Recent Post

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.

Read More »

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.

Read More »

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.

Read More »

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!

E47 | Garrett Greco's Tampa Tales: From College Vibes to Real Estate Triumphs and the Quest for a Legacy

Garrett Greco’s Inspiring Journey: From Collegiate Fun to Real Estate Mastery

In the latest episode of Happy Hour Holidaze, hosts Sean and Manny Febre sit down with Tampa Bay’s own real estate virtuoso, Garrett Greco. Greco, known not just for his mastery in real estate but also for his deep familial ties to the city’s political scene, shares his journey from carefree college days to becoming a linchpin in the local real estate market.

Early Beginnings and Familial Influence

Garrett’s story is deeply woven with the fabric of Tampa itself. Born into a family renowned for their political involvement—his grandfather was a four-term mayor and his father a long-standing judge—Garrett’s narrative is punctuated with a profound sense of place and duty. During our conversation, he reminisces about his youth, highlighting how his familial legacy has bestowed upon him a unique perspective on business and community.

Garrett attended Florida State University, initially drawn by the vibrant college sports scene and the freedom college life offered. However, his direction shifted significantly after college, driven by a realization of the opportunities that real estate presented and a desire to do more than just participate in the family tradition of public service.

The Leap into Real Estate

Garrett candidly shares the pivotal moments that steered him toward real estate—a sector his mother had thrived in. His transition from employment to entrepreneurship is a tale of risk and reward, marked by his first nerve-wracking property flip and the strategic growth of his brokerage firm in Tampa and Sarasota. Garrett’s story is not just about financial gain but also about creating a community impact and building a sustainable business that contributes to the city’s development.

Strategic Insights and Building a Legacy

What sets this episode apart is Garrett’s detailed sharing of strategic business moves and the lessons learned along the way. He discusses the challenges of starting a brokerage, the dynamics of building a client base, and the importance of understanding market trends to make informed investment decisions.

Garrett also delves into the concept of legacy—not just the financial legacy of his business ventures, but the social impact he hopes to achieve through his work. His aim to blend business success with genuine community enhancement is both inspiring and instructive for anyone looking to make a mark in their industry.

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

No entrepreneurial journey is without its hurdles, and Garrett is open about the setbacks he faced. From economic downturns to navigating complex property deals, his resilience and ability to adapt have been tested time and again. Yet, his outlook remains overwhelmingly positive, focusing on future projects and opportunities for growth.

Looking ahead, Garrett discusses his plans to expand his real estate footprint, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one’s values and vision. His focus on not just building buildings, but also building lives and community spaces, is particularly poignant.

Conclusion: Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

This episode of Happy Hour Holidaze offers more than just a look into the life of a successful real estate developer; it serves as a blueprint for anyone aspiring to make their mark in any competitive field. Garrett’s journey underscores the importance of grounding business ambitions in personal values and community needs.

Listeners will walk away with not only a deep appreciation for what it takes to succeed in real estate but also practical strategies and personal anecdotes that underscore the power of perseverance, strategic planning, and community engagement. Join Sean and Manny Febre as they toast to Garrett’s ongoing journey and the invaluable lessons shared in this not-to-be-missed episode.

Don’t forget to follow and tune in to Happy Hour Holidaze for more engaging stories that blend business acumen with real-life wisdom and fun. Cheers to your next adventure in learning and entrepreneurship!

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email