A Microsoft report found that younger generations are most likely to strive to be their own boss – 76% of Gen Z and Millennials identify this as a goal. The freedom and flexibility it provides offers a lifestyle very different from working 9-5. The big resignation motivated by COVID is therefore not a surprise. More than 47 million Americans have voluntarily left their jobs. At this time in late 2019, on the threshold of the pandemic, Diego Torres-Palma and Nick Conrad had the idea of ​​launching a podcast that inspires and educates entrepreneurs.

The Startup to Storefront podcast brings the stories of businesses and individuals who have taken the risk of going it alone to build the future with innovative, forward-thinking ideas. Focusing on leaders and innovators who work harder and smarter, the podcast gives an inside track on what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Diego brings his experience and expertise to every show. He is a real estate developer with Ventana Ventures and an angel investor known for investing in some of the show’s guests. Nick owns his own production company – Blue Crab Productions. Hosts interview entrepreneurs and other success stories that have built a business or brand to give audiences insight and a roadmap that will motivate more entrepreneurs just by listening to the podcast. “The great thing about podcasting is that you maximize your time — an important skill for any entrepreneur. You can still be productive while listening, and you’re learning something at the same time that will take you one step closer to financial independence,” said Diego The guests present their stories, how they prospered, where they failed and what they learned, all valuable information for someone who is just starting a business or considering starting one.

Diego brings his expertise and experience to the podcast – he has several exciting projects across Los Angeles. His real estate projects seek to bring the community together by recognizing and respecting the neighborhood he is developing to ensure this is done with support and with ultimate respect for a neighborhood’s history and culture. He is known for his breweries and is currently working on a new market in downtown LA. Los Angles residents might recognize one of his properties on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood – a large yellow bus parked inside the storefront. This story is a literal example of Startup To Storefront. Diego helped the Farm Cup cafe 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 permanently put it inside the building and restored their business, which is now an iconic West Hollywood sight. And, behind the big yellow truck is fittingly the podcast studio Startup To Storefront.

The podcast has had some great guests who are motivating and inspiring and give valuable insight into starting your own business. Guests include two-time UFC women’s strawweight champion Carla Esparza. Michael Cherman gave listeners insight into creating his own clothing line and has collaborated with brands including Lacoste and the NBA. Lettuce Grow founder Jacob Pechenik shared how he successfully launched his 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 hosting house parties turned into a successful taco business. There are plenty of other startup stories that give you first-hand knowledge of best practices and lessons learned.

Asked about the purpose of this podcast, Nick explained that they want to encourage people to start their own business, and if it can’t be done now, why not arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible in the meantime – c is the purpose of this podcast.

On Apple Podcasts, the show is over 100 episodes and counting. The Startup To Storefront Podcast is active and available on multiple 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 listen. You might be inspired to follow your dreams, and if not, at least you’ve done all the laundry!

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