Change The Reel podcast

In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

1
Finding Your Authentic Voice - A Conversation with Chef Queen Precious-Jewel 47:43

منذ 13 يومًا47:43

47:43

1 5 Finding Your Authentic Voice - A Conversation with Chef Queen Precious-Jewel From the Bronx kitchen where she first learned to cook, to appearing on Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars and building a thriving personal chef business, Chef Queen Precious-Jewel's journey embodies what it means to change the narrative through authentic representation. In this powerful episode, we explore how staying true to yourself can transform not just your own story, but create space for others to do the same. Why This Story Matters Now In a culinary world often defined by traditional credentials and mainstream representation, Queen's story challenges us to rethink what makes a "real" chef. Her journey from self-taught cook to successful business owner shows how embracing your authentic voice - complete with its unique accents, experiences, and perspectives - can become your greatest strength. The Journey to Finding Her Voice Building from the Ground Up Growing up in a Bronx family of six siblings, QueenPrecious-Jewel's culinary education began in her mother Beverly's kitchen, where vegetarian cooking and cultural fusion were daily lessons. Rather than pursuing formal culinary training, she chose to honor her roots and develop her own style - a decision that would later become one of her greatest assets. As she puts it, "I didn't want to be tainted... if you're authentically saying I am cooking the way my ancestors cooked, then learn those influences." Creating Impact Through Visibility Initially hiding her identity as a Black, Muslim, LGBTQ+ chef when starting her catering business, Queen Precious-Jewel discovered that showing her true self actually helped the business grow. When she finally put her face to the brand, clients responded to the authenticity she brought to every dish and interaction. This visibility extended beyond business success - it created representation for others who didn't see themselves in the culinary world. Building Community Through Food One of Queen Precious-Jewel's proudest achievements has been creating spaces where authentic stories can flourish through food. After pivoting from large-scale catering to intimate 15-person dining experiences, she found her true passion: creating personalized culinary experiences that honor both tradition and innovation. Her work with aspiring chefs, particularly through programs like Job Corps, shows how representation can inspire the next generation to pursue their dreams. Key Insights for Business Owners Authentic Leadership The story behind the brand matters as much as the product itself. Queen Precious-Jewel's experience demonstrates how being visible and vulnerable in your business can create deeper connections with clients and open unexpected opportunities. From Say Yes to the Dress to Gordon Ramsay's show, doors opened because she was willing to be authentically herself. Building Sustainable Success Creating standard operating procedures and learning to delegate were crucial steps in Queen Precious-Jewel's business evolution. Her partnership with wife Jay showed how important it is to have support systems and clear processes, especially when pursuing new opportunities requires stepping away from day-to-day operations. Looking Forward Change the Reel isn't just about sharing success stories - it's about changing the narrative of what success looks like. Through Queen Precious-Jewel's journey from home cook to celebrated chef, we see how embracing your authentic voice can create ripples of change throughout an industry. Each plate she serves becomes an opportunity to honor tradition while creating space for new stories to emerge. Stories and Examples Featured: Throughout this episode, Queen Precious-Jewel shares personal stories about her family's influence on her cooking, her experience with Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars, her appearance on Say Yes to the Dress, and her journey to founding Elevated Palate Personal Chef Services. Each example illustrates how staying true to yourself can lead to unexpected opportunities and meaningful impact. Connect with Chef Queen Precious-Jewel through Elevated Palate Personal Chef Services for intimate dining experiences that blend tradition, creativity and authentic storytelling. #RepresentationMatters #LGBTQOwned #BlackChefsOfInstagram #PersonalChef #ChefLife #WomenInCulinary Elevated Palate by Chef Queen Precious-Jewel - Stat up to date with Chef Queen Precious Jewel Change the Reel website CHANGE THE REEL with Piper and Monique LinkedIn : Apple Podcast : Spotify Youtube Executive Producers: Monique Velasquez and Piper Kessler Producer: Arielle Morten Director/Editor: Simon Beery Copyright 2025 Monique & Piper…

1
Let’s Talk Nonprofit Video: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck 24:56

منذ 27 يومًا24:56

24:56

1 4 Let’s Talk Nonprofit Video: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck We know nonprofits work with precious dollars, and every investment needs to count. In this episode, we're breaking down five practical ways to make your video content work harder for your mission. No fancy jargon, just real strategies that get results. Real Talk: Why Video Matters Right Now Let's be honest - most marketers find video intimidating. In fact, 64% say it's their toughest content to create. But here's the thing: with over 500 million hours of video watched daily on YouTube alone, you can't afford to sit this one out. Plus, 82% of folks actually prefer live video from nonprofits. Five Game-Changing Strategies 1. Make It Personal Forget generic content. We've seen amazing results when nonprofits get personal with their video outreach. Here's what worked for us: adding personalized video messages to email campaigns. It's like having a one-on-one conversation with each donor or volunteer, just scaled up. 2. Don't Fear Long-Form Remember when everyone said "keep it under two minutes"? Well, we're here to fight that notion. Our experience shows that when people care about your mission, they'll gladly watch longer content. It's not about length - it's about telling your story right. 3. Know Your Platforms Each social platform has its own personality, and your content needs to match. YouTube loves landscape, TikTok wants vertical, and yes, it hurts our professional souls sometimes to turn that camera sideways - but it works! Think about where your audience hangs out and meet them there. 4. Plan It Out Listen, we get it - sometimes you need something quick. But the magic happens when you tie your videos into your bigger picture. Whether it's a giving campaign or volunteer drive, having a strategy makes every video work harder for you. 5. Go Live This is where it gets exciting - 82% of viewers prefer live video. Why? Because it's real, it's authentic, and it lets people connect with your mission in real-time. From fundraising events to behind-the-scenes moments, live video creates instant connections. Numbers You Should Know We're not big on overwhelming you with stats, but these are worth noting: 85% of Facebook videos play silent (yep, captions matter!) Almost half of folks watch an hour+ of video weekly 69% would rather watch than read about your work 88% of organizations are happy with their video ROI Making It Real The best part? You don't need Hollywood production values. Whether you're planning your annual gala or launching a giving campaign, video can amplify your impact without breaking the bank. Consider hybrid events that combine in-person and virtual elements - we've seen this work wonders for expanding reach while keeping that personal touch. Let's Get Started Video doesn't have to be complicated or expensive - it just needs to be strategic. Focus on these five areas, and you'll create the kind of connections that drive real results for your mission. Got questions about making video work for your nonprofit? Let's chat! Book a quick 15-minute strategy session with us - we'd love to help you explore the possibilities. Hashtags: #NonprofitMarketing #VideoStrategy #NonprofitVideo #NonprofitCommunications Book a Strategy Session with Velasquez Media - Link to book a 15 minute call to review your video strategy and plans. 5 tips for nonprofits - This is where you will find the handout from this episode. Change the Reel website CHANGE THE REEL with Piper and Monique LinkedIn : Apple Podcast : Spotify Youtube Executive Producers: Monique Velasquez and Piper Kessler Producer: Arielle Morten Director/Editor: Simon Beery Copyright 2025 Monique & Piper…

1
What it Means to "Change the Reel" - The Story Behind the Podcast 33:56

منذ 6 weeks33:56

33:56

Ep. 1: What it Means to "Change the Reel" - The Story Behind the Podcast Ever wonder why authentic representation in media matters? In this special episode, Monique and Piper share the story behind "Change the Reel" and their 20+ year journey building a video production company that's achieved what only 3% of women-owned businesses have done. Why This Matters Now In a world where media shapes our understanding of reality, who tells the story matters as much as the story itself. When we change who controls the narrative, we change the story itself. This episode dives into how changing the "reel" - both literally and metaphorically - can transform narratives and create space for authentic voices in media. The Journey to Changing the Reel Finding Our Voice Personal experiences have profoundly shaped our approach to media production. As an out LGBTQ+ couple in business, we've seen firsthand how representation - or the lack thereof - impacts communities. This understanding led us to build a company that prioritizes authentic storytelling and representation, creating spaces where people can truly be themselves both in front of and behind the camera. Creating Impact Through Media Our work goes beyond simple video production. We've partnered with organizations to reach diverse communities effectively, bringing cultural understanding to Spanish-language content and ensuring that representation behind the camera influences what appears on screen. Through projects like Science House outreach and public health initiatives, we've seen how authentic storytelling can bridge gaps and create meaningful connections. Building Safe Spaces One of our proudest achievements has been creating environments where authentic storytelling can flourish. Our all-women production crews often surprise clients and talent alike, but the impact is undeniable. When people walk onto our sets, they frequently comment on the different energy and comfort level they experience. We understand the importance of removing barriers for diverse voices because we've experienced those barriers ourselves. Key Insights for Business Owners Authentic Representation The storyteller matters as much as the story itself. Our personal experiences as women, as members of the LGBTQ+ community, and as minority business owners inform every project we take on. This perspective allows us to create content that truly reflects real communities because we understand the importance of authentic representation at every level. Building Meaningful Partnerships We've learned to be intentional about choosing projects that align with our values. From working with Full Frame Documentary Film Festival to helping towns document their first public art initiatives, we've seen how serving your community authentically creates lasting impact. Each project becomes more than just a job - it's an opportunity to change narratives and create meaningful change. Looking Forward Change the Reel isn't just a podcast name - it's our mission. By featuring business owners who look like us and sharing how they use media to drive diverse perspectives, we're helping change the narrative one story at a time. Each episode will bring you conversations with women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ business owners who are making a difference in their communities through media. Bottom Line True representation isn't just about who appears on screen - it's about who's behind the camera, who's making decisions, and who's telling the stories. When we change who controls the narrative, we change reality itself. Stories and Examples Featured: Throughout this episode, we share personal stories and professional experiences, including our work with Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, our perspective on the Two Towns of Jasper Documentary, and our involvement with Science House's outreach program. Each example illustrates how changing who tells the story changes the story itself. Want to dive deeper into authentic storytelling and representation in media? Connect with us at Hello@velasquezmedia.com . #WomenInFilm #LGBTQOwned #WomenOwnedBusiness #MinorityOwned #DiversityInMedia…

1
Building Content That Connects: A Conversation with Fran Wescott 55:31

منذ 6 weeks55:31

55:31

Ep. 2: Building Content That Connects: A Conversation with Fran Wescott Want to create content that genuinely resonates with your audience? In this episode, content strategist Fran Wescott breaks down how to build authentic connections through strategic storytelling. Why This Matters Now In today's digital landscape, content creation goes far beyond just reaching new markets. It's about building lasting relationships that can weather any storm. Even if your client roster is full, strategic content helps create resilience in your business relationships and provides a foundation for navigating challenges together. Key Takeaways The Real Purpose of Content Content isn't just another marketing tool – it's your relationship builder. When done right, it helps you expand your reach while deepening existing relationships. Think of it as your business insurance policy: when external challenges like economic shifts or internal issues arise, strong content keeps your relationships solid. Your content should work as hard as you do, creating connections that last even when you're not in the room. Authenticity as Your Edge In a world where everyone's fighting for attention, authenticity is your secret weapon. Today's audiences can spot manufactured content from miles away. Social media has leveled the playing field, allowing diverse voices to reach their communities in genuine ways. This shift means cookie-cutter content stands out – and not in a good way. Your unique voice isn't just welcome; it's essential. Building Strong Client Partnerships Success isn't just about how many clients you have – it's about how deep those relationships go. The key is finding clients who truly align with your values, beyond just their budget. Being transparent about what you know (and don't know) creates trust and opens doors for mutual growth. Think of it as building a community rather than just a client list. Action Steps for Better Content When Working with Professionals True content magic happens when you start with deep listening. Understanding what's not being said is often more important than what is. This means setting clear expectations from the start and defining what success looks like for everyone involved. Cultural considerations, like having Spanish-speaking staff for Spanish language content, aren't just nice-to-haves – they're essential for authentic communication. Moving Beyond DIY There comes a time when DIY content creation starts holding you back instead of moving you forward. Recognizing this moment is crucial. When you're ready to transition to professional help, focus on your core message and let experts handle the technical details. This isn't about giving up control; it's about amplifying your impact. What's Next Get ready for Fran's upcoming podcast "Fran's Table," where business insights meet the warmth of sharing food and culture. It's a fresh take on business conversations, coming soon to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Want to dive deeper? Connect with Fran on LinkedIn or visit FranWescott.com to continue the conversation. #AuthenticContent #BrandStorytelling #AuthenticContent #MarketingTips…

1
The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Video Crew (Without Getting Overwhelmed) 52:02

منذ 6 weeks52:02

52:02

Ep. 3: The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Video Crew (Without Getting Overwhelmed) Been tasked with creating a video project and feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. In this episode, Monique and Piper share their insider knowledge on working with video production teams, drawing from years of experience helping first-time producers create successful projects. Why This Matters Now The demand for video content is everywhere – from marketing campaigns to internal communications. But here's the thing: you don't need to be a video expert to get great results. What you do need is the right approach to working with video professionals, whether you're planning months ahead or need something turned around quickly. Key Insights The Magic Triangle: Time, Control, and Cost Every successful video project balances three essential elements: time, control, and cost. These aren't just abstract concepts – they're your practical tools for success. Time isn't just about deadlines; it's about understanding the real hours needed for quality work. Control involves knowing who makes which decisions and when. And cost? It's not just about the bottom line – it's about making smart investments in the right areas of your project. Smart Questions for Smarter Hiring Finding the right video team starts with asking the right questions. But here's what many first-time producers don't realize: it's not just about their portfolio or price tag. You need to understand their experience with projects like yours, their approach to timelines, and most importantly, how they handle communication. The best video teams aren't just technically skilled – they're excellent communicators who can guide you through the process. The Production Process Demystified Pre-production isn't just planning – it's where your video's success is determined. This means getting clear on everything from script development to location scouting. We break down real-world considerations like shooting ratios (spoiler: you'll need more footage than you think) and why that perfect take might require more time than expected. Understanding these elements helps you plan better and avoid costly surprises. Building Professional Relationships The secret to great video production isn't just about finding talented professionals – it's about finding the right fit for your project. This means considering factors like: Cultural alignment with your organization Communication styles that match your needs Understanding of your industry and audience Ability to work within your approval processes Technical capabilities that match your requirements Special Considerations Language and diversity aren't just boxes to check – they're crucial elements that can make or break your project. Having Spanish-language capabilities isn't just about translation; it's about cultural understanding and authentic communication. Similarly, having diverse production teams brings different perspectives that can enhance your final product. Making It Work Planning makes perfect, but flexibility keeps projects moving. Whether you're working with a six-month timeline or a three-day turnaround, success comes from: Clear communication channels Well-defined approval processes Understanding of technical requirements Realistic budget allocation Strategic decision-making Ready to take the next step in your video production journey? Connect with us at hello@velasquezmedia.com – we'd love to hear about your project and share more insights. #VideoProduction #CorporateVideo #ContentCreation #MediaProduction #FilmCrew…

1
Change the Reel Trailer 1:10

منذ 6 weeks1:10

1:10

“Change the Reel: A podcast presented by Monique Velasquez and Piper Kessler. For over 20 years we’ve run a video production business that has achieved what ONLY 3% of women entrepreneurs have done - exceed $250K in revenue. We want to see business owners that look like us succeed. That’s why we’ve started this podcast. 🎧 Look for “Change the Reel” to drop twice a month 🗓️ We’ll release two types of episodes: One is with Piper and I kicking it - and talking about using video in business and the second , is us having conversations with business owners that are using media to specifically talk to , About , and adding a diverse perspective in the world. 👍🏽 We can’t wait to share ideas on how to CHANGE THE REEL in business and media. You can listen to “Change the Reel,” for free in any app that supports podcasts. You can also watch “Change the Reel,” on Youtube or our LinkedIn page. 👀 Look for “Change the Reel” podcast and remember Representation starts here.…

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

1
QUALIFIED: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work with Shari Dunn | 284 33:58

Change the Reel explicit

Change the Reel explicit

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

كل الحلقات

1
Finding Your Authentic Voice - A Conversation with Chef Queen Precious-Jewel 47:43

1
Let’s Talk Nonprofit Video: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck 24:56

1
What it Means to "Change the Reel" - The Story Behind the Podcast 33:56

1
Building Content That Connects: A Conversation with Fran Wescott 55:31

1
The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Video Crew (Without Getting Overwhelmed) 52:02

1
Change the Reel Trailer 1:10

مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

Change the Reel explicit

Change the Reel explicit

المدونة الصوتية تستحق الاستماع

مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!

دليل مرجعي سريع