In The Weeds Show

On this episode we sat down with serial entrepreneur Sean Evans and talked about the massive weeds he's fought through to build the successful companies he operates today. Sean began his entrepreneurial career at a young age in college. Eventually selling that first business and enjoying a short-lived retirement in his 20's! He continued on to his next venture and discussed with us the importance of having "stretch goals" in place. He even shared a couple of his own, one of which includes a half billion dollars in annual sales for his company gloves.com! Get out your pen & paper so you can be sure to take notes on this episode! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond. Jim has been involved in politics for nearly 20 years. Eight of which were spent as the Mayor of San Marcos and his most recent years as the District 5 Supervisor in San Diego. Throughout the pandemic Jim has fought for small businesses all over the county. His battle against California’s draconian policies has created what he described as “the most challenging year of his life.”This was a very unique story of being in the weeds, but it’s one of the hardest jobs we’ve seen someone take on!Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of our continued series “Surviving The Pandemic”, we sat down with Andy Davis and Justin Jachura. Both of these men are successful entrepreneurs who own & operate a portfolio of restaurants and bars in the North County area of San Diego. Though technically their companies are competitors, it has not stopped Andy and Justin from working together during the most challenging times in each of their 20 years in the business. Even developing a movement known as #CommunityCommitted that has brought all business owners in Carlsbad together. With the help of a local law firm, they have reopened many of the struggling venues in Carlsbad as a daily peaceful protest against the unrealistic State and Federal policies. They spare no detail in explaining the toll this past year has taken on their businesses and their hundreds of employees. Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of our continued series “Surviving the Pandemic” we sat down with Derek Marso, the owner of Valley Farms Market. Derek is a third generation owner with a jam packed resume! He holds an impressive athletic career, playing football at Kansas State University and eventually making his way to the NFL. But he knew early on there was going to be more to his story than “Derek the football player.”Since taking over the business, he’s grown the Valley Farms brand ten fold. Adding their second location a year ago with plans to open two other new stores in 2021! He’s a no-nonsense owner with a supreme level of empathy and drive. Derek is also a dedicated father, husband, fellow podcaster, and even a certified cicerone!We discussed the initiatives his company took as an “essential business” during the pandemic, to help support their community and the many struggling small businesses in San Diego. His perspective on leadership and his commitment to spreading love is a much needed message everyone should hear.Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this new format of our show "Surviving The Pandemic" - we sat down with PJ Busalacchi, the owner of Barbusa - a Modern Sicilian restaurant that has become a staple destination of Little Italy in downtown San Diego! The Busalacchi family are true pioneers in the hospitality industry and have been opening successful restaurants since the 1980's! PJ walked us through the toll the pandemic has taken on Barbusa, their other restaurants, and his 120+ employees. Some of which have worked for his family for over 30 years. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this new format of our podcast, we visited business owner Artem Sharoshkin to discuss how the 2020 pandemic has impacted him and his company. The first most noticeable observation is we were sitting inside his EMPTY multi-million dollar gym located in the heart of downtown San Diego. Artem is the CEO of The Boxing Club, which has 3 locations in San Diego, employing 100+ people. He held nothing back when discussing the toll this has taken on his business, his employees, and himself. We hope this helps bring attention and humanize the people suffering as collateral damage to the covid-19 pandemic. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with CJ Martin - Founder and CEO of one of the fastest growing CrossFit brands - Invictus! CJ took us back to his early days of inheriting resiliency through his family, and how it has ultimately played a role in building a powerful online and in-person brand. He shared his experience as an athlete, an attorney, a coach, a husband, father, and entrepreneur. His success definitely did not happen overnight or without a lot of hard work! Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Johan Engman, who has quite literally reinvented the way breakfast is served in Southern California! Starting his entrepreneurial journey in true "burn the boats" fashion. Johan opened his first restaurant in 2008 with a shoe-string budget of his own money saved from previous years washing dishes and serving tables. We retraced his steps that led to today, where he now operates one of the largest restaurant groups, Rise & Shine Hospitality, built from that first location. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Alex Montoya. Originally born in Colombia with a birth defect that left him missing both his arms and right leg, Alex was faced with adversity from literally day one. But his resume and list of accomplishments shows the true mantra he lives by, "Don't focus on what you're missing in life, focus on what you have." Alex earned a degree from Notre Dame, and was entered into the San Diego Unified School District Hall of Fame! He has gone on to become a successful author with five published books, as well as a motivational speaker - with speaking engagements in front of massive stages including Google, Harvard, Nasa, TedX and many others. This was an inspiring conversation we hope you all enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Edwin Paredes, who's work schedule typically places him in a new part of the globe every week! Edwin is the President, and one of the original members of DJCity - the world's leading subscription-based digital record pool. We discussed the many businesses & partnerships he's cultivated over the years, while also enjoying many of his crazy stories that came with building a brand that has changed the music industry! Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Will Senn, the Founder of California's leading cannabis retail brand - Urbn Leaf. As an entrepreneur who's had to fight through nearly two decades of legal & political red tape to build the empire he's built, Will came bearing stories of his journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat!We covered everything from battling meningitis, getting kicked out of middle school, failing his first business in Cabo San Lucas, to now employing 400+ people and growing everyday! Turn the volume way up on this one! Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Sumeet Parekh, who has built one of California's largest commercial real estate investment firms. With offices in San Diego, Oakland, and Los Angeles, he's grown the business from his very first deal, to now exceeding 75 major acquisitions. We discussed his glory days in New York, his current days in quarantine, and how he even made one of his best purchases with a handshake and napkin!Sumeet served on the Board of Directors for San Diego Downtown Partnership, and is extremely committed to the well being of the city, as he is one of the few natives left.His perspective on the past, present, and future outlook of our state & country is one everybody should hear.Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with DJ Gay, a San Diego sports legend who's name is proudly held inside the SDSU Hall Of Fame. We covered DJ's entire sports career, back to his first time picking up a basketball. And even talked about a sport few people know he competed in - Muay Thai!DJ currently operates the largest youth basketball program in San Diego -- called The Bulldogs. And recently accepted the Head Coach position for the prestigious La Jolla Country Day Varsity basketball team.He is a living example of how hard work & discipline can get you to any finish line! Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Jason Conforti - a Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorney in America. His passion for every single client's future livelihood is what separates Jason from the pack, and we go into great detail on how involved he gets. Outside the courtroom, Jason has two children that keep him on his toes, an incredible teammate and wife who is also a respected lawyer, and a podcast he is growing more everyday. His ambition & drive truly is contagious!Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Marco Champion, a young successful entrepreneur with one of the most unique stories on how he launched his first business. Marco endured a life-changing accident at age 15 that doctors told him would leave him in a wheelchair the rest of his life. Defying all odds, he dove headfirst into his physical & mental recovery, eventually getting back on his feet, and in his recovery birthed his first business - Motiv. He’s gone on to launch his newest business, iLegendz, while also engaging in public speaking, and is even working on his first book. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Matt Faulk - the founder and CEO of Basic Agency. Year after year Basic has consistently taken home awards at the annual Webby Awards -- which is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet. Matt and his team have been working with big brand clients like Google, Nixon, REI, Airbnb, Apple, Under Armour, Patagonia, Beats by Dre, and many many others.We went back in the weeds and talked about his early days of couch surfing, being kicked out of school, riding bmx bikes professionally, and even how he secured one of their first big clients by helping a stranger parallel park their car. These are the stories we built this show for! Hope you enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Steve Kramer. Originally from Georgia, "Kramer" has reached the top of radio airwaves in Florida, Arizona, and eventually right here in San Diego. But now he's stepped into the podcast world and launched his own show, Certified Mama's Boy, sharing the stage with his own mother and quickly earning 250k downloads and #15 rank in the country on Podcast Mag's Hot 50 charts! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Billy Moore, a lifelong leader in the community and President/CEO of Anybody Can Youth Foundation. His charity has worked with inner-city youths since the 1960's, while he also works personally with our local police department. He shared his thoughts on our current world's issues from the BLM movement, police reform, and general inequalities. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we welcome on Aljamain Sterling - one of the top fighters in the UFC. Aljo has fought his way through the entire Bantamweight division and his next scheduled fight will be for the world championship belt. Growing up as one of 20 siblings & half siblings in Long Island NY, he shared his challenging journey to get where he is today - a professional athlete, entrepreneur, investor, role model, and student of the game!Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Arizona native Ryan Anderson. Ryan is a 16 year veteran of the Phoenix Fire Department. We discussed the amount of growing he's experienced after years of working as a firefighter, and managing all the things you see on the job. But we really dove into the incredible amount of knowledge he's gained in human optimization, consciousness, and balancing a healthy mind & body outside of work. Ryan's perspective on life is absolutely one of a kind. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we welcomed to the show a very successful entrepreneur, author, and educator - Kayleigh Clark. As the co-Founder and traveling voice of CLEARstem Skin Care, she is a textbook example of building a brand from a personal passion. She shared her journey that led her here; of which included working for the NBA, writing her first published book, managing speaking engagements, and even educated us on the benefits of adding liver to your daily diet!Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this very special episode we sat down with three successful entrepreneurs whose combined resumes make for a powerful discussion! The goal was to give our audience an unfiltered look into how Covid-19 has impacted the past, present and future of 4 vulnerable industries - Hotels, Restaurants, Real Estate, & Fitness.Matt Greene, the Executive VP of Operations for Evolution Hospitality. Jimmy Langley, the CEO and Founder of Empress Investments, LDG Commercial, and Resident Brewing. And Artem Sharoskin, the CEO and Founder of The Boxing Club Sport & Fitness. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with a very talented entrepreneur, athlete and philanthropist. George describes how his many years spent trading on Wall Street eventually led him to the opposite side of the country and organizing his philanthropic run across America from San Diego to New York City. We spoke in detail about his unreleased documentary that captured every step of the journey! His dedication to raising money and awareness for military veterans suicide got the support from thousands of people in towns along his run, including our then President Barack Obama! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with brothers Ryan and Andrew Beltran - founding owners of Original Grain. We discuss how their paths passionately aligned after one’s service in the military and the other traveled abroad in China. Eventually bootstrapping an online fashion brand that has sky rocketed it’s success. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Ryan Williams - current owner of Industry Threadworks. And discuss his journey through the military, business, marriage, and how he strives to live a fully optimized lifestyle. Ryan's perspective is very inspiring and a product of his challenging the normal pathways of life. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Michael Guerra; owner of The Magnolia Park in Los Angeles. Raised by immigrant parents with an inspiring story, Miki grew up with a “find the way no matter what” mentality. Starting as a quick-success story in real estate, and even an quicker decision that it wasn’t the future for him. Miki shares the steps he took into starting his successful online & storefront retail chain brand - The Magnolia Park. As well as his continued success as one of LA’s well known DJ’s and the Host of an emerging podcast series - MikiDzShow. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sit down with Courtney Henderson; owner of Hendo Studios in San Diego. Growing up as a military brat, Courtney has lived all over the world. We discussed one of the most interesting places he spent time in --- Japan. Courtney is a self-taught photographer, or as he put it - a YouTube University graduate, who has shot photos for the most elite athletes in mixed martial arts - some including Conor Mcgregor, Ronda Rousey, Jon Jones, and Dominick Cruz. We talked about his first days picking up a camera, knocking on local mma gyms doors to shoot for free, being contracted by Monster Energy and traveling the world, and eventually leaving it all to start his own business. Enjoy! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Frankie has almost 20 years experience in the radio industry. Starting his career on the East Coast, working in entry level radio advertising sales and sneaking into studios at night to practice his On-Air routine. He’s been heard on the radio airwaves in nearly every market across the United States. And this year was reunited with a past In The Weeds guest, Geena The Latina, as co-hosts of San Diego’s #1 morning show on Channel 93.3. Be prepared to hear Frankie’s insane work ethic that got him to where he is today! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We took a slightly different approach to this episode. Alain, Peter, and Sergio have a round table discussion going over all the guests we had in our inaugural year with our favorite clips from the actual episodes. Listen in as we go through all of our favorite moments from each episode, and what we took away from each guest's story. We had a blast getting In The Weeds going in 2019, and we're just getting started. We have a ton of amazing news for 2020 and can't wait to show you guys. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

"Life's Cool". At least that's the tagline for San Diego County's most well known magazine & lifestyle brand - PACIFIC. And we got to sit down with the Founder & (former) Editor In Chief - David Perloff. Though the brand he started from scratch is the epitome of Southern California living, the journey of getting there was far from. David took us deep into the weeds with the many ups & downs of his business, and how it ultimately led him to the incredible position he's in today, personally & professionally. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Would you ever guess an internationally recognized fashion brand, with millions in revenue and Xmas sweater designs of humping reindeer, would be founded by a lawyer & a dentist? Well we sat down with former lawyer and co-Founder of Tipsy Elves, Evan Mendelsohn - to hear his crazy journey. Of the countless nights spent working after a full day at the law firm, bringing this idea to life. To his very detailed recap of their experience on the ultra famous television series - Shark Tank. Hearing this story will make you rethink the ideas you may have had in the past that got shot down. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Where do mega entrepreneurs & philanthropists come from? Well in Jimmy's case it's a small town outside northern California we'd never heard of, called Fort Ross. Growing up in a trailer park with his mom & brother, living a notch below poverty, and spending most days never being home to see daylight hours. Jimmy's story of being In The Weeds dates back further than most guests we sit down with. But he's built a life now that most dream of; owning several successful businesses, while also being committed to a life of philanthropy and dedication to his family. Buckle up for this one. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode, we sat down with the former Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight Champion - Phil Davis. We went back to his adolescent days growing up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and discussed the sacrifices and commitments it took to become a four time All American wrestler at Penn State. And how that was his springboard to becoming one of the top names in the UFC and Bellator. Phil's sense of humor generated a lot of laughs, and will make you forget he is one of the most dangerous men on the planet. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode we sat down with Jeff Fenster, Founder of California's fastest growing quick service food chain, Everbowl. A true serial entrepreneur whose built several successful businesses off the foundation of hard work and leveraging what he calls "relationship capital." The pace Jeff keeps is unparallel, and we get a glimpse behind the tips & tricks he's used to scale in a very competitive industry. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of In The Weeds, we got to sit down with Artem Sharoshkin. Former professional Muay Thai fighter turned business entrepreneur, you'll learn how he earned the nickname The Russian Experiment. We went back to his childhood days growing up in Russia, and talked through his harsh transition moving over to the US. How he found himself fighting in the largest arenas across the world, including Thailand, Japan, Armenia, and many more. To eventually owning one of the largest fitness & combat sports brands in Southern California. Artem's story is truly inspiring and a testament to applying hard work through the use of a fighter's mentality to achieve success. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Chase Fisher - Founder of Blenders Eyewear See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Episode 2 : On this episode of In The Weeds, we sit down with radio & TV personality, Geena Aguilar - aka “Geena The Latina”. Geena is one of the most recognizable names in San Diego & LA County, with almost two decades of experience in the entertainment industry. She truly started her story In The Weeds as an intern at the local radio station and worked her way onto radio and tv stations up & down the coast. She has incredible stories behind the scenes with A-List celebrities, while simultaneously starting her own non profit movement - Girls Empowerment. Listen to hear how she went from growing up in “the hood” of Los Angeles, to earning her own celebrated day with the City of San Diego. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of In The Weeds, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dan Fulkerson. The founding partner of Batta Fulkerson Law Firm, based in San Diego. Voted the #1 Personal Injury firm in 2018. Which last year alone settled over fifteen million dollars in cases for their clients. But more importantly donated over $100,000 to nearly two dozen local non-profits in just last year alone. And provided 250,000 meals to local families. Listen to his journey from growing up on a ranch in a small town outside Boise, Idaho, to valeting cars while finishing law school and grad school simultaneously. Walking away from his first position as a lawyer making over $1 million dollars a year, starting from scratch, and becoming one of San Diego's most influential name. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.