In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Tom Birks — an Allstate Insurance Agency Owner with offices in Bloomfield, NJ and the Poconos (PA) — to break down the side of insurance most people never think about until it’s too late: coverage, liability, and protecting what you’ve worked for.
Tom shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Air Force during the first Gulf War to working on Wall Street, building a career in financial services, and eventually becoming an Allstate agency owner in 2017.
Today, his agency serves clients across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, and he’s on a mission to help people understand that insurance isn’t about the cheapest payment — it’s about the right protection. We talk about why “full coverage” is often misunderstood, why liability coverage is the most important part of an auto policy, how an accident can put your income, home, and assets at risk, and why an umbrella policy might be one of the smartest moves you can make.
Tom also explains why so many homeowners are underinsured after inflation and rising rebuild costs, and how to think like a pro using the “wise use of premium” approach — putting your money where it matters most. If you’ve ever shopped insurance online just to find the lowest price, this episode will change the way you look at auto, home, life, and umbrella coverage — especially if you own a home, have a family, run a business, or are building wealth.
If this episode raised questions about your own insurance coverage or made you realize it’s time for a review, you can reach out directly to Tom Birks at Allstate Insurance.
📞 973-420-2427
📧 tombirks@allstate.com
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and if nothing else… I Hope This Helps
#AutoInsurance #HomeInsurance #LiabilityCoverage
#UmbrellaPolicy #InsuranceTips #Podcast #BusinessPodcast
#FinancePodcast #IHopeThisHelps
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Jack Denelsbeck, co-owner of Pet Wants South Orange (SOMA), for an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and why pet nutrition matters more than most people realize.
Jack shares his journey from nonprofit work in HIV/AIDS education and corporate diversity training to building a thriving, community-focused pet nutrition business with his husband, Jonathan. Together, they’ve spent nearly a decade growing Pet Wants into a trusted local brand centered on fresh, slow-cooked dog and cat food, clean ingredients, and education—offering a thoughtful alternative to big-box pet stores and mass-produced pet food.
We dive into the realities of small business ownership, including transitioning careers, opening a brick-and-mortar store, learning when to say no, and balancing growth with personal well-being. Jack also opens up about confidence, resilience, and navigating entrepreneurship while staying deeply connected to the local South Orange and Maplewood community.
The conversation breaks down common misconceptions around pet food, what to look for on ingredient labels, and how quality nutrition impacts long-term pet health, energy, digestion, and overall wellness. Jack explains why fresh, small-batch food, clean treats, and thoughtful supplements can make a noticeable difference for both dogs and cats.
Whether you’re a pet parent, small business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode delivers real-world insight, practical advice, and honest lessons learned from building something meaningful.
To find out about Pet Wants SOMA visit Jack
www.petwantssouthorange.com
www.instagram.com/petwantssoma
Subscribe to I Hope This Helps for more conversations on business, community, and life experiences that—hopefully—help.
#pets #food #podcast #business #smallbusiness #ihopethishelps #dogs #cats #newjersey
In Part 2 on I Hope This Helps, Erick sits down with Newark Firefighters Union President and serial entrepreneur Michael Giunta to unpack his journey from towing trucks and running diners to leading one of New Jersey’s largest fire departments while building multiple successful businesses and launching a powerful veterans nonprofit. Mike opens up about Newark politics, city contracts, and union elections, and how getting transferred to the “slowest firehouse” as punishment became the moment he quietly built his empire.
Mike reflects on the tragic Newark Port ship fire that took the lives of firefighters Augusto “Augie” Acabou and Wayne Brooks, explaining how that loss sparked a push for better training, equipment, and statewide legislation—including a new $3 hotel room fee projected to generate millions for firefighter training. Mike also shares how he launched Feeding Our Heroes with support from Guy Fieri, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wegmans, and Acme, serving thousands of veterans and first responders across New Jersey while tackling food insecurity and expanding community resources.
Throughout the episode, he discusses leadership, hiring smarter people, balancing family and service, giving employees ownership, and building a legacy rooted in helping others rather than titles.
If you care about firefighters, veterans, Newark, New Jersey, small business, or real community leadership, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now to “I Hope This Helps with Erick Silva – Michael Giunta Part 2” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
In Part 2 on I Hope This Helps, Erick sits down with Newark Firefighters Union President and serial entrepreneur Michael Giunta to unpack his journey from towing trucks and running diners to leading one of New Jersey’s largest fire departments while building multiple successful businesses and launching a powerful veterans nonprofit. Mike opens up about Newark politics, city contracts, and union elections, and how getting transferred to the “slowest firehouse” as punishment became the moment he quietly built his empire. Mike reflects on the tragic Newark Port ship fire that took the lives of firefighters Augusto “Augie” Acabou and Wayne Brooks, explaining how that loss sparked a push for better training, equipment, and statewide legislation—including a new $3 hotel room fee projected to generate millions for firefighter training. Mike also shares how he launched Feeding Our Heroes with support from Guy Fieri, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Wegmans, and Acme, serving thousands of veterans and first responders across New Jersey while tackling food insecurity and expanding community resources. Throughout the episode, he discusses leadership, hiring smarter people, balancing family and service, giving employees ownership, and building a legacy rooted in helping others rather than titles.If you care about firefighters, veterans, Newark, New Jersey, small business, or real community leadership, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now to “I Hope This Helps with Erick Silva – Michael Giunta Part 2” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.To find out more about Mike you can follow him at:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BuxsGDeb6/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.instagram.com/baywaycateringhttps://www.instagram.com/feedourheroesnowhttps://www.facebook.com/share/17YGSPPjT4/?mibextid=wwXIfr
#spotify #apple #podcast #podcastclips #entrepreneur #fireman #safteyfirst #ihopethishelps #EntrepreneurStory #FirefighterLife #SmallBusinessJourney #NewarkNJ #BaywayDiner #RestaurantLife #HustleMindset #ServiceAndSuccess #CommunityLeaders#BusinessInspiration #IHopeThisHelpsPodcast#PodcastHighlights
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, firefighter, business owner, and community leader Mike Giunta shares a wild, very Jersey journey of grit, risk, and service — from taking on the City of Newark in his early 20s and running a towing company, to rescuing a rundown diner that became the iconic Bayway Diner and the pilot episode of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Mike breaks down what it was like to start over at 32 as a firefighter, build multiple businesses while working 24-hour shifts, and grow from a nine-stool diner to operating high-volume corporate cafeterias across New Jersey. He opens up about navigating politics, surviving COVID as a small operator, and leading with humility by trusting his team and always choosing the long game over the quick dollar.
If you’re into entrepreneurship, public service, food culture, or real stories about betting on yourself and building something that lasts, you’ll get a ton of value out of this conversation.
To find out more about Mike you can follow him at:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BuxsGDeb6/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/baywaycatering
https://www.instagram.com/feedourheroesnow
https://www.facebook.com/share/17YGSPPjT4/?mibextid=wwXIfr
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube — and don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review to support the show.
#EntrepreneurStory #FirefighterLife #SmallBusinessJourney #NewarkNJ #BaywayDiner #RestaurantLife #HustleMindset #ServiceAndSuccess #CommunityLeaders #BusinessInspiration #IHopeThisHelpsPodcast #PodcastHighlights #spotify #podcast
In Part 2 of our conversation, TikTok Shop creator and former realtor @vivianadoestiktok pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a profitable creator business from home.
Viv breaks down how creators are using AI-generated videos to scale content, why AI-driven accounts can still convert, and how consistency, strategy, and smart hooks matter more than follower count. She shares the reality behind her rapid growth — posting daily, chasing new viral products, studying trends, and treating TikTok like a full-time business while raising her daughter.
We dive into how follower count doesn’t equal sales, why some creators with 100K followers make $0, and how disciplined creators can out-earn traditional careers. Viv also touches on brand communication, TikTok events, and why many realtors and business owners are winning on social media by showcasing experience rather than just selling.
Whether you’re a creator, a parent, or someone looking for a path out of the traditional 9–5, Viv’s story is packed with insight, honesty, and practical tips you can apply today.
For more information on Viviana follow her on:
TikTok: @vivianadoestiktok
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#IHopeThisHelpsPodcast #VivianaPerperas #MompreneurLife #ContentCreatorLife #TikTokShopCreator #WomenInBusiness #CreatorEconomy #MomsWhoCreate #DigitalEntrepreneur #InspiringStories #tiktok
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Viviana Perperas — better known as @vivianadoestiktok — for Part 1 of our conversation about how she went from realtor and stay-at-home mom to a top-earning TikTok Shop creator. Viviana shares how a tough pregnancy, nearly taking a federal 9–5, and a leap of faith led her to TikTok, where she now earns serious income from home while raising her daughter.
We break down how TikTok Shop actually works — followers, commissions, viral products, consistency, and strategy — and why everyday people (not just influencers) can succeed. Viv opens up about the psychology behind sales, going viral, dealing with trolls, balancing motherhood, and treating content creation like a real business. She also shares how Spanish-language content helped her explode her audience and income.
Whether you’re a creator, a parent, or someone looking for a path out of the traditional 9–5, Viv’s story is inspiring, raw, and packed with practical gems.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#IHopeThisHelpsPodcast #VivianaPerperas #MompreneurLife #ContentCreatorLife #TikTokShopCreator #WomenInBusiness #CreatorEconomy #MomsWhoCreate #DigitalEntrepreneur #InspiringStories #tiktok
Coming up on 20 years in the title business, our next guest Pete Perperas (@pperperas) of RealSafe Title (@realsafetitle) breaks down everything buyers, sellers, and agents should know about title insurance and real estate closings in New Jersey.
Pete shares how he went from bartending to becoming one of NJ’s most trusted title pros, explaining how the industry evolved from attorney-driven to realtor-driven and from the old HUD to today’s Closing Disclosure (CD) system. He dives into what title really is, why lender’s vs. owner’s policies (and enhanced coverage) matter, and how to avoid overpaying with transparent fees.
We also get into e-recording, county deed-alert systems, and why 45–60 days is a normal closing timeline. Plus, Peter offers first-time buyer tips on escrow, surveys, and what to expect at the table — along with real stories about turning stressful closings into smooth transactions through communication and care.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
📍 For more information on Pete and Real Safe Title:
📞 Pete Perperas – 908-472-7908
🏢 Real Safe Title
📸 Instagram: @pperperas (https://www.instagram.com/pperperas) | @realsafetitle (https://www.instagram.com/realsafetitle)
#TitleInsurance #RealEstateNJ #ClosingDisclosure #RealtorTips #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #DeedFraud #RealSafeTitle #IHopeThisHelps #applepodcast #spotifypodcast #podcast #closings
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Decker Lindsay — the powerhouse behind Decker Lindsay Strength & Conditioning, an elite training facility in East Hanover, New Jersey, built on science, structure, and community.
Founded in 2017, Decker Lindsay Strength & Conditioning combines elite coaching, proper nutrition, recovery, and mindset to help athletes and everyday individuals reach their full potential. We dive into everything from diet, sleep optimization, and recovery routines to strength training and cardio balance — plus how Decker gets die-hard lifters to embrace cardio and cardio lovers to pick up the weights.
Decker also shares how he onboards new clients, helping them define clear goals and build sustainable routines that match their lifestyle. We discuss how his team trains both kids and professional athletes, tailoring each program to meet unique performance, growth, and recovery needs.
Whether you’re looking for group training, individual coaching, or to optimize your health, strength, and conditioning, this episode breaks down what it really takes to build lasting results.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
Learn More About Decker Lindsay Strength & Conditioning
Get inspired, stay connected, and take the next step in your fitness journey:
Website: deckerlindsay.com (https://deckerlindsay.com/)
Instagram: @deckerlindsaysc (https://www.instagram.com/deckerlindsaysc)
YouTube: Decker Lindsay (https://www.youtube.com/@deckerlindsay)
Facebook: Decker Lindsay Strength & Conditioning (https://www.facebook.com/deckerlindsaysc)
Check out Decker’s own podcast, The Performance Compass, where he dives deeper into training, recovery, and mindset:
Spotify: Listen Here (https://open.spotify.com/show/09q5n8iJ0I0YjY2HhxPnXv?si=76b417c3d22b4db0)
Apple Podcasts: Listen Here (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-performance-compass/id1794364296)
#IHopeThisHelps #DeckerLindsay #StrengthTraining #EastHanover #FitnessPodcast #Performance #Recovery #Diet #Sleep #Cardio #WeightTraining #HealthAndWellness #NJFitness #AthleteTraining #YouthAthletes #podcast #apple #spotify
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Dr. Larry Ordonez, founder of Peak Chiropractic and Wellness in Newark, NJ — a board-certified chiropractor with over a decade of experience helping patients relieve pain, restore balance, and improve overall wellness.Dr. Ordonez dives into how true health goes far beyond back adjustments — blending chiropractic care with modern recovery techniques like Ultrasound, Estim, Cryotherapy, Functional Stretching, and Light Therapy. From treating sciatica, neck and back pain, arthritis, and concussions to addressing the deeper connection between gut health, inflammation, and chronic pain, he breaks down how the body heals as one system.We also discuss dieting, fasting, and the rising popularity of weight-loss medications like Ozempic, exploring how lifestyle choices affect energy, metabolism, and the body’s natural ability to recover.Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, optimizing athletic performance, or simply trying to take back control of your health, this conversation is packed with practical insight on mobility, gut health, and long-term vitality.🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
For more information about Dr. Larry Ordonez and Peak Performance visit:
http://www.peakchirowellness.com
https://www.facebook.com/PEAKCHIROWELLNESS
https://www.instagram.com/larryodc
#chiropracticcare #GutHealth #PeakWellness #PainRelief #Ozempic #Fasting #WeightLossJourney #ChronicPain #NewarkNJ #HolisticHealth #ConcussionRecovery #FunctionalMedicine #BackPain #HealthPodcast #IHopethisHelps #HealthTransformation #PodcastForHealth #IHopeThisHelps #applepodcasts #spotify #YouTube #podcast #listen
Not many people get to create real change in the city they grew up in — but Councilman Michael Silva does just that every day. The son of Portuguese immigrants, Michael’s story is one of pride, purpose, and perseverance — grounded in his deep roots in Newark, New Jersey.
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we dive into how Michael built a strong relationship with Newark’s current mayor, Ras Baraka, and the collaboration that’s driving transformation across the city. We discuss his ongoing fight to improve garbage pickup, the exciting new developments on Ferry Street, and the major plans to rebuild East Side High School.
Michael also shares how Newark is expanding opportunities for the next generation — from introducing an architecture and trades school to creating new outlets and programs for kids that foster education, creativity, and community pride.
This conversation is about leadership, resilience, and giving back to the city that raised you — a reminder that local change starts with those who care enough to act.
For more information about Michael Silva please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/michaelsilvanewark
www.instagram.com/michaelsilvanewark
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to support the show.And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#podcast #BestAdvice #IHopeThisHelps #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessTips #PodcastLife #podcastinterview #IHopeThisHelps #spotify #podcast #apple #youtube #jersey #podcastepisode #entrepreneurship #newjersey #newark #eastward #community #portuguese
From sipping Shirley Temples as a kid to running one of New Jersey’s top Italian restaurants, Jon Jorge’s journey is a recipe for passion, persistence, and pasta.
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Jon Jorge, owner of Lucco Cucina & Bar in Florham Park, NJ, to uncover the real story behind the restaurant business. Jon shares how he fell in love with hospitality while working at his uncle’s restaurant, left to gain new experience, and worked his way up from dishwasher to bartender to owner.
We talk about how he built Lucco from the ground up—learning systems, managing suppliers, and adjusting when key staff left. Jon also gives a behind-the-scenes look at Lucco’s famous meatballs, the importance of customer satisfaction, and how he uses social media and a $10,000 holiday marketing plan to give back to loyal guests.
Whether you’re a foodie, a restaurant owner, or dreaming of opening your own spot one day, this episode serves up insights, inspiration, and a side of Jersey pride.
For more information about Lucco and Jon you can visit
https://www.luccobar.com
🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#podcast #podcasts #food #pasta #meatballs #ihopethishelps #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #family #cost #prices #hustle #drive #passion #foodie #applepodcasts #spotify #youtube #restaurant #socialmedia #marketing
Balancing Business and Family: Time Management That Actually Works
Running a business, raising a family, and managing a long commute? For most entrepreneurs, time management isn’t a perfect science—it’s teamwork, adaptability, and flying by the seat of your pants.
In this highlight episode of I Hope This Helps, we share how some of our guests juggle it all—what works, what doesn’t, and the systems they’ve built to make every hour count.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#PodcastHighlights #BestAdvice #IHopeThisHelps #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessTips #PodcastLife#PodcastInterview #IHopeThisHelps #spotify #podcast #apple #youtube #jersey #podcastepisode #entrepreneurship #newjersey #timemanagement
We’ve had incredible guests on I Hope This Helps — and the wisdom they’ve shared is too good not to revisit. From building businesses to sharpening mindset, these insights can change the way you work, think, and grow.
Which advice will stick with you? Hit play and find out.
🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
#PodcastHighlights #BestAdvice #IHopeThisHelps #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessTips #PodcastLife#PodcastInterview #IHopeThisHelps #spotify #podcast #apple #youtube #jersey #podcastepisode #entrepreneurship #newjersey
We’ve had some incredible guests on I Hope This Helps — and with them came unforgettable advice. From business growth to personal mindset, these gems are worth revisiting.
Which piece of advice resonates most with you?
Drop your favorite in the comments and don’t forget to follow for more insights from the next generation of entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders.
🎧 Full episodes streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
#PodcastHighlights #BestAdvice #IHopeThisHelps #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessTips #PodcastLife#PodcastInterview #IHopeThisHelps #spotify #podcast #apple #youtube #jersey #podcastepisode #entrepreneurship #newjersey
From East Side High School baseball teammates to building one of New Jersey’s premier entertainment companies, Eddie Boa has carved out an incredible career as the founder of DJs Unlimited. With more than 28 years in the industry, Eddie has taken his company from small venues and Jersey Shore clubs to weddings across the state and around the world.
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, Eddie shares how he got his start in DJing, what makes New Jersey the #1 wedding state in the country, and why trends often begin here before spreading nationwide. We dive into everything from the best venues and destination weddings (and how they differ from weddings in the States), to dos and don’ts couples should know, and wild behind-the-scenes stories — including runaway grooms.
Whether you’re planning your wedding in New Jersey or abroad, Eddie’s insights are packed with tips, lessons, and entertaining stories that every couple (and wedding professional) can learn from.
🎧 Tune in now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share so more people can find the show!
For more information about Eddie and DJs Unlimited visit.
https://www.djsunlimitednj.com
https://www.instagram.com/djsunlimitednj/
#Weddings #WeddingPlanning #DJsUnlimited #Entertainment #IHopeThisHelps #PodcastInterview #NJWeddings #DestinationWeddings #EventPlanning #podcast #djing #applepodcast
We’re still out of the office this week and keeping it SEC with another University of Florida senior, Christian Muller. A New Jersey native, Christian is preparing to graduate with a degree in Civil Engineering — but his story goes far beyond the classroom.
We talk about the transition from high school to college, how he navigated those first few years, and his advice for incoming freshmen on making new friends and finding their way on campus. Christian also shares why he chose civil engineering, what drew him to the field, and how a recent internship gave him valuable real-world experience that school alone can’t teach.
Finally, we wrap up with what he’s most excited about heading into his senior year and his plans for the future.
To find out more about Christian Muller you can follow him on social media: https://www.instagram.com/christianmuller#ihopethishelps
#UniversityOfFlorida #CivilEngineering #CollegeLife #StudentVoices #CareerGrowth #podcast #youtube #ihopethishelps #applepodcasts #entrepreneurship #podcastinterview #leadership #interview #jerseyshore #college #senior #universityofflorida
If you’ve been a day-one listener, the last name Vieira might sound familiar — our very first guest on I Hope This Helps was John Vieira. Now, his daughter, Brielle Vieira, joins us with her own story to tell.
As Brielle heads into her senior year at the University of Florida, she reflects on her college journey so far — from choosing UF, adjusting from high school to college coursework, and how getting involved in clubs and Greek life helped her form friendships that go far beyond the classroom.
We also dive into her next chapter: following in her dad’s footsteps and stepping into the world of finance. Brielle shares how she landed an internship with one of her top choices, her mindset around finding new clients, and her vision for building a career path that’s authentically her own before ever considering joining her dad’s practice.This episode is about more than school and career — it’s about ambition, independence, and the drive to create opportunities.
Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or someone reinventing your path, Brielle’s journey offers inspiration and insight into what it takes to grow with purpose.🎧 Full episode streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to support the show!
For more information about Brielle you can follow her: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briellevieira/
#IHopeThisHelps #PodcastInterview #FinanceCareers #UniversityOfFlorida #StudentLife #CareerGrowth #GenerationalLeadership #podcast #youtube #ihopethishelps #applepodcasts #interview #podcastinterview #finance #uf #outnow #advice #students #study #greeklife
From growing up in the South to getting her start in media with The Weather Channel, ABC, and Yahoo, Cheryl Darmanin has built a career defined by reinvention. After two decades in media, she shifted into residential real estate before ultimately finding her lane in commercial real estate.
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, Cheryl breaks down all things commercial real estate — from the truth behind 1031 exchanges to the myth that the industry has slowed down since COVID. She explains the key differences between commercial and residential deals, how commissions really work, and shares some wild stories from her career, including dealing with squatters in buildings. Cheryl also offers practical advice for new investors looking to break into the commercial real estate market.
Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how the world of commercial real estate really works, this conversation is full of insights, stories, and strategies you won’t want to miss.
For more information about Cheryl you can visit her at www.thedarmaningroupcre.com
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help more people find the show.
#CommercialRealEstate #RealEstateInvesting #IHopethisHelps #PodcastInterview #Entrepreneurship #1031Exchange #RealEstateTips
This week on I Hope This Helps, we take the show on the road to Seaside Heights at the Jersey Shore for our first-ever bar crawl podcast in collaboration with the Whining Blend Podcast. From iconic boardwalk stops to local hidden gems, we highlight the people and places that keep the Jersey Shore thriving.
We also tackle the misconceptions around Seaside’s reputation. While headlines and TV shows may paint a certain picture, the truth is Seaside is a family-friendly, vibrant, and resilient community. From summer traditions to local businesses, this episode is all about celebrating what makes Seaside a true Jersey Shore staple.
Whether you’re a Shore local, a frequent visitor, or just love a good community story mixed with great conversation over drinks, this episode brings the energy, laughs, and real talk.
🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
*
For more information about Whining Blends follow them on Instagram & YouTube:
https://www.instagram.com/whiningblends?igsh=MWJxdTcwanZrdmE5bQ==
https://youtu.be/sSEBI7aoACM
#JerseyShore #SeasideHeights #BarCrawl #PodcastCollab #IHopethisHelps #WhiningBlendPodcast #CommunityStories #ShoreVibes #PodcastClip #SpotifyPodcasts #ApplePodcasts #YouTubePodcasts #jerseyshore #jersey
From Hospitality to Restoration: Elson Da Silva’s Journey & Lessons on Rebuilding After Disaster
Vowing never to work in construction, Elson Da Silva began his career in the hospitality industry — but fate had other plans. Today, he’s the Director of Construction for one of the top restoration companies in New Jersey and New York, helping families rebuild their homes and lives after devastating disasters like house fires, water damage, and property loss.
In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we uncover Elson’s inspiring journey from hospitality to restoration, break down the difference between a general contractor and restoration specialist, and explore the behind-the-scenes realities of navigating insurance claims after a fire. Elson also exposes the surprising world of “fire chasers” — people who show up immediately after a blaze and will literally fight over your misfortune to get your business.
We then switch gears to discuss Elson’s creative passion project, the Whining Blend podcast, and how his wife inspired him to launch it. From podcasting tips to building an audience, we share lessons on creativity, consistency, and staying authentic in a crowded space.
Whether you’re interested in home restoration, fire recovery, small business growth, or creative entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with valuable insights, real-world stories, and inspiration for anyone facing challenges — in business or life.
To find out more about Elson and his podcast visit
www.whiningblends.com
www.youtube.com/@whiningblends
open.spotify.com/show/3PWkZDajNTMyBQagtX0BYQ?si=bfe9dcb527fa42dc
🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
And if nothing else… I Hope This Helps.
#RestorationBusiness #FireDamage #InsuranceClaims #PodcastInterview #Entrepreneurship #HomeRestoration #FireRecovery #SmallBusinessTips #WhiningBlend #NJBusiness #NYBusiness #DisasterRecovery #CreativeEntrepreneur #IHopethisHelps