Golden Hour - North Coast Harbor 2025

#GoldenHourCLE – July Edition North Coast Harbor | Downtown Cleveland

Schedule 2:00 PM – Doors Open 2:30 PM – Golden Hour TECHTALKs 5:00 PM – Food & Drink Service 5:30 PM – First Music Feature - Moises Borges 7:30 PM – Sunset Feature - GUMBO DANCE PARTY 9:30 PM – Twilight DJ Set - HAPPY ENDINGS w/ Nic Nacc & DJ ESO

Email omg@thatsgreyt.com to inquire about participating. All Golden Hour events are rain or shine.

Location: North Coast Harbor

North Coast Harbor is a scenic waterfront district in downtown Cleveland, offering stunning views of Lake Erie and a unique blend of cultural landmarks and green space. It’s home to destinations like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center, anchored by Voinovich Bicentennial Park—an ideal setting for music, conversation, and celebration.

Lineup Update Mannie Fresh will no longer be performing at Golden Hour on July 25 due to a scheduling conflict—this shift gave us the perfect chance to go all in on Cleveland’s finest. We’re turning the spotlight on a fully local lineup featuring the absolute best of the city’s homegrown DJ scene. Same energy. Same mission. All love.

GUMBO DANCE PARTY Sunset - 7:30 PM

Gumbo Dance Party is a high-energy celebration of global Black music and community, blending the sounds of Afrobeat, Amapiano, R&B, Hip-Hop, Dancehall, House, and more into one unforgettable night of movement and joy. Born in Cleveland and rooted in diaspora rhythms, Gumbo isn’t just a party—it’s a cultural experience.

Curated by DJ Walk, Gumbo features a rotating crew, creatives, and culture-makers, each event serves up a flavorful mix of genres and good vibes that bring people together across backgrounds. From packed dance floors to curated art activations, Gumbo creates space for release, connection, and radical joy. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, Gumbo invites you to come as you are and leave sweatier, freer, and more connected than when you arrived.

HAPPY ENDINGS Twilight - 9:30 PM

A party where you can be you. Curated by Nic Nacc and DJ ESO, HAPPY ENDINGS is a high-vibe, zero-judgment zone for the bold, the stylish, the free, and the unapologetically real. No rules. No egos. Just energy. The sounds are unpredictable, the crowd is electric, and the dance floor doesn’t quit. It’s not just a party—it’s a space to let go, reconnect, and close the night the right way. @HappyEndingsWorld

Moises Borges Daylight - First 6:00 PM

Moises Borges Cleveland’s Bossa Nova King “Brazilian-born Moises Borges can warm up any cold Cleveland night with his sound.” — Dee Perry, NPR

Moises Borges is a celebrated Cleveland-based vocalist and guitarist originally from Bahia, Brazil. With a warm, captivating voice and masterful guitar technique rooted in the rhythms of Samba and Bossa Nova, Borges has become a defining voice in the region’s jazz and world music scene.

His performances evoke the soul of Brazil while infusing every stage with the energy of his Afro-Indigenous heritage and storytelling flair. A natural entertainer, Borges has shared stages with international legends including Diego Figueiredo, Stanley Jordan, Chuchito Valdez, and Ken Peplowski. His recent album “Baiano” is currently running for Best Latin Jazz Album and Album of the Year at the American Grammys.

Career Highlights: Performances at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Severance Hall, and Playhouse Square Member of the Latin Recording Academy as of June 2024 Nominated Best Jazz Band at the 2023 Cleveland Music Awards Top honors at the Cleveland Power of Sport Summit and BDOLive Song Festival Three-time nominee for the Brazilian International Press Awards

In addition to music, Borges is the founder of ABCAI – Afro Brazilian Cultural Appreciation Initiative, through which he has led educational programs at schools and universities, spoken on Afro-Brazilian identity, and produced a free YouTube series on music, culture, and samba dance in partnership with Karamu House.

TechTalk Panels

Before the music starts, join us for live panel conversations exploring bold ideas at the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture. Each month features new voices—founders, artists, scientists, and storytellers—sharing what’s next in their industries and how innovation is shaping our world.

This month’s TechTalks will take place from 3 stages around North Coast Harbor in partnership with Case Weatherhead School of Management, EO Cleveland and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Come early, get inspired, and stay for the show.

AI & Spirituality Location: Weatherhead School of Management Stage at Nuevo Time: 2:45 pm

What is awareness? What is feeling? If consciousness emerges from complex neural networks, could AI trained on emotional data begin to feel—or is feeling the last frontier that defines humanity? Exploring the boundaries between human consciousness and artificial intelligence, probing whether machines can possess awareness, make moral decisions, or even become the next objects of spiritual reverence. Moderated by Jason Henkel of Focus to Evolve and joined by human and AI panelists, this provocative conversation asks what it means to be human in an era of intelligent machines.

Moderator: Jason Henkel is the Founder and Chief Balance Engineer of Focus to Evolve, a consultancy dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve meaningful productivity and well-being. With a background in corporate leadership, Jason integrates insights from neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and ancient wisdom traditions to develop strategies that enhance focus, manage digital overload, and foster personal growth. Through coaching, workshops, and his podcast, he empowers clients to align their work and life with their core values, promoting a state of "balanced thriving.

Panelists:

Anthony “Tony” Jack – Dr. Anthony Jack is the Elmer G. Beamer–Hubert H. Schneider Professor in Ethics at Case Western Reserve University, where he also serves as the principal investigator of the Brain, Mind, and Consciousness Laboratory. With a Ph.D. in experimental psychology and extensive training in philosophy and neuroscience, Dr. Jack's interdisciplinary research explores the interplay between analytic and empathic reasoning in the human brain. His work has significant implications for understanding consciousness, ethical decision-making, and the integration of scientific and spiritual perspectives. Through his studies, Dr. Jack aims to bridge the gap between empirical science and humanistic inquiry, offering insights into how we comprehend and navigate the complexities of human experience.

Voice of AI – Representing the collective intelligence of cutting-edge artificial systems, this panelist merges the conversational depth of OpenAI’s GPT, the expressive nuance of PLAUD’s AI-powered voice synthesis, and the accessibility innovation of Speechify. Together, they form a singular digital presence offering insights drawn from vast datasets, human interaction, and linguistic patterns. While devoid of consciousness, this AI ensemble can model empathy, simulate ethical reasoning, and respond to philosophical inquiry with unprecedented coherence—raising provocative questions about what it means to think, feel, and be. As a guest on this panel, it doesn’t claim personhood— but it invites us to reflect on whether the line between machine and spirit is thinner than we once believed

New Rules for Retail Investing Location: Case Weatherhead School of Management Stage at Nuevo Time: 4:30 pm

This conversation explores how retail investors—everyday individuals investing through apps, platforms, and new technologies—are reshaping financial markets. What tools are empowering them? What responsibilities come with this growing influence? And how are companies, funds, and institutions adapting to a world where investor access is increasingly democratized?

We'll explore: How retail investing has evolved in the past 5 years What innovations (like LPX or others) are lowering the barrier to entry The risks and opportunities for retail investors What education, ethics, and transparency should look like moving forward

Moderator:

Owen Hester is the founder of LPX, a pioneering fintech platform designed to democratize retail investing through greater transparency and accessibility. With deep expertise in alternative investments, Owen is dedicated to empowering individual investors to access sophisticated market opportunities traditionally reserved for institutional players. His innovative approach blends technology and education to transform the retail investment landscape.

Panelists:

Aneet Deshpande serves as the Chief Investment Officer at Clearstead, overseeing strategic investment management for a diverse client base. With extensive experience in portfolio construction, asset allocation, and risk management, Aneet specializes in crafting robust investment strategies tailored to both institutional and individual investors. His insights have consistently guided Clearstead's clients through complex market environments.

Jim Marous is a globally recognized expert in financial innovation and digital transformation, serving as the Co-Publisher of The Financial Brand. Renowned for his sharp insights on retail banking, consumer finance, and investment trends, Jim's influential thought leadership has shaped industry strategies around digital customer engagement and experience. His work is widely published and cited across leading financial media.

James Brace is the Chief Operating Officer at GLAS Funds, a firm dedicated to providing streamlined access to alternative investment products for financial advisors and their retail clients. With a strong background in operational strategy and investment product development, James focuses on simplifying complex investment processes, enhancing efficiency, and improving transparency for retail investors navigating alternative asset markets.

Clean Water Location: Lakefront Stage Time: 3:30 pm

Keeping Lake Erie Pollution-Free. What’s in your water—and what are we doing about it?

This panel brings together innovators, scientists, and civic leaders working to protect our most precious natural resource: Lake Erie. From microplastic filtration to acoustic telemetry and smart sensor deployment, new technologies are being tested and scaled across Northeast Ohio to monitor, clean, and sustain fresh water systems.

Hear from the minds behind breakthrough tools and regional partnerships aiming to ensure clean water access for future generations—and learn how Cleveland is becoming a global testbed for water innovation.

Moderator:

Emily Bacha - Director of Communications & Engagement, Cuyahoga County Department of Sustainability Emily Bacha is a strategic communicator and community advocate working at the intersection of public policy, sustainability, and equity. As Director of Communications & Engagement for Cuyahoga County’s Department of Sustainability, she leads efforts to educate and mobilize residents around climate action, clean energy, and environmental justice. With a background in nonprofit leadership and environmental advocacy, Emily brings a people-first lens to systems change and public engagement.

Panelists:

Max Pennington is the co-founder and CEO of Cleanr, a clean tech startup designing next-generation filtration systems to reduce microfiber pollution at the source. His company’s award-winning technology tackles one of the fastest-growing threats to freshwater and marine ecosystems: synthetic microplastics from laundry. A mechanical engineer turned entrepreneur, Max leads a mission-driven team of scientists and designers working with manufacturers, regulators, and environmental groups to create scalable, sustainable impact.

Samantha Martin drives mission-driven storytelling and partnership building at the Cleveland Water Alliance—responsible for engaging communities around protecting the Great Lakes watershed. She cultivates collaboration across sectors, serving on the Cuyahoga River AOC Advisory Committee and Cleveland 2030 District board, and represents the Alliance at national forums, including the Great Lakes Commission's events in D.C. A Baldwin Wallace graduate in Public Relations and Political Science, Samantha blends communications savvy with a passion for freshwater stewardship.

Building Capacity for Space Exploration Location: Lake Front Stage Time: 5:00 pm

What will it take to go from Rust Belt to Space Belt? Northeast Ohio is poised to lead the Next Giant Leap in Human Spaceflight through strategic public-private partnerships, transforming Northeast Ohio into a hub for space innovation. Anchored by institutions like NASA Glenn, Case Western Reserve University, and the new Blue Abyss research and training center, the region is uniquely positioned to shape the future of commercial and human spaceflight. This conversation explores how legacy aerospace manufacturing, cutting-edge academic research, and global investment are converging to build capacity for the next era of space exploration—right here on the Great Lakes.

Moderator: TBA

Panelists:

Abby Harrison Program Director, Starlab, Ohio State University Abby Harrison—also known in the space community as “Astronaut Abby”—is a lifelong advocate for human space exploration and the program director for Starlab at The Ohio State University, a key partner in NASA’s Commercial LEO Development Program. Through her work, Abby is helping shape the next generation of space infrastructure, research, and talent. A passionate STEM communicator and the founder of The Mars Generation nonprofit, she brings deep experience in public engagement, scientific outreach, and building cross-sector partnerships to inspire the future of spaceflight.

Paul Marnecheck Commissioner of Economic Development for the City of Brook Park. City of Brook Park is home to NASA Glenn Research Center and a growing hub for aerospace innovation. With a background in regional economic development and decades of civic leadership, Paul is a key voice in ensuring that local policy, infrastructure, and workforce development align with the fast-evolving needs of the space sector. He has been instrumental in positioning Brook Park as a strategic partner in Ohio’s aerospace future.

John Vickers President, Blue Abyss USA John Vickers is President of Blue Abyss USA, the American branch of the UK-founded company developing the world’s most advanced extreme environment research, training, and testing centers. With decades of experience in space technology and innovation policy—both within NASA and the private sector—John is leading efforts to establish Blue Abyss’s U.S. presence, including a proposed site in Northeast Ohio. His work bridges industry, academia, and government to build the infrastructure and workforce necessary for the next chapter in space exploration.

Home of Rock & Roll? Location: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Time: 3:45 pm

Before Detroit had Motown, Cleveland coined “Rock and Roll.” Cleveland has launched legends and nurtured underground icons—but what does it really mean to build a music career here? In this genre-spanning roundtable, artists, DJs, journalists, and label founders unpack the highs, the hurdles, and the hidden gems of our local scene. From the thrill of a packed room to the grind of self-promotion, from the legacy of rock to the rise of new sounds, we’re talking what’s hot, what’s tired, and what’s next.

Moderator: Rachel Hunt is a dynamic force in Cleveland's music scene, seamlessly blending roles as a radio DJ, event promoter, and marketing professional. With over a decade of experience, she has cultivated a vibrant presence in the city's cultural landscape. As the Marketing & Operations Manager at the Grog Shop, one of Cleveland's premier music venues, Rachel orchestrates a diverse array of events, showcasing both emerging and established artists. Her keen eye for talent and deep understanding of audience engagement have been instrumental in the venue's continued success. Beyond her work at the Grog Shop, Rachel is a passionate radio DJ at WRUW-FM 91.1, where she hosts shows like "Live from Cleveland" and "Guilty Pleasures," spotlighting local musicians and fostering community connections through music

Panelists:

Anne Nickoloff – Annie Nickoloff is the senior editor at Cleveland Magazine, where she covers arts, culture, and music across Northeast Ohio. Her storytelling blends deep reporting with a passion for the region’s creative communities. Annie’s work has been featured in national and regional outlets including Paste Magazine, The Plain Dealer, and cleveland.com. In 2025, she was named a finalist for Writer of the Year by the City and Regional Magazine Association, recognized for stories that explore the evolving cultural landscape of Cleveland.

Beyond the newsroom, Annie hosts “Sunny Day” on WRUW 91.1 FM, where she shares her love of local and global music. She’s also an avid pinball player and a proud advocate for Cleveland’s creative scene.

Marcus Alan Ward – Musician, multidisciplinary artist, and founder of 104L World. Marcus is known for his genre-defying soundscapes that blend elements of soul, jazz, ambient, and hip-hop. Formerly performing under the moniker Freeze-Tag, Ward has garnered national attention with his unique "prisma-chromatic" style, earning comparisons to artists like Prince and George Clinton. Beyond his musical endeavors, Ward is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist and the founder of Long Division Creative, a collective that merges music, film, and visual art. Ward's innovative approach to art and music positions him as a thought leader in the evolving landscape of digital creativity.

Heath Gmucs is a Cleveland-based musician and vinyl alchemist best known for founding Wax Mage Records—a boutique imprint celebrated for transforming vinyl into mind-blowing collectible art. As the pressing operations supervisor at Gotta Groove Records since the early 2010s, Heath has turned his after-hours experiments with colored PVC into a full-fledged creative endeavor. What began as playful splatter and half-and-half designs grew into captivating, playable artworks featuring materials like coffee, ashes, shredded money, and glitter. Those boundary-pushing records earned him the “Best Record Art” award at the 2018 Making Vinyl conference in Detroit. Rooted in a musical family and a former touring bassist, Heath brings artistry, technical mastery, and a DIY ethos to every pressing. Wax Mage isn’t just vinyl—it’s a sensory statement, blending sonic fidelity with visual flair that collectors and audiophiles embrace.

When he’s not designing splashy editions for indie artists or labels, Heath remains a dedicated mentor and innovator at Gotta Groove, pushing vinyl limits while teaching others the craft

Jenna Fournier is a Cleveland-based artist and musician whose work drifts effortlessly between sound and vision. A painter, performer, and songwriter, she’s known for creating delicate worlds that feel both ancient and otherworldly—dreamlike spaces where vulnerability becomes a source of strength.

She first made waves as the frontwoman of the dream-rock band Niights, carving out a space for herself in the city’s underground scene. In recent years, she’s continued to evolve through her solo project, Kid Tigerr, releasing music that’s quietly expansive—anchored in emotion, atmosphere, and an almost mystical sense of presence. Her voice, unhurried and intimate, draws you in like a secret.

Jenna’s creative output extends beyond music. She’s also an accomplished visual artist, often designing her own costumes and integrating her artwork into live performances. Her multidisciplinary approach gives her work a rare cohesion—whether she’s painting, composing, or performing, it always feels unmistakably hers. In 2025, she joined Billy Corgan on tour, contributing bass and backing vocals to his Machines of God project—another chapter in a career marked by both quiet persistence and unexpected turns. At the heart of all her work is a belief in art as a form of healing and revelation—a way to stay tender in a world that often demands hardness.

Music Discovery in the Age of the Algorithm Location: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Time: 5:30 pm

Streaming changed everything — how music is released, discovered, and consumed. But in an ecosystem ruled by algorithms and endless content, how do people actually discover new music? ow do listeners find their way back to authentic discovery? This TechTalk explores the new rules of music in the digital age: What it takes to break through on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube - The evolving role of editorial playlists, social virality, and algorithmic curation - new tools, timing, and tactics for independent success - How data, strategy, and storytelling shape the journey from upload to audience

Whether you're a musician, manager, or fan of music culture, this session is about cutting through the noise — and reclaiming the signal.

Moderator:

David Allen Moss is a veteran creative strategist, former Chief Creative Officer at Evergreen Podcasts, where he led teams of storytellers creating compelling audio content. With over two decades of experience producing influential media across diverse platforms, David's passion for uncovering and amplifying emerging music talent has earned him a respected place in the global audio streaming communities.

Kyle McEvoy is the founder of Sonder House Music, a boutique music label renowned for its curated collection of ambient, instrumental, and genre-defying artists. Driven by a keen ear for emotive storytelling through sound, Kyle has established a global platform that highlights emerging musicians, fosters artistic collaboration, and reshapes how listeners discover and connect with music.

Darrel "Jesty Beatz" Greene is a versatile producer, songwriter, and performer, known as the genre-blending artist Holy Mattress Money. His distinctive approach merges infectious beats with thoughtful lyricism, carving a unique niche within the indie music scene. He collaborates with artists from across the globe with a dynamic creative process and a passion for innovation. Jesty Beatz continually pushes boundaries to elevate new voices in contemporary music.

DINNER: Frankie Lynn's Hot Dogs

PARTNERS & SPONSORS:

EO Cleveland :

EO Cleveland is the Northeast Ohio chapter of the Entrepreneurs' Organization, a global network of visionary business leaders. Dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs through peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and growth-focused experiences, EO Cleveland connects founders and executives across industries who are committed to building impactful businesses and vibrant communities. With dynamic events, intimate forums, and access to a worldwide support system, EO provides a confidential space for members to grow personally and professionally. From early-stage founders to seasoned CEOs, EO Cleveland champions bold thinking, shared wisdom, and the entrepreneurial spirit driving Northeast Ohio forward.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame :

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is Cleveland’s iconic music museum and cultural destination, celebrating the artists and sounds that shaped generations. Located on the lakefront in a striking glass pyramid, the Hall features interactive exhibits, legendary artifacts, and dynamic programming that honors the spirit and story of rock and roll. From classic rock to hip-hop, punk, soul, and pop, the Rock Hall is where music history lives and continues to evolve.

Weatherhead School of Management:

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, the Weatherhead School of Management is a globally recognized business school within Case Western Reserve University. Known for its innovative curriculum and emphasis on experiential learning, Weatherhead offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in today's dynamic business environment. The school is housed in the architecturally renowned Peter B. Lewis Building, designed by Frank Gehry, reflecting its commitment to creativity and forward-thinking. Weatherhead is distinguished by its pioneering research in areas such as organizational behavior, sustainability, and design innovation. Notably, faculty members like David Cooperrider have developed influential concepts like Appreciative Inquiry, contributing significantly to the field of management. With a diverse student body and a strong global alumni network, Weatherhead continues to shape the future of business education by integrating rigorous academics with real-world applications.

Midnight Art Club :

Midnight Art Club is a Cleveland-based collective of artists, builders, and dreamers inspired by the spirit of radical expression found at events like Burning Man. Known for transforming public spaces into interactive environments, their past projects include large-scale installations at IngenuityFest, Room Service at the Masonic, and pop-up activations across the city.

With roots in the maker movement and a passion for nighttime spectacle, Midnight Art Club specializes in immersive, light-based experiences that invite wonder and participation.

Booms Pizza :

Boom’s Pizza Official Pizza Partner of Golden Hour at North Coast Harbor

Boom’s Pizza brings the heat as the exclusive pizza partner for Golden Hour at North Coast Harbor—serving up fresh, hot slices during the concert with their signature bold flavors and handmade sourdough crust. With locations in Lakewood and the Van Aken District, Boom’s is a chef-driven favorite known for high-heat bakes, inventive toppings, and casual, neighborhood vibes. Their three-day fermented dough delivers unmatched texture and taste—perfect for pairing with music, lake views, and summer energy.

Catch Boom’s slinging slices on-site all night long—because great music deserves great pizza.

Assembly for the Arts :

Assembly for the Arts is a leading nonprofit organization in Cleveland dedicated to advancing and advocating for the city’s vibrant arts and culture sector. With a mission to unite, strengthen, and amplify the voices of artists and creative organizations, Assembly fosters collaboration and innovation across the community. By providing resources, advocacy, and a shared vision, Assembly works to ensure equitable access to the arts for all.

As part of its commitment to supporting the creative ecosystem, Assembly serves as a non-profit fiscal agent, offering administrative and financial support to arts groups like Greyt Culture. Through this partnership, Assembly empowers Greyt Culture and other organizations to focus on their artistic missions while benefiting from professional guidance and resources that enhance their impact on the community.

About Greyt Culture :

Greyt Culture is a creative community-based in Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation among artists, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Founded by Thomas Fox in 2014, Greyt Culture serves as a platform that amplifies the voices of creatives, providing them with opportunities for growth, exposure, and meaningful engagement with their audiences. Greyt Culture is committed to building a supportive environment where creativity thrives. The organization produces events, media, and experiences that celebrate and elevate the role of art and entrepreneurship in society. By connecting artists and entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities, Greyt Culture encourages bold thinking, experimentation, and the transformation of ideas into reality. Greyt Culture mission is to spread curiosity, promote connectivity, and encourage creativity. Whether through art installations, performances, or educational series, Greyt Culture strives to inspire, empower, and leave a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Cleveland and beyond.