corrections for the Lorton Prison and Correctional Treatment Facilities. He has served as the Primary Substance Abuse Counselor for a federal program at a juvenile maximum-security prison and has worked with the District of Columbia Government’s Department of Human Services at group homes for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. In addition, he worked as a consultant to CASA Community Health, (Baltimore) a national prevention project focused on public housing developments funded by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. Oso is a Marital Arts Grand Master and utilizes his more than 55 years of experience as a Martial Arts Hall-of-Famer and instructor to lead Elite’s officers in the art of de-escalation. His ideals are at the heart of Elite’s core values of Discipline, Courtesy, Respect, and Care. These same ideals often lead the company into the midst of some of the most criminally active cities in America, where Oso continues to focus Elite on doing the highest good. During his prestigious tournament career Oso Tayari Casel ranked in the “Top Ten Black Belts in the USA” for over a decade. In the fall of 1980 he was S.T.A.R. Rated # 1 in Kung Fu and has won in some of the most prestigious competitive arenas in North America, such as: the Battle of Atlanta, Diamond Nationals, Superstar Nationals, AKA Grand Nationals, Top Ten National, Bare Knuckle Knock Out Championship and Nevada State Grand Championship. Oso Tayari Casel was one of the first to popularize ground fighting in competition. In 1975 he was the only non-Karate practitioner chosen by Chuck Norris to represent the USA in team fights. Recognition of his fighting and technical artistry garnered appearances on the covers of international martial arts publications including: Official Karate, Black Sports, Martial Arts Tradition, History and People, Inside Kung Fu, Defense Combat, Men of Steel Discipline, Black Heroes of the Martial Arts and The Official History of Karate in America: The Golden Age: 1968-1986. He was featured in two recent martial arts documentaries: Urban Dragons: Black and Latino Masters in the Chinese Martial Arts and The Black Kung Fu Experience for Public Broadcast Systems (PBS). He is inducted in the Action Martial Arts Magazine’s Hall of Honors & Spirits Awards: Golden Pioneer, World Professional Martial Arts Hall of Fame: Legend Kung Fu Fighter, United States Karate Hall of Fame: Grand Master, Golden Eagle Awards, Howard University Washington, DC, Chicago Martial Arts Lifetime Achievement Award, and many more. After retiring from competition he successfully co-founded and promoted the Triple “AAA” rated US Capitol Classics Martial Arts Tournament for seven years in the nation’s capital. Oso Tayari Casel has appeared in various martial arts films and is a frequent guest on local television and radio programs. He teaches and lectures throughout the country and internationally, and is the Master Teacher at Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy in Silver Spring, Md. Tayari Casel also performed as a professional magician at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA. Oso Tayari Casel began martial arts during the turbulent times of the civil rights era. For reasons as simple as being able to defend himself from neighborhood bullies or dealing with confrontations involving the extremist of society as well as self pride. Forty Seven (47) years later little did he recognize that his childhood hobby would take him around the world. During those travels he would have life changing experiences, visiting fascinating places, meeting intriguing people and sharing moments of despair, fatigue, sadness, frustration, joy and happiness. He never imagined on that early fall evening when he took his first class at the Southtown YMCA in Chicago, Illinois @ 66th and Union Avenue that his journey into the martial arts would leave a legacy around the world.
Black Belt Magazine Hall of Famer Willie “The Bam” Johnson
Martial Arts Leader Willie “The Bam” Johnson, is an award-winning martial arts teacher whose life mission is to help young adults and others become empowered, through the martials arts in order to make good life choices. He is a seven-time sport karate and kung fu world champion, a two-time All-American champion, and a nationally ranked Triple Crown martial arts champion. He teaches at The Bams Martial Arts Academy. Willie H. Johnson resides in Laurel Maryland. He can be contacted at www.pointmma.com Willie is passionate about empowering others, below are a list of activities he either founded or personally supports. POINT MMA Safety based Mixed Martial Arts Krazy Martial Athletic 1-minute fitness workout challenges Diva Grit Empowering women through fitness and self-defense Authentic Street Combat! Safety Safety and street self-defense WARRIOR MINDSET Helping people to find balance in live through martial arts CALL 2 ACTION Finding the next big martial arts action stars!
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen is an expert in life success, sports performance training, and international business coaching. He is a corporate educator for Duke Corporate Education and trains executives on how to break through barriers to achieve their next level of success. He is the President and Owner of Karate International of Durham, Inc. and Elite Corporate Coaching. He opened his martial arts school in 1980 in Durham, NC, running a successful school with hundreds of students under his leadership. Hosting one of the longest-running martial arts tournaments in North Carolina, the Durham Karate Open, established in 1979, Grandmaster Bowen is the former coach of the Duke University Taekwondo Team, former martial arts coach for the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill football team, former sports coordinator for the NCAS and the USOC Olympic Festival, inducted into numerous martial arts halls of fame for his martial arts achievements including the Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors 2018 Contribution in Publishing Award, for 2018 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Book. As an educator, he has been on the Duke University Physical Education staff for over 20 years, influencing thousands of students in mind-body training. Hanshi Bowen is also a professional bowler (PBA Member) and bowling instructor of physical education at Duke University. He has published over 20 books on personal development training, including the 2015 & 2015 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Autobiography Book, Unstoppable Confidence, Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Success Guide, Get Motivated – the Key to Success, Zen Mind-Body Meditation System – Meditation for Everyday Living, and others. https://www.amazon.com/Jessie-Bowen/e/B00M2HGDEG
The Black Dragon Ron Van Clief
Ron “The Black Dragon” Van Clief is a martial arts legend. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1943, where he started martial arts training in his early teens. Ron Van Clief served in the U.S. Marine from 1960 to 1965 with a tour in the Vietnam War in the year 1965. Following his military service, he became a New York City Transit Police Officer from 1965 to 1968. Ron Van Clief went on to become a five-time karate and kung fu world champion and a 15-time All-American Champion. He has competed in both full-contact and non-contact karate tournaments in New York and several national tournaments. His martial arts training began in the mid-1950s, which he later trained alongside Bruce Lee in Hong Kong and was nicknamed, “The Black Dragon”. Van Clief was a student of Goju-Ryu masters Peter Urban, Frank Ruiz, and Moses Powell, as well as WingTsun founder Leung Ting Modern Arnis (Remy Presas) Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Joe Moreira). On December 16, 1994 he competed in the 4th Ultimate Fighting Championship at age 51 against Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Royce Gracie. Van Clief is an author and creator of a number of instructional books and video recordings, as well as film choreographer and actor appearing in several films. Ron Van Clief continues to conduct seminars and attend training with his son in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. https://www.ronvanclief.com/
Founder of Combat Hapkido John Pellegrini
The founder of modern Combat Hapkido Grandmaster John Pellegrini has many accomplishments to his name and here is a list of them so that readers can learn much more about one of the leaders of the world of martial arts. 10th Dan Combat Hapkido – World Martial Arts Alliance, 9th Dan Hapkido – World Ki-Do Federation / Hanminjok Hapkido Association, Founder / President “International Combat Hapkido Federation” , • 9th Dan TaeKwonDo – Founder “Independent TaeKwonDo Association”, Founder / President of the “International Police Defensive Tactics Institute”, Founder / President of the “Military Combatives Association”, Founder / President of the “World Martial Arts Alliance” HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS 1988 USA Korean Karate Association “Instructor of the Year”, 1995 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Diamond Life Achievement” , 1996 – 1997 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Golden Life” – “Founder of the Year”, 1996 Florida Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer”, 1998 Martial Arts Masters, Pioneers & Legends Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 1998 – 2004 World Karate Union Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 1999 United Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2000 United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 2001 Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2003 United States Martial Artists Assoc. Hall of Fame “Golden Life Achievement”, 2003 Masters Hall of Fame “Silver Life Achievement”, 2003 Int. Assoc. of Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Outstanding Practitioner”, 2004 Inducted in the “TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame for Hapkido”, 2004 Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame “Instructor of the Year”, 2005 Budo Int. Magazine Hall of Fame “Legend Grandmaster”, 2006 Aaron Banks’ World Professional M. A. Hall of Fame: “World Renowned Hapkido Grandmaster”, 2007 Artes Marciales Magazine Hall of Fame “Martial Arts Pioneer”, 2007 Cinturon Negro Magazine (Spain) International Hall of Fame “Distinguished Founder”, 2008 Inducted “Hall da Fama Das Artes Marciais Brasileiras”, 2014 TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame “U.S. Grandmaster of the Year”, 2017 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer Award”, 2019 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Legends Award” MAJOR MEDIA FEATURES March 1990 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, 1991 Featured on “ESPY-TV: World of Martial Arts”, 1992 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” – Karate International Magazine, April 1994 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1995 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business” Magazine, October 1996 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo & Korean Combat Arts” Magazine (UK), July 1997 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1999 Cover feature “Martial Arts Professional” Magazine, October 1999 Article in the “Wall Street Journal”, September 2000 Cover feature “Artes Marciales” Magazine (Latin America), June 2001 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business.com” Magazine, September 2002 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 2003 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, Featured in the 2003 Edition of “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” Book, December 2004 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, February 2005 Cover feature “Action Martial Arts” Magazine, April 2005 Cover feature “Mundo Marcial” Magazine (Latin America), May 2005 Cover feature “Disciplinas” Magazine (Latin America), August 2006 Cover feature “Afghanistan Freedom Watch” Magazine, January 2009 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, September 2009 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, May 2012 Cover Feature TaeKwonDo Times Magazine, July 2015 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine. Federal Air Marshall Service – NATO Forces Europe – US Army 10th Mountain Division – Costa Rica Police SWAT Team – Colombia Air Force Anti-Terrorist Unit – US Office of Naval Intelligence – German Air Force & many other Police Depts. & Military Units around the World. https://www.dsihq.com/
Martial Artist and Fitness Pro Linda Josefsson “Lady Viking”
Linda Josefsson was featured on the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez to share her story, he is a little more about here and her journey to date. She is a 4 time national martial arts champion and acclaimed fitness trainer. “Many people aren’t aware of her accomplishments such as being a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under famed martial arts Billy Blanks as well as being a part of the original Tae Bo series. She holds a degree in economics as well as in fashion design, knowledge that she has integrated into her current training programs. Learn more about Linda Josefsson aka the “Lady Viking” Having struggled with eating disorders throughout her childhood and teen age years Linda used fitness to heal and put herself through a complete body transformation from a chunky teenage girl to a lean figure competitor. At the age of 47 she’s in better shape than ever proving that with hard work and a no quitting attitude age is nothing but a number. Her experience, knowledge, training and hardcore approach has inspired many and given her clients the tools to succeed. Linda “Lady Viking” Josefsson has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. She’s also has a 3rd degree black belt in martial arts. Linda Josefsson is a native of Sweden. She studied Economics in college and has a degree in Fashion Design from Boras University in Sweden. Growing up Linda was competitive in several sports including track & field, horse back riding, soccer and cross country skiing. She later moved to France to pursue a career as a professional horse trainer in Western riding. In 1990 Linda moved to California as an exchange student and during this time she was introduced to 7-time World Karate Champion and Tae-Bo creator Billy Blanks. It was here she found her deep passion for martial arts and the place she would call “home” for the next 29 years. Linda was always a natural athlete and after only 2 years she received her black belt from Mr. Blanks. All the hard work and countless hours of training later resulted in 4 National Championships as well as a tournament win in amateur boxing. A shoulder injury prevented Linda from doing further competitive boxing but instead she’s been sharing her skills and knowledge teaching martial arts. Today Linda is a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a very accomplished personal trainer, corporate trainer and group exercise instructor. She is also an NPC figure competitor. She’s been teaching at several gyms in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley area and has devoted her life to helping people accomplish their fitness goals. www.ladyvikingfitness.com https://www.instagram.com/swedish_vikinglady/
Singer, Actress and Fitness Trainer Dawn Derow
On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with Dawn Derow, a very talented singer who focuses on cabaret style music but is diverse and can cross over into rock, jazz and opera. She is also a fitness trainer, actress and writer. Learn more about her on the show. www.ucwradio.com More About Dawn Derow A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Dawn grew up in Eastham, MA and began pursuing her performing career in her childhood. She graduated from the Boston Conservatory with a Bachelor’s in Music: Vocal Performance & Opera Emphasis, achieving the second highest vocal score in her class. After graduation, Dawn performed in operas and musicals around the world, as well as a guest entertainer aboard international cruise ships, displaying an uncanny ability to transition from singing a Puccini aria to a jazzy torch song. Cabaret Awards & Performances In 2008, Dawn, having lived in New York City for several years, began to pursue a Cabaret career. Over the past 12 years, she has performed in prestigious venues, including the Weill Center at Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, The Laurie Beechman Theater, Don’t Tell Mama, The Friars Club, the Bitter End, The Cutting Room, Carroll Place, and most recently The Green Room 42. Dawn used her songwriting and guitar abilities throughout her Cabaret performances, leading to high praise for her shows. Dawn soon after began reeling in the awards. Her CD Music 4 TWO with award-winning guitarist Sean Harkness earned her a 2014 nomination for “Best CD” from the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs (MAC). In 2015, Dawn won her first MAC award for her work in the duo show REVOLUTION with Kathleen France. In 2016, Dawn employed her formidable opera singing skills in her solo show LEGIT: A Classical Cabaret. She received a Bistro Award for “Outstanding Vocalist” for her performance. Two years later, Dawn won the 2018 MAC Award for “Best Female Vocalist” for her critically acclaimed show, My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her director, Jeff Harner, also won “Best Director” from the Bistro and MAC awards. Dawn will be releasing an album of her songs from MY SHIP: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Dawn’s most recent show, The House That Built Me, played to packed audiences at the Laurie Beechman Theater. Based on her love for her father’s vast record collection that Dawn grew up listening to, she weaves a story of how these songs inspired and helped her blossom into the multi-faceted performer she is today. The setlist includes classic pop hits and Broadway show tunes from legendary performers such as Judy Collins, Jacques Brel, Crosby Still Nash & Young, Rosemary Clooney, as well as contemporary artists P!nk and Miranda Lambert. The House That Built Me received rave reviews from the press, which you can read below. In the Fall of 2019, Dawn sang in the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Convention at Rose Hall at Lincoln Center. You can view Dawn’s performance of “White Cliffs of Dover” on her YouTube Channel. Dawn’s next solo cabaret production, Gypsy In My Soul: The Songs of Eydie Gorme, was delayed due to COVID-19. Stay tuned for updated performance dates coming soon. Dawn will be releasing her album of songs from My Ship: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Health and Fitness When Dawn isn’t performing, her main focus has been on her work in the area of health, fitness, and body healing. In 2013, Dawn launched her company Divine Body Balance. Her company helps clients using her expertise as a NASM-certified personal trainer, AFFA group fitness instructor, Yoga Alliance instructor, Thai Massage practitioner, mobility health coach, and as Rock Tape: Cupping, Kinesiology taping practitioner. Whether it’s through song or body work, Dawn’s mission is to connect with and heal the human mind, body, and soul. https://www.dawnderow.com/
HGTV, DIY Star Jason Cameron
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-17-UCWRadio_JasonCameron_111720.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the opportunity to speak with HGTV and DIY star Jason Cameron, known for Man Caves, Desperate Landscapes and so much more. We talk about his fitness days, his background in construction, his mentoring of youth, his great relationship with his wife as well as Tony Siragusa, Charlie Sheen and Snoop Dogg and much more . make sure to follow him on social media @jcamerontv Jason Cameron is an American television presenter and actor most notable for his role on the TLC reality show, While You Were Out and is currently hosting Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes for the DIY Network. Some more about Jason Cameron Jason moved to New York City to pursue an acting career, he had his heart and mind set on it. He landed a few minor roles at that time from Sex and the City, The Guiding Light to All My Children. Being ambitious and not one to hold back he jumped right into print modeling in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Maxim and GQ. While in pursuit of his dream, Jason was always drawn to carpentry and construction which started at a very young age. he worked as a construction worker after college to make ends meet. In 2003, he auditioned as an on-screen carpenter for the TLC renovation program, While You Were Out. He got the job and joined the cast in season two, staying on until the end of the show’s run in 2006. After the show’s end, Cameron became a licensed contractor and was approached by DIY Network to host their landscape makeover show Desperate Landscapes in 2007. Since then, he has also been hosting Man Caves and Project Xtreme for the network. On the health and fitness front Jason Cameron is a certified personal trainer, specializing in strength and conditioning. He has competed in numerous bodybuilding competitions and has worked as a fitness model, appearing in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Muscle Media. He is currently a representative and the Fitness Expert for Men’s Fitness.
Acclaimed Writer and Director Sheldon Lettich
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-26-PowerHour_SheldonLettich_04292021.mp3 Sheldon Lettich was born in New York City, but moved to California at a young age and grew up in the Los Angeles area. After graduation from high school he spent nearly four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving as a radio operator in South Vietnam with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, and later with the elite 1st Force Reconnaissance Company based at Camp Pendleton, California. He worked his way through college as a professional photographer, and attended at the American Film Institute’s Center for Advanced Film Studies as a Cinematography Fellow. Although his initial career goal was to become a director of photography, at the AFI his interests branched out to encompass writing and directing, which became the two fields where he found eventual success in the entertainment business. Based partly upon his experiences in Vietnam, he co-authored the renowned play, “Tracers,” with a group of Vietnam Vets who were also aspiring actors. First performed on July 4th, 1980 at the Odyssey Theater in Los Angeles, the play then traveled to Joseph Papp’s Public Theater in New York City, the Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago (directed by Gary Sinise), the Royal Court Theater in London, and numerous venues worldwide. It received both Drama Desk Awards and L.A. Drama Critics Awards, and is still being performed throughout the world. Around the same time, Lettich was writing numerous spec screenplays. One of these, co-written with Josh Becker, subsequently became the cult classic, Thou Shalt Not Kill… Except (1985), which starred Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi. Eventually his screenplays began attracting the attention of producers in Hollywood. He co-authored the Cold War drama, Russkies (1987), which was the first starring role for a young Joaquin Phoenix. Around the same time he wrote the screenplay for the now-classic martial arts film, Bloodsport (1988), which launched the career of Jean-Claude Van Damme. One of his Vietnam-based screenplays caught the eye of Sylvester Stallone, which resulted in an overall deal with Stallone’s White Eagle Productions, and led to him co-writing Rambo III (1988) with Stallone. The success of Bloodsport not only turned Jean-Claude Van Damme into an international action star, but it also forged a long and ongoing friendship with the man who wrote it. Van Damme helped to launch Lettich’s directing career with the film, Lionheart (1990) , which became Van Damme’s first movie to be released theatrically by a major U.S. studio. This was followed by Double Impact (1991), which was filmed in Hong Kong, with Lettich directing Van Damme in a challenging double role as twin brothers seeking revenge for their parents’ murder. Lettich next discovered Mark Dacascos, who made his starring debut in Only the Strong (1993), a film that introduced the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira to international audiences. He also directed Dolph Lundgren in The Last Patrol (2000), and Daniel Bernhardt in Perfect Target (1997). Continuing his long association with Van Damme, Lettich was a writer and a producer on the historical French Foreign Legion film, Legionnaire (1998), starring Van Damme and shot on location in Morocco. And he directed The Order (2001), an action-thriller starring Van Damme and Charlton Heston, which was filmed on locations in Israel and Bulgaria. His most recent directorial effort, which he also co-wrote, is The Hard Corps (2006), an urban action-romance. Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme and Vivica A. Fox, the film was shot on locations around Vancouver, Canada, and on sound stages in Romania, and was financed and released worldwide by Sony Pictures Entertainment. His latest movie is Max (2015), which he co-wrote with his long-time friend, Boaz Yakin. The movie was directed by Boaz and produced by MGM. It was released nationwide in the USA by Warner Brothers on June 26th, 2015, and by the end of the summer had grossed $43 million. The novelization sold over 100,000 copies. A sequel has been completed. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0504802?ref_=nmbio_mbio http://www.sheldonlettich.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SheldonLettichOfficial/
Former World Martial Arts Champion and Actress Christine Bannon-Rodrigues
https://ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_christinebannonrodrigues_interviewucw.mp3 When Christine Bannon-Rodrigues first bowed in she was 13 years old. At the time the Rhode Island teenager never realized that she would one-day reign supreme as one of the super stars in the world of martial arts. Christine studied Kenpo and Wu shu, earning her black belt at age 17. She quickly became the person to beat in fighting, forms and weapons. A formidable competitor Christine was a triple threat wherever she went. Her skill as a fighter was proven time and time again, and in forms and weapons Christine was unstoppable. In 1991 Christine astounded the martial arts world by becoming a Triple Crown winner at the WAKO World Championships in England. “I won three gold medals in forms, fighting and weapons,” Christine recalled. “Everyone thought it was a freak occurrence and that I was just lucky. That got me worked up so I decided to prove my critics wrong, so in 1993 I did it again.” After winning her second Triple Crown she turned her talents and efforts into becoming a TV and movie star. Martial arts legend and action choreographer Pat Johnson hired Christine to double the star in “The Next Karate Kid.” This led to roles in Mortal Kombat, WMAC Masters where she starred as “Lady Lightning and she stunt doubled Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl) in “Batman and Robin.”Christine has also been featured on the cover of every major martial arts magazine in the world and she has written and starred in more than seven instruction videotapes. She is also the darling of the trading card set, being featured in the 1992 John Paul Mitchell National Karate Team Premier edition, Karate Kards, Sport Karate Champions, Martial Arts Masters Trading Cards, Premier Edition and the International Card Collection of Athletes medallion collection. With an eye on the future, Christine says that the Black Belt Registry will be of great benefit to all martial artists, “The access it gives us (martial artists) to everything from training tapes to gear and so much more is amazing,” she says. “One of the things I use it for is finding authentic Chinese weapons. The Internet and the Black Belt Registry is going to take martial arts to its next level.” Christine has graced the cover of almost every major martial arts magazine in the world, her relentless pursuit of working with the youth of martial arts. “Christine is one of the true gems of the world of Martial Arts, her and her husband Don have contributed so much over the decades and continue to do so.” Louis Velazquez
Former World Kickboxing Champion, Actress and Stuntwoman Kathy Long
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2021-10-25-PowerHour_KathyLong_03312021.mp3 Although retired from the ring for several years now, Kathy Long is still one of the most recognized woman in kickboxing today! She is still active in the sport from doing special appearances and giving seminars to serving as an event official. She’s also been in several movies as well. During her career she won 5 World Kickboxing Titles. Kathy began her studies in the martial arts with Aikido and has also studied in arts such as Shorin Ryu Karate & Kung Fu. She currently holds 4 different Black Belts in 4 different styles (Kung Fu San Soo, Aikido, Kung Fu and Shorinryu Karate) including a Masters Rank in Kung Fu San Soo. She is an expert in handling firearms, knives, swords and all other weaponry. As a Professional Kickboxer Kathy has been known as as a well conditioned and hardened fighter. She was a very successful kickboxer winning a total of 5 World Championships and they include: 2, KICK World Titles1, WKA World Title1, ISKA World Title1, WMAC World Title where she pummeled Japanese fighter Kyoko Kamikaze in Las Vegas, breaking her ribs and bruising her kidneys as Kathy walked away with (at the time) the highest purse ever paid to a Female Kickboxer of $20,000. Her ring career included wins over Ramona Gatto,Bonnie Canino, Japanese star Kyoko “Kamikaze” Miyazaki, French champion Dani Rocard, Canadian champion Nora Daigle and two defeats over Denise Taylor. Her only loss as a professional kickboxer (18-1-1/5) came in a Muay Thai match with Britain’s Lisa Howarth at Pickett’s Lock near London in February 1990. There was to have been a rematch later that year and Kathy trained in the Thai style with that in mind. But then Lisa got badly cut in a loss to French savate champion Nancy Joseph, and had to cancel. A two time Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee (Woman of the Year 1991 & Full Contact Fighter of the Year 1992), she retired from kickboxing in the mid 1990s choosing to concentrate on her film career and other interests. She has appeared on more than 35 martial arts magazines covers in the United States, Europe and Asia. Her work in the movie industry includes stunt work and fight choreography: She was Michelle Pfeiffer’s stunt double in “Batman Returns” (1992) and fight choreographer for the “Death Becomes Her” (1992). She has appeared on several television shows, including “Walker, Texas Ranger” with Chuck Norris. She has written several monthly columns, titled “Long Shots” for Black Belt Magazine and has also appeared in movies such as Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997), Under the Gun (1995), The Stranger (1995) Natural Born Killers (1994), Knights (1993) and Rage and Honor (1992). However, Kathy has a long list of other accomplishments as well. She has appeared on numerous television shows and in publications ranging from People magazine to a full-color layout in the National Enquirer. She is also an accomplished musician who plays proficiently musical instruments such as the Harp, Violin and Guitar. She also wrote a book entitled “No! No! No!: A Woman’s Guide to Personal Defense and Street Safety “( Paperback / Berkley Publishing Group / October 1993) along with Kickboxing Fitness Videos such as, “Kickboxing for Fun & Fitness” & “Championship Kickboxing with Kathy Long – “Round 1” Kathy is also a model and spokesperson for Century Martial Arts Equipment.
Martial Artist, Former WWE Wrestler & Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller
Former WCW & WWE star, Martial Artist and Actor Ernest “The Cat” Miller is beyond a wrestler, he is first and foremost a true martial artist. He has secured a recurring role on the new MacGyver TV series, has other film projects in motion and is launching his professional point fight league. Also on the show is actor and martial artist Vincent Cecere, he has a number of projects in the works that can’t be mentioned yet but they are sure to be awesome films. He does a lot of giving back that we hope to touch on next week. Miller made his World Championship Wrestling (WCW) debut when he saved Glacier from a two-on-one attack by Wrath and Mortis at the 1997 Slamboree pay-per-view. Initially thought as just a fan who had jumped the railing, the WCW commentators then realized that this was no ordinary man and he was in fact the three-time karate champion Ernest Miller. Glacier and Ernest Miller quickly became tag team partners in their feud with Mortis and Wrath. After Glacier turned on Miller, Ernest left him and became a villain with Sonny Onoo as his manager. It was during this time that Miller’s popularity heightened. As a villain, Miller adopted an arrogant, Muhammad Ali-like trash-talking personality, calling himself “The Greatest” and gloating that he could beat anybody within two minutes, which he often did using his signature kicks. It was also around this time that Ernest began wearing ruby slippers in the ring and dancing in a James Brown-esque fashion to celebrate his victories. He would claim on Nitro that he knew the actual James Brown, leading to a pay-per-view “dance-off” between Miller and Brown, who had been brought in specially. Miller even went as far promoting his own instructional, karate home video with a pseudo infomercial. This served as a comedic parody to Billy Blanks’ Tae Bo exercise videos which were quite popular at the time. Miller and Onoo also did comedy duo routines similar to Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan’s characters from the film Rush Hour. Miller then began a minor feud with Kaz Hayashi, as Onoo has been previously Hayashi’s manager and had left him to manage Miller. Ernest won several matches over Hayashi with Onoo’s help, and also enlisted Perry Saturn as his ally. However, Saturn suffered many losses against inferior opponents due to Miller’s botched interference, so the two faced off at Starrcade, where Saturn won. Miller continued coming out and challenging the fans, the wrestlers, and anyone else to try and take him out, feuding with Scott Norton. For a time, he started coming out with the snow machine and music of Glacier, which Onoo had “purchased”, but it was short-lived, and he soon returned to his James Brown music. In March 1999, Miller and Onoo attacked fellow martial artist Jerry Flynn, with Ernest cutting off Flynn’s ponytail as a sign of disrespect. They all faced off in Uncensored in a handicap match, but Flyinn defeated them both. Miller bounced back after some time, getting a win over Scott Norton after hitting him with a crowbar. He and Norton were scheduled to wrestle in The Great American Bash, but Norton was pulled out for health problems and replaced with Horace Hogan, who Miller defeated after kicking him with a steel-tipped red dancing shoe. In June 1999, Miller had a dancing contest with Disco Inferno, who he attacked in jealously over the fans’s attention. They fought in Bash at the Beach in a “dance match” with the stipulation that the loser could not dance anymore (though this stipulation was removed at Bash at the Beach), with Miller winning thanks to Onoo. The Cat’s next opponent would be Buff Bagwell, who became famous by doing an impersonation of Miller with a bald cap and black face paint. The two met at Road Wild, but this time Onoo’s help backfired when he accidentally hit the wrong man with a briefcase, making Miller lose the match. After that, the two broke up and Onoo left WCW.
Martial Arts Leader Oso Tayari Casel
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2015-05-15_tayari_casel_power_hour_12182012.mp3 Oso Tayari Casel is a humanitarian dedicated to improving the world one community at a time. His many cultural and philanthropic missions to several countries around the world fostered his cognizance of impactful community involvement. Throughout the years, Oso advanced his service-oriented endeavors in the United States as a youth counselor, community engagement consultant, and most-notably as a world-renowned Martial Artist. His awareness of how Martial Arts and cultural involvement can transform communities is specifically harnessed within the Hospital Safety and Security Industry through Elite Security Services & Solutions, LLC. Oso Tayari Casel is the founder and director of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy, Inc.; an institution that researches, demonstrates and spreads the contribution that Africa and China have given to the international martial arts community, while simultaneously furthering the appreciation of contemporary and traditional African and Chinese culture. His studies include cultural and humanitarian missions to Africa, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, The Netherlands, and Taiwan, the Republic of China, the arts of Kupigana Ngumi, Shaolin and Tai Chi Chuan with the Directors of the Pan Afrikan Martial Arts Federation. One of the strongest aspects of the Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy is its dedication to community development, health and well being. Oso is an instructor at several elementary schools in the DC public school system. Over several decades he has worked as consultant for the Substance Abuse Services of the Department of Corrections for the Lorton Prison and Correctional Treatment Facilities. He has served as the Primary Substance Abuse Counselor for a federal program at a juvenile maximum-security prison and has worked with the District of Columbia Government’s Department of Human Services at group homes for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. In addition, he worked as a consultant to CASA Community Health, (Baltimore) a national prevention project focused on public housing developments funded by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. Oso is a Marital Arts Grand Master and utilizes his more than 55 years of experience as a Martial Arts Hall-of-Famer and instructor to lead Elite’s officers in the art of de-escalation. His ideals are at the heart of Elite’s core values of Discipline, Courtesy, Respect, and Care. These same ideals often lead the company into the midst of some of the most criminally active cities in America, where Oso continues to focus Elite on doing the highest good. During his prestigious tournament career Oso Tayari Casel ranked in the “Top Ten Black Belts in the USA” for over a decade. In the fall of 1980 he was S.T.A.R. Rated # 1 in Kung Fu and has won in some of the most prestigious competitive arenas in North America, such as: the Battle of Atlanta, Diamond Nationals, Superstar Nationals, AKA Grand Nationals, Top Ten National, Bare Knuckle Knock Out Championship and Nevada State Grand Championship. Oso Tayari Casel was one of the first to popularize ground fighting in competition. In 1975 he was the only non-Karate practitioner chosen by Chuck Norris to represent the USA in team fights. Recognition of his fighting and technical artistry garnered appearances on the covers of international martial arts publications including: Official Karate, Black Sports, Martial Arts Tradition, History and People, Inside Kung Fu, Defense Combat, Men of Steel Discipline, Black Heroes of the Martial Arts and The Official History of Karate in America: The Golden Age: 1968-1986. He was featured in two recent martial arts documentaries: Urban Dragons: Black and Latino Masters in the Chinese Martial Arts and The Black Kung Fu Experience for Public Broadcast Systems (PBS). He is inducted in the Action Martial Arts Magazine’s Hall of Honors & Spirits Awards: Golden Pioneer, World Professional Martial Arts Hall of Fame: Legend Kung Fu Fighter, United States Karate Hall of Fame: Grand Master, Golden Eagle Awards, Howard University Washington, DC, Chicago Martial Arts Lifetime Achievement Award, and many more. After retiring from competition he successfully co-founded and promoted the Triple “AAA” rated US Capitol Classics Martial Arts Tournament for seven years in the nation’s capital. Oso Tayari Casel has appeared in various martial arts films and is a frequent guest on local television and radio programs. He teaches and lectures throughout the country and internationally, and is the Master Teacher at Tayari Casel Martial Arts Academy in Silver Spring, Md. Tayari Casel also performed as a professional magician at the world famous Magic Castle in Hollywood, CA. Oso Tayari Casel began martial arts during the turbulent times of the civil rights era. For reasons as simple as being able to defend himself from neighborhood bullies or dealing with confrontations involving the extremist of society as well as self pride. Forty Seven (47) years later little did he recognize that his childhood hobby would take him around the world. During those travels he would have life changing experiences, visiting fascinating places, meeting intriguing people and sharing moments of despair, fatigue, sadness, frustration, joy and happiness. He never imagined on that early fall evening when he took his first class at the Southtown YMCA in Chicago, Illinois @ 66th and Union Avenue that his journey into the martial arts would leave a legacy around the world.
Black Belt Magazine Hall of Famer Willie “The Bam” Johnson
Martial Arts Leader Willie “The Bam” Johnson, is an award-winning martial arts teacher whose life mission is to help young adults and others become empowered, through the martials arts in order to make good life choices. He is a seven-time sport karate and kung fu world champion, a two-time All-American champion, and a nationally ranked Triple Crown martial arts champion. He teaches at The Bams Martial Arts Academy. Willie H. Johnson resides in Laurel Maryland. He can be contacted at www.pointmma.com Willie is passionate about empowering others, below are a list of activities he either founded or personally supports. POINT MMA Safety based Mixed Martial Arts Krazy Martial Athletic 1-minute fitness workout challenges Diva Grit Empowering women through fitness and self-defense Authentic Street Combat! Safety Safety and street self-defense WARRIOR MINDSET Helping people to find balance in live through martial arts CALL 2 ACTION Finding the next big martial arts action stars!
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen
Grandmaster Jessie Bowen is an expert in life success, sports performance training, and international business coaching. He is a corporate educator for Duke Corporate Education and trains executives on how to break through barriers to achieve their next level of success. He is the President and Owner of Karate International of Durham, Inc. and Elite Corporate Coaching. He opened his martial arts school in 1980 in Durham, NC, running a successful school with hundreds of students under his leadership. Hosting one of the longest-running martial arts tournaments in North Carolina, the Durham Karate Open, established in 1979, Grandmaster Bowen is the former coach of the Duke University Taekwondo Team, former martial arts coach for the University of North Carolina of Chapel Hill football team, former sports coordinator for the NCAS and the USOC Olympic Festival, inducted into numerous martial arts halls of fame for his martial arts achievements including the Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Honors 2018 Contribution in Publishing Award, for 2018 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Book. As an educator, he has been on the Duke University Physical Education staff for over 20 years, influencing thousands of students in mind-body training. Hanshi Bowen is also a professional bowler (PBA Member) and bowling instructor of physical education at Duke University. He has published over 20 books on personal development training, including the 2015 & 2015 Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Autobiography Book, Unstoppable Confidence, Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Success Guide, Get Motivated – the Key to Success, Zen Mind-Body Meditation System – Meditation for Everyday Living, and others. https://www.amazon.com/Jessie-Bowen/e/B00M2HGDEG
The Black Dragon Ron Van Clief
Ron “The Black Dragon” Van Clief is a martial arts legend. Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1943, where he started martial arts training in his early teens. Ron Van Clief served in the U.S. Marine from 1960 to 1965 with a tour in the Vietnam War in the year 1965. Following his military service, he became a New York City Transit Police Officer from 1965 to 1968. Ron Van Clief went on to become a five-time karate and kung fu world champion and a 15-time All-American Champion. He has competed in both full-contact and non-contact karate tournaments in New York and several national tournaments. His martial arts training began in the mid-1950s, which he later trained alongside Bruce Lee in Hong Kong and was nicknamed, “The Black Dragon”. Van Clief was a student of Goju-Ryu masters Peter Urban, Frank Ruiz, and Moses Powell, as well as WingTsun founder Leung Ting Modern Arnis (Remy Presas) Brazilian jiu-jitsu (Joe Moreira). On December 16, 1994 he competed in the 4th Ultimate Fighting Championship at age 51 against Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion Royce Gracie. Van Clief is an author and creator of a number of instructional books and video recordings, as well as film choreographer and actor appearing in several films. Ron Van Clief continues to conduct seminars and attend training with his son in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. https://www.ronvanclief.com/
Founder of Combat Hapkido John Pellegrini
The founder of modern Combat Hapkido Grandmaster John Pellegrini has many accomplishments to his name and here is a list of them so that readers can learn much more about one of the leaders of the world of martial arts. 10th Dan Combat Hapkido – World Martial Arts Alliance, 9th Dan Hapkido – World Ki-Do Federation / Hanminjok Hapkido Association, Founder / President “International Combat Hapkido Federation” , • 9th Dan TaeKwonDo – Founder “Independent TaeKwonDo Association”, Founder / President of the “International Police Defensive Tactics Institute”, Founder / President of the “Military Combatives Association”, Founder / President of the “World Martial Arts Alliance” HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS 1988 USA Korean Karate Association “Instructor of the Year”, 1995 World Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Diamond Life Achievement” , 1996 – 1997 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Golden Life” – “Founder of the Year”, 1996 Florida Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer”, 1998 Martial Arts Masters, Pioneers & Legends Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 1998 – 2004 World Karate Union Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 1999 United Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2000 United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Founder of the Year”, 2001 Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame “Outstanding Contribution to the Martial Arts”, 2003 United States Martial Artists Assoc. Hall of Fame “Golden Life Achievement”, 2003 Masters Hall of Fame “Silver Life Achievement”, 2003 Int. Assoc. of Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Outstanding Practitioner”, 2004 Inducted in the “TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame for Hapkido”, 2004 Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame “Instructor of the Year”, 2005 Budo Int. Magazine Hall of Fame “Legend Grandmaster”, 2006 Aaron Banks’ World Professional M. A. Hall of Fame: “World Renowned Hapkido Grandmaster”, 2007 Artes Marciales Magazine Hall of Fame “Martial Arts Pioneer”, 2007 Cinturon Negro Magazine (Spain) International Hall of Fame “Distinguished Founder”, 2008 Inducted “Hall da Fama Das Artes Marciais Brasileiras”, 2014 TaeKwonDo Times Magazine Hall of Fame “U.S. Grandmaster of the Year”, 2017 WHFSC Martial Arts Hall of Fame “Pioneer Award”, 2019 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts Legends Award” MAJOR MEDIA FEATURES March 1990 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, 1991 Featured on “ESPY-TV: World of Martial Arts”, 1992 “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” – Karate International Magazine, April 1994 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1995 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business” Magazine, October 1996 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo & Korean Combat Arts” Magazine (UK), July 1997 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 1999 Cover feature “Martial Arts Professional” Magazine, October 1999 Article in the “Wall Street Journal”, September 2000 Cover feature “Artes Marciales” Magazine (Latin America), June 2001 Cover feature “Martial Arts Business.com” Magazine, September 2002 Cover feature “TaeKwonDo Times” Magazine, June 2003 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, Featured in the 2003 Edition of “Who’s Who in the Martial Arts” Book, December 2004 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, February 2005 Cover feature “Action Martial Arts” Magazine, April 2005 Cover feature “Mundo Marcial” Magazine (Latin America), May 2005 Cover feature “Disciplinas” Magazine (Latin America), August 2006 Cover feature “Afghanistan Freedom Watch” Magazine, January 2009 Cover feature “Black Belt” Magazine, September 2009 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine, May 2012 Cover Feature TaeKwonDo Times Magazine, July 2015 Cover feature “Budo International” Magazine. Federal Air Marshall Service – NATO Forces Europe – US Army 10th Mountain Division – Costa Rica Police SWAT Team – Colombia Air Force Anti-Terrorist Unit – US Office of Naval Intelligence – German Air Force & many other Police Depts. & Military Units around the World. https://www.dsihq.com/
Martial Artist and Fitness Pro Linda Josefsson “Lady Viking”
Linda Josefsson was featured on the UCW Radio Show with Louis Velazquez to share her story, he is a little more about here and her journey to date. She is a 4 time national martial arts champion and acclaimed fitness trainer. “Many people aren’t aware of her accomplishments such as being a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do under famed martial arts Billy Blanks as well as being a part of the original Tae Bo series. She holds a degree in economics as well as in fashion design, knowledge that she has integrated into her current training programs. Learn more about Linda Josefsson aka the “Lady Viking” Having struggled with eating disorders throughout her childhood and teen age years Linda used fitness to heal and put herself through a complete body transformation from a chunky teenage girl to a lean figure competitor. At the age of 47 she’s in better shape than ever proving that with hard work and a no quitting attitude age is nothing but a number. Her experience, knowledge, training and hardcore approach has inspired many and given her clients the tools to succeed. Linda “Lady Viking” Josefsson has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. She’s also has a 3rd degree black belt in martial arts. Linda Josefsson is a native of Sweden. She studied Economics in college and has a degree in Fashion Design from Boras University in Sweden. Growing up Linda was competitive in several sports including track & field, horse back riding, soccer and cross country skiing. She later moved to France to pursue a career as a professional horse trainer in Western riding. In 1990 Linda moved to California as an exchange student and during this time she was introduced to 7-time World Karate Champion and Tae-Bo creator Billy Blanks. It was here she found her deep passion for martial arts and the place she would call “home” for the next 29 years. Linda was always a natural athlete and after only 2 years she received her black belt from Mr. Blanks. All the hard work and countless hours of training later resulted in 4 National Championships as well as a tournament win in amateur boxing. A shoulder injury prevented Linda from doing further competitive boxing but instead she’s been sharing her skills and knowledge teaching martial arts. Today Linda is a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a very accomplished personal trainer, corporate trainer and group exercise instructor. She is also an NPC figure competitor. She’s been teaching at several gyms in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley area and has devoted her life to helping people accomplish their fitness goals. www.ladyvikingfitness.com https://www.instagram.com/swedish_vikinglady/
Singer, Actress and Fitness Trainer Dawn Derow
On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we are talking with Dawn Derow, a very talented singer who focuses on cabaret style music but is diverse and can cross over into rock, jazz and opera. She is also a fitness trainer, actress and writer. Learn more about her on the show. www.ucwradio.com More About Dawn Derow A New Yorker by way of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Dawn grew up in Eastham, MA and began pursuing her performing career in her childhood. She graduated from the Boston Conservatory with a Bachelor’s in Music: Vocal Performance & Opera Emphasis, achieving the second highest vocal score in her class. After graduation, Dawn performed in operas and musicals around the world, as well as a guest entertainer aboard international cruise ships, displaying an uncanny ability to transition from singing a Puccini aria to a jazzy torch song. Cabaret Awards & Performances In 2008, Dawn, having lived in New York City for several years, began to pursue a Cabaret career. Over the past 12 years, she has performed in prestigious venues, including the Weill Center at Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, The Laurie Beechman Theater, Don’t Tell Mama, The Friars Club, the Bitter End, The Cutting Room, Carroll Place, and most recently The Green Room 42. Dawn used her songwriting and guitar abilities throughout her Cabaret performances, leading to high praise for her shows. Dawn soon after began reeling in the awards. Her CD Music 4 TWO with award-winning guitarist Sean Harkness earned her a 2014 nomination for “Best CD” from the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs (MAC). In 2015, Dawn won her first MAC award for her work in the duo show REVOLUTION with Kathleen France. In 2016, Dawn employed her formidable opera singing skills in her solo show LEGIT: A Classical Cabaret. She received a Bistro Award for “Outstanding Vocalist” for her performance. Two years later, Dawn won the 2018 MAC Award for “Best Female Vocalist” for her critically acclaimed show, My Ship: Songs from 1941. Her director, Jeff Harner, also won “Best Director” from the Bistro and MAC awards. Dawn will be releasing an album of her songs from MY SHIP: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Dawn’s most recent show, The House That Built Me, played to packed audiences at the Laurie Beechman Theater. Based on her love for her father’s vast record collection that Dawn grew up listening to, she weaves a story of how these songs inspired and helped her blossom into the multi-faceted performer she is today. The setlist includes classic pop hits and Broadway show tunes from legendary performers such as Judy Collins, Jacques Brel, Crosby Still Nash & Young, Rosemary Clooney, as well as contemporary artists P!nk and Miranda Lambert. The House That Built Me received rave reviews from the press, which you can read below. In the Fall of 2019, Dawn sang in the Mabel Mercer Foundation’s Cabaret Convention at Rose Hall at Lincoln Center. You can view Dawn’s performance of “White Cliffs of Dover” on her YouTube Channel. Dawn’s next solo cabaret production, Gypsy In My Soul: The Songs of Eydie Gorme, was delayed due to COVID-19. Stay tuned for updated performance dates coming soon. Dawn will be releasing her album of songs from My Ship: Songs from 1941 in the summer of 2021. Health and Fitness When Dawn isn’t performing, her main focus has been on her work in the area of health, fitness, and body healing. In 2013, Dawn launched her company Divine Body Balance. Her company helps clients using her expertise as a NASM-certified personal trainer, AFFA group fitness instructor, Yoga Alliance instructor, Thai Massage practitioner, mobility health coach, and as Rock Tape: Cupping, Kinesiology taping practitioner. Whether it’s through song or body work, Dawn’s mission is to connect with and heal the human mind, body, and soul. https://www.dawnderow.com/
HGTV, DIY Star Jason Cameron
https://www.ucwradio.com/podcast/media/2020-11-17-UCWRadio_JasonCameron_111720.mp3 On this episode of the UCW Radio Show we had the opportunity to speak with HGTV and DIY star Jason Cameron, known for Man Caves, Desperate Landscapes and so much more. We talk about his fitness days, his background in construction, his mentoring of youth, his great relationship with his wife as well as Tony Siragusa, Charlie Sheen and Snoop Dogg and much more . make sure to follow him on social media @jcamerontv Jason Cameron is an American television presenter and actor most notable for his role on the TLC reality show, While You Were Out and is currently hosting Man Caves and Desperate Landscapes for the DIY Network. Some more about Jason Cameron Jason moved to New York City to pursue an acting career, he had his heart and mind set on it. He landed a few minor roles at that time from Sex and the City, The Guiding Light to All My Children. Being ambitious and not one to hold back he jumped right into print modeling in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Maxim and GQ. While in pursuit of his dream, Jason was always drawn to carpentry and construction which started at a very young age. he worked as a construction worker after college to make ends meet. In 2003, he auditioned as an on-screen carpenter for the TLC renovation program, While You Were Out. He got the job and joined the cast in season two, staying on until the end of the show’s run in 2006. After the show’s end, Cameron became a licensed contractor and was approached by DIY Network to host their landscape makeover show Desperate Landscapes in 2007. Since then, he has also been hosting Man Caves and Project Xtreme for the network. On the health and fitness front Jason Cameron is a certified personal trainer, specializing in strength and conditioning. He has competed in numerous bodybuilding competitions and has worked as a fitness model, appearing in Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Muscle Media. He is currently a representative and the Fitness Expert for Men’s Fitness.