Martin Figueroa interviews and examines the day to day lives of extraordinary people who are passionate and successful in life without the hunger of material rewards or gains.
The biggest companies in the world don't succeed because they have the biggest budgets—they succeed because they tell unforgettable stories. In this fascinating episode, award-winning creative director Rob Bagot shares the psychology behind advertising that moves people to action and explains how AI is making world-class marketing accessible to businesses of every size. Discover how to position yourself, your company, or your organization with greater clarity, authenticity, and impact while avoiding the biggest mistakes most marketers are making today. #social media growth #marketing #success www.storymachinefilms.com
Devon Njonjo is a dynamic leader, industrial engineer, mentor, and advocate for social impact, passionate about empowering others through leadership, innovation, and service. A graduate of the University of Southern California and a Dean’s List scholar, Devon combines analytical thinking with people-centered leadership to inspire meaningful change in organizations and communities. Dedicated to promoting social leadership, mentoring emerging professionals and students, and motivating others to pursue excellence with purpose and integrity, he believes true success is measured not only by achievement but by the positive impact made on others through leadership, mentorship, and community engagement. #USC #Leadership #Motivation #Motivation #Mentorship
In this episode, we talk with Meagan Rocomo-Besa Baker — an operator, strategist, and emerging voice in longevity, health, and biotech. With seven years of experience across digital health, biotech, and executive recruiting, Meagan brings a rare blend of scientific insight, systems thinking, and human-centered perspective. We explore her work on Ethrelis, her platform for longevity strategy, health ethics, and AI-driven insights, and on Ultrix, her new knowledge engine for the biotech community. She also reflects on her journey as a Filipino-Polish American from Indiana and her time at Venture University. If you’re interested in where longevity and biotech are headed, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Website: https://ethrelis.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/meaganrbbaker/
This podcast explores the intersection of psychology, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Corradi holds a PhD in Local Economic Development, a Master’s in Social and Organizational Psychology, and a BA in Psychology. She is the founder of Vencer o Vale da Morte and an experienced executive coach, mentor, and speaker on entrepreneurship, small business development, and leadership.
Each episode delivers evidence-based insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, decision-making, and sustainable business growth, helping founders and leaders navigate challenges and thrive.
Connect with Dr. Ariane A. Corradi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acorradi/
Joe Garcia’s story is one of profound transformation, redemption, and the unexpected power of music and writing to change a life. Once serving a life sentence for taking another person’s life, Joe spent over 20 years in prison before finding his voice through storytelling. His powerful essays — “Listening to Taylor Swift in Prison” and “From Life in Prison to the Eras Tour” — published in The New Yorker and read by over a million people, captured hearts around the world. Now free, Joe is a writer for CalMatters and is working on his first book. In this episode, Joe shares how Taylor Swift’s music, self-reflection, and the written word helped him rebuild his identity, offering a moving testament to hope, accountability, and the possibility of redemption.
Step into the world of rising music stars Suede Avery and Jordyn Diew—musicians, singers, producers, and writers—who share their powerful and inspirational stories about chasing dreams, breaking barriers, and creating authentic music. From their roots in Oakland, California, to studying at one of the top music schools in the world, USC’s Thornton School of Music, Suede and Jordyn take you behind the music with raw insight, creativity, and passion. Instagram: @saudeavery @Jordyn_diews_music
n this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Akila Kadambi, a leading researcher at the UCLA Brain Research Institute, USC Brain and Creativity Institute, and fellow at the UCLA-CDU Dana Center. She is an expert in Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience, exploring how positive and humanistic neuroscience reshapes our understanding of the mind. Dr. Kadambi’s groundbreaking work focuses on the neuroscience of empathy, pro-social behavior, and how societal factors shape our brain's expression of compassion and connection. From the wiring of our neural circuits to the impact of culture and community, she offers a compelling look at how kindness isn't just a moral ideal—it's a measurable, trainable, and deeply biological part of being human. Whether you're curious about the science behind empathy or how we can build a more connected and compassionate world, this conversation is a must-listen. Her work is funded by the Dana Center, Google Research, Sanford Institute, and the NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative #USC #UCLA #Neuroscience
Join Grace Nowzari—communications expert, clinical psychology graduate, and improv enthusiast—as she brings her signature energy and insight to the mic. With a B.A. in Communication and Journalism, a minor in French, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Grace blends academic depth with real-world wisdom. Grace shares powerful life lessons, confidence-building tools, and transformative conversations—all rooted in the spontaneity and joy of improv. Whether you're a student, creative, or just navigating adulthood, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on thriving in college, relationships, and beyond. Authentic, uplifting, and just the right amount of unscripted—this is your invitation to say yes, and to life. #USC #motivation
Kelly Dormandy, USC women's strength coach and USC women's basketball director of sports performance, reveals her powerful journey. Dormandy is a nationally recognized expert in strength and conditioning and has trained elite athletes at the University of Southern California, the University of Georgia, Loyola Marymount University, and the Los Angeles Sparks. She has a BA in marketing and a master's degree in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. #USC #USCWBB #USC Follow her @kd_coachd
Former Green Berets James Mahurin and Robert Farmer host the new podcast Black Sheep Radio USA: A Conversation with Warriors, which offers an unfiltered, powerful dive into the world of resilience, strength, and survival after war. With over 17 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, both hosts have faced the brutal realities of war, enduring significant physical injuries and battling the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress.
This podcast isn’t just about their stories—it’s about brotherhood, healing, and purpose beyond the battlefield. Through raw conversations with fellow warriors, veterans, and experts, Mahurin and Farmer shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those who have served their country. They tackle mental health, trauma recovery, and the mission to support others—inside and outside the military.
Join Juan Dimas, an acclaimed financial adviser, student engagement expert, and financial aid professional, as he explores the intersection of financial empowerment and education. With a B.A. and M.B.A. in Business Management and Administration, Juan combines his extensive expertise in student loans, financial planning, and higher education with a deep commitment to social impact. Currently a doctoral student at the University of Southern California, Juan is also a passionate advocate for the rights and preservation of indigenous communities. Whether you’re a student, parent, or financial professional, Juan offers actionable advice to help you take control of your financial future while promoting equity and inclusion.
Behind the scenes of the booming Boba Tea business. Are all Boba Tea shops equal? Here is the behind-the-scenes story of two entrepreneurs changing the face of the Boba tea business. Jenna Wu and Cameron Wong are USC Marshall School of Business graduates. Jenna combines her love of fitness and healthy foods with Cameron's Boba Milk Tea business expertise. Amino Avenue specializes in crafting low-sugar, low-calorie boba drinks and high-protein, low-calorie foods and snacks. #boba #USC #USCMarshall #motivation #business @Aminoave Check out: Aminoave.com
Voices in the Spotlight: The Musical Odyssey of Hannah Abrahim. Hannah is a graduate of the USC Thorton School of Music. She is an accomplished voice coach, singer, and writer. She studied under USC Music Professor and legend Patrice Rushen. Hannah has sung background vocals for Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Tiesto, and Lil Nas X, among others. She has sung at the Hollywood Bowl and has amassed 634k downloads for her music. Check out her fantastic song titled Fantasy. You can follow her on her social media at Made4Muisc, YouTube, and Instagram. You can also follow Hannah Abrahim on Linkedin.com and TikTok. USC student Cooper Brown is the co-host for today's podcast.
Join us in this inspiring podcast as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Bee Ayuso, a decorated bodybuilding champion, personal trainer, social media influencer, mother, and business owner. Bee shares her invaluable insights on building a healthy lifestyle while staying positive and motivated in facing challenges. Discover her secrets to balancing fitness, family, and business, and learn how you can achieve your goals with determination and a positive mindset. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or looking for motivation to reach your goals, this podcast has something for everyone. Tune in and get ready to transform your life with Bee Ayuso's expert advice and uplifting stories. Follow her social media: IG-Beeayuso IG-wearesharks_fitclub IG-bfit_mealprep
Fitness Rx: Jump Roping and Lifting Weights to Health with Future Doctor and Influencer Natalie Goldstone. Natalie Goldstone is a fitness enthusiast, avid jump roper, weight lifter, fitness influencer, and future doctor. She addresses fitness myths about weight lifting, dieting, challenges of staying fit while in a demanding graduate school program and staying positive regardless of obstacles in life. It was a fantastic interview, and she is an amazing person. You can follow her on her IG account @gainsbygoldstone and YouTube. Please enjoy my interview with Natalie Goldstone. Fight on!
Elite Leadership: Unveiling Strategy with Dr. Apollo Emeka, Former Green Beret. Dr. Apollo Emeka is a former Green Beret and FBI intelligence analyst. He is currently a strategy and leadership consultant for his company, Apolly Strategy Group. Dr. Emeka has a B.A. in Sociology and a Doctorate in Policy, Planning, and Development from the University of Southern California. Contact: Apollo@apollostrategy.com #Courgage #Strategy #leadership
Unlocked: A discussion with attorney Susan Lawrence and Nick Woodall on life after prison. Susan is a famous attorney and physician who tirelessly works for those in prison who want a second chance. She is also an expert on the impact of psychopathy on criminal justice reform and society. Nick Woodall is the founder of POSSE Solutions LLC. I provide clemency application and parole board portfolio preparation services. I also educate prisoners and promote rehabilitation unto release through correspondence certificate courses, which teach the development and understanding of causative factors, remorse, responsibility, impact & magnitude, among others.
Dive into the captivating journey of Saeed Stikeleather, a true embodiment of resilience and dedication in the entrepreneurial realm. Through highs and lows, Saeed's unwavering determination led him to establish one of Las Vegas's premier Acai and smoothie destinations. Join us as we uncover the trials, triumphs, and invaluable lessons behind his remarkable ascent to success. Check out his business, Liquid Las Vegas, the next time you are in Las Vegas. IG: Liquid_lasvegas #dedication #entrepreneur #perseverance #Success
Brad Taylor Talks: From Special Forces to writing a New York Times Best-Selling Novel series. I'm thrilled to have a true American hero and New York Times Bestselling author with us today – the only Brad Taylor. Brad spent most of his career as a silent force, serving in the Special Forces on assignments that took him across the globe. His debut novel, "Rough Man: A Spy Thriller," not only marked his entry into the literary world but also catapulted him onto the prestigious New York Times Bestseller list. With 18 novels under his belt, Brad has created a gripping book series that captivates readers with every page turn. And the wait is over! Brad's latest masterpiece, "Dead Man's Hand," is set to hit the shelves on January 23, 2024. The book can be ordered at bradtaylorbooks.com
Fitz Koehler is a world-renowned fitness trainer, media personality, best-selling author, motivational speaker, and cancer survivor. She has an M.S. in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of Florida. The author of Your Healthy Cancer Comeback: Sick to Strong. Check out her website at: www.Fitzness.com #fitness #Wellness #workouts #health #motivational
Dive into the inspiring journey of Red Claybon III, a multifaceted individual who wears many hats as a successful entrepreneur, model, artist, and visionary founder of Spirit Gallery. With a solid educational foundation, holding both a B.A. and an M.B.A. in marketing, Red shares invaluable insights in this interview. Join us as he candidly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, advocates for the significance of equity and empathy in the employment space, and offers profound wisdom on achieving balance in the multifaceted tapestry of life. This podcast is your backstage pass to the triumphs, challenges, and lessons learned from a dynamic personality at the intersection of business, modeling, education, and the art of living well. #leadership #motivation #empathy #business #USC
Unshackled Spirit: Triumph Over a Life Sentence: The Mianta McKnight Story. MIanta McKnight was incarcerated since the age of 17 and in prison for a life sentence. She was eligible for parole after serving 18 years and one day in prison. Upon her release from prison, she earned her B.A. and became a professional dancer, massage therapist, and life coach. She works at several non-profits and is the proud mother of two children. Her story chronicles a fantastic journey of survival and strength! #prisonreform #Socialjustice #inspiration #motivation #justice
Sara Ash is an accomplished ombudsperson, conflict resolution expert, and disability advocate. She has a B.A. in English and a Master's in Adult and Higher Education. She has worked in higher education for over 15 years and has experience as the director of student success. She was a Yale Writers Workshop attendee and was awarded staff member of the year twice. Ms. Ash provides excellent advice and insight on resolving conflicts in your organization while raising essential issues around disability issues. #disability rights #ombudsperson#conflict management #leadership
Frank Zane is a 3x Mr.Olympia and Mr. Universe and is a bodybuilding legend. He is a health and fitness pioneer and is believed by many to have one of the best physiques in bodybuilding history. He has been a lifelong educator, health/ fitness expert, trainer, author, podcaster, and Bodybuilder Hall of Fame member. You can learn more about this living legend at FrankZane.com. #fitness #inspirational #motivational #bodybuilding #health #goldsgym #Frankzane
Rick Loma has a successful social media business and promotes positive content. He has built a social media following on Instagram with over 249k followers. He has expertise in marketing, public relations, advertising, mass communication, and economics—excellent life advice on achieving success and staying positive. #motivation #inspirational
Aminah Elster spent 15 years in prison for murder and today is an inspirational leader and advocate for women. Upon her release from prison, she immediately enrolled in school and was accepted to the University of California, Berkeley. Upon graduating from UC Berkeley, she started the non-profit Unapologetically Hers and is a successful Systems Change Consultant—a story of resilience and strength.
Director Christine Yoo and marathoner Markelle Taylor speak about the award-winning film 26.2 to Life! This film chronicles the inspirational story of San Quentin State Prison inmates who discover hope through running. Director Christine Yoo discusses her personal transformation while directing this film and the relationships she builds with San Quentin State Prison inmates. Markelle Taylor speaks about his transformation from running marathons at San Quentin to his invitation to run in the Boston Marathon while still incarcerated.
Gunner Johnson and Christian Branscombe made national news for their stories of redemption. Both men spent their early adult years behind bars for serious criminal offenses and came to a place of healing to lead productive and meaningful lives. Moreover, Christian Branscombe shot Gunner Johnson, and they are now best friends. This is their story. Gunner Johnson is now the housing coordinator for Project Rebound at Sacramento State University and Christian Branscombe is a life coach for his own consulting company Bare Bones Coaching(https://www.christianbranscombe.com/)
The Return Of Steve Maxwell-Steve Maxwell is one of the world's best fitness trainers, a military veteran, and a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu legend. Today, he travels the globe training professional athletes and others on how to live a long and healthy life. Moreover, he continues to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to others while displaying love and passion for life. Great interview and amazing fitness and life advice.
Gloria Figueroa discusses the triumphs and challenges of raising nine children in Oakland, California. Enjoy the interview! Special thanks to all those incredible women and men making a difference in the world for our children.
An International Matchmaker and Relationship Mentor, grounded in science and practical wisdom from a fascinating lifetime of experiences and working directly with individuals for over eighteen years, Joy Nordenstrom offers ways to be your best in partnership. To learn more, email her at joy@joyofromance.com: to join the private Intelligent Love Office Hours with INTELLIGENT LOVE LIST and for the VIP Membership to her Matchmaking Database, put JofR VIP APPLICATION, in the subject line. Get ready for her upcoming vodcast by subscribing to her YouTube Channel now: https://www.youtube.com/@JoyNordenstrom
Part one of this conversation is posted on the podcast "Learning the Hardway the Easy Way" with Alex Culley, which features an interview with Martin Figueroa. This interview is Part 2 of this podcast and addresses effective leadership and management approaches in small and large organizations. My guest for this podcast (i.e., Part 2) is Alex Culley, the Executive Director of the Institute of Executive Development and a leading expert/consultant/coach on effective leadership and management. Great insight on motivating people in the workplace, the perils of micromanagement, generational challenges, and the benefits of teleworking.
Dr. Carol Geffner is a global management consultant and executive coach, author, and leadership scholar and expert.
Willie C. Jenkins Jr. is a successful entrepreneur and owner of The Sammiche Shoppe. Willie is a native of Los Angeles and shares his extraordinary life story and strategies for starting a thriving restaurant in Los Angeles—a great perspective on life and staying motivated and focused on your goals.
Amanda Sparso is a movie director, CGI professional, dancer, model, mentor, and professor. She has directed and produced the award-winning animation Yuafen(Youtube). Moreover, she is a CGI professional who has worked on projects for Nickelodeon and for shows such as Gossip Girl, to name a few. Ms.Sparso is also a professor, model, artist, and dancer. She shares her unique insight on achieving your goals and focusing on your dreams no matter the obstacles. You can follow her on IG and TikTok @amanda_Sparso, and her website is Amandasparso.com
Patrick Riccards is the CEO of Life After Hate. This organization is the nation's leader in violence intervention. The organization's primary focus is assisting those who want to leave extremist groups. His organization has been profiled by CBS, among other media outlets. Patrick has authored several books(i.e., Dadprovement, Dad in a Cheer Bow, and Why kids can't read) and has been published in the New York Times, U.S.A. Today and Washington Post. He is a nationally recognized expert in teaching and a strategic leader and communications professional. #leadership, #hate groups#education#teaching#Communication#Ethics#Politics
University of Southern California Professor(adjunct) Rick Culley is a Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Executive coaching expert. He and his son are the directors of the Institute for Executive Development(IED) in Las Vegas, Nevada—one of the country's most successful Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Executive Coaching organizations. Rick and Alex provide unique insight on becoming better leaders in both your professional and personal life. This episode will change the way you view Leadership and Strategic Planning. You will learn about Culleyisms. Alex Culley will launch his podcast next week-Learning the hard way-the easy way!
Scott Shafer is the senior editor for KQED(an NPR/PBS member station)Politics and Government Report. Scott Shafer came to KQED in 1998 to host the statewideCalifornia Report. He is now Senior Editor for KQED's Politics and Government Desk, providing reporting, hosting, and analysis while also overseeing the politics desk. Scott co-hosts the weekly show and podcast Political Breakdown. This podcast explores his extraordinary life and professional journey. (Bio excerpts credited to KQED.com)
Darrell Rivera is a famous choreographer/dancer and social media sensation with over 20 million downloads on YouTube alone. He has appeared on Ellen, The Grammy Awards, The Billboard Awards, and in music videos. Darrell has also performed with Shania Twain and Aerosmith, among other entertainers. He is also the choreographer for the famous Las Vegas show Thunder from Down Under. He teaches weekly dance classes at Millennium Dance Complex in Las Vegas. You can follow him on IG/TikTok and Youtube at dareal08. My co-host today was USC Professor Paul Danczyk.
Olivia Lau is an engineer, former college athlete, and community educator. She is an Oakland native who excelled in music, sports, and athletics. While attending the University of Southern California, she was on the crew team for four years. She graduated from USC with a bachelor of science in biomedical engineering and supports the non-profit organization Engineering Tomorrow(i.e., provides free classes to high schools in engineering).
Katey Gilbert is a criminal defense attorney and prison reform advocate. Some of her clients include Marcus "China Dogg" Nunn, one of the founders of the Bloods street gang. She has her B.A. in Political Science/Psychology and received her law degree from Santa Clara University. USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, Professor, Paul Danczyk joined the podcast to round out the interview.
Carlos Becerra (CEO of Becerra Tutoring) is a testing expert, curriculum designer, Education tech. Specialist, tutor, counselor, and thought leader of Becerra Educational Counseling(https://www.bectutoring.com/). He has coached and guided thousands of individuals to achieve educational, professional, and personal goals. He has his B.A. from the University of Chicago and is a doctoral student in Education at the University of Southern California. My co-host for this program is Elan Carter from the podcast(co-host) Getting balanced with Tempting Conversations with Dr. Marissa.
Keith Hall is a pilot, teacher, and Director of Fleet and Aviation Services with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. This agency is one of the most significant water and power districts in the United States. He has a B.S. in business management from Pepperdine and a master's degree in leadership from the University of Southern California. Moreover, he has a teaching credential from UCLA and spent many years teaching in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Great advice on how to promote in an organization, build effective teams, manage personnel, and recruit staff.
Tim Long is a passionate educator who overcame four life sentences-this is his story! He is currently the education coordinator for a large non-profit organization in the San Francisco Bay Area. Moreover, Tim mentors adults and juveniles to focus on education to build a better life free from the criminal justice system. He will be completing his B.S. in Mathematics in the Spring of 2023! Happy New Year, everyone.
Trace Austin is a talented entertainer, musician, actor, singer, rapper, and influencer. His most recent album is The Offspring, and he is the founder of the non-profit anti-bullying organization "Together All Protected." He is the grandson of Otis Williams, the founder of The Temptations.
Elan Carter is an actress, author, international model, and former Soul Train dancer. She has appeared on Seinfeld and Fresh Prince of Bel Air, to name a few. She was recently profiled on Youtube for the Soul Train Awards and has performed with Duran, Duran, the Jacksons, and Bobby Brown. She has traveled the world as an international model and is a writer. Her father is also Otis Williams, one of the founders of The Temptations(i.e., My Girl, Just My Imagination). She is working on a book, entertainment projects, and soon-to-be-released NFTs. Fantastic insight and advice about life and the entertainment industry.
Frank Zerunyan, J.D. is a University of Southern California Professor in Governance and Leadership at the Sol Price School of Public Policy. He is also the Director of Executive Education at the USC Bedrosian Center on Governance and The Neely Center for Ethical Leadership. Frank shares his perspective on leadership and his personal story of resilience.
Steve Maxwell is a fitness and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend. He is the first person certified to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the United States. In this episode, Steve shares his diet, fitness routine, longevity, teaching advice, and travel experiences.
Sean Sheppard is a law enforcement and community relations expert and CEO of Game Changer. He has BA in Psychology from Georgetown and MA in Sports Psychology from San Diego State University. He has spent a good portion of his career coaching college and professional athletes and is doing groundbreaking work in police and community relations. Currently, he is the CEO of the non-profit organization Game Changer.
Marco Hurtado is a social media dancing sensation, BJJ brown belt, world traveler, and retired accountant. He has over one million followers on his social media platforms and is a true inspiration. He has appeared on the hit NBC show "Dancing with myself." You can follow him on TikTok and Instagram at the bearded__boomer.
Jason Williams is a brilliant chemist, UCLA doctoral student, researcher, Marine veteran, and bodybuilder. This podcast chronicles his struggles from a marginal student to a rising star in research and helping to pioneer new medical treatments.
Sandra Johnson is a community organizer, employee advocate, reformer, and formerly incarcerated activist. She speaks about overcoming drug use and the murder of her son to dedicate her life to making a positive difference in the world.
Arielle Fernandez is a successful financial trader/educator and survivor of domestic violence. She is a former national team soccer player with a master's degree from the University of Southern California in Health Administration and a B.S. in exercise science. She shares a fantastic story of personal growth and preseverace.
Nilda Palacios is an ex-offender, domestic violence /sex assault survivor, U.C. Berkeley student, health care worker, and community activist. Her story has been featured in Mother Jones and The New York Times. Note: This podcast has some mature content on domestic violence, drugs, and sexual assaults.
Karoline Menezes is an amazing Brazilian-born musician who has played with Beyonce and Adele. Other artists include The Weekend, Andrea Bocelli, and Billy Eilish. She has also played at the Oscars and in orchestras and symphonies worldwide. She has led a fantastic life and is dedicated to giving back to the community. Listen in!
Graham Tuttle is a famous trainer and Instagram/TikTok Influencer w/over 295K fans. Please check out his IG at Thebarefootsprinter. Incredible insight about training and pursuing your passions.
Richard Figueroa Jr.-Deputy Cabinet Secretary in the Office of Gavin Newsom, where he works on health, human services, and veteran affairs. Great insight and advice on current and emerging health care issues that impact us all!
Theresa Luboviski's journey through foster care, adoption, diabetes care, and building a successful business. Theresa's story is one of grit, resilience, positivity, and hope.
Michael Melancon is a best-selling author, actor, realtor, and retired peace officer. His new book, "Why do they Hate us so much? is an Amazon best-selling book.
Jacob Brevard served 25 years in prison and now has a story of redemption and hope. Currently, he visits adult and juvenile jails and prisons throughout California, spreading a message of hope, redemption, and change. His story charts his evolution from gang life to as he says, "good citizen."
Jennifer Shaffer is the Executive Officer for the Board of Parole Hearings(for the State of California). The Board of Parole Hearings is one of the entities that oversee the parole hearing and review process for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Imani Nicole is a successful fitness model and health and wellness entrepreneur. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Spelman College and a master's degree in Social Entrepreneurship from the University of Southern California. She is also a certified therapeutic and trauma-informed breathwork practitioner. Finally, she advocates for holistic and alternative healing methods to help others manage anxiety and stress.
Silas Redd Jr.(former NFL player, fitness coach/trainer, high school coach, IG influencer/USC Trojan), and Jessie Redd( leadership professional/coach/IG influencer/USC Trojan) reflect on achieving personal and professional success.
Dr. Gallimore is a successful dentist with a life story of resilience, grit, and determination! He is one of the most successful and popular dentists in Las Vegas, Nevada, and the owner of 702/Dentist. He has a BA in economics and graduated from one of the top dental schools in the world, the University of California, San Francisco.
Leron Lee is a retired Major League Baseball player and one of the greatest foreign-born baseball players in Japanese baseball history. He played in the MLB for the Cardinals, Los Angeles, Indians, and San Diego for eight seasons. In the prime of his career, he left the MLB to play 11 seasons in Japan's professional baseball league. While in Japan, he was a four-time All-Star and four-time Best Nine Award winner. He is now a baseball coach.
Tracy Reines is the Regional Director of the International Rescue Committee and is the former Director of the International Red Cross disaster response team. Currently, she is part of a team that oversees refugee resettlement in the United States. She has spent most of her responding to disasters worldwide while working for the Red Cross as the International Response Operations Center Director.
Jason Falla is a decorated combat veteran of the Australian Defence Force who served 12 years in the Army Special Operations Command with 6 years in Australia's Tier-1 Counter-Terrorist and Special Mission Unit, the Special Air Service Regiment. His combat deployments include East Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
Catherine Casares Marino and Jasmynn Nichol are female owners of the highly regarded surf school- Sal y Sol surf school. They have one of the only female-owned surf instructor schools in Orange County, California. Amazing and inspirational life journeys. Surf lessons IG@salysolsurfschool and surf board shaping with Jasmynn Nichole@jazz.shapes
Dr. Obed Magny is a nationally recognized expert on leadership and an executive coach. He has over two decades of experience working in law enforcement and is an authority on evidence-based policing. He is an author and currently the CEO of Magny Leadership.
The Art Valdez story-An inspirational story of strength,courage and resilience. He is a DJ, a lifelong athlete, and has dedicated over 20 years to community service. This is an amazing story of pursuing your dreams, no matter the emotional or physical pain.
Jason Cabell is an acclaimed writer, actor, director, and former Navy Seal! He served 20 years in the Navy and is the writer and director of the movie "Running with the Devil." Running with the Devil "stars Nicolas Cage and Lawrence Fishburne. He has served on missions worldwide and has been to over 100 countries. He will talk about his career and his upcoming movie projects.
Part 2-Steve Maxwell is one of the world's best fitness trainers, a military veteran, and a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu legend. Today, he travels the globe training professional athletes and others on how to live a long and healthy life. Moreover, he continues to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to others while displaying love and passion for life.
Part 1-Steve Maxwell is one of the world's best fitness trainers, a military veteran, and is a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu legend. Today, he travels the globe training professional athletes and others on how to live a long and healthy life. Moreover, he continues to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to others while displaying love and passion for life.
Dominic Figueroa is a nurse (i.e., M.S.N) who traveled to Poland to aid Ukrainian refugees. He has a master's in Nursing and B.A. degree in Theology. He was recently featured on FOX and Polish news while working with Ukrainian refugees.
Marty Armendarez is a Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt joined by Keri Hawkins on the warrior mindset. Marty is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor with over 20 years of experience, retired law enforcement professional, and former MMA fighter. Keri Hawkins is a successful business owner and BJJ practitioner.
Michal Pless Jr. is a legendary Southern California surfing instructor, M & M Surf School owner(with his father Michael Pless Sr.), and Navy veteran. He has over 25 years of teaching experience and his father is known as the "Saint of Seal Beach."
Helena Goto is an expert in conflict management, negotiation, and mediation. She is an adjunct professor at the Sol Price School of Public Policy and teaches Alternative Dispute Resolution. She is the owner of Goto Solutions Consulting and had master's degree in business and dispute resolution.
Travis Stevens is a 3x Olympian, 2016 Silver Medalist in Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu black belt. In 2016, he became the third American male judoka to win a silver medal. He is a Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend and shares his secrets to becoming a champion.
Mark Schleef is a retired Navy Chief, Deep Sea Diver, and part of the Submarine rescue/escape unit. He is currently working in the same capacity for a private company with assignments around the world.
Dr. Paul Danczyk is the Director of Executive Education at the USC School of Public Policy in Sacramento. He is also an executive coach and presents in leadership and management programs for national, state, local governments and non-profit organizations.
USC Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Spatial Sciences. Research expert in cybercrimes, terrorism, homeland, and data security. Finally, he is the Director of the Information Sciences Institute at USC.
USC Professor Carol Geffner is an internationally known expert on leadership, governance, and management. Consultant with public and private organizations on large-scale change and building leadership capacity for the future. She is also the author of a forthcoming book on women and leadership.
Fabio Santos is a legendary 7th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coral belt and MMA trainer. He has trained with other legendary greats, including Helio Gracie, Carlson Gracie, Rickson Gracie,Rolls Gracie, Royce Gracie, Royler Gracie, Rorion Gracie, Pedro Sauer, Renzo Gracie, and Charles Gracie, to name just a few. Fabio also assisted Rickson with training Royce for the first UFC in history. He is also a successful business owner, fitness trainer, surfer, and avid skier. Honored to interview one of the most incredible BJJ instructors of our time.
Anthony Lucero is an award-winning film director, writer, producer, and visual effects artist. He directed the award-winning film East Side Sushi and worked on films such as Star Wars and Pirates of the Caribbean. He is also a documentarian.
Sami Reed is a successful entrepreneur, actress, poet, fitness instructor, wife, world traveler, and mom. Founder of Elevate Community Wellness.
Ryan Blair is a successful entrepreneur and has authored two 1# New York Times best-selling books. His books chronicle life lessons from his journey as an ex-offender, drug addict, and gangster to building a multi-million dollar company. Today, he devotes his life to helping people nurture their minds, body, and soul through his new company AlterCall.
Ms. Teresa Villegas was nominated by Mayor Eric Garcetti to the City of Los Angeles Board of Public Works in September 2019. She was confirmed by the City Council and currently serves as the Board liaison to the Bureau of Street Services (StreetsLA) and the City Forest Officer.
She has extensive experience working in Sacramento as a registered lobbyist and Legislative Director for the Trust for Public Land. She helped secure funding for many parks, open space projects, and water infrastructure projects.
Terrance Juwon Nichols is an Air Force Veteran, fitness trainer, and owner of Gymdorks. He has a master's degree in business and exercise science.
Terrance specializes in physical and mental toughness integration. He is a bodybuilder and is currently the Men's Physique Champion of the Muscle Beach Bodybuilding Championship. Juwon can be contacted via his email at gymdorks@gmail.com
My guest today was the host of MMA Junkie Radio, Brian "Goze" Garcia. Goze hosts one of the most popular MMA Podcasts in the world. #MMA #Motivation #MMAjunkie #Inspiration