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E65 | Davy Rolando’s Dynamic Dual Careers: From Radio Stardom to Tattoo Entrepreneurship, Nightclub Innovations, and Iconic Music Moments

Davy’s story begins with his unexpected entry into the world of radio—a world he never imagined himself in. A chance encounter with a girl he met at Prana led him to a pivotal decision: pursue an unpaid internship at 94.1 or stay in his comfort zone. Choosing the former, Davy’s dedication saw him rise from street team intern to a beloved on-air personality on the Freak Show, captivating Tampa Bay listeners with his authentic, unfiltered voice for over a decade. His journey in radio wasn’t without its challenges, though. Davy shares candidly about the struggles of being the “fill-in guy,” always waiting for a permanent spot, and the patience it took to finally land a full-time position after years of grinding.

The Transition to Entrepreneurship

But radio was never Davy’s endgame. He always saw it as a stepping stone to something he could truly call his own. This episode dives deep into his transition from the airwaves to the tattoo business, where he co-founded Emphasis Tattoo in Tampa. Davy shares the calculated risks he took, starting the business two years before leaving radio and navigating the challenges of opening just before the COVID-19 pandemic shut everything down. His foresight in having six months of operating costs saved up ensured that Emphasis Tattoo survived and eventually thrived, even expanding its operations thanks to the good graces of a landlord impressed by Davy’s business acumen.

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E64 | Christian Pena’s DJ Domination: From Teen Passion to Music Industry Icon, Radio Innovations, and Club DJing Challenges

The Birth of a DJ: Christian takes us back to where it all began—his love for music sparked at age 16 when he discovered the art of DJing. He recounts his relentless pursuit to land a spot on WTMP’s urban radio lineup, battling challenges like performing live without modern tech aids and overcoming age-related setbacks in the club scene. His journey from mixing tapes in his room to becoming a sought-after DJ is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
Life on the Edge: Christian dives into the contrasting worlds of entrepreneurship and traditional jobs, exploring the leadership and sacrifices required to build a career from scratch. He shares his experiences of juggling the uncertainty of entrepreneurial life with the false security that often comes with a 9-to-5 job. Through his story, listeners gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to step out of the comfort zone and chase their dreams.

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E63 | CJ Holland’s Golfing Greatness: From Baseball Beginnings, Junior Tour Dominance, to College Aspirations

What does it take for a young athlete to transition seamlessly from one sport to another while becoming a dominant force in the world of junior golf? In this insightful and inspiring episode of *Happy Hour Holidaze*, hosts Sean and Manny Febre sit down with CJ Holland, a rising star who’s taking the junior golf scene by storm. At just 15 years old, CJ has already achieved remarkable success, ranking 31st on the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour and earning accolades as one of the top young golfers in his district.

CJ’s journey began at the age of two, when he first picked up a plastic club and started swinging away in his backyard. Supported by his family, particularly his father and grandfather, CJ’s passion for golf grew as he spent time on the putting greens and golf courses near his grandparents’ home. His story took a pivotal turn in eighth grade when he made the bold decision to leave baseball behind—despite excelling as a Little League All-Star—to focus entirely on golf. Since then, his game has evolved dramatically, earning him multiple top finishes in highly competitive tournaments.

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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!

E13 | Valor and Ventures: Brian Gordon’s Path from Marine to Maverick

Defending Dreams: A Deep Dive into Brian Gordon’s Lifelong Mission

As we turn the pages of human stories, some stand out with colors so vivid, they paint an indelible mark on our minds. In Episode 13 of the acclaimed *Happy Hour Holidaze* podcast, we were graced with such a tale – the life journey of Brian Gordon.

From Bradenton’s Streets to Football Feats

Brian’s story begins in the small suburb of Bradenton. Picture a young boy facing more challenges than most of us could fathom. Amidst the chaos of a turbulent childhood, Brian became the shield for his family and friends. This protective instinct, deeply ingrained from a young age, found an outlet on the football field. As he excelled in positions of OLB and DE in high school, Brian displayed agility, strategy, and leadership, heralding the champion he was destined to become.

A Marine’s Calling

Brian’s journey took a transformative turn when he enlisted in the U.S. Marines. Here, the values of honor, courage, and commitment were sculpted into his very being. His experiences, combined with his innate protective nature, led him to a profound realization: in our ever-changing world, defense is not just about warfare but also about personal and societal protection.

The Birth of Tactical Society

This realization materialized into Brian’s venture, Tactical Society. Delving into its core, we find a veteran-owned business specializing in security services, firearm instruction, and top-tier tactical supplies. Tactical Society stands as a beacon for those who seek the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The Interplay of Guns & Gars

But there’s another dimension to Brian – a confluence of passion for firearms with a love for cigars. His enterprise, Guns & Gars, embodies this unique combination. The highlight? The 2nd Amendment Cigar Collection. Each cigar in this line serves as a fragrant ode to freedom, becoming an aromatic symbol of liberty.

A Personal Crusade

Yet, behind the businesses and success lies a personal tragedy. The loss of Brian’s brother, Vernon Gordon, served as a haunting reminder of the world’s unpredictability. It fueled Brian’s mission, making him an advocate for responsible firearm ownership. His perspective? Equip individuals with knowledge, ensuring they never face a situation unprepared.

A Heart That Gives

Even with a bustling entrepreneurial life, Brian’s altruism shines bright. His foundations, G.E.R.M. and OTS4VETS, are embodiments of his commitment to give back. The former assists underprivileged kids in their academic pursuits, while the latter aids veterans in seamlessly transitioning back to civilian life.

In Conclusion

Brian Gordon’s life, as showcased in *Happy Hour Holidaze*, is a symphony of struggles, triumphs, and unwavering dedication. His journey serves as a poignant reminder that from adversity can arise a mission that not only uplifts one’s life but also leaves an indelible impact on the community.

For those who missed this riveting episode, it’s time to plug in those headphones. Dive deep into a narrative that promises to be both enlightening and deeply moving. Brian Gordon’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to defend, to create, and most importantly, to give back. 🌟🎧🥂

Event: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Tampa/TheVeteransRun

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