SpearHead Conversations Podcast

In this episode, artist Deena Rae Del La Garza joins host Xavier Mercado to share her creative journey, the evolution of her voice, and the importance of community. Originally from Elk Grove, Illinois, Deena recalls how art eclipsed all other childhood interests. Although she studied at the Pacific Northwest College of Art, her path included detours through massage therapy, yoga, and creative gigs that shaped her resilience and exp...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Julia Graves, a talented vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and Milwaukee native. Growing up in a musical family, Julia was surrounded by creativity from an early age. She developed her skills on saxophone and guitar and found her voice as a singer and songwriter, carving her path in a challenging industry.

Julia shares the personal experiences that shape ...

Kaprice Maxwell’s journey as an artist is a powerful testament to talent, resilience, and self-discovery. Born and raised in Milwaukee, she was surrounded by music from an early age, even as the only musician in her family. Leading church choirs at just seven years old and participating in orchestra, choir, dance, and sports helped shape her creative drive.

Influenced by artists like Missy Elliott, Anita...

Jesse Booker’s journey is a powerful example of how positivity, authenticity, and community involvement can create lasting impact. Known as the “Golden Voice of Racine,” Jesse grew up as an only child, naturally drawn to building genuine relationships across diverse groups, a trait that continues to shape his personal and professional life.

After serving in the military to fund his education, Jesse atten...

On this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado welcomes Joseph “Silke Dot Jose” Wilke a community leader, musician, educator, and passionate advocate for Milwaukee’s youth. Born and raised in Sheboygan, Joseph was shaped by his early experiences and the guidance of his single mother and grandmother, excelling in both academics and athletics.

Joseph’s career began as a middle school gym teacher in Milwaukee, but his...

In this powerful episode, Xavier Mercado sits down with Andres Zapata, Founder of GEMBA LLC. and associate pastor at his church in the Mukwonago area. Inspiration blooms as both sit in for a heartfelt conversation on perseverance, purpose, and community impact. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Andres opens up about overcoming a difficult childhood and finding direction through faith, resilience, and hard work.

He shares his profession...

Jeffrey McAlister Jr.‘s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. Raised in Beloit, Wisconsin, he was inspired by his father’s style and developed a love for art, cooking, and fashion. What began as childhood interests and college modeling experiences evolved into a self-made career as a stylist, event producer, and community leader.

He founded FashionSense, a brand focused on helping others express their style ...

In this episode, Xavier Mercado sits down with Kewl Tay, the creative mind behind Juice Talk TV and the Visionary clothing line. Tay shares how growing up in Milwaukee, surrounded by his mother’s taverns and a hardworking family, shaped his drive and business mindset. Music was a constant in his life, influencing his ambitions from an early age.

Tay began as a musician, recording with limited resources a...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Jez Hernandez, founder of Sweet Shop 28 and Mini Stacked MKE. Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, and raised in California and Wisconsin, Jez shares her inspiring journey of immigrating to the U.S. and finding her path as an entrepreneur.

Her love for fashion, influenced by her mother’s work as a clothing vendor, led her to ...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, Xavier Mercado sits down with Milwaukee’s own Cre$po, a rising reggaeton artist whose sound is helping shape the city’s Latin urban music scene. From his early beginnings on Milwaukee’s south side to earning spots on major stages, Cre$po’s journey reflects resilience, talent, and a deep connection to his roots.

He opens up about the experiences that shaped him, growing up in a two-parent ...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Milwaukee artist and producer Richie P. Goldchain to explore his journey, creative process, and the experiences that have shaped his career.

Richie discusses how his Southern roots and Milwaukee upbringing influenced both his personal identity and musical style. From digging through his father’s record collection to creating music with friends in high sc...

In this inspiring episode, Xavier Mercado sits down with Milwaukee creative and community leader Ray Nitti. Ray shares his journey from emerging artist to a powerful force uplifting both Milwaukee and his native Virgin Islands. He opens up about his evolving music career and the realization that the perfect time to act is always “now.”

Ray highlights his work with the Creative Corridor, where he and a pa...

Brian C. Wilson Jr. joins Spearhead Conversations for an inspiring episode that charts his powerful transformation from facing adversity to leading with purpose as a successful entrepreneur and changemaker.

As the founder of Seven Generation Contractors LLC, the only American Indian-owned commercial, residential, and military concrete company in Wisconsin. Brian shares how his Indigenous roots, personal struggles, and commitment to...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Benny T, the visionary behind SayWerd, a Milwaukee-based vintage shop that brings nostalgia to life through iconic pieces from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s. Benny shares how his love for community and culture inspired the creation of a space where memories are rekindled through fashion.

Raised in a business-minded family, Benny’s entrepreneurial spirit show...

In this energetic Episode of Spearhead Conversations, Xavier Mercado interviews Meg Strobel, a dynamic Milwaukee-based photographer. Growing up in Menasha, Wisconsin, she was drawn to the arts but initially saw them as an unlikely career path. Over time, her passion for photography took center stage, leading her to develop a distinctive style of experimental portraiture.

Meg’s dedication is evident in both her formal education and ...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Micah Emrich, a Milwaukee-based vocalist known for his early 2000s Pop-Soul inspired sound. Balancing a full-time music career with another job, Micah’s journey is marked by dedication and resilience. Mastering instruments  like the cello, guitar, and drums, gives proof to his fueling passion for music.

Inspired by artists like Justin Bieber and Justin T...

On this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews Keylime, a phenomenal musical producer who has made Milwaukee’s music scene his home. Born in Annapolis, Maryland, he began producing as a teenager using GarageBand, with his first song, Phone Calls, serving as a tribute to a late friend. Over time, he developed a versatile style, blending genres.

Moving to Milwaukee was a pivotal...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado welcomes Zach Petersen, founder of ZP Construction, to share his journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in the construction industry. Growing up in Racine, Wisconsin, Zach took on responsibility early, developing the resilience and work ethic that would shape his success.

What started as a hobby soon became a career, with Zach laying the foundation for ZP Constr...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado speaks with Donna Gallardo, founder of SheWolf MKE, a women’s boxing gym on Milwaukee’s south side. A pioneer in the sport, Donna’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and breaking barriers.

Raised in Milwaukee, Donna discovered boxing at 12, secretly competing in amateur fights. After earning a degree in electrical engineering, she transitioned from athlete to ment...