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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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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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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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