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S2 E27 | DJ Qeys Beyond the Beat: A Conversation with Tampa’s Luxury DJ

From turntables at age four to festival stages across the country, DJ Keys brings us behind the curtain of his remarkable journey in music. Growing up as the son of DJ Smooth (who learned from Curtis Blow’s DJ), Keys was destined for a life in sound—but it was his own unique path that transformed him from a curious kid to one of Tampa’s most respected turntablists.

The documentary “Scratch” changed everything for Keys, shifting his focus from party rocking to the technical artistry of turntablism. He takes us through his evolution—from DMC battles against DJ Slurp to forming the band Samurai Shotgun and touring globally with alternative hip-hop sounds. His memories of Old Dirty Sundays at Crowbar capture a golden era in Tampa’s music scene, where true DJ skills were not just appreciated but celebrated.

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S2 E26 | Dream Chasers: Turning Passion into Profit with Melissa Horne

Melissa Horne didn’t set out to become a real estate powerhouse. Growing up in Queens, she found her first success in Manhattan’s nightlife, managing the legendary Comedy Cellar where comedy icons like Kevin Hart cut their teeth. The bustling downtown scene taught her invaluable lessons about human psychology and influence – “there’s nothing like a 5am drunk in downtown that you really learn the depths of humanity and how to control them.”

When motherhood at 29 forced a career pivot, Melissa discovered talents she never knew she possessed. Returning to college as an adult student opened her eyes to possibilities beyond the nightclub doors. “I was always that kid that had a ton of potential and I wasn’t sure when it was going to come out,” she reflects. That potential first manifested in a dumpster company she built with her partner – a venture that proved both educational and challenging in New York’s byzantine regulatory landscape.

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S2 E25 | The Chris Walter’s Story. Coffee, Wine, and Chori-Pans: A Journey of Flavor and Friendship

Welcome to the latest episode of Happy Hour Holidays, where we explore the fascinating journey of Chris Walters, the visionary behind Tango Brew—a unique coffee and wine bar! This episode dives into Chris’s childhood, his passion for entrepreneurship, and the challenges he faced turning his dreams into a thriving business. We’re not just serving drinks; Tango Brew aims to create a vibrant community space that features artisanal coffees, Argentinian tapas, and a welcoming atmosphere where friends can gather and share experiences.
Join us as we discuss the real-world challenges of starting a business, including construction delays and the importance of effective communication with partners and contractors. Hear Chris’s insights on resilience, patience, and the power of teamwork in the entrepreneurial journey. With an exciting monthly events calendar in the pipeline, Tango Brew is poised to be the go-to destination for locals seeking quality, culture, and connection.
By the end of the episode, you’ll be inspired by the determination and passion that Chris embodies, making it clear that pursuing dreams often requires overcoming obstacles along the way. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on social media for updates on the grand opening and more!

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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!

E19 | From Pageant Queen to Psychology Guru: Gina Pena's Insightful Expedition into Mental Health and Social Media Impact

Embracing Resilience and Authenticity: Key Takeaways from a Dynamic Conversation with Dr. Gina and Reggie “Regulator” Pena

In the latest episode of our podcast, we delved into a discussion that was as enlightening as it was invigorating, featuring two individuals who have harnessed the power of the mind and spirit to guide others through life’s multifaceted challenges. Dr. Gina Pena, with her background in psychology, and Reggie Pena, a seasoned MMA instructor, shared their insights on mental well-being, physical health, and the intricate dance between the two.

Mindfulness: A Modern Antidote to Distraction

Dr. Gina, or Dr. Love, as she’s affectionately called, spoke passionately about the importance of mindfulness in a world inundated with digital distractions and superficial engagements. Her advice was clear and potent: life is fleeting, and it is paramount to savor the present moment. By encouraging us to filter out the incessant noise of negativity, she advocates for a life led with intentionality, punctuated by moments of positive reflection at both the start and end of each day. This strategy, according to Dr. Gina, is akin to setting up ‘bookends’ that hold together the story of our lives with positivity and purpose.

The Journey to Mental Fortitude

A particularly striking moment in the podcast came from Reggie Pena. Known as “Regulator” in the fighting community, Reggie transcended the stereotypes often associated with combat sports to offer a vulnerable perspective on masculinity and mental health. His candid admission that men often grapple with seeking help, hindered by ego and societal expectations, underscored a broader societal issue. His encouragement for individuals, especially men, to seek help when needed was a powerful reminder that strength truly comes from facing our inner battles with honesty and courage.

A Unified Message of Empowerment

Both Gina and Reggie shared more than just their last names; they shared a common thread in their life philosophies—empowerment through self-care and community support. Whether it’s through Dr. Gina’s psychological services or Reggie’s physical training, they emphasized the value in taking the step to improve oneself. They both provided accessible avenues for listeners to reach out, whether for mental health support or physical training, via their respective online platforms.

The Takeaway: Life’s Bookends of Positivity

The episode transcended a typical interview format, evolving into a heartfelt exchange of personal philosophies and life experiences. Listeners were treated to an almost tangibly warm atmosphere where wisdom was imparted through personal anecdotes and professional expertise. Sean and Manny Febre facilitated this exchange with a deft touch, allowing the guests’ narratives to resonate powerfully with the audience.

In crafting this blog post, it was important to capture the essence of the conversation, which was not just about advocating for mental health awareness or physical fitness. It was a larger call to action for all individuals to recognize their inner strength, to face life’s adversities with resilience, and to understand that seeking assistance is not a defeat but a strategic move towards victory in life’s complex battles.

This podcast episode serves as a beacon for those seeking to find balance and purpose. It’s a compelling reminder that life, in all its unpredictability, can be navigated with grace when we are anchored by a strong sense of self and community.

For those who missed the live broadcast, the invitation stands to listen to the full episode, to connect with the profound messages shared, and to carry forward the spirit of resilience and authenticity championed by our esteemed guests.

And so, as we conclude, we extend the mantra of our hosts: “Remember, you can do anything you put your mind to.” In this spirit, we encourage our readers to not just consume content passively but to actively engage with it, reflect upon it, and let it fuel their journey towards a happier, healthier life.

Engage with us further by liking, commenting, and subscribing to our podcast, Happy Hour Holidays. Stay tuned for more enriching content that strives to explore the vast landscape of human potential and the art of living meaningfully.

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