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,...

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 ne...

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 epi...

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 t...

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, a...

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...

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 d...

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...

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 i...

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 passio...

Whether you’re a young investor, a seasoned entrepreneur, or someone looking for inspiration to take that first step, this episode is packed with actionable insights and relatable stories. In this episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, we sit down with JD Mitra, a Bronx-born real estate investor, entrepreneur, and mentor with a story that inspires action. From navigating the challenges of growing up...

Gary Brown, former NFL player and Super Bowl champion with the Green Bay Packers, shares his incredible journey from Brentwood, New York, to the NFL, and how he found his true calling in community service after overcoming personal struggles. Key topics discussed: 🏈 Gary's path from community college to the NFL 💪 Lessons learned from NFL legends like Reggie White 🏆 Winning the Super Bowl with th...

What does it really take to go from rock bottom to financial freedom? This episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast peels back the curtain on one man's extraordinary journey from poverty to prosperity. Host Sean Martin brings together: self-made millionaire Jarek Tadla, his 13-year-old son Patrick Tadla, and successful entrepreneur Andrew Sallee. Together, they dive deep into the gritty realities of su...

On this powerful episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, where Real-life Examples Alter Lives, host Sean Martin sits down with Chrystina Casado, founder of Brunch at Zion's and a two-time cancer survivor. Chrystina shares her inspiring journey of turning personal struggles into a mission to nourish her community. Chrystina discusses: 🍳 How she discovered her calling as a chef 🌱 The importance of wh...

Welcome to the REAL Mentors Podcast, where Real-life Examples Alter Lives. In this powerful episode, host Sean Martin explores the transformative journey of Violeta Galagarza, a true embodiment of our mission. For 35 years, Violeta has been the heartbeat of East Harlem's KR3Ts (Keep Rising To The Top) dance company, proving that one person's dedication can reshape an entire community's destiny. Vi...

On this powerful episode of the REAL Mentors Podcast, where Real Life Examples Alter Lives, host Sean Martin sits down with Brad Butler, a Jersey City native turned motivational speaker, for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity and finding your purpose. Brad shares his remarkable story, including: 🔥 His journey from special education to corporate success 🎤 Discovering his calling...

Learn how to forge yourself into a real leader in today's challenging world. Whether you're struggling with your career, relationships, or personal growth, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you sharpen your EDGE and reclaim your power and purpose. Welcome to the REAL Mentors Podcast, where Real-Life Examples Alter Lives. In this groundbreaking first episode, Sean Martin, straight from...