In this powerful episode of the Agents of Innovation podcast, Joe Gallagher—founder and CEO of Apastioli and a former Grammy-nominated musician—shares his remarkable journey from rising rock artist to surviving a devastating car accident, spiraling into addiction, facing legal battles, and ultimately finding faith, sobriety, and a new entrepreneurial purpose. Joe recounts how a simple batch of his grandmother’s pasta sauce sparked the launch of Apastioli, a rapidly growing food and fragrance brand intertwined with his mission to help others in recovery. He also reveals his vision for a regenerative farm, upcoming film and TV projects based on his story, and why manifestation, service, and trusting God now guide his life and business.
Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/BrUi_wDB3ug
Learn more about him at: https://www.apastioli.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/joegallagherjr/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio
X: / https://x.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: / https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
00:00 – Intro to Joe Gallagher and the Agents of Innovation podcast.
01:20 – Meeting Joe in Charleston
03:20 – The Fearless Journeys community & upcoming Chile–Argentina trip
04:24 – What is Apastioli?
04:59 – Grammy Nomination & The Car Accident
06:18 – Injuries, Recovery, and Identity Crisis
07:42 – Attempted Murder Charge
09:56 – DUI, Addiction, and Hitting Bottom; The downward spiral and legal consequences.
13:17 – Rock Bottom to Redemption.
14:30 – Pasta Sauce Sparks a Business; How feeding friends in recovery launched Apastioli.
21:41 – Packaging, FDA, and Scaling Challenges
23:10 – Vision for a Regenerative Farm
26:13 – Discovering the 1,700-acre Long Wing Plantation
27:38 – From Bars to Jars (the Book); Joe’s first book and the storytelling strategy behind it.
28:36 – Angel Studios Reaches Out
29:38 – Writing the Fictional Sequel; A future vision in book form
31:28 – The Power of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship; How Joe’s story builds brand connection.
32:14 – Angel Studios, The Chosen & Film Industry Insights
36:02 – The Apastioli Brand Expands to Fragrances; Moonshine lessons, oil extraction, and luxury fragrance development.
40:38 – Vision, Manifestation & Mapping the Future; Why Joe writes fiction to shape reality.
42:24 – The Letter to God That Came True; A year of manifestations unexpectedly becoming reality.
43:30 – How to Get Joe’s Book, "From Bars to Jars," and where to find it online.
44:21 – Apastioli: Products, Website & Trademark Story; Where to buy Apastioli sauces and fragrances.
45:44 – Joe’s Film/TV Development Team; Managers, agents, producers—full momentum ahead.
48:36 – The 1,700-Acre Farm Update: Why the owners are holding out for Joe’s project.
49:36 – Investment Opportunity; Joe is open to investors and shares potential ROI.
50:17 – Joe’s Message to Anyone Struggling: Why his phone number is public and how he wants to serve others.
51:30 – Closing Thoughts: Faith, manifestation, service, and Joe’s gratitude.
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In this powerful episode of the Agents of Innovation podcast, Joe Gallagher—founder and CEO of Apastioli and a former Grammy-nominated musician—shares his remarkable journey from rising rock artist to surviving a devastating car accident, spiraling into addiction, facing legal battles, and ultimately finding faith, sobriety, and a new entrepreneurial purpose. Joe recounts how a simple batch of his grandmother’s pasta sauce sparked the launch of Apastioli, a rapidly growing food and fragrance brand intertwined with his mission to help others in recovery. He also reveals his vision for a regenerative farm, upcoming film and TV projects based on his story, and why manifestation, service, and trusting God now guide his life and business.
Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/BrUi_wDB3ug
Learn more about him at: https://www.apastioli.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/joegallagherjr/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio
X: / https://x.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: / https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
00:00 – Intro to Joe Gallagher and the Agents of Innovation podcast.
01:20 – Meeting Joe in Charleston
03:20 – The Fearless Journeys community & upcoming Chile–Argentina trip
04:24 – What is Apastioli?
04:59 – Grammy Nomination & The Car Accident
06:18 – Injuries, Recovery, and Identity Crisis
07:42 – Attempted Murder Charge
09:56 – DUI, Addiction, and Hitting Bottom; The downward spiral and legal consequences.
13:17 – Rock Bottom to Redemption.
14:30 – Pasta Sauce Sparks a Business; How feeding friends in recovery launched Apastioli.
21:41 – Packaging, FDA, and Scaling Challenges
23:10 – Vision for a Regenerative Farm
26:13 – Discovering the 1,700-acre Long Wing Plantation
27:38 – From Bars to Jars (the Book); Joe’s first book and the storytelling strategy behind it.
28:36 – Angel Studios Reaches Out
29:38 – Writing the Fictional Sequel; A future vision in book form
31:28 – The Power of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship; How Joe’s story builds brand connection.
32:14 – Angel Studios, The Chosen & Film Industry Insights
36:02 – The Apastioli Brand Expands to Fragrances; Moonshine lessons, oil extraction, and luxury fragrance development.
40:38 – Vision, Manifestation & Mapping the Future; Why Joe writes fiction to shape reality.
42:24 – The Letter to God That Came True; A year of manifestations unexpectedly becoming reality.
43:30 – How to Get Joe’s Book, "From Bars to Jars," and where to find it online.
44:21 – Apastioli: Products, Website & Trademark Story; Where to buy Apastioli sauces and fragrances.
45:44 – Joe’s Film/TV Development Team; Managers, agents, producers—full momentum ahead.
48:36 – The 1,700-Acre Farm Update: Why the owners are holding out for Joe’s project.
49:36 – Investment Opportunity; Joe is open to investors and shares potential ROI.
50:17 – Joe’s Message to Anyone Struggling: Why his phone number is public and how he wants to serve others.
51:30 – Closing Thoughts: Faith, manifestation, service, and Joe’s gratitude.
In this powerful episode of the Agents of Innovation podcast, Joe Gallagher—founder and CEO of Apastioli and a former Grammy-nominated musician—shares his remarkable journey from rising rock artist to surviving a devastating car accident, spiraling into addiction, facing legal battles, and ultimately finding faith, sobriety, and a new entrepreneurial purpose. Joe recounts how a simple batch of his grandmother’s pasta sauce sparked the launch of Apastioli, a rapidly growing food and fragrance brand intertwined with his mission to help others in recovery. He also reveals his vision for a regenerative farm, upcoming film and TV projects based on his story, and why manifestation, service, and trusting God now guide his life and business.
Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/BrUi_wDB3ug
Learn more about him at: https://www.apastioli.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/joegallagherjr/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio
X: / https://x.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: / https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
00:00 – Intro to Joe Gallagher and the Agents of Innovation podcast.
01:20 – Meeting Joe in Charleston
03:20 – The Fearless Journeys community & upcoming Chile–Argentina trip
04:24 – What is Apastioli?
04:59 – Grammy Nomination & The Car Accident
06:18 – Injuries, Recovery, and Identity Crisis
07:42 – Attempted Murder Charge
09:56 – DUI, Addiction, and Hitting Bottom; The downward spiral and legal consequences.
13:17 – Rock Bottom to Redemption.
14:30 – Pasta Sauce Sparks a Business; How feeding friends in recovery launched Apastioli.
21:41 – Packaging, FDA, and Scaling Challenges
23:10 – Vision for a Regenerative Farm
26:13 – Discovering the 1,700-acre Long Wing Plantation
27:38 – From Bars to Jars (the Book); Joe’s first book and the storytelling strategy behind it.
28:36 – Angel Studios Reaches Out
29:38 – Writing the Fictional Sequel; A future vision in book form
31:28 – The Power of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship; How Joe’s story builds brand connection.
32:14 – Angel Studios, The Chosen & Film Industry Insights
36:02 – The Apastioli Brand Expands to Fragrances; Moonshine lessons, oil extraction, and luxury fragrance development.
40:38 – Vision, Manifestation & Mapping the Future; Why Joe writes fiction to shape reality.
42:24 – The Letter to God That Came True; A year of manifestations unexpectedly becoming reality.
43:30 – How to Get Joe’s Book, "From Bars to Jars," and where to find it online.
44:21 – Apastioli: Products, Website & Trademark Story; Where to buy Apastioli sauces and fragrances.
45:44 – Joe’s Film/TV Development Team; Managers, agents, producers—full momentum ahead.
48:36 – The 1,700-Acre Farm Update: Why the owners are holding out for Joe’s project.
49:36 – Investment Opportunity; Joe is open to investors and shares potential ROI.
50:17 – Joe’s Message to Anyone Struggling: Why his phone number is public and how he wants to serve others.
51:30 – Closing Thoughts: Faith, manifestation, service, and Joe’s gratitude.
Mod Cárdenas (b. Guatemala 1982) is a contemporary visual artist and pioneer of Guatemalan street art.
Alongside his art, Cardenas pursued a career in Clinical Psychology, that has informed his approach to art from a research and observational base.
Cardenas has exhibited extensively around the world with 14 solo exhibitions and several group shows, in addition to his murals and public art installations locally and abroad. His work has received numerous honors including the Highly Commended Award from SAP in Australia, Honorific Mention by Fundación Rozas Botrán in Guatemala, and a finalist position at GAA in Dubai. He was also recognized by the Finance Minister of Guatemala for his contribution to Guatemalan culture and by the Congress of the Guatemalan Republic for his impactful contributions and elevation of the art and culture produced in their country. His work is included in collections such as the Guatemalan National Congress Collection, the Luciano Benetton Collection in Italy, and the Fundación Rozas-Botrán Museum in Guatemala.
Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/6NqFcTrLYnM
Learn more about him at: https://www.modcardenas.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/mod77art/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
Want us to host a Fearless Journey group trip to Memphis with Matt Stone? Email us at: fearlessjourneysLLC at gmail dot com
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
00:00 Episode Introduction
00:50 How do we meet?
01:05 First time listening to an episode? // What is Fearless Journeys
3:08 Where did you get your name Mod?
04:39 At what time did you start doing graffiti?
07:04 Art is part of everybody’s life
09:14 10 Characteristics of a successful entrepreneur Curious & creative
10:58 How did you start? Why were you anonymous
13:30 Education and other jobs
16:54 Why Mod became a top 5 Tattoo Artist in Guatemala City
18:17 How do people find you before Social Media?
19:15 What kind of art are you particularly known for now?
21:37 Mod’s studio
24:00 Self education & Social media
27:44 How’s a Guatemalan artist recognized internally and externally
30:03 The importance of telling your story
35:44 The Power of connections
41:05 How can an artist get income?
42:00 How to manage your income being an solo entrepreneur
42:52 Finding a partner that understands you
51:45 How did you get your own Studio
52:15 Not everything is smooth Sailing as an artist - The power of MKTNG
55:14 How to contact Mod
57:35 Commission art and work
59:42 How do you help other artists
1:05:30 Difference between the artist mind and the entrepreneurial mind
1:12:15 You need to sell yourself
1:16:15 Traveling & awards
1:22:30 How many countries have you been to now?
1:25:00 Wrap
Matt Stone was a previous guest on Episode 117 of the Agents of Innovation (October 2022). You can revisit that episode for Matt's story before 2022 here: https://youtu.be/eF_lJ03STrc?si=L4Ry0Yl9CHF0RPbP
In this episode, we catch up with him since so much has happened in his life and career. A husband and now father of a 2-year old, Matt has taken his Elvis tribute show all over the United States and even internationally. He has met Priscilla Presley and even played Elvis' piano in RCA Studio B. This episode will teach you how one young man is charting his own course and how you can learn and apply lessons from his own story.
Learn more about Matt Stone at: https://www.mattstoneaselvis.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/realmattstone
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vEmfhO54l24
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
Want us to host a Fearless Journey group trip to Memphis with Matt Stone? Email us at: fearlessjourneysLLC at gmail dot com
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
0:00 Episode Introduction
3:02 Expanding the Elvis Tribute Artist tour
6:14 Renting Venues, Taking Risk and Ownership
7:34 Why Being a Student of Marketing and Advertising Helps
10:25 How to Pitch Talent Buyers to Take On Risk of Show Expenses
11:14 Creating Your Own Opportunity with Four Wall Touring
13:28 Why Entertainers Should Build Business Skills
18:53 National Touring with a Full Band
25:32 Playing Elvis' Piano in RCA Studio B in Nashville
30:57 The Importance of Consistency in Business Marketing
37:25 Learning Through Free Resources
38:45 Training AI as Your Assistant
40:48 Balancing a Separate Full Time Job and Being an Elvis Tribute Artist
44:37 Meeting Priscilla Presley
51:31 What's Next For Matt Stone?
53:40 Learning by Doing
54:30 Detail-oriented in Recreating Authentic Elvis Shows
1:01:50 Recapping Lessons We Can Learn from Matt Stone
1:04:08 Next Step: Scaling Up
1:05:56 A Trip to Memphis with Matt Stone?
Francois de Neuville is the founder of Man Uncharted and author of "The Illusion of Time: 11 Lessons How Not to Suck at Life."
Francois is a survivor of the 2018 tsunami and 7.5 earthquake in Indonesia. He was an officer and platoon leader in the Belgian military and trained as a commando-paratrooper. Through his adventures around the world, François brings a unique perspective and depth of knowledge to his work as a high-performance coach, speaker, and author. François is dedicated to sharing his insights with others and empowering people to show up in a way they’ve never done before to achieve greatness. With his guidance and support, you too can learn to master yourself, master your time, and create an epic life that is truly fulfilling.
Learn more about Francois at: https://www.francoisdeneuville.com
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/UjHrx9Z9QqU
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org
0:00 Introduction to episode
3:24 Surviving the Tsunami: A Life-Changing Experience
10:08 The Universal Truths of Time
11:10 Confronting Mortality: Lessons from Bhutan
15:26 The Perception of Time: Speeding Up or Slowing Down?
19:14 The Nomadic Lifestyle: Embracing Freedom and Minimalism
26:22 Choosing Your Problems: Empowerment Through Travel
30:48 Suffering is a Choice: Perspective on Pain
34:56 Pain vs Suffering: Understanding the Difference
36:19 The Grieving Process: Navigating Loss and Healing
39:46 Embracing Discomfort: The Path to Growth
43:19 Challenging Comfort Zones: Adventures and Risks
48:44 Living Boldly: The Importance of Taking Risks
55:41 Man Uncharted: Building Brotherhood and Resilience
Douglas Pestana has over 13 years of experience in data science, machine learning, natural language processing, and AI. Throughout his career, Douglas has managed data science and analytics in healthcare, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. He has built and deployed various AI models, making him the perfect fit to lead the development of our innovative contract review software. He’s also the founder of Remix Institute, a startup that trains members for careers in AI.
You can learn more about Douglas Pestana and his team at LegalMente AI here:
https://legalmente.ai/team/
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/J9UdhqRpM_E
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org
0:00 Episode Intro
2:24 Introduction of Douglas Pestana
4:20 Early life and education in Tampa, Florida
5:25 Excelling in Mathematics and Cultivating Strengths
11:00 First Post-College Job as a Data Analyst in Las Vegas
14:44 Putting the Odds in Your Favor
16:51 Where Innovation Flourishes Most
18:54 Using AI to Be a Problem Solver
20:12 Real Value of Machine Learning: Predicting the Future
22:30 How AI can help entrepreneurs
23:50 AI Machines: Automating Known Factors to Predicting the Unknown
30:55 How to Integrate AI into our daily habits
38:08 What is LegalMente and why was it founded?
42:14 How the average person & lawyers can benefit from LegalMente AI
44:40 Will AI eliminate jobs for lawyers?
51:10 How solo practitioners and small legal firms can use LegalMente AI
53:23 How LegalMente uses technology and the law in its product
53:50 How and why everyone should begin utilizing AI tools in their daily use
55:13 How Fearless Journeys helps entrepreneurs connect and solve problems
55:48 Entrepreneurs are Problem Solvers
58:28 How Alexander McCobin and Ron Paul brought Francisco and Doug together
Riley Kaminer is the Founder of ClearCritical, a team of storytellers and strategists helping VCs amplify their vision. They turn investment theses and portfolio successes into compelling narratives that engage LPs and elevate their firms' brands.
An experienced tech journalist, Riley’s research and writing has appeared in Forbes, The Times (UK), Rest of World, Cities Today, Refresh Miami, and many more. Through his coverage of 400+ startups – and ghostwriting for dozens more – he is keenly aware of what gives stories long-term impact. Riley leverages his experience as a journalist to empower startups to build their own media ecosystem. His bespoke content strategy will enable you to become a thought leader and spread your ideas at scale. Ultimately, this content creation helps your company gain credibility, lock down leads, and drive sales. As a founder, your insights can change the world. But these ideas won’t go anywhere unless you create content. Work with Riley and unlock your inner thought leader.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/XZaLosM6V2k
You can learn more about Riley Kaminer at: https://rileykaminer.com
Find his company ClearCritical at: https://www.clearcritical.com
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org
0:00 Episode Intro
1:47 Introduction of Riley Kaminer
3:04 Growing up with an international mindset
5:58 Attending College in the UK / Scotland
8:54 Studying abroad in Madrid
10:18 Comparing to U.S. college experience
13:10 Degrees in Business, Spanish, and Latin American Studies
14:58 Becoming a Writer Requires Collecting Experiences
16:18 Working for a Film Distributor in the UK
18:00 Moving to Spain with a Digital Nomad Visa
18:59 Living and Working in South Florida Post-Pandemic
23:03 Writing about Tech for Refresh Miami
25:17 Freelance writing for a variety of publications
25:48 First job develops work ethic
28:12 What sparked early interest in journalism
31:58 Founding ClearCritical to tell stories in a different way
35:21 Repurposing your skills in a rapidly changing economy
39:59 How ClearCritical can help you
41:28 The importance of repetitive storytelling
47:52 Choosing to live and work from Madrid
51:48 Personal benefits of entrepreneurship
Vuk Velebit is the co-founder and executive director of the Pupin Initiative, which has become the hub for bolstering US-Serbia ties, doing so through collaborative and non-partisan efforts and policies. The Pupin Initiative was established with the same values that renowned Serbian-American scientist and inventor Mihajlo (Michael) Pupin espoused over 100 years ago. They bring together young entrepreneurs, cross-field experts, and value creators from both the United States and Serbia, focus on creating impactful networks through a bottom-up approach, and provide an authentic understanding of local contexts. The Pupin Initiative is privately funded to ensure commitment and efficiency, and to surpass any bureaucratic shortcomings.
Vuk Velebit is a leading new-generation political analyst, renowned for his expertise in foreign and security policy, media analysis, and political strategy.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/5qvATL-79q8
You can learn more about the Pupin Initiative at: https://pupin.org
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / innovationradio
Twitter: / agentinnovation
Facebook: / agentsofinnovationpodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org
0:00 Episode Intro
1:55 Introduction of Vuk Velebit
3:52 Why the Pupin Initiative?
5:55 Who was Michael Pupin?
10:28 Serbia's dynamic geographic location
14:06 U.S. companies with hubs in Belgrade
16:08 Serbia's startup ecosystem & US trade partnership
17:00 High-skilled tech talent
18:16 Why most Serbians speak English
24:05 Real Estate Investment in Belgrade waterfront
28:53 The need for internal investment in Serbia
30:43 Serbian economy and access to international markets
37:15 Serbian Dinar a very sound currency
37:50 Visiting Belgrade & learning its history
43:40 U.S. Presidential visits to Serbia
46:38 Connecting Belgrade and Miami
48:45 The affect of Russia, Ukraine, and Israel on Serbia
51:48 Serbian Orthodox Church & rich history in Belgrade
54:25 Events and Activities of the Pupin Initiative
58:01 Meeting with decision makers in Washington DC
1:01:06 The future of Serbia and U.S.-Serbia relations
Kevin Comer and Brian Graham are both frequent travelers on group trips organized by Agents of Innovation podcast host Francisco Gonzalez, who is also the founder & CEO of Fearless Journeys. In this unique podcast episode, the three recount personal and group trips and offer lots of great travel advice while recounting amusing stories -- some of which are almost hard to believe!
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/zGZWcKE1WAg
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: www.fearlessjourneys.org
Find Brian Graham on Instagram at @brianhgraham
Find Kevin Comer on Instagram at @kevininFlorida
Guardian Capital S.A. is a Buenos Aires-based financial advisory firm dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through personalized investment strategies. With a team of seasoned professionals, the firm offers tailored solutions in asset allocation, risk management, and portfolio optimization to ensure clients' capital is both protected and positioned for growth.
Episode 156 of the Agents of Innovation podcast features two of their co-founders, Tomás Ambrosetti and Martin D'odorico.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRFF3p8qmrEG4l4uR1BDZQg
On the 2024 Fearless Journeys group trip to Argentina, our group visited with Tomas and Martin. Now, we bring the world a full conversation with them about how they have grown to about 1,000 clients in just two years as a firm. They use many social media platforms (see below) to communicate financial education messages; these communication and media efforts also help to expand their brand and attract new clients.
You can learn more about Guardian Capital at: https://guardiancapital.com.ar
Follow Guardian Capital on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guardiancapital_/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@guardiancapital
YouTube:
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org
Julian Castillo is an urban architect with Siudad, a company in Guatemala City that proclaims that CITY (spelled "Siudad" instead of the grammatically correct "Ciudad") "is a positive mindset to improve city life." They believe that Guatemalan cities have the opportunity to become successful urban hubs, bringing economic prosperity, well-being and health to their citizens and visitors.
Siudad is committed to facilitating, educating and empowering Guatemalans to plan, design and build the cities of the future.
Julian Castillo was our guest on episode 155 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can learn more about Siudad at: https://siudad.org
You can find Julian Castillo online at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julián-castillo-holzheu-9a002599/
You can also WATCH this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/c82rDVMvOUQ
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Dennis Hulbert has had a very successful career for 39 years with the U.S.D.A Forest Service as the Region 5 Aviation Officer representing California and Pacific Islands. After retiring he began to focus on his lifelong passion as a musician and his work with the music group that he founded 33 years ago, Machaira. Working with such notable musicians as John McFee from Doobie Brothers, Billy Kirchen from Commander Cody, Dennis is looking to take his band to a new level. This current journey is allowing Dennis the opportunity to work/record with many great players: Marc Russo- from Doobie Brothers, Mic Gillette from Tower Of Power, Michael Hossack- from Doobie Brothers, Brent Bourgeois from Bourgeois Tagg, Scott Joss from Merle Haggard, and Keith Edwards from Ricky Skaggs, to name a few. Dennis is devoting his time to developing and managing the Machaira band and the Go Girls of Machaira. Along with co-managing Machaira Entertainment, a multi facet entertainment endeavor.
Dennis was our guest on Episode 154 of the Agents of Innovation podcast. Learn more about him and his band Machaira at: https://www.coopdeville.com and their YouTube page at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_2eojoSgKJKcF_FzMd-iTg
You can watch this full episode on YouTube podcast: https://youtu.be/O2IJrOYxJs8
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also learn more about how to join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
0:00 Episode Intro
2:46 Introducing Dennis Hulbert
3:16 Work for the U.S. Forest Service
4:58 Innovating in the fire retardant space
7:43 Be a good team leader
8:22 The inspiration to go into the U.S. Forestry Service
9:12 Aviation Officer in California and Pacific Islands
11:24 Early days learning music
13:02 Faith music, tours of Russia, American diplomacy
14:00 Surround yourself with good people
14:14 Over 40 people have been in the band, world tours, top guest artists
14:35 Nonprofit band, have never charged a penny
15:25 Taking band to the next level
16:10 11-person band, seasoned professionals, and a movie
18:09 A future reality TV show?
19:03 California, Montana, and tours
19:46 New album: Life is a Rock and Roll Circus
21:51 The business of music
26:25 Profiles of other band members
30:52 The origin of the band name, "Machaira"
32:30 New album releases March 2025 and live shows
34:45 Cover of Elvis Presley "Saved"
35:15 Agent of Innovation Matt Stone as Elvis
37:00 Learn by doing, never miss a gig, and practice
39:50 Keys to success
Nick was our guest on Episode 153 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can find him on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasbourdon
You can learn more about Reef Arches at: https://reefarches.com
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Watch this episode on YouTube here:
https://youtu.be/lteqI8n6yu8
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
0:00 Episode Intro
2:25 Intro to Nick Bourdon and Reef Arches
3:40 How Reef Arches solves the problem of beach erosion
5:55 How humans reacted to beach erosion before Reef Arches
7:18 How Reef Arches was conceived and patent achieved
9:19 Being an entrepreneur within a larger company, Hedrick Brothers Construction
15:35 Partnering with local governments in Florida
19:45 Ripple effects across the economy
24:51 Reef Arch construction material and design
29:05 Nick Bourdon's early life and education
32:00 Nick's habits and daily routine
34:02 Transporting Reef Arches
35:00 Nick's first job
36:30 The freedom of being an entrepreneur
37:30 Innovating within a company
48:12 Mentorship
49:20 The ideal customers and products
51:40 Facing the competition
52:43 Global economic solutions
54:10 Last words
Edwin H. (Ed) Moore, Ph.D., is the President-Emeritus of the Independent Colleges and Universities ofFlorida, a Tallahassee based association of 30 private, not for profit colleges and universities. He led the Association from 2003 until 2019. He also served as the Executive Director of the Higher EducationFacilities Finance Authority in Florida and as Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Independent College Fund, a non-profit organization.
Over his career he has served in leadership roles in both legislative and executive branches, in the private sector and in several not for profit organizations. He is a recognized policy expert. He has served in many significant positions in a wide array of policy arenas, including education, insurance, healthcare, mental health, criminal justice, and many other areas. As Florida recovered from Covid related issues he was asked to serve as Executive Director of the RESET Florida Task Force, helping to develop action plans to bolster the Florida economy. He authored "The Speakers Vol. II, a history of the Speakers of the Florida House of Representatives."
Ed was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve as a member of the Florida Commission on Ethics and previously to the Florida Constitution mandated Government Efficiency Task Force. He currently serves as a Trustee for the HCA Florida Capital Hospital, and as a member of the Florida Historic Capitol Foundation Board of Directors. He is a frequent guest on The Morning Show with Preston Scott, The Ed Dean Show, The Usual Suspects, and several other state outlets.
Ed earned a BS and an MSPA in the 1970’s from Florida State University, the master’s while working full-time. He had previously earned an AA from Broward Junior College while working full-time. After he sold his company and returned to Florida in 1999, he both worked full-time and pursued and earned his Ph.D. from FSU.
He has been married to Kathleen Armstrong Moore for 50 years. They have four adult children and eight wonderful grandchildren. They reside in Tallahassee.
Ed was our guest on Episode 152 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can follow him on X at: https://x.com/AFloridian
You can also watch this podcast on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vy4pXUfsTHc
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Subscribe to this channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRFF3p8qmrEG4l4uR1BDZQg
You can also subscribe to the Fearless Journeys travel channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwAHpA_AXxBafhI2jH8_rtg
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Fergus Hodgson is publisher of the Impunity Observer, a geopolitical intelligence service focused on the rule of law and economic development at the nexus of Anglo and Latin America. He is also the founder of Econ Americas LLC, a financial consultancy devoted to alternative investments, stakeholder management, and jurisdictional arbitrage. He is the author of the new book, "The Latin America Red Pill: My Search for Freedom South of the Border."
He was born in Hamilton, New Zealand, to a Kiwi father and an Irish-Canadian mother from Calgary, Alberta. Fergus grew up on a sheep and cattle farm and moved to the United States on a rowing scholarship to study economics at Boston University. He is a triple citizen who resides in Fort Collins, Colorado, and has been an expat in seven countries. Given pride in his Anglo-Celtic heritage, he travels frequently to the British Isles.
Fergus was our guest on Episode 151 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/r3FbV1RBnG4
You can follow him on X at: https://x.com/FergHodgson
You can also find out more about his new book, "The Latin America Red Pill" at: https://amzn.to/3OSxjDT
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You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Anisa Mirza is the founder and CEO of Litnerd, a K-8 reading and writing program. Litnerd creates original IP with their partner brands and turns them into books, media and learning curriculum, layered with an AI personalized tutor to help kids become authors and creators of IP and brand content. Their product format is a Social and Gamified - with a live weekly community meetup and monthly e-tournaments.
Anisa is also a 2x Y Combinator and venture-backed founder. She is also a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and boootstrapped her first startup from 0 to 2.5Mill ARR (exited). As an immigrant to America, running a women and minority owned business, Anisa takes special pride in seeing the impact Litnerd has in producing superior learning outcomes for students.
Anisa was our guest on Episode 150 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/r7sOLuk0-eA
You can follow Anisa on X at: https://x.com/TheAnisaMirza
You can also find out more about Litnerd at: https://www.litnerd.com
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Ernest Scheyder is an award-winning journalist, author, and senior correspondent for Reuters. He specializes in distilling complex topics for a wide range of audiences, including and especially everyday consumers directly affected by regulatory, political, and industry transitions.
In 2024, he published the widely acclaimed book, "The War Below: Lithium, Copper, and the Global Battle to Power Our Lives" (One Signal/Simon & Schuster), a human-focused narrative exploring the people that live on the energy transition’s front lines and an urgent guide to the rapidly growing critical minerals supply chain. The book was named a top pick by Fortune’s editors and earned plaudits from The Financial Times, The Wall Street Journal, Marketplace, Barron’s, WBUR’s On Point, Science magazine, The Christian Science Monitor, BBC World, Kirkus (starred review) and many others. Energy historian Daniel Yergin declared the book “vividly captures the physical and political landscape over which the future is being fought.”
Ernest was our guest on Episode 149 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can also watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ClJUJpwqGak
You can learn more about Ernest Scheyder and his book at: https://www.ernestscheyder.com
Ernest will have two appearances in Miami during the Miami Book Fair:
Saturday, November 23
Panelist, National Book Award Long List Top 10 List Recipient for Non-Fiction, Room 8301, moderated by Ruth Dickey
Sunday, November 24
1:00 PM in the AI Center
Find more details about the Miami Book Fair at: https://www.miamibookfair.com
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
Subscribe to this channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRFF3p8qmrEG4l4uR1BDZQg
You can also subscribe to the Fearless Journeys travel channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwAHpA_AXxBafhI2jH8_rtg
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Joseph Yonke is a fine painter based in Brickell, Miami, Florida. He was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Penn State University. He grew up painting, inspired by his grandfather, who is also an artist. Today, at nearly 25 years old, Joe is a painter who is known for his neo-abstract expressionism. Joe is a successful full-time artist, who often works 100 hours a week.
Joe was our guest on Episode 148 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can learn more about his work and find his art at: https://yonkeart.com. For special care, please let him know that you learned about his work on the Agents of Innovation podcast!
You can follow him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/jryonke/
You can also watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uIfYgRYyZHY
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
James O'Keefe is the Director of the new full-length feature film, a documentary called "Line In The Sand." It is available to stream on the Tucker Carlson Network. Watch the film here: https://tuckercarlson.com/line-in-the-sand
James is also the founder & CEO of O'Keefe Media Group. Learn more here: https://okeefemediagroup.com/
James was our guest on Episode 147 of the Agents of Innovation podcast. You can also check out our previous podcat with James on Episode 111 of the Agents of Innovation podcast (filmed in January 2022).
You can connect with James on X @JamesOKeefeIII
You can also watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tLHkHMmqrPE
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
James T. Fishback is the co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Azoria, a multi-asset investment firm. Prior to Azoria, he served as the Head of Macro at Greenlight Capital, a hedge fund founded by David M. Einhorn.
James was our guest on Episode 146 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can connect with James on X @j_fishbackand also through his website: http://headofmacro.com
You can also watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jVU9E4LY9PA
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
Evan Rally is the founder of Ride of Passage. Evan knows Thailand well - riding across the country 20k+ kilometers a year. When he’s not on two wheels, he’s an active participant in the Chiang Mai SEO community while building the Ride of Passage and It’s Better On The Road in to premier adventure travel companies.
Evan was our guest on Episode 145 of the Agents of Innovation podcast.
You can also watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MIV1-X7MhHU
You can connect with Evan on X @CaptainSidd and also through his website: https://www.rideofpassage.live/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/
In this powerful episode of the Agents of Innovation podcast, Joe Gallagher—founder and CEO of Apastioli and a former Grammy-nominated musician—shares his remarkable journey from rising rock artist to surviving a devastating car accident, spiraling into addiction, facing legal battles, and ultimately finding faith, sobriety, and a new entrepreneurial purpose. Joe recounts how a simple batch of his grandmother’s pasta sauce sparked the launch of Apastioli, a rapidly growing food and fragrance brand intertwined with his mission to help others in recovery. He also reveals his vision for a regenerative farm, upcoming film and TV projects based on his story, and why manifestation, service, and trusting God now guide his life and business.
Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/BrUi_wDB3ug
Learn more about him at: https://www.apastioli.com
Find him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/joegallagherjr/
Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on:
Instagram: / https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio
X: / https://x.com/agentinnovation
Facebook: / https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast
You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys
You can also join our network -- and our group trips -- through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org and subscribe to our free newsletter at: https://fearlessjourneys.substack.com
00:00 – Intro to Joe Gallagher and the Agents of Innovation podcast.
01:20 – Meeting Joe in Charleston
03:20 – The Fearless Journeys community & upcoming Chile–Argentina trip
04:24 – What is Apastioli?
04:59 – Grammy Nomination & The Car Accident
06:18 – Injuries, Recovery, and Identity Crisis
07:42 – Attempted Murder Charge
09:56 – DUI, Addiction, and Hitting Bottom; The downward spiral and legal consequences.
13:17 – Rock Bottom to Redemption.
14:30 – Pasta Sauce Sparks a Business; How feeding friends in recovery launched Apastioli.
21:41 – Packaging, FDA, and Scaling Challenges
23:10 – Vision for a Regenerative Farm
26:13 – Discovering the 1,700-acre Long Wing Plantation
27:38 – From Bars to Jars (the Book); Joe’s first book and the storytelling strategy behind it.
28:36 – Angel Studios Reaches Out
29:38 – Writing the Fictional Sequel; A future vision in book form
31:28 – The Power of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship; How Joe’s story builds brand connection.
32:14 – Angel Studios, The Chosen & Film Industry Insights
36:02 – The Apastioli Brand Expands to Fragrances; Moonshine lessons, oil extraction, and luxury fragrance development.
40:38 – Vision, Manifestation & Mapping the Future; Why Joe writes fiction to shape reality.
42:24 – The Letter to God That Came True; A year of manifestations unexpectedly becoming reality.
43:30 – How to Get Joe’s Book, "From Bars to Jars," and where to find it online.
44:21 – Apastioli: Products, Website & Trademark Story; Where to buy Apastioli sauces and fragrances.
45:44 – Joe’s Film/TV Development Team; Managers, agents, producers—full momentum ahead.
48:36 – The 1,700-Acre Farm Update: Why the owners are holding out for Joe’s project.
49:36 – Investment Opportunity; Joe is open to investors and shares potential ROI.
50:17 – Joe’s Message to Anyone Struggling: Why his phone number is public and how he wants to serve others.
51:30 – Closing Thoughts: Faith, manifestation, service, and Joe’s gratitude.
