Recent Post

S2 E38 | Behind the Lens: Trop’s Journey into Video Production

Step behind the camera with Trop, the 24-year-old founder of Cinewave Films who’s rapidly making his mark on Tampa’s creative scene. What began with a basic Canon camera at age 17 has evolved into a thriving videography business specializing in music videos and performance content that stands out through distinctive lighting and creative direction.

Trop walks us through his fascinating creative evolution—from his early “Wet Snap” Instagram photography days and stint as DJ Tropical to the moment he recognized his Sony A6400 could become more than just a personal creative outlet. His entrepreneurial journey contains valuable lessons about charging what you’re worth (after learning firsthand that “cheap customers are the worst”), developing a signature style, and the power of filling knowledge gaps through self-education.

The conversation takes entertaining detours through Tampa’s evolving nightlife scene, with Trop sharing his recommendations from Urban 1701 to McDitton’s, while reminiscing about how Ybor City has changed over the years. Music lovers will appreciate his breakdown of favorite artists—from Rich Homie Quan and Young Thug to Future, Chance the Rapper, and Kendrick Lamar—sparking a wider discussion about hip-hop’s evolution from NWA to today’s stars.

Read More »

S2 E37 | Beyond Beauty: How Marandan Renea Built Her Empire

When Marandan Renea picked up a brush at age six, little did she know she was taking her first steps toward a dazzling career creating iconic looks for WWE superstars, New York Fashion Week models, and brides across the country. From getting her cosmetology license in high school to establishing a thriving “concierge beauty” empire, Marandan’s journey reveals what it truly takes to succeed in the competitive world of beauty.

On this episode, Marandan pulls back the curtain on her fascinating work with WWE wrestlers like Jade Cargill, where her distinctive makeup designs (including that jaw-dropping symmetrical line down the face) have become part of wrestling history. She shares the adrenaline rush of transforming a performer’s entire look in just nine minutes backstage at Wrestlemania, proving that grace under pressure might be her greatest superpower.

But Marandan’s wisdom extends far beyond technique. She delivers candid insights about the business side of beauty – why bridesmaid drama is more common than bridezilla moments, how collaboration trumps gatekeeping for real success, and why genuine service must remain at the heart of even the most glamorous beauty brand. Her “I Touch Myself” series takes makeup beyond the surface, creating space for women to explore self-love and confidence beyond cosmetics.

Read More »

S2 E36 | Colin Biedenkapp with the Versatile Mind: Software, Music and Entrepreneurship

What happens when you combine technical brilliance with creative passion? Meet Colin Biedenkapp, a software engineering CEO who moonlights as a pianist and DJ while running a successful flight simulation company. This episode takes you on an unexpected journey through seemingly disconnected worlds that Colin navigates with remarkable fluidity.

Colin’s story begins in the isolation of rural upstate New York, where a 12-year-old with too much time and a computer discovered flight simulation. What started as simple file edits to improve existing simulators evolved organically into Invernix, a company now known for creating sophisticated aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator and infrastructure for virtual aviation communities. The serendipitous nature of his career path challenges conventional wisdom about planning and specialization.

The conversation shifts between technical discussions of flight physics and heartfelt reflections on musical expression. Colin reveals how he taught himself piano after being inspired by Billy Joel, overcoming performance anxiety to eventually become DJ Catching Lightning. His approach to music—balancing technical proficiency with emotional authenticity—mirrors his philosophy toward software development, where he values human creativity alongside technological advancement.

Read More »

Send Your Question

Got burning questions about business, entrepreneurship, or anything in between? We want to hear from you! Send us your queries, and hosts Manny and Sean Febre will answer them on an upcoming episode of Happy Hour Holidaze. Don’t miss this opportunity to get expert insights while having a great time. Simply drop us a message with your questions, and let’s dive into the world of business together!

E11 | Beyond the Mic and Into the Ice: Greg Wolf's Unscripted Journey from Local Radio to NHL Fame

Introduction

When it comes to personalities that embody the dynamism of the NHL, few can hold a candle to Greg Wolf, the electric in-game host for the Tampa Bay Lightning. From humble beginnings in Carrollwood, Florida, to the booming acoustics of NHL arenas, Greg’s journey is a tale worth telling. And that’s exactly what we did in our latest episode of Happy Hour Holidaze.

From Carrollwood to the Airwaves

Before diving into the world of sports entertainment, Greg had quite a different career trajectory. As a young adult, he worked at a pizza shop in Carrollwood with his older brother. Fate intervened during a seemingly ordinary pizza delivery to the Hooters radio show, where Greg got his first taste of radio magic.

From that point, there was no turning back. Greg switched gears, immersing himself in radio during his college years at the University of South Florida. His initial foray into radio started with internships at local stations, including the rhythmic sounds of Wild 98.7.

The Missions and Misadventures

Greg’s time as an unpaid intern was far from dull. His responsibilities included an array of errands that he transformed into adventures, almost as if out of a James Bond film. One of his most memorable exploits involved sneaking into the under-construction Raymond James Stadium, a story he tells with unmatched gusto on our episode.

But it didn’t stop there. Greg took another audacious step by trespassing into what was then known as the Ice Palace, now the Amalie Arena, the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning. These adventures, filled with adrenaline and a fair share of risk, proved to be formative experiences, shaping Greg into the daring and ever-so-entertaining figure we know today.

Finding His Voice at 620 WDAE and Beyond

Greg’s career picked up speed as he transitioned into the world of sports radio. He earned his spot at 620 WDAE, a station that served as a launchpad for his later endeavors. It wasn’t long before he was hosting his own radio show, the 3rd Leg Greg Show, adding another feather to his already brimming cap.

Conquering the NHL Arena

Greg Wolf’s career hit an all-time high when he seized the opportunity to become the in-game host for the Tampa Bay Lightning. His vivacity and sheer on-air presence breathed life into NHL events like the All-Star Game, the Winter Classic, the Heritage Game, and the Stadium Series. His story is an incredible testament to how passion, persistence, and the will to seize opportunities can catapult one into stardom, even in a field as competitive as the NHL.

Takeaways from Happy Hour Holidaze

Our time with Greg was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was a masterclass in resilience, ambition, and audacity. His unique experiences, ranging from the AM/FM wavelengths of Wild 98.7 and 620 WDAE to the electrifying atmosphere of NHL stadiums, serve as life lessons for anyone aspiring to make it big in their respective fields.

Whether you’re a fan of the NHL, an aspiring broadcaster, or just someone who appreciates an incredible journey from pizza delivery to international fame, this episode of Happy Hour Holidaze is a must-listen. So grab your favorite drink, sit back, and dive into this enlightening and entertaining experience.

Cheers! 🥂

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email