I would like readers to know that 40% of the youth that we serve identify as LGBTQ+. This statistic alone paints a picture, when 15-20% of young adults in the US identify as LGBTQ+. The disproportionate representation of queer youth that walk through our doors shows that it is still not always safe to be one's full self. "Coming out" can lead to being disowned and kicked out. LGBTQ+ youth face higher risks around substance use, sexual health, and suicide. At HomePlate, we don't ask people to erase or minimize themselves to receive the care and safety they deserve.
Read MoreKuli Kuli is a superfood company that sources unique ingredients like moringa and baobab from small farmers and sells them in the form of smoothie powders, gummies and lattes across the US. My absolute favorite part of my job is getting to travel to the small farming communities that Kuli Kuli sources from and understand the impact that we’re having.
Read MoreSeeing that the iconic rainbow crosswalks that run across Cedar Springs in the Oak Lawn neighborhood [ the gayborhood 🌈 ] of Dallas may soon be returned to boring old black & white reminded me to post these images from a Toyota campaign I shot back in 2024. 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ The importance of queer representation cannot be overstated.
Read MoreMy first job was at 13 walking soybean fields and detasseling corn in Iowa farmland. I'd tell my younger self that the hard work and challenges I learned then would form a foundation that gave me resilience and an appreciation for the distance you can go with determination and grit. I've had the opportunity to lead brands, teams, businesses and boards across the globe.
Read MoreKicking off another week by highlighting someone I fiercely admire, Denny Post. Back in August I flew out to Orlando while Denny was scheduled to be in town for meetings. Bonus that it ended up being a reunion of sorts with several women I met at WFF way back in 2012 when I first started photographing conferences. Stories about the weekend festivites soon but for now a little more about Denny…
Read MoreDuring Dallas Pride Month, my camera and I got to spend some time at Ampelos Wines. A queer owned space + summer bubbles…count me in. 🥂 “We hope to embrace all who venture into our shop, providing a hospitable and inclusive space for shoppers of every sect of wine drinking.”
Read MoreWhen I travel or move to a new neighborhood one of the first things I do is set out on a quest to find my “spots”. The cozy restaurants and bars with good atmosphere that feel like a hug. Fates Bread & Bottle Co in Portland, OR is just that and let me tell you about the heart that is poured into this place. I can’t wait for you to meet…
Read MoreFast forward six years, and who would have imagined that I would find myself living right here in Portland, still sporting that same coat? I was thrilled when the crew at Bridge & Burn reached out and asked me to document their flagship store. On an overcast afternoon, I made my way there and got to spend some quality time with the store's managers.
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