Art and the Workplace: A Beautiful Combination

Each week you get to know us through our shows and blogs, but have you ever wondered what things are like behind the scenes at Talktainmentradio.com? Well wonder no more, because today we’re giving you a little peek at some recent additions to the building. Not only do we get to work in a newly remodeled office, we are now surrounded by cool and imaginative paintings!

We here at Talktainmentradio.com are major advocates for the creative arts. In addition to being fun to look at, art has emotional benefits and has been proven to have a positive influence on the workplace. Our appreciation for beautiful work is so great that we recently purchased some pieces to go along with our new office! We worked with Columbus-based vendor Black Art Plus to be able to obtain the paintings and could not wait to show you what we acquired! Check out some of the art below!

Talktainmentradio.com artwork

A few pieces of the artwork that we have in the building.

Placed throughout all three stories of the building, we believe the stunning paintings add a touch of flair and elegance to the space, don’t you think?

Talktainmentradio.com Interviews Tammi Rager, Host of ‘The Now Age’

Each week Tammi Rager takes listeners on a journey of the mind, body, and spirit.  Host of The Now Age, she has been in the metaphysical and esoteric fields for over 30 years. Popularly known as “Numerologist to the Stars”, Tammi’s client list includes Grammy winners, fashion designers, and many other members of the entertainment industry.

A self-described “full-time student of life”, Tammi’s studies of the esoteric, metaphysical and holistic areas began in her early teens and have seen her become a success in  every business arena she has chosen to pursue. Want to learn more about Tammi? Read on!

What made you want to get into the radio industry?

Being on the radio was never a goal or direction I thought I’d pursue.  While I’ve frequently been interviewed on various radio programs since the 90’s, I never considered the possibility of becoming a part of the radio industry – except as a guest.

What’s your background in radio?

Since the 90’s I’ve been interviewed on a wide variety of shows from coast-to-coast, and also the BBC from England.  Mainly these interviews focused on celebrity news, political candidates and timely events.  Other than having been a guest, I don’t have any formal radio background training or history.

What made you want to host your own show?

I had been a guest on This is Libby and was then approached to host a show.  Having a magazine and being the editor meant that I had a strong connection with many respected people in the metaphysical and holistic fields.  It seemed like an interesting idea and even though it was outside my normal comfort range (which had been the written word), I thought having a platform to share information in a new way would be fun, exciting and interesting.

What is The Now Age about?

The Now Age focuses on body,mind, and spirit topics. To some these are a little far out there.  But surprisingly, there is a strong audience that believes in unseen spirits, psychic work and the metaphysical world.  I firmly believe that true personal empowerment comes from conscious choice and to make better conscious choices there has to be a variety of options to choose from.  The program takes a look at some various options that include things from spirituality to psychic development.

Who is your target audience?

I suspect that the target audience would be the same as my magazine (DreamWeaver), so demographically speaking this would be predominantly female with some college education.  But I’d like to think that The Now Age crosses demographic lines into a broader audience that is open minded and seeking alternative information for spiritual, holistic and metaphysical areas.

What makes you an expert in your field?

Wow, what a question… let’s see if I can answer this quickly and easily.  I’ve extensively studied a wide range of metaphysical, holistic and paranormal fields for 35+ years, published a magazine since 2003, and am the “Numerologist to the Stars”.  Within the last 12 months, I’ve published 4 books, am a co-creator for iPhone/iPod apps and am working on a Master’s Degree on in paranormal/psychic areas.  I’ve been a professional intuitive (psychic) with over 20 years experience and an international clientele.

Lastly, what’s next for you?

Well, I’m busy working on another iPhone/iPod app for Numerology, trying to finish another book and busy taking care of business as the Chairperson of Universal Life Expo (the largest all-volunteer metaphysical/holistic event in the US).  I’d like to say an exotic vacation would be next for me, but I don’t foresee that happening for a while.

The Now Age airs live on Monday’s at 7 PM EST, so be sure to tune in at Talktainmentradio.com!

Show Highlight: ‘Presbyterian Grace with CRE Cathy Hill’

Presbyterian Grace is an online radio ministry heard exclusively on Talktainmentradio.com.  Every Sunday, host CRE Catherine Hill takes audiences through a full Presbyterian worship service where she offers sermons, readings from the scripture, and blessings. The broadcasted religious observance brings church directly to the listener, allowing them to partake in the ceremony from the comfort of their own home.

The journey to ‘Grace’

Catherine’s path to the Presbyterian church is one that has allowed the host to experience many fulfilling aspects of life. Born and raised Jewish, Catherine’s passion for growth has seen her own a restaurant, spend 6 years in the Air Force, and travel the world. Today that passion includes her love of spreading the word of God on Presbyterian Grace.

When asked to describe the show in her own words, Catherine had this to say:

Presbyterian Grace is a full Presbyterian worship service done in its entirety on the air. My show is really concentrated on scripture and God’s word. Everyone and anyone who is trying to have a relationship with Christ and wants to be uplifted and encouraged is welcomed to listen. Plus, the program is accepting and affirming. The Lord says “Whoever shall believe in me, will have everlasting life”. The optimum word in that statement being whoever. I hope that the spirit of the Lord touches each and every one of my listeners.”

Tune in and rejoice each Sunday at 5 PM for Presbyterian Grace, heard only on Talktainmentradio.com.

City of Columbus Declares May 12 ‘National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day’

The campaign to expand public consciousness of fibromyalgia just got a little bit easier in central Ohio. During Monday afternoon’s Columbus City Council meeting, Health and Human Services Committee chair Priscilla R. Tyson sponsored a resolution to declare May 12 as “National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day” in the city of Columbus. The initiative, spearheaded by Exceptions To The Rules radio host E. Michelle Lee and Dr. Kevin Hackshaw, Associate Professor, Rheumatology & Immunology at The Ohio State University, was presented and passed after hearing testimonials from both parties.

TTR.com at City Hall

Dr. Hackshaw (left) and Lee (right) pose for a photo after the City Council meeting.

Fibromyalgia: Millions affected, zero cured

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles, joints, and tissues of the body . Of the over 5 million people diagnosed with fibromyalgia in the United States, 80 percent of those affected are women. While treatment ranges from oral medication to surgery, there is no known cure for the syndrome.

The work to spread the word continues

Lee’s fight against fibromyalgia is fueled by her personal experience with the disease. Having dealt with painful symptoms after being diagnosed with the chronic disorder over two decades ago, she decided to use her show as a platform to emphasize the necessity to find a cure. Tonight’s Exceptions episode is dedicated to fibromyalgia awareness and will feature Janet Favero Chambers, President of the National Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Association.

Be sure to tune in to Exception To The Rules Thursday’s at 6 PM EST on Talktainmentradio.com.

Love & Laughter with a Message: Meet the Ladies of the Tuesday Primetime Lineup

Tuesday evenings at Talktainmentradio.com are all about getting personal. Gett’n Down to Earth, Creative Connections, and Real Talk are shows that encourage audiences to get comfortable, call in, and share their stories and insights on a vast array of topics. Led by love and life gurus Earth Jallow, Tomiqua Perry, and Nikki Ransom, the lineup allows each host to showcase her own style and unique personality. To get to know them better, we sat down and asked them a few questions to learn more about their experiences and their shows. Want to know more about the ladies of the Tuesday primetime lineup? Read on!

Why don’t you each tell us about a little about yourself…

Nikki: I’m a married mother of four children and two bonus children. I’m a Certified Master Sex Expert and Sex Coach and owner of Naughty Angels LLC, where we provide sexual education and enhancement products.  I’m an author also appearing in a collection of erotic tales with New York Times bestselling author Karrine Steffans.  My main passion in life is to educate people about sex, what sex was really meant to be for us, and how to have amazing relationships.

Earth: I started off marketing and pushing other people and their product or brand. I enjoyed being behind the scenes and making others look good. I had the opportunity to do marketing and personal assisting to some celebrities, which allowed me direct access to their professional knowledge. I studied under international motivational speaker Les Brown, and gained invaluable music industry knowledge and contacts through Erykah Badu, Talib Kwali, and a few others.

I bumped into Khari Enaharo in early 2000 after doing some shows on WVKO and an internet radio show, and he said I had a radio voice. He later had me on his show, “Straight Talk Live”, as a guest and there bloomed my media broadcast career.

Tomiqua: I am a 33 year old event planner, promoter, emcee and general advocate for the underground arts and entertainment scene. My first love was, and still is, written word. I started my creative journey by way of poetry and jewelry design.

What is your show about?

Earth: Gett’n Down to Earth is about LIFE. The things that go on within our families, with women, children, education, politics, and music. My show is community oriented, yet nationally targeted.

Tomiqua: Creative Connections is a platform for artists and entertainers in Columbus to promote projects, events, concerts, and entrepreneurial ventures. Weekly topics pertain to current issues and developments relating to creativity and life issues.

Nikki: Real Talk is all about being your best when it comes to love, relationships, and sex.

How do you feel being a woman in the radio industry, which is a predominantly male arena?

Earth: I don’t care about that.

Nikki: I enjoy it.  I haven’t noticed any downsides to being in a predominantly male industry.

Tomiqua: I love it!! I have always had a special energy with the male species. Often I am underestimated because of being a woman and being short; that is, until I open my mouth and then it is quickly apparent that I am educated and well-versed in most topics pertaining to creativity. Being the minority motivates me.

Is there any advice that you have for those who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

Tomiqua: Work hard, persevere, manifest and make adversity your driving force. Walk in your path and purpose with a genuine heart and you will succeed.

Nikki: Do not compromise on your vision and go for your dreams no matter who tells you it won’t work or tries to knock you down.

Earth: Don’t follow in my steps…create YOUR own!

Be sure to tune in Tuesdays at 5 PM, 6 PM, and 7 PM EST to listen to Gett’n Down to Earth, Creative Connections, and Real Talk!

5 Things You Must Experience During Spring in Columbus, Ohio

Spring is all about putting away your winter clothes and heading outside to enjoy the warm weather for the first time in 6 or so months. To help you get the fun started, here is a list of 5 things you must experience during Spring in Columbus, Ohio.

Columbus Clippers Games

There are few better ways to enjoy the Springtime than to go to a Columbus Clippers baseball game. Nestled deep within the thriving Arena District, Huntington Park sees tens of thousands of fans walk in and out of its gates to cheer for their favorite team. It also doesn’t hurt that the ever-popular Dime-A-Dog Nightcontinuously brings in some of the largest attendance numbers of the season!

The Short North Arts District Gallery Hop

Held the first Saturday of every month, Gallery Hop attracts thousands of visitors looking to take in culture in ways they have never experienced before. Various examples of art can be found tucked in-between buildings and lining the sidewalks as attendees enjoy the sights and sounds that accompany the affair. Unleash your inner art enthusiast as you take to the streets of the Short North to observe the work of some of the region’s (and nation’s, really) most talented painters, sculptors, and photographers.

The North Market

This gem is a must-see for anyone who considers him- or herself  a “foodie”. Boasting savory cuisine options for even the pickiest of palates, the North Market houses businesses known for providing consumers with some of the freshest meat, poultry, and seafood in central Ohio. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, a passion for ethnic food, or even prefer to have breakfast for dinner, you can find it all here. Basically, if you crave it, the North Market’s got it! It’s also worth noting that the North Market is Columbus’ only public market and  an incubator for small businesses.

North Market

{photo courtesy of experiencecolumbus.com}

 

Columbus’ Parks

Franklin Park. Scioto Mile Parks. Goodale Park. Really, there are just too many great parks in Columbus to name. Each one possessing its own unique sense of scenery, central Ohioans are really spoiled for choice when it comes to picking where they want to spend their afternoons. Take advantage of the concerts and gatherings that take place in the many, many parks of Columbus. There is a lot going on, here. You just have to know where to look!

Hit the Patios!

One of the major perks of Springtime in Columbus is that a vast amount of restaurants have patios! Take advantage of the weather by going to a restaurant, finding the perfect table and enjoying your favorite margarita or taco (or both) as you sit outside and view the world around you. The best part about the patio dining experience is that you can do it at anytime, anywhere: lunch, brunch, dinner, and even after the kitchens close!

I hope this list was a great jumping-off point for getting you outside during the Spring season.  Let us know in the ‘comments’ section what you recommend for fun in the sun in Columbus!

4 Things Every Woman Should Do in the Morning

Living a healthy, happy, and balanced life is essential for everyone, especially women. Here is a list of four things every woman should do at the start of her day:

Workout

Getting a brisk walk or jog in the morning is the best way to start your day off. It jump starts your metabolism and endorphin levels that keep you energized for the day.  It can be as simple as a bike ride or yoga, get those muscles moving early in the morning! Be sure to grab a healthy breakfast afterwards.

Breakfast

Waking up early and eating breakfast is probably one of the hardest things to do; but it is also the most important. Eating breakfast in the morning can determine your mood for the rest of the day. This is because serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is related to our well being, needs the nutrient of breakfast to kick start our day. If this meal is skipped (or if you try to suffice with a donut) you could ruin the chance of having a good day. Women need Omega 3′s along with protein balance to keep hormones and metabolism straight. All it takes is a little extra time in the morning to get your day started properly!

De-stress

This, in my opinion, is one of the best things to do in the morning. Sitting in silence for a moment and letting go of all of your troubles from the day prior, listening to music, or meditating is a great way to distress. This allows you a clear mind that is ready to conquer a new day.

Remind Yourself Your Beautiful

We tend to forget to tell ourselves this but that needs to change. After your workout, breakfast, and de-stressing in the morning, look in the mirror and remind yourself of you beauty and your worth. If you don’t believe it, then how can you expect someone else to?

There you have it ladies! Do you have any morning rituals? Share in the comments and let us know!

Women in PR: Debunking the Stereotype

Public relations has become a rising industry that is dominated by women. One would assume that women would get a little more respect because of this fact but, to this day, there are many stereotypes surrounded by women in the industry and it is time to debunk these stereotypes once and for all.

After declaring my second major in public relations I fell in love immediately with the field. When I would share this with others I always got the same response:

“What’s PR? Isn’t that like planning parties and stuff?”

Wrong! We can thank the shows “Sex and the City” and “The Hills” for this assumption.

The intricate nature of public relations

Being a Public Relations Practitioner is way more complex than just planning a party and getting media coverage. There is a lot of strategic planning that goes on behind the scenes that women are heavily involved in.

Not only is it important to know how to utilize traditional media platforms in the industry, women also have to become acquainted with new nontraditional media platforms and stay “in the know” of trends in the industry – as well as digital platforms with the rise of social media becoming a key factor in integrated marketing communication strategies. There is more to the public relations industry than the glitz and glamour that is displayed on popular television, and women now rule the industry.

Why do women rule the industry right now?

Women are the masters of the industry because of their drive and determination to find the best ways to represent their clients. Some work for large public relations firms and others start their own businesses; regardless of where women are working, they have been the headliners of major marketing campaigns across the globe.

So, for those who believe that all women in PR do is plan parties, check out this video from Mark Ragan Communications on women dominating public relations.

What are some other stereotypes you have heard about women in public relations? Comment and help me debunk these stereotypes!

5 Most Influential Women of the 2000′s

It’s Women’s History Month so all of my posts over the next few weeks will focus on women! First, we are going to take a look at some of the most influential women of the 2000′s and why they inspire us.

Bibi Aisha

After 18 year old Bibi Aisha ran away from her abusive spouse and his family, she was dragged to a mountain top where she had her ears and nose cut off. She was told by Taliban leaders and officials that she had to be made an example of so that other women would not think it was right to run away from their husbands.

Bibi Aisha was left on that mountain to die but instead rose a woman who would inspire us all. She continues to stand up against the Taliban in Afghanistan despite her horrific story. Not only was she the face of TIME Magazine in August 2010, she is also the face of all women to remind us that we can stand up for what we believe and make a change in our lives. Her story will continue to live on across the globe.

Portia Simpson Miller

Public servant, Jamaican parliament elect, oh! And the first woman to become the Prime Minister of Jamaica!

Portia Simpson Miller made history in 2006 when she became the first woman to become the Prime Minister of Jamaica at the age of 66; she was reelected in December 2011. Just last year she called for Jamaica to become a republic and break away from the British Monarchy and today she continues to fight for the rights of all Jamaicans including civil rights for gays and lesbians.

Virginia Rometty

Move over boys, you’re not the only one who can be CEO of a fortune 500 company! In 2012, Virginia Rometty became the first woman to have the title at CEO at IBM.

Virginia has helped the company excel in foreign countries like China and India. She has also helped the company conquer locally in the business world and education with programs for up and coming tech-savvy children.

Her 30+ years of experience in computer science and electrical engineering has earned her the top spot of this billion dollar company and she has shown us the c-suite is for women, too.

Samira Ibrahim

Two years ago after Egyptian soldiers captured her and other female protesters, they were forced to take “virginity tests” to prove that they had never had intercourse. Samira Ibrahim refused to stay silent and sued her local military. In December 2011, a judge ruled that the practice was illegal; but her fight had only just begun.

In March 2012, a military tribunal acquitted the doctor who performed the “virginity tests” and Samira has promised to continue to fight his acquittal through international law.

Samira Ibrahim refuses to stay silent about this humiliating practice that she was forced to endure. She continues to be a voice for women’s rights in Egypt to prevent this from happening to other women.

Oprah Winfrey

How could we have this list without, Oprah?!

Oprah Winfrey was the first woman to have a television show where she talked about many topics facing American women. She was an inspiration outside of her day job taking many trips to foreign countries and doing humanitarian work.

Actress, author, philanthropist, friend – without ever meeting her, viewers can get a sense that Oprah is a genuine person. She continues to inspire women across the globe.

Know of some women we should have put on this list? Comment and tell us some of the women who inspire you!

Talktainmentradio.com Interviews ‘Brown Sugar on Sports’ Host

As previously announced, Talktainmentradio.com is going to the 2013 Arnold Sports Festival! We enjoy events like this because we get the opportunity to be in the thick of the excitement and get to be up close and personal with members of the community. We’ve tapped Brown Sugar on Sports host, Danielle Benson, to be on site to interview sports enthusiasts to get the inside scoop on all things ASF2013. An athlete herself, we spoke with Danielle to hear about her history in fitness, her feelings on women in sports, and who she looks forward to talking with most!

 

Tell us a little about yourself…

I’m a Columbus native, I LOVE sports and the arts, and volleyball is my favorite sport. I’m a mom to a beautiful teenage daughter, I design jewelry, and in my spare time I like to paint.

What inspired you to get in to fitness?

I’ve been an athlete all my life! From little league tee ball to playing volleyball, basketball and competitive cheerleading in college. My parents taught us at an early age to be active, they had us in all types of sports. And even in the summer when we to spend time with my Grandma there was never any TV watching, only playing outside literally from 8am-7pm.  Being active is my way of life, I don’t think I know of any other way to be.

You are involved in many different activities. You’re a radio host, a high school coach, a volleyball trainer, a personal trainer, and that’s just a few of your many hobbies. How do you find the time to do it all?

Time management and not enough sleep at times! I try to focus on one thing at a time. I also run my own jewelry design company Nontle Jewelry. That’s the artist outlet that balances my athleticism and provides a sense of peace and positivity in the daily grind.

You will be conducting interviews for Talktainmentradio.com at the 2013 Arnold Classic Festival. Will this be your first time attending the event? If not, what can first-time attendees expect to experience?

Yes it is and I’m soooo super dumb pumped!! (one of my favorite saying to express my excitement level, LOL).

Being an advocate for fitness, who are you interested in speaking with at the Festival?

The first-timers!! It’s always interesting to hear the story of someone’s first time at a national event. And since this is my first time as well, we are all in this together!

How do you feel about the progress the industry has made on shining the light on women’s sports?

I’m pleased, but I think there could be more coverage on the national level. There are other sports besides women’s basketball that deserve the public’s attention.

What steps do you think need to be taken to garner more coverage for female athletes in a male-dominated arena?

Show women for the athletes that they are and don’t diminish their talents!

Is there any advice you have for girls who aspire to go into athletics?

Don’t be discouraged by anyone to not go after what you want!!! I’m 5’3″ and I was told I would never play volleyball outside of middle school, but I went on to succeed at the college level. My team was 5th in the nation in Division 3 colleges at the time (something the school hasn’t been able to achieve again.)

I also want to say that it’s OK to be a girl and be an athlete! You don’t have to alter your look in order to play sports! Be true to your feminine side… And you too can say…”Don’t let the lipstick fool you!”.

 

Be sure to tune in to Brown Sugar on Sports Fridays at 8 PM EST. Podcasts of the show are available 24/7.