SpearHead Conversations Podcast

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...

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 shap...

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 cre...

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 a...

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, pe...

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,...

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 eviden...

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 arti...

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...

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...

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, sh...

On this episode, host Xavier Mercado welcomes Huey V, a rising recording artist signed to Warehouse Music Group/ROCNATION. From Milwaukee’s northside to the national stage, Huey V’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and hard work. Inspired by legends like Tupac, he began with poetry before transitioning to music, drawing influence from Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar. Despite challenges,...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with acclaimed videographer TeeglazedIt, whose journey from Milwaukee to Los Angeles is a testament to hard work, creativity, and perseverance. Raised by a single mother, TeeglazedIt developed a strong work ethic early on, juggling multiple jobs as a teen. His passion for filmmaking began with skate videos but took off betwe...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado talks with Anthony Buchanan, known as Cardiac the Pulse, about his journey, music, and personal growth. Raised by his grandparents in Milwaukee, he found inspiration in a wide range of artists, from The Stylistics to Hootie & the Blowfish. Therapy helped him embrace authenticity, shaping both his life and music. Anthony’s artistic...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Koby Krueger, a rising MMA fighter from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Training under the renowned Anthony Pettis camp, Koby is determined to make his mark in the competitive world of Mixed Martial Arts. Koby shares his journey growing up on Milwaukee’s south side, overcoming challenges as the son of a single mother. Initially i...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Mazen Muna, a prominent Milwaukee entrepreneur, to discuss his journey, business ventures, and community impact. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Mazen displayed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. After navigating multiple majors at UW-Milwaukee while working full-time, he built a career rooted in resilience, adap...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Adam Skiff, the visionary founder of SNR Flooring. With nearly 20 years of experience, Adam has built one of southeastern Wisconsin’s most respected flooring companies by overcoming challenges like ADHD and boldly rejecting the traditional 9-to-5 grind to chase his entrepreneurial dreams.   Adam’s journey began with ven...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews Ryan Schultz, founder of Underdog Productions and Eros Films, as he shares his journey from Racine, Wisconsin, to becoming a respected creative in video production. Ryan launched Underdog Productions in 2021, inspired by personal experiences of feeling underestimated. In 2022, he expanded with Eros Films, a cinematic weddin...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews multifaceted artist and actor Protegé, whose journey through music, acting, and modeling highlights the power of creative expression and personal growth. Raised in Milwaukee, Protégé found solace in music from an early age, using songwriting and beat-making as a form of therapy to navigate life’s challenges.   Protegé share...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews legendary battle rapper Charlie Clips, exploring his rise to fame, challenges, and lasting impact on the industry. Clips reflects on transformative moments, including a pivotal underground battle that tested his adaptability and led to legendary introduction to a field he’s now dominated. Known as one of the greatest in his...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews DJ GEMINI GILLY, one of the official DJ’s for the Milwaukee Bucks and a rising star in the local music scene. GILLY shares her journey of breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience, authenticity, and trusting the process. She recounts pivotal moments, such as learning t...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado talks with entrepreneur Nimesh Ruparel, known as “Nemo,” about his inspiring journey. Nimesh shares his pivotal role in Antetokounbros, home of a lifestyle brand created in partnership with the Antetokounmpo family, where he helped design the store and shape its merchandise strategy with a focus on community and legacy. He reflects on...

In this heartfelt episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado sits down with Emily Landers, founder of A Little Something, A Lot of Love. A mother of three and former teacher, Emily shares how her own miscarriage at 15 weeks inspired her mission to support families experiencing pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and stillbirth. Emily’s “joy bombs”—care packages filled with items like gemston...

In this episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado interviews Joshua Jones, founder of Broke Life, about his journey from record-breaking athlete to successful entrepreneur. Joshua shares stories from his high school days in Fresno, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track, earning All-City honors and setting records that still stand today. Joshua reflects on the challenge...

In this inspirational and impactful episode of Spearhead Conversations, host Xavier Mercado welcomes Melany Viruet, the creative mind behind Childlike Faith, a brand inspired by her Christian faith. Growing up in a bilingual, Puerto Rican household in Milwaukee, Melany’s journey is one of resilience and purpose, shaped by her family’s support and strong values. Melany describes facing the challeng...