PODCAST · business
The Personal Side of Business Podcast
by Jet Bunditwong
I connect with business owners, entrepreneurs and people living their dreams to tell their journeys and stories. My goal, is that if you are fulfilling your dream, you don’t feel like you’re alone and you can connect with these stories in some way. This podcast will interview people rom all types of different business categories to show what their world is like.
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He Lost It All… Then Built It Back Through Relationships | Shawn Finnegan
What happens when you go from raising $1.5 million… to just $2,500 in your bank account? In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, host Jet Bunditwong sits down with entrepreneur Shawn Finnegan, co-founder of TaxHive and creator of the X Room, to unpack one of the most powerful lessons in business: relationships are everything. Shawn shares the brutal reality of nearly losing it all—facing payroll he couldn’t cover, pressure from investors, and the weight of failure. But in that moment, he made a decision that changed everything: he rebuilt his business through connection, community, and strategic relationships. Today, that same philosophy has helped him: Scale multiple businesses Build a thriving entrepreneurial community (The X Room) Partner with high-profile names like Kevin O’Leary Help small business owners save thousands through smarter tax strategies This conversation dives deep into: Why most entrepreneurs ignore their network (and pay for it) The exact mindset shift that saved Shawn’s business How to walk into any room and build meaningful connections The biggest mistakes business owners make with taxes Why “who, not how” is the key to scaling If you’re building a business, feeling stuck, or trying to grow faster—this episode will change how you think about success. Your next breakthrough in business isn’t a strategy… It’s a relationship you haven’t built yet. Follow Shawn Finnegan on social media to learn more about: Tax strategy for small businesses Entrepreneur networking systems The X Room community IG-finneganshawn IG-the.xroom taxhive.com
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How to Teach Kids About Money, Saving & Financial Literacy Early | Kelly Lee
Why aren’t we teaching kids about money early enough? In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet sits down with Kelly Lee, author of the Little Economist book series, to talk about how she’s helping young children understand financial literacy in a way that’s simple, fun, and actually engaging. Kelly’s journey started during the pandemic after realizing how many adults were financially unprepared for uncertainty. As a new parent with a background in finance, she set out to create something she couldn’t find anywhere — educational tools that teach kids about money at a young age through storytelling and relatable concepts. Now, with multiple books and a growing audience, she’s on a mission to change how the next generation learns about money. In this episode, we cover: Why financial literacy isn’t taught early enough in schools How kids can understand concepts like saving, spending, and investing The power of storytelling in teaching complex ideas Why adults often overcomplicate money (and how to simplify it) How early exposure to money concepts can shape lifelong financial habits This conversation is for parents, entrepreneurs, and anyone who wishes they had learned about money earlier in life. If you want to understand how to build better financial habits — or help the next generation do it — this episode is a must-listen. Check out Kelly's website and socials: www.econforkids.com IG-little_economists tiktok-little_economists Check out more episodes at personalsideofbusiness.com
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Small Business Marketing Strategy: Amber Gaige on Buyer Intent, Lead Generation, Branding & Why Businesses Stop Growing
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet interviews Amber Gaige, marketing strategist and founder, to break down what actually drives small business growth, lead generation, and sales conversion in today’s competitive market. If you’re a business owner struggling with stagnant sales, low website traffic, poor lead flow, or inconsistent marketing results, this episode dives into the real reasons why—and how to fix them. Amber explains: How buyer intent marketing increases conversions and shortens the sales cycle The difference between marketing vs. sales systems (and why most businesses get it wrong) How to identify marketing pain points like low leads, low calls, and slow growth Why local SEO and geographic targeting matter for service-based businesses The importance of personal branding for entrepreneurs and small business owners How AI marketing tools, data analytics, and keyword targeting are changing the game Why video marketing, YouTube content, and brand visibility are now essential How to build trust, authority, and brand awareness that allows you to scale Whether you’re in home services, restaurants, e-commerce, or professional services, this episode gives practical insights into building a marketing strategy that actually produces results. If you’ve ever asked: Why is my business not growing? Why am I not getting enough leads? How do I improve my marketing strategy? Do I need to hire a marketer? This conversation will give you clarity on your next move. Because successful businesses don’t just work harder—they market smarter. To contact Amber Gaige, please click on the link below. https://farbeyondmarketing.com/ To listen and watch more episodes of The Personal Side of Business, click below. personalsideofbusiness.com
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How Intelligence Training Improves Leadership, Communication & Influence | Former Operative Don Weber
Former intelligence operative Dr. Don Weber joins The Personal Side of Business to share how decades working in global intelligence shaped his understanding of leadership, influence, communication, and human behavior. After operating in high-risk international environments where reading people correctly could mean survival, Don now works with executives and organizations to help leaders better understand motivation, trust, and decision-making inside modern businesses. In this episode, we explore: How intelligence training translates directly into leadership success The psychology behind influence and persuasion Why emotional intelligence is a competitive advantage in business How great leaders motivate different personality types Lessons from high-pressure environments that apply to entrepreneurs today This conversation bridges two worlds — intelligence operations and business leadership — revealing practical insights leaders can immediately apply to building stronger teams and making better decisions. personalsideofbusiness.com https://drwebercoaching.com/
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From Trauma to Purpose: John A. King on Healing, Identity, and the Work Men Avoid
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet Bunditwong sits down with John A. King for a deeply honest conversation about trauma, masculinity, and rebuilding life after everything falls apart. John shares his personal journey of surviving childhood abuse and trafficking, the moment his life imploded at the height of professional success, and how years of recovery reshaped his identity, purpose, and work with men today. Together, they explore: Why many men suffer in silence How trauma shows up later in life—often in our 40s and 50s The difference between “fixing” and healing Why men heal better shoulder-to-shoulder, not face-to-face How small, consistent habits can radically change a life over time The role culture, upbringing, and masculinity play in emotional health John also explains the philosophy behind The Phoenix Collective—a practical framework designed to help men move forward with clarity, discipline, and connection, without shame or dependency. This episode is reflective, grounded, and real—especially for anyone navigating stress, burnout, identity shifts, or unprocessed trauma. 🎙️ Because behind every business, every career, and every life path… there’s a personal story. drjohnaking.com personalsideofbusiness.com
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Building Teams the Right Way: HR Through a Human Lens
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, host Jet Bunditwong sits down with Sara Nicholson, Human Resource Advisor with the San Diego SBDC, for an in-depth conversation on what every entrepreneur needs to understand about HR—before hiring their first employee. Sara shares her unconventional path from accounting and hospitality into human resources, and explains why HR is not the “evil department,” but rather the oil that keeps a business engine running smoothly. Together, they break down common HR myths, California compliance realities, and the foundational steps business owners must take to protect themselves and their teams. This episode covers: The essential HR foundations every business needs before hiring Independent contractors vs. employees and why misclassification is risky How to attract and retain quality employees on a limited budget Why company culture matters more than perks or pay alone Behavioral interviewing techniques that reveal how candidates really think The role AI can—and cannot—play in modern HR practices Whether you are hiring your first employee, scaling from 5 to 50, or simply want to reduce legal and emotional stress as a business owner, this conversation offers practical, real-world guidance grounded in experience and empathy. 🎧 A must-listen for entrepreneurs who want to grow responsibly, confidently, and human-first. https://sdivsbdc.org/ personalsideofbusiness.com
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Family, Freedom, and 47 Countries: The Journey of Attorney Matt Paré
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, I sit down with San Diego injury attorney Matt Paré, whose story goes far beyond legal success. From growing up in small-town Maine to building his own thriving law practice, Matt shares how he’s crafted a career that allows him to travel the world with his family—visiting over 47 countries and skiing on three continents. We dive deep into the entrepreneurial side of law, exploring how discipline, persistence, and strategic relationships helped him become a leading personal injury lawyer. Matt also reveals how AI technology is transforming legal work, from uncovering city records to managing complex medical cases, and why this innovation is leveling the playing field for solo practitioners. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, attorney, or traveler at heart, this episode will inspire you to design a business—and a life—that values freedom, balance, and global perspective. Listen to learn: How Matt transitioned from firm associate to successful solo attorney Why travel experiences shape better business and personal values How AI is becoming a game-changer in the legal industry What mindset and structure create long-term career freedom (Episode from The Personal Side of Business with Jet Bunditwong) www.personalsideofbusiness.com www.mattpare.com
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How Paul Ramirez Found Purpose Through Hardship and Faith
What does it take to go from being a teenage father with no roadmap to leading one of San Diego’s trusted plumbing companies? In this episode, Jet Bunditwong talks with Paul Ramirez, owner of Speedi Rooter Plumbing & Drain, about his extraordinary journey of resilience, faith, and entrepreneurship. Paul shares how he: Overcame early hardships and built a strong work ethic Learned the plumbing trade from mentors and turned it into a career Navigated failure, financial struggles, and personal loss Rebuilt his business and life with purpose and faith Now runs a debt-free company guided by integrity and stewardship This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about where you start — it’s about persistence, humility, and heart. Speedirooter.com 🎙️ The Personal Side of Business highlights real entrepreneurs, real challenges, and the human stories behind every business journey. #Entrepreneurship #TradesBusiness #SmallBusiness #Inspiration #FaithAndWork #JetBunditwong #SpeediRooter #PersonalSideOfBusiness #ThePersonalSideofBusiness #SanDiego
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Beyond Interest Rates: Cristen Carver on Humanity, Hard Lessons & Helping People Start Over
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet sits down with mortgage veteran Cristen Carver, a powerhouse with nearly four decades of experience in lending, real estate cycles, and consumer finance. Cristen shares how the mortgage world has evolved—from the wild, unregulated days of the ’80s and ’90s to today’s highly structured, compliance-driven industry. She breaks down the truth behind interest rates, the real causes of foreclosures, what first-time buyers should realistically expect, and why Southern California’s housing market is unlike anywhere else. You’ll hear: How mortgage lending has transformed over 40 years What really drives housing affordability Why buyers often get in trouble—and how to prevent it The rise of 100% financing and alternative qualification programs How remote work reshaped where Americans can live and buy Cristen’s top advice for becoming a successful loan officer Why networking and honesty matter more than ever in this industry Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a real estate professional, or someone trying to understand this shifting market, Cristen brings clarity, honesty, and decades of wisdom to the conversation. personalsideofbusiness.com https://www.cristencarverlender4u.com/
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From Expat Dream to Global Business: How Brian Samson Built a Nearshore Empire in Argentina
What happens when you leave a comfortable life in San Francisco to chase an international dream? In this episode, host Jet Bunditwong talks with Brian Samson, an entrepreneur who turned an expat adventure in Argentina into a thriving nearshore tech company. Brian shares how he raised $2 million, built a software team from the ground up, and learned to navigate Argentina’s complex business environment — all while redefining what it means to be a global founder. 🎙️ You’ll learn: How to build a company abroad (and survive the red tape) The real difference between offshore and nearshore outsourcing Why more U.S. businesses are hiring talent across Latin America How to think like a global entrepreneur — even if you start local Whether you’re dreaming of living abroad, scaling a startup, or just curious how far determination can take you, Brian’s story will inspire you to think bigger — and go global. https://plugg.tech/ https://personalsideofbusiness.com/
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From Marine to Pilot: The Flight That Changed Everything with Tim Pierce of Hive Aviation
When a Groupon discovery flight turned into a life-changing moment, Tim Pierce knew he had found his calling. In this episode, host Jet Bunditwong talks with the founder of Hive Aviation, a Northern San Diego flight school offering affordable, personalized training for future pilots. Tim opens up about his journey from serving in the Marine Corps to becoming a private flight instructor and entrepreneur. He shares the highs and lows of building his aviation business, how discipline from military life shaped his teaching style, and what it truly takes to earn your wings—both in the air and in business. ✈️ Highlights: How one flight changed Tim’s life forever The real cost and commitment behind becoming a pilot Turning aviation passion into a sustainable business Lessons from military service that apply to entrepreneurship Overcoming fear, failure, and turbulence along the way 🎙️ Tune in to discover the personal side of flying, entrepreneurship, and chasing your dreams above the clouds. You can contact Tim @ https://www.fly-hive.com/ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ #Aviation #Entrepreneurship #VeteranBusiness #FlightTraining #PilotLife #SmallBusiness #PersonalSideOfBusiness #ThePersonalSideofBusiness #SanDiego
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Faith, Family, and Potato Chips: The Teton Valley Brands Story
What does it take to turn a $10,000 dream into a thriving snack brand? In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet Bunditwong sits down with Kyle and Amy Nehring, founders of Teton Valley Brands Potato Chips in Boise, Idaho. From late-night packaging sessions in their basement to raising capital and building a full production facility, their journey is one of grit, sacrifice, and resilience. You’ll hear: How a college idea became Idaho’s signature chip brand 🥔 The risks they took—selling their home, living without pay, and nearly losing it all 💸 Why faith and family were their foundation through the hardest years 🙏 Lessons in scaling, funding, and building strong partnerships 🚀 This is more than a snack story—it’s a blueprint for perseverance, entrepreneurship, and turning vision into reality. Follow The Personal Side of Business for more inspiring founder stories that reveal the people and passions behind today’s businesses. https://www.tetonvalleybrands.com/ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Food Blogging to Wild Rise Pizza Co: Natalie Perry’s Entrepreneurial Journey
How does a personal blog about family recipes evolve into a 17-year career as a food blogger, cookbook author, and now the founder of Wild Rise Pizza Co.? In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet Bunditwong sits down with Natalie Perry in Boise, Idaho, to explore her inspiring path from casual food blogging to creating artisan sourdough pizza kits. Natalie shares: How food blogging “accidentally” became her career. The lessons learned from photography, SEO, and cookbook publishing. Why she launched Wild Rise Pizza Co. and how she’s growing it locally. The balance between passion, family, and building a sustainable business. If you’re curious about turning creativity into a livelihood—or you just love the idea of fresh sourdough pizza—this episode delivers both inspiration and practical takeaways. https://www.perrysplate.com/ https://www.hotplate.com/wildrisepizzaco Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Air Force to Entrepreneurship with Lindsay Hinger
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, host Jet Bunditwong talks with Lindsay Hinger, a U.S. Air Force veteran and business advisor with the Chapel Hill, SBTDC. Lindsay shares her path from figuring out logistics to launching two businesses, the unique challenges military spouses face, and the lessons she’s learned about resilience, mental health, and having an exit strategy. A must-listen for entrepreneurs navigating the highs and lows of business ownership, especially if you are a Veteran or military spouse. 👉 Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-hinger/ 📧 Email: https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Divorce Without Destruction: Finding Clarity, Compassion & Cooperation
Divorce doesn’t have to be a war. In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, I sit down with Barney Connaughton — founder of A Healthy Divorce, experienced mediator, and author of Untangling Together: A Healthy Divorce Guide and Workbook. With more than 30 years in family law, Barney has helped countless couples turn one of life’s most difficult transitions into an opportunity for healing, cooperation, and hope. We discuss: How mediation saves time, money, and emotional energy compared to litigation Ways to support children during divorce without putting them in the middle Common communication breakdowns and how to repair them Why taking a holistic approach — blending education, emotional awareness, and financial planning — leads to healthier outcomes Real-life stories where mediation changed everything — and even saved marriages Whether you're navigating a divorce, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about healthier ways to handle life’s hardest transitions, this episode will leave you informed, inspired, and empowered. https://ahealthydivorce.com/ 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to hear more powerful conversations on The Personal Side of Business. Please check out our YouTube channel as well. #DivorceMediation #HealthyDivorce #PersonalSideOfBusiness #CoParenting #FamilyLaw Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Owning Your Voice: Pam Covarrubias on Liberation, Resilience & Main Character Energy
In this powerful episode of The Personal Side of Business, host Jet Bunditwong sits down with Pam Covarrubias — coach, speaker, and host of the acclaimed podcast Café con Pam. Pam shares her journey from buying a retired rapper’s microphone to becoming a voice for first-generation women, dismantling the Calladita culture, and stepping fully into bold, unapologetic authenticity. Through raw storytelling, she unpacks the “five wounds” that keep women silent, underpaid, and burned out — and how understanding them can spark healing, confidence, and collective empowerment. This conversation dives deep into resilience, cultural shifts, and why owning your main character energy might just be the key to rewriting your story. If you’re ready for inspiration, laughter, and a new perspective on liberation in life and business, this episode is for you. CafeconPam.com Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Breakdown to Breakthrough: How Sarah Dolgen Heals Through Food
What if your lowest moment became the start of your life’s true calling? Meet Sarah Dolgen, a single mom who turned heartbreak, isolation, and uncertainty into Cooking with Love—a deeply personal chef service that brings comfort, healing, and connection to every plate. In this intimate episode of The Personal Side of Business, Sarah shares how feeding friends during the pandemic grew into a purpose-driven business serving busy families, cancer patients, and anyone craving food that truly cares. With no recipes—just intuition, love, and global flavors—she’s built a brand on healing from the inside out. If you’ve ever believed that food is more than fuel, or wondered how to turn pain into purpose, this episode will stay with you long after the last bite. https://www.cooknwithluv.com/ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Dirt to Development: Crystal Hilsley’s Agri-Impact Mission
In this powerful episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet Bunditwong sits down with Crystal Hilsley—founder of CCNG Developments—to explore her inspiring journey from psychology student to global consultant and sustainable agriculture leader. Crystal shares how her childhood in Paso Robles shaped her passion for clean eating and farming, why she walked away from corporate success, and how she's transforming communities with micro-farms and agrihoods. Learn how regenerative agriculture, food justice, and wellness intersect with real estate development, education, and entrepreneurship. Whether you're a business owner, educator, or parent, this episode offers practical wisdom and soul-driven strategy to grow something meaningful—right from the ground up. https://ccng.dev/ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Breaking Money Cycles: A First-Gen’s Guide to Healing Financial Trauma
📝 Show Description: Andrea Arroyo joins Jet Bunditwong to share her powerful journey from nonprofit work to financial coaching. As a first-generation wealth builder, Andrea unpacks the emotional, cultural, and psychological barriers many face with money—from living paycheck to paycheck to dealing with guilt, shame, and anxiety around spending. She shares real-life strategies to help listeners shift their mindset, break generational money patterns, and build financial security—no matter their income level. Whether you're in your 20s just starting out or navigating your 30s with a growing family, this episode is packed with relatable wisdom and practical advice to help you take control of your financial future. To reach Andrea Arroyo, IG @riquezaconandrea Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Purpose Over Profit: Diana Barbiani’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Diana Barbiani went from surviving the war in Croatia to becoming a successful business owner, wholesaler, and philanthropist in San Diego. In this powerful episode of The Personal Side of Business, Diana shares how she built her first kiosk business from the ground up without speaking English — and turned it into a two-decade journey of retail, wholesale, and purpose-driven leadership. We dive into the personal and emotional challenges behind running a business, why personal development is essential for entrepreneurs, and how giving back can actually grow your brand. Diana also shares her passion for helping women and nonprofits amplify their voices through smart partnerships and personal branding. Whether you’re just starting out, running a CPG brand, or trying to merge purpose with profit, this episode is packed with lessons, laughs, and actionable advice. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Foreclosures to Fortune: Joe Mendoza’s Real Estate Comeback Story
In this powerful episode of The Personal Side of Business, we sit down with Joe Mendoza—investor, commercial realtor, business coach, author, and speaker—for an unfiltered journey through the highs and humbling lows of real estate entrepreneurship. From watching his father hustle in the Navy to losing millions during the 2008 crash, Joe shares how he built back smarter, stronger, and with a mission bigger than wealth: impact. We explore his rise from part-time bill collector to top 1% realtor, his path into syndications and commercial real estate, and the mindset shift that redefined his definition of success. Joe unpacks his business philosophies, what he looks for in coaching clients, and how scaling with the right people and systems changed everything. Whether you're just starting out, pivoting after a setback, or aiming to scale big—this episode is your roadmap. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Boardrooms & Breakthroughs: The Psychology Behind High-Performing Leaders
What happens when a former IT executive trades boardrooms for therapy rooms? In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, we sit down with Dr. Deke Marcus, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in helping executives and entrepreneurs understand themselves—and their teams—on a deeper level. Dr. Marcus shares how emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and leadership development are often rooted in unresolved childhood dynamics and how even the most successful professionals can struggle with imposter syndrome, isolation, and burnout. From real-life leadership pitfalls to transformative breakthroughs, this conversation offers powerful insights for anyone looking to lead with purpose, balance, and empathy. Whether you're scaling a startup or managing a team of 500, this episode will change the way you think about executive success. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Football Dreams to Purpose-Driven Impact: Johnathan King’s Empower Pathways Journey
In this powerful episode of The Personal Side of Business, we sit down with Johnathan King, co-founder of Empower Pathways—an adult day program in San Diego helping young adults with disabilities lead fuller lives. Once a football player dreaming of the NFL, Johnathan took a leap of faith from teaching into entrepreneurship to create a meaningful program inspired by his father’s passion for education. He shares how he navigated red tape, the emotional highs of placing his first clients in jobs, and the overwhelming challenge of scaling with heart. From SeaWorld job offers to surprise Lamborghini rides, Johnathan’s mission is as moving as it is impactful. Whether you're an entrepreneur or someone looking to make a difference, this story will remind you that purpose often lies where passion meets courage. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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14
Law, Legacy, and Liberty: Daniel Castaneda on Fighting for Immigrant Rights
In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, we sit down with Daniel Castaneda, a seasoned San Diego-based immigration and criminal defense attorney with over 15 years of experience. Born in Mexico City and shaped by a family legacy of lawyers, Daniel shares his personal journey—from studying psychology and international relations to finding his calling in the courtroom. He opens up about the emotional complexities of representing detained immigrants, the shifting tides of U.S. immigration enforcement, and the real-life impact of deportation on families. Daniel also offers critical legal insights for undocumented individuals—clarifying their rights, sharing advice on staying prepared, and reflecting on what he would change in the current immigration system. Whether you're navigating immigration law or simply seeking to understand it better, this episode delivers powerful stories and actionable knowledge from the front lines of justice. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Chasing Stability, Creating Legacy: Peter Carlseen’s Real Estate Success Story
In this episode, we sit down with Peter Carlseen — a San Diego-based realtor and property manager with over 20 years in the game. Following in his father’s footsteps, Peter began his real estate journey early and used his college business education to build a thriving property management company. Now managing over 250 properties, Peter shares the smart systems, strategic hires, and long-term mindset that helped him scale sustainably. If you're looking to grow a real estate business or understand what it takes to build legacy in the industry, this is one you won't want to miss. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Roots & Real Estate: Shylia Hernandez’s Journey from Psychology Dreams to Property Success
Shylia Hernandez didn’t just grow into real estate—she was born into it. With nearly two decades of experience and deep family roots in the industry, Shylia carved out her own path in the competitive San Diego market. Once aspiring to be a child psychologist, life’s twists led her to real estate, where she found the flexibility to raise her daughter and build a thriving business. In this episode, she opens up about motherhood, her passion for long-term client relationships, and how she blends heart and hustle in every deal. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Tooth Fairy to Foodie Fame: The Marvelous Muncher's Wild Ride into Marketing
Who ditches dental school to help tacos go viral? Vince did—and he’s not looking back. In this fun and flavorful episode, we unpack how Vince swapped scrubs for strategy and built a buzzworthy marketing biz helping San Diego restaurants (and even dental offices!) grow their revenue and their fan base. From Instagram-worthy food shots to brand makeovers that bite, Vince shares the creative moves behind his success—and how you can apply them to your business, too. Spoiler: it’s not just about pretty pictures. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Rooted in Love: Noe Avila’s Mission to Heal Marginalized Communities
Noe Avila knows what it’s like to grow up in an immigrant family — the pressure, the expectations, the unspoken emotions. That’s why he’s made it his life’s mission to help families just like his learn to open up, connect, and support each other through life’s ups and downs. As a family and marriage therapist, Noe brings heart, understanding, and real-life experience to every session. He’s not just here to listen — he’s here to help families grow stronger together, one honest conversation at a time. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and people pursuing their passion while shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of their journey. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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From Pain to Purpose: How Jenna Ryan Turned UTI Struggles Into a Thriving Wellness Brand
In this episode, we sit down with Jenna Ryan, the inspiring Co-founder of Uqora—a company born from a deeply personal journey. After battling 8 painful UTIs in one year, Jenna and her husband, Spencer, decided to take matters into their own hands. Combining Spencer's science background with Jenna's expertise in e-commerce, they launched Uqora, a brand that has grown into a trusted resource for UTI prevention and education. Jenna shares how they built not just a product line, but a powerful community where people can share stories, find support, and reclaim their health. Tune in to hear how a personal health challenge sparked a mission-driven business that’s changing lives. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and community leaders, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of keeping small businesses alive. If you love perseverance, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Uqora.com Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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Savor & Serve: The Akitso Story, A Nonprofit Saving Restaurants
Join us on this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Savor & Serve: The Akitso Story, where we dive into the inspiring journey of Anna Sotto, a California native born to Thai immigrant restaurateurs. Growing up in the hustle of her family’s restaurant, Anna witnessed firsthand the struggles of small, independent eateries. Now, she’s on a mission to give back. Through her nonprofit, Akitso, she helps underserved restaurants thrive by providing essential support in marketing, financial literacy, operational efficiency, branding, menu revamps, and restaurant redesigns. Each episode features heartfelt stories from business owners, industry experts, and community leaders, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of keeping small businesses alive. If you love food, entrepreneurship, and community impact, this is the podcast for you! Follow now and discover how Anna and Akitso are reshaping San Diego’s food scene, one restaurant at a time. 🍽✨ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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7
Fortitude, Family & Football : How an unexpected life event inspired a change for a business owner.
What happens when life keeps pulling you in different directions—literally? After moving nearly 30 times with her family, facing a life-threatening health scare, and completely reinventing her career, Tiffany Deal Hecklinski Ph.D., knows what it means to adapt, overcome, and thrive. Now a Ph.D. clinical researcher, she shares her deeply personal journey of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation. From uprooting her life again and again to fighting for her health and finding a purpose bigger than she ever imagined, this podcast is for anyone who’s had to start over, pivot, or push through the impossible. 🎧 Tune in for this powerful story of reinvention, perseverance, and what it truly means to build a life—even when the ground beneath you is constantly shifting. Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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6
Love & Business: Running a Restaurant as a Couple (Kalei's Kitchenette)
A deep discussion with Chef Andy & Khara Mangiduyos, hospitality employees who turned into restauranteurs and share how business plans, hard work and date nights are the foundations of a happy marriage and business partnership. Kalei's Kitchenette serves some of the best Hawaiian cuisine in San Diego with an Aloha vibe unlike any other. We will explore their journey from working in the hospitality industry to catering to being a donation center for the Maui fires while running their new restaurant. https://www.kaleiskitchenette.com/ Alaska ATMOS Rewards https://alaska.gqco.net/2aZ9DG Hilton Honors Rewards https://hilton.ijrn.net/mOYVPZ
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
I connect with business owners, entrepreneurs and people living their dreams to tell their journeys and stories. My goal, is that if you are fulfilling your dream, you don’t feel like you’re alone and you can connect with these stories in some way. This podcast will interview people rom all types of different business categories to show what their world is like.
HOSTED BY
Jet Bunditwong
CATEGORIES
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