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Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of a reality TV show? Get ready for an eye-opening journey as we chat with Iyanna McNeely, a former participant on Netflix's "Love is Blind." Iyanna takes us through her incredible transition from a career in social services to the unexpected twists and turns of reality TV. Influenced by her love for "Married at First Sight," Iyanna shares her rollercoaster ride of finding love on screen in your 20s.

Peek behind the curtain of reality TV production with Iyanna’s candid reflections. Expect grueling schedules, early mornings, late nights, and the emotional ups and downs of being in the public eye. She debunks common misconceptions, revealing how participants often discover the final edited episodes along with the audience—complete with unexpected emotional reactions. Together, we also dream up funny and exciting future ventures, like becoming commentators for obstacle course shows, and reflect on the unpredictable nature of life and reality TV. Tune in for an episode packed with authenticity, humor, and insights into the real world behind the reality TV facade.

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Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree

Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guest: Iyanna McNeely
IG: https://www.instagram.com/iyanna.amor

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Join the lively and humorous chat as we sit down with Jack, a YouTube sensation with a whopping five million subscribers, who breaks down his extraordinary journey from reviewing Legos at seven to captivating millions with his content today. Jack shares his secrets on balancing ambition, creativity, and technology to keep those productions top-notch, even from afar. Expect a rollercoaster of emotions, tech tips, and chuckles as we dive into the unique challenges of his dual aspirations.

This episode wraps up with practical advice on avoiding distractions, continuous learning, and strategic channel management—all interspersed with light-hearted anecdotes and a sprinkle of humor. Don’t miss out on this blend of ambition, humor, and invaluable advice!

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Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree

Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guest: Jack Kaye
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jackkaye_
YT 1: https://youtube.com/@kayeshorts
YT 2: https://youtube.com/@kaye
YT 3: https://youtube.com/@leafwyd

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Uncovering a dusty congratulations note from my graduation triggered not just nostalgia, but an entire episode's worth of discussion with my guest, Jayvn. Are graphic design degrees still relevant? Should you even consider college anymore? The conversation gets real as we consider the possibility that graphic design might be evolving from a stand-alone career into a versatile skill set necessary for many modern job roles.

The job hunt for newly-minted designers can feel like hacking through a jungle with a blunt machete. This episode peels back the curtain on the hustle needed to leap from the safety of formal education into the professional arena and the grit it takes to carve out a career in this oversaturated field.

The real juice, though, is in our dialogue about coupling a creative degree with a practical one—think business or coding—to cushion your bank account. Join us for this honest exchange, where we weigh the scales of passion against profit and chart a course for a fulfilling creative voyage.

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Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree

Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guest: Jayvn Solomon
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jayvnsolomon/
Loutopia IG: https://www.instagram.com/stloutopia/

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As the heart of St. Louis pulses with a complex beat, Jayvn Solomon (mastermind behind), Juwan Rice (business owner in Downtown St. Louis), and I (business owner and creator in the city) peel back the layers of the city's evolving narrative. We tackle the stark realities of urban decline, known as the "Doom Loop," and the impact it has on the community, set against the backdrop of the city's more vibrant past. Listen closely as we share candid insights into the dramatic sale of the AT&T Building and its implications, weaving through the conversation our personal experiences and the tug-of-war between staying in and leaving the city we call home.

The episode takes a turn as we probe the influence of tech behemoths like Block and Worldwide Technology, contemplating their civic roles and the untapped potential of the creator economy in St. Louis. Could this be the key to keeping our local talent grounded? Our banter serves as a soundtrack to a deeper narrative, one that spotlights the importance of investing in the arts and the struggle for recognition faced by local creators. I share my own leap from the corporate world into the creative sphere, highlighting the urgency for support and collaboration within our community.

Rounding out our discussion with a global perspective, we shed light on St. Louis's international allure, despite the internal challenges. We muse over the city's rich history, the need for family-friendly spaces, and how the right approach to dialogue can spark change. As we contemplate our own reasons for staying rooted in St. Louis, we affirm the significance of each voice in shaping the city's future. Tune in, and be part of an honest conversation that's as much about confronting our present as it is about crafting a vibrant future for St. Louis.

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Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree

Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guest: Jayvn Solomon
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jayvnsolomon/
Loutopia IG: https://www.instagram.com/stloutopia/

Guest: Juwan Rice
IG: https://www.instagram.com/chef_.jr/

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Ever find yourself caught in a passionate argument about the superior breakfast cereal, only to end up strolling down memory lane on a nostalgia-fueled bike ride with a lizard pouch inside of your grandparents' house? That's exactly where we kick things off in our latest episode.

Our special guest, Lisa Camp, joins the fray, sharing her transition from corporate social media management to spearheading her own social media business, and yes, we even touch on a hilarious sriracha heist mid-show.

We peel back the curtain on the life of a content creator, where one moment you're a video producer and the next, you're an entrepreneur helping small businesses soar. I open up about the liberating, yet arduous journey of content production and why the entrepreneurial spirit is the heartbeat of my work. As we navigate these identities, I'll reflect on the humor in aging—because who doesn't need a good chuckle about life's inevitable milestones? After all, I'm 30 now - and it's "all downhill from here" according to Lisa.

From recalling zany food trends to unpacking the viral frenzy around TikTok's pink sauce, we cover it all with a side of wit and a sprinkle of social media savvy. Join us for an episode that's as much a feast for the ears as it is a banquet of laughs and a glimpse behind the curtain of being a creator.

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Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree

Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guest: Lisa Camp
IG: www.instagram.com/lisainthelou_
IG 2: www.instagram.com/lrc.stl

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Strap in for a riveting journey as we sit down with the ever-iconic Ozzie, who opens up about the highs and lows of social media fame. You'll get a rare glimpse behind the curtain of online personas, where Ozzie reveals how he strikes a delicate balance between sharing his life with fans and preserving his own privacy. We discuss leveraging social media for business ventures and philanthropic work will have you pondering the duality of this digital age. Moreover, Ozzie shares heartwarming tales from the community-rich world of sports, stirring up emotions about the unbreakable bonds formed in St. Louis and the enduring legacy that unites players and supporters alike.

Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing tease as we chat about the latest drink sensations making waves across taste palates everywhere. The anticipation is infectious when we talk "back flip" flavor. The episode is a concoction in itself, blending the refreshing zest of innovation with the rich essence of community spirit.

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Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/vibesbydante

Guest: Ozzie Smith
IG: www.instagram.com/ozziestlwizard

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Picture this: a makeup artist turned food vlogger, with a secret penchant for dropping beats on SoundCloud—meet Luke, our Renaissance man, whose eclectic life is a treasure trove of creativity and surprises. We peel back the curtain on Luke's unconventional path, revealing the vibrant tapestry of hobbies and passions that fuel his fire.

We'll cap off our journey with a dash of St. Louis pride, sharing those viral TikTok moments that bind our community and a rallying cry for more live music in our beloved city. This episode is your ticket to a rollercoaster of emotions, laughter, and perhaps a spark of motivation to pursue what makes you come alive. Join us for an adventure through the quirks of life and the art of embracing every unexpected twist and turn.

Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree
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Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guests:
Luke London: www.instagram.com/ohheate

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When Darius Cooks walks into the room, you can't help but feel the presence of someone who's poured their soul into their craft. And believe me, joining him in today’s conversation is Juwan Rice, whose culinary ventures have left a mark on the food landscape here in St. Louis. These two don't just cook; they transform familiar dishes into luxurious experiences that linger long after the last bite. As we reminisce about our last gathering, their stories of unrecognized talent turning into celebrated success will inspire anyone who's ever felt overlooked in their passion.

Navigating the streets of St. Louis on 314 Day, you can taste the pride that simmers in this city's soul. As we chat about the joys and hurdles of earning local support, from the defensive pride of our residents to the sweet victory of finally gaining hometown patronage, you'll understand why community means everything in the culinary world. Our culinary journey takes us from the iconic St. Paul sandwich to the adventurous palates at Blood and Sand, with each bite revealing a passionate city that's much more than its sports teams.

Join us as we share a feast for both the stomach and the soul.

Watch the visual version of this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisntmydegree
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Host: Original Dante
IG: www.instagram.com/originaldante

Guests:

Darius Cooks: https://www.facebook.com/DariusCooksToo
Juwan Rice: https://www.instagram.com/chef_.jr/

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