The Padernacht Podcast

Steven Padernacht

Steven Padernacht delivers a weekly podcast focused, on Real Business, Real Topics, Real People and Real Estate! Come and follow the journey!

  1. #33 The Business of Talent with Scott Kaufman: Inside Media, Sales, and Representation

    4D AGO

    #33 The Business of Talent with Scott Kaufman: Inside Media, Sales, and Representation

    In this insightful and wide-ranging episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, Steven Padernacht sits down with Scott Kaufman, Vice President of Alternative at Buchwald and a seasoned media and entertainment executive who has spent nearly two decades helping talent build lasting, profitable careers. From growing up on Long Island to navigating the early grind of unpaid internships, cold-call sales jobs, and relentless hustle, Scott shares a raw and honest look at what it really takes to break into media and representation. He opens up about the lessons learned from rejection, integrity in sales, and why mastering communication, storytelling, and listening became the foundation of his success. Scott walks through his unconventional journey—from selling radio ads across Long Island to working on film sets for free, and eventually rising to a leadership role at one of the most respected talent agencies in the business. Along the way, he explains how discipline, humility, and relationship-building separate short-term wins from long-term careers. Steven and Scott dive deep into the realities of the entertainment industry, personal branding, sales psychology, and why integrity still matters in a high-stakes, ego-driven world. They also unpack the importance of mentorship, learning the fundamentals, and betting on yourself when the path isn’t clear. They discuss: 🎙️ Breaking into media and entertainment without a roadmap  📞 How cold-calling and rejection build elite business skills  🧠 Why communication and listening are the real superpowers in sales  🎬 The transition from unpaid work to real opportunity  💼 Building long-term careers for talent in media, sports, and entertainment  📈 Personal branding, integrity, and sustaining success in competitive industries This episode is more than a career story — it’s a masterclass in patience, persistence, and professionalism. Whether you’re trying to break into entertainment, build a sales career, or level up your personal brand, Scott’s journey proves that nothing is overnight — it’s built brick by brick. 🎧 Tune in now for an honest conversation on hustle, storytelling, and building careers that last. 🔗 Connect with Scott Kaufman: 💼 Buchwald: https://www.buchwald.com 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht 🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions  🎙️ Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people creating impact and building a better future — one brick at a time. Support the show

    1h 18m
  2. #32 Saving Money & Building Legacy: How Andrew Gil Built a Business from the Ground Up

    DEC 14

    #32 Saving Money & Building Legacy: How Andrew Gil Built a Business from the Ground Up

    In this powerful episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, Steven Padernacht sits down with Andrew Gill, entrepreneur, community leader, and proud girl dad with deep roots in Spanish Harlem. From growing up in a tight-knit family with strong values to building a thriving business in the merchant services industry, Drew shares an honest and inspiring journey grounded in faith, legacy, and work ethic. Drew opens up about what it meant to be raised in a disciplined household, the lessons his father passed down, and why small acts — like stacking stacks of money “brick by brick” — shaped how he sees success today. He gives a look into the early hustle, the setbacks, and why saving, consistency, and believing in yourself matter more than any shortcut. Steven and Drew dive into fatherhood, being a Black and Latino man in business, the power of creating generational wealth, and how Drew’s mission shifted the moment he became a dad.  Together, they unpack the responsibility of raising daughters, pouring into your community, and why your work ethic is your reputation. They discuss: 🏙️ Growing up in Spanish Harlem and learning discipline early  💵 Why saving money brick by brick creates real freedom  👧 Being a father to three daughters and leading by example  💼 How Drew built his business from scratch without a blueprint  🧱 Legacy, values, and why culture starts at home  🔥 Why work ethic never lies — in business or life This episode is more than a conversation — it’s a reminder that success starts with who you are, not what you have. For anyone building a future, raising a family, or trying to break generational cycles, Drew’s story is proof that you can build it — brick by brick. 🎧 Tune in now and get inspired by an authentic story of legacy, family, and purpose. 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht 🎥 Produced by: CayiVision Productions  🎙️ Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people creating impact and building a better future — one brick at a time. Support the show

    1h 15m
  3. #31 Lights, Camera, Resilience: The Rise of Will La Salle in Indie Film

    DEC 3

    #31 Lights, Camera, Resilience: The Rise of Will La Salle in Indie Film

    In this inspiring and eye-opening episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, we sit down with Will La Salle, Bronx-born filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of LaSalle Productions. From his early years growing up in the Bronx to becoming a self-taught director whose films have been featured on Fox 5, Fox 35 Orlando, and platforms across New York, Will shares a powerful story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Will opens up about how he went from working as a School Safety Agent and NYC Correction Officer to buying $10,000 worth of camera equipment he didn’t yet know how to use. With no formal film school training, he taught himself everything — eventually producing seven films in seven years, including The Veteran, The Security Guard, Hilo, and more. His work has brought opportunities to local actors, highlighted Bronx and Yonkers culture, and opened doors for independent creatives across the region. Steven and Will dive deep into the discipline it takes to start from zero, the importance of staying obsessed with your craft, and how childhood, community, and life experiences shaped Will’s storytelling. They explore the grind behind independent filmmaking and the responsibility of creating platforms for others who never saw themselves represented in media. They discuss: 🎬 How Will transitioned from law enforcement to filmmaking  🔥 Why obsession, discipline, and passion drive creative success  🏙️ Putting the Bronx and Yonkers on the independent film map  📽️ The making of “The Veteran,” “The Security Guard,” and the “Hilo” series  💼 Collaborations with Lionsgate’s Great Point Studios and Mayor Mike Spano  ⭐ How Will creates opportunities for local talent and underserved communities  🎤 The moment Bret “The Hitman” Hart recognized his work This episode is more than a conversation — it’s a testament to what’s possible when you bet on yourself, stay committed, and build a legacy one frame, one story, and one brick at a time. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring, creative, and deeply motivating conversation about art, identity, purpose, and perseverance. 🔗 Connect with Will LaSalle:  🌐 Website: https://www.lasalleproductions.com  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l_a_s_a_l_l_e_____/?hl=en  🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht  🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions 🎙️ Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people creating impact and building a better future — one brick at a time.

    1h 6m
  4. #30 From Bronx Streets to Boardrooms: Omar Figueroa’s Rise in Real Estate & Grit

    NOV 25

    #30 From Bronx Streets to Boardrooms: Omar Figueroa’s Rise in Real Estate & Grit

    In this powerful new episode of The Padernacht Podcast, host Steven Padernacht sits down with Luis Omar Figueroa, Founder & CEO of HGRN Capital and one of New York’s leading voices in real estate investing and private lending. A Bronx native with deep roots in community empowerment, Omar brings a sharp, straightforward perspective on how everyday people — especially first-generation buyers and aspiring investors — can build wealth in today’s changing market. Together, Steve and Omar break down the real fundamentals of qualifying for financing in 2025, whether you're buying a home, flipping a property, or scaling an investment portfolio: ✔️ How credit truly impacts your ability to borrow  ✔️ What lenders look for when evaluating income — W2, 1099, or self-employed  ✔️ Why assets and proper financial planning matter long before you apply Omar shares insider insights from years of working with investors, explaining what underwriters look for, how hard-money financing works, and the biggest mistakes buyers make when preparing for a loan. He also talks about his mission to bring financial education and opportunities to underserved communities throughout New York City. They also dive into:  🏠 How to prepare 6–12 months ahead for approval  📉 How over-deducting on taxes hurts self-employed borrowers  🚗 Why car loans destroy debt-to-income ratios — and what to avoid  📊 Where interest rates may be heading in 2025  📈 Why a 5% rate environment could unlock massive buyer demand  💼 What lenders actually focus on during pre-approval  🏦 How investor financing differs from consumer mortgages Throughout the episode, Steve and Omar keep the conversation real, practical, and full of actionable advice — the type of information buyers and investors rarely get access to. They also take a moment to send love and strength to Christian Babcock, a key part of the podcast’s early journey, who is currently recovering. 🎧 Tune in and learn how to approach homebuying and investing with clarity, confidence, and the right strategy — no matter where you are on your real-estate journey. 🔗 Connect With Luis Omar Figueroa 🌐 Website: https://askluisomar.com/about 🏢 HGRN Capital: https://theorg.com/org/hgrn-capital 💼 Hard Money Lending: https://www.thehinhardmoney.com/ 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht  🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and uplifting their communities — one brick at a time.

    1h 31m
  5. #29 Breaking Barriers: Judge Orellana’s Path from Public Housing to the Courtroom

    NOV 21

    #29 Breaking Barriers: Judge Orellana’s Path from Public Housing to the Courtroom

    In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, host Steven Padernacht sits down with Judge Joaquin Orellana, the first male Ecuadorian judge in New York State. From growing up in the South Bronx projects to rising through the ranks of the criminal justice system, Judge Orellana’s journey is a story of grit, discipline, and unshakeable purpose. Born to immigrant parents who taught him the value of hard work and sacrifice, Judge Orellana reflects on his early struggles, including financial hardship, cultural challenges, and balancing education with responsibility at home. With honesty and humility, he shares the moments that shaped him — from being a young man navigating a tough environment to becoming a respected prosecutor and, ultimately, a judge committed to fairness, compassion, and community impact. They discuss: ⚖️ His path from public housing to the New York State bench  🌎 The immigrant experience and staying connected to his Ecuadorian roots  💪 How discipline, faith, and mentors changed the trajectory of his life  🏙️ The importance of representation in the justice system  👨‍👩‍👧 The legacy he wants to leave for his family and community  🔥 Advice for young people growing up in underserved neighborhoods This episode is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t define your future — your choices, your character, and your purpose do. Judge Orellana’s story shows what’s possible when resilience meets opportunity. 🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, encouragement, and the real-life blueprint of building success one brick at a time. 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht  🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and uplifting their communities — one brick at a time.

    1h 28m
  6. #28 Building a Legacy with Heart | Brandon Gaydorus’ Journey

    NOV 21

    #28 Building a Legacy with Heart | Brandon Gaydorus’ Journey

    In this powerful and uplifting episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, host Steven Padernacht sits down with Brandon Gaydorus — a five-time author, speaker coach, and founder of Warm Heart Life — to explore what it truly means to build a life, a mission, and a legacy rooted in heart. From struggling as a D-grade student and intern to being named one of the Top 50 Professionals in America, Brandon’s story is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of caring deeply for others. Through honesty and humor, he opens up about his turning points — the mentors who believed in him, the moments that broke him, and the calling that ultimately shaped his life’s purpose. They discuss: 💡 How failure became the foundation of Brandon’s leadership journey  🔥 The “Warm Heart” philosophy and how it changes the way we lead  🙌 The mentors and relationships that shaped his success  💭 The mindset that turns rejection into redirection  💬 The importance of gratitude, empathy, and service in business  🏗️ How to build a legacy that lasts beyond titles and trophies This episode is a deep reminder that true success isn’t about climbing the ladder — it’s about lifting others as you rise. 🎧 Tune in for practical wisdom, heart-driven leadership lessons, and a renewed perspective on what it means to live and lead with purpose. 🔗 Connect with Brandon Godorus:  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandongaydorus  🌐 Website: www.warmheartlife.com 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht  🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring conversations with real people building lives of impact, purpose, and legacy — one brick at a time.

    1h 7m
  7. #27 Building Strength Through Struggle — The Journey of Sean Degnan

    NOV 3

    #27 Building Strength Through Struggle — The Journey of Sean Degnan

    In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of the Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, we sit down with Sean Degnan — a man of discipline, faith, and leadership — to explore the deeper side of growth, grit, and purpose. From years in the restaurant industry to becoming a voice for resilience and mindset mastery, Sean’s journey is one built on consistency, humility, and a relentless pursuit of becoming better every day. Sean opens up about what it truly means to lead with service, the importance of intentional suffering, and how building strength — both mentally and spiritually — begins with small, daily wins. He shares lessons learned through challenges, the value of slowing down to stay aligned, and how faith continues to shape his vision for life, work, and fatherhood. They discuss: 🔥 The role of discipline and structure in personal transformation  💡 Why leadership begins with self-awareness and humility  🧠 How struggle and discomfort refine character  💪 The mindset behind building consistency and resilience  🙏 The importance of faith and stillness in a chaotic world  👨‍👩‍👧 The legacy of leading by example for the next generation This episode goes beyond success — it’s a deep dive into the inner work of becoming your best self. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t built in moments of comfort but in the quiet, unseen grind of everyday commitment. 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and be inspired to build discipline, lead with heart, and walk in purpose — one brick at a time. 🔗 Connect with Sean Degnan:  📸 Instagram: @sean.degnan  💬 Connect & Learn More: Contact | Sean Degnan 🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions  🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht Subscribe to The Patternakt Podcast: Brick by Brick for more stories of real people building impact, character, and community — one brick at a time.

    1h 17m
  8. #26 From Humble Beginnings to Impactful Living — The Journey of Jeanesca & Luis Martinez

    OCT 28

    #26 From Humble Beginnings to Impactful Living — The Journey of Jeanesca & Luis Martinez

    In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, we sit down with Jeanesca Martinez, a dedicated real estate professional changing lives one home at a time, and Luis Martinez, a public servant and liaison for the NYC Mayor’s Office. Together, they share their incredible journeys — from humble beginnings in the Bronx projects to careers built on service, purpose, and passion. Jeanesca opens up about the emotional rewards of helping families achieve homeownership, the joy of seeing clients build generational wealth, and the challenges of balancing a busy real estate career while raising a family. Luis offers an inside look at his vital work in public safety, leading cross-agency initiatives like Community Link, a program improving neighborhoods across the Bronx through collaboration, action, and accountability. They discuss:  🏠 The emotional impact of helping families buy their first home  🌆 How NYC agencies are working together to uplift communities  💪 The power of facing fear and pursuing what truly fulfills you  💰 Financial lessons they wish they learned earlier  👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The legacy they hope to leave for their children  ❤️ Why family, faith, and purpose remain their guiding lights This episode is more than a conversation — it’s a reminder that success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about lifting others, serving your community, and leaving the world better than you found it. 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and discover how love, purpose, and service can shape not just a career, but a legacy. 🔗 Connect with Jeanesca Martinez:  📱 Call/Text: (845) 694-9067  📸 Instagram: @withjeanescamartinez 🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions 🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht  Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people creating impact and building a better future — one brick at a time.

    54 min

About

Steven Padernacht delivers a weekly podcast focused, on Real Business, Real Topics, Real People and Real Estate! Come and follow the journey!