| Two Incredible Armenian Success Stories |

What does it take to build a legacy?

In this powerful episode of **Between the Notes**, Paisan Kapitan sits down with two men whose journeys couldn't be more different—but whose determination led them to extraordinary success.

🎧 **DJ Apo** shares the untold story behind his rise from violin player to one of the well known entertainment names in the Armenian culture. From remixing legendary Armenian classics and producing club anthems to reading a crowd of thousands, he opens up about the career, the pressure, the mistakes, and the passion that built his name.

🥖 **Arsen Vardanyan**, founder of **K'arsi Bakery & Lavash**, tells one of the most inspiring immigrant stories you'll hear. Growing up in extreme poverty, living with his family inside a converted train wagon, serving in the military, sleeping on restaurant tables while chasing opportunity, winning the Green Card lottery, risking everything to open his first bakery with almost nothing... and ultimately building one of Southern California's fastest-growing Armenian bakeries.

Along the way you'll hear conversations about:

• Growing up with nothing—and refusing to stay there

• Preserving Armenian music for a new generation

• The mindset behind entrepreneurship and financial freedom

• Building businesses through faith, sacrifice, and perseverance 

Wedding DJ secrets and unforgettable moments

• Why "Be Different" may be the best business advice you'll ever hear

• The importance of family, purpose, and never giving up

Whether you're chasing a dream, building a business, creating music, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, honest stories, and plenty of laughs. As always, Paisan wraps up the show with an encouraging prayer for health, success, and everyone watching at home.

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🎙️ SUPPORT OUR GUESTS

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🎤 DJ APO

Instagram: @DJ.APO

YouTube:  @DJAPO 

🎵 ARSEN VARDANYAN / K'ARSI LAVASH & BAKERY

Instagram:  @KARSILAVASH 

Locations:

GLENDALE: 222 N VERDUGO RD. (818)805-2002

BURBANK: 336 S GLENOAKS BLVD (818)805-2004

🎙️ PAISAN KAPITAN

Instagram: @paisankapitan

www.PaisanKapitan.com

Available for Hosting, Improv and Voiceovers* Email: [email protected]

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🎬 PRODUCTION NOTES

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Featured music videos used in this production were provided by, approved by, and used with permission from the writers, producers, and performers of the featured songs, who also appeared as guests in this episode. Background Music: Morning Light Music License #: 2510-71789

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🎥 PRODUCED BY

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Wayne Lewis

Chummy Inc.

© 2026

All Rights Reserved.

— DISCLAIMER --

The views, opinions, statements, allegations, and personal experiences expressed by guests appearing on Between the Notes are solely those of the individual guest and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions, or beliefs of Chummy Inc., Hye Jams Radio, Between the Notes, its hosts, producers, sponsors, affiliates, employees, contractors, or representatives. Guests are responsible for their own statements and characterizations of events. Any references to individuals, organizations, companies, productions, events, or public figures are presented as the guest's personal recollections, opinions, or experiences. Chummy Inc., Hye Jams Radio, and Between the Notes make no independent representations regarding the accuracy, completeness, or veracity of such statements. This program is intended for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only.

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