We had the good fortune of connecting with Gloria Baranski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi gloria, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
Being Consistent. Consistency is everything. You have to continue to do the most mundane task over and over again with out any results. Eventually you will build momentum and once you have that you dont want to lose it. its very hard to build up.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Art was never on my radar. I actually started college with plans to become a lawyer. One year in, I knew deep down it wasn’t for me. I changed my major to Digital Media—something that didn’t sit well with my family at the time. Still, I followed that spark, graduated, and moved back home to Miami to help with the family business.

We owned a bicycle store, and I was asked to take it to the next level—by traveling to Asia to manufacture our own line. I lived in China, producing bikes and parts. And while I was proud to be creating, something was missing. Bicycles weren’t my dream.

So, I made the hardest but most important decision: I stepped away. I learned to stop living for other people’s expectations and start chasing what made me come alive.

That decision opened everything up. I began designing my own apparel line—shoes, purses, and backpacks—using vibrant Peruvian fabrics that told their own stories. The more I created, the more I discovered my voice. I was no longer just making things—I was expressing myself.

Then I met John, my husband, and that’s when everything shifted. He introduced me to the car world, and I fell hard. The sounds, the lines, the power—the art in motion. Together, we started Miami Car Cartel.

What began with a camera and curiosity turned into a mission: to showcase automotive culture with a Miami twist. We’re here to tell the stories that go beyond the paint jobs and the engines—to highlight the people, the passion, and the culture that makes this city move.

Miami Car Cartel is fueled by the values that have guided me all along:
Community. Culture. Music. Art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Welcome to Little Havana
Start your trip with flavor and soul in Little Havana. Grab a Cuban coffee and a bite at Versailles or La Carreta, then wander Calle Ocho, where the air hums with music, domino games, and the smell of fresh cigars. Feel the energy, meet the locals, and soak in the heart of Miami’s Cuban culture.
Day 2 – Wynwood Walls & Mojito Nights
Head to Wynwood to immerse yourself in bold street art, murals, and colorful corners. Snap photos, visit local galleries, and grab lunch at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar or a taco spot nearby.
At night, slide over to Miami Mojito Company Bar for cocktails, live music, and a proper Miami-style night out.
Day 3 – Coastline Ride: North to South Beach
Start your morning in North Beach, rent a bike, and enjoy a breezy coastal ride down to South Beach. Take in the ocean views, art deco architecture, and sunshine along the way.
Midway or once you reach South Beach, make a flavorful stop at La Sandwicherie—a beloved local spot known for its fresh baguette sandwiches, crisp veggies, and iconic vinaigrette that hits every time. It’s the perfect beach-side bite to recharge. After lunch, chill out on the sand, catch some rays, and take a dip in the warm Atlantic.
Day 4 & 5 – Weekend Car Culture
It’s the weekend—so check out Miami’s car scene! Look up local car shows, meets, or pop-up events around the city. From muscle to exotic, the diversity of cars mirrors the people behind them. You’ll meet passionate builders, collectors, and creators who live and breathe this culture.
Day 6 – Design District Day
Stroll through the Miami Design District—a sleek, artsy space where fashion meets modern architecture. Explore galleries, installations, and luxury boutiques. Don’t forget to check out the Institute of Contemporary Art while you’re there.
Day 7 – Chill, Reflect, and Sunset Views
Wind down your trip with a relaxed morning—maybe brunch in Coconut Grove or a smoothie by the bay. Catch one last sunset at South Pointe Park, watching the city glow and reflecting on an incredible week.

Wind down your trip with a relaxed morning—maybe brunch in Coconut Grove or a smoothie by the bay. Catch one last sunset at South Pointe Park, watching the city glow and reflecting on an incredible week.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to two of the greatest influences in my life: God and my husband, John.

First and foremost, I give thanks to God, my ultimate mentor and constant source of strength. Through every twist in my journey—from uncertain beginnings to bold new directions—He has been my rock. His guidance has anchored me in moments of doubt and fueled my growth with faith, courage, and clarity. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without His presence in my life.

And to John—my partner, my best friend, my biggest supporter. His love and encouragement have been the spark behind my creativity and confidence. He never asks me to be anything but myself, and that freedom has opened doors I never knew existed. We’re very different in how we see the world, but that contrast has only deepened my understanding and appreciation of life. He’s shown me new ways to think, to feel, to create.

I’m deeply grateful for God’s grace and for crossing paths with such a kind, extraordinary soul like John. Walking through life with both of them in my corner is the greatest blessing I could ever ask for.

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