Secret Media Network Releases List of Changemakers Redefining How Americans Spend Their Free Time

New York, NY (April 22, 2025): Secret Media Network, the world’s largest local entertainment media network with guides in over 200 cities, has today announced its inaugural SMN100, a list of the top 100  entrepreneurs, creators and innovators who are shaping the way you spend your most treasured asset: your free time. The list features an exceptional line-up of individuals who have transformed how locals and tourists alike spend their free time in US cities, including New York, LA, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, and more. The full list is available to view here.

From pioneering content creators behind your next viral obsession to masterminds designing groundbreaking exhibits, or the unsung heroes transforming your third place, these individuals are responsible for shaping the cultural scene in the US. The list spans four categories: Food and Drink, Arts and Culture, Experiential and Sport, and Pioneers.

Food and Drink highlights include Jose Garces, the James Beard award-winning Iron Chef. His collection of Greater Philadelphia restaurants serving Latin American delights is loved by locals and tourists alike. Fariyal Abdullahi, a James Beard-nominated chef, is celebrated for her cultural storytelling through cuisine at Hav & Mar, where she blends her Somali heritage with contemporary techniques to create dishes that bridge communities and spark conversation. Pinky Cole, CEO of Slutty Vegan and the author of 'I Hope You Fail' and 'Eat Plants, B*tch’,  is recognized for transforming Slutty Vegan from a pop-up food truck, into an Atlanta food scene staple. 

Across Arts and Culture, Nadia Lee Cohen is highlighted for shaping American culture through her approach to popular culture as an artist. Julian Shapiro-Barnum, comedian, writer, and creator of the viral Recess Therapy series, is celebrated for his heartwarming and humorous interviews with children that spotlight their wisdom and wonder. With new projects like Celebrity Substitute and Gems with Miles and Julian, he continues to amplify youthful voices and remind us of the power of curiosity and compassion.

Honorees in Experiential and Sport include Caitlin Clark, professional WNBA basketball player, as the impact she has made on bolstering viewership and fandom for women's sports has been outstanding. Miami-based, Tammy Iban, CEO of Clandestinemood is celebrated for redefining the sport and experiential scene with secret parties only for women whose “core” is wellness and live music in unique locations, revealed 24 hours in advance. As one of the most elite architectural engineers in the country.

Pioneers within SMN100 include Hannah Berner & DeSorbo, hosts of Giggly Squad Podcast for their unfiltered and whip-smart commentary while dissecting pop culture trends and dating disasters, with an infectious blend of humor and honesty. Cole Bennett, Founder of Lyrical Lemonade and producer of  Summer Smash Festival, has created one of the largest indie hip-hop festivals in the U.S. attracting headliners like Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, and Chief Keef. Evan Ross Katz, celebrated for his sharp and hilarious take on celebrity culture, has built a devoted following through his hit podcast Shut Up Evan and its equally popular Substack newsletter, mixing commentary, memes, and must-read interviews.

Public Picks features 10 honorees selected by Secret Media Network readers across the country. As founder of The Broadway Sinfonietta, Macy Schmidt uplifts all women through high-quality symphony productions. Anya Freeman, founder of Kind Designs, champions climate action through innovative, scalable solutions inspired by her firsthand experience with rising sea levels. Florence Ludins-Katz and Dr. Elias Katz, founders of the Creative Growth Art Center, have built a thriving, inclusive community for artists with disabilities through the transformative power of art. These standout changemakers are among the ten inspiring voices recognized by the public this year.

Secret Media Network was created to help locals discover their city and uncover hidden gems - the businesses, experiences, restaurants, and more celebrated in the inaugural SMN100 list. Secret Media Network’s team of editors curated lists across each category with a number of spots reserved for the ‘Public’s Pick” within each. The nomination process was conducted through a poll among its national readership, allowing audiences to choose their own favorites, to which the team were inundated with thousands of nominations.

Miriam Cacho, Vice President of Media at the Secret Media Network said: “The SMN100 is all about celebrating the people who are changing the way we experience our cities. This list is our way of giving them the spotlight and showing just how powerful local culture can be

Wider honorees across Food and Drink, Arts and Culture, Experiential and Sport and Pioneers include: 

• Hari Nef, Actress and Model: Hari has become a trailblazer for transgender visibility in the modeling and entertainment industries. From signing with IMG Models to acting in Transparent and Greta Gerwig’s Barbie film, Nef has built a global following, inspiring others to break boundaries and live their truth.
  

• Dr. Woo, Tattoo Artist: From his beginnings with the legendary Mark Mahoney to his trendsetting Hideaway studio, Dr. Woo merges tattoos, art, and fashion into a seamless cultural experience. Each creation is a bold statement that blends music, art, and style, guaranteed to get under your skin.
  

• Damon McLeese, Executive Director at Access Gallery: A pioneer in increasing access to opportunities in the art world, Damon works with Denver-based non-profit, Access Gallery to help foster economic opportunities for artists of all backgrounds, particularly those with disabilities who are often underrepresented in creative industries.
  

• Andrés Rigal, Co-Founder and Creative Director of DTLA Proud Festival: Revolutionizing  nightlife with his inventive touch and meticulous event management, Andrés is behind some of LA's hottest LGBTQI parties which have attendees like Diplo and other A-Listers.
  

Notes to editors

The SMN 100 list can be found here