“Straight Talk” with Dj Doc

 BEHIND THE BOTTLE – SOCAL COCKTAIL & SPIRITS FEST 2026!Join Host Thomas Howard aka DJ Doc and Co-Host Andre Hobbs for another exciting edition of Behind The Bottle, a featured segment on the Straight Talk with DJ Doc Podcast Platform, as we take you inside the SoCal Cocktail & Spirits Fest 2026, held at the beautiful Gillette House in Irvine, California!During this exciting event, we had the opportunity to sit down with SIP Awards Founder and CEO Pouya "Paul" Hashemi along with several award-winning spirits brand owners and entrepreneurs, hearing firsthand about their journeys, the inspiration behind their brands, the craftsmanship involved in creating their spirits, and what makes their products stand out in the competitive spirits industry.Fast Moving Consumer Goods Owner, Sandro Piancone, was one of the sponsors that made sure these spirit owners had the opportunity to be branded nationally.Attendees enjoyed an engaging atmosphere celebrating the world of cocktails and premium spirits, with opportunities to discover unique brands, experience tastings, connect directly with industry professionals, and learn about the creativity and passion behind the bottle.Behind The Bottle is more than just a conversation about spirits. It's about the people, the passion, the business, and the stories that bring each bottle to life!Host / Producer Thomas Howard: https://poplme.co/djdocsd/share Co-Host Andre Hobbs: http://www.andrehobbs.com Sponsor Fast Moving Consumer Goods Sandro Piancone: fmcgstock.comGuests:SIP Awards Paul Hashemi & Artika Negahdar: Sipawards.comWaterloo Gin Company Jean Marie Sperling: waterloogincompany.com Status Wines Rob Tangipa: status wines.comWooler Brands Amy Wooler: woolerbrands.usMatiari Tequila Dave Welch: sansws.comSan Hagen Tequila Stine Kidemose Jensen: sanhagen.comNafta Distributors Nuri Alajl: naftadist.comCasa Ajurra Bardia Vahidi PhD: casaAjurra.comHigh Mountain Spirits Jeffrey Su: highmountainspirits.comVieroma Cacao Liquer Maria Jose Rojas / Kasha Touloei: vieroma.comDrunken Bean Coffee Whiskey Claudia Hoyser: centerfirespirits.comBushwood Spirits Matt Bulle: bushwood.com

In this episode, Thomas & Dr. Carlos Sanchez, discuss his journey from cardiology to wellness entrepreneurship, emphasizing prevention and holistic health strategies to improve quality of life.Key TopicsThe path to becoming a cardiologist and interventional specialistThe importance of early prevention in cardiovascular healthTechnological advances in minimally invasive heart proceduresHolistic approaches to wellness and lifestyle medicineThe role of supplements and functional beverages in healthCreating a wellness-first energy drink called KalmaraStrategies for impacting health before disease developsThe connection between gut health, nutrition, and heart healthThe importance of sleep, exercise, and stress managementEntrepreneurship in health and wellness Takeaways:Early intervention and prevention can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.Technological advances allow for minimally invasive procedures that save lives and improve recovery.Holistic health strategies, including nutrition, sleep, and stress management, are crucial for long-term wellness.Creating health-focused products like supplements and energy drinks can support preventive care.Education and ownership of wellness are key to changing health outcomes.Guest Dr. Carlos Sanchez: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlossanchez1?obrf=NmN3azFvM2JtNmRoSponsor R.O.C. Media: https://www.instagram.com/r.o.c._media?igsh=MWg4N3hqcjhsaTh4aQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Host / Producer Thomas Howard: https://poplme.co/djdocsd/share

Thomas speaks with Author Pearl Howie who shares her inspiring journey from growing up in England to becoming a prolific author and traveler. She discusses overcoming fears of success, the impact of her childhood environment, and her unique approach to living life fully.Key Topics:Pearl Howie's childhood in Epsom and its influenceThe five types of fear of success and how to overcome themThe role of writing as therapy and self-discoveryTravel as a tool for healing and growthImpact of childhood environment on self-perceptionPearl's experience with survivor guilt and griefThe importance of authenticity and living fullyPearl's books and her Camino de la Luna seriesThe significance of embracing success and overcoming fearGuest Pearl Howie: pearlhowie.com Host / Producer Thomas Howard: https://poplme.co/djdocsd/share

summaryIn this episode, Thomas Howard aka DJ Doc interviews Sontrell Hawkins-Woods about surrogacy, her personal journey, and how she's helping others navigate the process. They discuss the importance of informed decision-making, ethical practices, and building strong relationships in surrogacy.Key Topics:Surrogacy journey and personal experienceHow to find and select a surrogateLegal and ethical considerations in surrogacyBuilding strong relationships between intended parents and surrogatesUnderstanding the costs and insurance coverage for surrogacyThe importance of psychological evaluations in surrogacyMisconceptions about surrogacy in the black communityLegislation affecting fertility treatments in CaliforniaAdvice for those considering surrogacyThe role of support systems and communicationGuest: Sontrell Hawkins-Woods: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sontrell-hawkins-woodsSponsor Royal Serene: https://www.instagram.com/tasha.da.esthi?psln=OHN6enFyZmsxeDk0Host / Producer Thomas Howard: https://poplme.co/djdocsd/share

In this episode, Sonya Bellamy Jones shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a wellness advocate, dance instructor, and community leader. She discusses the followingHer childhood and early independenceInspiration from Debbie Allen and fameHer work in community and educationThe mission of Ahead Movements IncorporatedDance as a tool for healing and confidenceOvercoming physical trauma and living with a bullet in her lungThe importance of meeting people where they are in dance and wellnessHer vision for a future dance and wellness facilityThe role of dance in stress relief and emotional healthHer experience as a moderator and event hostGuest Sonya Bellamy Jones: https://www.instagram.com/ahead_movements?srtk=ZWYyNndpOHIzazdiSponsor Royal Serene: https://www.instagram.com/tasha.da.esthi?obrf=OHN6enFyZmsxeDk0Host / Producer Thomas Howard: https://poplme.co/djdocsd/share