REAL Mentors Podcast

"Every two minutes, another child enters foster care with nothing but a trash bag."In this eye-opening episode of the Real Mentors Podcast, Sean Martin sits down with Rob Scheer, a man who knows this heartbreaking reality all too well. Rob was one of those children, forced to carry his belongings in a trash bag, shuffled in and out of strangers' homes, and left to navigate a broken system. At 18, he found himself homeless with no support system, but Rob didn’t let this define him.Instead, he turned his pain into purpose, founding Comfort Cases, an organization that provides backpacks filled with essentials for children entering foster care.
Rob's mission is to ensure no child ever feels disposable.
In this powerful episode, Rob opens up about his life in foster care, his journey to overcoming homelessness, and how he turned his personal struggles into a platform for change. He’s now helping thousands of foster children find hope and dignity, one backpack at a time.
You’ll learn:•⁠ ⁠The shocking truth about the foster care system and how it continues to fail kids today•⁠ ⁠Rob’s inspiring journey from foster care to founding Comfort Cases•⁠ ⁠How Comfort Cases is bringing dignity and hope to children who need it most•⁠ ⁠The importance of empathy and why every child deserves to feel seen and loved
This episode is for anyone who’s passionate about social justice, foster care reform, or making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children. If you’re looking for a story of resilience and how one person can create lasting change, this is a must-watch.
🔗 Connect with our guest:Rob Scheer: https://www.instagram.com/rob_scheer/Comfort Cases: https://www.instagram.com/comfortcases/ | https://comfortcases.org/
Follow REAL Mentors Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/realmentorspodcast/Host: https://www.instagram.com/seanmartinmotiv8/ | https://www.instagram.com/theseanmartin/
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Keywords and tags:foster care, Comfort Cases, Rob Scheer, foster care reform, foster children support, homeless foster youth, children in foster care, foster care system, dignity for foster children, foster youth homelessness, child welfare, Real Mentors Podcast, Sean Martin, foster care awareness, nonprofit for foster care, changing foster care, supporting foster children, how to help foster kids, foster care issues, Comfort Cases nonprofit, Rob Scheer Ellen Show, Rob Scheer The Today Show, Rob Scheer NBC Nightly News, Rob Scheer CNN Heroes, #FosterCare, #ComfortCases, #RobScheer, #FosterCareReform, #FosterYouth, #RealMentorsPodcast, #SeanMartin, #FosterChildren, #NonprofitImpact, #EllenShow, #TheTodayShow, #NBCNightlyNews, #CNNHeroes

Clarisa Alayeto returns to discuss a hot-button issue impacting the Bronx and East Harlem: the migrant shelter crisis.Clarisa dives deep into the lack of communication, transparency, and community involvement in the decision-making process around this new shelter proposal. She addresses the frustrations of the Bronx community, who have been left in the dark about the decision, and stresses the need for engagement and transparency in local governance.What you'll learn in this episode:- Why the migrant shelter plan is creating division in the Bronx.- The importance of community involvement in decision-making.- How the Bronx community has been impacted by lack of resources, and what can be done to change it.- Clarisa’s vision for a Bronx-led leadership that prioritizes the people’s voice.Clarisa is here to expose the truth about decisions being made without consulting the community and the need for real solutions for the people who call the Bronx home. She challenges the political system and offers a solution-driven approach to governance.🔗 Connect with our guest:Clarisa Alayeto: @clarisaforcouncilFollow us!@REALMentorsPodcastSean Martin: @seanmartinmotiv8 | @theseanmartin-----Keywords:Bronx migrant shelter, Bronx community engagement, Bronx political issues, migrant crisis Bronx, South Bronx shelter crisis, East Harlem migrant shelters, Bronx transparency in government, Bronx voter engagement, community decisions Bronx, Bronx resource allocation, Bronx public safety, Bronx community leadership, Bronx housing crisis, Bronx social issues, Bronx public health, Bronx infrastructure problems, Bronx election 2024, migrant shelter New York City, Bronx local politics, community-driven change Bronx, Bronx residents voice, Bronx community activism, Bronx political transparency, Bronx trust in government, Bronx civic engagement, Bronx migrant shelter controversy, Bronx community development, Bronx voter turnout, Bronx leadership accountability

We’re back with Jimmy Rodriguez, the mastermind behind some of New York City's most iconic restaurants. With over 40 years of experience in the hospitality world, Jimmy has built an empire, creating legendary spots like Jimmy's Bronx Café, Sofrito, and Don Coqui. He’s not just a restaurateur; he's a mentor who has helped others rise, build wealth, and make a lot of money along the way.In this episode, Jimmy shares his incredible journey and legendary stories featuring a who’s-who of celebrity icons. You’ll hear about hosting the likes of Bill Cosby, Khloé Kardashian, Michael Jordan, Diddy, JLo, and Stevie Wonder, as well as unforgettable moments with Prince, David Bowie, French Montana, Tito Puente, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and even the New York Yankees. 🎤👀 What will you discover in this episode?•⁠ ⁠How Jimmy helped others make money and build wealth through mentorship and guidance in the restaurant industry.•⁠ ⁠Iconic stories with celebrities like Bill Cosby, Khloé Kardashian, Michael Jordan, Stevie Wonder, Prince, David Bowie, Diddy, JLo, and more.•⁠ ⁠The rise and reinvention of Jimmy’s Bronx Café, Sofrito, Don Coqui, and other restaurant ventures.•⁠ ⁠The art of mentorship, entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for others to succeed.•⁠ ⁠Insights on leadership, resilience, and how to adapt in a changing world.
This episode is perfect for future entrepreneurs, restaurant owners, and anyone looking to learn from the best in the business. Expect real talk, business tips, and some unforgettable celebrity stories!
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What is the REAL Mentors Podcast?The REAL (Real Examples Altering Lives) Mentors Podcast brings you the wisdom of successful leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers who’ve turned their dreams into reality. Hosted by Sean Martin, this podcast gives you actionable advice, inspiring stories, and life-changing lessons from real people who’ve been through it all.
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About Our Guest, Jimmy Rodriguez:Jimmy Rodriguez is the legendary force behind some of New York City's most iconic restaurants, including Jimmy's Bronx Café, Sofrito, Don Coqui, and more. From hosting major celebrities like Bill Cosby, Michael Jordan, and Khloé Kardashian, to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, Jimmy's impact on the restaurant and hospitality world is undeniable. In this episode, Jimmy shares stories of reinvention, mentorship, and how he’s helped others make millions along the way.
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Keywords and Tags:Jimmy Rodriguez, REAL Mentors Podcast, Restaurant empire, NYC restaurant industry, Entrepreneurship mentorship, Bill Cosby, Khloé Kardashian, Michael Jordan, Stevie Wonder, Prince, David Bowie, French Montana, Tito Puente, Yankees, Eddie Caban, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Diddy, JLo, Mentorship in business, Legendary restaurant stories, Creating wealth in hospitality, Sofrito, Jimmy’s Bronx Café, Don Coqui, Restaurant business mentorship, New York City dining, Celebrity restaurant stories, Hospitality industry secrets, Entrepreneurial mentorship, Business tips, Celebrity encounters, NYC restaurants, Entrepreneur advice, Hospitality success stories, Business reinvention, Mentorship lessons, Leadership in hospitality, Building wealth through hospitality, Mentorship and success

In this episode, we sit down with Jimmy Rodriguez, the legendary figure behind Jimmy’s Bronx Cafe, Sofrito, Don Coqui, and other game-changing restaurants that reshaped New York's hospitality scene.If you’ve ever wondered about the real story behind Jimmy Rodriguez’s legendary empire and its massive success, you’re in for a treat.What will you discover in this episode?•⁠ ⁠The one mindset shift that set Jimmy’s success in motion, and how you can apply it to your own life.•⁠ ⁠The real story behind how his legendary restaurant started and almost didn’t happen.•⁠ ⁠Behind-the-scenes stories you won’t hear anywhere else—from dealing with celebrities to surviving literal business threats.
Meet your guest, Jimmy Rodriguez:Jimmy Rodriguez isn’t just the owner of iconic spots like Jimmy’s Bronx Cafe, Sofrito, and Don Coqui—he’s a visionary who saw opportunity where others saw only struggle. Raised in the Bronx, he went from hustling on the streets with his father to transforming the restaurant business into a cultural movement. He’s built an empire that spans four decades, faced endless obstacles, and shaped New York’s hospitality scene with a vision that goes beyond food—it’s all about creating experiences.
About the REAL Mentors Podcast: The REAL Mentors Podcast is all about bringing authentic stories, inspiring messages, and valuable lessons straight to you. Our mission is simple: alter lives with real examples and provide actionable advice to empower the next generation of leaders, creators, and visionaries. If you’re looking for real-talk and real impact, this is the place for you.
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🔗 Connect with our guest:Jimmy Rodriguez: https://www.instagram.com/jimmys_sofrito/ | https://www.instagram.com/jimmysbronxcafe/Sobro Garden: https://www.instagram.com/sobrogarden/ | https://sobrogarden.com/
Follow REAL Mentors Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/realmentorspodcast/Host: https://www.instagram.com/seanmartinmotiv8/ | https://www.instagram.com/theseanmartin/
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Tags/Key Terms:Jimmy Rodriguez, Jimmy’s Bronx Cafe, Sofrito Restaurant, Don Coqui, Real Mentors Podcast, Bronx restaurants, Restaurant business tips, Hospitality industry, Latin food restaurants, Bronx entrepreneur, Business mentorship, Overcoming adversity in business, Personal reinvention, Leadership in business, Mentorship advice, Entrepreneur podcast, NYC restaurant scene, Resilience in business, Bill Cosby restaurant story, JLo at Jimmy’s Bronx Cafe, Business tips from restaurant owners, How to build a brand, Restaurant empire creation, Business risk-taking, Creating a successful restaurant, Professional reinvention, Celebrity stories podcast, Bronx entrepreneurship, Food industry leadership, Consistency in business, Diddy, David Bowie, Mary J. Blige, Ricky Martin, Fat Joe, Tito Puente, Derek Jeter, Shaquille O'Neal, Prince, Jada Pinkett Smith, Stevie Wonder, Mark Anthony, Celia Cruz, Martha Stewart, Ivana Trump, Michael Jordan, Bernie Williams, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Bob Marley, Cardi B, A-Rod, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Nas, Selena Quintanilla, Ben Affleck, Leonardo DiCaprio, French Montana, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kanye West, Pitbull, Usher, Alicia Keys, Nicky Jam, Don Omar, Pitbull

The Bronx has been the subject of neglect for too long. It has long faced systemic challenges that many communities don’t fully understand: Poverty, lack of affordable housing, underfunded schools, violence, and a lack of job opportunities are just some of the struggles Bronx residents have to contend with every day. Despite these persistent issues, one undeniable truth remains, the Bronx cares, and the people here are fighting to bring about REAL change.In this inspiring episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, our host Sean Martin is joined by Clarisa Alayeto, a community advocate and leader from the Bronx, shares how she is empowering her neighborhood and making a lasting difference. With over 20 years of experience in youth development, public health, and community activism, Clarisa has been on the front lines of tackling gun violence, improving public health, and creating safe spaces for Bronx youth.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:•⁠ ⁠The ongoing struggles the Bronx faces: poverty, lack of resources, community violence, job scarcity, and why they continue to persist.•⁠ ⁠How Clarisa Alayeto’s initiatives like Mott Haven Runners of Color and Yo Thatz Peace are tackling violence and providing hope for the future.•⁠ ⁠Clarisa’s leadership approach, and why real change comes from local leaders who understand their community's struggles.•⁠ ⁠The importance of youth empowerment and how Clarisa’s work is creating safe spaces for young people to grow and thrive.•⁠ ⁠How grassroots efforts and community collaboration can bring about lasting change in neighborhoods that have been neglected for far too long.
This Episode is For:•⁠ ⁠Bronx residents who want to see their community thrive and are ready to take action for positive change.•⁠ ⁠Activists and community leaders looking for inspiration on how to make a real impact in underserved neighborhoods.•⁠ ⁠Anyone who believes in the power of community-driven leadership and is passionate about tackling violence, job insecurity, and injustice in local areas.•⁠ ⁠Those who want to understand the realities of life in the Bronx, and how the people here are fighting for a better future.
This episode will leave you inspired to make a difference in your own community, wherever you are, and prove that even the toughest challenges can be overcome when people come together to create lasting change.
Who is Clarisa Alayeto?Clarisa is the founder of Mott Haven Runners of Color, a grassroots initiative focused on improving health and wellness in the Bronx, and Yo Thatz Peace, a program designed to help end gun violence and support youth through mentorship and outreach. Through these efforts, Clarisa is helping create a stronger, safer Bronx—one step at a time.
🔗 Connect with our guest:Clarisa Alayeto: https://www.instagram.com/clarisaforcouncil/
Follow REAL Mentors Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/realmentorspodcast/Host: https://www.instagram.com/seanmartinmotiv8/ | https://www.instagram.com/theseanmartin/
-----Keywords:Bronx leadership, Bronx activism, gun violence prevention Bronx, affordable housing Bronx, youth development Bronx, Mott Haven, Yo Thatz Peace Bronx, Clarisa Alayeto, Bronx public health, Bronx community safety, South Bronx leadership, making a difference Bronx, Bronx social justice, Bronx community change, Bronx solutions, Bronx youth programs, Bronx violence prevention, East Harlem community, Bronx grassroots, youth empowerment Bronx, gun violence South Bronx, Bronx neighborhood programs, Bronx inequality, South Bronx youth initiatives, Bronx leadership programs, Bronx empowerment, Bronx social change, community activism East Harlem, rebuilding Bronx, Bronx resilience

Many of us wonder if the changes we long for are even possible. Joe Rivera experienced the heights of success at a young age, earning seven figures as a stockbroker on Wall Street. But despite his wealth, he was spiritually bankrupt and caught in a downward spiral of addiction. What happens when the very success we chase becomes the catalyst for our destruction?In this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, host Sean Martin sits down with Joe Rivera, a resilience coach, motivational speaker, and founder of Reforge Academy, as he shares his powerful journey from addiction to sobriety and redemption. Joe opens up about his life in the fast-paced financial world, how his addiction nearly destroyed him, and the pivotal moment that turned everything around. He reveals how he used his struggles to fuel his purpose and build a life that’s now dedicated to helping others overcome adversity and find their true path.But here’s the thing—Joe's journey also questions the glorification of Wall Street success and the idea of “hustle culture.” Is the pursuit of money truly worth sacrificing your health, happiness, and relationships? Joe challenges the conventional notion that you have to burn yourself out to succeed. His story might make you rethink the real cost of chasing wealth and success—something many entrepreneurs aren’t willing to talk about.💡 What you’ll gain from this episode:

• Joe’s personal story of overcoming substance abuse and rebuilding his life.
• How Joe went from making seven figures on Wall Street to starting his own business and achieving financial success.
• Lessons on resilience, the importance of developing a mindset that thrives in adversity, and how to use failure as a stepping stone to success.
• How Joe transformed his pain into purpose through coaching, motivational speaking, and building a successful business.
• Real, actionable advice on how to overcome addiction, break free from self-limiting beliefs, and achieve true success in both life and business.

🤔 Who is this podcast for?

• Anyone who has struggled with addiction or is seeking to overcome personal challenges in order to live a fulfilled life.
• Entrepreneurs or aspiring business owners looking for inspiration on how to build wealth and achieve success beyond the typical “get rich quick” mindset.
• People who want to learn the real secrets of financial success and how to become successful by focusing on personal growth, resilience, and creating a purpose-driven life.
• Anyone inspired by stories like Wolf of Wall Street or Jordan Belfort who wants to learn how to turn adversity into opportunity and get rich the right way.
• If you’ve ever felt like you were lost in the pursuit of success or wondering if change is even possible, Joe’s story will inspire you to believe that transformation is not only possible, but it’s your next step toward achieving wealth and living a successful life.

🌟 Who is Joe Rivera?Joe Rivera is a resilience coach, motivational speaker, and the founder of Reforge Academy, where he empowers individuals and entrepreneurs to overcome adversity, achieve financial success, and align their lives with purpose. Joe’s journey from hitting rock bottom with addiction to building a successful life in business and coaching has made him a leader in personal development. His mission is to help people create lasting transformation by overcoming their limitations, turning pain into purpose, and building a life of true fulfillment.🔗 Connect with guest Joe Rivera on Instagram | Website | Reforge Academy👤 Follow REAL...

Most of us go through life wondering if the changes we seek are even possible. Bob Stricoff knew from an early age he wanted to be in public service, but his journey through 21 years in politics to his current role in nonprofit leadership proves that sometimes, the path to making a difference isn't as straightforward as it seems.In this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, host Sean Martin sits down with Robert Stricoff, the Chief External Affairs Officer at EAC Network, as he shares his incredible journey from being a political leader to shifting his focus toward nonprofit work. Bob opens up about the challenges he faced in politics, including being "bullied out of his job", and how his experience led him to make an even bigger impact through EAC Network, an organization dedicated to creating lasting change for 65,000 people annually across Long Island and New York City.What you’ll gain from this episode:•⁠ ⁠How Bob’s early passion for politics shaped his life’s mission.•⁠ ⁠The powerful lessons learned from being a political leader for over two decades.•⁠ ⁠Insights into why Bob made the bold shift from politics to nonprofit work.•⁠ ⁠A closer look at EAC Network’s mission to create lasting impact, not just provide temporary solutions.•⁠ ⁠Real, actionable advice on creating change in your own life by aligning your purpose with your actions.
Who is this podcast for?•⁠ ⁠Anyone passionate about serving their community or creating change.•⁠ ⁠Leaders looking for inspiration on how to make a lasting impact beyond their career.•⁠ ⁠People interested in hearing about a career shift and the challenges and growth that come with it.•⁠ ⁠Nonprofit professionals or those looking to get involved in social good and public service.•⁠ ⁠If you’ve ever wondered how one person can make a real difference, Bob’s story will remind you that sometimes the most impactful shifts happen when you least expect them.
🌟 Who is Bob Stricoff?Bob Stricoff is the Chief External Affairs Officer at EAC Network, an organization helping thousands of people each year. With over 21 years in politics and 14 years leading within his party, Bob’s expertise in public service and community change has reshaped the way nonprofits can address social issues. His journey from political leadership to nonprofit service shows how purpose-driven leadership can transform lives.
Connect with our guest:🔗 Bob Stricoff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertstricoff/ | https://www.instagram.com/robert_stricoff/EAC Network: https://eac-network.org/ | https://www.instagram.com/eacnet/
Follow REAL Mentors Podcast:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmentorspodcast/🎧 Host: https://www.instagram.com/seanmartinmotiv8/ | https://www.instagram.com/theseanmartin/
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Tags:#REALMentorsPodcast #PublicService #NonprofitLeadership #MakingADifference #Leadership #PoliticalJourney #SocialImpact #CommunityService #ChangeMakers #EACNetwork #SeanMartin #REALMentorsPodcast #Mentorship #PurposeDriven #SocialGood #NonprofitWork #CareerGrowth #CareerShift #Inspiration #LeadershipLessons #CreateChange #TransformativeLeadership #PublicServiceJourney #PoliticalLeadership #PurposeDrivenLeadership #LastingImpact #LeadershipDevelopment

Most of us go through life repeating patterns, feeling stuck, and wondering why real change feels out of reach. The truth is, we’re never taught the full truth about growth and healing—or maybe we’ve heard it, but our minds can’t process it in a way that truly sets us free.In this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, host Sean Martin sits down with Alison Lager, a 30-year mental health expert who has helped countless people break free from emotional patterns and limiting beliefs. Alison brings clarity to why so many of us feel stuck, revealing the powerful science behind personal transformation and sharing the practical tools needed to create real change.What you’ll gain from this episode:- A deeper understanding of why we get stuck in patterns and how to break free.- The science behind mindset shifts and reprogramming your beliefs.- Insights into why traditional approaches to healing often fall short—and what truly works.- Strategies to turn pain and challenges into opportunities for growth.- A renewed sense of hope and actionable steps to transform your life.Who is this podcast for?- Anyone feeling stuck or repeating the same patterns.- People searching for deeper meaning and clarity in their personal growth journey.- Those who feel like traditional therapy isn’t giving them the breakthrough they need.- Listeners ready to challenge their mindset and take control of their lives.- Entrepreneurs, leaders, and go-getters looking to unlock their full potential.If you’ve ever felt like real change was impossible, this episode is your wake-up call.🌟 Who is Alison Lager?Alison Lager is a powerhouse in the mental health space with over 30 years of experience transforming lives. Alison isn’t just a therapist—she’s a disruptor, a guide, and someone who knows how to break down the invisible barriers keeping people from becoming their best selves. Her no-nonsense approach to mental health, combined with deep compassion and scientific insight, has made her a sought-after voice in the world of personal growth and healing.Connect with our guest:🔗 Alison Lager

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisonanswers/
• Lager Counseling Services: https://www.instagram.com/lagercounseling/
• Website: https://www.lagercounseling.com/

Follow REAL Mentors Podcast:📸 Instagram: @realmentorspodcast🎧 Host: @seanmartinmotiv8------Tags:#GrowthAndHealing #MentalHealthExpert #BreakingPatterns #PersonalDevelopment #EmotionalHealing #MindsetTransformation #OvercomingTrauma #SelfImprovement #MentalHealthAwareness #ResilienceAndGrowth #AlisonLager #SeanMartin #REALMentorsPodcast #LagerCounselingServices #HowToGetUnstuck #WhyAmIStuckInLife #ReprogramYourMind #OvercomeSelfDoubt #EmotionalMastery #MentalHealthTools #SelfGrowthJourney #HealingFromWithin #UnlockYourPotential #BreakingNegativeCycles #TherapyAndGrowth #MindsetReset #PodcastEpisode2024 #MentalHealthJourney #PodcastForPersonalGrowth #InspirationalPodcast #LifeChangingPodcast #MentalHealth #GrowthMindset #PodcastEpisode #HealingJourney #TransformationTuesday #Inspiration #PodcastCommunity #LifeLessons #SelfHealing

If you’ve ever doubted yourself or wondered how to turn your struggles into strengths, this episode is for you. It’s packed with powerful lessons, actionable advice, and raw honesty that will leave you ready to take action.On this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, we bring you the incredible story of Samantha “Sam Law” Lawson, a mother, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader who turned obstacles into opportunities. At just 16, Sam faced challenges that could have defined her, but instead, she used them to fuel her journey to success. From launching a nonprofit with only $** to becoming a celebrated community leader, Sam’s story will inspire you to push through whatever’s holding you back.What You’ll Learn:✅ Starting from zero: How Sam launched a nonprofit with just $** and built it into a thriving organization.✅ The truth about failure: Why failing forward is the key to discovering who you really are.✅ Building a legacy through resilience: How Sam overcame societal shame and personal struggles to lead with purpose.✅ Lessons for aspiring leaders: The biggest mistakes to avoid when building nonprofits and organizations.✅ Faith and perseverance: How trusting the process and staying grounded can help you overcome any obstacle.🎧 This episode is for you if:•⁠ ⁠You feel stuck or held back by your current circumstances.•⁠ ⁠You want to start something impactful but don’t know where to begin.•⁠ ⁠You’re looking for inspiration to turn your struggles into strengths.•⁠ ⁠You believe in the power of faith, resilience, and leadership.•⁠ ⁠You’re ready to learn from someone who’s been there and made it happen.🌟 Who is Samantha “Sam Law” Lawson?Samantha “Sam Law” Lawson is the founder of YHP Cares and Yung Hip Professionals Inc., organizations focused on healthcare advocacy and community empowerment. From her journey as a teen mom to receiving prestigious awards like Long Island’s 40 Under 40 and recognition from Forbes BLK, Sam’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, leadership, and building a life of purpose.As the host of "The That's Sam Law Show," Sam amplifies voices from younger generations and their champions. A member of Forbes BLK and the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC Inc.), a TEDx speaker, former Chair of DEI at Melville Chamber of Commerce, published model, and marketing professional. Her education includes a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from LIU CW Post and a Bachelor of Art in psychology from SUNY Old Westbury.Sam's achievements include: Schneps Media "2024 Power Women Long Island", Long Island Business News' 2024 "40 under 40" award, the 2024 Entrepreneur Award from NANBPWC Inc., Bridges Ministries’ “Catalyst for Change” award and Suffolk County's 15th District "Rising Star Award" in 2020. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and health care equity, Sam remains dedicated to building an equitable future for Long Island.Connect with our guest:🔗 Samantha “Sam Law” LawsonInstagram/TikTok: @thats_samlawWebsite: https://www.thatssamlaw.com/YHP Cares: https://www.yhpcares.com/Follow REAL Mentors Podcast:📸 Instagram: @realmentorspodcast🎧 Host: @seanmartinmotiv8

What’s stopping you from chasing your dreams? Fear? Doubt? In this episode, we prove that where you come from doesn’t define where you’re going. On this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, we feature Chef Jose DeJesus, also known as the Trill Cooker, a Bronx native who went from washing dishes to competing on Hell’s Kitchen and creating a culinary empire. Chef Jose shares how he turned his passion for food into a career that’s breaking barriers and changing the game in the world of fine dining. What You’ll Learn: ✅ How to turn your passion into a career: Chef Jose shares how he followed his love for food despite the odds. ✅ Overcoming cultural expectations: Learn how Chef Jose navigated family and societal pressures to stay true to himself. ✅ Insider secrets from Hell’s Kitchen: Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in a high-pressure environment. ✅ The art of standing out: Discover how to use your unique background to create opportunities in competitive industries. ✅ Lessons on resilience and reinvention: Hear how Chef Jose adapted and thrived through life’s toughest challenges. 🎧 This episode is for you if you’re:

• Need inspiration to turn your passion into a profession.
• Are curious about what it takes to thrive in a high-pressure environment.
• Feel like your circumstances are holding you back.
• Interested in learning how to turn struggles into strengths.
• Ready to hear actionable advice from a self-made success story.

🌟 Who is Chef Jose DeJesus? Chef Jose, aka Trill Cooker, is a Bronx-born culinary innovator, competed on Gordon Ramsay's Hell’s Kitchen Season 18, Beat Bobby Flay, and served A-list clients including Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez. His unique ability to blend cultural heritage with fine dining has made him a rising star in the culinary world and an inspiration for anyone pursuing their passion. ----- Connect with our guest: 👨🏻‍🍳 Chef Jose DeJesus (Trill Cooker)IG: @cheftrill.cooker Book Chef Trill: https://oneelevencorp.com/ 👤 Follow REAL Mentors Podcast Instagram: @realmentorspodcastHost: @seanmartinmotiv8 ----- Tags: Hell’s Kitchen, Chef Jose DeJesus, Trill Cooker, Bronx chef, fine dining, pop-up restaurants, culinary innovation, Michelin-level dining, cooking competition, food entrepreneur, resilience, breaking barriers, Bronx pride, culinary artistry, professional chef, creative cooking, food stories, cultural heritage in cooking, REAL Mentors Podcast, Gordon Ramsay, Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, Beat Bobby Flay, kitchen secrets, food culture, inspiring chefs, culinary mentorship, chef success stories