Small Talk! With Alec Cuenca - Motivation & Mindset Podcast

Steve Sy is one of the most respected names in Philippine e-commerce today. But his success wasn’t built on shortcuts, hype, or overnight wins.In this episode, Steve breaks down why chasing profit alone can actually destroy a business, how most entrepreneurs scale before they’re ready, and why capacity, systems, and purpose matter more than opportunity.He opens up about being ₱32,000,000 in debt at 28, spending 12 years paying it all back, and rebuilding from zero before creating a billion-peso e-commerce company. Along the way, he shares the lessons that only come from long-term pressure, painful mistakes, and staying faithful to the process when quitting feels easier.This conversation goes beyond tactics. It’s about patience in a world obsessed with speed, faith in seasons of uncertainty, and building businesses that last.If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or business owner who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or tempted to rush growth.. this episode will challenge how you think about success.In this episode, we talk about:- Why profit without purpose can break a business- The real reason most companies fail when they scale- The bamboo tree principle and long-term growth- Paying off massive debt without shortcuts- Building capacity before chasing opportunity- Faith, resilience, and responsibility in business- Why success takes years, not monthsIf this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second part with Carlo Ople, we go beyond business success and talk about purpose, advocacy, faith, and the responsibility that comes with influence.Carlo shares why real impact doesn’t always require running for office.. and how lobbying, content, and entrepreneurship can be powerful tools for national change. From co-founding Creators Against Corruption to building businesses that create jobs and empower creators, this conversation is about using your platform for something bigger than yourself.This episode is especially for anyone asking:“What am I building.. and why does it matter?”In this conversation, we talk about:• Why advocacy and policy work can exist without personal gain or political ambition• How content creation can create livelihoods and social impact• The mindset of a relentless optimist and why growth never really ends• Building teams and scaling impact in the creator economy• The importance of having people who balance your strengths.. not just agree with you• Why defining your “why” is the key to focus and long-term clarity• How trying new environments helps you discover your purpose• Advice for young professionals about optimism, failure, and resilience• Carlo’s journey from college dropout to corporate executive and entrepreneur• How faith and community became his anchor through growth and pressureSmall conversations.. huge impact.If this episode helped you reflect, share it with someone who needs clarity today.. and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations like this.Check out Carlo Ople's YouTube channel  @CarloOple  ! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carlo Ople has built one of the most influential careers in the Philippine digital space.. but his journey didn’t start with success. It started in an internet cafe, a life-or-death moment, and a decision that changed everything.In this episode, Carlo opens up about the night he was held at gunpoint, why he spent 18 years building his business after working 9–5, and how he finally walked away from corporate life to build an empire. He shares his principles, the mistakes he made along the way, and what creators and entrepreneurs need to understand if they want to survive in 2026 and beyond.This is a conversation about resilience, discipline, fear, and the cost of building something meaningful. If you’ve ever thought about starting a business, leaving your job, or becoming a creator.. this episode will challenge you.In this episode we discuss:The near-death moment that changed his entire lifeBuilding a side hustle for 18 yearsWhy he left corporate despite having a high-paying roleThe 7 to 1 principle and the power of consistencyWhy most people stay stuck in jobs they hateHow to prepare for leaving corporate safelyWhy digital is our generation’s biggest advantageThe future of the creator economyAffiliate marketing, TikTok Shop, and emerging income streamsThe fear of politics, corruption, and the responsibility of creatorsLosing clients, losing people, and how to deal with painful setbacksIdentity, burnout, and learning to detachWhat happiness and success really meanIf you found this meaningful, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into why formal education on business management, working with brands, and understanding contracts is critical for your success. You might be a content creator, but without this knowledge, you're setting yourself up for failure.Icy shares his insights on the creator economy, how data, AI, and community building will shape the future, and why nurturing a loyal community is more important than just gaining followers. If you’re serious about growing your creator business, you’ll want to hear this.In this episode, you'll learn:The missing piece creators need to understand to succeed in business.Why data and AI are crucial for the next wave of creators.How building a genuine community will outperform simply chasing followers.Practical advice on how to approach business partnerships and manage your brand collaborations.It’s time to stop guessing and start building with purpose. Watch now to learn what you need to know to stay ahead in 2026.Let me know in the comments: What’s been your biggest challenge in building your creator business? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Alec sits down with IC Mendoza, a digital marketing entrepreneur and the co-founder of InCircle Inc., the leading talent management agency in the Philippines. IC shares his incredible journey from showbiz to entrepreneurship, offering insights into building a successful business, staying ahead in the influencer world, and finding success through authentic connections.What you’ll learn in this episode:How to build an effective network without a huge one to start with.The red flags to watch out for when trying to grow your network.IC's journey from being a talk show host to transitioning into the influencer marketing world.The importance of adaptability, innovation, and staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry.IC's personal story of turning heartbreak into a catalyst for entrepreneurial success.How social capital and family connections played a role in his rise.This episode is packed with valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, content creators, and anyone looking to grow their influence and network.If you’re ready to take your career and network to the next level, don’t miss out on this conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this new episode, Rajiv Talreja breaks down the simple, obvious, and painfully common mistake that quietly destroys most businesses.It’s not the economy.It’s not the competition.It’s not even the lack of skill.It’s the business owner.Rajiv explains why many entrepreneurs unknowingly sabotage their own success—by hiring the wrong people, avoiding uncomfortable decisions, and leading without clarity. He also reveals why growth always comes with a cost, why not everyone can grow with you, and how your identity as a leader shapes the entire culture of your company.If you’re a business owner, a team leader, or someone dreaming of starting a business someday, this episode will open your eyes to the one shift that could save your business before it collapses.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @rajivtalreja Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this new episode with Alec, Rajiv breaks down the painful truth behind why so many aspiring entrepreneurs never make it past the first stage. Rajiv shares how he became an “entrepreneur by force, not by choice,” and why early praise and empty encouragement almost destroyed his career. Instead of shortcuts and motivational hype, he reveals the real foundations every business owner needs — clarity, leadership, systems, and the willingness to outgrow who you used to be.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated because your business doesn’t seem to grow no matter how hard you work, Rajiv explains the precise blind spots holding most founders back. From mistaking passion for a plan, to building a job instead of a real business, to chasing success before building competence — this episode exposes the patterns that quietly kill 9 out of 10 startups.This conversation will challenge your assumptions, confront your excuses, and push you to finally evolve into the entrepreneur your future needs.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @rajivtalreja Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Small Talk, we break down 30 years of financial lessons into a clear, practical, and honest conversation. No jargon. No hype. Just real wisdom you can apply today.This episode goes beyond earning and saving — it’s about understanding how money affects identity, family, confidence, and the way you move through life. We talk about the mistakes most people don’t realize they’re making, how to build systems that protect your future, and why stability is more important than speed.If you’ve ever felt behind financially, unsure of where to start, or overwhelmed by the pressure to “have it all figured out,” this episode is made for you. You don’t need to be perfect — you just need to begin.Start with what you have. Do what you can. Your future self will thank you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this follow-up episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, Nicole Alba opens up about her journey toward financial independence — and the truth behind growing up privileged yet wanting to build something on her own.From her early years watching her parents work tirelessly to send her and her siblings to school, to realizing how money shapes our choices, Nicole shares a side of success that’s often left unspoken. She reflects on privilege, responsibility, and what it truly means to earn your own freedom.Whether you’re navigating your 20s, chasing financial stability, or learning to build your own foundation — this conversation will remind you that your relationship with money will always reflect your relationship with yourself.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @alba.nicoleee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Small Talk episode, Nicole Alba opens up about what truly happens behind the camera — the burnout, the silence, and the courage it takes to start again. Known for her calm yet insightful voice in the world of personal finance, Nicole reveals what pushed her to take a break at the height of her success, and what it really means to rebuild with intention.She talks about the pressure of always having answers, the fear of making the wrong decision, and how learning to pause became her biggest act of maturity. This episode isn’t just about finance or content creation — it’s about rediscovering yourself when your passion starts to fade, and finding your voice again, even when it scares you.If you’ve ever felt burnt out, lost your spark, or feared starting over, this conversation will remind you: it’s okay to begin again, even if you have to do it scared.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @alba.nicoleee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Small Talk episode, Cho Lim returns to share the hardest season of his life—a moment when life took away his control and forced him to grow. After years of chasing success and avoiding responsibility, he hit a breaking point that didn’t just hurt him… it changed him.Cho opens up about the identity crisis he hid, the pain he tried to outrun, and the shift from ego to surrender. He reveals the truth about growth: sometimes you don’t choose it—life forces it. From fatherhood to faith, maturity to mindset, he shares how real transformation begins when you finally let go.If you’ve ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or at the edge of yourself, this episode will remind you: rock bottom can be the turning point.When life forces you to change, it might be saving you.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @cholimofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Small Talk, Alec Cuenca sits down with Cho Lim: whose story is not about instant success, but about wasted years, hidden pain, and the one moment that forced him to finally change. Before becoming one of the most influential coaches in the country, Cho spent years drifting with no direction: stuck in comfort, vices, parties, and the belief that “there’s still time.” But everything shifted when he became a father. The guilt, the pressure, and the responsibility woke him up, and ignited a transformation that would lead him to rebuild his life, pursue growth with intensity, and eventually impact thousands through purpose-driven work.If you’ve ever felt lost, behind, or ashamed of where you are in life, Cho’s story will show you that rock bottom can become the foundation for your greatest breakthrough.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @cholimofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec's back with Peng Mendoza to reveal a hard truth about high achievers: the more you try to control everything, the more anxious, restless, and unhappy you become.Peng opens up about the seasons when she was doing everything “right”: working hard, hitting goals, serving people. But yet still feeling empty and disconnected on the inside. She shares how the pressure to force outcomes and hold everything together led to burnout, and how learning to surrender, trust the process, and align with God’s timing brought her the peace and clarity she had been chasing for years. This conversation explores the unseen battles behind success, the difference between striving and aligning, and why real growth often begins the moment you let go. If you’ve ever felt tired of pushing, afraid to slow down, or stuck even while moving forward, this episode will change the way you look at success, peace, and control, and remind you that sometimes, surrender is the most powerful strategy of all.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @pengymendoza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Small Talk, Alec Cuenca sits down with Peng Mendoza to expose a hard truth about success: you can be moving up in life… and still feel empty inside.Peng opens up about chasing money, achievements, and recognition, only to realize that progress without purpose leads to burnout. She shares the moments when “winning” didn’t feel like winning, the pressure of always having to prove herself, and the turning point when she realized that real success is not measured by income, but by impact. From desire and discipline to purpose and peace, Peng reveals how she rebuilt her life from chasing success… to living with meaning.If you’ve ever achieved something and still felt lost, this episode will hit home for you.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @pengymendoza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down again with Tina Sioson to explore what modern leadership really looks like — and why the old ways no longer work.From understanding Gen Z and navigating burnout, to finding the balance between control and freedom, Tina shares the lessons that today’s leaders can’t afford to ignore. She dives deep into how leadership has become a pendulum — swinging from authority to empathy — and why the real challenge is learning how to lead from the middle.If you’ve ever struggled to connect with younger teams, felt burnt out from leading, or questioned how to adapt to the new generation of work, this conversation will help you rediscover what it truly means to lead with balance, trust, and purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this eye-opening episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Tina Sioson to challenge one of the biggest lies in the workplace: that promotions and titles automatically make you a leader.With decades of experience in leadership development, Tina reveals why competence alone won’t make people follow you, how bad promotions create “accidental leaders,” and why character and readiness matter more than technical skills. She also explains why not everyone is meant to lead — and how organizations can grow their people without forcing them into roles they’re not built for.If you’ve ever felt the pressure to move up, questioned what real leadership looks like, or wondered why teams struggle under the wrong managers, this conversation will give you a new perspective on what it truly takes to lead.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @tinasioson_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down again with Dennis Sy to go even deeper into the lessons behind his book Design Your Life.From letting go of weak foundations to anchoring your identity on something eternal, Dennis reveals how true growth requires surrender, why purpose can feel hollow without personhood, and how to escape the trap of living on autopilot.If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or unsure of your next step, this episode will help you uncover the mindset shifts and timeless truths that can transform your life from default to design.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @dennis_sia_sy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this new episode of Small Talk , Alec sits down with Dennis Sy to uncover the deeper story behind his health scare, his bestselling book Design Your Life, and the mindset shifts that helped him escape the trap of living on autopilot.From a hospital bed to a life of clarity and purpose, Dennis shares the raw, untold moments — the struggle, the surrender, and the systems he built to reclaim his time, energy, and identity — and how he transformed crisis into clarity.If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or unsure of your next step, this episode will show you how letting go of the temporary can open the door to something lasting and powerful — and remind you that you can design your life, not just drift through it.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @dennis_sia_sy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Small Talk, Sam Y.G. continued uncovering the real reasons behind his biggest career moves: from leaving Boy’s Night Out, to battling burnout, to rebuilding his life with purpose.Sam opens up about the risks, the lessons, and the mindset shifts that helped him move from hustle to intentional growth.Packed with raw honesty, actionable advice, and stories that will resonate with anyone juggling career, personal growth, and mental health; whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or creative, his journey will inspire you to take back your time and design a life that truly works for you.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @_samyg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Sam YG to talk about growing up as a bullied kid, navigating identity in a Filipino-Indian household, and the turning point that changed everything.From being teased in grade school to becoming one of the country’s most recognizable radio personalities, Sam shares the real story behind his transformation — the early struggles, the first breaks, and the moments that taught him how to turn pain into power.He opens up about how humor became his armor, why resilience matters, and what it’s really like to build a career in entertainment when you don’t fit the mold.If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, doubted your own path, or wondered how to turn your setbacks into strengths, this episode will help you see how Sam turned adversity into his biggest advantage — and how you can too.Follow the podcast on IG: @smalltalkpodcasts with @aleccuenca_ and @_samyg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.