“Toast to the GoodFellas” is a podcast designed to pick the brains and talk with the creative minds of those who are from or have lived in SWFL. It’s tailored toward ANY topic of discussion (Social, Business, etc.). We encourage them to share their stories and provide advice on how to impact change…
In this episode, we had the pleasure of collaborating with the ladies of "Heels Off, Let's Talk" podcast. Nick and Allan discuss with them present day issues, women's rights, abortion, and various other topics. The conversation evokes a sense of passion when discussing how the future of the world is in our hands and what to expect for this generation. There are laughs, jokes, games, and serious emotional connections. Sit back, grab your favorite beverage and join the dialogue now, and let's toast to the ladies of Heels Off, Let's Talk. Connect with the Heels Off, Let's Talk podcast by visiting their website at: https://www.heelsoffletstalk.com/
In this episode, we had the privilege to meet with Gian Fortune, the passionate founder of the rapidly growing business, Green Bites Co. His determination is only equal to his love of our earth and the creatures that inhabit it. This impactful conversation takes us through the beginnings of a local business, through thought-provoking ideas about relevant issues such as climate change and animal rights, and even provides some important life lessons that anyone can learn from. Strap in, and let's toast to GREEN BITES. Connect with Greenbites by visiting their website at greenbitesgo.com.
What do you really want in life? Respect? Success? In this episode, we get to sit down with Rafael Feliciano, founder of Main Course Hospitality. Rafael is no stranger to awards as he was recently featured in Gulf Life Magazine for the 2021 Faces of SWFL issue. In this episode, he speaks to how lessons learned early in his life in which helped drive him on a path to success. Grab your favorite beverage and take a seat because this isn't an episode you want to miss. You can follow Rafael on social media @rafaeljfeliciano
In this episode, we get to sit down with athlete, trainer, and entrepreneur, Wyatt Griffith. Although Wyatt has traveled all over North America, he lives and breathes SWFL. Energy, ambition, wisdom and passion flow through this young man’s veins. Throughout this conversation Wyatt takes us through his journey that started as a high school star, receiving an invite to the NFL combine, and then becoming a strength coach at his own training facility. Through this conversation, we learn that Wyatt is not only a star athlete, but also brings a lot of wisdom and lessons with him. On the surface this is a conversation about sports, but in reality, this is a conversation about life and overcoming adversity. So, get your favorite beverage ready and let’s toast to STRENGTH. You can follow Wyatt Griffith on Instagram @santo_siete.
In this episode, we get to sit down with Wxnder Y, a local artist, songwriter, and entrepreneur here in SWFL. Creativity, Ambition, and Vision help oozes out of this young artist. As we sat down with Wxnder, he walked us through his journey into becoming an artist and helped paint a picture of what drives him to create his music. As he walks us through his latest project Emoceans it's evident that he crafts his work with precision. We also get in depth about some interesting music topics that will test your creative thinking. So get your favorite beverage ready and let's toast to MUSIC. You can follow Wxnder Y on Instagram, Spotify, and Apple Music @wxndery
Have you ever met someone whose positivity and poise can instantly change the energy in the room? Well, we got to meet such a person. In this episode we get to sit down with Malaina Mote, Author, Innovator, Motivator, and Founder of The Mixed Aspect; A community for people of mixed race to come together, uplift one another, and unite as one. In this episode, we get to know Malaina as an author, community leader, and really pick her brain about some of the issues our communities face today. Some people are just built differently, and you will be able to see throughout this episode that Malaina brings a sense of authenticity into everything she does. So click play, sit back, put your cups up, and lets toast to UPLIFTING. You can follow Malaina and The Mixed Aspect on Instagram @themixedaspect
It's our quarter-century episode here on the pod and we get the pleasure to sit down with Juslin aka Jay, founder of Unovision LLC. Jay is a local painter, entrepreneur, and content creator. We get to chat about what drove him to create Unovision, his passions, and motivations to be successful. If you ever wondered what it takes to go after your own passions, tune into this episode and hear from Jay himself. Get your favorite beverage ready and lets toast to CREATIVES! You can follow Jay on Instagram @unovisioncreate_
On this episode we get to sit down with the Founder of The Industry of Bonita, Ken Delaney. The Industry is a brand new coworking space located in Bonita Springs, Florida. With the focus of this space being centered around the idea of building something that drives an industry, SWFL in prime position to thrive. During this interview, Ken walks us through his journey as an entrepenuer, what motivated him into creating The Industry, and what his vision for this space will be going further. This is a episode you do not want miss. So go crack open your favorite bevarage of choice and lets toast to The Industry! To learn more about The Industry of Bonita Springs follow them on social media: Instagram: @theindustrybonita Facebook: The Industry of Bonita
In this episode we sit down with Jordan Paris, host of the podcast, Growth Mindset University. GMC is a podcast a created with the focus of learning directly from some of the most successful people on the planet. Jordan is the Founder and Creative Director of Trend Up Media, a podcast agency that produces podcasts to help businesses grow in both profit and influence. We talked with this young influencer about his journey to become host of Growth Mindset University and also take a dive into his perspective on topics such as BLM and the value of college. This one promises to be full of interest.
In this episode, we get to sit down and chat with Cameron Thomas @killahcam1 , founder of Kanvis Media and his team Julian @justju____ , & Deon @zamenbey . Kanvis Media is a local media agency that is transforming the landscape of media with its fresh take on connecting and sharing stories that create new perspectives. We dive into some real conversations about the world of media, our society's role in capturing reality, and the importance of building the right team and more. Let's kick back with your favorite drink of choice, enjoy this motivating and intriguing conversation, and lets toast to PERSPECTIVE. You can contact and follow Cameron and Kanvis Media on: Instagram: @kanvismedia YouTube: Kanvis Media
In this episode, we had the pleasure to sit down with Political Scientist/Philospher, local comedian, promoter, and marketer Ronaldo "Chico" Guido. Chico is an active member of the SWFL community and has served our nation's armed forces along with getting his bachelor's degree in political science & philosophy. We talked Black Lives Matter, the local comedy scene, and some other cultural stereotypes he encountered that ties into today’s world we live in. We also got to talk about some other topics that currently cloud the political space. This isn't an episode you want to miss. Brace yourselves as we somewhat go down the rabbit hole! So grab your favorite beverage and give a toast to CHANGE. You can follow Chico on IG & Facebook @ronaldo_chico_guido
Sex, Love, and Pleasure are all things that often times are kept behind closed doors. In the United States talking about these topics tends to carry a lot of controversy instead of education. In this episode, we sit down and chat with Keshea Kamaria a local Intimacy and Pleasure coach, Birth Doula, and Yoga Instructor. In this conversation, we hear Keshea's story of how she came to be called 'The Vegan Vagina", why education on sex and intimacy can lead to empowerment, and the importance of learning your body. So go ahead and grab your favorite beverage and lets Toast... to SEX EDUCATION! You can follow Kesha on Instagram at @theveganvaginaaa and her website at https://www.theveganvagina.com/
Cosmetics, Beauty, and Apparel are all industry channels in which generate millions of dollars all over the world. Jumping into these industries headfirst would scare away most people. However, we got to sit down with and chat with a fearless entrepreneur who is up for the challenge. Davina Taylor, owner of Vina's Cosmetics, Divafy Beauty, and Vina's Closet. In this 17th episode, we got to chat with Davina and find out what motivates her to run these businesses, How these businesses come to be created, and what strategies she takes to make her passion a career. So let's kick back, with your favorite drink in your hand, listening on your favorite platform, and let's TOAST to COSMETICS You can follow Davina on: Website: www.vinascosmetics.com IG: @vinascosmetics Facebook: Vina's Cosmetics
We want to hear about your personal story/business idea. Let’s work together to drive great content and drive influence on our community!
Films, Books, and Education They keep you cultured, literate, and educated. Our latest guest, Antwon Lindsey has his presence in all three phases. Born and raised in Liberty-City, Miami, Antwon Lindsey is a filmmaker, published author, and teacher. This fellow FGCU alumnus has been making big moves in SouthWest Florida and all over the nation. We sat down with the talented filmmaker and talked about his book, Reticent: A Somber Soul in Despair, his film Colour of Love and his upcoming projects. This conversation takes you through his motivation behind his work, How he got started in the industry, and how SWFL had a role in his development. Kick back with your favorite drink of choice, enjoy this inspiring and intriguing conversation, and lets toast to FILMMAKERS! You can contact and follow Antwon through his website: https://www.antwonlindsey.com/
Have you ever felt a time where things just didn't feel right? Like something was missing from your life? Maybe you have a passion or idea that you have been putting off for just the right moment to come along? Then you are not going to want to miss this episode! We have the pleasure of talking with Taylor Grant, fellow FGCU alumni, and author of the book, The Birthing of a Promise: an Appointed Kairos Moment. In this 15th episode, we discussed her new book, what the book is about, how it can be applied, and her role in the Southwest Florida Community. Her book, The Birthing of a Promise: An Appointed Kairos Moment is available on Amazon now. Go check it out. Let's kick back, with your favorite drink in your hand, listening on your favorite platform, and let's TOAST to the authors. You can follow Taylor on: IG: @taylorcgrant Facebook: Taylor Grant YouTube: TaylorcGrant Book: https://www.amazon.com/Birthing-Promise-Appointed-Kairos-Moment/dp/1948581590/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=the+birthing+of+a+promise&qid=1588165274&sr=8-1
Dancehall, Reggae, Soca, & Island vibes. Not extremely popular genres in Los Angeles, California. Born in the Cayman Islands, heritage from Trinidad & Tobago, & raised in Southwest Florida, Chris Catlin moved to LA to expand his music horizon, and expand his network. On this 14th episode, not only was this our first video recorded podcast (remote), but we discussed several things in regards to today's music industry, life in LA compared to SWFL, and shared some funny stories! His new track with OR1ON "Gyal" is streaming on ALL music platforms and we give you a streaming of it at the end of our episode. Let's kick back, with your favorite drink in your hand, listening on your favorite platform, and let's TOAST to the island vibes of Chris Catlin. You can follow Chris on: IG: @streamchriscatlin Facebook: Christian Catlin
They say when there is a full moon, a Saiyan's energy tends to multiply tenfold. We had the opportunity to talk to the one and only Victor Matos AKA Saiyajinka. He is a local artist (painter, designer), entrepreneur, and overall creative genius here in Southwest Florida. Victor takes us through his mindset when creating art, planning events, and maneuvering through the creative community. This is an episode you do not want to miss. So kick back with your favorite drink of choice, enjoy this comical and inspiring conversation and lets toast to THE ARTS! You can contact and follow Victor on Instagram @saiyajinka
FACIALS! Yes, FACIALS. They keep you clean, sparkly, and are extremely healthy for you. Born in Colombia, raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and now living in Fort Myers, FL, Andrea Salazar had an amazing journey to become a Skin Care educator and specialist here in Southwest Florida. We sat down with the talented, hard-working Colombiana and talked about her inspiring immigration story, the stereotypes of skin care, and certain techniques to better your current skin condition. Kick back with your favorite drink of choice, enjoy this comical and intriguing conversation, and lets toast to SKIN CARE. You can contact and follow Andrea on Instagram @andrea_skincare101 Educator at The Salon Professional Academy Ft. Myers Skin care specialist at Hideout Boutique
Sneakers? Great apparel? And you get to deal with not only an intelligent business man, but a great human being? This is what Andrew Torres, Mr Atomic Kicks, embodies in his line of work. In comparison to many sneaker plugs out there, we saw a huge difference in “Atomic Kicks”, and it was important for us to showcase this to our fans. In this episode, we start off my giving our own tributes to Kobe Bryant and explaining later what him and what the Mamba Mentality meant to us. Drew gets into his early childhood, his passion and love for the sneaker game, and his lines of businesses. Kick back, with your favorite drink of choice, wearing your favorite pair of sneakers, and let’s toast to this emotional, but as always influential conversation.
To ALL our sweet tooth ambassadors out there, we want to give you a fair WARNING before you tune in to this one. It will probably give you the urge to scatter to your nearby grocery store and purchase an outrageously large amount of sweets. Favi Mullings is the owner of Favi Cakes LLC, the one stop shop for all things deliciously sweet, from cookies to cakes, and everything in between. Join us in this hilarious, influential, and intriguing conversation that discuss Favi's dessert business, the trials and tribulations that have led her to where she is currently at, and we uncover some strange dessert obsessions from the hosts. This time around, grab your favorite drink of choice, with your favorite piece of dessert, and bless your soul by toasting to Favi Cakes LLC. For catering, contact Favi (239) 313-1429/favi@favicakes.com/favicakes.com
Don't you hate it when you need to get somewhere urgently, and can't find parking? Do you want to know about a solution for that AND have the opportunity to make easy money? We had the pleasure of interviewing the founder of the Val- A Peer to Peer Parking application, Will Buno. This episode takes you inside the mind of a young and passionate entrepreneur who has been on a mission to introduce the area to the concept of peer to peer parking. We talk about how this outstanding app was developed, the mindset needed to be a successful entrepreneur, and how has SWFL contributed to the development of this idea. Kick back, grab your favorite beverage of choice, and let's toast to Will and Val-A. Follow @parkvalatoday on Instagram and Twitter. You can download the app now in your App store "Val-A".
Ernel Grant is the founder of "Poetz Realm" which is an open-mic platform on Monday nights here in Fort Myers, FL. Poetz Realm is a haven for creatives that want to showcase their talent, and an opportunity for locals to network and promote their brand. We sat down with Ernel and discussed the Southwest FL culture as a whole and his opinion on it, how he maintains a work/life balance, the battle of being introverted, and the importance of creating love for one another. So raise your glasses up, and let's make a toast to Poetz Realm.
Reaching Athletes With Education (R.A.W.E recruits) covers and exposes young basketball and athletic talent in your local community here in the state of Florida. We had the honor of sitting down with co-founder Jerome Alexander Reed I to discuss his passion and motivation into what drove him to start this journey and how he wants to help young talent thrive in their community. Jerome is a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University (Fort Myers, FL) and was heavily involved in organizations throughout his tenure there. Special accolades: Two-Time FGCU Alumni Awards Nominee, 2019 Gainesville Chamber of Commerce Member, 2017 Gainesville Impact Award Recipient. Sit back with a glass of champagne, and listen to this powerful, and influential interview!
We had the opportunity to interview a founder of Gulf Coast Leisure "GCL" Marco "M" Cruz. Gulf Coast Leisure is an Art and Entertainment company, of young talented creatives who all believe they can make SWFL a better place through quality events and positive community engagement. M takes us through his vision of GCL, what the company represents to the community, and how passion fuels his work ethic to make his vision a reality. Follow the GCL Movement by following their facebook page. GCL currently hosts 2 events a month in the River District Area of Downtown Fort Myers: - Art & Poetry Networking Event (APNE), held on the 3rd Thursday of the month at the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center at 2301 First Street - Speak My Peace (SMP) Open Mic & Lounge is held the first Saturday of every month at The American Legion Post 38 at 1875 Jackson St, Fort Myers, FL 33901 Speak My Peace (SMP) Open Mic & Lounge, Art & Poetry Networking Event (APNE)
We interview a local South West Florida music artist by the name of CoolKidCannon. This interview outlines the mentality of a local artist trying to make quality work while building a brand. CoolKidCannon talks about his journey to SWFL, The hustle of marketing, and how SWFL continues to help build his brand. Follow him on social media @coolkidcannon
Jonathan Jimenez is a barber/hairstylist and Owner of Medical Prosthesis and Hair Designers. Not only does he cut men’s hair, but he also has a large clientele of women that style their hair at his shop weekly. Other than the fact that he’s Allan’s barber, we brought him onto the podcast to discuss his journey in opening up his new shop, and how it differentiates from the competition. Johnny also talks about the daily positives and negatives of being your own boss, his motivating factors, thoughts on the barber industry, and provides great advice for young entrepreneurs and barbers/hairstylists.
We had the opportunity to sit with Shay Farrell, a local artist, poet, and event planner who resides in SWFL. She has been involved in the growth of the local art community for over 3 years and plans on traveling the surrounding areas to grow her performing career.
It's interesting to see the type of people we meet that move to Southwest Florida, or Florida in general. Usually their reasons are the following: "The weather", "School", "New job", "My family lives here". But in Brandon's case, his reason in moving here was out of the norm that you would expect. We brought Brandon in to share his unique story on why he moved here, and what he has experienced so far. His story will give you chills. Brandon also discusses his faith beliefs, the risk it all mentality, helping people with addiction, the importance of a diet, and what success should be defined as. We hope his story can open help open up the minds to our listeners and break certain barriers we have with one another.
Vanessa is an accredited public relations professional and a food marketing guru of the Food Idea Group, Where to Eat 239, and Sizzle SWFL. Vanessa talks about her journey here in SWFL, social media marketing, and her thoughts on the powerful impact social media has on someones personal life.