Remember when Jack traded his cow for the 'magic' beans? That moment when he believed the possibilities heavily outweighed the risk? That's Magik Beans. We reside in that moment when you step into the unknown from the comfort of the known. We know that when you believe deeply enough and combine the right humans with the vast expanse of possibilities, there is no limit to what can be created. #bettertogether
LouAnn Berglund
Founder / Magik Beans
I have been residing in that trading the last cow for magic beans moment of choosing to believe deeply, for my entire life. As a mother, I have showered my children with love and magik and delighted in watching their tendrils spin off in each their own direction. Professionally I have translated that energy into award-winning creative, storytelling, activations, and wicked-effective brand partnerships that surprise and delight both communities and brands alike. Magik Beans is the chapter where I am honored to work with unbelievably, crazy talented and AUTHENTIC humans to connect communities to brands in thoughtful and mutually beneficial ways that foster genuine and sustainable growth for everyone.
Emmai Alaquiva
President / CEO Yer Momz House
Magik Beans ; Official Documentarian
Emmai Alaquiva’s mission is to crystallize the human spirit through cinematic and purposeful storytelling. A TEDx Speaker and four-time Emmy Award-winning director/photographer, he has worked with Roc Nation, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, CBS Sports Network, AMAZON, BMW, and more. In 2023, he oversaw film visuals for Jay Z's ‘The BOOK OF HOV’ exhibit. Recently, Governor Josh Shapiro appointed him Vice Chair of the PA Council on the Arts, and his community impact has been recognized by President Barack Obama.
Richard E. Pelzer
Founder / CEO Harlem CLX
Magik Beans ; Community Architect
Richard E. Pelzer II, President & CEO of MEGA Personalities, a Business Development Management Firm founded in 1994, and Co-Founder of HarlemCLX, leverages his strong leadership and creative vision to develop opportunities in the fashion, beauty, and entertainment industries. His notable clients include the NYSE Diversity Council, Sephora, Essence Magazine, and The Apollo Theater. Pelzer is known for cultivating long-lasting partnerships within his orbit, and over the last 30 years in the community of Harlem.
Mo Opperman
Barn Owl / Founder
Magik Beans ; AI Architect
Michael is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience in bridging technology, marketing, & design to forge new markets and create transformative experiences. His expertise in human-centered and technology-driven initiatives accelerate revenue & stimulate growth, & bring joy to people's lives. His work with companies focuses on integrating cutting-edge digital strategies with thoughtful design principles. Michael values kindness, accountability, passion, & optimism.
George Holz
Founder / Holz Photography
Magik Beans ; Celebrity Photography
George Holz was born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee (aka “the Secret City”), graduated from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, and assisted for Helmut Newton, whom he credits with guiding his career. As a fledgling photographer, he lived in Milan and Paris, where he shot beauty and fashion for major European magazines such as Italian Vogue and French Elle. Afterward, he moved to New York City, where he set up his famous studio on Lafayette Street, traveling frequently to Los Angeles and Europe to shoot fashion, advertising, and portraiture for major publications such as Vanity Fair and Harper’s Bazaar. His fine-art nudes have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. His shows have included “Original Sin” and “Three Boys from Pasadena – A Tribute to Helmut Newton” Holz has collected a variety of prestigious industry awards over the years including a Grammy and a Clio. Holz’s book Holz Hollywood: 30 Years of Portraits was published in 2016.
Emily Abel
Magik Beans / Social Media Mgr
Emily is enthusiastic, dedicated, and strongly interested in graphic design and digital marketing. She graduated with degrees in graphic design and photography from Montana State University, where she gained foundational knowledge in visual communication, branding, and technical proficiency. With a passion for small business web design, building digital communities, and exploring creative bounds, Emily brings her knowledge of the digital age to this dynamic team. In her free time, Emily enjoys gardening and caring for plants, which further fuels her patience and commitment to nurturing ideas to watch them grow.
Jenna Akre Lalley
Jenna Lalley Design / Owner
Magik Beans ; Art Director, Design
Versatile, award-winning creative director/designer with more than 15 years experience crafting stories and building powerful lifestyle brands. A savvy, strategic thinker who enjoys finding fresh ways to inspire meaningful connection and drive people to action.
Aura Highsmith
Magik Beans / Grant Writer
Aura Highsmith is a seasoned grant writing professional with over twenty years of experience. She is responsible for identifying funding opportunities for organizations and specializes in crafting polished proposals to secure essential grants. Aura manages all aspects of the grant proposal process, including researching deadlines, drafting requests, and submitting reports for approval. Her expertise has earned her numerous accolades, including the opportunity to bring global arts-inspired programs to US classrooms, arts centers, and underserved communities. Aura's impressive portfolio includes three Fulbright-Hays Programs, where she served as an ambassador for US educators in the Philippines, China, and Japan. Additionally, she was a scholar for IREX’s Teachers for Global Classrooms program in Ukraine. Her passion lies in working with organizations dedicated to building bridges that connect global and cultural awareness to communities through artistic infusion. Aura has successfully helped numerous projects achieve their goals on both national and international levels.
Stacy Midgett
Magik Beans ; Administration & EA
Stacey Midgett is a seasoned professional with years of experience in enterprise administration. As both a project manager and executive assistant, she has mastered the art of keeping things running smoothly at high levels. Known for her keen eye for detail and outstanding organizational skills, Stacey has successfully managed complex projects and supported top executives. Her talent for streamlining processes, coordinating teams, and boosting operational efficiency has made her a go-to resource in a variety of industry's the theplayers within them.
Rodney LoveJones
Founder / Graphite House
Magik Beans ; Event Art Direction
Rodney Love Jones is the visionary owner of Graphite House in Atlanta, a company known for its innovative and dynamic approach to media and production. With a rich background in media and marketing, Rodney has carved out a reputation for creating compelling narratives and impactful content. His leadership at Graphite House underscores his commitment to excellence and creativity, driving forward projects that resonate deeply with diverse audiences and stand out in the competitive landscape. Rodney's work exemplifies the fusion of strategic insight and creative execution.
Tim Butler
Founder / Growth Fire
Magik Beans ; M&A Advisor
Tim Butler is the founder and managing partner of GrowthFire, LLC, a Minneapolis-based company. With a robust background as a CEO and senior Sales and Marketing executive in the technology industry, Tim has a proven track record of transforming technologies into successful companies. He holds a Finance degree from the University of Missouri and an MBA in Marketing from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota. Tim is also actively involved in executive roles within industry associations and serves as a mentor and board member for various organizations
Zechariah Thormesgaard
Founder / Gaardhouse
Magik Beans ; Movie Production
Gaardhouse is a production company specializing in crafting high-quality, visually stunning content across various media platforms. With a focus on innovative storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, Gaardhouse has established itself as a leader in the production industry. Their portfolio spans commercials, music videos, and branded content, showcasing their versatility and commitment to excellence. Renowned for their creative vision and technical expertise, Gaardhouse collaborates with top-tier clients to deliver impactful, memorable productions that resonate with audiences and elevate brands.
