Raising The Bar Podcast

When her position at U.S. Foods was dissolved, Chef Rosie called Mr. Tapley and asked one question: "Can we talk?" What happened next was the deal of a lifetime — negotiated entirely on a cocktail napkin. He wrote an offer. She countered. They went back and forth until he said the words that changed everything: "I'll take your offer. But this restaurant is yours as of tomorrow." No contract. No lawyers. Just a handshake, a promissory note, and a loan he carried himself. She paid him back in three years — and 10 years later, he'd still do it all over again. But the real story isn't just the napkin deal. It's what came after. The kitchen staff walking out on opening night. The stroke that revealed cancer. The husband who stayed when she thought no one would. The prayer in El Salvador that whispered back: "You know what to do. You lack discipline." Chef Rosie doesn't just cook food. She transforms lives. From a single mother in the Tenderloin to a community leader flying planes and mentoring the next generation, her story is proof that vulnerability is power. That making your bed matters. That in suffering, you find grace. In this episode, we talk about: • The napkin negotiation that made her a restaurant owner overnight • Surviving COVID, closing Provecho, and opening Lady R • How a stroke saved her life by revealing cancer • Meeting Chris — the answer to a prayer she didn't know would come true • Why discipline is the secret ingredient to dreaming bigger • The Letter to My Nieces and breaking generational trauma • Why you should make your bed every single day • Chapulines, mezcal, and 17 grams of protein in one ounce • Learning to fly planes, trust God, and live with purpose This is a conversation about faith, resilience, mentorship, and the power of showing up even when you're exhausted. Chef Rosie reminds us that you don't live once — you die once. You have to live every day. 🎙️ Raising The Bar Network Full episodes also available on Spotify 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @rtb.podcast #ChefRosie #LadyR #VulnerabilityIsPower #Resilience #Discipline #FaithAndPurpose #WomenInBusiness #RestaurantOwner #MakeYourBed #Mentorship #BreakingTrauma #Provecho #RaisingTheBar

Cory, the owner of Chayse Life, shares the personal story behind his wellness and recovery center—and how losing his younger brother in a car crash changed the direction of his life.In this conversation, Cory explains how cold plunge therapy, sauna sessions, physical training, and community helped him work through grief, rebuild his health, and become more present for his family. He also discusses his life as a firefighter, resilience, fatherhood, and why Chayse Life is designed to be more than a day spa or recovery facility.We discuss:• The story behind the name Chayse Life • Cold plunge and sauna recovery routines • Building discipline through discomfort • Grief, purpose, fatherhood, and leading by example • How shared struggle creates community • Supporting first responders, veterans, athletes, and families • The future of Chayse Life and The Chase Effect podcast. This episode is a conversation about wellness, recovery, resilience, and continuing to chase life after loss. Note: This discussion is for general information and personal perspective—not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using sauna or cold-plunge therapy, especially if you have a medical condition. https://www.chayselife.com/ #coldplunge #InfraredSauna #Wellness #Recovery #Resilience

What happens when a young girl from Vietnam moves to America and becomes a pharmacist but trades that life in for an espresso machine? You get The Fin — Murrieta's most Inventive coffee shop, where everyone knows your name and every cup tells a story. In this episode, Ra and Travay sit down with Ann, the owner of The Fin Coffee Shop in Murrieta, CA. Ann grew up in Vietnam, went to school to become a pharmacist, and then took a leap that most people would call crazy — she moved to the Inland Empire and opened a coffee shop. Not just any coffee shop. One that blends classic Vietnamese coffee traditions with inventive drinks you won't find anywhere else.We talk about the immigrant hustle, the courage to pivot from a stable career to a passion, and what it actually takes to build a community space where people don't just grab coffee — they stay. The Fin isn't just a business. It's a family-friendly, happy-vibe place that feels like home the second you walk in.I f you've ever wondered what it takes to start over, bet on yourself, and build something that matters — this conversation is for you. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes on growth, motivation, and the conversations that change you. 🎧 Full episodes also available on Spotify. 📍 Visit The Fin Coffee Shop in Murrieta, CA https://www.instagram.com/thefin.coffee/ #coffeeshopmusic #SmallBusiness #CoffeeShopOwner #VietnameseCoffee #Murrieta #InlandEmpire #CoffeeBusiness #EntrepreneurStory #PharmacistToOwner #VietnamToAmerica #CoffeeCulture #RaisingTheBar #Motivation #LifeLessons #Podcast

Get ready for an exclusive look inside the Underground Training Facility (UTF) with the legendary Bill "The Grill" Cooper! He's opening the doors to reveal their incredible growth, give you a sneak peek at his killer training secrets, and share his inspiring journey of overcoming injury and the fight back to the mat. This Santa Barbara Jiu-Jitsu icon is about to drop some serious knowledge! #billthegrillcooper #jiujitsu #bjj #coaching #santabarbara #raisingthebarpodcast Underground Training Facility (UTF) www.instagram.com/underground_training_facility_/ Bill "The Grill" Cooper https://www.instagram.com/billthegrillcooper/

Ra & Travay dive into Super Bowl LX, dissect Bad Bunny's polarizing halftime show and all the drama, AND celebrate ONE EPIC year of podcasting! #badbunny #puertorico #haltimeshow #superbowlLX #Turningpointusa #podcast #raisingthrbarpodcast #belize #latinmusic #livenation

We dove into the captivating Netflix docuseries Sean Combs: The Reckoning! Join us as we break it down from two thrilling perspectives: a man in his 40s who experienced Diddy’s journey firsthand, and a guy in his late 20s who felt only a faint ripple from his impact. We share our insights, dissect what we believe to be true, and reveal our thoughts on this eye-opening docuseries! #diddyallegations #diddynetflixdocuseries #netflixdocuseries #podcasts #raisingthebarpodcast

Do you expect too much out of your marriage and other relationships? exploring the impact of expectations, acceptance of differences, and intentional communication. We look at the significance of understanding perspectives, non-negotiables, and the value of shared experiences in building a strong and fulfilling relationship.

The conversation delves into the impact of AI, satellite technology, and the influence of algorithms on human behavior. It explores concerns about privacy, control, and the potential consequences of technological advancement, Diddy's controversy, parenting, and the impact of technology on children. It delves into the challenges of access to information, the influence of technology on behavior, and the importance of intentional parenting.

The holiday season can often feel like a chaotic whirlwind, especially when it comes to balancing fun with responsibilities. In this episode of the Raising The Bar Podcast, we dive into the challenges of maintaining financial stability, health, and mindful habits during this festive time. Join us as we explore the importance of intentional living and share personal anecdotes that resonate with many.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of maintaining connections with friends and family, reflecting on their experiences with parenthood, friendship, and personal growth. They explore the impact of failure and the lessons learned from it, emphasizing the significance of legacy and the small gestures that can make a difference in people's lives. The conversation also touches on the influence of social media on perceptions of happiness and success, the future of human connection, and the importance of being intentional in daily life, especially during the holiday season.

The fellas share their experiences and reflections on Thanksgiving, food highlights, and family traditions. They delve into the dynamics of parenting, the importance of open conversations about life choices, and the significance of family gatherings. The discussion also touches on the upcoming Christmas season and the challenges of maintaining fitness during the holidays.

Summary In this episode, the hosts reflect on their journey through podcasting, discussing key themes such as morality, personal growth, and the evolution of gender roles in modern relationships. They share insights from past episodes, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and the impact of adversity on human behavior. The conversation highlights the significance of in-person interactions and the lessons learned from various interviews, ultimately reinforcing the idea that growth is a continuous process.

Travay is ready the holidays, Ra isn't, will the church help with baby formula to feed a hypothetical starving baby, and what do you know about tenderism

We discuss Avi Loeb, 3i/Atlas, Aliens and AI.

it's been a bit of a hiatus....because Ra got married! We're BAAAAAAACK!!!!!!!

Travay has questions for Ra before the wedding

The fellas talk about the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk

Justin Griffin has played in the pros for 10+ years and now is here to bring you Pure Joy Basketball. Coach Justin graduated with a B.S in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from University of Hawaii, Hilo and was named Male Athlete of the Year and Big Island Athlete of the Year. His professional career includes playing in Germany, Romania, Puerto Rico and Mexico where he finished his career with Soles de Mexicali as Captain and League Champions. https://www.purejoyenrichment.com/ https://www.instagram.com/purejoyball/ Youtube: @purejoybasketball5995

The second half of our convo with Chef Rosie, owner of Lady R Bistro.

The fellas got a chance to talk with the award-winning Owner of Lady R Bistro, Chef Rosie. https://chefrosie.com/lady-r-bistro/ instagram @ladyrbistro Lady R Bistro 27192 Sun City Blvd-STE F, Menifee, Ca 92586

Travay's dad, Mark Hatten is in town! You know we had to have him on the podcast.

It's almost football seasons! The fellas talk about their experiences with painkillers, and habits surrounding injuries or illness.

Andre Watson’s life changed drastically. Growing up, he was told to “shoot for the stars” and that he could be whatever he wanted to be. But what happens when you literally can’t See it? At the age of 9 years old, Andre was diagnosed as legally blind. After over a dozen surgeries to save his eyesight, he and his family had to face the inevitable. Andre was going blind. But the story does not stop there. Vision in The Dark is Dr. Andre Watson's story of becoming a Blind Visionary. He is blind, yet he decided to use his life to develop new ways of seeing himself, others, and the world. Andre braved and overcame countless odds. Today he is a licensed clinical psychologist, a world traveler, an award-winning athlete, and a beloved husband, father, and friend. He offers a challenging and awe-inspiring glimpse of life through the eyes of a blind man.  https://yourvisionforlife.com/ Amazon audiobook/ paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Vision-Dark-Living-Taught-Light/dp/0692760253

Ra & Travay might be in too deep. Submit your vote to our pole

Our most controversial topic yet!

It's Summer!

What was in like for you in the 80's & 90's?

The fellas discuss gender roles in relationships

EJ Smith has been PUDN a smile on people's faces since 1999. He makes his pudding from scratch, cooked in small kettle batches, KSA kosher certified. He is the first too open such a business. https://famouspudn.com/ @Famouspudn (instagram)

Walter Carter is the Director of Hospitality at Danza del Sol Winery & Masia de la Vinya Winery where he oversees all aspects of the guest experience. He has achieved his Level 1 Sommelier and C.H.I.P. (Certified Hospitality Industry Professional) certifications. The recipient of two Xenia Spotlight on Service Awards and winner of the Xenia Service Star of Hospitality for 2023. @waltervinyard (Instagram)

The fellas chat with Emil Gregory, the owner of The Champion Sports Pub about his journey from a child in Ukraine/Russia to moving to the United States, to accomplishing his dream in owning his own bar. www.thechampionmurriets.com the_champion_murrieta (instagram)

Chef Mario Amaral grew up in Southern California before joining the U.S. Coast Guard in 2001. Mario was always fascinated by food and cooking, so upon departure from the military in 2005, he moved to Las Vegas to attend Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. From culinary school, Mario opened Red Rock Resort and was exposed to multiple kitchens from buffets to banquets in a hotel setting. Chef Mario has also won many culinary competitions, including round 1 of Iron Chef Bellagio, BOH Brawl, and the Las Vegas DICED competition. After helping open and improve restaurants around the US he has landed back home in California at Savage Chef. Awards Iron Chef Bellagio Round 1 Winner Las Vegas Diced Competition Iron City Mac n Cheese Festival Winner (Birmingham, AL) Steel Chef Competition (Portsmouth, NH) www.savagechef.com

We talk about the struggle of being Consistent and falling into distractions.

Ra & Travay discuss how excuses can lead to missed opportunities and how fear can cripple

Growing up in Detroit, helping with his dad's restaurant, then culinary school in NY; Chef Dylan Soro shares with us how he puts the "SAVAGE" in Savage Chef. SoCal Chef Open (2021) - Pinnacle Award SoCal Chef Open (2021) - People's Choice Award www.savagechef.com savagechefbarandgrill (instagram)

We sit down with Bill "The Grill" Cooper, an American grappler who earned the rank of black belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu at the Paragon jiu jitsu academy. Bill Cooper is one of the most exciting jiu jitsu competitors of his generation, being also the youngest American to have achieved a black belt in BJJ at the time of the grading @underground_training_facility (instagram) Underground Training Facility (UTF) 7334 Hollister Ave Suite D, Goleta, CA 93117

We talk about gratitude, relationships, and sacrifice

We discuss Lebron's actions defending his son in public, The effects of the US/Canada relations.

We talk with Nikki Soro, owner of Savage Spin and Savage Chef about her journey to becoming a business owner and navigating family, life, a restaurant and a newly launched spin class www.savagespin.com www.savagechef.com

convo about habits, good and bad and how they affect us

Actor Omari Washington joins the guys to talk about Acting, and overcoming obstacles to follow you dreams

We talk family dynamics and birth order,

Ra and Travay discuss the super bowl, the halftime show and today's marketing tactics

We talk Mental Wellness, the challenges to being positive, being your best as man, father and husband. How do you stay motivated and happy mentally?

Intro