The Open Exchange with Paul Martinez
The Open Exchange Podcast is a space for thought-provoking conversations where ideas, experiences, and perspectives come together. Hosted by Paul Martinez, each episode explores diverse topics with guests from all walks of life, offering fresh insights and meaningful discussions. From personal stories to impactful challenges, The Open Exchange invites listeners to think deeper, learn something new, and enjoy authentic conversations that go beyond the surface. Whether you’re here for inspiration, growth, or just a great conversation, this podcast is your open platform for discovery.
Can You Believe In God and Still Be Lost? | Samuel Gonzalez
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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...
Searching For God in a World Full of Distractions | Brian Kuenn
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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...
How I’m Healing While Building a Business | Tyler Gonzales
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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...
Men Hide This Pain For Years | Jordan Smith on Father Wounds, Faith & Mental Health
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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<...
Homebuyers in 2025: Don’t Make This Costly Mistake | Kevin Power
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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...
Matt Brockett | From Childhood Trauma to Fatherhood, Forgiveness, and Pro Bowling
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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:
Childhood trauma and survi...Kevin Mace | Mortgage Meltdown, Midlife Diagnosis & Making Peace With It All
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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...
Rob Wallace | Defining Purpose and The Entrepreneur Mindset
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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.
Olivia Evans | Building a Personal Brand That Sells
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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...
Tara Crossley | From Survivor Mode To Sales Success: Owning Your Story and Defining Purpose
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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...
Johnny Longinidis | Understanding Yourself and Redefining Success Through Stillness
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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...
CJ Satti | The Battle Within That Leads to Growth
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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...
Best of Your Platform | Open Exchange Part 1
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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...
Frank Colmenares | ReelEMedia & The Making of Beautiful Trauma 2
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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...
Brandon Gidicson | The Business of Building Relationships & Taking Risk
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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...
Kelly Lichtenberger | Prospect Like a Girl | Winning in Sales Using EI over AI
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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...
Dorothy Satti | Having a Positive Mindset, Staying Grounded & Growth
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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...
Travis Beausoleil | Building a Championship Mindset
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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...
Christos Provistalis | What Do You Sell? | Unpacking Human Emotions in Customer Service
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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...
Maurice Steele | Overcoming Darkness and Finding Christ
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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...
Tim Allen | The Intersection of Music, Ministry, and Personal Transformation
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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...
Isaac Goodwater | Friendship, Nostalgia, and Music
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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...
Mike Mish | Sobriety, Mental Health, and Fatherhood
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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...
Dry January | Week 1: Breaking The Habit Loop
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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...
Danny Garcia | The Silent War Men Face
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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...
Dry January | Day 2: My Relationship With Alcohol
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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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Dry January | Day 1: My Path to Being More Disciplined
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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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...TJ Hepburn | Wrestling, MMA, and Life Lessons
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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...
Mariam Mena | Red Pilled and Reborn: A Journey of Constant Evolution
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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...
Matias Rojas | Spiritual Transformation and Understanding God
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Paul engages with his childhood friend, Evangelist Jose Matias Rojas, to explore the intertwining paths of their baseball past and their spiritual journeys. The episode begins with nostalgic reminiscences about their time playing Little League, highlighting a pivotal moment in a game that metaphorically reflected life's unexpected turns. Jose shares his transition from aspiring to be a professional baseball player to embracing a life dedicated to faith, sparked by a moment of desperation that led to a profound spiritual encounter. They dive into discussions about the es...
Trump's Resounding Victory | Decoding the 2024 Presidential Election with David Cruz
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Paul and Dave dive deep into the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, where Donald Trump secured a surprising and decisive win over Kamala Harris.
Chris Larsen | Sports Cards Collecting, Investing, and Opening A Card Shop
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This exchange is with Chris Larsen, Owner of All Ball Sports Cards and More, explores his journey from being a child collector in the '90s, bonding with his father over card shows, to leaving the hobby during the "junk wax era" and rekindling his interest in 2018. This re-entry was spurred by personal life changes and his children's growing interest, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown when the hobby saw a resurgence. Chris discusses setting up his shop to fill a local void for card enthusiasts, detailing th...
Mike Doherty | Unlocking Financial Freedom Through Real Estate Investing
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In this episode, Paul interviews Mike Doherty, a real estate investor and co-host of the Sky's Limit podcast. They discuss Mike's journey from a W2 job to real estate investing, the importance of the BRRRR method, and strategies for successful investments. Mike shares insights on partnership dynamics, market trends, and the significance of building a strong team. He also emphasizes the importance of defining investment goals and offers advice for aspiring investors looking to enter the real estate market.
Youtube Channel: http://ww...
Tyler Gonzales | Resilience in Restoration: Business and Personal Rebuild
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Paul sits down with Tyler Gonzales, the owner of TMG Plumbing and Disaster Solutions. In this episode, Tyler shares his journey from a challenging upbringing with an absent father to building a thriving business that not only restores homes but also lives. Discover how personal experiences, from military service to overcoming personal battles, have shaped his approach to business and fatherhood. Tyler discusses the evolution of TMG, the importance of mentorship, the impact of fatherhood, and how he's pushing the boundaries in the restoration industry to of...
2024 World Series Reaction
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Reflections on the New York Yankees' disappointing performance in the 2024 World Series against the LA Dodgers. Paul expresses his frustration as a long-time fan, discussing key moments in the series, managerial decisions, and the overall state of the team. Paul emphasizes the need for accountability and changes within the organization while also acknowledging the emotional toll of being a dedicated fan. He concludes with a hopeful yet uncertain outlook for the future of the Yankees.
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Chris Aledia | Young, Ambitious, and Motivated
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In this episode of Your Platform Podcast, Paul sits down with 22-year-old mortgage professional Chris Aledia to explore the unique economic challenges facing Gen Z in today’s housing market. With a background in economics and a passion for financial literacy, Chris shares his journey from graduating college in a tough job market to thriving in the mortgage industry. He discusses the impact of consumer debt on homeownership, the importance of down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers, and how mentorship has shaped his early career. Chri...
Sit down with Erin McNamara and Amanda Boehm | The Real Estate Mom Moguls
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Paul hosts Amanda Boehm and Erin McNamara, the duo behind the ' Real Estate Mom Moguls' podcast. They dive into their journeys in real estate, the challenges of balancing motherhood and work, and the authenticity they bring to their podcasting. The discussion covers the current real estate market, the evolution of their podcast, and the importance of support systems in navigating the ups and downs of their careers. They share personal anecdotes, insights on market trends, and the realities of being working moms in a demanding ind...
Real Talk with Tim Macy
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In this episode of Your Platform Podcast, host Paul Martinez sits down with Tim Macy, a successful real estate entrepreneur and content creator. Tim shares his journey from serving in the Air Force and working odd jobs, including mowing lawns, to becoming a thriving real estate investor and influencer. He talks about the importance of visualizing success, the difference between daydreaming and manifesting, and how to build focused action toward your goals. Tim also dives into social media strategy, why consistency is critical, and how to em...
A Fatherless Father | Paul's Perspectives on Being a Dad
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Paul reflects on his journey as a father, sharing personal insights about growing up without a father and the impact it has had on his life. He discusses the importance of fatherhood, the lessons learned from his mother and community, and the challenges of parenting. Paul emphasizes the significance of being present for his children, teaching them values, and the ongoing journey of forgiveness and healing. He concludes with a heartfelt message about the love and respect a father can show to their children and the im...
Adrian Vega: A Barbers Journey
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In this episode, Paul Martinez interviews Adrian Vega, a seasoned barber and owner of AV Hair Co. They discuss Adrian's journey into barbering, the challenges he faced in life, and how he built a successful business while prioritizing family and community. Adrian shares insights on parenting, the importance of advocating for children, and the evolution of the barbering industry. The conversation also touches on celebrity clientele, personal growth, and advice for aspiring barbers.
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