Lifelong learning ignites creativity, reduces stress, sharpens memory, and enriches our lives in countless ways.

At DCG, we understand that a fulfilling career and life require continuous growth — both mentally and physically. That’s why we foster an environment where exploration, play, and personal development are not only encouraged but celebrated.

Any day at DCG, you might hear of a colleague’s recent book publishing, production in a local theater, or impressive marathon triumph. We make it a point to celebrate these achievements because nurturing our diverse passions fuels our collective success.

Join us as we take a closer look at how DCGers are pursuing the things they love outside of work.

Matthew Malamud: DCG Senior Writer (& Violinist!)

Matthew and his current Capital City Symphony stand partner, who was also his stand partner in college.

How did you get started playing the violin?

In my last year at Devon Aire Elementary School in Miami, the orchestra teacher from the school I would go to next, Arvida Middle School, visited my music class to recruit students. I and most of my classmates had never seen string instruments before — they were exotic compared with the shabby recorders and single-octave xylophones we had, which piqued our curiosity. Many of my friends signed up for orchestra class, so I did, too.

Unbeknownst to me, all my friends who had signed up for orchestra class dropped it before our first day of middle school. I stayed for the simple fact that I didn’t know how to alter my class schedule and was too shy to ask how to do so. It turned out, I had a knack for the violin and a latent love of classical music.

I continued to play violin throughout middle school. I then went to Dillard High School for the Performing Arts and to Florida State University on a music scholarship. I decided in college not to pursue a professional music career, but I never stopped playing. These days, I play in the Capital City Symphony where, oddly enough, I have the same stand partner from my college days.

What do you like most about playing the violin?

At this point in my life, what motivates me to continue playing is its therapeutic value. Whether I’m fiddling around or performing a concert, playing the violin is meditative. The mechanics of playing are second nature to me, and I get completely engrossed in the music. Work, family, my endless to-do list, the chaos around me — I completely tune these out when my violin is tucked under my chin. My violin was also instrumental to my survival of the first years of the COVID-19 pandemic, when orchestra rehearsals and concerts were among the few ways for me to meaningfully connect with others in my community.

Laura Toccket: DCG Paid Media Marketing Manager (& Tennis Player!)

Laura in her tennis gear ready for a day on the court.

What drew you to tennis?

I started tennis when I was in high school and picked up the sport again in 2019. I always loved tennis but never had anyone to play with, so I joined a group lesson to meet people and started playing in local rec leagues in Philly. I am no pro by any means, but it is so much fun!

I wanted to play a sport in high school, but never did anything besides dance. I was always interested in tennis and when I started practicing and met the team, I loved it! I love the sweating and movement. Also, hitting the perfect ball feels so good! It’s great to have fun while working out. It makes me excited and motivated. I laugh a lot during tennis and can’t take a bad game too seriously!

How has tennis influenced other areas of your life?

The physical activity enhances my overall fitness and boosts my energy levels. I thrive on strategy both in and out of work, and the strategic nature of tennis has significantly improved my decision-making abilities. Tennis teaches me to turn losses into valuable learning experiences. Even though I don’t win many games, I thoroughly enjoy playing and learning from others. I have made a lot of connections within tennis and still play with people today that I met 5 years ago!

Kylie Willet: DCG Graphic Designer (& Photographer!)

Kylie on site shooting photos for a Major League Soccer game in Philadelphia

What do you like most about photography?

There is something interesting in noticing details no one else seems to, slowing down an ever-changing moment into a single static frame, or finding small pieces of beauty in a space others might not. It forces you into a different perspective and to recognize all the small details and moments that make up the world around you.

It allows me to mentally slow down and recharge from a hectic day or week. It forces me to shift my perspective — literally and figuratively — to see the world around me differently. The best shots often come from consciously changing your perspective to capture something in a way others might not notice, and sometimes forcing yourself into that habit helps you reset and realign your mentality. I’ve always felt like I perceive and interact with the world differently than other people, and with my camera, I have the ability to capture a little of that and share it.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out?

Start small — you don’t need expensive gear to capture great moments! As your interest, skills, and style develop, you can always invest in better equipment, but it begins with challenging yourself to see the world just a little differently. Pay attention to light/shadows, find new perspectives on everyday things, and notice details you might have missed before. And change how you view others’ work — see it as “What can I learn and challenge myself from this?” and not “Why can’t I ever take photos like that?”

Savana Dempich: DCG Sr. Communications Specialist (& Costume Sewer!)

Ruth, the Midwest porch goose, with her wardrobe of costumes.

How did you get into sewing costumes for your porch goose, Ruth?

I am originally from the Midwest, and a Midwest quirk is dressing up your porch goose. My great grandmother, who I was lucky enough to have in my life for a long time, had a porch goose, and she sewed it outfits. I have fond memories of going over to her house as a child and seeing her porch goose dressed for holidays and Packers’ games. I officially got my own goose in early 2019, and I was lucky enough to get her secondhand and give her another life. I started off just making her hats, but then later started sewing outfits.

Aside from the family connection, it’s just a silly, fun hobby that lets me take a piece of home with me as my spouse’s military career moves us around the country. Plus, I’ve always been crafty.

How does sewing make you feel?

There is something so unserious about sewing clothes for a concrete goose, and I enjoy that it’s something to laugh about. I wouldn’t consider myself particularly good at sewing (yet), but I enjoy the challenge of learning.

Have you made any new friends or connections?

Porch geese are making a resurgence — there are dedicated social media groups. Many of the people I’ve talked to have a family story like mine, growing up with their grandparents having one. While I wouldn’t say I’ve made a true porch goose friend, my goose is always a fun ice breaker, and I like to think seeing her brings joy to others.

Witney James: DCG Account Director (& Singer!)

Witney on stage performing in Washington D.C.

How long have you been singing?

I’ve been singing since I was a little girl. For many years, I only sang at family events, but at the beginning of 2024, I was invited to join an R&B/jazz cover band that’s part of the Special Occasions Entertainment Group based in the Washington, D.C., area.

I was drawn to the band by their performances at local wineries and other venues over the years. Attending and observing their performances led me to put myself out there by offering to be a vocalist if they ever had an opening.

How have you overcome any challenges you’ve faced?

When I first started, it was hard for me to project while singing. To be honest, it’s still something I’m getting better at, but I’ve taken several steps to strengthen my voice, such as doing more vocal warmups, exercising more frequently, consuming less dairy products, and staying hydrated. Strengthening my voice and becoming a better vocalist with every performance motivates me to continue pursuing it.

How has singing contributed to your personal growth?

It has definitely helped me with my confidence and positive outlook. I have something to look forward to that requires dedication and commitment but is so fun and rewarding. It fills my cup and supports my mental health.

DCG Hidden Talents: A Look Outside the Workplace and the Pursuit of Personal Passions was originally published in DCG Life on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

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