It Starts with Yoo
It Starts With Yoo podcast with Anna Yoo is for ambitious people who know success isn’t just about the hustle—it’s about the lifestyle. From the latest in luxury, fashion, and entertainment, to real talk on wellness, personal growth, and living life on your terms—we’re here to elevate every part of your journey.
The Power of Connection: From Building WeAudition to Community with Darren Darnborough

Building a Thriving Entertainment Community with Darren Darnborough
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo talks with Darren Darnborough, the founder of WeAudition, exploring how he created a supportive community for actors. They discuss the evolution of WeAudition from a software platform to a community where actors can connect, collaborate, and even form lasting personal relationships. Darren delves into the importance of live events, shared experiences, and maintaining resilience and drive. The conversation also touches upon the impact of social media on relationships, the potential role of AI in providing support, and...
Music, Motherhood, and Marriage: Insights from Jessie Stafford

Navigating Motherhood, Music, and Mental Wellness with Jessie Stafford
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo welcomes Jessie Stafford, a multifaceted artist known for her 2003 rendition of the national anthem and her role as the host of 'Messy Sexy Me.' Jessie shares the emotional journey of her pregnancy, overcoming the challenges of motherhood, including a traumatic appendicitis scare and postpartum depression. Jessie emphasizes the importance of personal growth, effective communication, and self-healing in relationships. She also reflects on her journey with imposter syndrome and her upcoming venture into producing her first...
Ben Weiss on AI Driven Design, Dating, and the Future of Footwear

Revolutionizing Footwear: AI Shoes and Miami’s Entrepreneurial Scene with Ben Weiss
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo interviews Ben Weiss, a pioneering entrepreneur who has teamed up with Reebok founder Joe Foster to develop AI-designed, 3D-printed custom shoes for content creators. Ben shares insights into his innovative footwear brand and discusses his collaboration with industry leaders. The conversation also delves into the unique dating culture in Miami, compared to LA, and how Miami's vibrant, entrepreneurial spirit shapes personal and professional lives. Towards the end, Ben talks about his podcast, 'Legends an...
Beyond the Red Carpet: Eugenia Gul on Life, Love, and Growth

Finding Strength Through Self-Love: A Conversation with Eugenia Gul
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo interviews Eugenia Gul, the author of 'Love Book' and Miss European Universe Ambassador. Eugenia shares her journey of self-discovery and healing, emphasizing the importance of building a relationship with oneself before others. She discusses her 12-year therapy experience, her group coaching sessions focused on happiness and self-love, and how personal struggles inspired her to write her book. The conversation touches on the impact of childhood traumas on relationships, the importance of honesty and self-compassion, and the...
Nicholas Gammell on Passion, Progress, and Personal Growth in Fitness Tech

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Wellness with Nicholas Gammell
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo', host Anna Yoo sits down with Nicholas Gammell, a serial fitness tech founder and the mind behind Game Fitness. They dive deep into how Nicholas started his first company, the intersection of fitness and technology, and the mental and motivational challenges associated with fitness. Nicholas also shares insights into his personal life, discussing how his career has impacted his relationships, the pros and cons of being an entrepreneur, and his experience dating across different cities. Additionally, they explore the balance between love...
Behind the Screens: Relationships and Real Life with Nami

Navigating Relationships and Social Media with Nami
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' Anna Yoo interviews Nami, a content creator with over 400,000 followers. The discussion covers the impact of relationships on social media viewership and the balancing act between an online persona and real life. Nami shares her personal journey of becoming a full-time content creator, dealing with childhood trauma, and the importance of therapy. Key topics include the role of communication in relationships, dealing with public scrutiny, and advice on self-love and growth. The episode underscores the importance of emotional availability and self-improvement...
Phillip Botello on Balancing Fame and Personal Life

Balancing Act: Navigating Relationships in the Entertainment Industry with Phillip Botello
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo sits down with actor Phillip Botello, known for his film 'Becoming Vera,' to discuss the challenges of maintaining relationships while working in the entertainment industry. They dive into Phillip's experiences at various film festivals, the pressures of media speculation, and strategies to manage personal and professional life. Phillip shares valuable insights on the importance of keeping some aspects of relationships private, the impact of fame on personal dynamics, and how to maintain trust...
Building Success and Relationships with Scott Clary

Unlocking Success: Insights on Podcasting, Relationships, and Personal Growth with Scott Clary
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo', host Anna Yoo sits down with Scott Clary, the successful host of the 'Success Story' podcast, to explore his journey in podcasting and how he maintains mental clarity, high energy, stable relationships, and a strong community of over a million followers. Scott shares valuable insights on why he chose podcasting, the evolution of his content, the importance of incorporating personal experiences into his work, and how to stay consistent and motivated. Besides podcasting, the discussion delves deep...
The Power of Communication in Relationships with Stephanie Mintz

Building Strong Relationships with Strategic Consultant Stephanie Mintz
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo', host Anna Yoo sits down with Strategic Relationship Consultant Stephanie Mintz to discuss effective strategies for building stronger relationships, identifying potential problems, and solving complex relationship issues. Stephanie shares her innovative approach, developed from her background as a marriage and family therapist, emphasizing the importance of communication and strategic action. She also provides insightful tips for dating, pre-marital counseling, and handling serious relationship dilemmas such as family planning disagreements. Tune in for practical advice and learn how to navigate both personal...
Building Connections: The Light DAO Community and Love Story of Payam Safa

Building Conscious Relationships: A Conversation with Payam Safa
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo speaks with Payam Safa, founder of the Light DAO community. Payam shares insights into the mission and values of Light DAO, which focuses on raising global consciousness and promoting dignity and self-worth. He also delves into the story of how he met his fiancée, Hannah Kim, highlighting their serendipitous connection and the pillars that form the foundation of their relationship: mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual alignment. Payam further emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself through exercises l...
Keeping It Real: Relationships and Career in the Digital Age with Eric Spivak

Navigating Crypto, Relationships, and Authenticity with Eric Spivak
In this episode of It Starts With Yoo, host Anna Yoo sits down with Eric Spivak, founder of New Friendship Tech, DJ, and rapper, to discuss his journey through the tech and crypto world. They delve into the impact of crypto on dating, the misconceptions within the industry, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a digital age. Eric shares personal anecdotes and insights about the volatile nature of both crypto markets and modern relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication and genuine connections. The conversation also touches on the...
Beyond the Horizon: Emotional Insights from Matteo Mancini

Navigating Relationships, Life Lessons, and Emotional Awareness with Matteo Mancini
In this episode of 'It Starts With Yoo,' host Anna Yoo sits down with Matteo Mancini, founder of Old Plank Adventures, to explore his views on relationships and personal growth. Matteo shares insights on recognizing red flags, the importance of emotional and intellectual connection, and societal differences in gender roles. They also discuss the impact of careers on personal dynamics, the significance of personal awareness in relationships, and practices for maintaining emotional well-being. Additionally, Matteo offers a glimpse into his entrepreneurial ventures, including his coffee brand...
Welcome to It Starts With Yoo with Anna Yoo
Introduction to Wellness in LA Dating Culture
In the debut episode of 'It Starts With You' podcast, host Anna Yoo discusses the challenges of dating in Los Angeles and the significance of mental health and wellness in relationships. She explains the unique focus of the podcast on providing diverse perspectives from both men and women to help listeners enrich their dating experiences. Anna shares her personal story, detailing her background in education, public relations, and her pageant experiences, and how these experiences have shaped the creation of this support-based podcast. Join Anna in building a community that...