The Open Exchange with Paul Martinez

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Maxi Blanco’s story is unforgettable — from facing a potential prison sentence to receiving a full pardon and rebuilding his life from the ground up.

He shares the night everything changed — when a split-second decision nearly cost him everything — and the path that led him toward redemption, peace, and purpose.

The conversation goes deep into anger, forgiveness, and how he turned a life of chaos into one of discipline and purpose. 

If you’ve ever questioned whether people can truly change — this...

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Fhil Brown — aka Famous Fhil — has lived many lives: car salesman, artist, podcaster, and father. In this episode, Paul Martinez sits down with him to unpack how he went from chasing quick money through sports cards to earning $5,400 in one month from a single remix and 20 million YouTube streams.

They talk about detaching from the outcome, staying consistent as a creator, fatherhood, mindset, and why believing in yourself matters more than validation. They also reveal how ChatGPT pla...

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What if everything you thought about solar was wrong? In this episode, Paul Martinez sits down with David Mansulla, founder of SunTastic Solutions, to break down the myths, truths, and hidden realities behind the solar industry. From government tax credits and Eversource billing to long-term savings, aesthetics, and misconceptions — this conversation helps homeowners finally understand whether solar really saves money or just sounds good on paper.

David also shares his Air Force background, lessons on teamwork and discipline, and how those experiences shaped his appr...

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Tim Allen joins me to discuss the upcoming Men's Faith and Motivation Conference, focusing on the importance of faith, identity, and mental health for men. He shares personal experiences and insights on family dynamics, the challenges men face in expressing their struggles, and the need for community and support. The discussion emphasizes the significance of faith in overcoming life's challenges and encourages men to engage with their faith and each other.

Takeaways

The conference aims to address identity in Christ for men.

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Troy Brunson went from posting a dog video that hit 19 million views to building a full-time photography business. In this unfiltered conversation, Paul Martinez and Troy talk about turning creativity into a career, battling imposter syndrome, going viral, and how AI fits into the artist’s journey. If you’ve ever thought about going all-in on your passion, this episode will push you forward.

👇 Comment your biggest creative struggle & subscribe for more weekly episodes!

Chapters:

0:00 – Intro: Meeting Troy Brunson
1:00 – From Retail t...

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Contractor and business owner Collin Potter returns to share his perspective on scaling a remodeling business, helping homeowners avoid costly mistakes, and how his “Always Forward” philosophy shapes both work and life.

In this conversation, we cover:

Why scaling a business at the right pace matters

The biggest home maintenance issues homeowners overlook

How to navigate insurance claims without losing money

The rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and what they mean for families

Lesson...

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What happens when you chase money, status, and validation — and realize none of it brings true happiness?

In this episode of The Open Exchange, I sit down with Christian Coronado, who left Peru with nothing and built his own creative agency in the U.S. He opens up about the red pill mindset, losing himself in ego, and rediscovering faith, gratitude, and what really matters.

This conversation covers:

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I’m attempting to build a $1,000,000 business in 12 months—from $0—and I’m documenting every step: wins, losses, and the boring middle most people never show.

What to expect each week:

Conversations with business owners to find real problems (time, visibility, sales, confidence)

Small experiments to solve them (offers, content systems, sales plays)

Honest results + lessons you can copy

Chapters:
00:00 I’m building $1M in 12 months (from $0)
00:27 Learning in public (yes, using AI/tools)
01:16 Wh...

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Imagine walking away from a career in law enforcement, undercover drug work, and FBI task force investigations to start over in real estate. In this episode, I sit down with retired Detective Jay Calouro, who shares how one ultimatum changed his life. From chasing criminals to building his own brokerage, Jay’s story is about risk, resilience, and betting on yourself.

Chapters
00:00 Cold Open – “Promotion or Else”
00:20 Introduction to Jay Calouro
02:00 Why Law Enforcement?
05:00 Working Narcotics & FBI Task Force
07:00 The Ultima...

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Drew Rossi went from closing out a college championship game to chasing his dream in independent baseball, to becoming the bullpen catcher for the Washington Nationals. In this conversation, Drew opens up about the mindset that kept him going through setbacks, the lessons baseball teaches about life, and how he found his place in the big leagues without ever stepping into the batter’s box as a player.

We talk about resilience, growth, learning to value the process over the outcome, and finding purpose beyo...

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Episode 75 of The Open Exchange with Paul Martinez is more than a milestone — it’s a turning point in my life. I share how podcasting reignited my faith in Christ, the unexpected role a conversation (and even AI) played in that journey, and why Isaiah 53 became a cornerstone for my belief.

This is a raw reflection on doubt, redemption, grace over works, and the lessons learned from 75 episodes. Whether you’re a podcaster, a seeker, or someone wrestling with faith, this episode offers real talk, sc...

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Former athlete turned pastor Sam Gonzalez unpacks what it really means to surrender your life to God. From growing up in a broken household to placing identity in sports, Sam shares how faith became real — not just a routine.

✝️ Topics We Cover:

Finding identity beyond sports and statistics

The difference between belief and surrender

Healing father wounds through Christ

Wrestling with God (Genesis 32)

What 1 Corinthians 9 says about discipline and faith

Being forgiven even whe...

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In this episode, filmmaker and business owner Brian Kuenn joins Paul Martinez for an open exchange about faith, fatherhood, and finding purpose in chaos. From Best Buy coworkers to family men and creators, the two reconnect to explore questions many men are silently asking:

Why do we drift from faith?
Can success and spirituality coexist?
How do we lead our families when we feel lost ourselves?

Brian shares how he balances business, belief, and burnout as a new father while ru...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange with Paul Martinez, Tyler Gonzales returns to share the raw truth behind his transformation from a struggling young business owner to a community leader balancing faith, family, sobriety, and success.

We dive deep into Tyler's personal manifesto — a self-written guide that helps him stay grounded through the chaos of fatherhood, business ownership, and past trauma. Tyler opens up about facing alcohol abuse, burnout, and criticism, while building TMG Disaster Services into one of the most trusted names in e...

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Men are silently battling pain—and this episode unpacks why that has to change.

Jordan Smith "Smitty", host of Daily Dimensions Podcast and a mental health advocate, shares his personal story of father wounds, faith, and forgiveness. We talk about trauma, therapy, grief, the impact of mentors, and his mission to get 500 men into therapy by 2030.

🎧 In this raw and emotional conversation, we explore:
– Growing up without a father
– How unresolved trauma shapes adulthood
– Why therapy isn’t enough without action<...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul Martinez sits down with Kevin Power, a veteran home inspector and founder of Sunrise Home Inspections, to unpack the overlooked truths behind real estate purchases.

With over 16 years of experience, Kevin has seen it all—from rushed decisions and waived inspections to costly oversights that haunt homeowners for years. Together, they discuss:

The emotional trap buyers fall into

Why home inspections are essential in today’s housing market

What most people...

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In this episode, Paul  talks with professional bowler and father of three, Matt Brockett, about the hidden trauma that shaped his youth — and the sport that saved his life.

Matt shares how childhood abuse led him to bowling as a way to escape, and how years later, fatherhood, therapy, and faith helped him find healing. From competing in PBA events to building his coaching brand, Matt's story is one of resilience, accountability, and growth.

Topics covered:

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Kevin Mace, known as the "Mortgage Magician," sits down with Paul to reflect on 21+ years in the mortgage industry. From surviving the 2008 housing crash to uncovering an undiagnosed gluten allergy and ADHD diagnosis, Kevin opens up about the highs, lows, and life lessons that reshaped his personal and professional journey. This conversation is real, relatable, and packed with insight about resilience, people-first business, and personal reinvention.

🎧 Topics:

Subprime crash & mortgage ethics

ADHD and mental health in business

Life pivot...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Realtor, Broker, and Content Creator Rob Wallace joins the show to talk about the unseen struggles behind success. From a childhood spent moving internationally to facing devastating personal loss, Rob shares how discipline, faith, and self-growth reshaped his life. The conversation touches on building mental toughness, overcoming distractions, redefining success, and navigating today's noisy world with purpose. This raw and open discussion offers a refreshing look at what it truly means to grow, persevere, and lead with intention.

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What does it take to rebuild a six-figure real estate business from scratch every few years? Meet Olivia Evans—a dynamic military spouse, mom, and top-producing REALTOR® who’s mastered the art of reinvention. From being broke and asking her mom for diaper money, to closing three deals her first month in business, Olivia shares how she’s grown her brand in new markets without cold calls or paid leads.

In this episode, Olivia opens up about:

Starting in real estate at 17 in Englan...

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In this episode I sit down with Tara Crossley — a realtor, coach, and keynote speaker — whose journey from financial dependence and personal trauma to professional independence will leave you inspired.

Tara opens up about:

Surviving a traumatic upbringing and breaking generational cycles

Becoming financially literate after a crisis changed her life

Starting her first job at 14 to escape control

How real estate helped her reclaim her identity

Using coaching and keynote speaking to empower others...

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In this deep and raw conversation, Paul Martinez sits down with entrepreneur and breath work expert Johnny Longinidis to unpack the journey from emotional suppression and near-suicide to purpose, healing, and spiritual alignment.

Johnny shares his Greek-American upbringing, his entrepreneurial grind, and the turning point that led him to breath work, yoga, and a new definition of success. They discuss how men mask pain, how to build emotional intelligence, and how breath and stillness can guide us back to purpose.

🎙️ Follow Me:
Tik...

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Growth doesn’t happen without a fight—and sometimes the battle is inside.

In this episode, CJ Satti returns for a raw, vulnerable conversation about the mental, emotional, and spiritual struggles men carry every day. We talk about what happens when the pressure to provide, lead, and stay strong turns into silence, guilt, or emotional exhaustion.

CJ shares his personal transformation—from quitting alcohol to deepening his faith—and how making space for emotions became the fuel for real growth. We reflect on the com...

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🎙️ The Open Exchange: Best of Year One! 

As I wrap up an incredible first year of The Open Exchange, I am bringing you the most powerful, thought-provoking, and entertaining moments from the diverse lineup of guests. This episode features standout clips from some of the best conversations.

🔥 Lauren Bergeron – Discusses fitness, overcoming social media distractions, and building sustainable health habits.
🔥 Dom Williams – A passionate debate on WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns, and the evolving landscape...

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In this episode, Paul sits down with Frank Colmenares, founder and owner of ReelEMedia and artist of the new album Beautiful Trama 2. Frank shares his journey from working in a middle school to running a full-time media company, all while staying true to his musical roots and passion for storytelling.

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more!

📲 Follow Frank Colmenares & ReelEMedia:
🎵 Stream Beautiful Trama: https://music.apple.com/us/album/beautiful-trauma-2-the-ugly-in-the-healing/1800382379
📸 Instagram:  @iAmFrankColmenares @Reelemedia
🎥 ReelEMedia Website: https://www...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul sits down with Brandon Gidicson, an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and master networker. Brandon shares his journey from Sweden to New York to Connecticut, how he built a thriving networking event, and the mindset shifts that fuel his business growth.

We explore: Entrepreneurship & Scaling – Lessons from working in a fast-growing franchise & how to build a scalable business

Networking Hacks – How Brandon grew his professional network from scratch & filled events with 40+ attendees

Cold Exposu...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, I sit down with Kelly Lichtenberger, author of Prospect Like a Girl, to break down the fundamentals of sales, confidence, and emotional intelligence in a world increasingly driven by AI.

We discuss:

Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt in sales
Why emotional intelligence beats artificial intelligence in building relationships.

Kelly’s journey from door-to-door encyclopedia sales to industry-leading success.

How to handle rejection and sales slumps like a pro.

Why...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange,  Dorothy Satti, owner of Gateway Mortgage in Waterford, CT, joins the show to talk about her incredible 38-year journey in the mortgage industry. Dorothy shares her early struggles, the challenges of 2008’s housing crash, and how she navigated COVID-19 to grow her business by 25-30% in 2024.

We dive into the power of mindset, leadership, and the importance of personal development. D...

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Travis Beausoleil is the former head coach of Mitchell College Baseball, where he led the program from 2012 to 2023, amassing 306 wins and securing seven conference championships (2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2021, 2022, 2023). Under his leadership, Mitchell College consistently earned NCAA regional bids and developed a culture of accountability, discipline, and player development.

A former All-American player at Avery Point, Travis played in the Cape Cod League before transitioning into coaching. Originally pursuing a career in law enforcement, he shifted his focus to baseball, earning his master's degree while coaching at UConn, wh...

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In this episode, Paul sits down with Christos Provistalis, a hospitality expert, keynote speaker, and Disney alum, to explore the art of customer experience and human connection. Christos shares his journey from running a family pizzeria to leading at Disney, where he learned that the most successful businesses sell emotions, not just products. Tune in to hear practical tips on improving communication, self-awareness, and creating memorable customer experiences that resonate deeply. 

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Reconnection with Christos
02:41 - Who Is Christos Pro...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Maurice (Moe) Steele shares his powerful story of transformation, faith, and redemption. Growing up in a in the church, he was surrounded by faith but eventually drifted away, chasing success, status, and validation in ways that led him further from his purpose. As he built a name for himself in the music industry and his personal life, he found himself entangled in pride, destructive habits, and an identity that no longer aligned with the deeper calling he had ignored fo...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul sits down with Tim Allen—a devoted husband, father, and Christian artist—whose journey of transformation is nothing short of inspiring. Tim opens up about overcoming the darkest moments in his life, from battling depression and addiction to rediscovering his faith and purpose. They go into the challenges of breaking free from societal distractions, the spiritual tug-of-war we all face, and how Tim channels his experiences into impactful music and ministry.

This conversation isn’t just about fa...

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Isaac Goodwater joins the show for an entertaining conversation about friendship, music, and nostalgia. Together, we dive into stories from our Sprint days, laugh about hilarious moments from the past, and explore the powerful role music has played in shaping our lives.

From gospel and R&B to hip-hop and country, we rank our favorite genres, share our go-to tracks, and challenge each other in a fun playlist battle. Along the way, we reflect on growing up in the 90s and 2000s, why that er...

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Paul hosts Mike Mish, diving into the challenges of mental health, the importance of fatherhood, and the realities of addiction recovery. Mike shares his path to sobriety, how he overcame personal struggles, and what he’s learned from being a father. They touch on faith, values, and the evolving societal norms around masculinity and mental health.

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro: Mike’s Return to the Show
03:00 - Reflections on Fatherhood
09:00 - Social Norms and How They Shape Us
17:00 - Sobriety: A Life-C...

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In this episode I share my reflections on completing the first week of Dry January. After years of associating my Monday bowling nights with beer, I decided to break the cycle and confront the deeply rooted habits that had become second nature.

I dive into insights from Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit to explain the habit loop — cue, routine, and reward — and how I’m working to change my routine without sacrificing the reward of relaxation and enjoyment. 

This candid conversatio...

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In this episode of The Open Exchange,  Danny Garcia, the owner of "I Got You Next Barbershop" and a passionate advocate for fathers, entrepreneurs, and faith-based living. Danny’s story is one of transformation—shaped by challenges, deep faith, and commitment to his family and community.

Starting his career as a barber at just 16, Danny quickly realized that success wasn’t just about providing a great haircut—it was about creating a safe and welcoming environment for families, one where fathers and sons could connect, an...

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In this second episode, I share my personal history with alcohol, tracing its place in my life from my teenage years to now. This journey isn't just about cutting out alcohol; it's about testing my ability to stick to a commitment, rediscovering focus, and making intentional choices. I reflect on how routine drinking shaped my days and how I’m working to change that. Tune in to hear my thoughts, struggles, and the positive shifts I’ve already started to notice.

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This podcast episode dives into the deeply personal journey of tackling discipline, using Dry January as a lens for growth. Paul  opens up about his lifelong struggles with staying on track and achieving goals, using this challenge to prove that his mind can triumph over old habits. With reflections on past behaviors, hopes for a healthier future, and an invitation for listeners to join in, this episode isn’t just about giving up alcohol—it's about gaining control and redefining personal boundaries. 

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In this episode of The Open Exchange, Paul sits down with TJ Hepburn, a decorated wrestler, former MMA fighter, and accomplished gym owner, whose life story is as inspiring as it is raw. From becoming Connecticut's first wrestler to achieve 200 wins in high school to earning All-American status at the collegiate level, TJ’s journey is a testament to grit, resilience, and determination.

TJ opens up about the highs and lows of his wrestling and MMA careers, including the unforgettable moment he broke his coll...

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Mariam Mena shares her journey of self-discovery, from embracing a "red pill" moment in Texas to transforming her life through diet, mental resilience, and renewed faith. Mariam opens up about the challenges of cultural identity after immigrating from Egypt, developing a non-victim mindset influenced by motivational leaders, and the awakening that led her to question mainstream narratives—political, spiritual, and nutritional. We discuss controversial topics, societal changes, childhood nostalgia, and the spiritual battles we face in a world that often pushes extreme ideologies. From politics and the...