Daphne Ortiz is a freelance publicist covering clients in film, TV, sports, lifestyle, fashion, beauty, healthcare, and non-profits. She began her career at a tech PR firm working at some of the industry’s top celebrity PR firms. Ortiz was a member of the publicity team for New Line Cinema film studio and worked on films such as The Notebook and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King that swept the 2003 Academy Awards. In 2007, she decided to pursue a freelance career enabling her to work alongside former colleagues and various companies. Ortiz commutes between Chicago and Los Angeles and has offices in both cities.
Tammi Pickle is VP/ Partner of Elite Connections, a family owned matchmaking agency that helps busy professionals make quality introductions for the past 26 years. Tammi personally meets and matches all of her clients and her BA in Psychology allows her to understand, relate and help people throughout the dating process. Tammi is passionate about her family, helping clients, and giving back to her community.
Ladka Kurzrock Is originally from the Czech Republic, Prague. She’s been an expat for the past 17 years, having lived in Austria-Vienna, India-Mumbai, China-Beijing and now she is based in Australia-Sydney. She is a photographer and her photos have been exhibited in the US and Europe, also publishing on BBC News and several other international galleries, like PH 21 Contemporary Photography Gallery. She loves travelling, scuba diving and hiking. Ladka is married with two children.
Skylar Zerman is a Chicago-Native and junior at Tulane University in New Orleans. She is currently majoring in Psychology with a focus on Forensic Science and minors in Public Health and Jewish Studies.
She is involved in many clubs and organizations including the club she founded to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern Louisiana, showcasing her leadership and commitment to producing high-quality results. Skylar truly cares about the work she is producing and its impact.
Skylar’s future goals include working in law enforcement and/or the FBI as a forensic psychologist.
Martha Chandran-Dickerson was born in India, raised in Europe and East Africa, and resides in America. As a global citizen, issues concerning identity and justice intrigue her. She eschewed the sciences, and embraced the humanities, initially pursuing journalism, and then eventually evolving into an educator. She is a freelance writer and editor, as well as a bridge-builder, serving as an advisor for BRAVE, and a writer for Blindian Project, a community for Black and South Asians. She is also an administrator for faith-based antiracist organization Be the Bridge. Eventually she hopes to pursue her PhD and write a memoir about her migratory life. You can read more of her blog here.
Dr. Erika Montgomery is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 23 years’ experience providing mental health treatment to children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Montgomery earned a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from VCPP and has been in private practice in Oak Park, IL for the past 20 years. She hosts a weekly podcast on iHeart Radio called, "Master Your Mind with Dr. Erika." Dr. Montgomery is married with three children. Instagram @dr.gmontogmery, www.healthyminds.expert, LOAradionetwork.com/dr-erika
Allison Kugel is a veteran entertainment journalist and host of the Allison Interviews podcast, where listeners/viewers can tune in to hear in-depth and spiritually driven conversations with entertainment and pop culture newsmakers. She is also owner and Creative Director of Public Relations Firm, Full Scale Media and creator of the PR 101 curriculum used at worldwide startup hub, General Assembly. Watch on YouTube and listen at Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow Allison Kugel on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonInterviews.com.
Alexis Brooke Ross is a passionate foodie who loves to enjoy the finer things in life at a reasonable price. This modern mom with two young kids in tow is always on the go. Also known as “Minister of Culture,” she is committed to making staff feel special and appreciated with team inspiring events. Alexis began her career in entertainment working for notable clients such as Miramax Films, and Walt Disney Company. Alexis was awarded an Emmy as Associate Producer for Best Classical Music Program. Alexis received her BA degree in Pre-Law / Law & Society from University of California Santa Barbara.
Lauren Brynjelsen is the founder of One Life Kitchen. While going back to school to further her education in the Nutrition and Health Coaching field, Lauren dreamed of what it would be like to combine her knowledge of nutrition with her passion for cooking, fitness and entertaining. Residing in Barrington, IL, her mission is to provide an atmosphere where each guest finds nourishment for the body, mind and soul. One Life Kitchen represents the nourishing of Lauren’s favorite things. It is a place where guests come to gather together to learn, feast and share.