Small Talk! With Alec Cuenca - Motivation & Mindset Podcast

Avsnitt

• The Lesson Janina Vela Learned After 10 Years of Sharing Online 04.06.2026 29min

  In this highlight episode, @janinavela opens up about why she took a hiatus from content creation, the heavy things she was dealing with in private, and how growing up online taught her the value of privacy, authenticity, and healing. She shares what it was like to stop pretending she was okay, rebuild her identity beyond being a creator, and find peace in her “secret place” with God.Janina also talks about becoming more vocal in politics as a pastor’s kid, the backlash that came with speaking up, and why she believes faith and justice can exist together. This conversation is about mental health, conviction, courage, prayer, and learning how to stay grounded when life feels noisy, painful, and uncertain.We discuss:• Why Janina Vela took a hiatus from content creation• The pressure of living a public life at a young age• What it means to be a “political pastor’s kid”• Why Christians should not be afraid to speak up• How Janina prepares herself for criticism and backlash• Janina’s “secret place” and relationship with GodIf you’ve ever struggled with identity, burnout, loneliness, criticism, or trying to stay authentic in a world full of noise.. this episode is for you.Credit: @janinavela x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Janina:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janinavelaphInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janinavela/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@janinavelap Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Janina Vela Opens Up About Her Content Creation Hiatus, Faith, Politics, And Her Secret Place 30.05.2026 52min

  In this episode, @janinavela opens up about one of the most transformative seasons of her life. From growing up as one of the Philippines' earliest YouTube creators, to stepping away from content creation while battling depression in private, to finding a deeper sense of purpose through journalism, advocacy, and faith. This conversation is about identity, healing, courage, and the journey of becoming more authentic in a world that constantly expects you to perform.This episode also dives into Janina's perspective on politics, religion, and speaking up despite criticism. As a pastor's kid who chose to enter the world of political journalism, she shares why she believes faith and civic engagement should not be separated, how she prepares herself for public backlash, and why standing up for justice is deeply connected to her Christian beliefs. We also talk about mental health, social media, the importance of privacy, and what it means to cultivate a "secret place" with God in a world filled with noise and distraction.We discuss:• Why Janina took a hiatus from content creation• The hidden struggles she was facing behind the scenes• The relationship between faith, politics, and social responsibility• Why Christians shouldn't be afraid to engage in difficult conversations• How Janina handles criticism and online backlash• The importance of having a strong sense of identity• What her "secret place" with God looks likeIf you've ever felt lost, overwhelmed, discouraged, or afraid to speak up for what you believe in.. this episode is for you.Credit: @janinavela x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Janina:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janinavelaphInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janinavela/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@janinavelap Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• What Being RICH Actually Gives You with Mikee Reyes 28.05.2026 31min

  In this episode, @mikee.reyes shares the mindset shifts that changed the way he sees success, content creation, and life. He talks about why freedom has become his new definition of success, why financial stability is really about buying back your time, and why the life you're building matters more than the things you're buying.This episode also goes deeper into what it actually takes to succeed as a creator today. We talk about clout as currency, the biggest mistake aspiring creators make, why doing content for money is a losing game, and why finding yourself matters more than finding a niche. He shares how he built a brand around who he really is, why speed beats perfection, and why the best content comes from living an interesting life rather than trying to manufacture one.We discuss:• Why freedom became his new definition of success• The relationship between money, time, and financial stability• Why rich people buy back their time• Why clout is one of the most valuable currencies today• The biggest misconception about content creators and influencers• Why "find yourself, not your niche" is better adviceIf you're building a personal brand, trying to grow online, or figuring out how to create content without losing yourself in the process.. this episode is for you.Credit: @mikee.reyes x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Tito Mikee:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tito.mikeereyesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikee.reyes/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_mikeereyesCheck out the older episodes with Mikeehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uSUluWbsP4https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zLVYCkPYug&t=63shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6xASD8t09Q Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Most People Fail At Content Creation 24.05.2026 1h 6min

  In this episode, @mikee.reyes shares the truth about content creation that most people still misunderstand.. why “finding your niche” is overrated, why clout is not automatically a bad thing, and why the best creators are the ones who stop pretending to be someone else. He talks about building a brand around who you really are instead of forcing yourself into one box.This conversation also goes deeper into the realities of becoming a creator in 2026.. the pressure of attention, the misconception around “influencers,” and why most people quit content too early because they only do it for money. He shares why content creation is more than just posting videos.. it’s building a lifestyle, a relationship with your audience, and learning how to create from your strengths instead of your insecurities.We discuss:- Why “you are the niche” changes everything- The problem with copying successful creators- Why clout is the currency of the internet today- The difference between creators and influencers- Why creators should stop boxing themselves in- The importance of authenticity and self-awarenessIf you’ve been wanting to create content.. grow online.. or build a brand around who you really are instead of who people expect you to be.. this episode is for you.Credit: @mikee.reyes x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Tito Mikee:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tito.mikeereyesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikee.reyes/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_mikeereyes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Family Became His Biggest Source Of Drive And Discipline 06.05.2026 36min

  In this episode, @geloyconcepcion shares the shift that changed the way he saw his art.. from chasing ego and validation, to realizing that his work could become a channel for other people’s stories, pain, and healing. From the message that told him his project helped save a life, to turning anonymous stories into a published book in America, this conversation is about what happens when creativity becomes bigger than yourself.This episode also goes deeper into the realities of staying inspired, staying humble, and building a creative life with intention. Geloy talks about family as his anchor, why success reveals who people really are, why creatives need strategy and quiet time, and why rest is not wasted time.. sometimes, it is something you have to buy back for yourself.We discuss:* How one message changed the way he saw his creative work* Why talent should not become an ego trip* How his project became a book published in America* What keeps him inspired after years of creating* Why humility matters when success starts coming in* The importance of rest, quiet time, and doing nothingIf you’re a creative trying to find meaning in your work.. or someone learning how to stay grounded while building something bigger than yourself.. this episode is for you.Credit: @geloyconcepcion x @smalltalkpodcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Most Filipino Artists Never Make It Abroad 02.05.2026 34min

  In this episode, @geloyconcepcion shares what it really means to build a life through art.. from growing up in Pandacan, drawing every day as a kid, to becoming a Filipino photographer and artist whose work now reaches people around the world.This conversation goes deeper into the reality of being a creative.. why talent is only the beginning, why artists need to professionalize their work, and why personal projects matter when your passion becomes your business. Geloy also shares the story behind his work, his move to America, and how portraits, words, and anonymity helped him create art that makes people feel seen.We discuss:* How Geloy started drawing as a kid in Pandacan* Why talent alone is not enough for creatives* The importance of professionalizing your art* Why personal work keeps your passion alive* How artists can balance business and creativity* The story behind Bad Days Are TemporaryIf you’re a creative trying to build a life from your art.. this episode is for you.Credit: @geloyconcepcion x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Geloy:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geloy.concepcionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/geloyconcepcion/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/geloyconcepcion1992Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@geloyconcepcionBook: https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-celebrate/things-you-wanted-to-say-but-never-did/#orderOther links: https://baddaysaretemporaryph.com/password Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The Real Reason You Can’t Move Forward In Life 29.04.2026 46min

  In this episode, @zacalviz talk about the kind of truth most people only learn the hard way.. that success does not remove problems, it upgrades them. This conversation is about stress, growth, pressure, and why feeling overwhelmed does not always mean something is wrong. Sometimes, it means life is asking more from you because you’re capable of more.This episode goes deeper into the hidden patterns behind people who keep growing.. why the right circle matters, why wisdom can save you years of pain, and why many people stay stuck solving the same level of problems for too long. We also talk about balance, identity, and how the next version of your life often requires a stronger version of you first.We discuss:- Why success comes with bigger problems, not fewer problems- How stress can be a sign of growth, not failure- Why many people stay trapped in the same life level- The importance of learning from people ahead of you- How your circle quietly shapes your future- Why balance is more complex than most people think- How to stop repeating the same painful patternsIf you feel overwhelmed, behind, or stuck in the same cycle.. this episode will help you see your problems differently. Sometimes the pressure you hate is the proof you’re growing.Credit: @zacalviz x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Zac Alviz:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zacalviz.officialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacalviz/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zacalvizOther links:https://www.instagram.com/alviz.accounting/https://www.instagram.com/zionproductions.au/https://www.instagram.com/ikigaipropertiesph/https://www.instagram.com/ascendstudios.au/https://www.instagram.com/ohninebooth/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The Most Common Mistake Filipinos Make with Their Money 26.04.2026 48min

  In this episode, @zacalviz shares the journey that led him to success and why building relationships with the right people is key to unlocking greater opportunities. From his beginnings in real estate to diving into content creation, Zac talks about how he built his business, Ikigai Properties, and what he learned from his years of hard work in Australia. He emphasizes the importance of knowing your worth, creating offers that add value, and surrounding yourself with high achievers who can teach you valuable lessons.He also dives into the practical steps for anyone who wants to elevate their network and make meaningful connections, even when starting from scratch. He highlights the crucial habit of staying committed to one venture and avoiding the distraction of constantly jumping to new trends. His story is a testament to the power of persistence, self-awareness, and the willingness to serve before expecting anything in return. Zac’s insights on how to approach wealthy mentors and build lasting relationships are crucial for anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally.We discuss:* How Zac transitioned from real estate to content creation* The power of self-awareness in building your value* Why surrounding yourself with successful people is essential* Practical steps to building your network, even without resources* How to create an offer that attracts high-value mentorsIf you're looking for practical advice on how to build relationships that help you grow, while also focusing on your true potential, this episode is for you.Comment "CONSISTENCY1" and I'll DM you the link.Credit: @zacalviz x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Zac Alviz:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zacalviz.officialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zacalviz/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zacalvizOther links:https://www.instagram.com/alviz.accounting/https://www.instagram.com/zionproductions.au/https://www.instagram.com/ikigaipropertiesph/https://www.instagram.com/ascendstudios.au/https://www.instagram.com/ohninebooth/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• How to Stop Your Creative Business from Dying 23.04.2026 28min

  In this episode, @dmetroman breaks down what actually separates people who last in business from those who fade out.. and it’s not talent. It’s attitude. From entitlement, discipline, and going the extra mile, to building a brand that people don’t just like but deeply remember.. this conversation dives into the mindset behind long-term success and why most people unknowingly sabotage their own growth.This episode also goes deeper into how to build real momentum.. even if you’re starting from nothing. Oly shares why patience is underrated, why over-delivering creates your best marketing, and why your network grows based on the level of work you’re willing to give. We also talk about fear.. and why your “why” has to be stronger than what’s holding you back if you truly want to move forward.We discuss:* The hidden attitude that quietly destroys your growth* Why entitlement kills more opportunities than failure* How discipline keeps you moving even when you don’t feel like it* Why over-delivering creates unforgettable experiences* How to attract better clients even without connections* The real reason patience is a competitive advantage* How to deal with fear when you know you want more* Why your “why” must be bigger than your fearIf you feel stuck, overlooked, or afraid to take your next step.. this episode will help you reset how you think about growth.. and remind you what it actually takes to move forward.Credit: @dmetroman x @smalltalkpodcastsFollow Oly Ruiz:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dmetromanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmetroman/Metrophoto Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mymetrophoto/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@metrophotoLinks: mymetrophoto.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The Secret Pattern in Every Creative Who Never Makes It 18.04.2026 26min

  In this episode, @dmetroman shares what it really takes to build something that lasts.. not just in creativity, but in business. From starting photography as a side hustle while working in corporate, to turning Metrophoto into one of the most respected names in the industry, this conversation is about hard work, hunger, humility, and the mindset it takes to stay sharp even after nearly two decades in the game.This episode also goes deeper into the values behind long-term success.. why passion alone is not enough, why creativity still needs structure, and why treating your craft like a business changes everything. Oly talks about stepping on the gas even after 19 years, learning creativity as a skill, hiring people based on values, and how family became one of the biggest reasons he pushed himself to do better.We discuss:- Why hard work still matters more than talent alone- How Oly balanced corporate life and photography before going full time- The moment he knew Metrophoto could become a real business- Why creativity without structure won’t last- The values he looks for in people who want to grow with the team- How humility, hunger, and consistency create long-term successIf you’re building something of your own.. or trying to turn your passion into a business that lasts.. this episode is for you.Comment "METROPHOTO1" and I'll DM you the link.Credit: @dmetroman x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Oly Ruiz:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dmetromanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmetroman/Metrophoto Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mymetrophoto/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@metrophotoLinks: mymetrophoto.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Stop Trying to Keep Up With AI — Here's What to Do Instead 15.04.2026 34min

  In this episode, @sophianicolesy gets practical about AI.. not as a trend, but as a tool you can slowly integrate into your daily life. From using AI with your calendar, email, and photos, to understanding how it can make you more valuable at work, this conversation makes AI feel less intimidating and more useful. It’s not about mastering everything overnight.. it’s about starting with what already takes your time and learning how to get some of that time back.This episode also explores the bigger questions around AI, work, pressure, and purpose. Sophia talks about why AI will change jobs but also create new ones, why trying to “stay ahead” is the wrong mindset, and how curiosity matters more than knowing every update. Beyond tech, she opens up about building Sofi AI from scratch, handling pressure without pretending she has it all figured out, and what to remember when you feel delayed in life. Her message is simple but powerful.. in God’s perfect time.We discuss:* Practical ways to start using AI in everyday life* Why AI will become a baseline skill in the future* Why you can never fully “stay ahead” in AI* How Sofi AI helps businesses automate chats* What it’s like building a startup in a new industry* What to remember when you feel delayed in lifeIf AI still feels overwhelming, or if life feels like you’re behind everyone else, this episode will help you breathe, refocus, and take the next step with clarity.Join our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Sophia Sy:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophiasy828Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SOFI.AI.TECH.SOLUTION.INCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophianicolesy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofi_ai_tech/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sophianicole828 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• From Selling in Divisoria at Age 7 to Running a Philippine AI Startup 11.04.2026 31min

  In this episode, @sophianicolesy shares the story most people don’t expect.. from being homeschooled and feeling behind in school, to giving up the one dream that defined her identity, and eventually building an AI startup. It’s a conversation about what happens when your life doesn’t go according to plan.. and how those moments shape who you become.This episode goes deeper into the foundations that quietly build successful people early.. the environment you grow up in, the people you surround yourself with, and the lessons you catch, not just what you’re taught. Sophie shares how exposure, stewardship, and curiosity became her advantage. We also talk about AI.. not as hype, but as a real tool solving real problems for businesses today.We discuss:* The power of growing up around the right people* How early exposure shapes confidence and skill* Why internships matter more than most people think* How curiosity led her into AI and tech* The real business problem AI is solving today* Why most people misunderstand AI’s practical useIf you’re feeling lost, behind, or unsure of your path.. this episode will help you see your story differently.Follow Sophia Sy:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophiasy828Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SOFI.AI.TECH.SOLUTION.INCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophianicolesy/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofi_ai_tech/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sophianicole828 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The No. 1 Reason You Can't Find Your Audience (You're Looking in the Wrong Place) 08.04.2026 29min

  In this episode, @chieflim opens up about the side of stand-up comedy most people don’t see.. the bombing, the hecklers, the jokes that can’t be posted online, and the pressure of figuring out how far you can really go with your craft. What starts as a conversation about comedy turns into something deeper.. about reading the room, trusting your instincts, finding your audience, and learning how to stay grounded while still believing in what you do.This episode goes deeper into the reality of performing.. how to recover when a set goes wrong, why context matters in comedy, and what makes a live performance actually work. Leland also shares a powerful reminder for people in their 20s trying to figure things out.. your friends are not your audience, your gut matters more than you think, and confidence in your craft has to come from you first.We discuss:- How having a rough set on stage taught him to pivot and read the room- The difference between what works in a show vs online content- What makes a performance connect with an audience- Why your audience will find you if you keep showing up- The advice he’d give to people in their 20s who want to pursue their craftIf you’ve ever wanted to create, perform, or put yourself out there.. but you’re scared of failing, judgment, or not being understood.. this episode is for you.Comment “COMEDY1” and I’ll DM you the link.Credit: @chieflim x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Leland Lim:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LelandLimComedyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chieflim/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lelandlimTicket link to his shows: comedymanila.ph/team/leland-lim/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Messages God Wants You To Hear 04.04.2026 32min

  This Holy Week Special is a compilation of some of the most powerful moments from our past episodes, all centered on one thing: God.In this special episode, we revisit honest and deeply personal conversations with different guests as they share how God met them in their lowest moments, how faith carried them through pain, and how surrender, prayer, grace, and intimacy with God changed their lives. These are conversations about returning to what truly matters, especially in seasons of uncertainty, heartbreak, pressure, and waiting. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt tired, lost, overwhelmed, or far from God. It’s a reminder that faith is not just about words, appearances, or religion, it’s about relationship. It’s about what happens behind closed doors, in the quiet moments, in the breaking, in the surrender, and in the decision to trust God again. In this Holy Week special, we talk about:- How God meets people in their lowest moments- What surrender really means- The difference between religion and intimacy with God- Why faith is often tested in painful seasons- Healing, grace, and personal relationship with God- Prayer, obedience, forgiveness, and trust- Finding your identity in God, not in the world- Why crisis can reveal what truly mattersWherever you are in your journey, may this episode bring you back to peace, perspective, and the presence of God.If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who might need it this Holy Week.Credit: @giannehinolan x @stevesiasy x @maxenemagalona x @russjuson x @jennyyeoooo x @dennis_sia_sy x @hannahdelarosa x @smalltalkpodcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The REAL Reason Most Filipinos Stay In Careers They Hate 01.04.2026 36min

  In this episode, @chieflim shares his story from working in advertising for nearly a decade, to chasing a creative path in stand-up comedy and eventually creating the Walang Edit-Edit Podcast. It’s a raw and honest conversation about what it really takes to pursue creative work.. and why the most meaningful paths are often the most uncertain.This episode goes deeper into the unseen side of creativity.. the discipline behind comedy, the years it takes to master one joke, and the uncomfortable process of putting your work out there without perfection. We also talk about identity, career shifts, and why the validation we seek from others can quietly shape the life we choose to live.We discuss:- The real story behind “Walang Edit-Edit Podcast”- Why raw and unfiltered content is what people actually connect with- The hidden discipline behind stand-up comedy- Why creative careers are built on risk, not certainty- The truth about validation and why it drives most creators- What it really takes to leave a stable career and start overIf you’ve ever felt stuck between staying safe and chasing what you really want.. this episode will make you rethink the path you’re on.Credit: @chieflim x @smalltalkpodcastsJoin our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Leland Lim:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LelandLimComedyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chieflim/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lelandlimTicket link to his shows: comedymanila.ph/team/leland-lim/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• A Conversation Every Woman Needs To Hear! 28.03.2026 37min

  In this episode, powerful women open up about the truths behind identity, healing, love, and becoming. From navigating pressure, mental health struggles, and expectations, to building confidence, setting standards, and redefining what success really means.. this is a raw and honest conversation about what it takes to grow into the woman you’re meant to be.This episode dives into the realities women face that are rarely talked about.. learning to trust your intuition, breaking generational expectations, healing from low moments, and choosing yourself without guilt. You’ll hear stories about resilience, faith, relationships, and self-worth.. and how the right mindset, environment, and support system can completely change your life.We discuss:• Why vision and intention matter more than timelines• The truth about mental health, healing, and starting over• How to trust your gut even when no one agrees• Why standards, boundaries, and self-respect change everything• The pressure women face in family, relationships, and society• How strong women are shaped by their environment and experiences• The real meaning of success, love, and identityIf you’ve ever felt lost, pressured, or unsure of who you’re becoming.. this episode will remind you that growth isn’t linear, and your story is still unfolding.Credit: @reigermar x @ckdeleon_ x @yanimcuenca x @matchmakerphilippines x @nicafabregas x @smalltalkpodcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• If You’re Not Changing, You're Stuck 25.03.2026 40min

  In this episode, we bring together honest conversations from women who are navigating pressure, expectations, and the quiet battles that don’t always get seen.. from feeling behind, to carrying responsibilities too early, to learning how to choose themselves without guilt.This episode goes deeper into what it really feels like to grow as a woman.. the tension between who you’re expected to be and who you actually want to become. It’s about identity, boundaries, healing, and finding your voice in a world that often tells you to shrink.We discuss:- The pressure placed on women to succeed early- Feeling “behind” and comparing your timeline to others- Breaking expectations around being the “strong one”- Learning to set boundaries with family and relationships- Choosing yourself without feeling selfish- Finding your identity beyond roles and responsibilitiesIf you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying more than you should.. this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Gen-Z CEO: From ₱20K To 9 Figures.. Here’s What Changed 22.03.2026 33min

  In this episode, @cleoloque shares the decision that changed everything.. choosing focus over doing more. After graduating, she had more space, and instead of filling it with new things, she removed distractions and went all-in on what truly mattered. That one shift led to their first 9-figure year.. not because she did more, but because she finally did less with intention.This conversation goes deeper into what most people get wrong about growth. It’s easy to dream big, but much harder to stay aligned with a dream that’s actually yours. Cleo talks about curating your goals based on what you truly want, not what social media tells you to chase.. and why belief matters more than having a clear plan. We also unpack why founder-led content still works, how storytelling builds trust, and why your “magic” is the one thing no one can copy.We discuss:* Why dreaming big is easy.. but maintaining it is hard* How to set goals even if you don’t know how yet* Why most people are chasing the wrong dream* Founder-led marketing and why it still works* How storytelling builds trust and connection* Building the right circle and environment for growthIf you’ve been feeling stuck, distracted, or unsure of your next step.. this episode will help you simplify what actually matters.Join our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Cleo Loque:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cleoloqueInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleoloque/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CleoLoqueTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cleoloqueSuccess Tips for Young & Aspiring Entrepreneurs W/ Cleo Loque | Ep. 141https://youtu.be/UlazTLqycJI?si=_NvQ6KP557M96roGAlso, if you’re serious about growing your business and you’re done juggling tools, Odoo is built for you.Odoo brings your CRM, Sales, and Projects into one system so you can sell faster, execute better, and operate with clarity.Click the link below to see how Odoo works and decide if it’s the system your business needs next.Explore Odoo here: https://www.odoo.com/r/aleccuenca1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• 22-Year Old Millionaire: This Is Why Your Business Isn’t Growing! 18.03.2026 31min

  In this episode, @cleoloque shares the real story behind building Hiraya Pilipina from just borrowing ₱20,000 from her parents to becoming a 9-figure brand. What looks like overnight success was actually built through trial and error, expensive mistakes, and moments of doubt that most people never see. From failed product launches to a multi-million peso event that didn’t go as planned, this conversation reveals what it really takes to build something meaningful from scratch.This episode also dives into the lessons most entrepreneurs learn the hard way. Cleo talks about the importance of starting small, building systems before scaling, and why growth doesn’t come from doing more but from fixing what already exists. Beyond business, she opens up about choosing freedom over money, setting boundaries even with family, and breaking generational expectations to live life on her own terms.We discuss:* How ₱20,000 turned into a 9-figure brand* The expensive mistake that changed how she makes decisions* Why starting small leads to bigger wins* The importance of systems before scaling* Why having a “no” person in your team matters* Setting boundaries and breaking generational expectationsIf you’re building something of your own or figuring out your next step, this episode will give you clarity on what actually matters.Join our community: SmallTalk After Hourshttps://www.facebook.com/share/g/18L65QkBY2/Follow Cleo Loque:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cleoloqueInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleoloque/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CleoLoqueTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cleoloqueSuccess Tips for Young & Aspiring Entrepreneurs W/ Cleo Loque | Ep. 141https://youtu.be/UlazTLqycJI?si=_NvQ6KP557M96roG Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The 5 Rules of Content Creation That 97% Of People Don't Know... 14.03.2026 37min

  In this episode, @aynbernos talks about one of the hardest lessons in content creation.. you have to stop forcing a style that was never meant for you. She shares how easy it is to look at other creators and think, “Why am I not like that?” but explains why growth really starts when you stop copying what works for others and start leaning into what feels natural for you.The conversation also dives into the business side of content creation and what it actually takes to grow. She breaks down why content is a real business, the different ways creators make money, why posting consistently matters more than obsessing over numbers, and why talking on camera is one of the fastest ways to build real connection. If you’ve been wanting to start creating but feel overwhelmed, this episode will help you simplify it and finally begin.We discuss:* How to find your natural style and “zone of genius”* The real business opportunities inside content creation* Different income streams like views, brand deals, and affiliates* The importance of posting daily when you’re starting* How your name, profile, and identity affect your creator brand* How to choose the right topic or niche based on what you can talk about for hoursFollow Ayn Bernos:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialAynBernosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/aynbernos/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AynBernosTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aynbernos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.