In this episode of In The Arena, we sit down with John Schroder, former Louisiana State Treasurer, businessman, and dedicated public servant. From his early days in law enforcement and the military to managing the state’s multi-billion-dollar investment portfolios, John’s career is a testament to resilience, service, and leadership.

Born and raised in Jefferson Parish, John took a leap of faith by joining the U.S. Army, where he became a CID Special Agent. His unique journey includes going from getting busted for weed in the Army to working as a narcotics detective before transitioning into business and politics. His passion for community impact also led him to co-found the Hospice House through the Hospice Foundation of the South’s Crawfish Cook-off.

Elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2007 and later serving as State Treasurer from 2017 to 2024, John played a key role in managing the state's $5.7 billion investment portfolios, leading the Louisiana State Bond Commission, and returning millions in unclaimed property to citizens. A strong advocate for fiscal responsibility and government accountability, John has always prioritized the interests of taxpayers.

🎧 Tune in for insights on:
✅ Taking a leap of faith into the military
✅ Becoming a CID agent and his experiences in law enforcement
✅ His transition from business to politics
✅ The importance of fiscal responsibility in government
✅ His role in helping Louisiana citizens reclaim millions

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What would you do if money were no object? 🤔 That question changed everything for Ryan Enk, a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and author of The 7 Day Real Estate Survival Blueprint. He also runs the @RealEstateInvestorSecretsYouTube channel, where he helps others achieve financial freedom through real estate.

In this episode of In The Arena Podcast, co-hosts Lauren Navarre and Jared Miguez sit down with Ryan to discuss:
🏚️ How job struggles after Hurricane Katrina led him to entrepreneurship
📉 Failing in business and pivoting into real estate and sales
⚽ The leap of faith that led him to open an indoor sports arena
💡 Why passion should come before money in entrepreneurship
👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Juggling business and raising five boys

Ryan’s journey proves that true success comes from doing what you love—and that financial stability follows when you pursue your passion with discipline.

Follow Ryan on Social:

Instagram: @RyanEnk

Facebook: @Ryan Enk

LinkedIn: @Ryan Enk

Youtube: @Realestateinvestorsecrets

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How does local media stay relevant in a rapidly changing digital world? Brian Shirey, Vice President & General Manager of Northshore Media Group, joins co-hosts Lauren Navarre and Jared Miguez to break it all down.

From a small group of radio stations to a multi-platform media powerhouse, Northshore Media Group has grown into a key player in Louisiana and Southwest Mississippi, serving communities through radio, print, digital marketing, and live event coverage. 📡📰

In this episode, Brian shares:
✅ The history and evolution of Northshore Media Group
✅ Why local media still matters in today’s digital world
✅ How they help businesses market effectively on a budget
✅ The impact of Northshore’s growing economy on media & advertising

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Welcome to this dynamic episode of the In the Arena Podcast, where media maven Marcus Clark sits down with co-hosts Jonah Fry and Mallory Davis to explore the art and business of creative storytelling. In this must-watch video, Marcus—an accomplished Media Producer, director, cinematographer, video editor, and photographer—shares his in-depth experience with videography in Louisiana, dives into the fascinating world of political videography, and reveals what truly surprised him about stepping into the creative arena.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, entrepreneur, or media professional, Marcus’s innovative mindset and technical expertise offer invaluable insights to future-proof your career in the evolving landscape of digital media.

Don't Forget:
👍 Like, comment, and share if you find this content inspiring.
🔔 Subscribe for more expert discussions and cutting-edge media insights.

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What does it take to go from cold calls to closing deals and owning a multi-state real estate portfolio? Drew Pearson knows firsthand.

Drew started as a commercial real estate broker, grinding his way up before making the leap to ownership. Now, he manages 14+ self-storage facilities across two states, serving thousands of customers. His approach? Processes, discipline, and laser focus.

In this episode of In The Arena, co-hosts Lauren Navarre and Jared Miguez dive into Drew’s journey and uncover the strategies that helped him scale his business.

🎧 Listen now to learn:
✅ The #1 thing businesses need to scale sustainably
✅ Why self-awareness is a game-changer for entrepreneurs
✅ How Drew built and optimized a growing storage empire

💡 If you're an entrepreneur, investor, or looking to scale your business, this episode is packed with insights you can apply today.

🔥 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights from top business leaders!

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In this episode of In the Arena, we sit down with Ron Gitz, CPA, CGMA, the Executive Director and CEO of the Louisiana CPA Society, to discuss the future of accounting, CPA career opportunities, and the biggest challenges facing the profession today.

Ron shares insights on:
✅ The CPA talent shortage and workforce challenges
✅ How Louisiana CPAs advocate for tax policies and licensing laws
✅ The importance of continuing education and lifelong learning in accounting
✅ The role of technology and AI in the future of CPA firms
✅ Why CPAs never really retire and their impact on business success

As a registered lobbyist and advocate for the profession, Ron works directly with legislators, business leaders, and future accountants to ensure the CPA profession remains strong and relevant in a changing world. Whether you're an aspiring CPA, seasoned accountant, or business owner, this conversation is packed with valuable insights on finance, accounting, and professional growth.

🔔 Subscribe for more business, leadership, and finance discussions!

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On this episode of In The Arena, co-hosts Jared Miguez and Dominic Luke sit down with Dean Lopez, the Dean of the College of Business at Southeastern Louisiana University, and Emily Anthony, who leads the Office of Military and Veteran Success.

Dean Lopez shares his insights on developing future business leaders, adapting curriculum to a changing world, and the role of higher education in shaping tomorrow’s workforce.

Emily Anthony discusses the unique challenges and opportunities for veterans returning to school, how her office helps them transition successfully into academic life, and the resources available to set them up for long-term success.

Whether you’re a student, veteran, or entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable lessons on leadership, education, and building a brighter future.

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On this episode of In The Arena Podcast, co-hosts Lauren Navarre and Jared Miguez sit down with real estate investor Paul Snow to discuss why success in real estate is all about playing the long game.

Paul shares invaluable insights on:

• Riding the Waves: Real estate comes with its ups and downs—learn how to stay steady in volatile markets.
• Proactive Strategies: Why being proactive, not reactive, is the key to building long-term success.
• Putting in the Time: The importance of patience, consistency, and dedication in creating lasting wealth through real estate.
• Lessons from the Trenches: Paul's experiences navigating challenges and how he's learned to weather the storms.

Whether you're just starting in real estate or looking to level up your strategy, Paul’s advice will inspire you to think big, stay patient, and play the long game. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about creating sustainable success!

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This week, Lauren Navarre sits down with 20-year-old entrepreneur Ella Croteau, the owner of the luxury spray tan business, Golden by Ella.

In this motivational episode, Ella shares her incredible story of growing up in an entrepreneurial family and how it inspired her to launch her own business right out of high school. From discovering her “why” to empowering young women to live with confidence, Ella proves that passion and purpose can create success at any age.

If you're looking for inspiration, confidence tips, or insight into the journey of a young entrepreneur, this episode is for YOU! 

CONNECT WITH ELLA!
https://www.instagram.com/golden.byella/
https://www.instagram.com/ellacroteau/

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In just one week, Brice Bivona (aka BriPVanders) went viral on TikTok, gaining nearly 600k followers with her stunning videos capturing moody, stormy vibes from Louisiana to Oregon. Her unique aesthetic and cinematic storytelling have captivated audiences worldwide, making her a standout creator in the digital space.

In this episode of In The Arena Podcast, Brice reveals the secrets behind her viral success, including the backstory of her famous staircase video. She dives into the realities of social media fame, sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how she stays authentic while connecting with her growing audience of stormy-weather lovers.

If you’re an aspiring content creator, social media enthusiast, or just curious about what it takes to go viral in today’s competitive landscape, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

📲 CONNECT WITH BRICE!
Instagram: @bripvanders
TikTok: @bripvanders

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