If there's one thing we learned in 2020, it's that the only constant in life is change. When we let go of our expectations of how things should go and lean into how they are, an entire world can open up to us. And gratitude is our way through it.

This week we chat with Julie Kiefer, founder of the Diabetic Travelers Network about how to travel safely when living with diabetes. We also chat with Karim Israel, frontman and lead vocalist for Arise Roots, about how life as a musician has changed since 2020, and how he ended up starring in a commercial with none other than Sydney's Favorite Rad Human, Kelly Clarkson. Kelly, if you're watching, both Karim and I are BIG FANS.

This Week’s Guests:

Julie Kiefer - Diabetic Travelers Network

Julie Kiefer, who is originally from Strasbourg, France, and is currently based in London, founded the Diabetic Travelers Network (the DTN) in 2019. Julie lives with Type 1 diabetes since 1997. An avid traveler since 2015, she’s visited 28 countries and has lived in Australia, Indonesia and the United Kingdom.

Julie says: “I have a big vision that every diabetic, no matter where they are in the world, will be able to have access to the information, level of care, support and connections they need to travel and live without worry. No more keeping children from school trips. No more stress at the airport, no more ‘I can’t do it’ attitude. A place where we empower each other to go further, better, together.”

The DTN is a social impact business that helps people living with diabetes to see that their diagnosis does not prevent them from living a life of freedom through traveling the world. It provides people living with diabetes with the knowledge, support and connections they need to travel without worry. You can do anything you want in life if you believe that you can. Do not let diabetes stop you!

Karim Israel - Arise Roots

Arise Roots was formed in 2010 with the intent to create a new and unique roots-reggae band which reflects their collective passions. Rising up from the streets of Los Angeles, the band had one goal: create a fresh reggae sound with a modern feel that appeals to all walks of life without compromising the true feel of roots reggae.

The all-star cast of musicians was recruited for their talent and appreciation of classic reggae styles. After a vigorous search, Arise Roots became host to six extremely talented individuals who had already made a name for themselves performing in numerous local reggae bands as well as backing various reggae legends touring through Southern California. With veteran Blake Collie holding steady on drums, Rudy Covarrubias towering on bass, and Todd Johnson adding his trademark mix of keys and harmonies, the band has secured a dynamic rhythm section. Chris Brennen was called upon for his impeccable rhythm guitar and soulful backing vocals while lead guitarist Robert Sotelo adds his unmistakable signature style of riffs and licks. Lead vocalist, Karim Israel coming from a lineage of Jamaican vocalists, was added to the group, providing his raw, sultry flow which pairs perfectly with his powerful lyrics.

In 2010, the band released their first EP titled, Lay Your Guns Down. They later received recognition with the 2013 release of their first full-length album, Moving Forward. Most recently, Arise Roots linked with E.N Young at Imperial Sound Recording Studio to record their biggest album to date Love and War. Since that time the band has released 3 huge singles “Rootsman Town” ft Capleton, “Nice and Slow”, and “Come and Get It” ft Slightly Stoopid and Eric Rachmany of Rebelution. The success of these singles has created a high level of anticipation for their newest album “Pathways” due to drop in the spring of 2020. Arise Roots has recently signed with Culture Management Group and Ineffable Records for the upcoming release.

Throughout their time together, Arise Roots has shared the stage with artists such as Barrington Levy, Steel Pulse, Capleton, Sister Carol, Gramps Morgan, Don Carlos, The Wailers, Luciano, Matisyahu, Midnite, Michael Rose, Gondwana, Cultura Profetica, Big Youth, The Aggrolites, Tristan Palmer, Sammy Dread, Ky-Mani Marley, Ken Boothe, Carlton and The Shoes, Freddie McGregor, The Meditations, Rebelution, Slightly Stoopid, Fortunate Youth, Hirie, Dirty Heads, Tribal Seeds, Iration and many more. Likewise they have also shared stages with hip-hop legends such as KRS One, Public Enemy, Redman and Method Man of the Wu Tang Clan.

As today’s reggae music scene has branched out into multiple sub-genres, Southern California’s Arise Roots has helped keep the ever-evolving sound of reggae music grounded with their fresh take on ROOTS music. The true essence of their music is caught in their live performances, so make sure to keep an eye out for Arise Roots coming to a city near you.

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