J-40 PODCAST

Michael Scott Bogdonoff, professionally known as Trackstarr, joins the J-40 Podcast to discuss his lifelong passion for music, production, and visual storytelling. With over 17 years of experience producing content for major companies including Fox, Peloton, JP Morgan, and Roku TV, Mike shares his creative journey, his approach to audio and video production, and the inspiration behind his 2026 rel...

A legendary voice with over 25 years of experience, and a friendship spanning more than two decades. In this conversation, I reconnect with my longtime friend DJ Phil T, whose unmistakable voice became synonymous with one of New York City's premier gentlemen's clubs, the Penthouse Executive Club. A respected DJ, voice-over artist, music producer, and former music critic for DJ Times magazine, Phil...

What happens when a St. Louis native moves to New York City and becomes one of its most recognizable content creators? In this episode, I sit down with Kenny Bollwerk, a.k.a. Rat Daddy, to talk about how Rat Tok and NYC Rat Tours came to life. Kenny shares how it all started, what inspired the tours, and how an unexpected idea evolved into a one-of-a-kind brand. Don't miss this fascinating convers...

Michael Tene Degallon returns for a thought provoking conversation on the spectacle that was Freedom 250 and the iconic visual moments that captured everyone's attention. As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, we also explore separation, divorce, closing old chapters, and embracing new beginnings. A thoughtful discussion on change, perspective, and moving forward.

The crew is back for another episode filled with New York energy, sports talk, and current events. We discuss the Knicks' historic championship victory and what it means to fans across the city after decades of waiting. From there, the conversation expands into recent headlines and a variety of topics shaping the current landscape. Along for the conversation are Ray-Bandz, Skooba Steve, and Pete t...

Ray-Bandz returns to the J-40 Podcast for a laid back catch up conversation. We share our thoughts and perspectives on today's world in an open and unfiltered discussion, including where we believe society may be headed.

From Harlem to the forefront of fashion, Guy Wood sits down with the J-40 PODCAST to talk about the journey behind the vision. We dive into the mindset, creativity, experiences, and moments that shaped his rise as a respected name in fashion and culture. Guy opens up about staying authentic, building a brand with purpose, and what it takes to stand out in an industry driven by trends and pressure....

After two years of chasing her dreams in New York City, fashion model Sydney Do sits down with the J-40 PODCAST for an honest conversation about growth, pressure, sacrifice, and everything the city has taught her along the way. From runway shows and working alongside high-level designers to the cultural differences between the East and West Coast, Sydney reflects on the experiences that helped sha...

Rachel Yang joins the J-40 Podcast to break down how she balances career, motherhood, and her passion for grappling with discipline and focus. She shares what drives her, how training shapes her mindset, and how she stays consistent across every role she carries. From her journey across cultures to her life on the mat, this episode highlights resilience, structure, and the commitment it takes to k...

On this episode, I sit down with William Morales, a k a Willie. who was my supervisor for nearlv a decade. We revisit an era that no longer exists. breaking down what made it special, how everything moved behind the scenes, and why it all worked the way it did. This isn't just about a place, it's about the people, the loyalty, and the camaraderie that defined it A real look into a time that can't...

The J-40 Podcast welcomes professor and student Jarbem Pacheco and newly awarded purple belt George Kondratas. From building a jiu livre community in NYC to pushing limits through bodybuilding, endurance racing, and elite competition, both bring powerful perspectives to the table. This episode delivers a positive, high-level conversation on discipline, growth, and the mindset required to evolve, l...

In this powerful return episode, we sit down with Angie Andrade, the head and face of Total Body Fit NYC, as she shares her journey recovering from Breast Implant Illness and the transformation of her health. We break down the risks, hidden dangers, symptoms, and red flags many overlook. Angie also highlights the critical role of proper scar tissue removal and offers guidance for those with limite...

Comic book artist and illustrator John Kotsis, aka Psycho, joins the J-40 Podcast to discuss the long awaited release of his new comic, Samurai Ninja Rabbits Issue #1. We dive into the creative process, the journey behind its development, and the excitement surrounding the project as it finally comes to life.

In this episode, we sit down with Michelin starred chef Christopher Cipollone, the force behind Brooklyn’s acclaimed Francie. Beyond the accolades, he reveals the humility, empathy, and discipline that shape his approach to food and life. From discovering his calling at 14 to earning Michelin and New York Times recognition, this conversation explores mastery, culture, pressure, and staying grounde...

YouTube vlogger Tommy Kotsis joins the J-40 Podcast as he begins season 3 of his vlog series. Tommy reflects on his college years, documenting the ups and downs of growing up with friends, discovering love, and looking ahead to adulthood, while balancing his passion for video production and the future he’s building.

Vincent Lopez joins the J-40 Podcast to share the journey that took him from Sunnyside, Queens, through Wall Street, into commercial real estate, and ultimately to the creation of Lavazoo, his latest vision for unlocking off-market real estate access. A proud father of three and devoted husband, Vincent opens up about risk, reinvention, and building legacy from the ground up.

Brendan Noer, AKA Starvin B, a Sunnyside / Woodside Queens emcee known for his golden-era-inspired flow and deep lyrical style, joins the J-40 Podcast as we dive into how he got started in music, what shaped him as an artist, and how he became the rapper he is today. This is real talk straight from the heart of Queens.

Solideen Papa Large Merchant joins the J-40 Podcast to discuss the 90s New York hip-hop sound making a real comeback in the outgoing year of 2025. We talk fresh music from OG legends, the culture, the craft, and why keeping hip-hop’s true essence alive still matters today.

In this episode of the J-40 Podcast, a rare reunion brings together boxing coach Wacho Hago and dog trainer and breeder Dominic Donavan after more than a decade apart. Two different paths, one shared mindset built on discipline, patience, and purpose. From the ring to the kennel, this conversation explores the parallels between their crafts and the principles that shape their lives. A real and gro...

In this solo episode of the J-40 Podcast, I break down the quiet shift happening around us. The loss of meaning, the fading spirit of the holidays, and the growing numbness in a world dominated by screens. This is a raw and honest reflection on how routine, distraction, and technology are pulling us away from what makes us human. A wake up call to reconnect, reset, and take back control before we...

Nick Biello joins the J-40 Podcast to trace his evolution from young performer to internationally respected jazz artist. We dive into the grind, the passion, and the mindset behind his music, teaching, and global collaborations. An inspiring look at a life shaped by music.

In this episode of the J-40 Podcast, I sit down with Michael Tene Degallon for a real conversation about life after an 18 year marriage. We dive into separation, fatherhood, and the process of rebuilding while finding balance through personal transformation. Along the way, we touch on current events and share honest moments that reflect growth, change, and the realities of starting over.

From her first Vogue runway to her poetry book Here Lies My Heart, Sydney Do opens up on modeling, family, and the mindset that fuels her rise.

Kundalini energy, psilocybin insight, and a mother's awakening. Rezarta Tabaku shares how her journey reshaped her view of life, love, and her son's unique autistic expression.

In this episode of the J-40 Podcast, J Scott da illest takes us deep into the essence of hip hop as more than music, but a lifestyle, a voice, and a reflection of real life. From raw lyricism to lived experience, we explore how the culture continues to shape identity, truth, and perspective. A grounded conversation on authenticity, growth, and the connection between music and everyday life.