Fred Talk with Freddy Vasquez

NOAH GIBNEY IS AN ESTABLISHED MUSICIAN ON HIS WAY TO PROFESSIONAL STARDOM – AND HE'S ONLY 16 YEARS OLD! I had the pleasure of catching an impromptu performance by Noah at the Habitat Berks Birdhouse Challenge. I was definitely infatuated with the vibe and knew I had to meet him one day. Lucky for me, I was actually contacted by a friend of his to possibly be a guest on the show. Sure enough, we got together and boy was this interview a great one! Noah has collaborated with G-Love, met the president, and all because he took a chance by sending out a message. You can't beat tenacity! LEARN MORE ABOUT NOAH GIBNEY Spotify: Noah Gibney TikTok: @thenoah_gibney Instagram: @thenoah_gibney Facebook: @noah.gibney.359 CONNECT WITH FXV DIGITAL DESIGN Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital SHOW NOTES Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Immortality does not exist. Eventually, it will be our time to move on to the next chapter, whatever that is depending on your beliefs. Lately, it's been on my brain based on the news I've received or events I've experienced. it gets you to think on many different levels. My own mortality weighs on me daily. I know what I need to do to improve, but I stay on this terrible path and nothing changes. But that's my own problem. If I want to change, I need to make a real effort. After I sit there and complain about myself for a while in my head, I move on to my loved ones. I watched a video a while back and it left a mark. A gentleman on a podcast spoke about how many times you have left to see your parents. I did the math and the number will scare you. You always think they'll be there forever, but reality sets in and you start to consider what you plan on doing to make that number larger. Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

DAN CLOUSER IN AN AUTHOR, BLOGGER, PODCASTER, SPEAKER, AND ADVENTURE SEEKER. The first time Dan was on Fred Talk, we spoke about him and his wife Sandy selling all of their possessions and leaving the normal routine of everyday life. Fast forward a couple of years and he's back with a new book release, podcast, and more stories than you can count. Inspiring to say the least, Dan fills us in on his latest adventures to North Dakota, Kentucky, and how he's looking forward to Canada and Alaska. But Dan is more than just traveling. We get into music, baseball, visiting unique ballparks, and so much more. My wife and I hope to follow in his footsteps sooner than later, and look forward to being able to talk about our own adventures. LEARN MORE ABOUT DAN CLOUSER Website: Journey of My Mother's Son Podcast: Spotify Book: The Journey of My Mother's Son Book: The Beauty of a Diamond CONNECT WITH FXV DIGITAL DESIGN Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital SHOW NOTES Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

I have a hard time saying no. I am often asked to attend events, contribute to community efforts, or simply give money, and the first word out of my mouth is always, Yes! But this time, it was almost more of a benefit to me than the actual organization asking for help. I had the amazing opportunity to interview Candace Nelson at the 2023 Greater Reading Chamber Alliance Dinner because she requested it be in that type of format. She had no interest in just showing up and speaking, so that opened the door for me to be that guy. Putting myself in an uncomfortable position put the fear of god in me. I was terrified. I stood up in front of over 800 people and had to be me. Freddy Vasquez. The guy with the white beard isn't afraid of anything. Well, this evening, that was being put to the test. Show Notes GRCA: https://greaterreading.org/ Social Clover Marketing: https://socialclovermarketing.com/ Candace Nelson: https://candace-nelson.com/ Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

Jack Gombach is a relentless optimist and an advocate for Reading, PA, and its surrounding communities. I only met Jack a couple of times around town, but I love his vibe. He always has a smile on his face and is all about making his community better - one of my favorite traits! It was entertaining and informative being able to sit down with Jack and discuss Reading, PA, how the community can come together and make it better, and what may come. There's been so much talk about improvements, especially about the potential of having the train back in town and we try and break down what needs to happen to make it a reality. Learn More About Jack Gombach LinkedIn: @Jack-Gombach-for-PA Facebook: @JackForPA Website: McNees Wallace & Nurick Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Visiting Charleston, SC was definitely an eye-opening experience. What I originally thought was going to be a trip full of overeating and complaints about walking, ended up being more than I could ever expect. Charleston was built on slave labor for almost two centuries. It was a key port for slavery, so much so that 80% of African Americans can potentially trace a relative that lived there. Even though the last remaining slave port in the US still resides in Charleston as a museum, most slaves were bought and sold right on the dock as they walked off the boats. When visiting Boone Hall Plantation, I realized slavery was real. I know it sounds like a dumb statement, but all I ever knew of slavery was from books in elementary school. To be on a piece of land that housed slavery was surreal. I visited slave homes as seen in the photo above. They were smaller than my office and housed 21 slaves. They were also a sign of wealth for the plantation owners. We can't forget history. I know this now that I visited Charleston and saw the horrors of slavery. Do yourself a favor and visit Charleston if you can. I guarantee it will leave a mark. Show Notes Poogan's Porch: https://www.poogansporch.com/ Brown Dog Deli: https://browndogdeli.com/ Boone Hall Plantation: https://www.boonehallplantation.com/ Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

Anthony Matz is the photographer and eye behind Berks County Views and one of my go-to photographers for FXV Digital Design. I was asked to participate in Career Day for Wyomissing Schools a year or so ago and I saw a gentleman with the same style in eyewear that I have. After chatting for a bit, I found out he was a freelance photographer and was pretty new to the game. Fast forward a few months and a few chance encounters, Anthony and I worked on our first project together and he let me in on the news that he was the eye behind Berks County Views. Learn More About Anthony Matz Website: Berks County Views Facebook: @BerksCountyViews Instagram: @BerksCountyViews TikTok: @BerksCountyViews Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Brian Adams is the owner of The Art Room in West Reading, PA, and one of my most valued allies when it comes to philanthropy and making change. I met Brian two years ago when he contacted me to participate in The Awesome Toy Drive. Since then, we've always had the best conversations in his shop. We talk about small business, spill the tea on the avenue, and what we need to succeed in life. What I loved about this episode was our discussion about religion. It's refreshing to hear from a man who is technically not welcome in certain areas of the catholic church but still has faith. Oh, and before I forget, Brian was a personal shopper to the glamorous in New York City and even shopped for the hit movie Creed. Learn More About Brian Adams Website: The Art Room Facebook: @TheArtRoomWR Instagra,: @TheArtRoom_WR Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Aaron Simser is the owner of Artistic Visions Wildlife in Douglassville, PA, and a badass United States Marine. Aaron was introduced to me by a friend of mine in the restaurant business. I was ignorant to the world of hunting and taxidermy, but I received a quick education when I was asked to visit Artistic Visions Wildlife. Words can't even begin to describe the creativity and art that goes into every piece that enters Aaron's shop. It's easy to jump to conclusions and pass judgment when you don't understand the lifestyle of a hunter. But befriending Aaron has taught me there's more to it than just killing an animal. The stories, relationships, and actual benefits to hunting and taxidermy are all right here from the master himself. Learn More About Aaron Simser Website: Artistic Visions Wildlife Facebook: @ArtisticVisionsTaxidermy Instagra,: @ArtisticVisionsWildlife Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

English Bradley is a passionate, overly-organized community member, and Administrative Manager at BCTV in Reading, PA. I met English a few years back at a networking event and we've been friends ever since. Her passion for community and outgoing positive attitude make it easy to have her in your circle of friends that help lift you to higher levels of success. She truly loves people and makes it a point to ensure she is at her best when she schedules to meet anyone. She literally schedules naps for self-care and for you! Learn More About English Bradley Website: BCTV LinkedIn: English Bradley Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Brad Coley is an agent with Goosehead Insurance located in Reading, PA. Brad was a successful insurance agent with a local company when he started to see signs that the times were a changin'. To his dismay, he was let go and was a man with "no home, " only armed with years of insurance industry experience.  Brad describes being upset, shocked and compared it to a divorce. "Shit Happens!" is a direct quote, but after the initial grief period, he knew this would be the perfect time to take care of himself. Eating right, mentally getting stronger, and getting his "geese" in a row opened a brand new door to a better opportunity. Brad Coley's reputation precedes him, and I personally knew he would come out on top, ready to rock and roll like always. Learn More About Brad Coley Website: Goosehead Insurance LinkedIn: Brad Coley Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

John Whitehall is an entrepreneur and sales consultant with over 35 years of experience coaching high-performing and winning sales organizations in a variety of industries. When John and I get together, the stars align. The amount of knowledge he encompasses is astronomical and I always leave our conversations with more nuggets that help me with my day-to-day business strategies. It almost feels like stealing because the knowledge he bestows upon me is priceless. In this episode we discuss emotions in sales, and how it is pretty much the foundation of all of our decision-making. We also discuss role-playing and how practicing just about anything in life makes you better when it times to shine. Learn More About John Whitehall LinkedIn: John Whitehall Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Beth McCormick is the owner and operator of Tri-Boba Food Truck, a small business she started to give her autistic son a chance. When her son turned 16, Beth decided to try and help her son get involved in the workforce. To her dismay, there weren't many vocational opportunities for not only her son but other kids with disabilities. With her vocational background and dream of being an entrepreneur, Beth decided to start Tri-Boba Food Truck. She retired early, started to sling bubble tea, and gave her son an opportunity. But her passion did not go unnoticed. Once word got out about her true mission behind Tri-Boba, other parents asked how their children could get involved. Now Beth is on her way to having 14 employees this season and who knows how far she can go? Beth is definitely a rockstar in our community. Learn More About Beth McCormick Website: Tri-Boba Food Truck Facebook: @TriBobaTruck Instagram: @TriBobaTruck Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Alec Reinert is the Director of Operations at Science Explorers, focusing on shaping the minds of youth through STEM education. Alec and I have been friends for years and are apparently mistaken for brothers! He's a community pillar and asked for my involvement in 2019 when I founded the Awesome Toy Drive. Fast forward to 2023, and he is now a member of the awesome team at Science Explorers. I was recently invited to participate in an experiment for the children at Riverside Elementary in Reading, PA, and I can't wait for the next one! Learn More About Alec Reinert Website: Science Explorers Facebook: @ScienceExplorersInc Instagram: @ScienceExplorers LinkedIn: @AlecReinert Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Rachel Romig is the Senior Director of Events and Special Programs at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and the owner of Just Breathe Wedding and Event Planning. I was lucky enough to connect with Rachel on LinkedIn after she sent me a message about an upcoming GRCA event. I knew her from gracing local magazine covers and being a community leader, so I figured why not take a shot and ask her to be on the show? Let me tell ya, that was one of my best moves because the conversation we had was awesome! We talked baseball, Parks and Recreation, The Office, feminism, masculinity, and a slew of other subjects that we both hold near and dear to our hearts. This was an episode for the books! Learn More About Rachael Romig Website: Greater Reading Chamber Alliance Wedding Wire: Just Breathe. Facebook: @JustBreatheEventsCo Instagram: @JustBreatheEventsCo LinkedIn: @RachaelRomig Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Alexis Kessaris is a Pelvic Floor Therapist at Core Health Chiropractic. Have you ever heard of pelvic floor therapy? I just found out this existed when I met the wonderful Alexis Kessaris. She filled me in on the specialized therapy's “ins and outs” and how it is not just for women. It may be embarrassing to most men if you're having "male problems," but seeing a pelvic floor therapist can change your life! Oh, did I mention she has a vagina costume? Learn More About Alexis Kessaris Website: Core Health Chiropractic Facebook: @CoreHealthBerks Instagram: @CoreHealthBerks Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Brad Stephenson is an award-winning entrepreneur and CEO of New Castle Lawn and Landscape. And this means absolutely nothing! And it's not a dig because the worth Brad brings to the table is not in business but instead in human development and belief in oneself. Our conversation was one of the most transparent in the 74 times I've done this podcast, and I couldn't help but appreciate his trust in me to share his story. Learn More About Brad Stephenson Website: New Castle Facebook: @94newcastle Instagram: @94newcastle LinkedIn: @brad-stephenson YouTube: @newcastle9474 Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

ATTENTION! THIS IS NOT A REPEAT! We don't usually wait to bring back a guest. Still, I was so enamored by his story that I forgot the selfish reason I wanted Sir Hamilton Newton on this show - voiceovers. Hamilton started as a local DJ on the ones and twos, got gigs at prestigious radio stations around the country, and has now excelled in his career in the voiceover space. I've always been told I had a face for radio, so why not learn from the best? Learn More About Sir Hamilton Newton Website: Sir Hamilton Newton Facebook: @sirhamiltonnewton Instagram: @sirhamiltonnewton_vo LinkedIn: @sir-hamilton-newton YouTube: @sirhamiltonnewton8520 Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Tricia Williams is the founder of Social Clover Marketing. For many of us, COVID was a huge bummer. But for some, it was a new opportunity. Tricia was furloughed from her employer at the time with no timeline for return. Instead of sitting on her laurels, she decided to start a new business where her talents could be used to give her the freedom she longed for. Now, this isn't the first rodeo for Tricia. She has already started and sold a business since I met her. Being an entrepreneur is in her DNA. Connect with Tricia Williams Website: Social Clover Marketing Facebook: @SocialCloverMarketing Instagram: @SocialCloverMarketing LinkedIn: @tricia-williams Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital Facebook: @FXVDigitalDesign TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Sir Hamilton Newton is a DJ, Voiceover Artist, Fighter, and Survivor. When I first sat down to speak with Hamilton, I figured we would do the usual routine of where you're from, where you've been, etc. But what I didn't expect was full transparency. Hamilton has lived not one but many lives in his short span of time here on Earth, and he's made it admittedly hard on himself and others. But what I truly respect about the man is how he sat here like an open book hoping to let anyone in the dark know that the light is not too far away. Learn More About Sir Hamilton Newton Website: Sir Hamilton Newton Facebook: @sirhamiltonnewton Instagram: @sirhamiltonnewton_vo LinkedIn: @sir-hamilton-newton YouTube: @sirhamiltonnewton8520 Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Adam Serrano is a freelance artist originally from Brooklyn, NY, currently residing in West Reading, PA. Adam is influenced by anything from graffiti to hip-hop to sci-fi. He's known locally for his incredible mural work in Lancaster, PA, logo designs, album artwork, and he's personally created not one but two original pieces for FXV Digital Design. The cool part about this conversation was that it was just that - a conversation. We discuss the new AI craze, aliens, and even if there is other life in the universe! I can't wait to do it again! Learn More About Adam Serrano Website: Adam Serrano Art Instagram: @ifstagram Lancaster Online: Artist Adam Serrano encourages others to conjure giants with latest mural Lancaster Public Art: A Conversation with PSA Muralist Adam Serrano Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: FXV Digital Design LinkedIn: @fxv-digital-design Instagram: @fxvdigital TikTok: @fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Kevin Kolb is the founder of Soul Recovery Academy in Bernville, PA. His new podcast, 6:47 with Kevin, helps get your day started by motivating you to achieve positivity by fighting through the pain, hurdles, and challenges we all have daily. Kevin and I have that type of relationship where we build each other by using our skill sets to help each other. This first episode featuring just the two of us may be the spark we need to create something more significant.

Russell Farbiarz is the owner of Antanavage Farbiarz, PLLC in Hamburg, PA. Russell has been a friend of mine for over ten years now, and there isn't anything I don't know about him. But it was great to FINALLY sit down and discuss how he is on a mission to ensure Berks County is prepared for the inevitable! Russell also has an AWESOME new podcast, "Not Minding My Own Business" where he talks with business owners, operators, and influencers in Berks County. YOU NEED TO SET UP AN ESTATE PLAN! Listen to Russell and have many of your questions answered in this week's Fred Talk!

Annabelle Bowers is the owner of AB Photography in Reading, PA. Annabelle grew up being one of the kids in the high school art room surrounded by creatives. She became passionate about taking photos and decided to sharpen her skills in college. After having her first child, she started AB Photography to ensure she was a present mom while making a living with her camera. Along with taking photos, Annabelle strives to be a competitive boxer in the near future. She hits the gym a few times weekly and calls it cheaper than therapy!

Alex Bernhard is the owner of New Age Hoops in Reading, PA. New Age Hoops was founded by Alex Bernhard in 2016 to develop young players into the best version of themselves through basketball. What Alex discovered was a need to not only develop the player's skills but their mindset as well. It's been an absolute pleasure to watch Alex and New Age Hoops grow into an asset in the Reading community and you need to listen to his story and insight - it will change your life!

Don Carrick is the owner of Studio 413 Photography in Reading, PA. We met at a networking event back in 2016 and we've been friends ever since. Don is known for making Berks County professionals look confident and charming. His magic powers include producing the perfect headshot, donating his time to community organizations, and making his clients laugh any chance he gets! Take a trip with me now as we learn more about Dr. Pixel and his journey toward taking the perfect photo.

I've made it a point to make 2023 the greatest year of branding I will ever have for my company FXV Digital Design. Self-reflection is a great way to be honest with yourself when it comes to any part of your life and I've been doing it a ton lately. I finally opened up myself and my company to other opinions, ideas, and creativity. This seems like common sense to any other business owner, but to me, this was really, really hard to do. I have that gene that doesn't allow anyone in creatively, but things have to change in order for me to reach the goals I have set for myself. With that being said, this year I plan on kicking some serious ass when it comes to business and branding. I already have grandiose ideas for commercials, videos, merch, podcasts, etc. You need to leave a mark on people when it comes to your brand and one of the easiest ways to help jumpstart your plan of attack is by asking yourself: What do people think of when they hear my name? Name of my business? It may not be the hardest question for you to answer, but you do have to be honest with yourself. I have it written down and everything is split into two columns: good and bad. Taking my own advice, I have words in each column. I'm not afraid to call myself out on words in the bad column because it brings the issues to light and no I know what I need to fix and what I need to keep doing. Anyway, Happy New Year to you! Hopefully, you can achieve all the goals you have set for yourself and I hope to see you on the other side. Show Notes Jersey Ink: https://www.jerseyink.net/ Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

My latest Fred Talk Flow episode wraps up the 2022 Awesome Toy Drive! The drive ended with 1,325 gifts collected and $2,000 donated to Opportunity House and Olivet Boys & Girls Club! This year began with a little worry. Tags were not leaving as quickly as in the past, but with the addition of 20 more locations, we were able to beat last year's numbers and create new friendships with businesses in our area. As I've stated time and time again, it takes a village. Please take a moment to check out the full wrap-up and PLEASE visit the Awesome Toy Drive website and make sure you patronize the local businesses that helped make this our best year yet! Awesome Toy Drive Info & Organizations Website: https://www.awesometoydrive.com/ Concern: https://www.concern4kids.org/ Olivet Boys & Girls Club: https://www.olivetbgc.org/ The Children's Home of Reading: https://www.buildingkidslives.org/ Opportunity House: https://opphouse.org/ Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

JD Turner is the owner of Holistic Skateshop in West Reading, PA. I first met JD a few years back when my daughter asked for a skateboard. We headed over to Holistic and had one of the greatest customer experiences of my life. He took the time to ask my daughter the appropriate questions and set up a board custom just for her - but that wasn't the only AWESOME thing that day! JD informed me of a dream he had about opening up a killer skatepark in the Reading area. Built correctly with enough space to accommodate everyone. What started as a simple idea in 2016 has blossomed into the Reading Skatepark Association which hopes to open in the very near future! Connect with JD Turner Website: https://holisticskateshop.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HolisticSkateshop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holistic_skateshop Twitter: https://twitter.com/holisticskate Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: https://www.josephalexander.media/ Music By: https://soundcloud.com/xoxodai

Ethan Lasher is the owner of Ethan Lasher's Auto Detailing. I enjoyed my time with Ethan on the podcast because he gives me hope! At such a young age he has made some pretty large life decisions, yet I am envious of the confidence he had while making those moves. Born and bred here in Berks County, Ethan set a goal for himself to own his own auto-detailing business, ditch the college life, and marry the woman he wanted to grow old with - and he's only 21 years old! Ethan knows the importance of networking and relationships, and it's at the forefront of his marketing plan. With dreams of scaling the business to a point that allows him to sell, he plans on making his venture a household name with relationship building and a spotless reputation. Connect with Ethan Lasher Website: https://www.ethanlasher.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LashersAutoDetailing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lasher_official/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-lasher-4580ab1a2/ Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Erik Arizmendi is the owner of Comālli Taqueria, the tastiest taco joint in town! Erik started his journey towards earning the title of Taco King in 2015 with a canopy tent and an Al Pastor machine. He kicked up his game in 2019 by purchasing his first taco truck, and quickly found himself with a brick-and-mortar spot in West Reading before the year was out. We all know how 2020 went, but that didn't stop Erik from working on his brand by providing quality and consistency with every taco served. Fast forward to 2022, and his brand is stronger than ever! He's now expanded to providing catering services, added another taco truck, and he's had to improve technology in his dining room to make sure every customer has a great experience – and all this in 3 YEARS! Check out how Erik keeps his staff motivated and always on board with providing the highest quality with the best consistency in Berks – most likely the world! Connect with Erik Arizmendi Website: Comālli Taqueria Facebook: TaqueriaComalli Instagram: @taqueriacomalli Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai

Shawn Borelli is the owner of Borelli Designs and ProCore Contracting here in Berks County and a man I considered competition. After coincidentally hanging out with him on a pontoon boat, I quickly found out competition is a lame reason not to befriend someone. Fast forward a few months and a weekend trip in Delaware, and I am quickly realizing Shawn is an asset to not only the community around us but my very own life. His constant state of positivity and genuine interest in your well-being just makes him one of the greatest human beings I will ever know. And that's only the beginning of this episode. Make sure you check out the whole episode wherever you listen to podcasts and check out the new video. We're upgrading our productions game and I can't think of a better episode to start it off with. Show Notes Produced By: Joseph Alexander Media Music By: Beats by Dai Connect with Shawn Borelli Website: Borelli Designs Website: ProCore Contracting Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

This week's guest is David Hall, a videographer, musician, and a dude that dreams it and creates it. I wanted to have David on the show because his social media accounts are filled with images of a structure called a nonagon, which if you don't know is a nine-sided polygon. It's in the middle of a forest here in Pennsylvania and David plans to not only use it as his home but a recording studio. Get all the details right here on this week's episode. Connect with David Hall Website: Lone Cricket Productions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonecricket/ Instagram: LoneCricket Connect with FXV Digital Design Website: https://fxvdigital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fxv-digital-design/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fxvdigital/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fxvdigital

This week's guest is Meggan Kerber, Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Alvernia University. Meggan and I go back to the days of Bethany Children's Home. She called me in to do some website work and a new friendship was born. Fast forward a few years and a couple of careers, and she's here enlightening me with her thoughts on community involvement, funding for non-profits, and how important self-care is to help you not only obtain your goals but to be active in your everyday life. Meggan is also a miracle! She was in a vehicular accident years ago that should have taken her life. As she put it, "I shouldn't even be here doing this podcast!" Next time you see Meggan, give her a hug and thank her for being such a valued member of our community here in Berks.

This week's guests are Marcy Tocker and Stephanie Smith of Grey Muzzle Manor For the past year and a half, I've had to struggle with mental health. Two major events that happened in my life made me question everything I ever was as a person, man, father, husband, and friend. I quickly began to think negatively about most of my relationships and I was seriously considering a way out of them all. I now have a therapist I am speaking to on a biweekly basis and that has definitely helped me turn the page. I strongly suggest you take the therapist route if you are having bad days with your mental health. Marcy and Stephanie both provide mental health services at Grey Muzzle Manor, and this episode discusses not only how they can help you, but that it's okay to have these feelings and that it's definitely okay to ask for help.

This week's guest is Javier Ramos, owner and creative director of A Night with Javier. The source of the proverb 'The devil is in the details' is often attributed to the German/American architect Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe. This is almost certainly a misattribution. The expression derives from an earlier German proverb - "Der liebe Gott steckt im detail", which translates as 'God is in the detail'. In Javier's case, his faith in God, passion for mixology, and attention to detail was the driving force in creating one of the most elite bartending services in the country. From Arizona to New York City, Miami to DC, and Buffalo to Reading, Javier is on his way to being not only the most famous culinary mixologist in the country but the world.

This past weekend I visited the city of St. Louis. I checked out the Cardinals and crossed off ballpark number 14 on my list. Busch Stadium is an excellent place to catch a game and be amongst some of America's most die-hard, rabid fans. The vibe is jumping in Downtown St. Luis when the red birds are playing, and it made my personal Top 5 list when it came to parks already visited. If you're curious, the other 4 are Wrigley Field (Chicago), Petco Park (San Diego), PNC Park (Pittsburgh), and Camden Yards (Baltimore). What I also noticed in St. Louis was the lack of leadership and government downtown. I didn't visit the rest of the city to be fair, but what I saw by The Gateway Arch was astounding. There were feces in the streets and I can't say for sure it all belonged to dogs. Questionable people in the area after dark, and even more questionable activities Sunday morning on a stroll for some coffee. It made me sad to think that situations like this still existed. I know I've made a good life for myself and I'm not ignorant to the fact that these situations exist, but I never thought it would be so apparent, so in your face. I right away found myself wondering who ran this town and what they were doing to make it better. Local government is SO IMPORTANT! Please do yourself a favor and research who you're voting into these positions of leadership! St. Louis needs help! I also discussed assertiveness and how important it is to not only your life but your business. I've finally reached a point in my career where I no longer NEED to work with everyone. That's not an egotistical statement, because it's something I should have done long ago to spare myself hours of negative thinking and energy. When you work with clients that lack the fun and positive vibes you are looking for on a daily basis, you're almost killing yourself slowly. DON'T DO THAT! Rather, work with those clients that put a smile on your face. You'll find yourself working even harder of your own volition and even greater things come from that. Trust me, it's apparent in all the work I do.

This week's guest is Eddie Rodriguez, entrepreneur and sales guru! Working in the automotive sales industry for over 20 years, Eddie grew to become one of the most successful salesmen in the game! Making six figures was a walk in the park, but believe it or not - HE QUIT! Ya see, COVID actually gave Eddie the gift of staying home and that's when he realized he needed to make a change to keep his presence permanent. After a chance encounter with a car buyer, Eddie was motivated to start a new business. After a mere 14 months, Eddie is pulling in more than he did selling cars, and his smile is even brighter.

This week I hosted my very first two events at FXV Digital Design. I was nervous. I was scared. How bad was I going to be up there speaking to a small group of peers and friends? I felt like I tanked! But session two came around and the outcome was different. I also drove hours to hang out with my Uncle in Brooklyn. We decided to get together before he left for TN to start the next chapter of his life, but my hopes for humanity were challenged. A veteran in a wheelchair wanted to go on the fishing trip as well and what happened next left me dumbfounded. Be kind to each other my friends, looks like we need more of it in this world.

If you want to grow and become a better version of yourself, uncomfortable situations need to be part of your routine. This week I plan on holding two in-person website seminars to jumpstart the next chapter of my career and my life. It's the unknown and the uneasiness you put yourself in that makes goals so awesome to achieve. If I've learned anything during my time here, it's that you can never stop setting goals for yourself. You should also never stop dreaming.

This week's guest is Ed Burns, entrepreneur, marketer extraordinaire, sales guru, and all-around awesome dude! Starting his journey at the University of Miami, Ed figured out college wasn't for him. He ended up coming back to Berks and grabbing his degree locally before stepping up to the plate to face LIFE. Ed is in love with learning. So much so that he took a shot at running a political campaign, used the school of Google to learn marketing enough to start his own agency, and now he's helping the family business propel to the next level. And guess what? he's not even warmed up yet!

This week's guest is Andre Young, motivational teacher, author, and founder of You Evolving Now, LLC. I recently had the pleasure of watching Andre speak for the first time at an event and my mindset has evolved ever since. From the moment you wake up, to the minute you lay your head back down, gratitude, attitude, and love should be consistent parts of your day. There are a plethora of positive nuggets throughout this episode of Fred Talk, and you really should jot down the highlights to add to your daily repertoire. Believe me, this is one for the books!

This week I'm talking about your SOUL! You need to take the time to make sure your SOUL is filled with all the goodness it needs so you can continue to enjoy the ride we call life. I also speak about letting go of the negative and listening to the future of America - they actually know what they're talking about!

This week's guest is Crystal Seitz, President of Pennsylvania's Americana Region, and Berks County's #1 Cheerleader. Crystal is a native of Berks County and knows the importance of being a positive impact where you live. She is a firm believer in supporting organizations and causes that provide a benefit to one's community, as well as going out and becoming a part of the good. We also discuss Crystal's adventures (getting lost) in Africa, life after the pandemic, and how you need to stop and smell the roses – FOR REAL! “When you support your people going out and doing that kind of work, or you yourself do it, you're generating things within yourself. Different skills, networking skills, people skills, communication skills. If you run an event, you're doing organizational skills, and leadership skills – there's a whole bunch of things that go along with doing (community work.)” – Crystal Seitz

This week's flow is all about self-care and having the courage to be selfish! We need to stop putting others before ourselves in all aspects of our lives. It's damaging to our mental health and can lead to stress that damages our well-being. Take it from your Uncle Freddy, no one is more important than YOU!

This week's guests are Justin Parker and Amanda Drange of The Cage! A couple of years back I was a co-host of a show called “The Cage” with Justin and Amanda on an app called Stationhead (check it out if you don't know.) We had the best times meeting up on a weekly basis and discussing music, pop culture, and whatever else we felt was worth the time. But more importantly, we were therapy for each other and it's a friendship that I know will last until we all hit the dirt! In this episode of Fred Talk, we discuss mental health, business, failing as a necessity, and a whole bunch more. I hope this is the first of many episodes because, in the end, it just means I had a great time with two people I hold dear to my heart.

This week's guest is Trish Evangelista, owner of Babylon Crossfit in Babylon, NY. Looking for a way to keep herself fit after college sports, Trish was introduced to CrossFit, and the rest they say is history. She fell in love right away and decided to make her newly found passion her career. But how do you grow a business you purchased on the eve of COVID? Well, you build a community. And when you build a community, you build a brand.

This week's flow features local authors right here in Reading, PA. I only spoke about four, but I'm sure there's more! Make sure you leave your favorite local authors in the comments. I'm also enamored by the Master of Puppets phenomenon created by the latest season of Stranger Things and I LOVE LEGO!

This week's guest is Branden Moyer, CEO and President of Homecare Solution and the Founder of Uncle B's Bees. Now Branden wasn't always the successful entrepreneur he is today, he actually had dreams of designing and building theme parks for Disney. Now, you always have to start somewhere, and for Branden - it was in the bathroom. Though his initial foot in the door wasn't the cleanest of introductions, it allowed him to meet one of the most powerful men in America - which isn't too shabby. After getting his fill of Florida, Branden made his way back to Berks County and decided to start his own residential cleaning company. Armed with a single vacuum and a tenacity to succeed, Branden went door-to-door and signed his first contracts. This was the birth of Homecare Solution. Fast forward almost ten years, and Branden is actually letting clients go. Yep, you heard that right, we sit down and discuss if the lemon is worth the squeeze and how you should be doing the same for your business. Oh, did I mention he's starting the bee-keeping capital of Pennsylvania? It's all right here in this week's episode!

This week's flow is all about America. We just celebrated a long holiday weekend and unfortunately, many Americans question what there is to celebrate. Here's a quick rundown on why it's a privilege to be American, and why you should be proud and thankful you wake up every morning in the USA.

Dominic DeFreece is a financial advisor that served in our country's military. His experience in the US Army defines his daily life by utilizing the importance of preparation, serving your community, and the value of being part of a brotherhood - in the military or entrepreneurship. Individual goals were Dominic's main motivation when he first set foot in the financial world, but the shiny corner office clouded visions about what would be his main focus - family. Now being at his self-proclaimed halfway point, Dominic appreciates the relationships he cultivated while running his financial advisory firm. Each one has its own importance and value, but he's also come to the realization that the number person you should always take care of is yourself.