SpearHead Conversations Podcast

SEVEN: ARTIST/ CREATOR OF FINNA

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with the uniquely inspiring guest known simply as Seven. Seven, whose real name is Joshua Taylor, is an artist and clothing designer from Milwaukee. His brand, Finna, has become a recognizable name in the city, celebrated for its accessible art and clean, meaningful designs. Originally from Elgin, Illinois, Seven shares his remarkable journey into the world of art and fashion. After a 26-year career in logistics, he made a bold transition to pursue his passion for art. In the episode, he delves into his creative process, the challenges he has faced, and the support system that has sustained him throughout his transformation. The conversation takes an intimate turn as Seven discusses his motivators, including a poignant moment with his daughter that affirmed the significance of his work. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, particularly for men, and reflects on how it has influenced his life and artistry. Listeners gain insight into how Seven balances his time between creating art and designing clothing. He reflects on what it means to be an authentic creator in a supportive community like Milwaukee. The episode is rich with personal anecdotes, professional insights, and heartfelt advice for aspiring artists. Join Xavier and Seven for an engaging discussion that highlights the beauty of Milwaukee’s art scene and the profound impact of staying true to oneself.

SHELBY MCEWEN: TEAM USA OLYMPIC HIGH JUMPER

In this episode of "Spearhead Conversations," host Xavier Mercado is joined by elite athlete Shelby McEwen, a standout high jumper aiming to reach his fullest potential and compete in the Paris Summer Olympics. Shelby delves into his journey from a creatively inclined high school student and avid basketball player to a decorated track and field champion. He offers motivational insights on the importance of discovering one's calling, having faith, working tirelessly, and trusting the process despite challenges.
Shelby recounts his transition from basketball to track, the support he received from his faith and family, and significant milestones such as becoming an SEC champion, a three-time All-American, and a Tokyo Olympic finalist. He also discusses his training regimen in Houston under coach Patrick Powell, his mental and physical preparation for high-pressure events, the impact of COVID-19 on his athletic career, and his upcoming high jump competitions in China and the Czech Republic leading up to the Olympic trials.
In addition to his sporting achievements, Shelby encourages young athletes to remain undeterred by negativity and to relentlessly pursue their dreams. This episode is a testament to Shelby McEwen's dedication, hard work, and unyielding belief in his potential, offering inspiration not just to athletes, but to anyone striving to achieve greatness.

JONAH DENAE: POET, SPOKEN WORD ARTIST

In the latest episode of "Spearhead Conversations," Xavier Mercado interviews poet and spoken word artist Jonah Denae from Milwaukee. Jonah shares her journey from a modest upbringing, crediting her first-grade teacher, Miss Davis, for igniting her passion for poetry. She reflects on how poetry has given her a voice and contributed to her resilience. Jonah discusses how Milwaukee's diverse culture and music scene have influenced her artistry. Starting with battle rapping in 8th grade, she drew inspiration from artists like Nas, Jay-Z, and Tupac, blending poetry with music to create a unique style. Recent achievements include her book "Beyond Thin Walls," performances at the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and being a finalist in the Milwaukee youth poet laureate competition. Jonah also shares the challenges she faced on her creative journey. Looking forward, Jonah talks about upcoming projects such as her new single "Last Woman Standing," more books, and ventures into acting and music video production. She and Xavier highlight the importance of authenticity and perseverance for aspiring artists.

SAM CURRO: THIRD COAST HEATING & COOLING

In this episode of SPEARHEAD CONVERSATIONS, host Xavier Mercado interviews Sam Curro, the co-founder of Third Coast Heating and Cooling. Sam discusses the immense stress and financial pressures he faced while launching his HVAC company, sharing motivational stories about his journey. He proudly recounts key milestones, such as acquiring a box truck to serve as a mobile shop, highlighting his drive to grow his business. Sam and Xavier delve into the dual nature of living in Milwaukee, a city known for its beauty and grittiness. They reflect on personal hardships and the trauma embedded in the streets, emphasizing the importance of cherishing life's blessings. Through candid conversations, they share their experiences of survival and resilience in the face of adversity. A major focus of this episode is Sam's dedication to community service. He talks about organizing clothing drives and fundraisers for the homeless, which he conducts without any government assistance. Sam's advice to young people and aspiring entrepreneurs is to remain authentic and pursue their dreams without seeking undue attention. The discussion also covers the specifics of the HVAC industry. Sam describes the satisfaction of completing jobs and the challenges of fixing substandard work. He shares the origin story of Third Coast Heating and Cooling and its ongoing climb of success.

MR NEW YORK

In this energetic episode of "Spearhead Conversations," Xavier Mercado interviews Brandis Frater, known as Mr. New York, a DJ and prominent figure in Milwaukee nightlife. Mr. New York shares career highlights, including a night with NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his memorable first Summerfest show, discussing the challenges he has overcome to achieve his success.
Listeners learn about his background, from his early years in Virginia, Brooklyn, to settling in Milwaukee at age eight, and his early interests such as tap dancing and collecting DVDs. Mr. New York talks about his transition from house parties to club gigs, his freestyle DJ style, and staying ahead of musical trends using social platforms, crediting mentors like DJ D Matic and DJ Mighty Thor for his growth.
The conversation also includes lighter moments, such as Xavier and Mr. New York doing impressions of Jim Carrey's characters and sharing personal anecdotes. Wrapping up, Mr. New York discusses his aspirations, like owning a venue and curating major events, and emphasizes the importance of persistence and community support from Milwaukee and throughout the Midwest. This episode is a must-listen for those aspiring to DJing and perseverance.

STUDIO SESSION WITH STEVE 'THE SAUCE' HYBICKI

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews the talented music producer Steve Hybicki, also known as 'The Sauce.' Steve shares his journey from discovering artists on Instagram to creating hit songs in the studio. He delves into his collaboration with artist Valerie Lighthart and discusses the challenges of working remotely versus in-person. Listeners will hear about Steve's remarkable achievements, including his involvement in the 9x Platinum hit song 'Black Beatles.' He also shares his ambitious goal of reaching 50 million streams in the next decade and his ongoing legal battles in the music industry, providing a candid look at the complexities of his career. Xavier and Steve explore the transformative power of sobriety and how it has impacted Steve's life and work. They also discuss the joys and challenges of parenting, offering insights into how Steve balances his professional and personal life. The episode concludes with a discussion on the hurdles of building a house in Mexico, showcasing Steve's determination and resilience. This conversation blends professional insights, personal anecdotes, and future aspirations, making it a must-listen for fans of music production and authentic storytelling.

RAVONN POSEY JR: BIG P

In this episode of SPEARHEAD CONVERSATIONS, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Ravonn Posey Jr. also known as ‘Big P’, a dedicated and passionate hip-hop artist from Milwaukee. They delve deep into the various barriers Big P has faced in his rap career, including the pressure to conform to certain stereotypes within the industry and the challenges of gaining recognition from a city that often goes unnoticed.
Big P shares his journey from being a basketball player to becoming a rapper, discussing his initial concerns about perception and judgment in this transition. The conversation also touches on the importance of presentation in the music industry, the physical demands of live performances, and how Big P's active lifestyle plays a crucial role in his preparation.
Reflecting on his early experiences in the music scene, Big P expresses gratitude for the positive reception of his first EP '25 20', and discusses the response to his latest production ‘Weed & Wine’. As Big P continues to promote his brand, Bodega North, the journey remains nonstop.
The episode concludes with Big P offering advice for aspiring artists and youth, encouraging them to know themselves and to always be open to learning. Through heartfelt discussions about his music, personal growth, and community support, listeners gain an intimate look at Big P's life and the influences that have shaped his artistic journey.

DOMINIQUE HOWARD: MO CITY

In this vibrant episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado engages in a compelling dialogue with the talented hip-hop artist Dominique Howard also known as Mo City. Originating from the dynamic streets of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mo City sheds light on his latest album "Milwaukee W.I.," delving into the deeply personal inspirations behind his tracks and the city that has profoundly influenced his artistic journey. Xavier and Mo City embark on a heartfelt discussion regarding the profound impact of Mo City's late father, who served not only as a cornerstone in his life but also as a guiding force in his musical endeavors. The episode offers listeners insight into Mo City's creative process, illustrating how he channels his emotions to craft music that resonates deeply with his audience. The conversation also underscores the importance of collaboration and perseverance in the entertainment industry, as both Xavier and Mo City share their insights on contemporary hip-hop conflicts and the evolving landscape of music videos. Furthermore, Mo City reflects on his evolution from an uncertain performer to a recognized figure in the music scene, recounting the challenges and milestones encountered along the way. Join us on Spearhead Conversations for an episode brimming with inspiring narratives, genuine emotions, and a comprehensive exploration of the journey of a hip-hop artist, narrated firsthand by Mo City himself. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or newly acquainted with his music, this episode promises a captivating exploration of passion, creativity, and resilience within the realm of music.

KEVIN SILVA: QUIET VOICE PRODUCTIONS

In a captivating episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado engages in a profound dialogue with Kevin Silva, a gifted Latino music producer with roots in Puerto Rico and a burgeoning presence in Milwaukee's music landscape. Silva shares the gripping trajectory of his musical journey, starting from his remarkable ability to play the movie theme music at the tender age of four by ear, to his establishment of Quiet Voice Productions (QVP) and his ambitious vision for shaping the local music industry.
Throughout the discussion, Silva provides poignant insights into his formative years, influenced by his family's musical heritage and a supportive environment that nurtured his passion for music. He candidly reflects on the challenges he faced, including experiences of bullying in school and personal struggles that have profoundly shaped his career trajectory. Silva also illuminates his creative process, emphasizing his departure from conventional genre boundaries and his dedication to crafting unique sounds for local artists.
 
Listeners gain a glimpse into Silva's diverse talents, extending beyond music into realms such as drawing, animation, and cinematography. His narrative is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of artistic expression. This episode serves as a testament not only to Silva's exceptional talent but also his profound commitment to making a lasting impact on Milwaukee's music scene and beyond, showcasing the intersection of music, passion, resilience, and ambition.

GEGO Y NONY: LATIN URBAN DUO

Join host Xavier Mercado on this exhilarating episode of Spearhead Conversations as we delve into the vibrant world of reggaeton with Milwaukee's dynamic duo, Gego Y Nony. Discover how these talented brothers, with roots stretching from Puerto Rico to the heart of the Midwest, are transforming the reggaeton scene with their clean, exhilarating sound and powerful narratives drawn from real-life experiences. In this episode, Gego Y Nony open up about their unique musical journey, the challenges they’ve faced personally and professionally, and how they've shattered boundaries with their authentic and heartfelt music. Delve into their creative process, which involves rigorous studio sessions and a meticulous approach to song production, ensuring each track resonates with listeners on a profound level. Learn about their aspirations, from Nony’s dreams of winning a Grammy and improving his family’s living situation to Gego's goal of achieving worldwide recognition and becoming a positive influence for the youth through music. The brothers also share insights into their first major project, "Frontea University," discussing the innovative blend of film and music that marks a new chapter in their artistic careers. Whether discussing the intricacies of blending traditional and modern reggaeton or recounting touching moments from their first live performance, Gego Y Nony's story is one of resilience, ambition, and the unyielding power of family and art. Tune in to this inspiring episode of Spearhead Conversations and get an intimate glimpse into the lives of two artists who are not just making music but are crafting a legacy that resonates across borders and generations.