PHANTOM AT 100: FROM ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TO RAP –
PHANTOM’S BOLD CENTURY IN MUSIC
PHANTOM AT 100: FROM ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TO RAP –
PHANTOM’S BOLD CENTURY IN MUSIC
“Each embraces New York with the intense excitement of first love, each absorbs New York with the fresh eyes of an adventurer.”
—E.B. White
“No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.”
- Theodore Roosevelt
New York City is the epicenter of the world. From Wall Street to Broadway from Centre Street to Central Park. New Yorkers embrace every new day with intelligence, grit and gratitude. The great experiment of America is alive and well across this vast Metropolis boasting crowded boutiques and businesses along Madison Avenue and throughout Manhattan.
Former Metropolitan Magazine Editor and U.S. President, Theodore Roosevelt, would have approved whole-heartedly with the choice of this month’s cover.
Teddy Roosevelt loved politics and action. Kimberly Guilfoyle is cut from that same cloth.
Fashion, Art, health and luxury are well represented in our Holiday issue featuring the magical IHeart Radio & YourHomeTV star Xen Sams. A longtime friend of Metropolitan, Xen Sams is the pitch-perfect ambassador and marketing genius who amplifies all brands and businesses to the highest levels.
A rugged individualist. Warrior. A passionate and courageous advocate. Devoted mom. Tireless supporter of charities. A woman of power and grace with a sense of humor, style and love of adventure and nature.
Thanks so much to Kimberly for gracing our covers for a record fourth time. Kudos to photographer Madison Sohaney, fashion designer Oscar Lopez, jeweler Cameron Neft, and Austin Ryde, Brianna Dominguez, and Dalia Silva for their amazing work on hair and makeup.
Also featured is Global Health influencer and friend Jen Selter and other top health experts. Looking and feeling your best is always important. So grateful for the way all our good friends in Palm Beach have made the Advanced Aesthetics MedSpa so popular. The best is yet to come.
Wishing you and your families a very happy Thanksgiving from your family at Metropolitan.
Enjoy!
And many thanks to all our contributors, strategic partners and hard-working staff that make Metropolitan a leading luxury magazine.
Enjoy!
Natural Beauty. Expert Craftsmanship.
VIEW OUR SPECTACULAR COLLECTIONS IN PRINCETON and PALM BEACH
“Wake now, discover that you are the song that the morning brings But the heart has its seasons, its evenings and songs of its own.”
-The Grateful Dead
- F. Scott Fitzgerald
Summer is here with sunshine-streaked promises of brighter days and music in the air.
There is no better time than the holiday season in Manhattan with the red, yellow and orange hues dressing the trees in Central Park. Excitement is in the air. NYFW ushers in the latest in fashion while skeletons and jack-o-lanterns festoon NYC brownstones on Park Avenue in anticipation of Halloween where the Village Parade is always a thriller. Leading up to the grandaddy of all parades on Thanksgiving at Macy’s, and along the Upper West Side, where giant balloons delight kids of all ages. The tree lit up at Rockefeller Center, the colorful christmas windows, and the ball drop in Times Square —all point to a bright New Year for all!
The beaches are full of the latest swimsuits and spa fashion including luxury hand bags. The hottest summer read, James Sturz’s magical and beautifully written new novel UnderJungle.
Summer Music Concerts are in full swing from Taylor Swift to Dead & Co. As fans are dancing in the streets. Also featured in this issue, some amazing mothers and daughters, from TV’s Wonder Woman Lynda Carter and her singing daughter Jessica Carter Altman to former model Carolyn Melillo and her singer-songwriting daughter Ellis Melillo who will be performing in the fall as an opener to Zac Brown at the Jones Beach Amphitheater.
Photographer Amy Arbus remembers her legendary mother Diane Arbus. On the art scene, everybody is buzzing about Takuma Tanaka, Japan’s version of Jean Michel Basquiat, and we explore the work of Lori Horowitz, Julia Licht and other rising stars.
Enjoy!
Cover star Xen Sams is a force of nature. Brilliance and beauty, vision and philanthropy. Xen is a north star who people and brands gravitate toward because of her ability to lead. Her popular IHeart radio show that is also featured on the family-friendly streaming platform YourHomeTV, was just syndicated nationally and features some of the leading health experts in the world, like Autism pioneer, Dr. Robert Melillo and NYC’s top spine surgeon, Dr. Michael Gerling.
Xen is joined inside the magazine by global health influencer Jen Selter and her tens of millions of devoted fans. Rachel Vancelette provides insight into her friend Billy Zane’s new movie about Marlon Brando, while former Parisian runway model Coco Dolle dishes from Paris Fashion Week. Fun stuff!
So much to be thankful for on this beautiful autumn day!
Adam Kluger Editor in Chief
Adam
Kluger Editor in Chief
Metropolitan/25A
Metropolitan Palm Beach
Metropolitan/25A
Metropolitan Palm Beach
Metropolitan Lifestyles
62
JEN SELTER
ANAT FRITZ
DR ROBERT MELILLO
DR MICHAEL GERLING
EPYPE MARKETING
YOURHOMETV
GRETCHEN PHILYAW
WALTZING WITH BRANDO
SARAH VIE
ANNIE WATT
FORM 68
LORENA CAIRNS
ROBIN KOFFLER
JOE CASERTA
NICK GHAFARI
"THE LAST GREAT DREAM"
BURNING MAN
SHELF LIFE OF A TROPHY WIFE 80 EXPERIENCING TRANSCENDENCE
TO WRITE A PROPHET
FTL INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
SHANI GROSZ FASHION
DIEGO SPIRITS FESTIVAL
CATWALK FURBABY X NYFW
INTERNATIONAL FASHION FILM FEST
Publisher
Chase Backer
Editor-in-Chief
Adam Kluger
Assistant Publisher
Jaime Backer
Art Director
Lonee Telemaque
Sales Manager
Jeffrey Strahl
Copy Editors
Sean Buttimer; Whitney Thompson; Maribel Alvarez; Lillian Langtry; Nicole Ashley Schubert
Features writer: Gia Carillo
Lifestyle Editor
Norah Bradford
Luxury Editor
Stephanie L. Howitt
Editor at Large | Art, Culture, Fashion
Rachel Vancelette; Douglas Evans
Global Culture Editor (Paris Office)
Coco Dolle
Fashion Photographers
Jason Konrad
Profiles Editor
Alexandra Appino-Tabone
Social Editor
Clara Morgan
Food Editor
Andrea Correale; Maribel Alvarez
Digital Media Director
Nancy Molina
Contributors
Rachel Vancelette, D.D. Rice, Paul Prince, Peter Elston, Johnny Angel, Harry White
Contributing Photographers
Thomas Concordia, Jacques Malignon, David Scarola, Tara Quinn, Jason Konrad,
Luciana Pampalone, Michael Gaida, Michael Paniccia, Jay Mathews, Filip Shobot, Chris Carroll, Lenny Stucker, Patrick McMullan, MA , Tom Fitzgerald and Pam Deutchman, Sandy Ramirez, Jan Klier, Mitchel Gray, Paul Prince, Kristiina Wilson
For advertisement info: 646-300-1852
Info@metmagny.com | metmagny.com Facebook.com/metropolitanmagazinepb | Twitter.com/metmagny Writers, models, musicians and photographers, please inquire.
Interview with
Adam Kluger: Tell us a little about yourself
Coco Dolle: I came to New York in the late 90s to study abstract art and dance after I graduated with a master’s degree in marketing from a business school in Paris. I quickly got spotted by a casting director Barbara Pfister on the streets of East Village near my loft and became a model for seven years. In the early 2000s, I walked runway shows alongside Paris Hilton and Ivanka Trump and was featured in Vogue and Forbes. I also modeled for numerous artists including iconic American painter Alex Katz while exhibiting my work in galleries as an artist.
Today, I am an art curator and international writer, having organized more than forty cultural events across New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Marseille, and published nearly fifty articles in American and French outlets. I’ve also interviewed leading figures in culture, fashion and tech. My creative path is unapologetically unconventional.
AK: Love that photo of you as a NYFW model on the rooftop with the twin towers behind you - what’s the backstory to that image and how has the fashion world changed?
CD: I love that photo too, it feels iconic. I’m grateful to have it in my archives, a snapshot of a moment no one could ever recreate in real life today. It was the late ’90s in New York, and I was what we called an “ It girl ”, a character model living Andy Warhol’s 15 minutes of fame. In this image, I was working as the fit model for French knitwear designer Pierrot with a studio on 10th Street, just across from the Russian baths. At the time, the East Village’s raw rooftops were coveted for their skyline views of the Empire State Building and the Twin Towers.
The photographer who took that image is still a friend today. From that very rooftop, I saw both Twin Towers collapse, it was both surreal and terrifying.
My first job as a model was a print ad for Dell Computers titled Born to Web. It was the dawn of electronic mail, back when we still had landlines. Soon after, my casting agent was sending me to shoots with Vogue photographers, Steven Klein, Tom Monroe, and Terry Richardson. I also worked with emerging talents, some, like Danielle Levitt who became successful, and who later shot me and my daughter in Tori Amo’s music video Flavor. My modeling images appeared in WWD, fashion ads and arty print magazines.
Back then, New York's lifestyle was a unique mix of bohemian chic and punk rock attitudes. I remember intimate cocktails near Grace Jones, Bill Murray, David Bowie, Björk, Chloë Sevigny, Faye Dunaway, and Benicio Del Toro. It was a different era, before social media reshaped the way we interact and build identity. Today, we live in a society of polished and constant spectacle. Fashion remains tangible and real, but the spotlight has shifted, from a handful of eccentric top models and designers, to a plethora of brands and global influencers.
AK: What kinds of stories can Metropolitan readers expect from you in the future?
CD: First of all, I’m really excited to bring in my community of talents and develop stories shaped by my eclectic background in both fine art and fashion. I’m also deeply inspired by conscious entrepreneurship and female leaders. For Metropolitan, I’d like to explore trends across art, fashion, tech, hospitality, and travel, always with a balance of lifestyle, elegance, and sincerity.
by Coco Dolle
Azzedine Alaïa 2003 couture at Foundation Alaïa Paris, 2025Image: Stéphane Aït Ouarab
aris Fashion Week SS26 opened with breathtaking performances staged by L’Oréal Paris, Yves Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton, each transforming iconic landmarks into living runways.
L’Oréal Paris launched the week with Le Défilé in front of the Hôtel de Ville, under the banner of Liberty, Equality, Sisterhood, with scrolling capital letters as background: You’re Worth It. The giant outdoor show gathered an impressive pool of international ambassadors, from Jane Fonda, Helen Mirren, Andie MacDowell, Viola Davis, and Gillian Anderson to Kendall Jenner, Eva Longoria, Aishwarya Rai, and Charlotte Rampling. It was a spectacular fusion of fashion, performance, and activism.
At the Louvre, Louis Vuitton unveiled a collection of pastels and soft greys against the ochre walls of the Italian galleries. With Zendaya and Lisa of Blackpink front row, Nicolas Ghesquière presented looks inspired by an elegant, intimate wardrobe, silk robes, pajama silhouettes, and layered textures, echoing a return to softness and self-care within luxury.
Yves Saint Laurent, meanwhile, transformed the Trocadero terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower into a flowered romantic yet dramatic stage. Madonna, Kate Moss, Hailey Bieber, and Charlotte Rampling gathered for Anthony Vaccarello’s vision of Summer 2026. Models appeared in radical black trench coats, leather jackets, large white bows, stilettos, and sharp pumps, recalling the bold silhouettes and sunglasses of the 1980s. The soundtrack pulsed with drama, amplifying the collection’s edge against the glittering Paris skyline.
Fashion in Paris remains a theater of dreams, where heritage houses and cultural icons meet to remind us that the runway is not just about clothes, but about magical moments.
For Metropolitan, I have highlighted two close-up stories happening around the main fashion houses: The Azzedine Alaïa’s seminal 2003 couture runway show exhibited at the Foundation, and a luxury vintage pop up showroom by celebrity stylist Elisabetta di Maso.
By Coco Dolle
Photo Credit: Stéphane Aït Ouarab
nder the luminous glass roof of the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa in Paris Le Marais, the seminal Summer-Autumn 2003 couture collection is reawakened with an exhibition of the collection’s masterpieces. Around thirty silhouettes stand beneath the glass canopy where the original vestal models, like Naomi Campbell, once paraded, at once goddesses and muses, suspended between movement and stillness.
These garments were manifestos of technical virtuosity: sculpted second skins in which discipline met sensuality. Zippers became architecture, fabric an act of devotion. In their curves and contours, one reads not only the anatomy of fashion, but the spirit of a man who saw clothing as a sacred craft, a dialogue between precision and grace.
Alaïa’s story, from his arrival in Paris in 1956 to his first show under his own name in 1982, is one of patient apprenticeship. He learned in silence, dressing private clients, absorbing every secret of the female form. Then came the decade of triumph, from 1982 to 1992, when his name echoed across ateliers and runways alike. His debut at Bergdorf Goodman announced a new language of couture; his two Fashion Oscars in 1985 confirmed his reign. Each season unveiled the core architecture of his genius: the zip dress, the bandage dress, the sculpted jacket, all ruled by the geometry of perfection.
On the second floor of the Foundation, his spirit lingers still. Through a glass window, one can glimpse the atelier, untouched since the day of his passing with unfinished garments. Patterns lie open, mannequins poised mid-fitting beside rolls of fabrics, spools of thread, and needles resting mid-gesture. It feels as if his spirit were still there, continuously working with the light and shadows.
lisabetta Di Maso is a luxury stylist and archive collector who began curating rare designer pieces at just sixteen. Her passion for 1990s fashion, from the collections of Galliano, Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier, or Roberto Cavalli, has evolved into an international pursuit. Today, she travels the world sourcing vintage treasures and curating exclusive showrooms in New York, LMiami, Paris, London and Los Angeles. During Paris Fashion Week, she hosted a pop up showroom, a hub for private clients, celebrities and fashion influencers.
Di Maso " "
Styling is about educating and inspiring. I always take the time to explain the story behind each piece: the year, the collection, the cultural significance and help my clients connect with it on a deeper level.
-
Elisabetta
Coco Dolle: Tell us about your recent pop up showroom in Paris. How was it in line with the overall spirit of SS26? What visitors/clients made your highlights?
Elisabetta Di Maso: I always try to stay in tune with seasonal trends, but I follow my own personal taste first and foremost. For this Pop Up in Paris, I curated a selection that felt fresh and contemporary, yet true to my aesthetic. I was really happy to see clients I admire and have been working with for a while,people whose style I genuinely love,like Camille Charrière, Karen Brit Chick, and Tanya Ravichandran. They all came, shopped, and truly connected with the pieces. That kind of response is always the biggest highlight for me.
CD: You started collecting at sixteen. What first sparked your fascination with designer vintage?
EDM: I grew up watching FashionTV and was mesmerized by the elegance and theatricality of fashion from a very young age. My mom played a special role in this journey, she was a collector herself. I fell in love with designers like Galliano and the incredible work he did for Dior in 2003 and 2004. I became obsessed with the idea of finding rare, forgotten pieces from those collections and made it my mission to preserve these iconic moments in fashion history.
CD: Your archive takes you around the world. How do you decide where to go next and hunt for your next extraordinary find?
EDM: Every time I’d visit a new city, the first thing I would do is an online search of vintage shops or archives to visit. I started discovering true gems and began creating my own personal map of secret spots with the best collections in each city. Now, I usually travel to places where I already know I have high chances of finding rare pieces, but honestly almost every city has its own hidden vintage treasures. One of the most surprising places was Munich in Germany, where I discovered some truly extraordinary pieces.
CD: In your journey through the world of luxury fashion, what have been the most iconic moments or encounters that shaped your perspective as a collector and a stylist?
EDM: One of the most transformative experiences has been meeting vintage store owners around the world, people who are truly passionate about what they do. These encounters have deeply shaped me. Many
of them shared their immense knowledge of fashion history with me, passing down stories, context, and expertise that I wouldn’t have found anywhere else. It was more than inspiration, it felt like receiving a legacy.
CD: As a personal stylist, how do you translate your archive and expertise into creating distinctive looks for your clients?
EDM: For me, styling is about educating and inspiring. I always take the time to explain the story behind each piece : the year, the collection, the cultural significance and help my clients connect with it on a deeper level. It’s not just about buying something beautiful from the past; it’s about wearing a piece of history. From that moment on, they carry something truly unique in their wardrobe and they learn to love it even more over time.
CD: Your IG name is @Bethielle, can you tell us about the origins of this name ?
EDM: It’s actually a nickname my childhood friends gave me, and I never changed it. I’ve always found it original and unique, and over time it became part of my identity. It just stuck with me and still feels very "me".
Photographer | Van Strahl
Editor | Adam Kluger
Production | City Island Production, Thomas Carmona, Evan Miller
Studio | Splashlight Studios - Lida Moore
Assistant/Lighting | Christopher Consoli
Styling | Assorted Wears- Ryan Druckenmiller
Styling Assist | Jacob Marley
Jewelry | Erickson Beamon & Showroom
Seven; Karen Erickson
Hair and Makeup | Ava Lorentzen
Model Agency | Muse NYC
Agents | Kati Brown and Nicholas Policarpo
Female Model | Emmy Edmondson
Male Model | Anthony Antenucci
All the Best with Zita Keeley is an award-winning culinary travel series where host Zita takes viewers on a global culinary adventure. Traveling aboard cruise ships and river ships, Zita explores diverse cultures through their culinary traditions, meeting chefs, artisans, and locals along the way.
She describes it as “getting a taste of a place, it is like “speed dating” with destinations—offering a taste of the world’s best flavors and experiences in every episode.
From Rome to Venice, Santorini to Rhodes, Marseille to Sete or from Ketchikan to Homer, Zitas culinary journey has delights in store for all her viewers. Watch on any device at https://zita.yourhometv.com
The world is on the menu - so come hungry!
Once Upon A Coconut transcends the boundaries of a mere brand; it embodies a devotion to coconut water's natural, hydrating essence and a profound mission to foster a more compassionate and inclusive world. We pledge to redefine hydration through a product line that champions purity, sustainability, and philanthropy.
A dedication to the simplicity of nature is at the core of our ethos. We source premium coconuts from sustainable farms, ensuring that our products contribute to everyday wellbeing and reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Once Upon A Coconut aspires to epitomize transparency in the beverage industry by meticulously crafting each product with coconut water-derived ingredients selected for their hydrating properties, culminating in a celebration of the versatile health benefits of coconuts.
Our commitment extends beyond crafting exceptional beverages. Once Upon A Coconut is on a mission to impact the world positively. By actively giving back to communities, uplifting individuals, and supporting charities, we foster a brighter, more compassionate world for all. Join us in sipping with purpose as we hydrate not just bodies but also contribute to the well-being of our global onceuponacoconut.com, and follow us @onceuponacoconut
By Norah Bradford
an Francisco has always provided a postcard backdrop for the globetrotter who seeks more than just an average travel itinerary.
The city is the ultimate melting pot of architectural wonders, culinary grandness, and artistic divinity. The tony town known for iconic cable cars and one very famous curvy road, historically hits all the marks of a quintessential American landmark. And in 2025, the 1 Hotel San Francisco warmly embraces all these aspects while taking a sophisticated approach to opening doors to a sustainable sanctuary.
Inspired by Northern California’s stunning landscape, this urban oasis uses the area’s influence, harbor history, and dynamic days central to the Embarcadero. Located at 8 Mission Street, the exquisite escape proudly proclaims itself as the place to be where routines are forgotten, rhythms are honored, and rituals are born.
"I wanted to capture the beauty of nature in a hotel and commit to safeguarding it as best as I can, a responsibility that I believe we all share. It's 1 world,” states Barry Sternlicht, Chairman, Starwood Capital Group. “But 1 is more than a hotel. It's a philosophy and a platform for change."
Nature at the hotel guides the journey. From global programs, partnerships, conversations, and mindsets, it is a resort that aspires to transform an industry into one that relies on the prosperity of the planet and its people.
To stay on the property allows the visitor to have self-balance, selfregulate, self-cleanse, and restore harmony. Rooms are sophisticated and full of touches a lover of nature deeply appreciates. Take in views of the city skyline, the iconic Ferry Building, and the San Francisco Bay from the famed Embarcadero. Thoughtful touches bring nature into your space with native greenery, reclaimed materials, natural textures, and sustainably sourced linens.
All rooms are pet friendly and include complimentary WiFi, HD Smart TVs, luxury sustainable mattresses, cotton bedding, filtered water
taps, soft cotton robes and slippers, Bamford Bath products, and a coffee machine.
Alcove Studio Suites provide ample space to unwind, with expansive living areas to make everyone feel at home while Panoramic Waterfront Suites are guest rooms that boast 180 degrees of windows framing Bay Bridge and waterfront views.
Each room is outfitted with cloud-like beds, cozy seating areas, walk-in rain showers, luscious native greenery, and sustainable details like natural textures and reclaimed wood.
1 Hotel San Francisco also celebrates the surrounding community by establishing itself as a place where locals and visitors alike gather to drink and enjoy farm-to-table fare.
Terrene Restaurant showcases a menu by Executive Chef Eric Marting which is rooted in an abundance of local, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients. Fresh ingredients for dishes and cocktails grow on the rooftop chef’s garden while beehives facilitate on-site honey production.
Terrene’s beverage offering highlights an extensive collection of organic agave mezcal and tequila spirits, zero-waste cocktails, ingredients sourced within 50-miles, and cocktails inspired by San Francisco’s neighborhoods and landmarks.
Guests also treasure the gem of the Lobby Farmstand. Here imperfect farm-fresh fruits that would otherwise be discarded are sourced from the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market and available daily.
The Bamford Wellness Spa adds to the pleasantry of the property. Located on our eighth floor, a selection of holistic
treatments, services and classes meant to nurture the mind, body, and spirit are based on a heartfelt connection with nature.
The Field House Gym, located on the second floor, is equipped with state-of-the-art weight training and cardio equipment, including Peloton bikes. And group fitness classes take place with partners LuxFit and Metta Yoga, all which are complimentary for hotel guests.
One can also elevate a stay with Alo Wellness Club, now accessible on the 1 Hotels app. From rejuvenating Pilates to invigorating HIIT and strength training sessions, enjoy a curated selection of premium workout videos led by worldclass instructors.
1 Hotel San Francisco like all properties in the portfolio knows dogs are family too. They warmly welcome fourlegged guests with no extra fee. As a pet-friendly hotel in San Francisco, bring up to two pups along for the adventure.
Right now, the hotel is offering a Fall Equinox special with 30% off your stay and a $50 credit to on-site restaurant Terrene, to ensure the perfect city getaway. For every booking, they also donate to St. Anthony Foundation, helping neighbors in need and making your stay meaningful in more ways than one.
You can even celebrate New Year's Eve in style. Ring in the new year by dancing the night away at the "Midnight Botanica" holiday bash featuring a live band, culinary and cocktail delights, and a front row seat to the fireworks over the Bay.
For more information on this urban oasis, please visit www.1hotels.com/san-francisco
How Xen Sams Built a Broadcast Ecosystem That Brands Can’t Ignore
By Adam Kluger
When A Moment of Xen expanded from its flagship home on New York’s historic 710 WOR to audiences across the country, it marked a new era in talk radio, one where authenticity, purpose, and innovation converge. For creator and host Xen Sams, it isn’t just a show; it’s an ever-evolving ecosystem connecting millions of listeners, brands, and thought leaders coast to coast.
For six consecutive years, A Moment of Xen has held the #1 weekend spot on 710 WOR, a station with more than a century of broadcasting excellence. Founded in 1922, WOR is now over 104 years old , one of America’s most storied radio stations, with a built-in, loyal listenership and a powerhouse primetime lineup that includes icons like Mark Simone and Sean Hannity. Within that distinguished roster, Sams carved out her own signature lane , a magnetic blend of Hollywood access, health, finance, and culture, all filtered through the relatable lens of a millennial mom.
“From film and fashion to pop culture, cryptocurrency, fintech, cannabis, and health, we cover it all through the lens of the millennial mom,” Sams says. Her “experts-on-themicrophone” format and sharp yet soulful delivery have made her one of the most trusted voices in modern talk media.
While the show remains proudly branded under iHeartRadio’s 710 WOR, The Voice of New York, it now reaches audiences well beyond the Tri-State area. A Moment of Xen is heard in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Dallas, with additional markets being added, and airs on WNEW FM 3 Saturdays at 9 AM EST. Across the country, the show continues its signature Saturday-night model, airing between 8 PM and 10 PM in local time zones.
“Congratulations to our dear friend, Xen Sams. She is a natural leader with innovative communication and creative skills,” says
“A Moment of Xen is more than a show; it’s a movement connecting purpose-driven brands with an engaged national audience...”
- Shawn Dougherty
Sean Stockell, CEO of Your Home Digital LLC and Executive Producer of Your Home TV. “Her show consistently ranks in our top 1% with more than 5 million views. Xen collaborates enthusiastically with diverse thought leaders, delivering insightful content across topics that truly resonate.”
The Power of the Ecosystem
Sams has engineered what she calls The Moment of Xen Ecosystem, a synergistic network where advertisers, influencers, experts, and VIPs all collaborate under one storytelling roof. Each recurring segment , whether Hydration with Heart, Clean Collective, or Going Deep ; is designed not as an ad, but as a shared narrative that turns brands into characters audiences genuinely connect with.
“Partnering with Xen for Once Upon A Coconut’s Hydration with Heart segment has been nothing short of legendary,” the brand’s team says. “The energy, authenticity, and passion she brings to both the show and our brand align perfectly with our mission. Seeing the show’s continued growth and national reach is no surprise , it’s exactly where this magic belongs.”
Lumisque Skincare Founder, Lana Kerr , Home of CO₂Lift, echos that praise:
“Congratulations, Xen! We are so proud of you and in awe of your brilliance,” says the Lumisque team. “Your vast knowledge, the genuine way you connect with guests, and how seamlessly you align with our brand values truly set you apart. Your professionalism and warmth elevate every interaction.”
And Shawn Dougherty, Co-Founder & COO of Society Brands — whose portfolio includes Cleanomic, Crunchi.com, Primal Life Organics, Wolf Tactical, to name a few - adds:
“At Society Brands, we partner with founders and storytellers who think beyond the product , and that’s exactly what Xen Sams represents. A Moment of Xen is more than a show; it’s a movement connecting purpose-driven brands with an engaged national audience. As the media ambassador for several companies in our portfolio, Xen brings authenticity, energy, and credibility to every collaboration. Her platform sets a new standard for how mission-based brands connect with consumers.”
Today, A Moment of Xen reaches millions through both terrestrial radio and global digital streaming. Its influencer-driven model extends far beyond airwaves: the show’s Instagram presence generates over 1 million views per month, fueled by a roster of “showfluencers” who amplify each episode’s message.
On the streaming side, A Moment of Xen enjoys worldwide distribution on Your Home TV (OTT platform) — where it has surpassed 5 million views since its 2022 debut — and on Traverse TV (overthe-air broadcast), delivering both accessibility and prestige to a broad, multi-demographic audience reaching over 1.2 million subscribers, over 1700 hotels in Orlando's hotel row.
For sponsors, this integrated reach translates into measurable impact. Sams’ format isn’t about selling, it’s about storytelling. Listeners don’t just tune in; they follow, share, and engage.
“Xen Sams has built a media ecosystem that mirrors the way Society Brands builds companies, rooted in authenticity, community, and performance,” notes Dougherty.
Beyond ratings and reach, Xen Sams is redefining what it means to host. She writes, produces, and directs every segment , ensuring that education, empathy, and entertainment intersect seamlessly.
Her partnership with Dr. Robert Melillo, Founder of The Melillo Centers for Developing Brains and creator of the Brain Blueprint and Right Brain segments, showcases her commitment to content that informs as much as it inspires.
“Collaborating with Xen Sams has been one of the most dynamic media experiences of my career,” says Dr. Melillo. “Through our segments, she’s created a space where neuroscience meets everyday life, making complex topics about brain balance and child development accessible to millions. Xen is not just interviewing experts; she’s elevating public awareness, one conversation at a time.”
Through her ever-expanding network, Sams now oversees an integrated platform that combines:
• Branded Segments with premium partnerships
• Cross-Market Broadcast: flagship station WOR 710 AM in NYC; WNEW FM 3 at 9 AM EST; national airtime across Los Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas, and more to come.
• Influencer Integration: a digital collective of experts, creators, and guests who extend the show’s message to millions monthly.
• Philanthropy & Purpose: initiatives like We Play It Forward and Hydration with Heart, merging entertainment with impact.
As A Moment of Xen continues its national rollout and digital growth, one truth remains constant: Xen Sams is not following trends , she’s creating them. With a century-old flagship station as her foundation, a nationwide radio footprint, and a global digital audience exceeding five million views, she’s built more than a broadcast.
She’s built an ecosystem, one that unites brands, experts, and audiences under a shared purpose: to educate, elevate, and entertain.
In a media landscape hungry for authenticity, Xen Sams delivers it - one moment, one microphone, one meaningful connection at a time.
By Adam Kluger & Gia Carillo
You were one of the original influencers before the word even existed. How has the industry changed since you started, and how do you continue to reinvent yourself?
J: When I first started, the word influencer didn’t even exist. I was just sharing my workouts and lifestyle online because I loved connecting with people, not because I thought it would ever become a career. Back then, everything was organic no rules, no playbooks, just real connection. Today, the industry is much more structured. There are contracts, metrics, strategy, and brands now understand the power of social. To reinvent myself, I stay curious. I experiment with new content, and I listen to my audience. I’ve learned that growth comes from adapting while staying true to who you are. Trends come and go, but authenticity lasts.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to stay motivated and consistent in their health or personal goals?
Stop aiming for perfection, focus on consistency. You don’t need a perfect workout, a perfect meal plan, or a perfect routine. You just need to show up for yourself daily in small ways. I always say: it’s the little habits that build big results. Motivation will always come and go, but discipline and selflove are what keep you moving forward.
What do you think has been the secret to keeping your audience engaged for over a decade in such a fast-changing digital world?
I think the real secret is connection. Trends change, platforms change, but people always want to feel seen and understood. From the beginning, I’ve treated my community like friends I share the highs, the struggles, the funny bloopers, and the lessons I’m learning. I’ve also never been afraid to evolve. When the industry shifted, I shifted with it, whether that meant trying new platforms, new content
formats, or exploring wellness beyond just fitness. But at the core, I’ve stayed true to who I am. Authenticity is what people stick around for, no matter how much the digital world changes.
You’ve inspired millions with your fitness journey. How has your definition of “health” evolved from your early 20s to now?
In my early 20s, I thought health was just about training hard, eating clean, and chasing a certain look. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized health is really about longevity creating habits that allow me to feel energized, balanced, and strong down the road, not just for the moment. To me now, health means managing stress, taking care of my gut, and making sure my body can recover just as well as it performs. It’s about doing things today that my future self will thank me for whether that’s better sleep, lifting weights for strength, or focusing on nutrition that supports my energy long-term. True health isn’t just how many years you live, but the quality of those years. That’s what I care about now: not just adding years to my life, but adding life to my years.
By Adam Kluger
This season, celebrated multidisciplinary designer Anat Fritz expands her creative universe with a capsule collection that captures the essence of timeless resort living. The line features a super-sized sun hat, a canvas beach tote, and a leather embellished linen weekender travel bag —pieces conceived for life by the pool, the ocean, and the radiant sun of a boutique hotel escape.
Since 2005, Fritz has been a force in creative design, seamlessly bridging art, lifestyle, and luxury. Known internationally for her resin art work, couture-inspired knitwear, and lifestyle innovations, she has also built successful beauty and fragrance lines—including her acclaimed signature perfume line and her pioneering bone marrow face cream.
“Obelisk” 21x16x84”
This new summer collection is not merely about accessories; it is a vision of resort elegance distilled into functional design. Each piece reflects Fritz’s trademark balance of artistry and utility—a language she has honed for nearly two decades. The oversized sun hat becomes both protection and statement; the canvas tote embodies coastal ease with cosmopolitan polish; and the weekender bag, marrying linen and leather, is crafted for journeys where style is as essential as practicality.
For Fritz, this collection is a continuation of her signature ethos: to design not just objects, but experiences of living beautifully.
The Metropolitan readers are ahead of the game: Get 50$ off on your first order on her website: www.anatfritzproducts.com
Discount code: https://shorturl.at/GULsb Her art is visible here: www.anatfritz.miami
Amid the chaos of September 11, 2001, thousands fled downward from the towers, desperate to escape. But for some the path was not down - it was up.
One firefighter, carrying nothing but his gear and a determination stronger than fear, began climbing the endless stairs his radio crackled with voices of confusion and despair but his mind was fixed on one thing: the people trapped above. Step after step he rose into the smoke, knowing each flight bought him closer to dangerand closer to those who needed him.
Behind him, bothers in uniform followed silhouettes against the flames, they leaned on one another, each step heavy but fuelled by courage. At one point, he found a woman too weak to walk. Without hesitation, he lifted her into his arms and continued upward, though his legs trembled beneath the weight of both her and the impossible task ahead.
Outside, the nation watched in horror as the towers burned - red , black, and gold like in this painting. A country shaped like the figure of fire itself, scarred forever by what was unfolding.
The firefighters never came back down. His last step, immortalised in memory, were not of escape but of sacrifice. His climb was not in vain - because though his body was lost, his story like those of so many others, became a part of the great mosaic of faces
Each tiny portrait in this painting is a soul, a name, a life, together, they form the fabric of a nation wounded but unbroken. And among them, the firefighter’s face rests, reminding us that the saddest stories of 9/11 are also the bravest.
Original State ( unlit / normal light ) (below)
In its natural state, the painting has an earthy solemn atmosphere. The Statue of Liberty stands tall in the center, framed by the vertical mesh structures that evoke The Twin Towers. The Background is textured with ochre, beige and rust tunes, resembling aged stone or ash from above thread of red, white and blue hang downward, symbolising both patriotism and the nation’s tears. Below, two hands reach toward one another, tenderly holding a small American flag. The scene feels reverent, reflective, and steady - a great memorial to resilience.
Illuminated State ( against the light ) (above)
When this piece is placed against the light, the painting transforms dramatically. The once muted background ignites with reds, oranges and yellows, like fire and explosions engulfing the Towers, still faintly visible through the mesh, now appear consumed with flames and chaos echoing their collapse on 9/11. The Statue remains standing but is now surrounded by destruction embodying freedom under attack. The strands of threads of red, white and blue resemble our American flag and unity we shared in the that tragic day and on the bottom the hands continue continue holding the flag - fragile but unwavering. A symbol of unity and endurance amidst tragedy.
FINISHING TOUCH
Sculpture Artist
By Gia Carillo
ew journeys trace a bolder arc from writing graffiti to creating timeless statues than that of Joe Caserta. Growing up in the Bronx, Joe’s first artistic spark came from subway cars covered in vividly colored letters. The images racing past the windows of his Bronx apartment turned the trains themselves into rolling galleries. Always inspired by art, he studied mechanical drawing and architecture in high school and college, and earned his grit working as a construction worker and laborer on the Railroad. His passion was in building things and in his early career he spent his days erecting skyscrapers in New York City before an injury forced a career changing pivot that sent him back to school to learn computer science—an unexpected detour that would change his life forever.
Joe combined his artistic creativity, Bronx grit, and data science know-how, and after working in IT for several years, began reinventing the way people interact with data. In 2001 Joe founded and built his eponymous consultancy, Caserta, spending two decades reimagining data engineering, architecting cloud-native data warehouses, and co-authoring the seminal Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit. Fortune 500 companies started adopting his playbooks as a best practice and in 2022 McKinsey & Company took notice and acquired his firm, installing Joe as Partner to scale his methods as a global leader. From that perch Joe championed AI driven solutions and proselytized the idea that data architecture should be as deliberate, and as beautiful, as any substantial work of art.
During a trip to Italy, the spark for art re-ignited: standing before Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne, Joe fell irrevocably in love with sculpture and immediately began studying at New York Academy of Art, Florence Academy of Art, Art Students League, and Lyme Academy to master classical figurative sculpture techniques.
In 2025, now with several years of sculpture experience, Joe retired from his “day job”, launched Caserta Studios, and is now fully dedicated to his sculpture work – true to form. He is now experimenting with AI and robotics to merge centuries-old craftsmanship with tomorrow’s tooling, convinced that he can democratize fine art just as he democratized data analytics. Joe fuses data era precision with Rodin-era passion, proving once more that for Joe Caserta, transformation is both a vocation and a medium. The result is a late-career renaissance that enables him to make interesting world-class art for his clients.
For commissions or inquiries follow Joe Caserta on Instagram @casertajoe or contact him at casertastudios.com
Nick Ghafari was born in Kabul, Afghanistan and migrated to the United States after the Soviet invasion of 1979. He was heavily influenced by German Expressionism early on in his career; paired with his experiences of war and migration, they have shaped his philosophy on life and expression as an artist. Nick currently resides in Washington DC where he continues to evolve and refine his style of artistic expression.
An interview with counterculture’s chronicler
By Gia Carillo
When one imagines the sixties, what may come to mind are hippies, peace and love, antiwar protests, the Civil Rights Movement, the assassination of JFK, the moon landing, psychedelic culture, and more. A collage of fringe, tie-dyed shirts, cardboard protest signs, and the hum of an amp is what immediately blanketed my vision. However, The Last Great Dream
is about that and so much more. Dennis McNally is an author, historian, and music publicist who came to study counterculture by recognizing his absence from it. And it is because of this generational longing that he was able to take decades of research and collapse it into one book that archives the pulse of a major cultural revolution in America before it fades into nostalgia.
Q: Was there a moment in your research that made you reconsider your own relationship with the counterculture?
A: I have theorized that I’ve studied the counterculture for 50 years now (!) because I missed the party….I was in the backwoods of Maine when I saw pictures of the Be-In and found it interesting. After that, I encountered stories I thought needed telling.
California had to be the canvas of this novel because it isn’t just a backdrop, but the experiment itself. McNally’s geography lesson doubles as philosophy, as he analyzes the collaboration of breeding risk-taking and tolerance from the Gold Rush, the natural openness of the landscape, and the West Coast fluidity versus that of the rigid East Coast intellectualism. San Francisco became a city built by gamblers, artists, and outcasts, who utilized the sense of lawlessness to foster a cultural revolution.
Q: Do you think the counterculture could have happened anywhere else, or was California the key to making it possible?
A: I think California, and more specifically San Francisco, was essential. It has a history of tolerance of looseness (because it was founded by people gambling on finding gold, and not necessarily on conventional business behavior). And it stayed that way – prostitution was legal until 1917, for instance. Also, San Francisco relates to nature way more than other American cities. It welcomed poets, gay people, and so forth.
McNally argues that art was the activism during this time. Figures like Ginsberg and Ferlinghetti did not protest separately from performance, and poetry readings and free concerts all blurred boundaries between personal liberation and political statement.
Ergo, living freely became politics in and of itself. At this time, the line between artist and audience collapsed, supporting McNally’s idea of authenticity: political power born from spontaneity, not structure.
Q: You trace how art, music, and politics intertwined. Do you think that was organic — or were artists consciously thinking of themselves as activists?
A: I agree with you that it was organic, that is to say that the artists I talk about had values that generally left them on the left side of the political divide – at least to the extent of individual rights. Their activism or lack thereof was another matter.
In the sixties, women like Pauline Oliveros, Jay DeFeo, and Anna Halprin shaped the cultural revolution. The mid-century West Coast scene was one of the first to give women visible artistic agency, and in doing so, mirrored the broader countercultural ethos. Gender equality in art began dismantling the social, artistic hierarchy. McNally draws these women into the spotlight to showcase their influence and talent after being erased from mainstream stories. The restoration of these values only reintroduces us to how these artists redefined the meaning of art.
Q: Many of the women in this narrative (Diane di Prima, Anna Halprin, Jay DeFeo) are often under-recognized in mainstream histories. How did you decide which women’s voices to foreground?
A: One of my fellow graduate students busted my book “On Highway 61” because it’s mostly men, except for Bessie Smith. As I said, that was based on the artists who had the most influence. I was conscious of this going into “The Last Great Dream,” and fortunately, by the 1950s and after, there were lots of important women artists, from Jay to Pauline Oliveros and Joan Baez. But I chose who was important regardless of gender. Jay simply painted the most important picture in San Francisco history – she had to be included. Etc.
Every rebellion risks being swallowed by the system it opposes. Realism is a strength in historians, and McNally harbors a particular skill in presenting the 60s in a way that is not romanticized. In The Last Great Dream, he recognizes the commercialization of “hippie chic” and how capitalism ultimately overwrote the aesthetics of rebellion.
Q: Do you think commodification (the “selling” of hippie culture) was inevitable, or could it have been resisted?
A: It was certainly resisted by the Diggers, who made a very sound critique of consumerism, whether hippie or not. But American culture is fundamentally oriented to capitalism and profit, and in the end, that held sway.
A question persists when reading this work in the modern day: can there still be counterculture in a culture that records everything? Kerouac wrote about America on the road, and that road still symbolizes possibility despite the world being noisier and more surveilled. Kerouac’s era of anonymity functions in tandem with McNally’s observation that the 60s thrived “out of sight.” This begs the question of whether privacy is a necessary condition for authenticity.
Q: In your book, you show how music, politics, and counterculture were inseparable in the '50s and '60s. Do you see any parallels with today’s generation — in hip hop, indie, or even social media movements — or is that kind of cultural fusion harder to find now?
A: The Haight scene blossomed out of the sight of the media. In these days of 24/7/60 seconds media attention, nothing is out of sight. So no, I don’t quite see how it would happen in any sort of coherent way. Darn it.’
The Last Great Dream is a combination of archive and elegy. Rendered in truth, McNally created a novel that harbors the idea of preservation in time. While he may have missed the era that was the sixties, his research and storytelling make it so the rest of us won’t have to. This way of keeping a dream alive while simultaneously acknowledging its fragility is the great takeaway: the dream is about every generation’s longing for a moment when art, politics, and humanity felt fruitful.
By Gia Carillo
On a scorching August morning, Jill Woodward set out across the desert toward Black Rock City, Nevada. She, like many others, trekked through temperatures nearing 100℉ to attend the Burning Man festival. Most people's understanding of this event comes from social media. Their pages are flooded with dusty dreamscapes of decorated neon bikes and dancers bathed in sunset fire. However, for Jill Woodward, the pictures barely scratch the surface: “Every part of Burning Man cannot be captured on camera. It’s not just an Instagram backdrop.”
While awareness of the event is important to the artistic community, the shared images online are somewhat controversial. However, the main theme of this festival is to appreciate the beauty of the ephemeral. Therefore, its permanent reflection on the internet only negates the mortality of each piece and derails the thematic messages of the artists. Granted, artists may not mind; it’s simply a fact of our dependence on technology. Ultimately the argument is simple: how can the celebration of impermanence matter when posted on Instagram? “It’s a reflection of life cycles — create, enjoy, burn, start over,” Woodward says. The images might freeze a single moment of beauty, but the real story is impermanence. Burning Man, after all, ends with fire.
Burning Man isn't for the faint of heart – “The desert is trying to kill you,” Woodward laughs — a phrase she didn’t coin, but confirms fits. The Nevada desert can reach highs near 100℉ by day and lows around 50℉ at night. “It’s not just about the heat,” Jill explains. “It can be cold, windy, or serene. Every year, the desert decides how generous it wants to be.” Winds during this year reached up to 50 mph, creating strong dust storms.
After years in the desert, Woodward has learned the tricks of survival: using dry ice to cool food, wrapping bikes to protect from dust, and, best of all, volunteering. She suggests, “You can do a day or two and feel great, or join the staff and have your basic needs met.” In a temporary land, service becomes its own shelter.
In the end, Burning Man resists being captured. Jill Woodward may have attempted to hold images close to her heart, she makes it clear that the festival is meant to be burned into memory– not pixels. Perhaps this appreciation for mortality is a needed reset for our socialmedia-clinging generation. From the unimaginable weather conditions to entering a world where the 80s exist in the 21st century, it is a reminder that while the elements try to kill you, humanity continues to build, burn, build.
Lisa, what is Shelf Life of a Trophy Wife about?
The book is about coming to terms with the past and making peace with myself and my decisions. It’s a raw peeling of a many layered onion that brings tears of understanding to the events that shaped my life. As the back of the book says: “To the outside world, Lisa Kaye Rayner seemed to have it all. But beneath the picture-perfect veneer of her Southern Baptist upbringing were the haunting secrets that she kept. After three failed marriages and one failed suicide attempt, she found herself in the office of a psychiatrist who began to chip away at the portrait of perfection she so carefully painted.Shelf Life of a Trophy Wife is a heartfelt and harrowing memoir that reveals the unspoken costs of fitting in, along with the struggles that come with polishing our past, and a reminder that the dust always settles in the end."
Was this a difficult book to write?
It was not difficult to write the book, but it was difficult to go back and read it…the words flowed but the rawness of the revelations — and a true look at what I had experienced, still catches me off-guard.
Did you finding writing about past family trauma and abuse therapeutic?
I wish I could say yes, but I am still trying to process the reality of it all. When people read the book, they say: “wow- it’s a wonder you survived any of these things!” And it makes me stop and ask myself— why am I still standing.
Any advice to other victims of abuse out there? I am not one to offer advice; that is best left to the professionals.
What do you hope the reader will take away from the book?
I am here to tell them that everything happens for a reason- you just have to learn to listen to the messages and red flags that come your way. I also hope that by telling my story, I will
Kaye Rayner
By Adam Kluger
take away some of the heartache that comes from being a survivor…it helps knowing that you are not alone.
One of your husbands, and current close friend, is CNN personality and cable TV pioneer Bill Tush? How did Bill contribute to the book and talk a little about the relationship.
Bill was my third husband— and now my favorite ex. He was also part of the story of my abuse. But he has apologized to me and to the girls for his past transgressions against us and we are again a happy dysfunctional family.
What does Bill think about the book?
As he says on the back cover: “Why would she make this stuff up? That’s a line that came to mind when I read this harrowing memoir by Lisa Rayner—my favorite (and third) ex-wife. While I might have preferred some of the tales she tells about me to be kept private, I guess that’s not happening now! So I might as well admit, they are all true. The most sobering thing anyone can see
is a reflection of themselves at their worst. Lisa, thank you for reminding me why I quit drinking, for humbling me in the aftermath, and for writing this book that will hopefully help others in need, or in support of finally revealing the truth.”
What about your daughters and other members of your family?
My daughters are very proud of me — for being brave enough to tell my story. And it has brought us closer. They both are working with me on my book tour…as far as my family: my sister Kim Lister has been my biggest supporter. And my Neice and nephews are also very proud of my book. My mother and father have not read it.
Why is Trophy Wife the perfect summer read?
It has everything a summer read should have: sex, conflict, tears, laughter…I’ve been told it reads like a novel, so there’s that.
Who do you think this book will appeal to? I originally thought it would be for Trophy Wife and for the book club set, but am surprised at the 20 something girls who have embraced the boldness of the story.
Any plans to develop it into a made for TV movie?
Yes, I have had a few Hollywood producers knocking at my door.
Aside from the book what else are you up to?
I am still working as a publicist and PR strategist and have a couple of very highprofile clients that I work with. I also have a very high profile project in the works that I am not at liberty to discuss at this point.
Any future book projects in the offing?
Yes! I am working on a novel—fiction this time, but it is based on narcissistic sociopaths— in the vein of “American Psycho”, but told from the survivors point of view.
Can you truly recover from addiction and not just manage it for life? In Experiencing Transcendence: The Freedom of Recovering from Addiction and Trauma (released October 2025), leading addiction recovery expert Richard Taite and global resilience researcher Constance Scharff, PhD, make a bold claim: complete recovery is possible. Unlike traditional programs that frame addiction as a chronic illness requiring lifelong abstinence, Experiencing Transcendence reimagines recovery as a transformative process, one that leads to a state of wholeness, presence, and love so complete that a person can live fully, freely, and without fear of relapse. Once the underlying trauma is healed, the need to self-medicate disappears. Taite and Scharff aim to revolutionize how addiction and trauma are treated, shifting care toward love-based, outcomes-driven practices that improve lives.
“Recovery should not feel like a life sentence,” says Richard Taite. “This book will change the way we think about addiction treatment, showing that real freedom is possible when recovery centers on love, connection, and true healing.”
Built around the Stages of Change model, the book introduces a newly defined sixth stage, Transcendence, which moves readers beyond maintenance into a joyful state of self-acceptance and empowerment. Through composite case studies, neuroscience insights, and practical exercises, the authors show how resilience, compassion, and agape (unconditional) love are the gateways to permanent transformation.
“Addiction and trauma do not have to define your life,” adds Dr. Constance Scharff. “Once people experience self-compassion and connection, they can transcend their pain and live in genuine freedom.”
• Challenges the long-held “chronic illness” model of addiction treatment
• Reframes recovery as achievable, complete, and deeply joyful
• Integrates trauma healing, neuroscience, and lived experience
• Provides a replicable framework for individuals and treatment centers to achieve lasting freedom
• Addiction and trauma recovery as complete and transformative
• The Sixth Stage of Change: Transcendence
• Resilience, compassion, and agape love as pathways to healing
• Post-traumatic growth and reclaimed self-agency through connection and purpose
About the Authors:
Richard Taite is a nationally recognized addiction recovery expert, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. He founded Cliffside Malibu (sold in 2018) and now serves as founder and executive chairman of Carrara Treatment Wellness & Spa, as well as executive chairman of 1 Method Centers, an in-network insurance affordable recovery program. He also hosts the fast-growing podcast We’re Out of Time, which has surpassed 2 million YouTube views and consistently ranks among the top 10 on Apple Podcasts, including #1 in Mental Health and Health & Fitness. Taite has been voted one of the 500 most influential people in Los Angeles by LA Business Journal (2025), featured on Real Time with Bill Maher, Fox News, Newsweek, Elizabeth Vargas Reports, America’s Hope with Kelly Wright, Inc., Forbes, People Magazine, the cover of Los Angeles Business Journal, among many others.
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Constance Scharff, PhD, is the founder and director of The Human Resilience Project and an award-winning author and explorer. Her work focuses on global mental health and human resilience at the intersection of climate change, conflict, and trauma recovery. She has led Explorers Club Flag and Rolex-affiliated expeditions worldwide and champions the integration of indigenous healing practices into global wellness strategies. Learn more at www.THRProject.com.
For more information, please visit www.carraratreatment.com
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There are plenty of stories surrounding the myth that is Tupac Shakur's life. Biographies and documentaries have been created to retell the life of this influential MC; however, Jeff Pearlman felt that there were gaps in this narrative that needed to be filled. Despite thousands already chronicling Tupac’s story, a sportswriter looked deeper. Only God Can Judge Me is a monumental reflection built from 652 interviews, each gathered to reframe Tupac not as an idol or a tragedy, but as a human being seen through the eyes of his witnesses.
Jeff Pearlman’s reporting process is nothing short of remarkable. When asked about his exhaustive pursuit, he replied, “My mantra through two decades of book writing is: Call everyone. E-v-e-r-y-o-n-e. Find the old school yearbooks and track down every classmate. Buy the old CDs, scour the liner notes, call everyone. Not just Suge Knight and Snoop — the production assistant, the kid mopping the floor, the backup sound engineer. Because while Tupac (were he alive) might not remember those folks, those folks would remember Tupac.”
Because of this relentless commitment to detail, Only God Can Judge Me reveals moments that have never surfaced. When Pearlman contacted the EMT who first reached Tupac at Quad Studios and asked whether Tupac had accidentally shot himself in the testicles, the man’s first response wasn’t “yes” or “no.” It was: “Holy shit, no one has ever called me before. How did you find me?”
It’s Pearlman’s precision and patience that elevate the book beyond biography. His attention to place and context restores Tupac’s complexity, illustrating that he was not just a victim, but a reflection of his time.
The “calling everyone” dogma also requires tact and an understanding of personal limits. Another reason Pearlman’s work feels like a breath of fresh air in the world of biography is his self-awareness.
“He's a cultural icon. A Black icon. A Black cultural hip-hop icon. I am a white sports writer. So I very much needed to think about my approach, and also a level of humility. This is not my space—I'm a visitor to it.”
Too often, writers act with entitlement toward a subject they’ve merely studied. Just because they’ve done the research, they believe they’ve earned
Only God Can Judge Me, by Jeffrey Pearlman, reevaluates the legend of Tupac Shakur
By Gia Carillo
authority. Pearlman erased that impulse. For him, humility becomes a journalistic strategy—the act of listening as a form of authorship. The result is a collection of voices narrating a shared experience rather than an imposed interpretation. In an age where cultural appropriation is a constant debate, Pearlman’s restraint and allyship read as a rare and unadulterated form of respect.
As Robert Penn Warren once wrote, “You live through that little piece of time that is yours, but that piece of time is not only your own life, it is the summingup of all the other lives that are simultaneous with yours. It is, in other words—History.”
This sentiment defines Pearlman’s achievement in Only God Can Judge Me: not solely the chronicle of one man, but the intersection of all the lives that crossed with his.
When reimagining mortality, it is common to mourn what might have been. Another layer of tragedy lies in all that was lost with his early death. Early death mythologizes artists like Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and Amy Winehouse. But according to Pearlman, Tupac’s immortality lies in both the body of his work and the haunting absence of what he never got to do. His insight reframes the myth—Tupac’s legend is not only what he left behind, but what the world was deprived of. Now, we are presented with a new kind of commentary—a precarious balance between biography and what Pearlman calls cultural necromancy. How does one write a tragedy without writing a eulogy?
Tupac spoke out about the hypocrisy of wealth in America, questioning how someone could win $36 million in the lottery while others starved on the streets, and how millionaires could be celebrated as “humanitarians” in a world filled with poverty. Decades later, those same inequities persist. The rarity of genuine social commentary in today’s music only amplifies Tupac’s value within the industry. Through his art, he became a moral compass for the common man—promoting anti-greed, procommunity thinking: “They got money for wars but can’t feed the poor.”
In part, his ideology functioned as both emotional and political activism, where empathy was not weakness but rebellion. During our interview, I asked Pearlman,
“Do you think his outspokenness—his refusal to filter himself—ultimately put him in more danger and contributed to his demise? Or do you feel that his fearlessness was necessary, that you wouldn’t want it any other way because those raw messages were essential for change?”
He replied, “Tupac refused to hold back. Ever, ever, ever. It was 500 mph passion, which made for amazing art, but also a very short life. Truly, his willingness to stare down cops, to call out murderers, to stand up to authority was the stuff of Malcolm X, and Gloria Steinem, and MLK. But he also never, ever, ever took his foot off the gas pedal.” In that sense, what began as an attempt to fill the gaps becomes a testament to how one voice can echo through hundreds.
Only God Can Judge Me isn’t about myth-making— it’s about the power of witness. Pearlman’s insight reveals the humanity beneath the legend and how one life can inspire a collective memory through 652 voices. If Tupac rapped “from the stomach,” Pearlman writes from the ears. His methodical tenderness in handling others’ stories forms a new kind of collective authorship—a biography not of one man, but of those who remember him and his message.
“And it's crazy, it seems it'll never let up, but please you got to keep your head up”
- Tupac Shakur
World-Renowned Clinician, Professor, Brain Researcher, Best-Selling Author
r. Robert Melillo is a leading expert in developmental neurological conditions such as ADHD, autism, OCD, tics, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression in both children and adults. With extensive knowledge of brain function, he has perfected a noninvasive, multimodal method to significantly improve and correct many neurological disorders. His expertise in functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology is unparalleled, backed by 30 years as a clinician, professor, brain researcher, and bestselling
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author. His recently released 3rd edition book, Disconnected Kids, is a cornerstone in its genre, translated into 18 languages. Cofounder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers and developer of the Melillo Method®, he also runs the Melillo Center for Developing Minds in NY. Dr. Melillo directs the National Institute for Brain and Rehabilitation Sciences and co-hosts the web series Disconnected Kids Reconnected Families with his wife Carolyn, boasting over 3 million views. He also hosts The Melillo Method Podcast, Everything Brain. Dr. Melillo is a top expert in understanding and helping kids with language delays, like nonspeaking autism, find their voice while keeping their gifts.
r. Michael Gerling is an orthopedic surgeon modernizing the approach to joint and spinal disorders with a unique perspective and research driven results. Whether its chronic arthritis or recent injuries, joint and spine treatment is experiencing a new renaissance of treatment using regenerative medicine, harnessing and amplifying the body’s natural ability to heal. Biologic products in the body are signaled and triggered to accelerate the normal healing process in ligaments and tendons, joint cartilage and disks in the spine. These new techniques amplify the body’s natural processes to restore each component of the musculoskeletal system, to reduce pain, improve function and avoid surgery whenever possible.
Traditional orthopedic care for arthritis and injuries included a conservative tier of treatment with physical therapy and medications. Injections were used to deliver anti-inflammatory steroids when appropriate which can blunt natural healing and helpful inflammation. After failing early westernized non-operative care, patients were relegated to surgical options and rarely offered alternatives. Some doctors have embraced a holistic approach to care employing psychological therapy and other options such as acupuncture, chiropractic care and massage. Eastern or ancient techniques including tai chi, yoga, meditation, ceremonial healers and spiritual guidance are sometimes considered without significant clarity of their role and without substantial research foundation.
Modern advancements have now opened a new layer of care between conservative care and surgery, that can reverse the aging process or accelerate healing of damaged mucles, ligaments and joints. Regenerative medicine can be used in lieu of surgery and can also accelerate healing in surgical wounds. Orthopedic surgeons are now injecting products such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), Stem Cells harvested from your own body or processed from donors in a lab, and exosomes along with other biological agents that stimulate natural healing.
As the founder and chief surgeon of the Gerling Institute, Dr. Gerling is a world renowned spinal surgeon dedicated to revolutionizing the treatment of orthopedic and spinal conditions with groundbreaking, patient-centered techniques that emphasize rapid recovery, low complication rates, and consistent longterm success. He was initially focused on developing and teaching minimally invasive surgical techniques that minimize tissue damage from surgery while still delivering comparable or even superior interventions for treating spinal disorders. Incisions are usually less than an inch and often times less than half an inch for endoscopic surgeries that accomplish similar goals, removing damaged disks and bone spurs to unpinch nerves in the spine. These surgeries are possible in the neck, upper and lower back and even the pelvis. According to Dr. Gerling, “these surgeries have revolutionized care, moving large scale surgery from long hospitalized recoveries to ambulatory surgeries with minimal complications”. Though
"Regenerative medicine is transforming spine care, offering cutting-edge biologic treatmentslike stem cells, PRP, and exosome therapy—that harness the body's own healing potential. By leveraging these advancements, we can often restore spinal health without the need for invasive procedures, providing a sophisticated, natural approach to long-term wellness."
Dr. Michael Gerling, MD
he still has occasional need to do large scale reconstructive spine surgeries with implants, he says “fusions are less and less relevant in the modern era”.
Many years ago, Dr. Gerling envisioned an institute offering a full spectrum of care, including the addition of regenerative medicine as a middle tier of highly effective options that could supplant the need for surgery and restore musculoskeletal health at an earlier stage of disease. Rather than waiting for degeneration to take over, one could treat joint and spinal problems before permanent damage occurs. “In some cases the cascade of joint breakdown can be reversed with regenerative interventions”, according to the doctor, adding that it is “important that we catch it early”. Though the technology has been available for years, new interventions and options are rapidly evolving. The Gerling Institute has a full research arm with guidance from the internationally renowned scientist, Zorica Buser, PhD, a true thought leader in regenerative spine care. The team has made tremendous contributions to the field’s scientific literature and played instrumental roles in international research trials. Ongoing trials for new regenerative therapies for the
spine are performed in the Gerling Institute with enrollment ongoing for patients that qualify. These studies give patients access to the most cutting edge advancements that are proven to be safe and still undergoing trials for clinical efficacy.
A native of Canada, Dr. Gerling's career in spine surgery has been shaped by the guidance of some of the most esteemed figures in the field. He was fortunate to be trained under the mentorship of Dr. Henry Bohlman, widely regarded as the "godfather" of spinal surgery at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. During his time at Case Western, Dr. Gerling was exposed to numerous surgical innovations that have since become the foundation of modern spinal procedures. His training also included extensive work with leading plastic surgeons, focusing on advanced techniques for cosmetic closures of surgical wounds.
Dr. Gerling is widely recognized as a pioneer in endoscopic spine surgery, with a particular focus on endoscopic discectomies, spinal fusions, and minimally invasive procedures. Every year,
he performs hundreds of endoscopic spine surgeries, each characterized by remarkably low complication rates, minimal narcotic use, cosmetic closures, and rapid recovery times. His work is renowned for restoring patients to a full and active life with minimal disruption, all while utilizing the most cutting-edge techniques available in spine surgery.
Dr. Gerling's dedication to advancing spine surgery doesn't stop at the operating table. He is deeply committed to academic research, education, and global collaboration. As a highly respected figure in the spine care community, he has contributed extensively to surgical societies, helping to shape the future of spine care through his leadership and involvement in the development of new
techniques and protocols. His leadership roles include serving as President of the Federation of Spine Associations (FOSA) and Past President of the Brooklyn Orthopedic Society. Dr. Gerling also held prominent positions as Chairman of Education and Board Member of the Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS), where he works with international experts to further the understanding and treatment of cervical spine conditions. Additionally, he is an active committee member for the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, CSRS, the North American Spine Society (NASS), and the Lumbar Spine Research Society (LSRS). His contributions to the field are further reflected in his extensive publication history, with more than 40 peer-reviewed articles that showcase his ongoing commitment to advancing spine care. Dr. Gerling's work continues to influence and inspire both surgeons and patients around the world.
While his achievements and accolades speak volumes, Dr. Gerling is perhaps best known for the exceptional relationships he forms with his patients. Patient care is at the core of his practice. He believes in a deeply engaged, collaborative approach to spine care, ensuring that each patient fully understands their diagnosis, treatment options, and the process of recovery. Dr. Gerling's philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach mindful of the physical, emotional, spiritual and mental state of his patients. He leads with education, communication, and personalized treatment plans, all designed to empower patients to make the best possible decisions for their health and well-being.
"Regenerative medicine is transforming spine care, offering cutting-edge biologic treatmentslike stem cells, PRP, and exosome therapy— that harness the body's own healing potential. By leveraging these advancements, we can often restore spinal health without the need for invasive procedures, providing a sophisticated, natural approach to long-term wellness.
Expertise in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery:
Dr. Gerling is a pioneer in endoscopic spine procedures, performing hundreds of minimally invasive surgeries annually with exceptional results. 1 2 3 4
Commitment to Rapid Recovery: His use of advanced surgical techniques ensures faster recovery times, fewer complications, and minimal disruption to patients' lives
International Leader in Spine Surgery: With leadership roles in top surgical societies and extensive academic contributions, Dr. Gerling is a recognized authority in spine care.
Patient-Centered Care:
Dr. Gerling's approach goes beyond surgery, offering a compassionate and educational environment for patients throughout their care journey.
CONNECT WITH DR. GERLING
For consultations, appointments, or to learn more about Dr. Gerling's expertise in spine care, please don't hesitate to contact us.
www.gerlinginstitute.com
our Home TV, the fast-growing OTT network known for accessible, family-friendly content, has announced a strategic partnership with Epype, a mobile-first digital engagement platform designed to simplify and amplify brand and content connectivity. The goal? To make mobile sharing as seamless as a tap—literally.
The collaboration gives Your Home TV’s content creators, brands, and marketers a powerful tool to instantly share their streaming programs, ecommerce links, offers, and contact information without the friction of traditional apps or multi-platform clutter.
“We’re introducing a streamlined solution that allows businesses to connect with customers and distribute content seamlessly,” said Sean Stockell, CEO of Your Home Digital. “That’s the genius behind Epype.”
Epype acts like a digital Swiss army knife— packaging images, offers, videos, social handles, and ecommerce links into one shareable mobile interface. For content creators and media partners on Your Home TV, that means their shows and promotions can now be shared instantly to audiences across the globe with a single tap—no apps, no downloads, just direct digital engagement.
This is a timely solution for brands and content distributors grappling with the fragmentation of digital platforms and the overhead of maintaining multiple engagement tools. By offering a centralized, no-code way to promote programs and offers across mobile, Epype removes complexity while maximizing reach.
“Businesses are overwhelmed by platform overload,” Stockell added. “With Epype, we’ve centralized the process and accelerated mobile sharing for everyone on our network.”
Since its 2022 launch, Your Home TV has carved out a growing niche in the OTT space with 1,100 programs, 112 million views, and global accessibility via mobile and Rokuconnected TVs. Featuring short-form content across 20+ genres—from cooking to sports— the network offers both viewers and creators a cost-effective way to produce and consume streaming entertainment.
Now, with Epype embedded into its sharing infrastructure, the platform is giving creators the distribution velocity they've needed all along.
“Epype will enable Your Home TV content creators, brands, and media partners to share programs and offers in under 30 seconds,” said Steve Eastland, CEO of Epype. “No app, no hassle—just real-time engagement.”
This move reflects a growing trend among streaming and content platforms: streamlined, app-free engagement. With audiences increasingly mobile and attentionfragmented, reducing the number of steps between discovery and action is more than convenience—it’s a competitive edge.
For marketers, sales teams, and media personalities like Xen Sams, the value is obvious.
“Epype’s intuitive, mobile-first tech stack allows us to connect across all digital touchpoints while maintaining authenticity, speed, and ROI,” said Sams, host of A Moment of Xen on iHeartMedia’s 710 WOR. “It’s a gamechanger.”
Together, Epype and Your Home TV are capitalizing on a media reality where mobile isn’t just a channel—it’s the channel. The ability to instantly share branded content, campaigns, and direct offers—without asking users to jump through hoops—is the kind of streamlined engagement that modern marketers crave.
As Epype CEO Steve Eastland puts it:
“We started by asking, what if businesses could share news, programs, or offers instantly with vast mobile audiences? With Epype, the answer is now clear—and the results are astounding.”
began by disrupting the home industry, now focuses on family-friendly program streaming worldwide
By Adam Kluger
ean Stockell launched Your Home Digital in 2015, following a 32-year career in mortgage lending and community banking. He achieved significant success in banking and managed U.S. mortgage production offices in the Midwest and Southeast before a career pivot. Stockell has an entrepreneurial spirit and unique ability to navigate change.
The backstory: Stockell began developing technology for home consumers in 1994, before the Internet emerged as a driving force. His first product was called, LoanSource. It was a floppy disk system, which loaded onto a home PC and provided an easy-to-use guide through the mortgage process. Stockell described his first real-tech endeavor as an experience similar to using TurboTax, but it focused on the home financing industry instead. Stockell said, “it was powerful because it included an interface with a large regional bank, which just happened to be the first beta partner with Freddie Mac on the Loan Prospector automated underwriting system.
Stockell said, “LoanSource included a glossary of real estate terms, a quick guide to compare loan products side-by-side, closing cost estimates, payment calculator, forms to complete for employment and asset verification, the convenient ability to submit a loan application in minutes from a home computer, and receive an automated underwriting loan decision quickly.” He added, “this had never been done before. Our system was developed before the launch of Quicken, Ditech, LendingTree, or Rocket. LoanSource was revolutionary, but timing and partnership issues derailed the project. This was a significant learning experience for me, which led to understanding the importance of ownership control, and extreme caution in partner selection for the future.”
Your Home Digital introduced YourHome1Source.com to the U.S. market in October of 2015, as the nation’s first All-Things-Home website. This extensive home resource portal provides a myriad of home topics and products. It is FREE for site visitors with no registration requirements, no fees, no questions to answer, and no apps to download. YourHome1Source offers about 400 original articles, books and guides, photo galleries for home ideas, DIY resources, links to lenders, insurance providers, home movers, home security, warranty, inspection, home furnishings, and online store. It’s truly a one-stopshop. YourHome1Source expanded into video production and hosting in 2016, launching Your Home TV with more than 200 home product videos. Stockell said, “this was our gateway into global streaming.”
Your Home TV launched in 2022. It is a browser-based global streaming network available on Roku and easily accessed via mobile device worldwide. “It’s a fast-growing OTT platform because Your Home TV focuses on non-scripted original content, not re-run TV series or old movies.”, says Stockell. “Your Home TV is best described as the upstreaming network, because we serve brands, influencers, and upand-coming filmmakers. We’re quite different from the large brand CTV (connected TV) brands like Netflix, Paramount+, or Amazon Prime. Your Home TV features short-run programs, i.e., five to fifteen minutes and ideally serves today’s viewers on mobile devices.” Your Home TV has scaled by forming more than 50 alliances with media partners involved with content creation and distribution though the network.
Board Director, Miles Robinson, says, "I am excited about what founder, Sean Stockell and his passionate team of technology and media partners have created. Their collaboration of producers, influencers, and filmmakers is truly revolutionary in the streaming industry. Your Home TV provides audiences with genuine stories, experiences to cherish,
"Your Home TV is thriving because our network carries original and unique content. We're not limited to rerun content which most streaming networks carry, like redundant movies, documentaries, or television series reruns. Our network covers a multitude of topics and features emerging creative producers who are often overlooked or excluded by megastream outlets. Viewers find our shows about Real People, Real Stories, and Real Life to be compelling. They connect with and develop a relationship with
these stories. Binge watching of our programs is common. It's a wonderful experience, our producers and audience connecting. Your Home TV provides a low cost, high visibility gateway for leading brands to reach new audiences through streaming. Our global streaming network is affordable for brands, influencers, filmmakers, and advertisers to reach millions of viewers in the U.S. and abroad via Your Home TV." says, Sean Stockell, founder and executive producer of Your Home TV.
OUR SERVICES:
Provide FAST Channel Build, Tech Support, Production Resources, and Marketing Bundle (Turnkey Streaming)
1,000+ Shows Published Since 2022
Family Friendly Content Across 20 Genres. Non-Scripted, Short-run, Educational and Experiential Programs More Topics and Titles in Production
55 SIGNED PARTNERSHIPS, 46 CHANNELS ALREADY LAUNCHED: CONTENT: MEDIA:
iHeartRadio, Uptone Pictures, Faith + Sports Network, The Disability Channel, ESTV, MTR7 Soccer Legends
and features an array of "feel good programs" today's viewers are seeking. In my 40 years in the entertainment, film, and music industry, it's rare to see an alliance come together as we're seeing with Your Home TV.
Your Home TV offers FREE streaming for families on a variety of topics and interests. Equally important, Your Home TV offers creators and producers a place to showcase their content affordably and to reach a large and growing global audience. “We are truly a turnkey streaming gateway for creatives. We host and distribute content, provide access
to studios, connect them with videography and editing resources, and provide marketing assistance. We allow our channel partners to thrive, and we provide them with a worldwide stage,” Stockell said.
Your Home TV has quickly amassed over 1,000 programs and episodes since 2022, and has logged 100 million views across all shows. The platform allows creators to tell their stories, retain ownership of their work, and collect 100% of their sponsor revenue. According to Stockell, there are currently 56 channel partnerships providing content in 20 genres.
By Gretchen Philyaw, Business Reporter
“As we conclude another successful year of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the largest in-water boat show in the world, we extend our gratitude to our exhibitors, sponsors, visitors, elected officials, and the Fort Lauderdale community for making this year’s event an extraordinary success.
This year’s show celebrated growth across every sector, showcasing an impressive range of vessels, cutting-edge marine technology, and premium lifestyle experiences. Across seven locations, visitors enjoyed five days of innovation, education, and entertainment that highlighted why Fort Lauderdale remains the Yachting Capital of the World.
We also thank our partners and the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, the show’s owners, for their continued support and collaboration in producing this world-class event. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year, October 28 to November 1, 2026, for another unforgettable experience on the water.”
Executive Producer & Host Gretchen Philyaw
Gretchen Philyaw is the host of Fabric of America. Gretchen is a CEO, a founder and writer. She's a proponent of American industry, a skilled hand and entrepreneur and now, Gretchen is about to show the world the excitement of making it in the USA. Please join Gretchen on the ultimate road trip for America where she will travel the USA to celebrate the people, places and experiences that show the American Dream is alive and well.
MSCH powers a diverse portfolio of consumer and service brands designed to strengthen communities and empower entrepreneurs. From home services and sustainable living to retail and lifestyle, MSCH provides the infrastructure, licensing, and strategic vision that help small business owners succeed on a national scale. Every MSCH brand shares one mission — to build opportunities, create value, and make a positive impact across Main Streets everywhere.
MSCH licensing arm, Advanced Licensing, helps entrepreneurs turn great ideas into thriving businesses. Specializing in brand development, territory licensing, and growth strategy, the company bridges the gap between innovation and expansion. From concept creation to national rollout, Advanced Licensing provides the tools, contracts, and expertise that help brands scale — all while supporting licensees with proven systems for long-term success.
Some of the business lines offered through MSCH include: DiamondBrokerUSA, Perfect 10 Sleep, Green Bin® kathy ireland®, kathy ireland® Laundry, Furniture and Home Services, DUCTS Air Duct Cleaning, Aloha Mini Glow Golf, Computer Repair & Virus Removal, ReadyLockers®, eBikes, and TerraLux Homes.
MSCH Mission: Nurturing local business relationships. We celebrate the inherent value of business relationships and the power to synergize community efforts. Our mission transcends traditional models, fostering a community where entrepreneurs and local companies can develop and thrive on a national scale.
Join the MSCH business network today. Connect with us at 877-594-7277 or info@MSCH.com.
Afew years ago, I found myself driving into Hollywood Hills, where actor, artist, and storyteller Billy Zane had transformed a sprawling private mansion located just across from Denzel Washington’s home—into something wholly unexpected. Paintings leaned against chairs, canvases clustered near the fireplace, and rolls of artwork streamed across polished floors. What was meant to be an exhibition became an unfolding world where art and life blurred, curated and presented as a private event, it was the world Billy himself embodied. Even then, I sensed Billy was living inside the same artistic paradox that would later unite him with Marlon Brando. Brando once said, “To grasp the full significance of life is the actor’s duty.” In that hillside house, I felt Billy already living that duty.
During that week of the Frieze Art Fair, we walked together through the Paramount Pictures backlot where it was located that year and while the fair pulsed with the energy of fashion and art international scene, what I noticed struck Billy the most was not just the art, but the architecture of fiction on the Hollywood set. On the faux New York street sets—where grit, history, and imagination collided—Billy fell silent as we walked along the lot. He gazed at the façades with reverence before speaking of the city’s contradictions: its beauty, its decay, its power to shape visionaries. These streets were not scenery but memory—layers of cinema and reality blurred into one.
It is almost certain with precisely that same tension that Billy Zane stepped into the role of Marlon Brando in Waltzing with Brando a few years later. The movie written and directed by Bill Fishman and first released in 2024 onto the international film festival circuit, the movie is based on architect Bernard Judge’s memoir Waltzing with Brando: Planning a Paradise in Tahiti, the film captures Brando at a crossroads—torn between his luminous career and his radical vision of creating an ecological sanctuary in Tahiti.
By Rachel D. Vancelette
Zane’s Brando is not mimicry but inhabitation. He reveals a man of contradictions: mercurial and tender, visionary and stubborn, playful yet burdened. Around him, the other actors bring dimension: Jon Heder as Bernard Judge, the idealistic architect; Richard Dreyfuss anchoring the story as Seymour Kraft; Tia Carrere with force and elegance as Madame Leroy; and Camille Razat, Alaina Huffman, James Jagger, and Rob Corddry adding vital threads to Brando’s orbit and pivotal story. At the heart of the film lies Brando’s radical ecological vision. In the late 1960s, he purchased Tetiaroa, once a royal Tahitian atoll. Where most saw paradise, Brando saw a laboratory to reimagine how humanity could live. He experimented with seawater air-conditioning, solar and wind energy, composting, and organic farming—years ahead of the sustainability movement.
One evening, after arriving on Tetiaroa, he lay on the sand, coconut pillow beneath his head, and reflected:
“The first night after I’d bought it, I put my head on a coconut I’d worked into the sand … I very quickly realized that I didn’t own that island; the island owned me. … Nothing that I thought or felt or hoped for or experienced or knew would have any more significance than the grains of sand that I was lying on, and it gave me deep comfort.”
He also mused: “Tetiaroa is beautiful beyond my capacity to describe... One could say that Tetiaroa is the tincture of the South Seas.” And in speaking of his vision for the land, he said:
“It is my hope that the island will serve as an ecological model… Not only a tourist preserve, but a marine preserve as well as a place for all manner of scientific research and investigation.”
Ever prescient, Brando acknowledged deeply how small we are in the sweep of time:
“We are the ghosts of the future.”
My own adventures with Billy mirrored these layers of art and life. In France, we shared long meals that stretched into deep conversation about art, cinema, painting, writing and more recalling the spirits of Elizabeth Taylor, Charlie Chaplin, and Henri Matisse— many artists before us of a different era who shaped the Riviera. Days melted into afternoons at La Paloma beach, evenings at the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where cinema seemed to shimmer and if only the walls could speak to us about all who had passed through before us. Zane moves between these worlds—intimate and grand, historical and present—I saw him living out Brando’s creed: “To grasp the full significance of life is the actor’s duty.”
That poetic spirit crystallized in Odyssee, a two-person exhibition with French artist Diane Detalle at Neptune Gallery in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. I first introduced Billy and Diane at Art Basel Miami a year prior, recognizing their shared love for the region and their devotion to a deeply physical creative process—painting canvases on the floor. That led to a live, performative expression outside a gallery—an emblem of creation as ritual. The exhibition for the city’s 120th anniversary, coinciding with Cannes Film Festival week, presented Billy’s cinematic layering and Diane’s lyrical abstraction met in the Mediterranean light. The resulting book—Odyssee | Saint-Jean-CapFerrat: A Curator’s Sketchbook, published by Snap Collective—became more than documentation for me as a curator and writer, it captured the collective memory of that week—where art, cinema, and history fused in one shared cultural moment- to be a future memory in a bottle (or book!)
Looking back, the threads are unmistakable: art as something alive, memory as something shared, vision as something enduring. And now those threads extend to audiences everywhere for Waltzing with Brando. It is a reminder that legacy is not measured in fame but in what we leave behind. Waltzing with Brando is a story of art, ecology, and human contradiction—told through the lens of Billy Zane’s haunting performance.
This September, as the film comes to theaters nationwide, it offers more than cinema. It is an invitation—to step into Brando’s vision, to witness Zane’s embodiment of it, and to reflect on the timeless power of imagination to challenge, to connect, and to endure.
Follow Rachel D. Vancelette IG: @rvancelette
Waltzing with Brando: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Waltzing_with_Brando
By Sarah Vie
t the beautifully liberating age of 62, I stand in the truth that the secret to abundant living has never been “out there”—it’s always been within me. This realization inspired me to create my nationally syndicated talk show, Living Abundantly with Sarah Vie, a space born of my desire to share the lessons life has taught me and to encourage others to see their own potential for joy, purpose, and fulfillment. Over time, I’ve discovered just how powerful our mindset and perspective are in shaping a truly abundant life.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that abundance isn’t measured by material wealth or external success—it’s a state of being. If we feel abundant, we will attract what we desire. It’s about cultivating gratitude, nurturing growth, and finding possibility in every experience. When I began to shift my perspective, I noticed the richness of life that had always surrounded me. Even challenges became opportunities to expand, realign, and reconnect with my ultimate purpose.
This awakening inspired my book, The Sacred Plate: Recipes for Abundant Living. What began as a soulful book of healthy recipes grew into a journey of understanding how proper nourishment comes not only from food, but from the way we care for and connect with all areas of our lives. Through its pages, I explored the philosophies and practices that helped me create abundance from the inside out. Writing the book was profoundly healing— it reaffirmed that our inner world shapes every part of our outer experience. Sharing my own transformation reminded me how powerful it is to help others see that same potential within themselves.
The idea for a talk show naturally grew from that desire to connect more deeply with a larger group of viewers. I envisioned a space where authentic conversations could uplift, empower, and remind people that abundance is available to all of us. Living Abundantly with Sarah Vie became that platform—a gathering of hearts and minds exploring what it means to live fully, purposefully, and joyfully. Each episode explores themes such as mindset, resilience, creativity, and the courage to reinvent ourselves at any age. My goal was to shine a light on people who embody this truth— those who have turned adversity into strength, and discovered
that abundance is not a destination but a daily choice. By sharing their stories, I hope viewers see that their own transformation is possible for them too.
Stepping into the world of broadcasting has been both thrilling and humbling. Who would have thought I would be behind the lights in New York City? There are moments of uncertainty, yes— but I’ve learned to see each challenge as part of the abundant life I’m choosing to live. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort; it occurs in discomfort, in motion, in faith, and in community.
Ultimately, my vision is simple yet powerful: to create a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment. When we each tap into our inner abundance, we naturally uplift those around us. Through shared stories and heartfelt conversations, I aim to inspire others to live with joy, authenticity, and purpose. Because abundance isn’t something we find—it’s something we remember, nurture, and become.
Living Abundantly with Sarah Vie. www.livingabundantlywithsarahvie.com/
Whether it is a magazine cover, a charitable cause, or a special occasion, the photographers with Annie Watt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associate photographers embody the essence of professionalism, seamlessly moving through any assignment with finesse and an innate ability to capture the moment at its heart. To book a photographer, contact annie@anniewatt.com
Whether it is a magazine cover, a charitable cause, or a special occasion, the photographers with Annie Watt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associate photographers embody the essence of professionalism, seamlessly moving through any assignment with finesse and an innate ability to capture the moment at its heart. To book a photographer, contact annie@anniewatt.com
ANNIE WATT
anniewatt.com
anniewatt.com
JUDGE HATCHETT CHAMPIONS FASHION AND PHILANTHROPY AT NEW YORK FASHION WEEK
Shani Grosz Brings Timeless Fashion to Macy’s
By Adam Kluger
Shani Grosz knows a thing or two about great dress design. For over 20 years she’s been offering women what they really want: dresses that allow women to feel as fabulous as they look. The Shani collection is synonymous with flattering, flirty, feminine looks that do the heavy lifting through use of color blocking and tailoring tricks. These result in the perfect silhouette and shape, which is exactly what the multifaceted modern woman needs to take on the world. If confidence was a dress, it would no doubt be designed by Shani.
Shani’s message is clear: See the dress but FOCUS on the woman.
Born and raised in New York to South American parents, Shani’s destiny as a
designer was apparent early on. As a little girl, she’d take brand new dresses, so new they still had the hang tags on, and rework them with nothing more than a vision and a pair of kitchen scissors. Inevitably this led Shani, a budding fashion designer on a razor straight path to Parson’s School of Design where she established herself as an important and internationally recognized designer.
With over 2 decades as the President and Designer of SHANI Collection, she has won many prestigious awards for her well executed vision of “wearable art.”
Her Nue by Shani label which pioneered the concept of hidden shapewear built into dresses and finally offered busy women what
they’d been missing—magical, transformative dresses that did all of the heavy lifting, allowing them to confidently get on with their careers. News anchors, Broadway stars, television personalities and many more in the entertainment industry flocked to Shani, the woman who was known for offering “Botox for the body”. The professional masses were hooked on a brand whose message was clear: “We shape the women who shape your life”.
To know Shani is to know that she is a girl’s girl, so it’s only logical that her designs are about feeling free, and comfortable in your skin. Shani designs are like the perfect little black dress –something every woman needs in her wardrobe that she can always count on to let her look her best.
Womenswear and Menswear SS2026 Collections in New York City During NYFW
By Norah Lawlor
Photo credits: Shutterstock / Mark Sagliocco
A runway presentation by Diana Mahrach Couture, showcased the latest in haute couture craftsmanship as she debuted her SS2026 Womenswear and Menswear collections in New York City during New York Fashion Week. The event also benefitted The Centre for Family Services Palm Beach County (CFS), known for their signature annual fundraiser, The Old Bags Luncheon.
This event underscored the synergy between fashion and art, illustrating how each element enriches the others. Diana Mahrach Couture seeks to elevate the conversation around couture by infusing classic techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
Before the fashion runway show Attendees enjoyed cocktails from BIATCH® Tequila. In addition, the recently released fragrance by Diana Mahrach was available at the show.
Notable attendees included: Diana Mahrach, Prince Mario Max, Charlii Sebunya, Luisa Diaz, Jean Shafiroff, and Leesa Rowland.
Show Production @fashionforallnyc By Diana Mahrach, Hair styling and make-up led by Marco Marrangello, Make-up by Vincenza Carovillano, Team backstage “house of annex “, Cookies supplied by “lala Bonbon “ Rula Lutfi, Music Director Chris Avery Bennet, Skin care by klara beauty, Musical performance by N’Kenge
About Diana Mahrach Couture:
For more than a decade, Diana Mahrach has designed luxurious garments defined by meticulous detailing and timeless sophistication. Each piece reflects her dedication to artistry, combining sumptuous fabrics with innovative silhouettes that flatter and inspire. Through Diana Mahrach Couture, she continues to redefine elegance for her discerning clientele. Diana Mahrach has a showroom located at 263 West 38th Street in New York City which both showcases her designs as well as the fabrics.
For more information, please visit: www.dianamahrachcouture.com
IG: @dianamahrachcouture | F: dianamahrachcouture
By Adam Kluger & Gia Carillo
Tell us about this year’s San Diego Spirits Festival…what goes on at the festival and who is participating?
This year marks our 16th anniversary, and we’re pulling out all the stops! Over two days, guests can sample premium spirits— from tequila and whiskey to rum, gin, and beyond—paired with bites from some of San Diego’s hottest restaurants. Add in live music featuring George Pajon Jr. of the Black-Eyed Peas, singer-songwriter Andrew Cole, original flamenco guitarist Jason Jenkins, plus samba and belly dance performances, all set against sweeping ocean views at the Museum of Contemporary Art La Jolla, and you’ve got a true celebration of flavor and culture. Participating brands range from household names to boutique craft distillers, so there’s something for everyone.
Any new liquor brands you are excited about or trends you are noticing?
Absolutely! We’re seeing a huge rise in premium tequilas, & mezcals, and low-ABV ready-to-drink cocktails. It’s exciting to showcase innovative brands alongside timeless classics—there’s always something new to taste! I love that we get to showcase the newest players in the market right alongside the iconic brands people already love.
What inspired you to start the festival and what are some of your favorite memories over the past 16 years?
I wanted to create a destination event that celebrated spirits in a fun, approachable way, and San Diego felt like the perfect stage. Some of my favorite memories are the incredible connections made between brands and guests, and of course watching people discover a new favorite spirit for the very first time.
How do you compare your festival with the legendary Catalina Wine Mixer of Step Brothers fame? Do people ever get the two events mixed up?
The Catalina Wine Mixer may be on a scenic island, but getting there is a bit of a production. The San Diego Spirits Festival, on the other hand, is right on the coast and super easy to access— no ferry required! Plus, we offer world-class spirits, award-winning brands, and plenty of tequila.
Aside from the incredible weather, why is San Diego the perfect location for your festival and what are your future plans?
San Diego has it all—sunshine, ocean views, a vibrant culinary scene, and a community that loves to celebrate. It’s the perfect backdrop for spirits and fun. As for the future, we’ll keep raising the bar with new brands, bigger experiences, and even more reasons to come back year after year.
The New York City Documentary Premiere of Catwalk Furbaby 2 Highlighted Designers, Models, Rescue Animals & Charities in Action
By Norah Lawlor
What began as a groundbreaking runway concept during New York Fashion Week has stepped into the spotlight on film.
ELYSIAN Impact hosted the New York premiere of Catwalk Furbaby 2, a documentary that captures the glamour, grit, and generosity behind its acclaimed fashion-meets-philanthropy showcase at the beginning of New York Fashion Week at Sony Hall.
Conceived by ELYSIAN Founder Karen Floyd, Catwalk Furbaby has quickly grown into one of Fashion Week’s most innovative events, pairing couture and creativity with a mission to support animal welfare and a broad spectrum of charitable causes. The evening began with a red carpet at Sony Hall in the heart of Times Square at 7:30 PM where guests gathered to experience the first public screening of Catwalk Furbaby 2. The
documentary chronicles the designers, models, rescue animals, and charitable partners who came together to redefine what it means to use fashion as a force for good.
The documentary profiled charities and their invaluable work as a force for good including NYC Second Chance Rescue, New York Women’s Foundation, Animal Ashram, Center for Family Services Palm Beach County (Old Bags Luncheon), Silverstein Dream Foundation, Rescue Dogs Rock NYC, Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation, the ROOT Brands.
Notable Attendees included: Karen Floyd, Dr. Christina Rahm, Thomas Canestraro, Michele Ashkin, Lisa Blanco, Roberta Ashkin, Alexander Montesantos, Rachel Donohue, Maribel Lieberman and Chrissy Joi.
THE 3RD ANNUAL
By Norah Lawlor
he New York City International Fashion Film Festival (NYCIFFF) concluded its 3rd annual edition on September 17, 2025, with a dynamic showcase of international fashion films and a packed house at Soho House New York in the Meatpacking District.
This year’s festival brought together filmmakers, designers, models, and storytellers from around the globe, presenting 40 official selections with international participation from 14 countries.
The evening culminated with the exclusive screening of the fashion documentary A Man With Sole – The Impact of Kenneth
Cole, followed by a live Q&A with designer and activist Kenneth Cole, award-winning director Dori Berinstein, and festival director Pedro Oberto inspiring emerging filmmakers and designers to push creative boundaries.
The night closed with a cocktail reception, red-carpet step-and-repeat, and the highly anticipated NYCIFFF Awards Ceremony hosted by fashion designer Marc Bouwer, honoring the best in fashion film across multiple categories.
Fashion Documentary: A Man With Sole –The Impact of Kenneth Cole – directed by Dori
Berinstein Fashion Film: Self-Mimetic – directed by Christophe Chudy, France
Micro Fashion Film: Narente + Ivan Delogu Senes – directed by Franco Erre & Lucio Aru, Italy
Model Performance: Candice Swanepoel – Where Time Stands Still by JP Micallef, French Polynesia
LGBTQ+ Representation: Clash of the Prints –directed by Jimi Urquiaga, United States
Music Video: Intruso – directed by Eugenio Recuenco, Spain
Fashion Editorial Film: Florescence for Shon – directed by Alice Gatti & Diego Indraccolo, United Kingdom
Best Emerging Talent: Edo Odion – directed by Samuel Chukwuebuke Iwor, Nigeria
Best Student Fashion Film: Pure Negation – directed by June Seo, Parsons School of Design, The New School
Fashion with a Purpose: Catwalk Furbaby 2 – directed by Karen Floyd, ELYSIAN Impact, United States
“This year’s edition received more than 800 submissions from around the world — our biggest season yet,” said Pedro Oberto, Festival Director. “The 40 selected films represent the diversity in fashion and storytelling that the world needs today. Every filmmaker should be proud of their achievement.”
“Standing up for a cause, and standing out, will always get you noticed in fashion,” said Kenneth Cole.
The NYCIFFF celebrates its winners and participants while continuing to champion innovative storytellers.
With global participation, high-profile speakers, and strong media reach, the festival remains a leading platform for fashion film, inspiring creativity, shaping new talent, and pushing the boundaries of the industry.
Official Sponsors: NYC Visuals, Marc Bouwer, Lawlor Media Group, ELYSIAN Impact.
For more information, please visit www.nycifff.com.
