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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

E38 | Hector Sanchez's Odyssey: From Cuban Exodus to Healthcare Hero and Real Estate Visionary

Navigating Success: The Story of Hector Sanchez

In a world where the pursuit of the American Dream often collides with hard realities, Hector Sanchez stands out as a beacon of perseverance and adaptability. Born in Cuba and later moving to Miami, Hector’s journey is a testament to the resilience required to navigate the often turbulent waters of entrepreneurship in the United States.

Hector’s story, as detailed in a recent episode of the podcast hosted by Sean Febre and Manny Febre, unfolds a narrative that is both inspiring and instructive. With a background marked by challenges and opportunities alike, Hector moved from Cuba to Miami, where he delved into the intricacies of the American healthcare and real estate industries.

The Birth of a Mental Health Center

Hector’s entrepreneurial journey began in Miami, where, against the backdrop of a bustling city known for its vibrant culture and economic opportunities, he ventured into the healthcare sector. Identifying a gap in mental health services, Hector and his team set up a mental health center designed to offer support to those in need. However, the road was far from smooth. The center faced numerous hurdles, from bureaucratic red tape to the financial strains posed by Medicaid’s complex reimbursement processes. Yet, through sheer determination and strategic thinking, Hector navigated these challenges, establishing a center that served as a much-needed resource for the community.

A Test of Resilience: COVID-19 and Beyond

The advent of COVID-19 posed unprecedented challenges for businesses worldwide, and Hector’s center was no exception. As the pandemic forced many enterprises to shut down, Hector’s center was deemed essential, allowing it to continue operations. This period highlighted the vital role of mental health services, especially during times of crisis. The center adapted quickly, leveraging telehealth to reach those confined to their homes, demonstrating the importance of flexibility and innovation in business.

Diversifying into Real Estate

Not one to rest on his laurels, Hector explored opportunities beyond healthcare, venturing into real estate. He shared insights into the world of real estate flipping, a venture that required a keen eye for potential and a willingness to take calculated risks. Through hard money loans and a network of reliable contractors, Hector undertook the arduous process of renovating properties, navigating the ups and downs of the real estate market with a strategic approach.

Lessons in Entrepreneurship

Hector’s story is more than just a narrative of personal success; it’s a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. It underscores the importance of resilience, the need for adaptability, and the value of hard work. His journey through the challenges of running a mental health center during a global pandemic, to flipping houses in a volatile real estate market, offers valuable lessons in navigating the complex landscape of American entrepreneurship.

The Road Ahead

As Hector looks to the future, his plans to franchise a physical therapy center speak to his ongoing commitment to improving healthcare accessibility. Despite the bureaucratic hurdles and financial investments required, his unwavering resolve to bring his vision to fruition is evident.

Hector’s story, as shared on the podcast, is a powerful reminder that the path to success is often paved with challenges. Yet, with determination, flexibility, and a relentless pursuit of one’s goals, overcoming these obstacles is not just possible; it’s inevitable.

Final Thoughts

In the world of entrepreneurship, stories like Hector’s are both inspiring and educational. They provide a glimpse into the realities of starting and growing a business in today’s complex economic landscape. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Hector’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.

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