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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!

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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