Telling Our Story: The Narrative of Baltimore and the Power to Shape it
September 16, 2025 Baltimore’s story unfolded through many voices at MIX.
MIX (Monthly Innovation eXchange) is a monthly gathering designed to spark collaboration, share ideas, and strengthen our innovation community. Neighbors from startups, industry professionals, nonprofits, academia, government, creatives, entrepreneurs, researchers, civic leaders, and ecosystem partners come together to explore a rotating theme through lightning talks, small-group conversations, and informal networking. Whether you're launching a new venture, driving scientific discovery, or building community infrastructure, MIX is a space to connect, learn, and grow - together.
Alana Davis reminded us that everyone is a storyteller, and that the magic lies not only in outcomes but in the act of gathering - to see Baltimore as wondrous, vibrant, gritty, invigorating, and friendly.
Nicole King urged us to show up and listen with care, recognizing that harm can come even from good intentions, and that real progress begins when we honor people and the land they call home.
Chris Riehl carried forward the theme of connection, sharing how Baltimore can define itself on its own terms - weaving visitors’ stories with our own while never forgetting that residents’ needs must come first.
Whitney Frazier highlighted the power of art as both organizing and storytelling, bringing forward projects that reclaim space and honor the voices of Black women in Baltimore’s history.
Lakey Boyd challenged us to see Baltimore as bold and globally competitive, a place of reinvention and resilience, ready to solve tomorrow’s problems today with billions in new investment.
And Crystal Harden-Lindsey reminded us of our collective responsibility: to listen to youth, to choose our words carefully, and to never give upon ourselves or our communities.
From the audience, several themes rang out clearly: we all love Baltimore. We believe this city can become one that truly uplifts its youth. We must continue to honor and revere our history. We see opportunities for creatives to expand across boundaries. And perhaps most importantly, we recognize the need to care for the people who care for this city.
Taken together, the night was more than just a storytelling event- it was a testament to Baltimore’s heart, resilience, and imagination. MIX brought forward voices that challenged and inspired us, and in doing so reminded us that Baltimore’s story is still being written, and we all have a role in shaping its next chapter.
September Speakers Included:
Alanah Davis - Chief Storyteller, City of Baltimore
Nicole King - Professor of American Studies, UMBC
Chris Riehl - Owner, Rent-a-tour
Whitney Frazier - Creative Director, WGF Studio
Lakey Boyd - Chief Economic Officer, Greater Baltimore Committee
Crystal Harden-Lindsey - Vice President of Community Impact, Baltimore Community Foundation
