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S2 E35 | Real Estate Realities: Navigating Today’s Market with Manny Manna

Cutting through the noise of real estate misinformation, Manny Manna—a successful entrepreneur with extensive experience in property development, private equity, and lending—delivers an eye-opening assessment of today’s housing market that both novice buyers and seasoned investors need to hear.

The conversation dives deep into how social media “experts” are spreading dangerous misinformation about real estate for clicks and views, while lacking the credentials and continuing education that would validate their advice. Manny shares his professional insights on why macroeconomic factors beyond interest rates—including tariffs on building materials, logistical challenges, and policy decisions—are shaping housing affordability in ways many commentators miss.

Perhaps most shocking is the revelation that 68% of properties in Hillsborough County are investor-owned, pushing Tampa into the top 10 U.S. cities for homelessness and housing insecurity despite its economic growth. This stark contradiction between prosperity and social challenges raises profound questions about community development priorities.

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S2 E34 | Artistry Unleashed with Shi: From Songwriting at Five to Finding Her Voice

Enter the vibrant world of Artishi – a dynamic force in Tampa Bay’s creative scene who’s redefining what it means to be authentically yourself as an artist. In this captivating conversation, we dive deep into the journey of a multi-talented creator who’s been crafting words and melodies since the tender age of five.

Artishy reveals the fascinating story behind her podcast “Shi Speaks” and her mission to create what she calls “safe spaces to fix your face” – environments where people can be vulnerable, grow, and transform without judgment. Her concept of “goal friends” – supportive circles that celebrate your wins rather than competing with them – provides a refreshing perspective on building meaningful relationships in creative industries.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Artishi performs snippets of her songs “Soon” and “We Swinging,” demonstrating her versatile musical style that blends nostalgic 90s vibes with contemporary sensibilities. Her track “We Swinging” carries a powerful message beneath its catchy exterior: “As long as you’re up to bat, they can never count you out” – a mantra for perseverance that resonates throughout her work.

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S2 E33 | Alex Delgado Beyond the Uniform: A Marine’s Journey Through Entrepreneurship

What separates those who dream from those who do? Alex Delgado’s remarkable journey from Marine Corps intelligence analyst to serial entrepreneur reveals that success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning from each experience to fuel your next venture.

The serial entrepreneur, Marine veteran, and author of “The Four Fs: Seeking Self-Mastery in Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finances” takes us through his fascinating career trajectory, beginning with a doomed hip-hop clothing store in Miami. Rather than being discouraged when competing with vendors selling stolen merchandise from car trunks, Delgado extracted a valuable insight about advertising from the experience that led to his next business: marine advertising with inflatable billboards towed along Miami’s beaches. This venture flourished, attracting major clients including Miller Coors, Red Bull, and international DJs.

Throughout the conversation, Delgado reveals how military discipline shaped his approach to both business and life. While many might find balancing active Marine duty with entrepreneurship impossible, he simultaneously pursued multiple degrees—eventually earning his MBA—while launching businesses. This commitment to continuous growth reaches far beyond professional pursuits, as evidenced by his dedication to marathon running and community building through the newly-formed Oldsmar Running Club.
Born and raised in Tampa, Morgan’s athletic journey began with track and basketball before transitioning to boxing after wandering into a gym and being inspired by a young female fighter. Despite starting at the relatively late age of 28, her natural competitive fire quickly propelled her through the amateur ranks to become #3 in the country before turning professional.

Coach Moniette, her trainer and manager, doesn’t sugarcoat the brutal realities of boxing. He made Morgan study for a full year before her second amateur fight, ensuring she understood the sport’s dangers—including the approximately 13 fighters who die annually in the ring. This sobering perspective shapes their approach: “You’re not just training to win; you’re training to kill… and be willing to die.”

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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!

E30 | Alicia Harris' Inspiring Journey from Nurse to Beauty Mogul and Love's Triumph Over Adversity

Introduction:

In the realm of inspiring stories, few resonate as deeply as those that involve triumph over adversity. The latest episode of “Happy Hour Holidaze” podcast does exactly that, featuring a remarkable guest, Alicia Harris, whose journey encompasses entrepreneurship, a heartwarming love story, and a courageous battle with breast cancer.

Early Beginnings:

Born in Queens, New York, and later moving to Tampa, Alicia’s story begins with a shift from a potential career in nursing to a passionate pursuit in the beauty industry. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through as she narrates the inception of Jazzy Jewels Party, a venture that quickly became synonymous with children’s spa and party services in Tampa. This transition from nursing to entrepreneurship is not just a career change but a leap of faith – a decision to follow her heart.

A Pandemic Love Story:

The episode then takes us through Alicia’s enchanting love story with Norman, a Southern gentleman from Georgia. Their relationship, blossoming during the pandemic’s lockdown, is filled with heartwarming anecdotes, including a surprise beach proposal that garnered media attention. This tale is not just about finding love but about the serendipity and unpredictability of life.

A Battle with Breast Cancer:

However, life’s unpredictability soon took a challenging turn. Alicia opens up about her diagnosis of breast cancer during her pregnancy, a revelation that brings a sobering depth to the episode. Her narrative shifts to the trials of undergoing chemotherapy while pregnant, the emotional and physical toll it took, and the unwavering support of her family and medical team.

Creating a Legacy:

In the face of adversity, Alicia’s resilience takes a creative turn. She discusses the founding of her nonprofit, “Journey for Two,” dedicated to supporting pregnant women battling cancer. This initiative is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a testament to Alicia’s strength and her desire to transform personal pain into a platform for helping others.

Engaging Conversation:

The hosts, Manny and Sean Febre, along with guest host Janna Pena, skillfully guide the conversation, blending humor, empathy, and insightful questioning. Their approach allows Alicia to share her story in an environment that feels both intimate and empowering.

Conclusion:

This episode of “Happy Hour Holidaze” is more than just a podcast; it’s a narrative of hope, courage, and the power of the human spirit. Alicia Harris’ story is a poignant reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is light – in the love we share, the inner strength we harness, and the hope we hold for the future. It’s an episode that not only entertains but inspires and educates.

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