Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode, filmmaker and business owner Brian Kuenn joins Paul Martinez for an open exchange about faith, fatherhood, and finding purpose in chaos. From Best Buy coworkers to family men and creators, the two reconnect to explore questions many men are silently asking: Why do we drift from faith? Can success and spirituality coexist? How do we lead our families when we feel lost ourselves? Brian shares how he balances business, belief, and burnout as a new father while running Kuenn Productions with his wife. Paul opens up about spiritual doubt, judgment, and his journey back to clarity. 🎧 Topics Include: The “drifter” mindset from Outwitting the Devil The role of distractions in spiritual life How men lead (or get lost) in fatherhood and business Breaking down storytelling and film structure Daily habits that keep you spiritually and mentally grounded 0:00 - Reconnecting & Old Best Buy Days 3:05 - Why So Many People Drift from Faith 7:30 - Idolatry, Distractions & The Phone in Our Pocket 13:50 - Paul’s Dream of Walking on Water 18:00 - The Tension Between Obedience & Enjoyment 21:10 - Hypocrisy in Modern Christianity 26:20 - David’s Story & Grace in the Bible 30:00 - Faith, Chaos, and Fatherhood 35:00 - Study Bibles, YouTube Sermons & The Bible Project 38:30 - Building a Business with Your Spouse 43:00 - Turning Hobby into Career: Short Films & Cinematics 46:30 - Storytelling 101: Conflict, Action, Resolution 49:00 - Final Reflections on Faith, Creativity & Growth Follow Brian: 🎥 Instagram: @KuennProductions Website: https://www.kuennphotovideo.com/ 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com YouTube: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode of The Open Exchange with Paul Martinez, Tyler Gonzales returns to share the raw truth behind his transformation from a struggling young business owner to a community leader balancing faith, family, sobriety, and success. We dive deep into Tyler's personal manifesto — a self-written guide that helps him stay grounded through the chaos of fatherhood, business ownership, and past trauma. Tyler opens up about facing alcohol abuse, burnout, and criticism, while building TMG Disaster Services into one of the most trusted names in emergency plumbing and mitigation services. We discuss: How to lead others by first leading yourself The danger of chasing dopamine through money or substances What it means to be a present father while working 20-hour days Using faith and mindset shifts to rebuild from setbacks The power of daily habits, mentors, and self-discipline Whether you’re an entrepreneur, father, or someone on a journey of self-discovery, this episode will challenge you to go deeper, stay consistent, and redefine what success truly means. 0:00 – Writing a Personal Manifesto 2:00 – Struggling with Faith & Alignment 4:45 – Detaching Success from Money 7:00 – The Importance of Mental Health in Leadership 10:00 – What Tyler’s Daily Routine Looks Like Now 12:30 – Building a Team That Can Operate Without You 14:00 – Balancing Family, Fatherhood & Business 17:00 – Getting Honest About Mistakes & Alcohol Abuse 21:00 – Facing Yourself: The Power of Reflection 25:00 – Kids, Legacy & the Myth of Work-Life Balance 30:00 – Why Tyler’s Still Pushing Himself Hard 34:30 – Mentors, Systems & Staying Grounded 38:00 – The Role of Faith & Spiritual Health 41:00 – Final Thoughts on Growth, Branding & Impact 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Paullyymm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! Men are silently battling pain—and this episode unpacks why that has to change. Jordan Smith "Smitty", host of Daily Dimensions Podcast and a mental health advocate, shares his personal story of father wounds, faith, and forgiveness. We talk about trauma, therapy, grief, the impact of mentors, and his mission to get 500 men into therapy by 2030. 🎧 In this raw and emotional conversation, we explore: – Growing up without a father – How unresolved trauma shapes adulthood – Why therapy isn’t enough without action – The purpose behind the Men’s Mental Health Cookout 2025 – Forgiveness when you never get an apology 📍 The Men's Mental Health Cookout 🗓️ July 19, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 6:30 PM📍 129, Bull Hill Lane, West Haven, CT 🎟️ Tickets at jordanspeaking.com 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Jordan's Journey 04:30 - Growing Up in Bridgeport 09:00 - The Father Wound & Anger 17:00 - Forgiveness Without an Apology 22:00 - Starting a Podcast During Grief 33:00 - Mentorship & Legacy 41:00 - The Mental Health Cookout Vision 47:00 - Final Reflections Follow Jordan: https://www.youtube.com/@UCFyP_yh9UUfRaooB_a_owtA Website: https://www.jordanspeaking.com/ Instagram: @dailydimensions8304 @jordanspeaking TikTok: @Dailydimensions 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul Martinez sits down with Kevin Power, a veteran home inspector and founder of Sunrise Home Inspections, to unpack the overlooked truths behind real estate purchases. With over 16 years of experience, Kevin has seen it all—from rushed decisions and waived inspections to costly oversights that haunt homeowners for years. Together, they discuss: The emotional trap buyers fall into Why home inspections are essential in today’s housing market What most people get wrong about roofs, plumbing, and maintenance How to balance confidence and caution in any big purchase Whether you're buying your first home or advising clients as a realtor or insurance agent, this episode is a masterclass in protecting what matters most—your investment and your peace of mind. 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 00:00 – Intro: Are We the Bad Guys in Real Estate? 02:00 – Kevin’s First Inspection: What Went Wrong 05:00 – Why Home Inspections Still Matter in 2025 08:00 – Buyers Skipping Steps: The Hidden Cost 11:00 – Roof Age, Insurance, and Industry Shifts 15:30 – Attention Spans & Education vs. Advising 19:00 – Avoiding Costly Mistakes as a Buyer 23:00 – Paul’s Real-Life $1,500 Plumbing Lesson 28:00 – What Makes a Good Home Inspector 32:00 – Starting Sunrise: Confidence & Risk 37:00 – Tech, AI, and What Kevin Refuses to Automate 41:00 – Would You Let Your Kid Buy This House? 45:00 – Realtor Pressure & Waiving Inspections 50:00 – Final Thoughts: Protect the Buyer, Protect the Dream 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode, Paul talks with professional bowler and father of three, Matt Brockett , about the hidden trauma that shaped his youth — and the sport that saved his life. Matt shares how childhood abuse led him to bowling as a way to escape, and how years later, fatherhood, therapy, and faith helped him find healing. From competing in PBA events to building his coaching brand, Matt's story is one of resilience, accountability, and growth. Topics covered: Childhood trauma and survival Using bowling as therapy and motivation The role of fatherhood in healing Building R&B Bowling Vulnerable reflections on forgiveness and personal growth 🔗 Follow Matt: Instagram: @rb_pba_bowling Facebook: R&B PBA Bowling 🎙 Subscribe for more honest conversations on life, growth, and purpose. Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! Kevin Mace, known as the "Mortgage Magician," sits down with Paul to reflect on 21+ years in the mortgage industry. From surviving the 2008 housing crash to uncovering an undiagnosed gluten allergy and ADHD diagnosis, Kevin opens up about the highs, lows, and life lessons that reshaped his personal and professional journey. This conversation is real, relatable, and packed with insight about resilience, people-first business, and personal reinvention. 🎧 Topics: Subprime crash & mortgage ethics ADHD and mental health in business Life pivots, parenting, and purpose 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe on YouTube / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST https://youtu.be/AuhsCOqp194 Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode of The Open Exchange, Realtor, Broker, and Content Creator Rob Wallace joins the show to talk about the unseen struggles behind success. From a childhood spent moving internationally to facing devastating personal loss, Rob shares how discipline, faith, and self-growth reshaped his life. The conversation touches on building mental toughness, overcoming distractions, redefining success, and navigating today's noisy world with purpose. This raw and open discussion offers a refreshing look at what it truly means to grow, persevere, and lead with intention. Connect with Rob: TikTok: @robwallacere Youtube: @robwallacere Instagram: @robwallacere Website: www.robwallacere.com Email: Robwallacere @gmail.com 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Chapters: 00:00 - Welcoming Rob 03:00 - Rob’s Early Life: Growing Up Around the World 08:30 - Learning Hustle Early: Becoming the Man of the House 14:00 - The Real Impact of Loss and Grief 20:30 - Fitness, Discipline, and the Power of 75 Hard 27:00 - Faith Journey: Finding God Again 34:00 - Blocking Out the Noise: Media, Politics, and Distractions 41:30 - Redefining Success and Freedom 48:00 - Entrepreneurship and Authenticity in Content Creation 53:00 - Final Reflections: Discipline, Faith, and Staying Rooted Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! What does it take to rebuild a six-figure real estate business from scratch every few years? Meet Olivia Evans—a dynamic military spouse, mom, and top-producing REALTOR® who’s mastered the art of reinvention. From being broke and asking her mom for diaper money, to closing three deals her first month in business, Olivia shares how she’s grown her brand in new markets without cold calls or paid leads. In this episode, Olivia opens up about: Starting in real estate at 17 in England The challenges and resilience of military family life Why authenticity trumps algorithms in marketing How she creates community and referrals in unfamiliar places The mindset shift required to scale in unpredictable environments Whether you're in sales, real estate, or just trying to figure life out—this one's for you. 📍Find Olivia on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: 🔗 @oliviaevansrealestate 🌐 oliviaevansrealestate.com 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast 00:00 - Olivia’s Life in Connecticut 01:00 - From England to the U.S.: Her Journey 03:00 - Real Estate in the UK vs. US 07:00 - Meeting Her Marine Husband 10:00 - Broke with a Baby: Starting Over 13:00 - No Cold Calls, Just Connection 16:30 - Marketing Without Being Cringe 20:00 - Delegating with a Virtual Assistant 24:00 - Real Talk on Rebuilding in New Cities 30:00 - Confidence, Audacity, and Organic Sales 35:00 - Coaching: Finding the Real “Why” 42:00 - Military Life, Motherhood, and Grit 45:00 - Where to Find Olivia Evans #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode I sit down with Tara Crossley — a realtor, coach, and keynote speaker — whose journey from financial dependence and personal trauma to professional independence will leave you inspired. Tara opens up about: Surviving a traumatic upbringing and breaking generational cycles Becoming financially literate after a crisis changed her life Starting her first job at 14 to escape control How real estate helped her reclaim her identity Using coaching and keynote speaking to empower others This isn’t just a story about business — it’s about resilience, purpose, healing, and finding power in vulnerability. 0:00 - Intro & Tara’s First In-Person Podcast 1:00 - Her Appearance on “Money & Impact” 2:15 - Becoming Financially Literate After Husband’s Accident 5:00 - Facing Life as a Young Mom in Crisis 7:45 - The Journey to Sales: From Vacuums to Real Estate 10:15 - Emotional Turmoil & Survivor Mode from Childhood 14:00 - Diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) 18:00 - Learning to Be a Better Parent Through Pain 22:00 - Getting Help, Coaching, and Healing 26:00 - Becoming a Realtor During Covid 29:00 - Building a Real Estate Team in Connecticut 31:30 - Coaching Others to Break Fear & Grief Barriers 34:00 - The Power of Showing Up and Letting Purpose Drive You 37:30 - No Gatekeeping: Sharing Success & Giving Back 42:00 - Final Thoughts on Gratitude, Parenting & Living with Purpose Connect with Tara: Instagram: @taracrossleyrealtor YouTube: @taracrossleyrealtor Website: https://www.keyrealestatehomes.com/tara-crossley 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-open-exchange-with-paul-martinez/id1733876904 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this deep and raw conversation, Paul Martinez sits down with entrepreneur and breath work expert Johnny Longinidis to unpack the journey from emotional suppression and near-suicide to purpose, healing, and spiritual alignment. Johnny shares his Greek-American upbringing, his entrepreneurial grind, and the turning point that led him to breath work, yoga, and a new definition of success. They discuss how men mask pain, how to build emotional intelligence, and how breath and stillness can guide us back to purpose. 🎙️ Follow Me: TikTok: @paullymtv @theopenexchangepodcast Instagram: @paullyym @theopenexchangepodcast Email: Theopenexchangepodcast@gmail.com Subscribe: YouTube / @paullyymm 🎙️ Other ways to listen: https://youtu.be/F08uKJgE8vg Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Qh1HPG7IF9vlI1Sy21gST Chapters: 00:00 - Intro & How They Connected 02:00 - Johnny’s Greek Roots & Early Hustle 06:45 - From Restaurants to Self-Discovery 10:20 - What is Pranayama & Why It Matters 14:00 - Emotional Repression & Masculinity 17:45 - Losing His Father & Baseball Dreams 21:00 - Rock Bottom: A Voice That Saved His Life 26:30 - How Habits & Environment Shape You 30:00 - Meditation Misconceptions & Getting Started 35:45 - The Science & Simplicity of Breathwork 41:00 - How to Identify Suppressed Emotions 45:30 - Johnny’s Daily Spiritual Practices 50:00 - Why Life Has No Final Destination 53:00 - How to Work with Johnny & Final Thoughts Podcast #Conversations #PersonalDevelopment #Faith #Inspiration #StoryTelling #Podcast Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! Growth doesn’t happen without a fight—and sometimes the battle is inside. In this episode, CJ Satti returns for a raw, vulnerable conversation about the mental, emotional, and spiritual struggles men carry every day. We talk about what happens when the pressure to provide, lead, and stay strong turns into silence, guilt, or emotional exhaustion. CJ shares his personal transformation—from quitting alcohol to deepening his faith—and how making space for emotions became the fuel for real growth. We reflect on the complexity of being fathers, husbands, and men who want more… but are still learning how to be present. If you've ever felt pulled between the man you are and the man you're becoming, this one's for you. Chapters: 00:00 – Intro: Life Update & Podcast Growth 02:15 – The Chaos in a Man’s Mind 05:30 – Guilt About Creative Dreams & Priorities 08:10 – Balancing Marriage, Kids & Inner Restlessness 10:20 – The Cost of Poor Communication 13:00 – The Pressure to Appear "Okay" 15:45 – CJ’s Journey Quitting Alcohol & Weed 21:00 – Why Growth Hurts at First 24:20 – Distractions, Numbing, and Avoidance 27:50 – Faith, Free Will & the Power of Prayer 32:00 – Outwitting the Devil & Spiritual Drift 35:00 – The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit 38:00 – Journaling, Therapy & Processing Emotion 42:15 – What We Want Our Kids to Remember About Us 46:00 – Provider Pressure vs. Being Present 50:10 – Forgiveness, Self-Awareness & Emotional Maturity 54:00 – The Power of Reflection After a Bad Day 58:00 – Advice to Our Younger Selves 1:02:00 – Final Thoughts on Growth, God & Masculinity Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! 🎙️ The Open Exchange: Best of Year One! As I wrap up an incredible first year of The Open Exchange , I am bringing you the most powerful, thought-provoking, and entertaining moments from the diverse lineup of guests. This episode features standout clips from some of the best conversations. 🔥 Lauren Bergeron – Discusses fitness, overcoming social media distractions, and building sustainable health habits. 🔥 Dom Williams – A passionate debate on WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns, and the evolving landscape of professional wrestling. 🔥 Joe Delacruz – Shares the heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of his family's battle with addiction and the mission behind Community Speaks Out . 🔥 Jennifer Finan – Breaks down leadership, mentorship, and the importance of setting high expectations in business and personal growth. 🔥 Rajai Davis – Former MLB star reflects on his journey, from minor league struggles to his iconic home run in the 2016 World Series. 🔥 Samer Delgado – Talks about personal transformation, cutting bad habits, and the discipline required to change your life. 🔥 Geoff Smith – Discusses the evolving role of real estate agents and how technology is shifting the industry landscape. 🔥 CJ Satti – Explores work-life balance, faith, and building a legacy for his family. 🔥 Walter Cloud – Opens up about the weight men carry, the power of faith, and the importance of vulnerability in leadership. 🔥 Jose Rojas – Talks about his journey in barbering, learning from hip-hop culture, and balancing business success with personal sacrifices. 🔥 Danny Garcia – A deep dive into mentorship, breaking generational patterns, and embracing personal and professional growth. 🔥 Maurice Steele – Discusses faith, navigating life's highs and lows, and the ever-present battle between worldly distractions and spiritual fulfillment. Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode, Paul sits down with Frank Colmenares, founder and owner of ReelEMedia and artist of the new album Beautiful Trama 2. Frank shares his journey from working in a middle school to running a full-time media company, all while staying true to his musical roots and passion for storytelling. 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more! 📲 Follow Frank Colmenares & ReelEMedia: 🎵 Stream Beautiful Trama: https://music.apple.com/us/album/beautiful-trauma-2-the-ugly-in-the-healing/1800382379 📸 Instagram: @iAmFrankColmenares @Reelemedia 🎥 ReelEMedia Website: https://www.reelemedia.com/ Chapters [00:00] Intro & Birthday Shoutout [02:30] The Origin of ReelEMedia [09:00] Taking the Leap: Entrepreneurship & Faith [16:00] The Creative Process: Music & Film [28:00] The Meaning Behind Beautiful Trama [36:30] Family, Relationships & Emotional Barriers [44:30] The Hustle Never Stops: Future Projects & Closing Thoughts Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul sits down with Brandon Gidicson, an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and master networker. Brandon shares his journey from Sweden to New York to Connecticut, how he built a thriving networking event, and the mindset shifts that fuel his business growth. We explore: Entrepreneurship & Scaling – Lessons from working in a fast-growing franchise & how to build a scalable business Networking Hacks – How Brandon grew his professional network from scratch & filled events with 40+ attendees Cold Exposure & Mental Toughness – The benefits of ice baths, pushing past discomfort, and embracing failure Cultural Differences & Lessons from Sweden – How his time abroad shaped his perspective on food, health, and success Pressure Washing Business – Why he started Under Pressure Water Pros & the $10 billion pressure-washing industry Follow Brandon: Instagram: @brandoncashflow @underpressurewashingpros Business: Under Pressure Washing Pros LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-m-gidicsin/ Subscribe to the show: https://www.youtube.com/ @TheOpenExchangePodcast Follow on Instagram: @TheOpenExchangePodcast Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome & First Impressions – How Brandon knew this would be a great conversation 02:00 - From Sweden to New York – Family history, moving between countries, and how it shaped his mindset 06:00 - Lessons from Living in Sweden – Food, health, education, and differences in lifestyle 10:30 - The Reality of Networking – How Brandon built a thriving networking event from scratch 15:00 - Entrepreneurship & Business Failures – E-commerce coffee business, lessons learned, and why failure isn’t the end 20:00 - The Pressure Washing Industry – How he identified a $10 billion business opportunity 23:30 - Scaling & Business Growth – What he learned from working in a fast-growing franchise 27:00 - Ice Baths & Mental Toughness – Why pushing through discomfort creates massive growth 31:00 - The Power of Relationship Building – Networking beyond events & how to stay top-of-mind 36:00 - Comfort vs. Growth Mindset – Why comfort is the enemy of success 40:00 - Why LinkedIn is a Goldmine – How professionals can use LinkedIn to grow their business 44:00 - Final Thoughts & Where to Find Brandon Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…

Send a text to suggest topics you’d like to hear! In this episode of The Open Exchange, I sit down with Kelly Lichtenberger, author of Prospect Like a Girl, to break down the fundamentals of sales, confidence, and emotional intelligence in a world increasingly driven by AI. We discuss: Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt in sales Why emotional intelligence beats artificial intelligence in building relationships. Kelly’s journey from door-to-door encyclopedia sales to industry-leading success. How to handle rejection and sales slumps like a pro. Why the human touch will always be valuable in business. Kelly shares insights from her book, her experiences in technology and insurance sales, and her belief in the power of being human in a digital world. 📖 Get Kelly’s book, “Prospect Like a Girl” [ https://www.amazon.com/Prospect-Like-Girl-Intelligence-Artificial/dp/B0DDBP43SF/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 ] Book a Consultation https://www.prospectlikeagirl.com/booking Connect With Kelly WEBSITE(S) https://www.prospectlikeagirl.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA(S) https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylichtenberger/ Chapters 00:00 - Intro & How Kelly Got on the Podcast 03:00 - Kelly’s Sales Journey & Early Struggles 06:30 - The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Sales 10:45 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Self-Doubt 15:20 - The Habit Loop & Breaking Comfort Zones 19:50 - Why Sales Slumps Happen & How to Get Out 24:40 - AI vs Human Connection in Sales 30:00 - Social Media, Validation, & Sales Strategies 35:20 - The Science of Prospecting & Sales Psychology 40:10 - Kelly’s Book Writing Journey & Personal Motivation 43:00 - Final Thoughts & Where to Find Kelly Support the show 'Virtual Tip Jar' - Donate to my show to keep me going! Thank you! Paypal: https://paypal.me/PaulMartinez89?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US (PaulMartinez89) Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Paullyymm (Paullyymm)…