Austin Podcast Spotlight: Branding Shoot With Talks With Dom

Meet Dominique Ramirez, the voice behind Talks with Dom, an Austin podcast dedicated to sharing the stories of Austinites. From CEOs shaping the city’s business scene to women entrepreneurs paving new paths, her conversations highlight the heart and hustle of our community. Each episode blends personal stories with professional insights, giving listeners both inspiration and perspective. New episodes drop every Friday—perfect for your morning walk or weekend coffee. Ready to hear stories that celebrate Austin in all its diversity?

I recently had the pleasure to meet with Dom to capture her new headshots for her podcast re-branding. This was also an opportunity to hear about her story and her vision for her podcast.

Keep reading to learn more!

1. Let’s start with you. Can you share a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to start an Austin podcast?

I’m Dominique Ramirez and I was born and raised here in Austin. I bleed maroon as I went to Texas A&M University for college and have always been fascinated by people’s stories—how they got to where they are, the unexpected turns their lives have taken, and what drives them. I started Talks with Dom because I wanted to create a space where those stories could be shared openly. Everyone’s journey is unique, and I love being able to highlight that in a way that feels relatable and inspiring. 

2. Every podcast has a story. What was the moment in your life when you knew you wanted to create this space for conversations?

The idea grew during a season when I was reflecting on career paths—my own and others’. I realized how often we only see the “finished product” of someone’s success without hearing about the winding roads, struggles, and pivots it took to get there. That’s when I felt compelled to start the podcast: to shine a light on the in-between parts of people’s journeys.

3. Your podcast highlights people from all walks of life. What draws you to interviewing such a wide variety of guests—from Austin entrepreneurs to moms—and what do you hope listeners take away from those stories?

Austin is such a vibrant city, full of people doing fascinating things in their own ways. I’m drawn to variety because I believe inspiration can come from anywhere—a startup founder, a photographer, a parent balancing family and career. My hope is that listeners walk away feeling encouraged that there’s no one “right” path in life, and that their own story has value, too.

4. Podcasting is as much about learning as it is about sharing. What have you learned so far from your guests, or from the process of hosting your own Austin podcast?

I’ve learned that vulnerability is powerful. When guests are willing to share both their triumphs and struggles, it creates such a genuine connection. On the technical side, I’ve also learned to be adaptable—sometimes the best moments come when you let go of your script and follow the flow of the conversation.

5. Behind the mic. What’s been one of your most memorable or surprising conversations so far?

Honestly, my very first episode will always stand out. My first guest was my little sister, who’s a registered nurse, and looking back nearly a year later, it’s wild to see how far I’ve come since then. I can hear the difference in how much more confident I sound today, but that episode was also so special because it was a core memory—getting to share her story as she was just starting out in her own career while beginning my own story as a podcaster.

6. Many people dream of starting a podcast but feel intimidated. What advice would you give someone who’s considering it?

Don’t overthink it and just do it! You don’t need the fanciest equipment or a perfect plan—you just need curiosity and consistency. Also, remember that your podcast doesn’t have to be for everyone; it just needs to be meaningful to the audience you want to reach.

7. Looking ahead. What’s your vision for Talks with Dom—are there stories or themes you’re especially excited to explore in the future?

I’d love to keep diving deeper into stories about how people define success for themselves and what fire keeps them going to be the person they are today. I’m also excited to bring in more voices from outside the Austin community who come to visit the city—it’s a great way for my audience to learn from fresh perspectives while still celebrating Austin as the backdrop for these conversations.

8. For fun. If you could interview anyone in Austin (or beyond), who would it be and why?

In Austin, I’d love to sit down with Matthew McConaughey—he’s such a storyteller at heart, and I think he’d bring a lot of wisdom and humor to the conversation. Beyond Austin, someone like Selena Gomez would be incredible; her work on vulnerability and courage aligns so closely with the themes that often come up in my podcast as well as the amount of passion she puts in all her projects and professional ventures. #inspirational

Curious to hear more Austin stories? Check out Talks with Dom on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart or follow on Instagram. Dominique Ramirez shares inspiring conversations with local leaders and creatives you won’t want to miss.

Lydia Suzanne Photography is an Austin maternity, newborn, and family photographer serving Austin, TX and surrounding areas including Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Hutto, and Pflugerville. With a light and airy style, Lydia Suzanne offers a full-service photography experience focused on preserving your family legacy with custom artwork for your home. Lydia Suzanne Photography is currently booking maternity, newborn, baby, and family sessions.

Contact me here to inquire about your headshot or branding session.