Positive Traction Podcast with Coach Henry

Episode #38: In this episode of Positive Traction Podcast, Henry Castro welcomes Jeremiah Maestre after over a decade apart. They delve into Jeremiah's journey from starting in boxing and MMA to building a vibrant career as a coach and entrepreneur. Jeremiah shares his path from Northern to Southern California, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including moving to New York and eventually Orange County. They discuss his overcoming of challenges, the transition to digital coaching during the pandemic, and the importance of faith, discipline, and self-belief. Jeremiah also speaks about his new ventures, including a running journey and launching a new boxing brand, Legacy, in 2025. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:12 Reconnecting After a Decade 00:18 Jeremiah's Journey into Combat Sports 01:02 The Early Days of Training 04:00 Finding Fulfillment in Coaching 07:33 Building a Business in Orange County 15:45 Taking a Leap of Faith to New York 19:01 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success 21:49 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Aspirations 24:19 Reflecting on Past Mistakes and Growth 24:51 Career Breakthroughs and Achievements 25:54 Impact of COVID-19 and Digital Pivot 26:51 Personal Growth and Adaptability 30:10 Maintaining a Healthy Relationship 30:58 Struggles with Identity and Mental Health 34:57 Rediscovering Purpose Through Running 42:10 Current Endeavors and Future Plans 45:32 Commitment to Personal Challenges   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode 37: In this episode of Positive Traction, Henry interviews Carlos, who shares his turbulent yet inspiring life story. Carlos opens up about his seemingly normal childhood that drastically changed when his father left the family, leading him into a life of homelessness, gang involvement, and eventual imprisonment. He discusses his transformation while in solitary confinement, aided by unexpected acts of kindness and faith. Upon his release, Carlos faced numerous obstacles but found his purpose in helping others through writing, speaking engagements, and prison outreach programs. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, forgiveness, and the impact of second chances.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:48 Carlos's Early Life and Family Struggles 02:15 Descent into Crime and Incarceration 03:28 Life in Prison and Becoming a Shot Caller 04:27 Solitary Confinement and Transformation 07:56 Forgiveness and Rebuilding Relationships 12:59 Challenges After Release 17:07 Finding Hope and Purpose 25:03 The Power of One Person 26:25 Surviving Solitary Confinement 28:26 Choosing Not to Retaliate 29:13 Transforming Lives in Prison 32:16 Rebuilding Life After Prison 34:46 Finding Purpose and Giving Back 40:08 The Turning Point: Meeting Peter Meyerhoff 43:30 Current Endeavors and Future Goals   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #36:  The Essential Discomfort for Personal Growth   Description: In this mini bonus episode of the Positive Traction podcast, Coach Henry Castro and Daniel Brown discuss the concept of discomfort and its importance in personal growth. They explore how embracing discomfort can lead to resilience, discipline, and continuous improvement in various aspects of life. Daniel shares practical examples from his own life, including his morning routine and the benefits of seeking challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need to step out of comfort zones to achieve long-term rewards and personal development.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Discomfort 05:56 Discipline and Morning Routines 12:49 The Journey of Continuous Improvement Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #35: In this episode of the Positive Traction Podcast, Coach Henry welcomes his long-time friend Chris, who shares his decade-long journey in the banking industry and how he has managed to stay grounded while navigating the ups and downs of his career. The discussion focuses on the importance of passion, dealing with significant hindrances, maintaining humility, and staying hungry for success. Chris delves into personal anecdotes, including challenging moments like leaving a secure job and facing institutional crises. The conversation also touches on balancing family life, finding joy in small moments, and offering life advice for younger generations. Chris's perspective provides valuable insights into resilience, authenticity, and the importance of living in the present. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking question from Chris on the legacy one wishes to leave behind, prompting Henry to share his own reflections on living a life of purpose and integrity. Chapters:  00:44 Chris's Background in Banking 02:40 Challenges in the Banking Industry 06:05 Finding Passion and Overcoming Hindrances 08:42 The Importance of Hunger and Drive 12:49 Staying Humble in a High-Stakes World 14:11 Personal and Professional Setbacks 21:02 Marriage and Family Insights 23:26 Building a Strong Foundation 26:07 Overcoming Financial Struggles 27:48 Future Goals and Reflections 30:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #34: In this episode of Positive Traction, Coach Henry interviews Lena Avila, the General Manager of Mastro's in Thousand Oaks. Lena shares her compelling journey from growing up in Brooklyn and Queens, New York, facing numerous challenges and hardships, to becoming a leading female figure in the restaurant industry. She discusses her transition from a career in law to culinary arts, her perseverance through personal adversity, and her rise through the ranks at Mastro's. Lena's story highlights the importance of persistence, self-belief, and the support from a positive work culture. Her conversation with Coach Henry showcases her dedication, work ethic, and the inspirations she draws from her past experiences.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:29 Lena's Background and Career Beginnings 03:09 A Life-Changing Event 04:59 Pursuing Culinary Dreams 06:19 Climbing the Culinary Ladder 12:10 Joining Mastro's and Career Growth 14:52 Facing Challenges in Business 16:40 Reconnecting with an Old Flame 17:19 A New Opportunity in California 19:24 Rising Through the Ranks 20:53 Reflecting on Humble Beginnings 23:45 Staying Humble and Hungry 28:34 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #33: In this conversation, Coach Henry Castro and Eric Morris discuss the journey of leadership within the church, focusing on personal growth, overcoming challenges, and the importance of authenticity. Eric shares his experiences of leading Victory City Church during the pandemic, the struggles of self-doubt, and the significance of having a supportive partner. The dialogue emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace their unique voices and perspectives while navigating the complexities of faith and community. In this conversation, Coach Henry Castro and Eric Morris explore the intersection of faith, family, and leadership. They discuss the importance of being present for one's children, the challenges of parenting across different age groups, and the significance of authenticity in fundraising efforts. The dialogue also delves into the dynamics of a successful marriage, emphasizing the roles of listening and leading with empathy. Ultimately, they reflect on how to discern between good opportunities and those that align with God's purpose. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Eric Morris 04:38 Navigating Challenges in Leadership 15:01 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Growth 20:31 Finding Your Unique Voice in Leadership 23:20 The Role of Family in Leadership 24:41 Stepping Out in Faith 26:35 Authenticity in Fundraising 28:58 The Importance of Transparency 30:52 Navigating Parenting Challenges 32:37 Balancing Parenting Styles 35:03 The Impact of a Father's Presence 37:59 Keys to a Successful Marriage 40:33 Finding God's Purpose in Opportunities   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #32: In this episode of Positive Traction with Coach Henry, Henry welcomes long-time friend Sabrina, also known as Sab from Hot Girl Financial. Sabrina shares her journey in the financial services industry and explains her mission to empower women by promoting financial literacy and independence. She discusses her initiatives, like teaching intentional spending over traditional budgeting to remove the negative connotation around financial management. Sabrina also emphasizes the significance of women understanding and managing their finances, especially in situations like divorce or the death of a spouse. Coach Henry and Sabrina discuss how small consistent steps in financial education can have a significant impact, and Sabrina shares her vision for Hot Girl Financial's future growth and influence. The episode is filled with practical tips, empowering messages, and discussions on breaking away from the traditional 'finance bro' culture to make finance more accessible and enjoyable for women.   Timestamps 01:27 Sabrina's Background and Mission 02:46 Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy 05:42 Intentional Spending Explained 13:31 Navigating the Finance Bro Culture 19:34 Future Goals and Reflections 20:12 Encouragement and Side Hustles 20:38 Stepping into Entrepreneurship 23:24 Consistency in Finance and Life 25:34 Empowering Women in Finance 26:12 Intentional Spending and Financial Literacy 33:48 Lessons from Failure and Growth 35:53 Final Thoughts and Future Plans   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #31: In this episode of the Positive Traction Podcast, Coach Henry Castro interviews Daniel McElroy, an entrepreneur who shares his journey from the film industry to owning multiple Budget Blinds franchises. Daniel discusses the life lessons learned from his experiences in LA, the shift from materialism to valuing meaningful experiences, and the importance of being present with family. He also addresses the challenges of managing a diverse team and the support he receives from his therapist and business coach. In this conversation, Daniel shares his journey as a young entrepreneur navigating the complexities of running a business while being a single dad. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of managing diverse personalities in his team, and the joy of celebrating successes with his employees. Daniel emphasizes the need for work-life balance, particularly in being present for his daughter, and reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences as a father. The conversation also touches on the significance of maintaining a positive relationship with his ex-wife for the sake of their child, setting the stage for deeper discussions in future episodes.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Daniel McElroy 02:15 Daniel's Journey to Entrepreneurship 06:41 Life Lessons from LA's Glamour 10:34 The Shift from Materialism to Meaning 15:38 Creating Lasting Memories with Family 19:10 Building a Business: Budget Blinds Experience 21:18 Navigating Employee Dynamics and Challenges 27:32 Celebrating Wins and Team Dynamics 31:30 Balancing Fatherhood and Entrepreneurship 40:35 Reflections on Fatherhood and Personal Growth   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #30: In this episode of the Positive Traction Podcast, Coach Henry Castro interviews Yaritza Perez, the owner of Impact Building. Yaritza shares her journey from wanting to be a nurse to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the construction industry. She discusses the challenges of working with family, particularly her father, and how she navigated those dynamics to grow her business. Yaritza also talks about balancing her busy family life with her entrepreneurial endeavors, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and efficiency. She outlines her future goals for Impact Building, aiming to provide not just construction services but also business resources for the Hispanic community. In this conversation, Yaritza Perez discusses the transformative impact of community engagement in the construction industry, particularly among Hispanic subcontractors. She shares her personal journey of overcoming age-related challenges in a male-dominated field and emphasizes the importance of networking and maintaining consistent business activity. Yaritza also highlights the influence of family on her business motivations and the strategies she employs for efficient management. The discussion culminates in the significance of branding and the necessity of asking for help in business.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Yaritza Perez 01:01 Journey into Construction and Entrepreneurship 07:54 Navigating Family Dynamics in Business 11:59 Balancing Family Life and Business 17:27 Mindfulness and Efficiency in Business 19:37 Future Goals for Impact Building 22:32 Creating Impact Through Community Engagement 25:18 Overcoming Age Barriers in Construction 27:35 Challenges in General Contracting 30:28 The Influence of Family on Business 35:44 Strategies for Efficient Business Management 40:14 The Importance of Branding and Networking   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!  

Episode #29: In this episode of The Positive Traction Podcast, Coach Henry Castro interviews Jeffrey Whitespeare, an entrepreneur and investor. They discuss Jeffrey's journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a successful real estate professional. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, faith, and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. Jeffrey shares personal hardships, including the loss of family members, and how these experiences shaped his outlook on life and business. The episode emphasizes the significance of gratitude, legacy, and using one's platform to inspire and uplift others. Timestamps: 02:27 The Journey of an Entrepreneur 06:31 Overcoming Hardships and Building Resilience 14:47 Managing Success and Financial Growth 21:23 Marrying Business with Faith 29:27 Using Influence for Good 36:48 Navigating Personal Loss and Growth 46:45 Legacy and Future Aspirations Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #28: Brittany Moore, CEO of Be More Organizer, shares her journey from a difficult childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth and resilience in overcoming challenges. Moore's passion for creating organized and efficient environments stems from her own experiences with an unstable upbringing. She highlights the role of community in supporting personal and professional growth. Moore also discusses the power of faith and trusting in God's plan. In this conversation, Brittany B. Moore and Coach Henry discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with bold and confident people who push you to be your best. Brittany shares her experience of working long hours and being in isolation for the past two years, focusing on her work and being a single mom. They emphasize the importance of community and having someone to lean on during challenging times. They also discuss the seasons of life and the value of self-awareness in understanding the purpose of isolation. They talk about the challenges of being a leader and the need for rest and balance. They also touch on the topic of relationships and the importance of being cautious and aware of red flags. Brittany shares her perspective on grief and the process of living with it rather than getting over it. They conclude by discussing the importance of knowing who you are and what you want, and using pain and hardship as fuel to move forward. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:26 Finding Purpose in Adversity 03:29 Building Authority Through Personal Experience 08:04 Resilience and Personal Growth 12:29 Trusting in God's Plan 19:18 Creating Organized and Efficient Environments 25:24 The Role of Community in Growth 26:01 Surrounding Yourself with Bold and Confident People 29:23 The Importance of Community and Having Someone to Lean On 30:48 The Challenges of Being a Leader and the Need for Rest and Balance 35:24 Being Cautious and Aware in Relationships 38:27 Living with Grief and Using Pain as Fuel 45:39 Knowing Yourself and Staying Focused   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #27: In this episode of Positive Traction with Coach Henry, he interviews Aundrea Dudik, an associate broker and realtor at Vista Real Estate. Aundrea shares her journey from being a therapist to becoming an entrepreneur in the real estate industry. She talks about the challenges she faced, the importance of aligning with her values, and the role of discipline and focus in her success. Aundrea emphasizes the need to constantly evaluate and reflect on one's values to stay true to oneself. In this conversation, Coach Henry and Aundrea Dudik discuss the importance of values and how they shape our lives. Aundrea shares her personal journey of finding her values and how they have guided her through challenging times. They emphasize the need to be grateful and to rely on others for support. The conversation also touches on the importance of staying true to oneself and not doubting one's decisions. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of values in creating a fulfilling and balanced life. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 03:15 Aundrea's Background and Transition to Real Estate 06:18 Transitioning from Therapy to Entrepreneurship 09:23 Overcoming Challenges in the Early Years 13:15 The Importance of Values in Decision Making 18:02 Building a Successful Real Estate Career 21:00 The Role of Values in Aundrea's Journey 23:29 The Foundation of Values and Skills 25:26 Building a Foundation on Values 32:22 Resilience and Personal Growth 39:37 Using Values as a Compass for Decision-Making and Balance   Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #26: Carlos Vazquez, mindset coach and author of How to Battle, shares his inspiring story of transformation after serving a 17-year prison sentence. In solitary confinement, Carlos contemplated ending his life but found hope and purpose through a chaplain who believed in him. He dedicated three years to self-improvement, reading over 150 books and developing a framework of five key principles: Purpose, Routine, Inspiration, Confidence, and Education. Carlos used these principles to teach and inspire others in prison, helping them transform their lives. Since his release, Carlos has continued to make a positive impact and is grateful for the opportunity to change lives. Carlos Vasquez shares his journey of personal growth and transformation after spending 17 years in prison. He talks about the importance of gratitude and faith in his life and how it has helped him overcome challenges. Carlos also discusses his new book, which is inspired by the men he encountered in prison and the common rules he learned from them. He explains how he adapts his message to different audiences, from foster homes to corporate events, and emphasizes the power of storytelling in conveying deeper meaning and lessons. Carlos shares his belief in the power of exponential growth and the 1% principle, and how it has transformed his life. He also talks about his mission to leave people better than he found them and the various ways he is making a difference through his coaching programs, workshops, and partnerships with organizations like Youth Champions. Timestamps: 00:00 Carlos Vazquez's Inspiring Journey: From Solitary Confinement to Transformation 08:31 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Hope: The Power of Purpose 11:05 Creating a Routine for Personal Growth and Transformation 15:32 Finding Inspiration in Books, People, and Life Experiences 17:46 Building Confidence and Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone 19:43 The Most Challenging and Rewarding Parts of Carlos Vazquez's Journey 23:14 Warrior in the Garden: Embracing the Warrior Mindset in Any Situation 25:04 Adapting to Life Outside of Prison 29:13 The Importance of Storytelling 34:09 Exponential Growth and the 1% Principle 39:23 Leaving a Lasting Impact Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #25: Brandon Peacock, a survivor of a drive-by shooting, shares his journey of resilience and finding purpose after the traumatic event. He discusses how his mindset and upbringing helped him overcome the challenges and turn his experience into a positive force for change. Brandon emphasizes the importance of taking accountability, facing fears, and reframing difficult situations. He believes that everyone has the potential to be resilient and overcome adversity with the right guidance and mindset. Brandon Peacock shares his journey of resilience and recovery after being shot in both legs. He emphasizes the importance of applying knowledge and taking action in order to overcome challenges. Inspired by his own experience, Brandon started the not-for-profit organization Hit the Ground Running, which provides trauma survivors with access to top-notch therapists and resources for recovery. He shares the story of funding stem cell therapy for a spinal cord injury patient and highlights the importance of living a life of servitude and helping others. Brandon encourages listeners to take action and make a difference in the world. Takeaways Resilience is a mindset that can be developed through accountability and facing fears. Reframing difficult situations and finding purpose can help turn adversity into a positive force for change. Taking ownership of one's life and not playing the victim role is crucial for personal growth and resilience. Exposure therapy and pushing oneself outside of their comfort zone can help build resilience and overcome fears. Everyone has the potential to be resilient and overcome adversity with the right mindset and guidance. Resilience is about applying knowledge and taking action. Hit the Ground Running is a not-for-profit organization that provides trauma survivors with access to top-notch therapists and resources for recovery. Funding stem cell therapy can give trauma survivors a chance at recovery they may not have otherwise had. Living a life of servitude and helping others is a key to happiness and personal growth. Taking action and making a difference in the world is important.   Chapters 00:00Introduction to Brandon Peacock 02:12Brandon's Life Before the Shooting 07:13The Turning Point: Finding Purpose in Adversity 13:09Facing Fears and Overcoming Challenges 19:02The Importance of Accountability and Reframing 21:21Exposure Therapy and Building Resilience 23:17Resilience for All: The Potential Within 26:07Starting Hit the Ground Running 28:01Access to Top-Notch Care 34:43Funding Stem Cell Therapy 36:38Living a Life of Servitude 39:28Being Your Best 100% 45:29Taking Action and Making a Difference Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!

Episode #24: What does it take to balance the joys and challenges of parenthood, career shifts, and personal growth? This week on Positive Traction Podcast, we welcome back Zach and Cassidy, who shares the heartwarming milestone of his daughter Amari nearing her first birthday, and exciting updates on his latest projects at Brownstone. Alongside Zach, Cassidy brings her thrilling news of expecting her first baby and delves into her transition to a full-time entrepreneurial career, offering insights into navigating life's unexpected journeys. Listen as we explore the essential elements of intention and application in both business and personal relationships. Cassidy Anna candidly discusses moving across the country, rebuilding her career, and the transformative journey of motherhood amidst unexpected life changes. Together, we emphasize the importance of communication, respect, and the fulfillment found in serving others. Through their stories, Zach and Cassidy highlight how embracing life's challenges can foster profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of faith and purpose. The episode also touches on the significance of male companionship and mentorship in personal growth, with Zach sharing a poignant story about gratitude and resilience learned from a life-changing moment. We reflect on maintaining a positive outlook during hardships, the balance of acknowledging emotions without letting them define us, and the importance of family dynamics and faith perspectives. Join us for a heartfelt discussion filled with practical advice, inspiring reflections, and the power of optimism in navigating life's beautiful yet unexpected journeys.    Timestamps: (00:00) Life Updates and Exciting News (11:14) The Path of Service and Growth (24:55) Journeying Through Motherhood and Change (37:02) Embracing Hard Lessons and Growth (40:58) Navigating Hardship and Optimism (45:00) Navigating Feelings and Life Perspectives (48:53) Family Relationships and Faith Perspectives Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @positivetractionpodcast and WATCH us on YouTube!