A Microsoft report found that younger generations are the most likely to strive to be their own boss —76% of Gen Z and millennials identify that as a goal. The freedom and flexibility it offers provide a very different lifestyle from working 9-5. So the Great Resignation that was motivated by COVID is no surprise. More than 47 million Americans voluntarily quit their jobs. Around this time in late 2019, on the threshold of the pandemic, Diego Torres-Palma and Nick Conrad came up with the idea to start a podcast that inspires and educates entrepreneurs.
The podcast Startup to Storefront brings the stories of companies and individuals that have taken the risk of going out on their own to build the future with innovative and forward-thinking ideas. Focusing on leaders and innovators who work harder and smarter, the podcast gives the inside track into what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Diego brings experience and expertise to each show. He is a real estate developer with Ventana Ventures and an angel investor known to invest in some of the guests on the show. Nick owns his own production company – Blue Crab Productions. The hosts interview entrepreneurs and other success stories that have built a business or a brand to give the audience insight and a roadmap that will motivate more entrepreneurs by simply listening to the podcast. “The great thing about podcasts is that you maximize your time — an important skill for any entrepreneur. You can still be productive while listening and you are learning something at the same time that will get you closer to financial independence,” said Diego. The guests showcase their stories, how they are thriving, where they failed, and what they learned, all valuable information to someone just starting a business or thinking about starting one.
Diego brings his expertise and experience to the podcast – he has several exciting projects throughout Los Angeles. His real estate projects focus on bringing the community together by recognizing and respecting the neighborhood that he develops to ensure it’s done with support and with ultimate respect for the history and culture of a neighborhood. He’s known for his breweries and is currently working on a new marketplace in downtown LA. Los Angles locals may recognize one of his properties on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood – a big yellow bus parked inside the storefront. This story is a literal example of Startup To Storefront. Diego helped Farm Cup coffee when COVID hit, and their ability to make money went to zero (no crowds, no outings). They approached him to buy the truck; instead, he put it permanently inside the building and restored their business, which is now an iconic sight in West Hollywood. And, behind the big yellow truck is fittingly the Startup To Storefront podcast studio.
The podcast has had interesting guests that are motivational and inspirational and give valuable insight into starting your own business. Some guests include Carla Esparza, a two-time UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion. Michael Cherman gave listeners insight into creating his own clothing line and has collaborated with brands such as Lacoste and the NBA. The founder of Lettuce Grow, Jacob Pechenik, talked about how he started his successful self-watering farm stands. Victor Villa of Villas Tacos – voted best tacos in LA two years in a row came on the show to talk about how throwing house parties turned into a successful taco company. There are many other stories of startups that give you first-hand knowledge of best practices and lessons learned.
When asked about the purpose of this podcast, Nick explained that they want to encourage people to start their own businesses, and if that can’t be done now, why not arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can in the meantime – that’s the purpose of this podcast.
On Apple Podcasts, The show has more than 100 episodes and counting. The Startup To Storefront podcast is active and available on several platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. The podcast also has a newsletter that anyone can subscribe to and stay informed and updated.
Startup To Storefront is committed to building a community that supports current entrepreneurs and inspires future ones. So put on those Air Pods and have a listen. You might be inspired to follow your dreams, and if not, at least you got all the laundry folded!
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