Que Bola Podcast

Miami electronic music pioneer Danny Daze joins the Que Bola Podcast for one of the deepest conversations yet about underground music culture, creativity, risk-taking, and the future of artistic expression. In this episode, Danny breaks down: the untold story of Miami bass and electronic music culture growing up surrounded by freestyle, breakdancing, and underground scenes his journey from house arrest to global touring artist why "the underground" no longer exists the reality of DJ ego and gatekeeping AI's impact on music building community through Omnidisc and why immersive real-world experiences matter more than ever. The conversation also dives into: creative obsession, artistic identity, nightlife culture, entrepreneurship, venue ownership, and preserving authentic human connection in the algorithm era. This is more than a music interview — it's a conversation about culture itself.

In this episode of the Que Bola podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented filmmaker and music video director, Mr. Michael Garcia. We kicked off the conversation with a light-hearted exchange about the podcast setup, particularly the absence of headphones, which Michael appreciated as it allowed for a more personal connection during our chat. Michael shared his philosophy on creativity, emphasizing the importance of not taking oneself too seriously as an artist. He believes that maintaining a sense of fun and chaos is essential to preserving one's edge in the creative field. We delved into his early days as a filmmaker, discussing the struggles of starting out broke and hustling to find clients. Michael recounted how his passion for film was ignited by childhood memories, such as watching Michael Jackson's "Thriller" and experiencing the cinematic magic of "Purple Rain." As we explored his journey, Michael revealed the lengths he went to in order to create his projects, including a clever yet risky strategy of buying and returning cameras to complete his work. He recounted his early experiences shooting music videos for local artists, often losing money in the process but driven by a blind belief in his potential to succeed. We discussed the significance of the relationships and experiences he gained through filmmaking, highlighting how the memories made during projects often outweigh the final product itself. Michael shared stories of his travels to various countries for shoots, emphasizing the unique experiences and friendships he formed along the way. Transitioning into the technical aspects of filmmaking, Michael explained how he initially got his start as a production assistant, learning from industry veterans while honing his craft. He recounted a pivotal moment when he was offered the chance to direct a music video for Kodak Black, which unexpectedly skyrocketed his career. The success of that video opened doors to numerous opportunities, leading to collaborations with major artists and record labels. We also touched on the evolving landscape of music videos and the impact of platforms like TikTok on the industry. Michael expressed his thoughts on the importance of making artists look cool and the challenges of adapting to new trends in content consumption. As our conversation progressed, we explored the differences between directing music videos, documentaries, and feature films. Michael emphasized the importance of storytelling and character development in film, contrasting it with the more visual and stylistic approach of music videos. Throughout the episode, Michael's passion for filmmaking and storytelling shone through, as he shared insights into the creative process, the business side of the industry, and the ever-changing dynamics of content creation. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers, music video directors, and anyone interested in the art of storytelling through visual media.

In this episode of the Que Bola podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Virginia Otazo, a talented food journalist currently making waves at The Infatuation, one of the most respected food publications in South Florida. We kicked off the conversation by expressing gratitude for the support the podcast has received, emphasizing that this endeavor is driven by passion rather than profit. Virginia shared her journey into the world of food journalism, which began with her background in creative writing. Despite her parents' skepticism about her career choice, she followed her passion and found herself immersed in the restaurant industry. After moving to Washington, D.C., for love, she started working in restaurants, quickly rising through the ranks due to her dedication and love for the craft. Her experiences in various roles, from server to general manager, shaped her understanding of the restaurant business and ultimately led her to her current position at The Infatuation. We delved into the unique approach that The Infatuation takes towards food journalism, highlighting their commitment to honesty and integrity. Virginia explained how they dine anonymously, never accepting freebies or comps, ensuring that their reviews are genuine and trustworthy. This authenticity resonates with readers, as they know they can rely on The Infatuation for honest recommendations. As we explored the cultural significance of food in South Florida, Virginia shared her insights on how food tells stories, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the community. We discussed the evolution of Cuban-American cuisine and how it has been shaped by the diaspora, with Virginia drawing parallels between her own experiences and the dishes she encounters. The conversation also touched on the impact of social media on the restaurant industry. Virginia emphasized the importance of genuine connections and how she uses social media to discover new culinary experiences through the eyes of chefs and cooks, rather than just relying on glossy marketing. Throughout the episode, we examined the concept of value in dining experiences, discussing how the atmosphere, service, and overall experience contribute to the worth of a meal. Virginia shared her personal approach to evaluating value, turning it into a fun game with friends to gauge expectations against the final bill. This episode is a deep dive into the world of food journalism, the cultural tapestry of South Florida, and the stories that food tells. Virginia's passion for her craft and her commitment to authenticity shine through, making this conversation not only informative but also inspiring for anyone interested in the culinary arts. Tune in to hear more about Virginia's journey, her insights on the food scene, and the importance of storytelling in food journalism.

In this episode of Que Bola, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Celia Almeida, the newly appointed editor of the cultural and arts division at the Miami New Times. Celia has been a significant force in shaping Miami's arts coverage, and her journey in journalism is nothing short of inspiring. We kicked off the conversation by exploring Celia's early passion for writing and music, which was ignited during her teenage years while working at a bookstore. She shared how her love for music magazines like Rolling Stone and Mojo fueled her desire to write about music, even though she initially thought it was just a pipe dream. Celia's journey began with freelancing for the New Times in 2016, where she took on various roles, eventually returning as the arts editor at the start of this year. Celia explained her motivation for returning to the New Times, emphasizing the importance of covering the cultural heartbeat of Miami. We discussed how her role has evolved to encompass a broader cultural perspective, moving beyond just arts and music to include topics like sex, dating, and the unique quirks of Miami life. She expressed her excitement about documenting the city's changing landscape, especially in light of gentrification and the challenges faced by local communities. As we delved deeper into the conversation, Celia shared her experiences interviewing both mainstream and underground artists. She highlighted the challenges of connecting with established artists, who often have walls up due to their fame, compared to the more open and trusting nature of emerging artists. We also touched on the vibrant yet often overlooked drag scene in Miami, which Celia believes deserves more recognition. Throughout our discussion, we reflected on the cultural richness of Miami and the misconceptions that often arise from outsiders who claim the city lacks culture. Celia passionately defended Miami's diverse cultural landscape, sharing her mission to document and uplift the stories that often go unheard. We wrapped up the episode by discussing the current state of live music venues in Miami, the impact of COVID-19 on the local scene, and the importance of creating spaces for various artistic expressions. Celia's insights into the evolving cultural landscape of Miami were both enlightening and thought-provoking, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the arts and culture of our vibrant city. Join us for this engaging conversation as we explore the heartbeat of Miami through the eyes of a dedicated journalist and cultural advocate.

In this episode of Que Bola, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Abel Sanchez, also known as Miami Stadium, a passionate historian and cultural resource dedicated to preserving the rich history and culture of South Florida. Abel's journey began in 2016 when he created an Instagram page to share his love for Miami's historic sports venues, which has since evolved into a thriving platform with nearly 70,000 followers. We kicked off our conversation by discussing the current state of Miami as we emerge from the pandemic. Abel shared his insights on the city's rhythm and pulse, noting the ongoing construction and the influx of international money that seems to cater more to expats than to locals. We explored the idea that Miami has always been a destination for tourists, and how this has shaped the city's identity over the years. As a historian, Abel emphasized the importance of understanding Miami's past, including its cultural influences and the stories that often go untold. We delved into the significance of local institutions and venues, like the Orange Bowl and Churchill's, which have played a vital role in shaping the community's cultural landscape. Abel expressed his concern about the loss of these historical sites to development, highlighting the need for balance between progress and preservation. Throughout our discussion, Abel shared personal anecdotes about his journey, including the challenges he faced in building his brand and the moments that made him realize he was onto something special. He emphasized the importance of consistency and the power of showing up, even when the rewards aren't immediately visible. We also touched on the influence of Miami's culture on other cities, noting how the city is now a source of inspiration rather than just a place that gets overshadowed by larger metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles. Abel's passion for history and culture shines through in his work, and he aims to educate and inspire the next generation by sharing the stories that define our community. In closing, this episode is a celebration of Miami's unique identity, the importance of preserving its history, and the power of creativity and consistency in the journey of a creative entrepreneur. Join us for an engaging conversation that blends history, culture, and originality, and get inspired to find your own path to success.

In this episode of Que Bola, I had the pleasure of speaking with Caiti Waks, a passionate nonprofit organizer dedicated to ocean conservation through her organization, Debris Free Oceans. Our conversation delved into the pressing issue of waste management and the urgent need for a shift towards a zero-waste lifestyle, particularly in Miami-Dade County. We kicked off the episode by discussing Caiti's background and what inspired her to dedicate her life to environmental advocacy. Growing up in South Florida, she developed a deep love for the ocean, which was further solidified by a transformative experience in Nicaragua, where she witnessed the harsh realities of waste management in impoverished communities. This eye-opening moment propelled her to take action, leading her to establish environmental initiatives during her high school years and eventually pursue a career focused on ocean conservation. Caiti explained the concept of zero waste, emphasizing its aspirational nature and the importance of fostering a circular economy. We explored the challenges of implementing sustainable practices in a consumer-driven society, where single-use plastics dominate. Caiti shared her optimism about the incremental changes happening in Miami, highlighting the growing awareness and demand for sustainability among consumers and businesses alike. Throughout our discussion, we tackled the complexities of engaging diverse communities in environmental efforts, particularly those facing economic hardships. Caiti stressed the need for inclusivity in the conversation around sustainability, ensuring that all voices are heard and that solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of different neighborhoods. We also touched on the innovative programs Debris Free Oceans is spearheading, such as the Zero Waste Miami initiative, which aims to unite businesses, nonprofits, and government entities to collaborate on waste reduction strategies. Caiti shared insights into their mentorship program for college students interested in ocean conservation and the various community events they host to raise awareness and foster connections among like-minded individuals. As we wrapped up the episode, Caiti's passion for her work was palpable, and her belief in the power of collective action left me feeling hopeful about the future of our oceans and the environment. This conversation not only highlighted the importance of individual responsibility in combating waste but also showcased the potential for community-driven solutions to create meaningful change. Join us for this inspiring episode as we explore the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship with Caiti Waks from Debris Free Oceans.

In this episode of Que Bola, I had the pleasure of chatting with the hilarious Brittany Brave, a rising star in the comedy scene, originally from South Florida and now making waves in NYC. We kicked things off with some light banter about sports jerseys and the cultural phenomenon surrounding Taylor Swift, where Brittany shared her candid thoughts on pop culture and fandoms. As we delved deeper, Brittany opened up about her journey into stand-up comedy, which was sparked by her experiences as a domestic violence survivor. She discussed how her painful past became a source of material that resonated with audiences, leading her to embrace her comedic voice. We also touched on the challenges of navigating the Miami comedy scene, which she described as cliquish and immature compared to the more expansive New York environment. Brittany shared her insights on the importance of authenticity in comedy, emphasizing the need to stay true to oneself despite external pressures. We explored the dynamics of kindness versus niceness in relationships and the significance of constructive criticism among friends and peers. Towards the end of our conversation, Brittany reflected on her recent experiences performing in front of industry professionals, discussing the inevitable ups and downs of a comedian's journey. She highlighted the importance of resilience and self-acceptance, reminding us that true love for one's craft means showing up even when things get tough. This episode is packed with laughter, raw honesty, and valuable lessons for anyone in the creative field. Join us as we celebrate Brittany's achievements and the vibrant world of comedy!

In this episode of the Que Bola podcast, I had the opportunity to interview several creative entrepreneurs and artists at Trina's second annual Rockstar Festival. The guests included Maiyia The Don, Bri Biase, Joddy Catalan, Nia Amber, Pretty Porcelain, Jessica Dime, 50 Jitt Steppa, Omni Clutch and Saint Riche. Each guest shared their unique journey in the entertainment industry, highlighting their challenges, successes, and aspirations. Maiyia The Donn expressed her excitement about performing at the festival, while Bri Biase shared her experience of overcoming challenges as a female artist in a male-dominated industry. Joddy Catalan discussed her transition from Colombia to the US and her passion for music. Nia Amber emphasized the importance of self-confidence and empowerment in the industry. Pretty Porcelain shared her journey of leaving her comfort zone to pursue her dreams in Miami. Jessica Dime, a Memphis native, talked about her entrepreneurial journey and the importance of authenticity in the music industry. 50 Jit Steppa discussed his music production process and the challenges of stepping out of his comfort zone. Omni Clutch shared his experience of promoting his music and connecting with his audience. Overall, the episode showcased the diverse experiences and talents of these creative entrepreneurs, highlighting their resilience, determination, and passion for their craft. Each guest brought a unique perspective to the podcast, inspiring listeners to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles in the creative industry.