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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!

S2 E14 | Bone the Mack's Revealing Journey: From Unmasking Fraudulent Predators and Seeking Justice to Community Resilience, Cultural Reflections, and Sports Betting Insights

Unraveling Deception: Insights from Happy Hour Holidaze Podcast Season 2, Episode 14

In this gripping episode of Happy Hour Holidaze, hosts Sean Febre and Manny Febre welcome a multi-talented guest, Bone The Mack, for a deep dive into the chilling realities of scams, the pursuit of justice, and the exhilarating highs of sports betting. Packed with raw emotion, compelling stories, and insightful commentary, this episode offers an eye-opening exploration of human resilience, the power of community, and the pursuit of change.

The Shocking Tale of “Surviving Andre”

The centerpiece of this episode is Bone The Mack’s documentary, Surviving Andre. This poignant film chronicles the harrowing experience of NK Haynes-Williams, a psych nurse practitioner from Richmond, Virginia, who fell victim to a notorious scammer, Andre Van—a man posing as “Geppetto Jackson,” the illegitimate son of Jermaine Jackson. Through deceitful tactics and the exploitation of NK’s trust, Andre defrauded her of an astonishing $400,000.

NK joins the podcast via phone, recounting her story with heartbreaking candor. She describes how Andre manipulated her through a fake relationship with Megan Walsh, daughter of America’s Most Wanted host, John Walsh, and exploited NK’s admiration for the Walsh family. The scam started small, with requests for $10,000 to $20,000, but quickly escalated. Over six months, Andre siphoned off a total of $400,000, leaving a trail of financial and emotional devastation.

Despite Andre’s subsequent arrests, his ability to slip through legal cracks and re-offend underscores a critical flaw in the justice system. NK and Bone The Mack discuss their ongoing efforts to raise awareness, connect with other victims, and ensure that Andre is held accountable.

The Ripple Effects of Fraud: A Community on Edge

This episode dives into the broader implications of scams, particularly in vulnerable communities like Tampa, Florida. Bone and NK emphasize the importance of vigilance and community-driven action to combat fraud. They discuss the disturbing case of a veteran who lost his savings to Andre, became homeless, and tragically passed away. Stories like this highlight the devastating human cost of scams.

The hosts propose innovative solutions, including the creation of an anti-scam foundation. This nonprofit could educate the public about emerging fraud tactics and provide financial relief to victims, helping them rebuild their lives. By combining awareness campaigns with direct support, such an initiative could be a game-changer in the fight against fraudsters.

From Scams to Sports: Exploring the World of Betting

The episode takes a lighter turn as Bone The Mack shares his passion for sports betting. Known for his strategic approach, Bone recounts his journey from casual wagers to mastering platforms like DraftKings and William Hill. His cousin, a seasoned gambler, joins the conversation via phone, offering insider tips on crafting winning parlays.

Highlights from the sports betting segment include:

Bone’s biggest win: A $4,000 payout on an NFL game featuring the Philadelphia Eagles.

The art of parlays: Bone and his cousin break down the risk-reward dynamics of multi-leg bets, with examples ranging from three-leg parlays to ambitious nine-leg combinations.

Soccer betting insights: The group explores the nuances of gambling on international leagues like La Liga and the British Premier League, emphasizing the importance of research and strategy.

Community spirit: The camaraderie between Bone, his cousin, and the hosts showcases the social aspect of sports betting, turning a solitary activity into a shared passion.

Cultural Reflections: Louisiana, Mardi Gras, and More

Bone The Mack’s storytelling takes listeners on a nostalgic journey to Louisiana, where he spent summers immersed in the vibrant culture of Mardi Gras and the resilience of a post-Hurricane Katrina world. He recalls performing under the bridge during Mardi Gras the year the New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl, a moment of joy and unity for the community.

These reflections add depth to the episode, illustrating how shared experiences—whether cultural celebrations or challenges like natural disasters—shape individuals and bring communities closer together.

A Call to Action: Empowering Change

This episode of Happy Hour Holidaze is more than just a podcast; it’s a call to action. The hosts, guest, and caller discussions converge on the importance of taking proactive steps to address systemic issues. Whether through launching an anti-scam foundation, educating the public about fraud prevention, or supporting underprivileged communities, the episode emphasizes the power of collective action.

Key takeaways for listeners:

Stay vigilant: Scammers prey on trust and goodwill. Be cautious with online interactions, especially on platforms like Facebook Dating.

Support victims: Consider contributing to crowdfunding campaigns or initiatives that provide financial and emotional relief to scam victims.

Get involved: Join community efforts to raise awareness and advocate for stronger legal protections against fraud.

Why This Episode Matters

In a world increasingly shaped by digital interactions, Happy Hour Holidaze Season 2, Episode 14, offers a timely reminder of the need for awareness, empathy, and resilience. Bone The Mack’s multifaceted journey—from exposing scammers to thriving in sports betting—serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

As you listen to this episode, you’ll not only gain valuable insights into the complexities of fraud and the allure of betting but also feel inspired to contribute to positive change in your community. Whether you’re a fan of true crime stories, a budding sports bettor, or someone seeking to make a difference, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen Now

Don’t miss this riveting episode of Happy Hour Holidaze. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation. Together, we can build awareness, foster community, and create a world where justice prevails.

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