Interview: Celebrity Chef Carla Hall Dishes On Quaker Partnership and New Max Series ‘Chasing Flavor’  

Carla Hall may not have won season five of Bravo’s Top Chef, but she’s been winning ever since. In fact, the effervescent Nashville native’s star has continued to rise. Her culinary talents have taken her to unimaginable heights. 

From sought-after caterer and restaurateur to author and network TV personality, Hall has been cooking up a variety of ways to whet the appetites of those who crave her delectable dishes, southern charm and on-screen charisma.

Now, she’s teaming up with Quaker to donate $250,000 to GenYouth, a nationally recognized youth health and wellness nonprofit, to help tackle food insecurity among children. She’s also working with the brand to bring an unparalleled culinary, sports, entertainment and philanthropic experience at Taste of the NFL, presented by Frito-Lay, Quaker, and the PepsiCo Foundation, which takes center stage during Super Bowl LVIII Weekend.  

In addition to manifesting a relationship with her dream brand, she’s also gearing up to take audiences on an entertaining and enlightening culinary journey with her new show, Chasing Flavor, which premieres today on Max.

I recently caught up with Carla to learn all about her partnership with Quaker, her favorite game day snack, who she’s rooting for in the Big Game, and more. 

Check out our Q&A below: 

BGG: Tell me about your partnership with Quaker. 

Carla Hall: Well, my Quaker partnership is two-fold. My friends know I was the unofficial Quaker Oats girl. I had Quaker on my vision board to work with them. So, it’s one of the organizations that I wanted to work with. I was already a founding board member since GenYouth’s inception. 

So, this campaign came out of that relationship because Quaker was going to give GenYouth $250,000 to further their work for childhood hunger and food insecurity. So, it’s like my worlds came together and it is so authentically me and who I am and the things that I’m already doing. So, I am here to basically use my platform to say the other things that Quaker is doing and that they are passionate about with GenYouth. So, everything’s coming together. 

BGG: Tell me about your upcoming participation with the Taste of the NFL.

CH: So, the Taste of the NFL has been going on for about 30 years. They’re working to make it special. They’re bringing in other chefs and local chefs, as well as Andrew Zimmern, Tim Love, Mark Bucher, Lasheeda Perry, and me. 

We are the chefs who work with GenYouth in addition to all these other chefs. It is a fun event. It’s like any other food taste event, but with a twist and giving back (proceeds will be donated to GenYouth). I’m excited to see some of the football players. I won’t know their names, but I’ll be standing alongside Eli Manning when I present this big check from Quaker to GenYouth. So, that’ll be fun. 

BGG: What dish will you be making at the Taste of the NFL?

CH: I am making a croquette dish made with Doritos, ham and cheese — so that’ll be super fun. Again, I’m just excited to taste and to meet the local chefs. I’m looking forward to tasting the culture of Nevada and how that food is indigenous and what that culture tastes like — especially on the heels of my new show Chasing Flavor. So, I’m excited to see how they’re going to express themselves.

BGG: Speaking of your upcoming show, Chasing Flavor, which premieres February 1 on Max, what was your inspiration behind it?

CH: So, I was talking to someone at a dinner party and told them that when I have car service and the driver is from another country, instead of asking, “how are you?” I ask, “what foods do you miss from home?” And I just watch their faces light up. 

The person who was at the dinner party told a friend of his who was the president of a production company. Then, I get a call saying, ‘Hey, I think that’s a show.’ It literally happened like that. It’s about celebrating our differences and honoring all the cultures who had a hand in a dish. And as a Black woman, I know a lot of our contributions have been lost and not told. 

BGG: What do you want viewers to take from “Chasing Flavor?”

CH: After watching the show, I want people to want the thing. I want them to want the ice cream, shrimp and grits, al pastor or chicken pot pie. I want them to want that thing because the cinematography is so great. But also, I want them to realize that they can’t separate the culture from the dish. You can’t say, ‘oh, I like Mexican food, but I don’t like Mexicans.’ It all comes together. You have to realize that food comes with culture and people. 

BGG: How did you come up with the locations that you wanted to visit?

CH: We started with the dish. We were looking for dishes that had a deep and varied story where we could sort of dig in and get into the juicy story — but we also shot it during the pandemic. So, we were limited in terms of where we went, especially abroad because of quarantine protocols. So, there were a lot of places that we couldn’t go. For instance, when we were talking about barbecue, we wanted to go to Korea, but we couldn’t go. 

BGG: What was your favorite place to visit for the show? 

CH: My favorite place? It’s hard. It’s between the fried chicken or the hot chicken journey. It started in Nashville, and it took me to Accra, Ghana. 

I also love the al pastor journey because I don’t really have a connection to al Pastor and tacos. I grew up in Tennessee! My tacos were hard coming from a box (laughing). And so, understanding that story and talking to people, I saw the effects — like the butterfly effect. It started out a tragedy, but what we wanted to show was that out of this tragedy, something beautiful came out of it.

BGG: Going back to the Big Game, what’s your favorite thing to make for the snack-centric event?

CH: So, I think you must have your dips and everything. Everybody has dips. You have your cold dips, and you have hot dips. And generally, these dips should be from pantry items. I am a big fan of hummus, but it doesn’t have to be chickpeas. I make hummus out of black-eyed peas. You can also make hummus out of black beans. So, you just choose a bean, throw in some roasted garlic, tahini and olive oil, and you have a beautiful dip. 

Also, you can do any kind of dip with sour cream and a soup packet and then throw in some vegetables. 

BGG: Is there any other dish that you enjoy making for the game?

CH: I would also do some kind of chili. So, the Quaker Playbook, has 32 recipes inspired by the NFL teams. I made the Quaker baked oatmeal and it’s almost like a cupcake, but you can have that as bread. You can also have it at a dessert station. You can add chocolate sauce or fruit sauce. 

BGG: I know your home team, the Tennessee Titans, aren’t in the Big Game, but who will you be rooting for next Sunday? 

CH: I’m always rooting for the team with the ball (laughing). I’ve watched more football since I’ve been married than I have in my entire life. I love the joy that happens around the game. I love the food that happens. I love the Taste of the NFL. I love all the things that happen around the game. I love it! 

What’s your favorite Big Game snack?

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Interview: HBO’s ‘Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project’ Filmmakers

Courtesy of Rada Studio/HBO

Nikki Giovanni is arguably one of the greatest poets to ever live. Now, her inspiring life story, prolific poems and literary gifts are being showcased in HBO’s new documentary, “Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project.” 

Produced and directed by Michèle Stephenson and Joe Brewster, the critically-acclaimed film takes viewers on an imaginative out-of-this-world journey that transcends space and time to uncover her enduring impact and undeniable influence on American culture. 

Peppered with captivating archival footage and creative visual treatments of her work, the 104-minute project is a poignant expression of love and reverence. What’s more, it highlights Giovanni’s dedication to justice, featuring poems from pivotal moments in history including the Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter movements.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the filmmakers to get their insights on their inspiration behind the movie, what they hope audiences take from the unique film, and more. 

Check out our enlightening Q&A: 

Brown Girl Gumbo: Tell me how this project came to be. Did the process always include a time travel aspect?  

Michèle Stephenson & Joe Brewster: After completing our 13-year-long observational film, “American Promise,” which centered on Black male achievement, we were searching for a new project. Our initial idea was to create a musical genre film, but we encountered difficulties in obtaining the necessary musical licensing commitments from artists. One morning, while listening to an NPR broadcast, we were struck by the musicality of Nikki’s poetry. We contacted her manager and received a response within a week – Nikki was interested in working with us.

BGG: Why was it important to tell Ms. Giovanni’s story in this way?

MS and JB: Initially, we chose not to prioritize continuity editing in our documentary because we wanted to explore our creativity as filmmakers. We believe that centering the film around a linear timeline would limit our possibilities, as our day-to-day lives are not lived in a linear fashion. For instance, when walking to the supermarket to buy soap, one may dream about soap they had in the past or consider how they’ll use soap in the future. Non-linear storytelling is not uncommon and allows us to tell the story with infinitely more creativity. 

BGG: Describe “Going to Mars” in a four words.

MS and JB: A Black love song.

BGG: What can viewers expect when they watch this film? 

MS and JB: When you watch this documentary film, be prepared to have your perspective challenged and to see the world from a different angle. Nikki Giovanni’s poetry is thought-provoking and urges us to question the status quo. Poetry has the power to make us reevaluate our choices and beliefs, and that’s precisely what Nikki Giovanni’s poetry accomplishes. Additionally, you should anticipate laughing, getting angry, and even shedding tears throughout this 104-minute journey.  Maybe they should expect to be unapologetically self-assured. 

BGG: Congratulations on winning the Grand Jury Prize for Best U.S. Documentary at Sundance and being on the Oscars shortlist. What is it like to be recognized in this way?  

MS and JB: We are proud to receive these honors and many more.  We acknowledge the support that we have received from our peers and fans.  However, we understand that the honors can be taken from us and that our affirmation must come from within. Unfortunately, internal affirmation doesn’t come with a plaque or trophy. Some of our greatest moments will come when we challenge orthodoxy and risk cancellation. I hope we are ready when the time comes. 

BGG: Why is it so important for you to tell the stories of people across the Black diaspora?

MS and JB: White supremacy has been able to thrive through the control and centering of information.  White supremacy devalues our history and our sense of self, as well as decreases our hopes and aspirations.  Counter-narratives or stories that reflect our achievements are key elements in elevating the hopes and dreams of future generations.  This is often difficult because we do not own the media outlets nor the power to authorize the placement of our stories on these media outlets.  But remember, it was the poets, the griots, and the preachers who traditionally delivered the messages of hope to our communities. 

Watch the trailer below: 

“Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project” debuts Monday, January 8 (9:00-10:42 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO and will be available to stream on Max.

What’s the first thing to come to mind when you think of Nikki Giovanni?

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Interview: PeachFuzz Laser Studio Owner Keisha Wagner-Gaymon Talks Entrepreneurship, Motherhood and More

They say necessity is the mother of invention. For Brooklyn resident Keisha Wagner-Gaymon, her need for hair removal services that catered to Black women sparked a business idea. The nurse practitioner with an entrepreneurial spirit and background in advertising and marketing, decided to utilize her expertise in these areas to open PeachFuzz Laser Studio, a laser hair removal service in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.

Wagner-Gaymon, who suffers from excessive hair growth, wanted women, specifically Black and other women of color, to have a place where they could go and have their specific hair removal issues and concerns addressed in a warm and welcoming environment. Additionally, thanks to her background in dermatology, gynecology and surgery — PeachFuzz Laser Studio clients also receive professional advice on the possible underlying causes of their hair and skin conditions.

Since opening her studio in 2020, Wagner-Gaymon has experienced tremendous success and has expanded her brand with FuzzClinic, a complementary skincare line — all during the Covid-19 pandemic.

I recently caught up with the mother of two to discuss her business, new skincare line and how she juggles it all while raising her young children.

Below, check out our Q&A.

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Crooks Lane Media

BGG: You’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart, what made you know for sure that you wanted to open a laser hair removal studio? 
Keisha Wagner-Gaymon: My husband will tell you I’ve come up with several ideas all over the place for the past 10 years. But every time I started something I would lose interest or get scared and talk myself out of it. But this particular time, right before the pandemic, I was really contemplating starting a business. I just didn’t know what I wanted to do. I focused and homed in on my interests and my background. I have a background in advertising and marketing, and I’m a creative person. However, I’d been working in the medical field for so long. I wanted to get back to doing something creative and was trying to figure out how to combine the two. I started focusing on issues that I had. Like, if I can solve a problem, then I can figure it all out. And one of the big issues I had was hair and dealing with facial hair since I was like 16.  And then I thought, there’s no black-owned laser hair removal services (in my area).

BGG: Opening a business during a global pandemic is no easy feat. Describe your experience and process. 
KWG: After landing on a business idea, I started looking into getting a bank loan, looking at spaces, and then the pandemic hit. That was actually a good and bad thing because I was kind of stuck into an almost signed contract for a space. And it was just not a good situation. I was just like, ‘Oh my God,’ and felt the pressure and was like what should I do? And sometimes you just have to be still, and the pandemic made me still. I was like, this isn’t going to work, and I let that go. I used the empty apartment in my home and that’s where we started the laser hair removal studio. Thankfully, I was able to get a construction crew in to renovate my downstairs area. We opened up and people started coming. However, I knew I didn’t want to stay in that space for long. Eventually, we moved to our location on Nostrand Avenue (in Brooklyn).

BGG: How did you get the word out about PeachFuzz Laser Studio? Did you tap into your marketing and advertising expertise? 
KWG: Thank God we got customers, which was so nuts because we just started. We started advertising on Instagram. My sister and I set up the systems and were like, ‘Okay, let’s see what happens.’ Social media played a tremendous role with getting the word out. I also think what brought so many people out was my authenticity. I was vulnerable and shared my own story and struggle with facial hair. I also shared “before” and “after” shots, which always resonate.

BGG: Speaking of authenticity, facial hair is such a taboo subject for many women. Why do you think transparency is so important in this line of business?
KWG: It makes such a difference because I see so many businesses where people are trying to do what I do. I think many believe that it’s easy once they see somebody else doing it and say, ‘Oh yeah, I could do that too.’ But you really have to find a business that resonates with you and tells your story. People will see if you’re just in it to try to make money or whatever. It has to be something authentic. I think that’s why we’re still around and we’ve done fairly well.

BGG: Tell me about Fuzz Clinic. Why was it important for you to develop a skincare brand too? 
KWG: There are brands that have specifically targeted women of color when it comes to hair because they already know that our hair type is different. It needs moisture. It needs all these things. However, it’s the same type of hair, but we are trying to get rid of it, but there’s no differentiation when it comes to hair removal.

So, I figured that we need products that really cater to us and our skincare issues like hyperpigmentation and ingrown hair. For example, for some people, if they shave — no matter what they do, they’re going to get an ingrown hair. That’s just the nature of how our particular hair grows — in a thick, curly fashion. It just goes right back underneath the skin. And yes, laser hair removal does help with that, but we developed these products to work in conjunction to support clients’ laser hair removal or just their laser hair removal journey. Also, at first, we just made samples and would give them out for free — we did that for two years. Customers would come back and tell us how well it worked. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to create a skincare line because there was a void missing.

fuzzclinic

Crooks Lane Media

BGG: I know there are several Fuzz Clinic products available for purchase. What product would you recommend for your average customer? 
KWG: I would say our Silky Botanical Shave Oil because that’s something, even if you were in Nebraska and you didn’t have a Black laser hair removal tech, you can go in a retail store and buy that and use that to shave. You put the oil on, and you would shave with it and then rinse it off. Just the oil itself helps to coat the hair. A lot of the time when I’d used shaving gels and stuff, it would just run right off and wouldn’t allow for a smooth shave where I wasn’t getting bumps or ingrown hairs. We find this works very well. This product is something that I’d recommend. Another preferred product is our sunscreen. Sunscreen is something that a lot of women of color don’t use although we know it can help prevent cancer and premature aging. When I tell them that it will prevent their dark marks from getting darker, that’s like the lightbulb going off. That’s when it kicks in.

BGG: What sets PeachFuzz Laser Studio apart from other hair removal salons?
KWG: Everyone is treated like a VIP! I love speaking, seeing and serving all of my clients.

BGG: What’s been the most surprising thing that you’ve learned since launching your businesses? 
KWG: I’ve learned to give myself grace. I put a lot of pressure on myself and it’s like, I know what I know. And I’m now figuring out what I don’t know. And there’s a lot that you don’t know when you’re entering a situation where it’s new. I don’t have a precedent there for me to figure this out. A lot of times when you’re a woman of color and starting a business, there is no role model — you’re just rolling with it and figuring it out. I’m learning to give myself grace. Things are going to go wrong, but what am I going to do about it?

I also want to enjoy the ride while I’m on it. I’ve created this business and I’m able to move from what I was doing before and now I’m working for myself and not only that, but I also have a staff of women as well, where this is circulating the Black dollar. It’s now more than just myself — there are other people involved.  I know I have to work hard and keep at it. I’m still learning as I go, but trying not to drive myself crazy. So, I’m learning to give myself grace.

BGG: What are Peach Fuzz Skin Studio’s most popular services?
KWG: The two most booked services are the full-face laser and resilient laser. We cater to women of color number one and then women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A lot of women end up having excessive facial hair as a result of that condition. So, I feel like there’s no clinic or hair removal spot that is talking to these people about this issue, especially when there’s women of color dealing with it.

Keisha Wagner-Gaymon with her two children at the PeachFuzz/FuzzClinic launch party in Brooklyn. Photo: Crooks Lane Media

Keisha Wagner-Gaymon with her two children at the PeachFuzz/FuzzClinic launch party in Brooklyn. Photo: Crooks Lane Media

BGG: Being a wife and mom of two comes with its own set of challenges. How do you balance being an entrepreneur and mother? What does your support system look like? 
KWG: Thank God I have my sister, Kristin (Wagner), who is also the chief operating officer. She helps out with my kids. I also have my mom who is probably about six minutes away from where I live. She’s always going to be there to help take care of them. So, I’m very blessed in that way. I don’t know how else I would do what I do without them. It’s like when your kids are not in a safe space or you don’t feel comfortable, you can’t function. Of course, my husband is supportive, but it can be challenging.

BGG: What advice would you give to other aspiring Black female entrepreneurs?
KWG: My advice to any person that’s trying to start their own business is this: You’re going to be scared — do it scared, do it nervous, but just do it!

PeachFuzz Laser Studio is located, 449 Nostrand Ave 2nd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11216. For bookings and more information, click here.

Do you get laser hair removal treatments? If so, do you go to a Black-owned studio/salon?

Magical Memories: Interview with Disney Dreamer Kayla Nelson

It’s hard to believe it’s already been a month since I attended and covered the 2022 Disney Dreamers Academy in Orlando, FL. The 4-day event and mentoring program hosted by Walt Disney World Resort was an unforgettable experience for me, so I can only imagine the positive impact it had on the 100 teenagers from across the country who were accepted into the coveted program.

Having the chance to unlock their imaginations and dream big with the encouragement and support of mentors at “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” was an experience I’m sure they will never forget.

For Kayla Nelson, a high school senior from the suburbs of Chicago, being a Disney Dreamer was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that she’ll forever cherish. I had a chance to catch up with the dedicated basketball player and aspiring educator to hear about her memorable experience.

Below, check out our Q&A:

Disney Dreamers Academy 2022

Photo by Todd Anderson

BGG: How would you describe the Disney Dreamers Academy in three words? 
Kayla Nelson: Inspirational, informative and fun!

BGG: How did you hear about the program? What was the application process like for you?
KN: I heard about the program through my mom. She told me to apply and I did. I had to answer a couple questions about my aspirations and why I wanted to accomplish these things and how I would make them happen.

BGG: Tell me how you felt when you found out you were selected to be one of the 100 students to attend the 2022 Dreamers Academy? What were your first thoughts?
KN: When I first found out, I was definitely excited but also nervous because I had no idea what to expect. The first things that came to mind was what I was going to wear and how my teachers would react because they knew about my application. So overall, I was extremely excited and overwhelmed.

BGGHad you ever visited Walt Disney World prior to the mentoring program? If not, did it live up to your expectations? If so, how? 
KN: Prior to the Dreamers Academy, I hadn’t visited Walt Disney World. While I was there I was extremely overwhelmed by how much there was to do. Between the four parks and the fireworks shows, Walt Disney World definitely lived up to my expectations. My teachers and friends had been telling me that I would have so much fun. They told me what rides to get on and they didn’t lead me down the wrong path! 

BGG: Can you share your most memorable moment from the entire event?
KN: My biggest highlight was meeting Kelly Rowland. I got the opportunity to talk to her and get a picture, which had me a little star struck. But getting the opportunity to talk to her and have a conversation with the one and only Kelly Rowland was truly the highlight. 

kelly-rowland-disney-dreamers

BGG: Have you kept in touch with any of the other Dreamers?
KN: I’ve kept in touch with a lot of the other Dreamers. I text them all the time and they comment on my pictures and I do as well. It’s really like a family that we have and it’s funny because we were only around each other for four days.

BGG: What was the most surprising thing that you learned from attending the Disney Dreamers Academy?
KN: The most surprising thing I learned was how many jobs there are for people within the Walt Disney Company. This whole time I just thought it was the typical amusement park where you have the people who operate the machines and the people who let people into the park etc., but there was so much more within the company that makes it more than just a TV channel or an amusement park.

BGG: What advice would you give someone who hopes to be selected to participate in this program? 
KN: My advice would be to just go for it! There were so many doubts in my head when my mom first told me about it like maybe my dream isn’t big enough, or what if i don’t get picked, but looking back I wish someone would’ve told me not to worry and to just do it. 

disney-dreamers-2022

Photo by Todd Anderson

BGG: What was your biggest takeaway from this experience? 
KN: I learned that my dream is big enough. I also learned to persevere through the setbacks because my time will come and when the time comes to take it head on. 

BGG: What is your dream for the future?
KN: My dream is to become a teacher within two years of me graduating college. I want to become a history teacher because I feel like history is one of  the most important subjects simply because it forces conversation and allows students to see other perspectives. 

BGG: How do you hope to change the world and make it a better place? 
KN: I hope to change the world starting with teaching  students history. Teaching students history will show students how the world has evolved. With students knowing and understanding how the world has evolved for the better will hopefully give students the push to evolve themselves and contribute to making the world a better place.

For more information about the Disney Dreamers Academy, check out the program’s official website.

Are you a mentor or did you have a mentor as a high school or college student?  

‘Pip’s Island’ Puts Your Child in the Center of a Unique Immersive Adventure + Q&A with Co-Creator Rania Ajami

Family entertainment is changing. Immersive experiences are taking hold and Pip’s Island is a prime example of where engaging, interactive fun for children is heading. Located steps from Times Square in New York City, the sprawling multi-level space is the perfect spot to embark on the incredibly unique journey.

The hour-long adventure is a one-of-a-kind hybrid performance that successfully blends powerful storytelling, digital gadgetry, animation, captivating space design and music into one unforgettable theatrical experience. From dance breaks to puppetry to problem-solving scenarios, the innovative production puts your child (ages 10 and under) in the center of it all.

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Tiny explorers are sent on a heroic quest to save the island from an evil villain, with obstacles at every turn. Led by an effervescent park ranger and Pip — the show’s central character — the mini explorers encounter a wondrous cast of personalities.

While kids are the main attractions, accompanying adults are far from left out. In fact, we’re referred to as the assistant explorers. With a little help from us here and there, the kids walk through several scenes with various activities that ladder up to five empowering pillars: activate, investigate, build, imagine and connect. Each of the experiences has a teachable moment that resonates with children. Throughout the mission, the mini explorers are called by name (thanks to the handy nametags) to assist with tasks. This is a nice touch that parents will appreciate because it creates a sense of belonging and personalization within a group setting.

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Photo by Paul Mariano

To say my kids (ages 5 and 9) loved the experience would be an understatement. My son, Marcus, was tasked with the job of carrying the treasured handbook throughout the experience. Let’s just say he took his responsibility very seriously! My daughter enjoyed steering the ship in one setup, as well as the enthralling storytelling and eye-catching details of each design space.

As a mom who’s always on the hunt for fun family activities to do in the city, Pip’s Island tops my list of recommendations. If you’re looking for a memorable, unique and entertaining way to unlock your child’s imagination, this is it!

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I recently caught up with Rania Ajami, one of the co-founders behind this fascinating venture. Read on to learn more about what sparked the creation of Pip’s Island and what visitors can expect.

BGG: What was your inspiration behind creating Pip’s Island?
Rania Ajami: Being a mother was my greatest inspiration. Plus, my background is in filmmaking and storytelling. It was just having my own kids and seeing that there’s really nothing out there that was enriching and unique for children. I was also frustrated by the fact that I’d have to book a lesson or schedule something. There weren’t many options outside of the usual offerings of the museum, etc.

BGG: What was your mindset when conceptualizing the brand?
RA: We wanted to create a children’s brand where any child would feel that it’s enriching. In fact, there are children that sometimes they show up and they’re timid or they’re scared, but when they go through the entirety of the journey, they come out feeling so happy about themselves. We’re really about making kids feel like heroes.

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Photo by Paul Mariano

BGG: What can visitors expect when exploring Pip’s Island?
RA:  It’s a true hero’s journey for children where they are part of the entire unfolding of the story. From the moment they enter our submersive world upstairs, they move through these very rich multi-sensorial environments. They are met by actors who are different characters from our world. And from the get-go they’re given a mission to save the island. In every room you have a task, the story unfolds, and you really become wrapped up in the world and journey. We’ve had children walk out and say that it felt like they had walked into a book.

BGG: We know that it’s an interactive, immersive experience for kids, but how do adults factor into the experience and what can they expect?
RA: The emphasis is really on the kids, but the design, music and the script are also done in a way that grownups enjoy it. There’s humor that grownups get that the kids don’t. We want it to feel entertaining, like a Pixar movie for everyone.

BGG: How would you describe Pip’s Island in three words?
RA: Wonder, empowerment, and magic.

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Photo by Paul Mariano

BGG: How did you come up with the name Pip’s Island? Is there any significance, background or history connected to that name?
RA: For us, Pip is the hero of the story. Ultimately, only he can defeat the bad guy. But the idea of Pip came many years ago when we were thinking of something that represented new life. So, that’s where we came up with this boy’s name being Pip. Sort of the beginning of this island, life and nature.

BGG: What surprised you the most when creating Pip’s Island? Was there anything that surprised you that you weren’t expecting?
RA:  The empowerment element was the most surprising. When we first started we didn’t realize that kids would come out feeling as if they found this inner power. When we saw that in our very first workshop, we thought, ‘Wow that’s the key to this!’ So, we began thinking about how to nurture that. How do we bring that about in children? How do we make them feel like they’re part of this expedition and that they’re working with other kids? Everything we’re doing serves this idea that children are the heroes, the stars of the show.

BGG: Why did you choose Times Square for the location?
RA: After I graduated from college, I moved to New York where I earned my master’s degree in film at NYU. After that, I started working as a filmmaker in the downtown theater scene. So, my community of collaborators are here in New York. Again, as a mom living in New York, I was privy to what the city offered for kids. As for the Time Square location, it was almost by chance. It just happened to be a property that was large enough. And the landlord believes in what we’re doing. It just kind of all magically came together.

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Photo by Paul Mariano

BGG: What’s the biggest takeaway you want visitors to have upon leaving Pip’s Island?
RA: We want kids to realize that they all have an inner star, unmatched power and amazing potential. We want them to know that they can come back again and again. It isn’t just a show that you just go and see once. The whole idea is that there are many adventures that will constantly change. We want people to know that we’re a children’s brand that offers so much more than just seeing a one-time show.

BGG: What’s next for Pip’s Island?
RA: One thing we’ve been developing alongside the experience is this very large mythological world. Right now we’re working on a comic book and other books. The idea is that kids will come back and there will be different adventures that they’ll go on during their visit to the island.

Pip’s Island is located 400 W. 42nd Street, New York, NY. Visit Pip’s Island for tickets and more information.

Have you ever visited Pip’s Island? How do you keep your kids engaged and entertained beyond a typical trip to the movies or museum?

Dermatologist-Approved Winter Skin Tips To Keep Skin Healthy All Season Long

It’s no denying that Old Man Winter has arrived. With cities across the country dipping into the single digits over the weekend, freezing weather is officially here. That means keeping skin moisturized is more important than ever.  Frigid winds and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on skin so taking the proper steps to keeping it healthy is key.

I caught up with Dove dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara to get her tips and advice on how to keep skin in tip-top shape all season long.

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BGG: What are the biggest changes your skin undergoes during the colder months? 

Dr. Mona Gohara: In the winter months, your skin is subject to cold temperatures outside and the jacked-up heat inside. Both can irritate the skin barrier causing inflamed, itchy and flaky skin.

BGG: For women suffering from skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, what’s the most crucial tip to help them protect and treat their skin during the winter?
DG: Be gentle to your skin and avoid irritants. Wool sweaters or a harsh cleanser used in the shower that strip our protective skin barrier could be stoking the fire.

BGG: Should you apply extra moisturizer during the winter to your skin? If so, why is it important to your skincare regime? What do you recommend?
DG: I think it is important to provide moisture to your skin every single day. This can be in the form of cleanser, such as Dove Body Wash, which has a formula with 1/4 moisturizing cream, leaving your skin softer after just one shower. If additional moisture is needed, using a cream instead of a lotion will give you the most bang for your buck. Creams are mainly oils, while lotions are primarily water based. Moisturizing right after the shower within 3 minutes is optimal.

BGG: There’s a misconception that SPF is only necessary during the summer and warmer months, why is it critical to apply year-round?
DG: If you can see your hand in front of your face, then there is enough UV light to cause skin cancer or damage. Also, visible light which comes in the form of lightbulbs in your office or home can cause skin damage. Therefore, SPF 30 or higher should be a part of your daily routine, not just when the sun is shining bright.

BGG: What temperature is the best for showering during the winter?
DG: Warm water is the best temperature. Keep it not too hot and not too cold.

BGG: When it comes to properly cleansing the body via bathing or showering, is one better than the other for your skin?
DG: It’s a personal preference, but I prefer showers.

BGG:Is there a motion (circular, etc.) that you tell your patients to use that’s more beneficial for washing your skin? Loofah sponge or wash cloth? Which is less harsh for the skin?
DG: Soft cotton washcloths or your hands are the best to use. Loofahs can be a bit too harsh and can do damage to the skin barrier. Use a circular motion to stimulate blood flow.

BGG: How often should the skin be exfoliated with scrubs, polishes, etc.? Why? 
DG: Exfoliate once a week at minimum. We lose 50 million dead skin cells a day – that’s a lot! Leaving them to linger can leave the skin dull and less vibrant.

BGG: Why do you recommend Dove’s Body Wash and/or Foam Wash?
DG: Dove Body Wash and Shower Foam are made of the gentlest cleansers, are sulfate free, pH neutral and Dove Body Wash is also microbiome gentle. The skin microbiome is a living protective layer and requires gentle skin care to remain balanced. Harsh cleansers can disrupt the microbiome, but Dove Body Wash is microbiome gentle. A win-win!

What moisturizers and body wash do you use to combat harsh winters?

Olympic Gold Medalist Dominique Dawes Talks Family, Healthy Eating and Her Legacy

I remember 1996 like it was yesterday. I was a sophomore in high school and can vividly recall being transfixed by the Olympics. It was the first time that I watched the world’s biggest sports spectacle on TV and one gymnast in particular was responsible for my fascination—Dominique Dawes. The gold-medal winning champion looked like me and that was mind-blowing to see, even in the mid-1990s.

That year, Dawes and the rest of the U.S. women’s gymnastics team (often referred to as the “Magnificent Seven”) took home the U.S. gold. She also won the individual bronze medal—becoming the first African-American to win an individual Olympic medal in women’s gymnastics. These accolades and ground-breaking records inspired countless young African-American girls and women (myself included) to pursue their dreams in sports and beyond. So, you can imagine how excited I was to meet her at the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration earlier this year during the GoGo squeeZ activation.

Now a mom of two, the former gymnast is a GoGo squeeZ Goodness Ambassador where she helps further the applesauce and yogurt brand’s mission of making it easier for kids and families to be a little healthier and happier every day.

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I recently caught up with Dominique to discuss food, family and of course winning the gold! Check out our Q&A below:

BGG: What’s your favorite meal to prepare for your children? Why?
Dominique Dawes: For my two kids, I must be creative, but I have some picky eaters. One day they will love my mac and cheese with roasted cauliflower added in and then another day they won’t even touch it.  My girls do love Brussels sprouts and broccoli so I have made a few different renditions of those vegetables. Roasting, sautéing, adding garlic, twist of lemon, and a few other ingredients that will attract their last buds. And anything that provides protein, fruit and/or veggies is a win in my book when it comes to snacks. Bonus points if I can take it on the go, like GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ or peanut butter and a banana.

BGG: How do you incorporate GoGo squeeZ into your daughters’ meals? Do you have any fun recipes that you make with the applesauces?
DD: My girls love granola bars, so one of our favorite things to make together are my YogurtZ Bars using GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ. We make them using Strawberry or Banana GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ, fruit, nuts, and a few other simple ingredients. They take just 25 minutes to make, and the GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ gives them 4 grams of protein and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. I add that to their lunch to balance out their meal. They feel like they’re having a treat, but it’s something I feel good about them eating!  Also, I love to add GoGo squeeZ YogurtZ to their smoothies!

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BGG: How do you instill healthy eating habits in your children at such a young age?
DD: I provide them with a variety of different healthy options and I love spices and fresh herbs that add to the flavoring of all types of foods that I make for my girls.  They have enjoyed going to the farmer’s market and we talk about the different foods and how they are grown.  For the past two years, we have had a small herb and vegetable garden on our deck so my daughters feel like they have some ownership over the food that we make. Weekly, they will cut fresh herbs or a vegetable from our garden and add it to a dish that we make together.

BGG: How do your daughters inspire you?
DD: They remind me what’s important in life. It’s about enjoying the little things.  When we will go for a walk and they will stop to pick a flower and comment on its fragrance, to pick up a caterpillar and inspect every spot on its back, they will stop when they hear a bird chirping and wait patiently for it to fly from a tree…I am amazed to see life through the eyes of my daughters because that is when I realize that all the things that I worry about are not important.

BGG: What’s the biggest misconception about motherhood?
DD: That motherhood is routine. Every day is different from the next.

BGG: I know you started taking gymnastics classes when you were six, did you always have dreams of becoming an Olympic Gold Medalist?
DD: My dreams of becoming an Olympic wasn’t until I was around 11 years old.  I won a local competition and the journey began soon after that.

BGG: As the first African-American to make the national women’s team and the first to win an individual medal in women’s gymnastics, what advice would you give to aspiring young gymnasts of color?
DD: Well, the beauty is that Gabby Douglas and Simone Biles have continued to pave the way for young girls of color to see the sport of gymnastics as an opportunity for them to excel. Having positive role models that are examples of a strong work ethic and never giving is key.

BGG: If you weren’t a three-time Olympic champion, what kind of career would you have pursued?
DD: FBI agent.

BGG: Would you ever want your girls to become professional athletes?
DD: No, I want them to have a more well-rounded childhood and not make the same sacrifices that I did.

BGG: It’s been 21 years since you won the Olympic gold, other than winning, what stands out to you the most about that time in your life?
DD: What stands out most is that even after 21 years of making history people still come up to up to me to talk about that historic moment.  They remember where they were and the emotions they felt.  Just the other day two young kids came to my door for a photo because their dad and grandmother told them about my career.  So, I showed them my gold medal and they both lit up and talked about my performances that they looked at on YouTube.

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BGG: What fun activities do you and your family enjoy doing to stay healthy?
DD: We are a very active family.  My girls don’t care to sit still of long so we are always out walking, at the park, biking, going to open gym at a local gymnastics gym or just dancing at our home.  My husband loves to have dance parties with the girls and both my girls love performing gymnastics moves in our living room so there is never dull moment at home.

BGG: Do you have a workout regimen to maintain your healthy lifestyle?  
DD: My workout regimen today is being active and engaged with my girls daily. It’s incredible how two toddlers can put me through a much more rigorous workout keeping up with them than a fitness class.

BGG: What do you want your legacy to be?
DD: I would like to be known as a mother that put her faith and family first.  Inspiring others along the way either it be through my Olympic accomplishments or philanthropic endeavors (encouraging others to live a healthy lifestyle) would be icing on the cake.

Do you remember watching Dominique Dawes during the 1996 Olympics? What healthy snack wins the gold in your household?