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S2 E43 | The Blase Network: Baltimore to Tampa Bay with Chris

What happens when a Baltimore podcaster visits Tampa Bay? A raw, hilarious culture clash that reveals surprising truths about American cities, sports fandom, and the entrepreneurial journey.

Chris from the Blase Network brings his Baltimore perspective to our studio, immediately diving into sports talk with passionate takes on the Ravens, Lamar Jackson, and the upcoming NFL season. But as the conversation unfolds, we explore something much deeper—the stark contrast between city experiences across America.

As a documentarian and podcaster born in what he calls “the ass crack of Baltimore,” Chris offers an unfiltered look at growing up in a city recently named America’s dirtiest for the third consecutive time. His stories about youth crime, political leadership failures, and the practical challenges of urban life paint a vivid picture rarely captured in mainstream media.

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S2 E42 | Ride with Alissa Hale: From Alabama to Florida, Alissa Hale’s Country Music Journey

Meet Alissa Hale, a rising country star who’s redefining what it means to be a modern artist. Born and raised in Alabama with a 12-year background in gymnastics and ballet, Alissa’s path to music came through an unexpected intersection of talent, determination, and a mother who believed in her enough to talk her up to a music producer.

During this candid conversation, Alissa gives listeners an exclusive world premiere of her upcoming single “Ride” – a bold, wild anthem for Southern girls who aren’t afraid to embrace their freedom and make no apologies for it. The track, releasing June 20th, perfectly captures her authentic country roots while bringing a fresh energy to the genre.

What makes Alissa truly unique is her innovative approach to building her brand. She’s created “Dirty Blonde,” a groundbreaking zombie video game that integrates her music into gameplay – something never before seen in country music. Players blast “deadheads” while experiencing her songs in an immersive environment, creating an entirely new way for fans to connect with her work. This creativity extends to her entrepreneurial ventures, including a hot sauce line featuring her signature blend and an upcoming ghost pepper version aptly named “Hot as Hell.”

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S2 E41 | Hard Money, Hard Lessons with Caleb Delgado

What happens when life knocks you down not once, but twice—and you find the strength to build something even better than before?

Caleb’s journey from Queens-born soccer player to mortgage mogul to nearly bankrupt and back again is a masterclass in resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Growing up in Long Island with immigrant parents, he learned early lessons contrasting wealth and struggle that would prove invaluable later in life.

His soccer skills earned him a D1 college spot playing center midfield, but family financial troubles forced him to leave school and enter the mortgage industry at just 20. The timing couldn’t have been more dramatic—the early 2000s “Boiler Room” era of mortgage lending. Within months, Caleb was making hundreds of thousands, driving luxury cars, dropping $10,000 on dinner tabs, and living what seemed like the dream. Until 2008 hit.

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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!

E25| Batting to Success: Ashlynn Rae's Exhilarating Voyage from Hairstylist to Luxury Lash Industry Tycoon

Introduction:

Welcome to the latest entry in our Happy Hour Holidaze blog, where we delve into the heartening and insightful world of entrepreneurship and personal triumph. In this post, we’re excited to unpack the pearls of wisdom shared by our special guest, Ashlynn Rae Roberts, the entrepreneurial force behind the flourishing Ashlynn Rae Lashes brand. Hosted by the vibrant duo, Sean and Manny Febre, this episode is a journey through resilience, innovation, and the power of a positive mindset.

The Genesis of a Lash Empire:

Ashlynn’s story begins in the realms of hairstyling, where her early career as a hair extension specialist in South Tampa laid the foundation for her future endeavors. She recalls the nascent days of the lash industry, a time when it was a luxury reserved for the elite. Identifying an untapped market, Ashlynn embraced the opportunity, training in lash artistry and quickly becoming a sought-after professional in the Tampa area.

Business Acumen and Expansion:

Ashlynn openly discusses the business side of her lash empire. She breaks down the financial nuances of the industry, from the pricing of initial appointments to the strategic importance of building a recurring client base. Her insights into the entrepreneurial aspects of running a lash studio are invaluable for anyone looking to break into the beauty industry.

Navigating Through COVID-19:

One of the most compelling parts of the conversation is Ashlynn’s take on the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to the downturn experienced by many industries, her business witnessed an unexpected upsurge. This segment is a masterclass in adaptability and resilience, showcasing how businesses can thrive even in the most challenging times.

The Role of Social Media:

Our hosts dive into the impact of social media in today’s business landscape. Ashlynn illustrates how platforms like Instagram have become instrumental in brand building and client engagement, enhancing her business’s visibility and contributing to its growth.

A Personal Journey of Growth and Empowerment:

More than just a business success story, Ashlynn shares her personal journey, highlighting her transformation from a teenage mother to a successful businesswoman. Her narrative is a beacon of hope and inspiration, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, authenticity, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Educating the Next Generation:

As the conversation shifts towards education and mentorship, Ashlynn expresses her passion for empowering aspiring lash artists. She discusses her plans to expand into education, aiming to nurture talent and share her knowledge and experience with those eager to enter the industry.

Closing Thoughts:

The episode concludes with Ashlynn offering sage advice to budding entrepreneurs and those facing personal or professional hurdles. Her story is a testament to the idea that success is not reserved for a select few but is attainable by anyone willing to embrace their authentic self and work diligently towards their goals.

Conclusion:

This episode of Happy Hour Holidaze is more than just an exploration of the lash industry; it’s a narrative of determination, innovation, and the power of a positive mindset. Ashlynn Rae Roberts’ journey is a resonant reminder that with passion, resilience, and a bit of entrepreneurial savvy, anyone can turn their dreams into reality.

Stay tuned to our blog for more inspiring stories and insights from industry leaders and change-makers. And if you haven’t already, be sure to listen to the full episode with Ashlynn Rae Roberts on Happy Hour Holidaze for a deep dive into the world of beauty entrepreneurship.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and every story shared is a chance to inspire. Here’s to your success and the many lessons we’ll learn along the way!

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