Creating Connections

You want to create something more for yourself but you don't know where to start...ORYou have an idea, but you can't seem to make progress in it...If either of those are you, I hope this video finds you and helps you get past that hump.

April Monterrosa didn't wait for someone else to tell the Southside's story—she built the platform herself. As the founder of Live From The Southside, April has created more than a magazine—she's created space for pride, representation, and truth. In this episode, she shares how early lessons from her father's plumbing business shaped her entrepreneurial mindset, what it took to pivot industries, and why her work is rooted in uplifting the community that raised her. April brings wisdom, grit, and the kind of honesty that sticks with you. Follow April:

What if the key to your big-ticket business idea lies in recognizing the gaps in the spaces you're already part of and creating a solution? Businesses thrive when they provide value, and that's exactly the story behind Nailsfordayze—a scalable brand that began with a circumstance that sparked Denay's journey into nails and has grown into a hub for education, creativity, and innovation.In this episode, Denay shares how she created a simple opportunity into a promising business with big potential and how she's building her empire one step at a time. From faking it until she makes it to giving back to her community, Denay's story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of seizing opportunities.If you've ever wondered how to take your skills and turn them into something bigger, this episode is full of insights, inspiration, and practical advice to help you get started.Support/follow Denay at:IG: nailsfordayze, classfordayze, shopfordayze

What happens when a love of reading turns into a community-driven, eco-friendly brand? That's the story of Melissa Rocha, founder of Shelf Haven, a book-inspired goods and apparel store with a mission to create unique, sustainable merch for readers everywhere. From plantable bookmarks to recycled-material fanny packs for your Kindle, Melissa has found a way to merge her passions for reading, design, and environmental impact.In this episode, Melissa shares how her journey started with a reading Instagram account and evolved into a thriving business. We talk about finding identity outside of societal expectations, embracing the stress of pursuing your own vision, and turning hobbies into opportunities through the power of community. If you've ever dreamed of creating something meaningful, Melissa's story is the inspiration you need.Support Melissa's journey!Instagram: @shelfhavenWebsite: Shelfhaven.comIf you're in Cincinnati, check out Hello Clio to find Shelf Haven merch!#creatingconnectionswithmagdalena #ecofriendlybusiness #booklovermerch #entrepreneur #community

What if, instead of following the usual post-college path, you chose to build something entirely your own? That's exactly what Jordenn is doing. In her last year of college, she took a chance on NABaldie, a digital space dedicated to the growing world of zero-proof drinks. In just a year, Jordenn's created a community, collaborated with brands, and made her mark in a space that aligns with her vision—and it's only the beginning.In this episode, we dive into Jordenn's journey of building a brand that speaks to her passion, from her first social media post to her dreams of a zero-proof speakeasy. If you're ready to take a step toward your own purpose, Jordenn's story will show you how creativity and courage can bring you closer to the life you want.Support Jordenn's journey!Instagram: @nabaldie

Ever wonder if working in a startup is for you? Adrian, co-founder of Spark, is making it easier and better for you to find out.Discover how "Spark" is all about leveling the playing field for professionals of color (POC) when it comes to job applications and startups. We'll explore how Spark not only provides solutions but also tackles the mental hurdles POCs often face, like turning personal experiences, into resume-worthy assets.In this episode, we'll take a deep dive into Adrian's background and the unique journey that inspired him to launch Spark. Following that, we'll provide you with a comprehensive overview of what you can anticipate as a user of the Spark platformConnect with Adrian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantovalin/#creatingconnectionswithmagdalena #Entrepreneurship #creativity #startups #motivation #personaldevelopment #DiversityinTech #POC

Can't get past the starting phase? This might do the trick. #MadMondayz are motivational episodes that help you clear your mind before a productive week! 

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Gabriella, who shares her deeply personal journey of making the tough decision to walk away from her life as a D1 athlete. She takes us back to the crossroads of choosing her college path and navigating the maze of uncertainties. We dive deep into her journey from being a D1 athlete, the emotions and thoughts that came with considering a life beyond sports, and the courageous leap she took to redefine her identity. Tune in to uncover the key factors that drove her decision, the positive self-discoveries post-athlete life, and the profound lessons she's learned about herself along the way. This episode is all about resilience, adaptability, and how transformation shapes your perspective on personal growth and identity.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with indie artist, filmmaker, and actor, Bertrand Best. Born and raised in "The SWAT" in Houston, Texas, Bertrand's journey is a captivating blend of cinema and personal growth.Discover how he transformed his passion for filmmaking into a serious endeavor during his time at Sam Houston State University. Bertrand co-founded a black film society, facing challenges that tested his leadership and communication skills.Explore Bertrand's journey of self-improvement, driven by the need for better collaboration and communication within his team. Learn from a specific instance where a lack of effective interpersonal communication prompted introspection and positive change.Listen as Bertrand shares the strategies and resources that enhanced his interpersonal communication skills and contributed to the success of BARB Productions.Tiktok: @bertrandbest_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYn7qwHz3pg

A check in with yourself inspired by Barbie and my latest conversation with my therapist. 

If you've been struggling with why things haven't been working out for you lately, this is for you. 

In this deeply personal episode, I want to share with you how a recent YouTube video by the incredible Bessel van der Kolk sparked a profound shift in my perspective on healing trauma without medication. Inspired and motivated, I decided to embark on a 30-day journey, crafting my own version of what I learned from the video, with a special focus on embracing body acceptance. Join me as I open up about my experiences, struggles, and breakthroughs, and let's explore the transformative power of holistic healing together

Join me as I dive into the whirlwind of societal pressures and expectations that come knocking with age, love, and career choices.In this candid episode, I share my recent visit home, where I found myself bombarded with well-meaning questions about marriage, kids, and future plans. It took me right back to my high school days, when everyone wanted to know which degree I'd pursue, where I'd study, and what my life's grand plan was.Let's explore the delicate balance between societal timelines and our genuine aspirations. Together, we'll break free from the hold of external expectations and uncover what truly holds meaning for us

Join me on an introspective journey as we explore the enchanting territory of the "messy middle" in life. In this episode, I delve into the exhilarating yet bewildering phase where we're inundated with countless interests, leaving us grappling with the question of what truly ignites our soul.In this episode, I'll guide you through a powerful exercise that will help you navigate the noise and prioritize your passions in the messy middle of life. But before we dive into the exercise, I'll provide you with essential tools and perspectives to prepare you. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a newfound understanding of how to uncover your true essence, find clarity amidst the chaos, and discover what truly matters on your personal journey.

In this introspective episode of Creating Connections, we'll challenge a common misconception perpetuated by movies - the belief in a single, grand AHA moment that validates our entire existence. Inspired by a powerful scene from the Rocky movie, we'll dive deep into this notion and uncover the real secret to finding true fulfillment. 

Join me as I explore the essential elements needed to reignite progress and turn things around. Through candid self-reflection, I emphasize the significance of discipline and understanding the underlying "why" behind our endeavors. I delve into the misconception that motivation is the sole factor holding us back, revealing how it's often a matter of prioritizing conflicting motivations. Together, we confront the fears and self-doubt that keep us trapped in our own minds, hindering progress. Additionally, I share a valuable tip on how I'm personally staying true to my purpose and shedding light on unhealthy habits that may be undermining my growth. Get ready for a journey of self-discovery, as we uncover the keys to reclaiming motivation and forging a path towards success rooted in discipline and a crystal-clear sense of purpose. Hope you enjoy!Con Amor, Magz

In the first episode of my "Grow Through What You Go Through" series, I have the privilege of sitting down with Sydney, the incredible founder of SP Health, a health and wellness brand. Sydney graciously opens up about her own healing journey, which proved essential in her pursuit of her dreams and building unshakeable self-belief. Throughout our heartfelt conversation, Sydney shares the pivotal moments where she had to confront and overcome a survival mindset passed down from her parents. Together, we explore her transformation from playing the victim to embracing personal ownership, offering a powerful testament to the resilience and growth that comes from facing life's challenges head-on. Prepare to be inspired as Sydney's story illuminates the path towards self-discovery and empowerment. #GTWYGT #Creatingconnectionswithmadmagz

In this episode, I open up about my ongoing struggle with self-trust and confidence. Through heartfelt storytelling, I share three powerful approaches that have been instrumental in my journey: recognizing that no one else's opinion matters but my own, incorporating a transformative morning routine, and liberating myself from the constraints of past successes or failures. By embracing these practices, I am gradually rebuilding trust in my abilities and finding the courage to push my boundaries. Join me on this episode as I inspire you to embark on your own path of self-discovery and reclaim the unwavering trust in yourself! Con Amor, Magz

Sometimes you have an idea, and you're not exactly sure how to execute it. You don't know how much to pursue it, and who you should take along for the ride. Alan shares his unique story about the origin of Trendi, a platform that is educating content creators in Latin America, and how he was able to make it his full time gig. Find Trendi here: https://www.jointrendi.com/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=bio&utm_campaign=bio

As we continue to "chase that feeling", I talk to the Readi team, who brought something to life with that feeling. Ale, Jacqueline, and Damien came together with a shared mission of creating safe hangout spaces. Motivated by a pattern they noticed during COVID, they put their heads together to create what Readi is today. Today they are raising funding for their app, but we will dive into how they even came about defining what it is, and what it'd look like, as well as  tuning into their individual strengths to make this happen. Follow @getreadi on Instagram to keep up with the team! 

hello! I'm back, and super excited to kick off my new segment "chasing that feeling". In this new series you can expect to her from community builders who are tackling on something bigger than themselves. These individuals are motivated by an internal passion that they will dive deeper into within each episode. If you are someone who is looking to uncovering your passion or understand how to bring it into action...this series is for you! As always, feel free to email me at madmagz.cc@gmail.com with any questions you may want to include in the next segment.In this episode you'll get to know Lyanne Alfaro. A friend I had the pleasure of meeting just earlier this year. Lyanne started her platform Moneda Moves back in 2015, with the intention of bringing to journalism a new light to latinos in media. Tune into her podcast Moneda Moves here. Moneda Moves can also be found on all socials as: @monedamoves

If you've ever woken up early, got your lift in, drank your morning cup of coffee and your day still didn't turn out like you'd hope...this is for you.

Hi guys, I know it's been...months lol. But we're here! and we're talking rejection, divine timing, knowing your strengths, and a little recap of this year.

I cannot believe it's been two months..lol. But I'm back friends! And with some news to share. I hope you all are looking forward to this rebranding of my Creating Connections. If you are interested in the newsletter piece feel free to email me at mrmadrigal04@gmail.com! 

Always striving for perfect? Andie and I used to, too. We dive into perfectionism in this episode and discuss how much it can really inhibit you. Andie opens up about how perfectionism appears in her life by sharing her personal experiences like being a young manager at her job, choosing her friend group, and some tips shared by her therapist. 

We spend or lives pursuing becoming something and in the process experience self judgement, doubt, lack of motivation, and I think this all can affect our self worth. In this episode I discuss my experience with self value and what I'll be practicing moving forward.

It's no secret we all care what people think of us to a certain extent, and social media has only added to this. Cody Lopez, founder of Basement Wine, and the Get Better Everyday podcast. Cody and I discuss how he's learned to care less about what other people are thinking in order to see success in what he does. You can check out Cody's podcast Get Better Everyday on Spotify or Apple and follow Basement Wine @basementwine.

In this episode I talk to Cobi Robertson from Nashville about his experience with the ego; how it influenced his past, what he's learned about it, and how he has actually befriended it in present day. 

Christina Sladowski joins me for another episode in my Unlearning series, where she shares some big news (psstt it's in the episode title). So what did she unlearn? Sometimes when we make these big decisions in our lives it can be hard to accept that a break off is necessary. Christina shares her thinking process that led up to this decision and how she ultimately unlearned to view this break off as a set back.

Being the organized, structured person that I am, change and spontaneity can be hard to do. But sometimes that's just how things flow, and you have to adapt in order to make progress. This is how I plan on doing that moving forward!

Sometimes it feels like you haven't made any progress towards your ideas. I've been in that situation before and this is how I've grown to seize it!

Sometimes it's hard to not see instant results when we've grown up in an era with instant gratification at the CORE of our social interaction. But I would be lying if I didn't say that the most growth I've had in MY platform, happened as a result of me putting in the work months before. So here we go again..let's plant some seeds!

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How many times do you think about the quality of your thoughts? Neha shares how she has grown to reflect on what goes on in her head and has learned techniques to switch any negative self talk into something much more empowering.