Small businesses face unique challenges—cash flow, credit, risk, and growth. In this episode, I talk with Ryan Melendez, an experienced banker and advisor, about the tools and insights every business owner should know. With an “old school” relationship-first style, Ryan breaks down how the right banking partner can help you build, protect, and scale your business.

En mi primer episodio completamente en español, me siento a hablar con la imparable Chef Mina Ibáñez, la fuerza detrás de ChillaKillers. Un restaurante que nace de la pasión, la resiliencia y la convicción de que el trabajo duro siempre da frutos. Ya seas un emprendedor en ciernes, un amante de la buena comida o alguien persiguiendo su propio sueño, el camino de Mina demuestra que con coraje, crecimiento y determinación, el éxito siempre es posible.

Growing up in Sabinal, TX, with a graduating class of just 45 people, Ricky set his sights on Austin, earning his business degree from St. Edward’s University while grinding through night shifts to make it happen. From there, he co-founded TPS, developing a government payment system that sold in 2002, then doubled down in mobile payments before getting acquired in 2024. Not one to slow down, he launched Casa Crew Remodeling in 2021 and BXN in 2019, proving that reinvention is the real key to success.

Rodney Brulloths - BXN Co-Founder. 

In this episode of Manny’s Sales Soirée, I sit down with Rodney, the co-founder of BXN (Business Exchange Network). The group that’s been shaking up the way Austin’s local small businesses.

We swap stories about the power of networking, dive into some of our favorite motivational books, and talk about why surrounding yourself with the right people can change the game for your business and your mindset. If you’re an Austin entrepreneur or just someone who believes your network is your net worth… this one’s for you!

In this episode I sat down with Kate from Pacha Mama Bees, who went from living in Egypt and Argentina to building a full-on apiary business in Austin with her husband Julio. Julio grew up in Lima, Peru, with family from the Andes, where his grandparents lived fully off the land. Growing their own food, raising animals, even making their own bricks. That spirit lives on in their business name: Pacha Mama, which means “Mother Earth” in Quechua. What started as a hobby turned into hive leasing, enterprise beekeeping. This isn’t your average honey story.

Follow Pacha Mama Bees:
Facebook: facebook.com/pachamamabees
Instagram: instagram.com/pachamamabees

In this episode of Manny’s Sales Soirée, I sit down with Dagan Martinez-Vargas, a man with a plan for when crap hits the fan… literally. As a seasoned independent insurance broker, he’s the go-to guy for life insurance (even the hard cases no one else can cover), infinite banking strategies, and policies that protect you from everything short of an alien invasion. But here’s the kicker—his goal is to help you never need his policies and still get your money back.

On top of that, Dagan is a networking ninja and the author of Play the Room: The Short Guide to Networking. If you’ve ever left a networking event wondering why you just wasted two hours collecting business cards that will never amount to anything, this book (and this episode) is for you.

In this inspiring episode of Manny’s Sales Soirée, we dive deep into the powerful transformation of Michele Schalin — visionary entrepreneur, digital strategist, and now, a beacon of personal healing and mindful living. Known for building Josiesque Designs into a successful digital agency offering WordPress design, SEO, and PPC solutions, Michele was once laser-focused on high-performance business and fitness.

But everything changed after a devastating back injury. What followed was not just recovery — it was a reinvention.

Now the author of Mindful Metamorphosis: A Compassionate Guide to Inner Transformation, Michele shares how she turned pain into purpose, blending 30+ years of coaching with mindfulness, emotional resilience, and time mastery to help individuals and teams thrive from the inside out. From the boardroom to burnout and back again, Michele’s story is a masterclass in redefining success on your own terms.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or just ready for your next evolution — this episode is your sign.

In this exciting episode of Manny’s Sales Soirée, we sit down with Hilton Kill, the visionary founder of Balarini Floors, a brand synonymous with premium quality and craftsmanship. Born into a family of woodworkers in Brazil, Hilton’s passion for woodworking ignited at an early age as he biked to local mills, captivated by the artistry of the craft. This deep-rooted passion eventually led him to the United States, where he transformed his dream into reality, establishing Balarini Floors as a trusted name in the flooring industry.

But Hilton’s journey is about more than just wood and craftsmanship. In this conversation, he opens up about how his heritage shaped his entrepreneurial mindset and instilled values of dedication, precision, and attention to detail. He also shares his love for fast cars, Formula 1 racing, and cigars, offering insight into how he balances his business ambitions with his personal passions.

Tune in to hear how Hilton’s grit, love for craftsmanship, and a bit of personal flair have propelled him to success in a competitive industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about entrepreneurship, business, and the pursuit of excellence.

In this episode we explore leadership, growth, and resilience with Bryan Townsend, a high school principal with 15 years of experience. Bryan shares how data-driven decisions, purposeful alignment, and a growth mindset have fueled his success. He also reflects on the wisdom behind two powerful quotes: "The habits you form make you better" and "Having a calm mind is a blessing in life." Tune in for a discussion that will leave you inspired to lead with intention and embrace life’s challenges with grace.

What happens when an Argentinian boy, raised on homemade pasta and bold flavors, turns his passion into a thriving career? With his Dinner for Eight experience, he transforms meals into unforgettable journeys. Tune in as we dive into Chef Carlos Crusco story, his passion for food, and how he brings people together through cuisine!