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What does it take to build a brand that’s global, rooted, and unmistakably you?

In this episode of Breaking the Mold, I sit down with Raj Kotecha — global brand strategist and founder of Creative Content Agency — whose clients include Gary Vee, Tony Robbins, Steven Bartlett, and the Dubai Future Foundation.

We talk about identity, influence, and building a brand that cuts through the noise in 2025.

Highlights:
• Why “being Indian is like winning the lottery”
• The generational playbook behind brown excellence
• Raj’s season of sleeping on a mattress—with a Mercedes parked outside
• Why most people will never be seen
• How to become your own mini McKinsey
• The real meaning of credibility in a global market

If you're a creator, founder, or someone stepping into a new chapter — this one’s going to stay with you.

—

🎙 Connect with Raj Kotecha:
Website: www.rajkotecha.com
Instagram: @rajkotecha
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rajkotecha

🎧 Follow Breaking the Mold:
Host: @alysascanzano
Podcast IG: @breakingthemoldpod

🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold
Host: @alysa_scanzano
Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod
TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod

🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold

🔗 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📝 Something new is coming. Hold a spot on the newsletter: substack.com/@alysascanzano

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How do you break free from a toxic relationship? How do you recognize the warning signs before it’s too late? In this deeply insightful episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Blake to uncover the truth about narcissistic behaviors, emotional manipulation, and the journey to healing.

If you’ve ever found yourself questioning someone’s intentions, feeling stuck in a cycle of confusion and self-doubt, or wondering why a relationship doesn’t feel right, this conversation is for you. Dr. Blake shares her expertise on narcissistic traits—like love bombing, breadcrumbing, and trauma bonding—and explains how these behaviors take root and impact relationships.

Together, we’ll explore:

• The signs of narcissistic personality traits and how to spot them
• Why narcissists struggle with empathy and how they maintain control
• The difference between narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder
• Trauma responses like dissociation and the “fawn” response—and how they show up in relationships
• Strategies to protect yourself, set boundaries, and rebuild your life after toxic relationships

This episode is more than just an exploration of narcissism. It’s a practical guide to understanding the patterns that keep us stuck and the steps we can take to create healthier, more fulfilling connections. Whether you’re recovering from narcissistic abuse, supporting someone who is, or reflecting on your own past relationships, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Follow the Podcast @breakingthemoldpod
Blake Psychology

🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold
Host: @alysa_scanzano
Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod
TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod

🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold

🔗 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📝 Something new is coming. Hold a spot on the newsletter: substack.com/@alysascanzano

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Imposter syndrome is a challenge nearly every creative faces at some point. In this candid and empowering episode, we dive deep into the heart of self-doubt, exploring the struggles of questioning your abilities while striving to find your true voice in a competitive industry.

Join the conversation as we unpack:

• The truth about imposter syndrome in the creative world
• Personal stories of self-doubt and resilience
• Why feeling like an impostor might mean you’re growing
• Practical strategies for building confidence without losing authenticity

Whether you’re an artist, filmmaker, or creative professional, this episode provides actionable insights on navigating the ups and downs of the creative journey. Discover how embracing vulnerability can become your superpower and why forming genuine connections with others is more impactful than chasing perfection.

This episode is perfect for anyone who's ever doubted their talent, questioned their worth, or wondered if they truly belong in their field. Get ready to turn self-doubt into strength and find success on your terms.

🎧 Tune in now to feel inspired, gain clarity, and take your next creative step with confidence.

Creativity #ImposterSyndrome #SelfDevelopment #FilmmakingJourney #Authenticity #OvercomingDoubt

🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold
Host: @alysa_scanzano
Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod
TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod

🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold

🔗 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📝 Something new is coming. Hold a spot on the newsletter: substack.com/@alysascanzano

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🎉 Excited to bring you an inspiring episode with the legendary Cory Shapiro, founder of Vintage Frames Company! 🚀 This conversation dives deep into why staying true to your values is essential, and how you can achieve success without compromising on authenticity.

In this episode, Cory shares:

• Real insights on staying grounded and embracing success on your own terms 💪
• Why rejecting societal norms can fuel a fulfilling and unique journey 🌟
• Balancing artistic expression with business goals while staying true to yourself 🎨
• Personal stories on overcoming obstacles and building unshakeable confidence 📖
• How luxury can be accessible without sacrificing style and substance 💎

Cory’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and authenticity. His candid insights offer powerful lessons on self-care, mental health, and building a life that aligns with your core values.

👉 Don’t miss out! Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Key Topics Discussed:

• Cory’s experience at LaSalle College
• Montreal’s cultural influence
• The 18-year history of Vintage Frames Company
• The importance of confidence in success
• Working with celebrity clients and developing unique marketing strategies
• Embracing humility: no one is above or below you
• Opening a barbershop and its significance
• The innovative Vintage Frames business model
• Understanding and controlling commodity value
• The 'Air Force One' method in business
• Best deals and transactions in his career
• Living out childhood dreams and cultivating confidence
• Disconnecting from external validation
• Redefining success and avoiding false ideologies
• Breaking the mold and charting your own path

Cory’s story is packed with wisdom for anyone on a creative or personal growth journey. Tune in to learn how to break the mold and embrace success, authentically.

Follow Us:
[Instagram] | [YouTube] |

Connect with Cory:
Instagram: [@Vintage Frames]

Support the Show:

• Subscribe and leave a review on [Apple Podcasts] and [Spotify]
• Share this episode on social media with #BreakingTheMold

🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold
Host: @alysa_scanzano
Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod
TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod

🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold

🔗 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📝 Something new is coming. Hold a spot on the newsletter: substack.com/@alysascanzano

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In this powerful episode of Breaking the Mold, we sit down with Adonis Harrison Jr.—a fitness trainer, U.S. Air Force veteran, and resilient leader—to uncover the transformative power of embracing change and redefining life’s expectations. Adonis opens up about key moments that shaped his journey, from balancing a demanding athletic career with personal growth to confronting mental health challenges and societal pressures.

Together, we delve into the mental and emotional strength required in the fitness world, the art of avoiding overtraining, and what it truly means to adapt when life throws you off course. Adonis shares valuable insights on overcoming analysis paralysis and embracing decisive action, helping you unlock potential you may not even realize exists.

What You’ll Learn:

• Strategies for preventing overtraining and staying resilient 💪
• How Adonis’s father influenced his journey from baseball to football ⚾️
• The impact of societal expectations on personal choices 💭
• Building mental resilience and seeking support for mental well-being 💬
• Insights on navigating career pivots and embracing change 💡

Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone looking to redefine success, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, adaptability, and the constant pursuit of growth.

Chapters: 0:35 – Overtraining and Injury Prevention
4:22 – Transitioning from Baseball to Football
8:35 – Embracing New Career Paths
13:02 – Overcoming Fear of Judgment
17:26 – Dreaming of Gym Ownership
21:48 – Breaking Through Analysis Paralysis
…and much more.

Join us on this journey of personal evolution and learn how to embrace life’s pivots and break the mold.

Follow Us: [Instagram] | [YouTube] |

Connect with Adonis:
Instagram: [@AdonisHarrisonJr]

Support the Show:

• Subscribe and leave a review on [Apple Podcasts] and [Spotify]
• Share this episode on social media with #BreakingTheMold

🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold
Host: @alysa_scanzano
Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod
TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod

🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold

🔗 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📝 Something new is coming. Hold a spot on the newsletter: substack.com/@alysascanzano

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Welcome back to the Breaking the Mold podcast!

Today, I’m excited to be speaking with actress, writer, and producer Andria B. Langston.

In this episode, we explore:

• The business of acting
• An inside look at Andria's journey
• The essential mindsets needed
• Practical tips for newcomers

When I moved to LA, I struggled to find honest information about what pursuing this dream truly entails—not just the highlight reels on Instagram or interviews with A-list celebrities, but the real, day-to-day grind and insights.

We also delve into topics such as:

• 💛 Self-worth
• 💛 The law of detachment
• 💛 Applying discernment
• 💛 Accountability and making decisions in the face of fear
• 💛 Self-discovery through psychedelics

And so much more!

About our guest:
Andria B. Langston is a talented actress, writer, and producer known for her versatile roles and captivating storytelling. With years of experience in the entertainment industry, she brings invaluable insights and advice for aspiring actors. Andria has also recently released a new book, "Me Time: A Self Love & Accountability Journal," co-authored with Kismet Star. This journal is a transformative guide designed to help you recognize and break free from old patterns, embrace growth, and practice self-love and accountability. It's a must-read for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their life.

Follow Andria on Instagram: @themitochandria

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite streaming platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and bring you more incredible guests!

Follow on social media:

• Instagram: @BreakingTheMoldPodcast

Follow me, Alysa, on Instagram: @alysa_scanzano

Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

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Welcome back to breaking the mold podcast, the show where I speak to artists and creative entrepreneurs that broke the mold and built a life on their own terms.

Today im speaking to a podcast host i looked up to way before i started my own. Levi ozzy the host of Creative Ambiance. A show that highlights creatives in Los Angeles with the goal of sharing codes through conversation.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Breaking the mold on traditional networking. And moving from a transactional mindset to a relational one.
• Building your brand and letting it evolve
• Reinventing yourself

And so much more.

Thank you so much for being here. I can’t wait to hear what you think.

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Today, I’m talking to my friend Bantu. He’s from Zimbabwe, based in LA. He’s a singer, producer, writer, and Grammy nominee. He’s written and produced for people like ASAP Rocky, Chris Brown, and French Montana. He has a Grammy nominated song with Nicki Manij, which also a part of the animated Spider-Man movie. He has placements in FiFA, fast and furious, and the list goes on with the things he’s been able to achieve.

But the title of this episode is based on mindset because it’s truly what this all really stems from. And Bantu is adamant about that.

In this episode, we talk about how growing up with a mother who’s a cognitive behavioral coach trained him to eliminate negativity and self-doubt from a young age.

We talk about the subconscious mind, maximizing creativity with limited resources, effective decision-making, and more.

I’m honored you are here for another episode. Thank you.

Follow Bantu
Breaking the Mold Podcast

And me :)

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Allison Bagg is a sound healer, breathwork facilitator, intuitive guide, and artist based in Los Angeles. She utilizes many modalities to help clients penetrate their bodies, establish strong boundaries, and open portals to the magic and abundance within.

That was a description I found of Allison in one of the many article write-ups about her, and I just loved the way they encapsulated what she does along with some of her magical essence.

Allison is one of LA's leading sound bath facilitators, and that’s how I found her. Sound healing and sound baths are something that I’m still new to but that I deeply resonate with and believe in. I’m excited to take part in sharing her wisdom about:

• Breathwork
• Healing through sound
• The power of grief

To name a few 🌠

See more from Allison on Instagram.

Follow Breaking the Mold Podcast <3

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North Carolina-born, LA-based Shep is an artist who “creates a compilation of stories. These are tales of cultural pain, paint strokes channeling beauty we see daily, with colors reflecting the human and spiritual experience.”

Known for his murals of Salvador Dali, Rihanna, and the late Kobe Bryant, Shep defies the odds of what society told us was possible by creating his own life and lane through his art.

In this episode, we touch on ideas like:

• Perfectionism
• Observing if something is an obstacle or misalignment
• His view on talent
• Relearning how to be happy while creating
• Tips for artists
• The role of spirituality in what you create

See Shep’s work and follow his journey @stvteoftheart
Check out his murals, prints, and apparel on his website
Follow the podcast @breakingthemoldpod
And follow me @alysa_scanzanno :)

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I am so excited to share this episode with the one and only Tess Trotter. As best friends and business partners, this one is special. We dive into the inner workings of goal setting, habits, and systems for life and business.

This episode was inspired by the book Atomic Habits, our takeaways, and the motivation behind the daily planner we created, The Dream Maker Planner.

Tess Trotter
Alysa Scanzano

Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod

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Hayley Gene Penner is a singer-songwriter and author of the book “People You Follow,” a memoir she wrote documenting the inner workings and experience pursuing music in LA.

Along with putting out her albums, she’s also written and created songs with some of my absolute favorite artists like @SabrinaClaudio, @AlinaBaraz, and @SineadHarnett.

And to give you further insight into her memoir “ “People You Follow”, people like @lenadunham described it as:

“ A fucked up Alice in Wonderland journey down the rabbit hole of LA’s most subtly toxic industry, and it’s also funny. Brilliant, coy, playful and wise.

I didn’t fully understand that comparison until I read it for myself, but what a trip she brings you along for.

I’m such a fan of Hayley's work and approach to life. The lessons she’s learned can apply to all of us. And I hope this episode resonates with you the way it did with me. ☺️🎶

Follow Hayley’s journey @hayleygenepenner

Links to her music and book

Breaking the Mold Podcast @breakingthemoldpod

Host alysa_scanzano

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Rubina Bernabe is a true example of what it means to live authentically and challenge the norm. In our conversation, Rubina opens up about her path to self-love and how she’s woven her passion for travel into her life and professional journey.

Rubina reflects on her transition from traditional career expectations to carving out a path that's uniquely hers. We explore her film work, commitment to inspiring others through self-growth workshops, and her approach to living life outside of society's boxes.

Follow the podcast @breakingtheoldpod

Rubina Bernabe @withrubina

And mine :) @alysa_scanzano

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Will Nichols is an artist and creative entrepreneur. Having made his name in photography, fine art, Web3, furniture space, and much more.

The best way to describe him, and the first hook that intrigued me, is he’s someone who “makes ideas come to fruition no matter the industry or medium.” A simple sentence. But a life and creative philosophy that holds so much weight.

Will is an amazing example of someone who refuses to live within the boxes.  And I'm excited to share this episode. Will gets into:

• The importance of betting on yourself
• The process and risk of change
• Why and When It’s Important to own your IP
• Ai, Web3 and NFTs

Follow Will on Instagram  @WillNichols
His furniture company Human Age Design Studio 
His NFT collection Weather Report

Follow Breaking the Mold podcast @breakingthemoldpod
And follow me :)   @alysa_scanzano

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In this episode, I talk to Ani B. She’s the co-host of the new but fast-growing podcast In Flow.

Ani started her podcast this year in January 2023 and has almost 70k followers on TikTok. Some videos get more than a million views. But the most impressive thing about it is her commitment, consistency, and belief in her vision.

I know firsthand how hard putting together a podcast can be when trying to do as much as possible on your own. But Ani made her decision and committed to the process; her growth proves that. Her videos talk about different angles of self-belief, self-love, and spirituality. And she’s the first I’ve seen set up a two-person podcast where they speak directly to their audience by looking into the camera. It’s intimate and impactful, and the messages have wisdom beyond her years.

You’ll hear throughout the episode me trying to figure out where she collected all these insights and wisdom, and her answer is “turning in.” This plays into the concept of her show, “In Flow.” We talk about:

• Accessing your subconscious and how to protect what you impose on it
• Explaining the masculine and feminine energy we all have and how to tap into the “divine” versions of each
• Challenging the concept of competition and how that leans into a scarcity mindset
• Concept of the “ wounded feminine” and how to heal
• How to make choices through the feelings in your body rather than your mind

This is one of the first episodes I did where I had no intention of asking about business. Or strategies on how to build professionally. I truly wanted to have an open discussion about mindsets and learn more about her perspectives. I would love to hear if you got any takeaways from this episode. And I’m always excited and hoping to open a dialog. So if anything comes up, or sparks an idea, let me know.

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In this episode, I talk to Ani B. She’s the co-host of the new but fast-growing podcast In Flow.

Ani started her podcast this year in January 2023 and has almost 70k followers on TikTok. Some videos get more than a million views. But the most impressive thing about it is her commitment, consistency, and belief in her vision.

I know firsthand how hard putting together a podcast can be when trying to do as much as possible on your own. But Ani made her decision and committed to the process; her growth proves that. Her videos talk about different angles of self-belief, self-love, and spirituality. And she’s the first I’ve seen set up a two-person podcast where they speak directly to their audience by looking into the camera. It’s intimate and impactful, and the messages have wisdom beyond her years.

You’ll hear throughout the episode me trying to figure out where she collected all these insights and wisdom, and her answer is “turning in.” This plays into the concept of her show, “ in Flow.” We talk about:

Accessing your subconscious and how to protect what you impose on it

Explaining the masculine and feminine energy we all have and how to tap into the “divine” versions of each

Challenging the concept of competition and how that leans into a scarcity mindset

Concept of the “ wounded feminine” and how to heal

How to make choices through the feelings in your body rather than your mind

This is one of the first episodes I did where I had no intention of asking about business. Or strategies on how to build professionally. I truly wanted to have an open discussion about mindsets and learn more about her perspectives. I would love to hear if you got any takeaways from this episode. And I’m always excited and hoping to open a dialog. So if anything comes up, or sparks an idea, let me know.

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Iman Benet is a Culinary Artist, Writer, and Human Rights Activist. 

In this episode, we talk about: 

Healing and raising your vibration through food 

Tuning and listening to your intuition 

How changing your environment can change your life

How rest and a calm nervous system is the revolution

Iman curates and cooks for intimate dinners in LA that give back, give a farmer a seat at the table, and create a space for community and connection, all while tasting food that contributes to healing from within.

Sign up for your seat at Iman’s table on Ritual. And let me know what you think of this episode by connecting with me on @breakingthemoldpod. 🧡

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@createdbyeyes is a director, photographer, musician, owner of the LA-based agency @hueperiod, @sacredsmokeincense, and overall creative. 

I was excited to speak to Carrington because he’s one of the few people I know who doesn’t hold back when executing on his dreams. I’ve seen him think of something one day and execute it the next.  

Being someone who can take years ( this podcast as example) to build up the courage and confidence to execute on a dream I have, I really wanted to have this conversation to hear about his journey and mindset when it comes to going after the life you want. 

Some highlights include: 

🌟His goal is to make people feel better about the creative process, “it's not a failure; this is development and process in the making.” 

🌟Concept of legacy 

🌟Losing your inner child 

🌟Creative revolution 

Thank you for tuning back in 🙏I appreciate your attention! And would love to know what you think 💚

Follow for more @breakingthemoldpodcast

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In this episode, I’m talking to my best friend, Tess Trotter. Tess is the founder and CEO of CEP Communications. A creative marketing agency that focuses on social media marketing, branding, and all things that facilitate creative online marketing.

She founded the company in 2016 after getting fired from her corporate job. While the business has grown exponentially over the years, her original motivation was just to create enough income to support her pursuit of an acting career.  

In this episode, Tess talks about her journey from Georgetown University to her first corporate job, working for herself, the struggles of pursuing her dream in acting, and the triumphs she’s made along the way. 

Thank you for listening! 

Check out Tess’s profile on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tess.trotter/

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Lilianna Wilde is a singer-songwriter. Based in LA and from Toronto, Lillanna has a really interesting and inspiring story. 

Originally going to business school and determined to do something entrepreneurial, making the switch to pursue something creative meant having a business plan and strategic approach to all facets, including branding, marketing, and outreach herself. 

Lilliana gets honest about the failures she experienced trying out different fields before she landed on music, including film school, fashion school, and acting. 

Highlights of this episode include: 

• The one essential ingredient to creating good music
• Her thoughts on being independent vs getting signed
• Going viral and monetizing on TikTok and YouTube
• Revenue sources for independent artists including Film, TV syncs, and streaming
• Missing your chances because you're worried about how you’ll be perceived
• Past lives

I truly loved having this conversation, and I would love to hear if you liked it too. 

Follow Lilliana: https://www.instagram.com/liliannawilde/

Follow Breaking the Mold podcast for more :) https://www.instagram.com/breakingthemoldpodcast/

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In this episode, I got to speak to entrepreneur and founder of Popular Demand, Blake Ricciardi. 

Some of the things we go over in this episode include:

• Not attaching your identity to your hustle when you’re building
• How to make people care about your product/business
• The nature of entrepreneurship

Follow Blake's journey @blakericciardi

Breaking the Mold Podcast

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Thalia Ayres Randolph is a Toronto-born, LA-based multidisciplinary healer specializing in meditation, sound healing, reiki, yoga, EOL doula, and spiritual mentorship. 

Since beginning her journey into this space in 2013, Thalia has grown a robust client list known for working with celebrity clientele and being featured on CNN, ABC, FOX, and Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

If you look into Thalia’s background, you’ll realize there’s a consistent message she stands behind and is trying to spread, “ to ignite seeds of light within the hearts of every living being.” And I think that episode is another testament to that. 

Some highlights include: 

• Breaking through and reframing expectations
• Cultivating states of being
• Her thoughts on visualization and manifesting
• How our biology becomes our biography and how by healing ourselves, we can heal future generations

Follow Thalia's journey on Instagram.

Visit her website for more information on her sessions and events: www.ayresnouveau.com.

Follow the Breaking the Mold podcast for more. 

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Kevin Ross is an American Muay Thai fighter and kickboxer who’s also competed in professional boxing, shootboxing, MMA, San Shou, and held the title of Bellator’s kickboxing featherweight world champion.

He's the former Inaugural Bellator Kickboxing Featherweight (145 pounds) world champion, WMC super lightweight (140 pounds) intercontinental champion, Super lightweight (140 pounds) WBC International championship Title, the Welterweight (147 pounds) WBC USA National championship Title, the FIDAM Welterweight (147) championship of Mexico and the United States Muay Thai Federation super lightweight (140 pounds) champion.

I first heard Kevin speak when he was on Joe Rogan’s podcast. I don’t generally click on the episodes that feature fighters assuming they'll be speaking about subjects I wouldn’t really relate to. But for some reason, on this day, I clicked on Kevin’s episode and was immediately struck by the depth and topics they were discussing when it came to choosing a life path.

Kevin described his struggle with alcoholism at a young age and lacking direction in life. Not knowing what he wanted to do, or if anything at all, but knowing he didn't want to follow what he called “ the conveyor belt” most people get stuck on—the structure of society and the expectations that a lot of people unconsciously end up following.

He expressed the exact frustrations I've felt and the motivator behind putting together a podcast called "Breaking the Mold."

Here are some of the highlights from our episode:

• The realities and inconsistency in a fighting career
• Breaking the boxes that society encourages us to go in, other avenues to success, and letting go of timelines.
• Depression and lacking clear direction: we discuss how success stories don't highlight the dark times people can go through when they’re trying to figure things out
• Fear and resistance to the things you want most
• The story of losing his first fight and the mentality and decision that came out of that

I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I enjoyed having this conversation.

You can follow Kevin’s journey @dasoulassassin

Breaking the Mold Podcast
@alysa_scanzano

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In this episode, I’m talking to Nicole Azer. She is the CEO and founder of her creative agency Not Applicable LA. And she’s also the co-creator of Fine Four Now. Which is a community she developed with her best friend. And it’s a place where people come and they have discussions about books, meditations, personal growth, healing. It’s a place to be heard and to hear others and hopefully grow through the experience.

It’s actually how I found her. I was watching her Instagram lives and you’ll hear us talking about that in the episode. I was watching, I was taking notes, and just following along the journey with everybody else.

In this episode, she walks us through her experience going to college, pursuing a professional career in the corporate world and then deciding she wants to work for herself, creating this agency, creating this effort with Fine for Now.

Some highlights include:

• Claiming who you want to be
• The power of your thoughts and words
• Allowing your purpose to evolve
• Pressure and expectation of wanting to appease others
• Leaning into negative emotions to learn about yourself

Follow Nicole’s journey @ www.instagram.com/nicoleazer/

https://finefournow.com

https://notapplicablela.com

Breaking the Mold Podcast

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Chukwuma Morah, professionally known as ChuBoi, is a Presenter, Esports host, Streamer, and Social Media Influencer based in Toronto, Canada.

Chu has become the face of the FIFA & FIFA Esports in North America, hosting the eCandian Premier League while also venturing into Europe, working with the English FA and La Liga.

Chu started out working for EA SPORTS, managing the FIFA community, but since leaving, he has built an incredible social following of over 1.1 million fans. He has also developed a presenting portfolio, including hosting events for the Adidas Tango League, Presenting the FIFA Interactive World Cup Final on Sky Sports & ESPN, and working with rights holders including Manchester United, Real Madrid, Portland Timbers, and Vancouver Whitecaps.

In this episode, Chu talks about his experience at EA, his decision to quit and become an influencer and streamer, and what it takes to make it in the industry.

Some key points include:

• What to ask yourself when you're trying to figure out what you want to do in life
• The type of content and consistency you need to be a video game influencer
• How to make money on Twitch
• The 3 main things you need to be a successful streamer and what it takes to be a superstar in the space
• When it's a good time to get an agent and how to structure the deal

Follow ChuBoi @ https://www.instagram.com/chuboi/

And if you liked this episode, I would love to hear what you think in the reviews!

Thank you for listening. And feel free to follow me at alysa_scanzano as well as Breaking the Mold’s page at @breakingthemoldpodcast on Instagram.

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Matt Godek is an international artist known for his deconstructive pop art paintings, murals, sculptures, and toys. 

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why he creates the art he does
• Breaking down the meaning behind his shows (consistently sold out and exhibited in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Bangkok, and Hong Kong.)
• His new show “Discipline.”
• Art being a team effort
• Why he likes working and selling his art through galleries
• How he got started with NFT’s and his view on the industry
• The business of art
• The metaverse and what that will mean for artists
• Power of saying no
• His definition of success and happiness

Matt Gondek Website: https://mattgondek.com

Matt Gondek Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gondekdraws/

Podcast Page:  @breakingthemoldpodcast

@alysa_scanzano

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Morgan Harper Nichols is an artist and poet whose work is inspired by real-life interactions and stories.

The creator of the online store Garden24, founder of the app “Storyteller'', podcast host, musician, visual artist, and poet with an Instagram following of almost 2 million people.

Morgan is also the author of 5 books, including the WSJ Bestseller“ All Along You Were Blooming” and her latest anticipated addition, “ Peace is a Practice.” She’s also collaborated and has featured work in Target, Starbucks, Anthropologie, Athleta, Aerie, Barnes & Noble, TJ Maxx, and more.

In this episode, Morgan talks about her journey from being a college counselor to getting a record deal to gaining the attention of millions online with her poetry and artwork.

Here are some of my favorite takeaways from the episode:

• Choose one person to create for rather than trying to appeal to the masses
• Embracing yourself in your moments of transition
• How she goes about writing her books

Follow Morgan’s beautiful and heartwarming words on:

Morgan Harper Nichols Instagram Show: @breakingthemoldpodcast Host: @alysascanzano

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Andy Nguyen is a serial entrepreneur who’s made noise in various industries, including real estate, streetwear, and the food and beverage industry. But he might be most well known as the “mash-up king in the food industry, ” as described by the Food Network. Or the face and founder behind the wildly successful “ Afters Ice Cream.”

With 30 locations in Southern California, Afters Ice Cream isn’t only one of its kind in its approach to business, branding, flavors, decor, and more. They’re also a social media phenomenon, with thousands of people regularly lining up for their store openings and events.

He’s also the innovator and founder behind many other unique food concepts, including Bored & Hungry, Matte Black Coffee, Portside Fish Co, Dough and Arrow, Banh Xeo Boys, and Trill Burgers.

Anyone who’s met Andy can attest to what a kind and inspiring person he is. So when he agreed to be on the podcast, I couldn’t be any more proud to take part in sharing his story.

I initially got introduced to him by attending an event K-swiss was hosting highlighting entrepreneurs, and Andy was one of the speakers. He was there representing his non-profit, Passion Chasers. Another effort he started to help the next generation of dreamers find their own entrepreneurial spark.

It was through hearing his story of feeling out of place growing up, the pressure he felt to follow a traditional career path and the ups and downs he had to go through before finding his stride, that I knew he was a perfect fit for the message I’m trying to spread with Breaking the Mold.

The hope is that people will hear a story like his and feel inspired to follow their own path.

In this episode, he walks us through his experience growing up, the growing pains he had in school while finding his way, how he got introduced and found success in the real estate appraisal business, only to discover his heart wasn’t in it and moving on to creating his streetwear brand IMKING. As well as the story behind the discovery, growth, and success of Afters Ice Cream.

He gives incredible insights and tips on:

• Defining what it means to create something culturally relevant
• The story behind his collaborations including; and how he structures those deals
• What he suggests for someone looking to test their own food concept
• His thoughts on food halls and CloudKitchens
• What he thinks goes into having a strong brand
• The hard times that go on behind the scenes of being an entrepreneur
• His plans moving forward and his new coffee shop with artist Joshua Vides, Matte Black Coffee

Follow Andy’s journey on Instagram @andythenguyen

Show Page: @breakingthemoldpodcast
Host Page: @alysa_scanzano