your story

At Made Equal, we believe that every person, whether a CEO of a Fortune 500 company or a barista at a local coffee shop, has a unique story worth sharing. Our platform is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where individuals from all walks of life can openly share their experiences, personal struggles, or forms of adversity. By sharing your story, you not only contribute to a movement of understanding and empathy but also inspire others who may be facing similar challenges. We invite you to share your story with us and be featured on our website, helping us create a community where everyone’s journey is valued and heard.

Novemeber 11, 2024

Beyond the Ride: Mike Goldstein's Journey with Entrepreneurship and Making His Own Way

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mike Goldstein, a lifelong Tallahassee native and the driving force behind Capital City Pedicabs. Mike shares his story of growing up on Tallahassee's north side, navigating challenges as part of a small Jewish community, and dealing with a life-altering genetic disorder. Influenced by his father’s resilience and entrepreneurship, Mike has taken the family business to new heights, transforming it into a cornerstone of community culture. Hear about the early days of the pedicab venture, the unforgettable memories along the way, and Mike’s passion for connecting people and building relationships. From his love of karaoke to his advice for other local business owners, Mike’s story is one of perseverance, connection, and leaving a legacy beyond the wheels of his pedicab.
October 7, 2024

Embracing Authenticity: Mason Morris on Disability Advocacy & Resiliency

In this powerful interview, Mason Morris shares her journey of overcoming challenges and advocating for disability rights and mental health awareness. From growing up in a small town to navigating life with spina bifida and amputation, Mason's story is one of resilience, community, and finding purpose. Through her advocacy work, Mason inspires others to embrace their authenticity, use their voice for change, and live boldly. Tune in to hear her insights on advocacy, family, and living life with purpose.
APRIL 2024

Kacy's Story

An inspiring journey of a man who rose from program director to CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Bend, serving thousands of children in his community. Reflecting on his father's struggles with addiction after serving in Vietnam, Kacy credits an unlikely mentor for shaping him into the compassionate leader he is today.
January 2024

Shawn's Story

A community leader and novelist shares his experience of being raised in a trailer amidst the frigid New York winters. Today, Shawn leads as President/CEO of the Southern Scholarship Foundation, providing rent-free housing and support for students pursuing higher education.
October 2023

Justin's Story

A community advocate and nonprofit storyteller shares the profound impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on his mental health. Today, Justin works as Membership and Communications Coordinator at United Partners for Human Services, where he actively helps many throughout the community.
July 2023

Jonathan's Story

A DJ and firefighter from Haiti opens up about growing up as a Jehovah's Witness and maintaining his faith during hard times. Today, Jonathan is the proud owner of Jon J Entertainment and bravely serves the Tallahassee community as a member of the Tallahassee Fire Department.
July 2023

Taylor Ann's Story

A nurse practitioner and Tallahassee native opens up about owning her anxiety and ADHD and changing the perception into a positive. Today, Taylor Ann is COO, Co-Owner, and Founder of Aquarian Clinic, Aquarian Clinic Jacksonville and CaliFlo Yoga Collective.
June 2023

Andy's Story

A PR professional and LGBTQ+ advocate shares his experience of finding support after coming out to his family. Today, Andy gives back to the community by supporting LGBTQ+ causes and serving on the board of Big Bend Cares.
June 2023

Dan's Story

A military veteran, painter, and artist talks about the cathartic feeling of coming out for the first time and not being scared to do so. Today, Dan continues to produce his art locally in Tallahassee, FL, hoping that it can inspire people to be a part of bigger conversations happening around them.
May 2023

Barby's Story

A first-generation Cuban American college graduate talks about operating a business in a white male-dominated field and the importance of community in the face of adversity. Today, Barby owns RedEye Coffee in Tallahassee, FL, and believes putting people before profits is what RedEye does best.
May 2023

Brian's Story

A military veteran and social entrepreneur reflects on a period of homelessness and how it influenced him to start his own multimedia marketing agency. Today, Brian is the President and CEO of B-EZ Graphix and leads a talented team of individuals, believing every brand has a story.
April 2023

Josh's Story

A teacher, small business owner, and community advocate gives advice on how to make a difference in the world of activism. Today, Josh continues to fight for the things that matter most and currently serves as President/CEO of the 621 Gallery, a Tallahassee local arts nonprofit.
April 2023

Valencia's Story

A Tallahassee woman who was raised by a single mother talks about discovering her own self-worth after being emotionally “bullied” by a family member growing up.
April 2023

Jimmy's Story

A former college athlete talks about how one tragic incident taught him to cherish every moment life has to offer. Today, Jimmy is making a difference in the Tallahassee community through his love of art, sneakers, and supporting the youth.
March 2023

Rachel's Story

A Tallahassee woman talks about her experience making the fashion industry more inclusive and the importance of the "grind."
March 2023

Whiteney's Story

A Tallahassee woman bullied during her childhood for having different interests is now embracing her “weirdness” and helping the youth in our community embrace the weird and follow their passions.
March 2023

Brianna's Story

A Tallahassee woman who was sexually assaulted has started a self-defense company (BriSafe) that is helping women locally, nationally, and worldwide.
March 2023

Michaela's Story

Everyone experiences adversity at some point in life. It comes upon you in an unfamiliar and unexpected manner. But although it's always stressful and chaotic at first, trouble is how we learn and grow. As the saying goes, what does not kill you makes you stronger. After being bullied as a child, Michaela developed a resiliency that made her into the person she is today. Watch Michaela's story on how she dealt with adversity in and out of school.
March 2023

Treshaun's story

From humble beginnings to becoming a prolific student-athlete at FSU, listen to Treshaun's story on how he overcame adversity on and off the field.
September 2022

Chirag's Story

COLLECTIONS CRAFTED TO SUPPORT LOCAL AND GLOBAL CAUSES