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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!

E34 | Leaping to Livelihood: Jonathan Ruiz's Odyssey from Reality TV Warrior to Tampa Bay Real Estate Guide

Introduction

In the latest episode of “Happy Hour Holidaze,” hosts Sean and Manny Febre invite us into the thrilling world of Jonathan Ruiz, a man whose adventures stretch from the challenging obstacle courses of “American Ninja Warrior” to the wild terrains of Fiji in “Fight to Survive.” This episode is not just a conversation; it’s an expedition through the life of an individual who embodies resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

From Backyard Challenges to National Television

Jonathan’s journey into the spotlight began with a simple yet profound declaration: “I could do this.” Watching “American Ninja Warrior” sparked not just interest but action, leading him to construct his obstacle course and train relentlessly. His dedication paid off, propelling him onto the show and subsequent others like “Spartan Ultimate Team Challenge” and “Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Challenge.” Jonathan’s recounting of these experiences offers listeners a glimpse into the mindset required to not just participate but excel in these grueling competitions. It’s a testament to the power of determination and the physical and mental stamina needed to stand out among tens of thousands of applicants.

Survival in the Wilds of Fiji

However, Jonathan’s tale takes a turn from the man-made obstacles of television sets to the unpredictable challenges of nature in “Fight to Survive.” Stranded in Fiji, Jonathan faced not just physical but profound psychological battles. His story of survival—of starvation, strategic alliances, and the raw human will to persevere—is riveting. It’s a raw, unfiltered look into what it means to push oneself beyond limits, to confront the very essence of survival and resilience. This segment of the episode is not just storytelling; it’s an inspiring reflection on human strength and vulnerability.

A Love Letter to Tampa Bay

Transitioning from tales of extreme competition and survival, Jonathan shares his love for Tampa Bay, painting a vibrant picture of the city he calls home. His dual expertise as a survivor and a real estate sage offers listeners unique insights into the city’s hidden gems, from kayaking through mangrove tunnels to exploring the urban pulse of the Tampa Riverwalk. Jonathan’s passion for Tampa Bay transcends mere geography; it’s a celebration of community, a guide to the city’s best-kept secrets, and a testament to finding one’s place in the world.

The Essence of “Happy Hour Holidaze”

What sets this episode apart is how seamlessly it integrates the essence of “Happy Hour Holidaze.” Sean and Manny have crafted a platform that turns the traditional podcast experience on its head, blending humor, wisdom, and the art of storytelling into an unforgettable narrative. Jonathan’s journey from an obstacle course aficionado to a real estate expert and city enthusiast encapsulates the show’s mission: to share stories of innovation, struggle, and triumph.

A Toast to Resilience and Adventure

This episode is a reminder of the incredible capacity for resilience and the importance of embracing every chapter of one’s story. Jonathan Ruiz’s journey encourages us to face challenges head-on, whether scaling a warped wall, surviving in the wild, or navigating the complexities of real estate in a bustling city. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, a call to adventure, and a testament to the unpredictable, exhilarating journey of life.

So, raise your glass to “Happy Hour Holidaze” and the extraordinary story of Jonathan Ruiz. Here’s to the adventurers, the dreamers, and everyone in between who dares to leap, to strive, and to live fully. Cheers to new learnings, a ripple of laughter, and insightful evenings with Sean, Manny, and their inspiring guests.

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