The Danny and Riana Show
by Danny and Riana
Danny Peña and Riana Manuel-Peña have lived and worked in the games industry for a combined 30+ years. What have they learned in that time? Life (like gaming) is better together! Join them on their journey through gaming conferences, red carpet events, baby milestones, marriage hurdles, and the occasional work update. Play along with game recommendations for busy parents and enjoy this seasoned couples’ sazón as they talk about their favorite memories, products, and experiences. Business Email: [email protected]
Episodes
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How Gaming’s Ultimate Power Couple Builds an Empire Together
How Gaming’s Ultimate Power Couple Builds an Empire Together | Danny Peña & Riana Manuel-Peña What happens when two ambitious leaders in the video game industry build a life, a business, and a legacy together without losing their individual identity? In this interview on Black Game Pro, host Leon...
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Why We’re Moving to the Dominican Republic BEFORE Our House is Built!
Even though our new home in Punta Cana is still under construction, we’ve decided to move in December and rent for a year while our build is being finished. In this episode, we break down why we’re making the leap early—from helping our family acclimate, establishing dual citizenship, and…
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Designing Our Dream Home: Floor Plan Evolution Part 2
Welcome back to Part 2 of our Floor Plan Evolution series on The Danny & Riana Show! In this episode, we continue breaking down the process of designing our dream villa in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We dive into how our custom layout, room distribution, and outdoor spaces have evolved from...
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Building Our Dream House: Floor Plan Evolution in Punta Cana (Part 1)
In Part 1 of our Punta Cana villa design journey, we take you through the dramatic shift from our original house plan to our new triangular corner lot! We break down what we loved about the initial rectangular design, the reality of switching lot shapes, and the challenge of avoiding a shared...
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How We're Moving to Punta Cana: Packing, Budget, and Big News!
In this episode, Danny & Riana went live to answer your burning questions about our upcoming international move to the Dominican Republic, life as gaming consultants, packing high-end tech, real estate realities, and preparing for a new baby! From international moving costs to internet speeds in...
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Raising Dominican American Kids Abroad
In this episode of The Danny & Riana Show, Riana sits down with Danny for a candid conversation exploring cultural identity, heritage, and what it truly means to navigate life as a Dominican American. With their family's international move to Punta Cana just around the corner, Danny reflects on...
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Buying Real Estate in the Dominican Republic vs USA Home Buying
Buying and building a home in the Dominican Republic is a whole different world compared to navigating real estate in the United States! In this episode of The Danny and Riana Show, Danny recaps his recent trip to Gamescom in Germany before we dive into the real talk: how our experience building…
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We Officially Sold Our House! International Moving Day & Major Life Updates
We are officially no longer homeowners! In this episode of The Danny & Riana Show, we take you behind the scenes of our international moving day as we pack up our three-story house to prepare for our move to the Dominican Republic. We share our full experience working with international movers...
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Our Step-By-Step Plan to Move Out in 4 Days
In this episode of The Danny and Riana Show, we break down our step-by-step 4-day framework to move out of our Los Angeles home as we prepare for our international relocation to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! From room-by-room decluttering and capsule wardrobes to packing high-end gaming PCs and...
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How We’re Packing Our Entire Life to Move Overseas (Step-by-Step)
Moving our growing family from Los Angeles to Punta Cana is full of moving parts and we’re breaking down the actual logistics! In this episode we walk through our multi-phase timeline from local rental to international shipping containers, flying to the Dominican Republic, to ANOTHER rental and...
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Our Custom Home Builder in Dominican Republic
In this episode of The Danny & Riana Show, we are sharing exclusive, on-the-ground showroom footage from our recent trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! We paid a visit to the developer’s office at Grupo Joseda to explore the high-end customization options available for our upcoming...
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The Real Cost of Moving to Punta Cana: Our $9,400 Shipping Quote & Logistics
Are we crazy? We are officially closing on our Los Angeles home next month! 🏡 In this episode of The Danny and Riana Show, we dive deep into the real, unvarnished logistics of moving our family of three (soon to be four!) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We share the exact quote we received…
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Our Trip to Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Short episode this week! We are a little tired from our whirlwind trip to both Punta Cana amd Santo Domingo, so expect more details in next week's video. For now, we're giving a quick update on how things went, how they're going back here in Los Angeles, and exciting things coming up in the...
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Getting My Dominican Republic Citizenship Paperwork Woes
Storytime! Danny finally made it to New York City to get his Dominican Republic citizenship papers - but it didn't exactly go as planned. Follow along with Danny's recounting as well as on-the-ground footage from the New York Knicks parade and hear how he navigated road closures, unusual traffic,...
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The Massive US Exodus is Real - And The Data Proves It!
More Americans are moving abroad than ever before - and it’s not just a feeling, the data completely backs it up. In this episode of The Danny and Riana Show, we dive into a striking report from Census.gov showing a massive 180 in net international migration, marking shifts not seen since the…
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Can You Live in the Dominican Republic and Still Cover Gaming Events?
We are SO back! In this episode, we tackle the number one question we received from friends and industry colleagues over the Summer Game Fest and Xbox Showcase weekend: How are we going to keep attending major gaming events like GDC, DICE, and Summer Game Fest after we move to the Dominican...
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7 Things You Must Know Before Visiting the Dominican Republic
Planning a trip or thinking about relocating to the Dominican Republic? In this episode, Danny and Riana break down everything you need to know to navigate DR like a local. From understanding neighborhood "colmados" and decoding the local tax system (ITBIS and VAT) to filling out your e-ticket...
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Q&A: Electricity Bills, Dual Citizenship Hurdles, & Finding a Legit Realtor in DR
Thinking about moving to the Dominican Republic? In this episode of The Danny and Riana Show, we are diving deep into your questions and comments about relocating to Punta Cana! From navigating the legal hurdles of dual citizenship and finding certified translators at the consulate, to setting up...
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Moving to the DR: Our 6-Month Relocation Checklist
We're almost 6 months out from the big move! 🌴 In this episode, we’re breaking down the exact checklist we’re using to move our lives (and two kids!) from LA to the Dominican Republic. Our Moving Abroad Checklist covers: -Documents: Managing visas, passports, and medical/school records....
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From US Roots to Dominican Republic Growth: The Bold Journey of a Creator Building Across Borders
Episode 74 | This week, Danny & Riana discover how Anthony Lopez transformed his family's life by moving from the United States to the Dominican Republic. Explore the cultural shifts, community building, and entrepreneurial spirit that make DR a land of opportunity. This episode is perfect for...
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We Get Schooled on Moving to the Dominican Republic
This week, we're joined by Kenia from TropiMom Diaries! She shares all about her family's experience moving from Texas to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Check out more of her videos on her channels: YouTube @TropiMomDiaries Facebook @TropiMom Diaries Instagram @tropimom TikTok @tropimom.diaries...
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How an Unexpected Pregnancy Changed Our Punta Cana Moving Plans
We're having a baby! ... In the middle of leaving the country... Oh boy... Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at www.dannyandriana.com/contact or hit us up on socials: Twitter/X/Instagram @godfree @therianamp TikTok @godfree @_therianamp
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Best Places to Eat in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Episode 71 | Get ready for a restaurant recommendation-packed episode! Danny and Riana are taking us through their favorite spots for a quick bite, fine dining, and date nights in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at...
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Most Affordable / Safest / Happiest Countries in the World
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you go? Danny and Riana explore this question with some data-backed insights in this research-heavy episode. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at www.dannyandriana.com/contact or hit us up on socials:...
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Comparing Cost of Living: Los Angeles vs. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
We're revealing it all in this episode with a full cost of living breakdown for Danny & Riana. Follow along as they compare their current life in LA to the lifestyle that awaits them in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at...
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Reading Your Comments About Moving to the Dominican Republic
Danny and Riana are reading and reacting to YOUR comments! See if your post gets mentioned, and get some real-talk rapid-fire responses in this episode. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at www.dannyandriana.com/contact or hit us up on socials:...
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We Get A Sneak Peek At Our Future House In Punta Cana!
Let's step into the future! Browse what Danny and Riana's Punta Cana house could look like with renders and a sample floor plan from their developers' portfolio. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at www.dannyandriana.com/contact or hit us up on socials:...
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Buying Land in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Episode 66 | It's official - Danny and Riana bought their land in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! Follow along as they recount their house shopping experience, how they narrowed down their ideal neighborhood, and what made them choose their builder. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny…
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What Google and NVIDIA Coming to the Dominican Republic Really Means
In this episode, Danny and Riana get a little nerdy about the recent news of Google and NVIDIA coming to the Dominican Republic - and discuss how it may impact their family their industry, and their new home country. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at...
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Why Leaving the US for Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Is So Hard
Moving abroad can sound like a fantasy, but the reality is that leaving the US is very hard. This episode features Danny and Riana explaining some of their challenges and what they'll miss the most about living in the States and Los Angeles, California. Got feedback for the show or want to ask...
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Our Games Industry History & Starting Fresh in the Dominican Republic
We know they are heading to the Dominican Republic, but what exactly are Danny and Riana gonna do for work after they move? This episode takes us on a journey through each of their work histories, their content creation experience, and how everything will translate into new business they'll bring...
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Things to Learn Before Moving to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Episode 62 | Danny and Riana know a lot about how they will move and how life is different in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, but not everything! Let's go through what their research has taught them, as well as what they still need to learn. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana…
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5 Reasons We’re Moving From LA to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
5 Reasons Why We’re Moving From LA to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Danny & Riana have been planning to move for years, but how did they land on Punta Cana, Dominican Republic? Find out in this episode! Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at...
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When to Leave Corporate and Take Control of Your Life
Danny and Riana had enough - the system was breaking them down, so they chose to break free. Hear what led them to quit the corporate grind, why they took the leap, and how it's changing their lives. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question? Reach out at...
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What We Learned About Punta Cana Living
Danny and Riana are breaking down the best and worst of their recent Punta Cana experience. From "American" food staples, to local culture, to the infamous traffic, we hear their firsthand accounts alongside unreleased footage from the Dominican Republic. Subscribe on our Youtube channel -...
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GRWM: The Game Awards 2025 Red Carpet Edition!
Go behind the scenes with Danny and Riana as they conceptualize, source, and style their red carpet outfits for The Game Awards 2025! We’ll ride along in the car, do some precarious experimentation with an iron, and finally meet Danny’s infamous “suit guy” in this intimate journey from mood board...
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The Game Awards Outfits From 2021 to 2024
Take a trip down memory lane with Danny and Riana as they break down their past red carpet puts for The Game Awards, DICE, and other events. Get a sneak peek into their process as they prepare for their biggest style moment yet! Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question?...
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The Best Gaming Handhelds for Travel
We’re going on a trip! Now, which gaming handheld should I pack? In this episode Danny and Riana walk us through their many portable devices and gaming-while-traveling experiences with each one. By the end of the conversation, they’ll choose the best one for their upcoming 2 week trip out of the...
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Relationship Building In Real Time
This week, we are LIVE with Danny and Riana as they answer some fun getting-to-know-you questions! Learn more about our hosts' favorite times of day, how gaming heals them, and their challenges in overcoming personal fears in this test run for an upcoming live episode. Got feedback for the show…
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Digital Showcases & the Changing Games Industry
In this insider POV discussion, Danny and Riana break down the evolution of gaming showcases and how their impact is changing. From the pioneering days of Nintendo Direct to the widespread adoption of digital presentations by major gaming companies, this episode explores the benefits and…
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The Ups and Downs of Buying a Home
In this conversation, Danny and Riana share their experiences of purchasing their first home during the pandemic. They discuss the challenges and emotional aspects of homeownership, including the competitive market, the stress of simultaneous wedding planning, and the various maintenance issues...
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Behind the Mic: The Importance of Public Speaking
Join Danny Peña and Riana Manuel-Peña as they delve into their journey from high school speakers to renowned keynote presenters. In this episode, they share insights on the art of storytelling, the challenges and triumphs of public speaking, and how their passion for gaming has influenced their...
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How Cardi B Is Writing the New Marketing Formula
Many modern marketing playbooks call for digital ads, disruptive tactics, and big stunts. So how are Cardi B and other industry leaders re-writing the formula for successful marketing campaigns? Danny & Riana discuss this and more in this episode. Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny &...
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Our Medical Emergency: A Near-Death Experience
In this heartfelt conversation, Riana and Danny share their personal journey through a health crisis that began with a fateful family trip to the San Diego Zoo. They discuss the events leading up to a life-altering diagnosis of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, near-death from internal bleeding, and...
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The Best Kept Secret for Startups and Small Businesses
Riana takes this episode solo and shows off one of D&R's keys to early success! Come along on a journey through the incredible FREE service offerings from the Small Business Development Center, and learn how they helped Danny and Riana launch their business with full confidence. Check out...
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Introducing: Quick Shot Consultations!
This episode is all business - with a healthy dose of motivation! Danny and Riana have opened up a new service for quick engagements - designed to give an expert second set of eyes to podcasters, brand marketing leads, and product launch teams with smaller budgets and tight timelines. Listen in...
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Reading Your Comments!
This episode is all about YOU! Danny and Riana are reading your comments, giving their responses, and taking in all the feedback from their recent releases. We are so grateful for every engagement and want you to keep it coming! Got feedback for the show or want to ask Danny & Riana a question?...
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Pivoting Your Life Plans
Danny and Riana's lives have taken many unexpected twists and turns, and not all of them were positive. In today's episode we hear about the challenges, failures, and pivots that led our hosts to where they are today. We also get some perspective on how to embrace life's curveballs, and keep...
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Changing Plans (Punta Cana Move Part 3)
This episode of the Danny & Riana show is coming to you from on location in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! We join our hosts during their weeklong stay in the Caribbean's most visited destination to catch up on their house hunt, what everyday life is like in Punta Cana, and how their plans have...
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Moving to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Our Plan (Part 2)
Danny & Riana LOVED seeing the responses and getting so much feedback from our latest episode discussing our plans to move their family to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic! In this episode, we go even deeper into the considerations, advantages, and research for this move, as well as answering some…
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About this show
Danny Peña and Riana Manuel-Peña have lived and worked in the games industry for a combined 30+ years. What have they learned in that time? Life (like gaming) is better together!
Join them on their journey through gaming conferences, red carpet events, baby milestones, marriage hurdles, and the occasional work update. Play along with game recommendations for busy parents and enjoy this seasoned couples’ sazón as they talk about their favorite memories, products, and experiences.
Business Email: [email protected]
Hosted by
Danny and Riana