SpearHead Conversations Podcast

STEVEN VAN PLEW: VISUAL EDITOR

Meet Steven Van Plew, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin's South Side, whose remarkable journey encompasses various artistic pursuits. From his early days, Steven has been deeply connected to his roots, forming an unbreakable bond with his childhood friend Xavier during their shared Milwaukee upbringing, where they even recall baths in the sink. He is more than just a creative mind; he's a Spearhead visual editor, leading the way in crafting captivating visuals. Despite his early desire for artistic expression, Steven chose a different path at Milwaukee School of the Arts. While others aimed to shine on stage, he delved into the technical realm, setting the stage for his journey into video production. His foundation in this field was solidified at Milwaukee Area Technical College (M.A.T.C.), where he honed his skills and set his sights on a bigger stage. With courage as his guide, Steven ventured to Los Angeles, California, following his dreams in the TV/Film industry. For the past 12 years, he has immersed himself in the dynamic world of entertainment, continuously pushing his boundaries and striving for excellence. His passion for art has remained unwavering, inspiring him to explore new avenues beyond production. Outside the studio, Steven's creativity knows no bounds. His evolution as a professional leather maker led to the birth of "Van Plew Co," a venture inspired by crafting dog collars. This artistic endeavor goes hand in hand with his instructional YouTube video series, where he generously shares insights and expertise with fellow leather enthusiasts. By forming connections within the global leather-making community, he has earned the admiration of seasoned artisans, a testament to his dedication and skill. As he prepares to launch a podcast celebrating the Leather Community, it's clear that Steven Van Plew is more than just a professional in his fields. He embodies resilience, creativity, and a fierce determination to overcome any obstacle. "Spearhead" is not just a title; it's a reflection of his indomitable spirit and his unyielding commitment to pursuing his passions.

OMAR LOZANO: PROMOTIONAL AMBASSADOR/VIDEOGRAPHER

Omar Lozano, a prominent figure in the creative scene, holds the esteemed title of Promotional Ambassador of Spearhead Conversations. Hailing from the vibrant city of Milwaukee, he is deeply rooted in the Southside community, having spent his formative years on 16th and Rodgers. However, his life took a transformative turn during his childhood when he moved to Mexico for four years. Despite facing the challenges of adapting to a new environment and language, upon his return to Milwaukee, Omar conquered the barriers of Spanish as his first language and embraced English with resilience. From an early age, music captured Omar's heart, and his passion was ignited by the influence of his uncle's musical talents. As he delved deeper into the world of music, a new avenue opened up for him - the realm of videography. The profound love for music naturally paved the way for his exploration of visual storytelling, and his journey as a self-taught videographer began. Omar's dedication to his craft earned him the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed Milwaukee natives like Jason Abraham of Hupy and Abraham, S.C., and Steve Philip, also known as Philly Fly Boy. His unique artistic visuals resonated with the local community, and his work became a testament to the impact an individual can make through their creative expression. Spearhead Conversations, recognizing the significance of Omar's contributions, delves into his very essence, shedding light on the profound way he has influenced Milwaukee's artistic landscape. As a Promotional Ambassador, Omar Lozano continues to share his artistic journey and passion for music and videography, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination and an unyielding commitment to self-improvement. Through his remarkable work, he has left an indelible mark on Milwaukee, enriching the cultural fabric of the city and leaving a lasting legacy for aspiring artists to follow.

NICK KOSCIELNIAK: DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Nick Koscielniak is a proud South Milwaukee native whose passion for visual storytelling led him to spearhead the field of director of photography. As the founder of NK Video Productions, he has cemented his place in the industry with a keen eye for capturing compelling moments. Nick's childhood was enriched by spending ample time outdoors with his family, fostering a love for exploration and discovery. From a young age, Nick displayed a natural curiosity and an innate desire to understand the inner workings of the world around him. If something had a button, he wouldn't hesitate to push it and play with it until he comprehended its mechanics. This insatiable curiosity served as the driving force behind his career in TV and video production, pushing him to attend MATC and refine his skills. Throughout his professional journey, Nick worked for Bally Sports, where he had the incredible opportunity to work closely with esteemed sports teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Milwaukee Bucks. His dedication and passion for his craft shone through in every project, earning him respect and admiration within the industry. Beyond his career achievements, Nick is a devoted family man, proud to be a girl dad, and deeply cherishes his role as a husband. A true team player, he finds fulfillment in helping others and actively contributes to collaborative efforts within his community. With his artistic vision and compassionate nature, Nick continues to leave a positive impact on the world through his work and his interactions with others.

DANIEL ZEA ZAPATA: DZ/ MORNING SHOW HOST, 103.7 KISS FM MILWAUKEE

Meet Daniel Zea Zapata aka “DZ”, a remarkable individual whose journey from Medellin, Colombia, to Illinois is an inspiring account of courage and resilience. At the age of three, his family emigrated in search of political asylum, making him a minority in his new home. Despite facing challenges, he embraced his fluent Spanish-speaking background and navigated through life with determination. Growing up in the era of Michael Jordan, Dz was passionate about sports, music, and building things. Music became an integral part of his life, instilled by the joyous family parties and the pride that resonated through the melodies. The diverse range of 90's music also had a profound influence on him, shaping his love for the art form. Throughout high school, Dz was actively involved in football, wrestling, and track and field, showcasing his drive and dedication. Pursuing his passion for communication, he attended college and interned at the renowned 103.7 radio station. Despite the challenges of traveling daily from Sheboygan to Milwaukee, he took initiative and worked tirelessly, even taking graveyard shifts on the radio, all while excelling as an intern. His journey wasn't without obstacles, as he faced barriers in finding his space and placement in the competitive radio industry. However, Dz's hard work and passionate dedication paid off when he eventually landed a spot on "the Morning Show" at 103.7 KissFM, a testament to his talent and tenacity. Daniel Zea Zapata's story is an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the power of perseverance and passion in achieving our dreams. His ability to overcome challenges and make a name for himself in the industry is a testament to his remarkable character and the indomitable spirit that defines him. Spearhead is proud to have this time as we dip into the life of DZ! WEPPPPAAA!!!

PROMISE: HOST/ THE MORNING GRIND/ HOT 105.7

Meet Promise, a Milwaukee native who had a diverse upbringing in various neighborhoods, nurtured by a family deeply rooted in faith. Despite his parents' split at the age of 13, he was primarily raised by his mother, both parents always made sure Promise and his siblings felt loved and supported. Early on, he developed a passion for music, plastering his walls with posters of rappers and singers, and even imitating on-air personalities, fueling his love for the art.
In middle and high school, Promise found himself immersed in the music industry. Post High school through tours of historically black colleges and universities. It was during one of these tours that the advice of a fraternity member steered him toward a path in communication. Following a conversation with a doctor, he decided to attend Carroll University, where his journey into radio began. With dedication and determination, Promise honed his passion as an on air personality.
Taking a leap of faith, Promise landed an internship with a local Milwaukee radio station, which eventually led onto an impactful opportunity with IHeart Radio. Fast-forward to now. Promise is now the host of "The Morning Grind" on Hot 105.7. Now, he gets to interview both local talents and celebrities, showcasing his versatile skills and passion for communication. However, that's not all that Promise brings to the table; he has a hidden comedic talent and has even opened for world-renowned comedians.
With a bag full of greatness, Promise surprises his audience with every endeavor he embarks upon. From his early love for music to his current success as a radio host and comedian, Promise's journey is inspiration and Spearhead honors the impact he’s made within the communities in Milwaukee. A legends legacy unraveling amongst our very eyes.. Spearhead knows very well, “ITS NOT A THREAT ITS A PROMISE” 🔥🔥🔥🔥

CELL TORRES: DJ CELL

Celso Torres aka “DJ CELL” a Milwaukee Southside Native, was raised in the vibrant neighborhood of Walkers Point on 3rd Street. Growing up in a single-parent household, Dj Cell was fortunate to have the support of his mother and grandmother as they played a crucial role in his upbringing. It was during his middle school years that Dj Cell discovered his profound passion for music, which would shape his life in remarkable ways. Drawing inspiration from his father and his father's musically inclined relatives, Dj Cell love for music blossomed. Additionally, his older brother's admiration for artists like 2PAC and Biggie influenced his musical tastes and broadened his horizons. Driven by his dream of becoming a DJ, Dj Cell embarked on a journey to turn his passion into a reality. Working tirelessly at McDonald's to save up enough money, Dj Cell purchased his first DJ set, fueling his burning passion for music. As he honed his skills, Cell’s presence in the Milwaukee music scene became increasingly prominent. From humble beginnings in front of a barber shop at the age of 13, Dj Cell has since graced the stages of the world's largest music festival. Proud of his Latino heritage, Dj Cell infuses his cultural identity into the sounds he meticulously crafts, blessing the world with his unique musical compositions. Renowned as one of the core DJs in Milwaukee, Dj Cell is a name that often reverberates in conversations about the city's music scene. With his unwavering dedication and remarkable talent, Dj Cell continues to set the vibes and leave an indelible mark on the industry he adores. Spearhead is proud to step into his world, let’s run that Track!!!

BRIANA HIBBS: MADE BY THE LAKE

Briana Hibbs, a native of South Milwaukee, is a talented individual driven by her passion for art and photography. Her journey as a creative entrepreneur began with the encouragement of her mother as a child and the approval of an inspiring art teacher, which instilled a belief in herself and her artistic abilities. Driven by a desire to create with her hands and dissatisfaction with store-bought earrings, Briana embarked on a new venture. She founded and became the creative force behind MADE BY THE LAKE, a unique and captivating line of earrings. With a leap of faith and unwavering self-belief, Briana poured her heart and talent into crafting high-quality earrings that resonated with others. Her creations quickly gained popularity, garnering a growing community of supporters who appreciate the distinctiveness and artistry of her designs. Briana's journey exemplifies the power of following one's passion and believing in oneself, as she turned her love for art into a thriving enterprise that has captured the hearts of many. Through MADE BY THE LAKE, she continues to inspire others with her creativity and commitment to crafting exceptional earrings.

EDUCATORS UNITED

Educators United is a collective of esteemed former educators who played pivotal roles in the life of Spearhead Host, Xavier Mercado. This group comprises Diane Stewart Carrier, a dedicated 3rd grade teacher, Guy Costello, an influential 5th grade teacher, both who taught at Lakeview Elementary, and Joanna Rizzotto, a skilled educator from South Milwaukee High. Throughout Xavier's journey from childhood to adulthood, these educators left an indelible mark on his growth and development. With a sense of nostalgia, Xavier seeks to honor and pay homage to the contributions made by Diane, Guy, and Joanna as educators. Their remarkable achievements are highlighted, showcasing their unique methods of teaching and the profound impact they had on Xavier's educational journey. Going beyond a surface-level appreciation, Xavier delves into the remarkable journey of these educators, exploring their paths to success and the lessons they imparted along the way. This endeavor serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the profound influence they had on Xavier's life. Moreover, it celebrates the lasting friendship and bond that has blossomed between Xavier and his educators. At a time when educators and education are struggling- Spearhead does what it does best, lifts spirits up, shines a light, and shows love to a group that brings goodness to MKE-our educators.

GREG ADAMS: DJ GEE-A

Greg "Gee-A" Adams, a native of Illinois, has emerged as a celebrated DJ and air personality through his popular radio show "Afternoon Drive" on 105.7. Although basketball initially captured his heart, it was a fortuitous event that set him on a path to discover his true love for music. With an innate ability to connect with his audience, Greg has cultivated a loyal following, enchanting listeners with his soulful tunes and captivating energy. Over a decade in the radio industry, Greg has worked for respected stations like V100.7 and 103.7 Kiss FM. It is a remarkable achievement that he can take pride in and feel accomplished about.
 Beyond his role as a radio personality, Greg is the driving force behind the brand "All In," a testament to his unwavering commitment to giving his all in everything he does. Inspired by his mother's influence and their shared Saturday morning music sessions, Greg's love for music runs deep. Milwaukee has become more than just a city to him; it is a place where he has dedicated his life to actively contributing to the community he now calls home. Through his talent, brand, and genuine love for music, Greg "Gee-A" Adams continues to inspire others and leave an enduring impact wherever his journey takes him.

ALEXANDER VIRUET: SKALP X

Alexander Viruet, a Milwaukee south side native, is the creator and founder of Skalp X, a micropigmentation company established in 2017. Before venturing into micropigmentation, Alexander worked as a barber, honing his skills in hair care and styling. With Skalp X, Alexander aims to provide individuals experiencing hair loss with a renewed sense of confidence. Born and raised amidst adversity, Alexander has always been inspired by the art culture of hip hop and graffiti. This creative backdrop has influenced his approach to micropigmentation, allowing him to infuse his work with artistic flair and individuality. Through his passion for helping others and his dedication to his craft, Alexander Viruet has become a respected figure in the field of micropigmentation, continuously and positively impacting the lives of many.
Spearhead is all for SKALP X, LETS GOOOO!!!!!!!