Talk Tacoma

Join Danielle Perkins for a walkaround tour of Stadium High School’s iconic exterior in Tacoma. In this episode:

See the castle-like façade on the bluff above Commencement Bay

Learn how a failed hotel became a school for $1 after a fire

Hear TripAdvisor reviews calling it “American Hogwarts”

Quick “DaniMarie & ChatGPT” history deep-dive

Tacoma events roundup at the end

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In this episode of Talk Tacoma, DaniMarie breaks down how the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026 presents major opportunities—not just for sports fans, but for creatives, educators, wellness providers, small businesses, and especially Black-owned ventures in Tacoma and beyond.

Joined previously by government contracting expert Aaron Groins, we reflect on his powerful insights and explore how local entrepreneurs, podcasters, and content...

In this raw and powerful solo episode of Talk Tacoma, host DaniMarie shares life updates following personal tragedy and displacement—recorded candidly from a park while parenting. She walks through the importance of consistency, how to launch a podcast with minimal gear, and what’s next for the Talk Tacoma platform. Plus, she introduces her new gig-based content service, Content Cutie, and how it ties into expanding local storytell...

In this deeply personal solo episode of Talk Tacoma, host DaniMarie opens up about the recent flood that displaced her family, the grief of losing a loved one, and the emotional toll of a miscarriage—all within the same year. Broadcasting live from an alleyway behind her brother’s home, she shares the heartbreak, the frustration, and ultimately, the unwavering faith that keeps her grounded.

This isn't just a story of devasta...

Welcome back to Talk Tacoma! I’m your host, DaniMarie — a Tacoma native, solo mama, and entrepreneur building legacy through local stories.

In this episode, I sit down with Kayla Schroeder and Natasha, the powerhouse duo behind Pod Works, South Sound’s first 24/7 kid-friendly co-working, play, and event space.

We dive into:

✅ How they created this unique family-centered business

✅ The power of community, resilience, and collaboration

✅ ...

In this inspiring episode of Talk Tacoma, we meet Jennifer Wang, the visionary founder of Aaska Aerial Arts in Spanaway, WA. From humble beginnings as a circus performer in New York to opening her own aerial arts studio in the Pacific Northwest, Jennifer shares how movement, mindset, and community transformed her life—and how she’s paying it forward. Learn how aerial arts offer more than fitness—they build confidence, connection, a...

In this powerful episode of Talk Tacoma, host DaniMarie sits down with visionary filmmaker and educator Syed Jamal, who shares his mission to transform Tacoma into a vibrant hub for cinema and creative storytelling.

Gobranta.com/ceofounder

Originally from Delhi, India, Syed brings a global perspective to local potential. He opens up about why Tacoma's creative economy is ready for a boom, the city’s rich-but-forgotten film histor...

In this bonus episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my very first solo production experience at the Tacoma Beauty and Business Expo—where I was originally scheduled to provide live coverage for the Talk Tacoma podcast. From the excitement of being in the room to the real-life chaos of creating content on the fly, I’m sharing the whims, the woes, and what I learned as a content creator navigating the unexpected.

I’ll walk ...

Looking to expand your network in Tacoma? Join us on this solo episode of Talk Tacoma as we explore 10 key places to find valuable connections and collaboration opportunities. From Meetup groups to the Tacoma Chamber of Commerce, we'll guide you through the local scene, helping you build meaningful relationships and grow your career or business. Discover where to find your community and make a real impact in Tacoma."

Lin...

India's work highlights the critical intersection of arts and mental health, demonstrating how creative expression can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.

Her dedication to culturally relevant support underscores the importance of addressing mental health disparities within diverse communities, offering vital resources and empowerment.

www.livefearlessdancestudio.com

https://talktacoma.com

In this empowering episode, Shantel Alexander, the visionary behind UNIQ LASHES, shares her story of resilience and entrepreneurship. Faced with job loss during the pandemic, Shantel took control of her destiny and built a brand that reflects her vibrant personality and unwavering passion for lashes. Discover how she transformed fear into a thriving business, creating a unique client experience centered on confidence, education, an...

In this episode of Talk Tacoma, Jenessa Johnson shares her transformative journey as a licensed esthetician who turned pandemic challenges into an opportunity to build a thriving beauty business in Tacoma. Emphasizing exceptional quality, attention to detail, and a heartfelt commitment to supporting cancer survivors, she provides valuable insights into overcoming industry stagnation and creating a standout brand. Connect with her o...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Vibe Fitness Founder and COO, DeAndra and Regina, as we delve into their journey of building a business during the pandemic, navigating the dynamics of friendship and business partnership, and successfully running a multi-service fitness studio. Don't miss this engaging discussion!

https://talktacoma.com

https://www.youtube.com/@VibrantlyBE

Vibe Studio: g.co/kgs/9J12gQf

IG:vibe_body_ex...