How'd I Get Here Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the essential do's and don'ts of professionalism that can shape your career trajectory. From dressing the part to maintaining your unique personality in the workplace, we cover how to strike the right balance. You'll also learn the key differences between a job and a career, and why that distinction matters. Plus, we tackle the tricky territory of mixing business with pleasure—when it's okay and when it's not. Tune in for practical tips that will elevate your professional presence and mindset.

In this inspiring episode of The How'd I Get Here Podcast, we dive deep into the journey of moving your career forward—even when the road feels uncertain. We explore how taking bold chances can lead to unexpected breakthroughs, why failure is often the best teacher, and how surrounding yourself with the right community can fuel your growth. Plus, we shine a light on the power of supporting youth and creating spaces where the next generation can thrive. Whether you're stuck in a rut, pivoting careers, or mentoring others, this episode is packed with real talk, practical tips, and the mindset shifts needed to turn setbacks into stepping stones.

Perseverance, resilience and motivated are a few words to describe Big Steve. In this weeks episode we have Steve Prohaska better known as "Big Steve" to talk about his book "From Orphan to Millionaire." Growing up in a orphanage in Colombia after his family was murdered in front of him, Steve was adopted by a family in the US and his life would turn around from there. Battling survivors guilt, getting in trouble as a youth and encountering many other obstacles Big Steve eventually had to turn his life around. That's exactly what he did. From buying stocks at a young age, owning multiple night clubs, buying property and other business endeavors Big Steve has become a millionaire that doesn't plan on stopping any time soon. His ascension has not come with no sacrifices but it has all been worth it and is apart of the journey. Tap to learn more about Big Steve's journey.

Welcome back to another episode, this week we look into one of the most common yet often misunderstood challenges many of us face—Imposter Syndrome. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a student, or someone climbing the corporate ladder, imposter syndrome can creep in at any stage of your life, making you feel like you're not good enough or that you don't deserve your success. It's that nagging feeling that somehow, you're faking it, even though you're performing at your best. But here's the truth: You're not alone.Imposter Syndrome doesn't discriminate. It affects people across all walks of life, even those who seem to have it all together on the outside. In this episode, we explore the root causes of imposter syndrome, its signs, and how to break free from the cycle of self-doubt. You'll learn why high achievers are often more prone to this feeling and how it can hold you back from fully embracing your potential. Tap in & learn with us!

As we step into a brand-new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on where we've come from and where we're headed. In this episode, we explore the power of starting from humble beginnings and how embracing your roots can fuel your growth and success. Whether you're launching a new project, setting ambitious goals, or simply seeking inspiration for the journey ahead, this episode reminds us that greatness is not defined by where we start, but by how we rise from the ground up.Join us as we dive into stories of resilience, overcoming challenges, and cultivating the mindset needed to transform small beginnings into powerful accomplishments.

In this weeks episode we have local R&B artist Bryan Alfredo to discuss two of the most crucial elements for achieving personal growth and success: motivation and consistency. Whether you're working towards a career milestone, trying to build better habits, or looking to improve your overall well-being, motivation and consistency are the driving forces that determine whether you'll stay on track or fall off course. Motivation is often viewed as the spark that ignites action. It's that initial burst of energy that makes you excited to take on a new project or goal. But motivation alone is not enough. In fact, it can be fleeting. Some days, you'll feel energized, and other days, you won't. That's where consistency comes into play. Bryan tells us his story of loss and overcoming hardships and how he's used that to propel his career. Tap into this weeks epsiode!

As we step into a brand-new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on where we've come from and where we're headed. In this episode, we explore the power of starting from humble beginnings and how embracing your roots can fuel your growth and success. Whether you're launching a new project, setting ambitious goals, or simply seeking inspiration for the journey ahead, this episode reminds us that greatness is not defined by where we start, but by how we rise from the ground up. Join us as we dive into stories of resilience, overcoming challenges, and cultivating the mindset needed to transform small beginnings into powerful accomplishments.

Making Friends as an Adult can be a hard task, especially when you have a busy schedule and already struggle with work like balance. That in addition to the idea of bringing new people into circles that already exist. As an adult you build more meaningful & intentional connections. You re-evalute old friendships and realize that the current phase of your life might require a different form of yourself and might cause some friendships to dwindle. That doesn't mean you love a friend any less it just means life is taking you in different directions. Each friend plays a different roll in your life and its making sure each friendship is purposeful. You can't save all your friends and can't take them all to the top but you can love them all and have healthy adult relationships. We also take a look into superstitions and how they play a role in our lives and the holiday season.

In this episode, we dive deep into the art of self-love—what it truly means, why it's essential for your mental and emotional well-being, and how you can begin practicing it every day. Join us as we explore practical strategies for building a compassionate relationship with yourself, including setting boundaries, cultivating self-awareness, and learning to embrace imperfections. Whether you're struggling with negative self-talk or simply looking for ways to nurture your inner self, this episode is filled with actionable tips and uplifting advice to help you prioritize your needs and develop a deeper sense of self-worth. Tune in and start your journey to a more loving and empowered you.

In this episode, we dive into the art of building a personal brand that stands out in today's competitive world—without compromising who you truly are. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone looking to make your mark, your personal brand is your story, and it's essential to tell it in a way that reflects your true self. We explore practical strategies for cultivating a brand that feels genuine while also resonating with your audience. It's easy to get lost in the mix of social media or trying to become something your brand requires but isn't who you are. Stay true to yourself and build your morals & values which will strengthen both your personal and professional brand. Tap into todays conversation and share with everyone!

It takes a lot of bravery to put your dreams and art into the world and it's even harder when you're producing and writing your own movie. TJ Noel Sullivan made his dreams come true by producing & writing “Midas”. It's a a heist comedy recorded right in our own backyard of Hartford, CT. TJ left what many would consider a dream job to make his dreams come true. This is only the beginning of his journey & it's only up from here.

Peace is something that should be protected at all costs. But sometimes that's easier said than done. When you throw relationships, friendships and work into the mix sometimes your peace will get sacrificed. You have to know when to protect yourself or let your guard down. You have to acknowledge the difference between protective your energy and protecting your peace as well as do they coincide or are they different. Tap in with our live episode that was one for the book!

We're at the halfway point of the year and I'm sure we've all had a lot of lessons learned. Jacob & Ash focus on some of their lessons learned this year. Learning to be independent is good and people should learn to be by themselves, but don't isolate yourself and not let people in at all. Sometimes it's easy not to ask for help because its easier to let yourself down than expect things from others. We know expectations are the root of all evil but they also are not fair because you don't know if those were the feeling or intentions that person had for themself. Most importantly learn to SHUUUUUUT UP. Can't always speak when in an emotional state or speak at all. We've learned a lot of lessons and hope to finish the year strong.

A while back a list came out about the best first date ideas.This can be a make or break when it comes to relationships. You have to give off a good first impression. What if you're boring or don't cover the bill. I think we're at the point in our lives where we have to be stimulated more than just sexually. But how do you guarantee that there's going to be a 2nd date. The first date can set memories and standards for the rest of the relationship. So where do you go for your first date? Do you do a flemings or something smaller like the cheesecake factory? Is it acceptable to pull up to the crib for a first date? Tap in to our convo to help make your first date a success.

We all take pride in who we are but sometimes don't even know where we come from. We don't know our background our even the roots of our culture. Hispanic Heritage month which is Sept 15 - October 15, but why? What exactly makes a Hispanic? Are they the same as a Latino? That too raises question what is this new term “LatinX” and where did these Afro Latinos come from? If I'm Hispanic can I say the “n word”? In today's episode we take a look into what it looks like being Hispanic.

School is mandatory but is it really effective in what and how they teach us. We often learn math that we're never going to use in the real world or history that is skewed to the American point of view. The school system programs us to obtain knowledge and pass tests but does it really prepare us for the real world? We should learn more about taxes, finances, self awareness & emotions and less about E=mc 2. In today's episode we take a dive into what school should've taught us in preparation for the real world.

Not all good leaders are liked but all of them are respected. As entrepreneurs we have to have a creative way to lead. We have to create a vision that not only we believe in but one that we can also get other people to believe in as well. Not only that but we have to find liked minded individuals who share common beliefs but have different strengths to form a successful team. Disagreements are healthy as well because you don't just want a yes man. Tap into this weeks episode on the life of successful entrepreneurs and strong leaders.

It's easy to lose sight of the importance of your physical and mental health. You often forget that your mind, body & spirit are all connected. When one waivers the other 2 do as well. Seamoss is one way to help boost and strengthen those components of life. However it starts with a strong sense of self and confidence. Mike Johnson Co-Owner of Mothers Moss is no stranger to obstacles in life, however his perseverance and drive help push through those obstacles. Tap in today to hear about his journey and how he always Gets It Done.

Discipline is the biggest form of self love and self care. But it is also one of the hardest forms of love to obtain. When you make a commitment, discipline is doing what you said you would do long after the mood you said it in has changed. We all have "body goals" and say there's a lifestyle we wish to live. But how many of us can stick to that lifestyle. We sat down with Manny from Breakthrough Nutrition to talk about committing to a healthier lifestyle and how to maintain a better life not only physically but also mentally and spiritually as well.

The life of an entrepreneur is not for the weak. Everyone has goals and dreams but not the courage to pursue them. That bravery and leap of faith is the first step of being an entrepreneur. To have self belief that whatever you can achieve and want to achieve is already yours. You have to be willing to sacrifice. Sacrifice time away from friends, family and even other things you want. I guess that is the life of any hard working person but there's much more to lose when you're self employed. You have to be willing to lose big to win big. Today's episode is for all the current entrepreneur's and future ones as well.

Success can be relative. It's a standard we set for ourselves but what is the true definition of success? We can be our toughest critics but that doesn't mean success is obtained. Just because we didn't reach our goal, does that mean success wasn't met? We have to enjoy the small victories and be present throughout a journey. That's how you appreciate success. Your path may change but your purpose won't. You are where you're supposed to be and you have to keep sight of that on your journey to success.

It's not often you see a black ghost hunter. The two don't in fact go together. We've all seen too many movies. But our guy Frank Thomas White is breaking stereotypes and berries by being one of if not the first black ghost hunter from Connecticut. We talk about how he stays true to himself while building a brand and provides great content for his followers. Sometimes the brand and the person are two separate entities and sometimes they're one. Tap in to find out how our guy makes both work!

Sometimes it's hard to face reality and really accept what is right in front of us. We create false realities because it is easier to live there than accept the obstacles and troubles of our everyday lives. Sometimes relationships, work, family and our own dreams and goals can make us hide from our own reality. But you have to take it on head first. We cannot compare what others have to what we don't and we cannot confuse what we want with where we are. Live in your present moment is key. but also striving for a better life and putting in that work is just as important. You can't romanticize or put things on a pedestal. Take things at face value. Accept your situation and push to where you want to be. Tap into this weeks episode!

Emotional intelligence is defined as "the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions" while also being aware and accepting the emotions and feelings of others. However does that mean you have to feel and take on the feelings of others? Emotions are a heavy weight to carry yet a lone take on those of another person. However to know yourself is to know your emotions and why you feel them. Therefore, to know someone else is to know and understand their feelings and emotions. Trauma and life lessons can help heighten ones emotional intelligence. The things we go through are simply not who we become but they contribute to what builds us up. Empathy and understanding are also two huge components. Tap into this weeks episode as we uncover our emotional intelligence!

We all have certain triggers but don't know where they stem from. Often our childhood trauma contributes to who we are as adults but we don't know why. We hide from the trauma or compartmentalize our issues. It's easier to hide from those ghosts instead of face them. As adults we must accept our past and learn to forgive. Sometimes we're forgiving ourselves and sometimes we're forgiving others. We don't always want to remember the bad times because the good ones are powerful too. Both contribute to our story. In this weeks episode we unpack some of our childhood traumas and how we got to where we are today.

Often times we look outside for the blame of our problems. However when it comes to colorism we have nowhere else to look but inward, at our own culture and people. Colorism is "prejudice or discrimination against individuals with a dark skin tone, typically among people of the same ethnic or racial group." But why do we kill ourselves? Or in this context why do we put our own people down? We sat down with Jovi, a beautiful queen to discuss this issue and her life experiences within it. There is no easy solution, but building community, presenting opportunity and supporting each other is a start. Tap in with this weeks episode!

You ever been in a situation and ask yourself how'd I get here? You ever end up ruining something good subconsciously but maybe that was what was meant to be or good for you? Self sabotage is a real thing. Sometimes we are not ready to face reality and sometimes we are not ready to move on so we ruin things to make it ok. Which in fact isn't ok. We have to face things head on. That brings on a new level of discomfort and nervousness. But nothing good comes from a place of comfort. When you're nervous that means you care. But you have to be sure to control those emotions and direct them in a positive manor. Tap in today on why we self sabotage and the emotions that come with it! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Sometimes we set boundaries and people can't handle it. But boundaries are pathway to peace. When you are a "hustlepreneur" you don't have time for distractions and sometimes those boundaries are necessary. Sometimes people you love are a distraction or are your biggest cage to your ambition and those boundaries are necessary. You can choose to be vocal about your moves or success, or move in silence. But sometimes being vocal can result in negative energy and bad wishes. So moving in silence might be your best bet although that may appear as being secretive. You have to protect your energy and peace at all costs. Both men and women of color go on emotional journeys but those journeys look very different. Men are expected to always be strong and never show emotions. Whereas women are expected to take on the load of every task and show little to no emotions. Both are impossible and a space for emotions to be shown is very necessary. Tap in as we discover these emotional journeys and how to navigate them best.

What exactly are societal expectations and why do they exist? Often we think of them as the “supposed to be life”. What society says we are supposed to do. Just go to college find a partner and job, get married and carry on with life. But millennials and every generation to come after them is not settling for this lifestyle. We jump from job to job and relationship to relationship and older generations don't agree or understand. We will not settle for mediocrity or unhappiness. Yes we could fight but self love is knowing when to fight and when to move on. Tap into this weeks episode as we take a dive into societal expectations and how to approach them!

Why is self representation so important? Is it as simple as how we're perceived and how we carry ourselves or is it more. And what dictates how we do those things. Often times people look at perception as a first impression, but we can all agree first impression can all be deceiving. Furthermore, you should impress your thoughts, expectations and feelings on a person based off how they look. This doesn't mean you should carry yourself in a manor that is less than what or who you are. You owe it to yourself to find a healthy balance of who you are and how you want to present yourself in a comfortable manor. At the end of the day that's what matters most that you are comfortable in your own skin being and doing what you want. Tap into this weeks convo on self representation!

Double standards are everywhere. They're in the workplace, in relationships and in everyday ordinary life. But why? We have expectations of what society expects. However sometimes expectations breed unrealistic expectations of people. These standards are not fair or realistic and we tend to put people down because of them. These unfair expectations set rules and restrictions on people that shouldn't exist. In reality in many ways some double standards exist due to old fashioned thinking and old traditions. We take a deep dive into all double standards and why they exist.

We all have a killer instinct in us. We all have that drive to win and succeed. But where does that determination come from. The thought of losing scares us but is the fear of losing greater than the desire to win? Do you compare yourself to your competition, thus resulting in low self-esteem or even more confidence? Your competitive nature will determine how you perform. Sometimes for the better if you thrive under pressure and sometimes for the worse if you crunch. It'll reveal who you are and show how bad you truly want something. We take a deep dive into our competitive nature and how it has gotten us to where we are today.

We all have a little bit of pettiness in us but we don't always know why. Is pettiness a trauma response? Are we just clapping back out of spite or bitterness? What is it that causes us to be petty? You're sitting down with 2 self proclaimed kings of pettiness but we go about it in different ways. We take a dive into the negative and positive aspects of pettiness and also the time and energy it takes to react in a petty manor. Tap into this weeks episode with the kings of pettiness. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

What exactly is cuffin season? Or big n**** season like Spencer likes to call it? Is it synonymous with dating or are they 2 different things? Very often we get into situation ships or entanglements during the cold months of the year that either lead to relationships or a mutual parting. That is what cuffin season looks like. However it is way more in depth and complicated than that. Of course nothing with feelings and emotions is that easy. Tap into our episode to learn the ropes of cuffin season and how to get out of it with your feelings unhurt.

Sometimes it's hard to focus when so much is going on. Your mind could be here there and everywhere. But you have to try & keep control of your thoughts, feelings and emotions. Throw a break up or a loss of a job in the mix and that could stir the mind even more. In this weeks episode we dive into relationships and more. When is the appropriate time to start dating after a break up? Are similarities important in a relationship? How do you know when to break up and more. Tap into this weeks episode!

Freedom isn't free. It might cost you your mental, your peace and many other things that you need to sacrifice. But freedom doesn't just cost a price. There's also financial freedom, spiritual, mental and more. How you get there and how you find it is up to you. Often times you have to put yourself first and get rid of situations that might hurt. But long term happiness is more important than temporary pain. Tap into this weeks episode!

Many times people confuse astrology and horoscopes. When in reality they don't realize horoscopes fall under the umbrella that is astrology. Astrology is more than just the study of the stars and planets, but also how they dictate who we become and the path that is set for us. Astrology has a connection to religion and is a part of our everyday lives. A strong sense of self and awareness goes a long way when speaking about astrology; as well as the connection we have to the universe. Tap into this weeks episode on astrology and more!

We all say we have boundaries but how do we set them? And by setting boundaries are you putting yourself in a box? What do your boundaries say about your trauma and what happens when you're triggered? We can't handicap ourselves by not protecting ourselves without boundaries however at some point we must heal and lower our guard and boundaries. Tap into this weeks episode to hear our take on this and much more! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Often we rely on other to build us up but is that necessarily their job or fair? We look towards people for reassurance but assurance has to happen before we can be reassured. We have to feel love, success and fulfillment within ourselves before we can feel it from other people. We must grow & be strong on our own accord before we turn to other or even try to do the same for others. If not we will feel burnout, unappreciated or unseen. Whether we're talking relationships, jobs or friendships we can't go into it unless we're ready because you'll quit before you even have it a true chance. Tap into this weeks episode to hear our take! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

We often look at Hartford, CT as a pitstop between Boston & New York with not much to offer. But you couldn't be more wrong if that is truly your opinion of our city. We have our own sense of fashion, an art scene, professional sports teams and way more to offer but it's all often overlooked. WHY? Is it because of the steady rise in gentrification or the lack of support from city officials? Is it because we don't support each other as a community? Or some uncovered reason that we're just not as "poppin" as the bigger cooler cities. At the end of the day Hartford has it and we take a deep dive with some of Hartford's finest to fully define what culture looks like and means for us. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

We're back and better than ever!! We're kicking off season 7 with somethings that have been strong on our mind and heavy on our hearts. Growth is inevitable and we hope that you welcome it with open arms. But what does that growth look like and how do we find comfort in uncomfortable places? We must value ourselves but how do we feel when people don't value us appropriately? Is that a reflection of ourselves or a reflection of them. And does this lead to change and how do we react to change? We talk about this and more in this weeks episode. Tap in and let us know what you think! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Man we don't know where to start, another season is almost coming to an end so we have to end it with the only way we know how and that's ANOTHER LIVE EPISODE! Yes the last one was such a success so we gotta do another one. Stay tuned for more details but April 29, 6-9 pm at Semilla Cafe 1283 Main St in Hartford, CT pull up on us and show up for another great conversation!

We all have insecurities, we all sometimes walk past a mirror and stare at ourselves or check ourselves out. The truth is we need to love ourselves and be comfortable in our own skin. Sometimes when we don't like what we see or pick at things that aren't really there. It's called "body dysmorphia." We're our toughest critic and think we're fat when in reality we're healthier than we think. Our mentality can drive us insane and to not love ourselves. The reality is anyone can have body dysmorphia, no matter how big or small you are. We really need to find a way to accept who we are and love ourselves for our flaws and all. Tap into this weeks episode as Sharon shares her story with us and we dive deep into this topic.

What is proper tip etiquette at a bar? Is it always 20% or does it depend on the amount of drinks and quality of service? We take a deep dive into bar life. From both perspectives as a bartender and a consumer. Also alcohol abuse is very easy to happen without even realizing. Is it a friends job to cut a friend off or is it on the person to seek the help they need. Alcoholism is not a anything to take lightly. We have to realize we have a problem and take the necessary steps in the right manor. Check out part 2 of our great conversation around drinking!!

Drinking culture in the US is different from that of other countries. Many times drinking is frowned upon, however everybody has their own vice and there's nothing wrong with drinking as long as you do it responsibly. However that word "responsibly" is subject to opinion. You can't judge someone because they have a vice. Sometimes people drink to cope, sometimes people drink to let go and have fun. Whatever it is don't judge and don't abuse. In this weeks episode and part 1 of our drink champs episode we take a look into drinking culture and everything it entails.

In today's society everything is in your face. It's hard to escape the ideas, thoughts and feelings of others. It's hard to not be judged or seen for everything you do. With that being said, everything and almost everyone has began getting cancelled. In one second you can be "cancelled" for something you've said and done. Often times we say society has gone too soft and sensitive and that's why people are quick to cancel others. Sometimes comedians, whose job it is to make people laugh walk a fine line but are cancelled as well. We take a look into cancel culture, comedy and more with local comedian Darren Rivera.

Sometimes you need a good old politic with the homies. We all need to be checked sometimes or pushed back on the right path. In this weeks episode we did that exactly. We held each other accountable and talk about what accountability looks like for ourselves and others. Growth is always good but how much? And how do you grow but stay true to yourself? Why do we get complacent? It is out of fear or is it out of comfort? We had a good old pow wow covering all this & more. Tap into this weeks conversation!

What does black history mean to you? What does it mean to be an African American in today's society? We are! We are Black History. We are what our ancestors dreamt of. We are the empowerment and education that stems from black history. In this weeks episode we end February with a conversation on everything black. From Black history, to current events and more. Tap into our Black History celebration. And if you had to ask, No raisins don't go in potato salad.

Many. times we mess up and aren't given second chances. Too often we're look down upon because we may have done something and that thing follows up around for the rest of our lives. We are not our mistakes, we are not what we did. People change, people grow & people learn. Today's episode is about second chances. Do people deserve them? How many times are you going to give someone a chance? Once you get that second chance what are you going to do with it? What is your mindset in the aftermath. We all deserve second chance & we all deserve a fair chance.

*Warning: EPISODE CONTAINS GRAPHIC LANGUAGE & CONTENT* People often argue the Valentine's Day is a capitalistic & commercialized holiday. Those people may or may not be wrong but that doesn't change the fact that love should still be celebrated. Yes we should love our significant others 24/7 365, but does it hurt to love them and show we appreciate them little more on February 14? How about men, should they be celebrated on Valentine's Day? We take a dive into the holiday and everything love entails. We try to define cheating and what the honeymoon phase looks like and more. Tap into this weeks Valentine's Day special.

Mental health is important & even further mental health in sports is equally important & never really talked about. We sat down with a professional soccer player Rashawn Dally & Lindsay Crevoiserat a collegiate track and field head coach to discuss the bounce back, anxiety & stresses of being an athlete or coach. How to cope and deal with these obstacles and more importantly how to succeed with them. Tap into this week's episode.