Episode 62 with Diego Merlos is one of the most grounded conversations to come out of Studio 84 — a slow burn that turns into one of the most honest, mature talks we’ve had on identity, pressure, adulthood, and the internal life most men don’t talk about.Diego opens up about growing up in Southern California, chasing early passions, losing momentum, finding direction later than expected, and the silent expectations that follow men into their 20s and 30s. What starts as memories from childhood and DJ culture gradually shifts into a much deeper reflection on purpose and becoming the man you’re supposed to be.In this episode we get into:Growing up in the IE + navigating family expectationsWhy certain opportunities hit late — and how to handle that pressureThe identity crisis men face when their life doesn’t match the pictureDiego’s turning point and how he rebuilt discipline from scratchThe friendships, routines, and environments that shape who we becomeMy own battle with identity, ambition, and finding meaning after lossWhat “growing up” actually feels like for men todayZero hype. No trends.

From singing and touring internationally with Chippendales, to acting on Days of Our Lives, to competing on Star Search as a kid, to building a long career in radio, Todd has lived a life full of twists, reinventions, and unbelievable chapters.Today he’s in Las Vegas working with Gemini Jets — and in a full-circle moment, our paths crossed again in the most unexpected way.This episode dives into:• Growing up performing on national TV• Touring the world with Chippendales• The reality of show business• Finding a home in radio• Life in Vegas• Airplanes, aviation culture, and Gemini Jets• The art of reinvention

Touring Artist / Musician Dylan Chambers drops in to discuss his journey down the independent music path, from opening for rock legend John Oates at the iconic Troubadour to joining Allen Stone’s Stone Family Field Trip. Dylan shares invaluable lessons on the craft: how to find true soul on stage, stay grateful through the grind, and the 'do it anyway' philosophy required to walk that bridge into the fog.

What happens when you walk away from a successful radio career right before the entire industry changes?Former HOT 103.9 FM radio host and current educator Sabrina Ruiz opens up about her shocking decision to leave the airwaves, a choice she made just before the station flipped formats.In this powerful conversation, Sabrina shares the internal pressure that pushed her to quit, how a blunt consultant made her question her entire career path, and the moment she realized peace mattered more than position.We dive deep into:• The raw reality of the radio business then vs. now.• Teaching the next generation of broadcasters at the University of La Verne.• Mentors from Power 106 and her time working with legendary host Jeff Pope.• How faith carried her through tough career shifts, marriage challenges, and health scares.A story about resilience, clarity, and what it means to stay true to yourself when the industry changes around you.

He was told he couldn't read. He failed the bar exam four times. But Dulio Chavez, my uncle and an inspiration behind Studio 84, refused to quit. This episode is the story of his incredible fight: from being tracked into the lowest classes to becoming a lawyer and opening his own practice.In our most personal conversation yet, Dulio shares the raw truth about the grind of law school, the political forces that shaped his life, and his candid perspective on immigration and the future. We also get into why he believed in me, invested in Studio 84, and thinks you should always bet on passion. This isn't just a family story—it's a masterclass in resilience and rebuilding a life on your own terms.

Jorge Merlos lost it all: money, career, friendships—to alcohol addiction. Today, he’s sober, thriving, and captivating millions with his viral dance videos and Southpaw Bill brand. With 30K TikTok followers and 14.7K on Instagram, Jorge proves that reinvention is possible at any stage.

In this episode, we cover:

• The rock-bottom moment that sparked his transformation

• How dance became his ticket to a second chance

• Building a personal brand that connects and inspires

• Giving back to foster kids and his community

• The unexpected festival disaster that made him miss Morrissey

We sit down with Willy from Adventures of a Fat Guy, the man who walked away from a 25-year career to chase his passion for meat, fire, and flavor—launching King’s Meat & BBQ, one of the Inland Empire’s most talked-about culinary pivots.

Willy brings wisdom, humor, cuts and clarity for anyone feeling stuck in their career or lost in today’s social media mess.

Whether you’re a foodie, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just need a push to do your own thing, he delivers.

What if wine wasn’t reserved for the elite — but instead became a conversation?Fahara Zamorano, a Chilean-born sommelier based in Los Angeles, joins me for a vibrant, no-BS dialogue about taste, tradition, and why the next era of wine drinking might look very different.From her migration journey through Cincinnati to the heart of LA’s restaurant scene, Fahara’s story marks the beginning of a cultural shift — one that’s rewriting how we approach wine, hospitality, and self-expression.If you've ever felt out of place at a wine bar or wondered what all the swirling and sniffing is about — this one’s your permission slip to just enjoy the pour.