Bold Moves Podcast

Mat Torres

Introducing Bold Moves — a series that delves into the exhilarating stories of risk-takers. Join your host Mat Torres and embark on an emotional narrative journey with each guest, uncovering stories filled with suspense, growth, and triumphant success. Designed to inspire both cautious decision-makers and adventurous thrill-seekers, these tales provide wisdom and insight to navigate life's uncertainty. Perfect for anyone eager to learn, laugh, and conquer fear!

  1. From Wells Fargo to Builder: AJ’s Bold Career Shift

    12/16/2025

    From Wells Fargo to Builder: AJ’s Bold Career Shift

    AJ’s bold career shift from nearly two decades at Wells Fargo to building his own successful construction company is the focus of this inspiring episode of the Bold Moves Podcast. Host Mat Torres dives into AJ's journey, exploring how he took the leap of faith to leave a secure corporate job and start Avanti Construction Services LLC, overcoming challenges and redefining success on his own terms. This episode is packed with insights on personal growth, navigating career transitions, and taking risks to build the life you want. AJ shares his hands-on approach to construction, his commitment to quality, and the lessons learned from balancing corporate life with entrepreneurship. Learn how community relationships, adaptability, and a never-give-up mindset propelled him forward, even during challenging times. Whether you’re considering your next bold move or looking for inspiration in your own journey, AJ’s story will motivate you to embrace risks and focus on what truly matters. **Key Takeaways:** - How AJ transitioned from corporate life at Wells Fargo to founding Avanti Construction Services. - The impact of bold moves on mental health, career growth, and personal fulfillment. - Lessons on authenticity, trust-building, and client-centered work in entrepreneurship. - Why embracing challenges and staying adaptable are keys to success. Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates risk-taking, resilience, and the power of bold decisions. Subscribe to Bold Moves Podcast for more inspiring stories like AJ’s! CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:12 - AJ with Avanti Construction Services LLC 02:32 - AJ's Previous Show Appearance 05:38 - Shout Out to Aux Plumbing Team 08:12 - Self-Respect in Professionalism 11:56 - Bold Move in Commercial Projects 14:35 - Pivotal Moments in Life 19:50 - Balancing Construction and Wells Fargo Job 21:20 - Learning Construction Skills 24:55 - Getting Started in Construction 27:59 - Introduction to Quantum Computing 29:40 - Starting a New Career at Any Age 33:11 - Challenges of Social Media 35:21 - Evolving Definition of Success 41:33 - Future Plans for Bold Moose 44:43 - Quick Fire Questions 48:27 - Contacting AJ 49:28 - Outro Also check out: https://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com Video clips made with Taja AI: https://www.taja.ai/?via=mathew Gear Used: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - https://amzn.to/48PhbOh TASCAM Mixcast 4 - https://amzn.to/4rP4vP7 SHURE MV7+ - https://amzn.to/4oMvhF6 MAC Studio - https://amzn.to/4pPwJYN GVM LED Lighting - https://amzn.to/4oMyGDE GVM Flexible Light Mat - https://amzn.to/4rRr99m

    50 min
  2. From Rentals to Real Estate Success with Michael Hernandez

    12/12/2025

    From Rentals to Real Estate Success with Michael Hernandez

    From Rentals to Real Estate Success 🚀 – In this episode of the Bold Moves Podcast, host Mat Torres welcomes real estate agent extraordinaire Michael Hernandez to share his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in rentals to building a thriving real estate business. Hear firsthand how bold decisions, personal growth, and calculated risks shaped his path to success. Michael dives deep into the challenges of navigating various markets, the emotional rollercoaster of real estate transactions, and the importance of building meaningful connections with clients. He shares valuable insights on transitioning from rentals to home sales, leaving a family-run team, embracing new opportunities, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or someone seeking inspiration for your next bold move, this episode is packed with wisdom and relatable stories. 🎯 Key Takeaways: - The power of persistence and finding your niche in real estate. - Navigating market challenges and leveraging new build opportunities. - Balancing loyalty with the courage to make independent moves. - How emotional resilience and strong client relationships drive success. - Performance-based approaches that redefine the real estate experience. Join us for an authentic conversation filled with inspiring lessons, bold moves, and actionable advice that can help you take your career or personal growth to the next level. Don’t miss this episode of the Bold Moves Podcast! #realtortips #boldmoves #michaelhernandezrealestate #veteranrealestate #realestateadvice CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:41 - Michael Hernandez’s Start in Real Estate 06:54 - When Did It Start to Click for Michael 08:06 - What Sparked Michael’s Motivation to Succeed 09:58 - The Moment That Changed Everything for Michael 15:14 - Challenges and Roadblocks in Building a Business 17:00 - Significant Bold Moves in Michael's Career 20:51 - Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty Overview 22:42 - Emotional Rollercoaster of Real Estate 25:00 - Market Impact on New Real Estate Agents 28:15 - Market Conditions Advisory Insights 29:13 - Key Lessons Learned from Michael 35:10 - Staying Resilient During Tough Times 38:31 - Sci-fi Inspirations 42:17 - Sources of Boldness and Inspiration 43:58 - Best Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents 44:34 - Encouragement to Be Bolder Today 45:00 - The Importance of Taking Chances 47:00 - Final Thoughts and Additional Insights 47:31 - How to Contact Micahel Also check out: https://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com Video clips made with Taja AI: https://www.taja.ai/?via=mathew Gear Used: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - https://amzn.to/48PhbOh TASCAM Mixcast 4 - https://amzn.to/4rP4vP7 SHURE MV7+ - https://amzn.to/4oMvhF6 MAC Studio - https://amzn.to/4pPwJYN GVM LED Lighting - https://amzn.to/4oMyGDE GVM Flexible Light Mat - https://amzn.to/4rRr99m

    48 min
  3. From $50K Homes to Top Agent: Jenny Apodaca’s Bold Journey

    12/11/2025

    From $50K Homes to Top Agent: Jenny Apodaca’s Bold Journey

    Discover how Jenny Apodaca made bold moves to transform her career from humble beginnings selling $50K homes to becoming a top real estate agent and building her own team. In this captivating episode of the Bold Moves Podcast, Mat Torres delves into Jenny's courageous career transition, personal growth, and the lessons she's learned along the way. From her incredible first year closing 36 homes to navigating challenges as a single mom, Jenny shares authentic insights that inspire risk-taking and resilience. Jenny’s journey reflects the power of determination, adaptability, and her passion for helping others succeed. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to thrive in real estate or take a leap of faith in your own career, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt moments. Plus, hear how Jenny’s love for sci-fi and her ability to balance family, career, and personal interests make her story truly relatable. Takeaways from this episode: - How Jenny transitioned from unpredictable jobs to becoming a top-performing solo real estate agent. - The importance of building connections for sustainable success. - Insights into starting a real estate team with a focus on mentoring and independence. - How to overcome challenges like balancing family life while pursuing your goals. - Why embracing bold moves can lead to incredible personal growth and professional achievements. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves boldness and authenticity pave the way to success. Don’t miss Jenny’s bold journey that inspires everyone to aim higher and achieve their dreams. #successfulagent #customerserviceinrealestate #successfulrealestateagent #realestatesuccessstories #realestatesuccessstories CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:09 - Catching up with Jenny 01:46 - Jenny’s Real Estate Journey 05:38 - Life After High School 06:48 - Working with Family in Real Estate 10:41 - Getting Started in Real Estate 16:14 - Expectations from Jenny's Team 19:50 - Bold Moves in Real Estate 21:14 - Challenges as a Single Mom and Agent 23:20 - Emotional Aspects of Real Estate 26:00 - Collaboration with Jason Wentworth 27:50 - Scarcity Mentality in Sales 32:35 - Weird Experiences Showing Homes 40:48 - Evolving Definition of Success 42:24 - Next Bold Move for Jenny 43:26 - Sci-Fi Interests 49:35 - Inspiration for Boldness 51:05 - Best Advice for Success 54:20 - Tips for Being Bolder 57:05 - Favorite Song 58:40 - Connecting with Jenny 59:04 - Outro Also check out: https://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com Video clips made with Taja AI: https://www.taja.ai/?via=mathew Gear Used: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 - https://amzn.to/48PhbOh TASCAM Mixcast 4 - https://amzn.to/4rP4vP7 SHURE MV7+ - https://amzn.to/4oMvhF6 MAC Studio - https://amzn.to/4pPwJYN GVM LED Lighting - https://amzn.to/4oMyGDE GVM Flexible Light Mat - https://amzn.to/4rRr99m

    59 min
  4. From IT to Chef: The Bold Career Shift That Paid Off for Nate Strickland

    12/02/2025

    From IT to Chef: The Bold Career Shift That Paid Off for Nate Strickland

    Discover how Nate Strickland made the bold career shift "From IT to Chef" that completely transformed his life. In this episode of the Bold Moves Podcast, Mat Torres chats with Nate about his courageous decision to leave the comfort of an IT job for the chaos and creativity of the culinary world. Nate shares how his military and law enforcement background prepared him for the challenges of running his own catering business, navigating risks, and redefining his identity as a private chef. From overcoming the impact of COVID-19 to building relationships with high-profile clients, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, personal growth, and making bold moves. 🎯 Key Takeaways: - Embrace risks to unlock new opportunities and redefine your career. - Learn how military discipline influences leadership and creativity. - Understand the importance of adaptability in overcoming challenges like COVID-19. - Discover how passion and persistence can turn a hobby into a thriving business. Tune in to hear Nate's inspiring story and find out how bold decisions can lead to incredible transformations. Whether you're considering a career change or looking for motivation to take risks, this episode will leave you inspired to make your next bold move. #careerchange #privatecatering #cookingjourney #cheflifestyle #boldmoves CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:18 - Bold Moves Podcast Overview 01:48 - Pivotal Life Moments 07:32 - Chef Career Background 11:19 - Taking Risks in Cooking 12:59 - Jumpstarting a Culinary Business 18:17 - Building a Culinary Team 19:50 - Understanding Sous Chefs 21:42 - Culinary Institute of America Insights 23:58 - Income for Private Chefs 26:42 - Working with Celebrity Clients 29:40 - Risks Beyond Arizona Move 34:25 - Impact of 9/11 on Chefs 43:58 - Costs of Private Events 47:15 - Handling Special Requests 50:25 - Food Cost Considerations 52:50 - Military Discounts for Services 53:52 - Quickfire Culinary Questions 55:43 - Final Thoughts 56:38 - Outro Also check out: https://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com https://youtu.be/cEUOHQrvI2E Video clips made with Taja AI: https://www.taja.ai/?via=mathew

    57 min
  5. Episode 17: Breaking Barriers: How Erica Carpenter Turned Dog Poop into a Business Opportunity

    08/09/2025

    Episode 17: Breaking Barriers: How Erica Carpenter Turned Dog Poop into a Business Opportunity

    🎯 Key Takeaways Core Points: Erica Carpenter transitioned from nearly two decades in construction to founding Pet Waste Management, an eco-friendly pet waste removal service.She emphasized the importance of networking among women in construction through her initiative, Build Hers, which promotes collaboration over competition.Erica’s journey highlights the significance of following one’s passion and not being constrained by societal expectations or the opinions of others.The concept of collaboration within industries fosters community growth and supports female entrepreneurs in overcoming challenges.Both businesses aim for sustainable growth and community connection, with specific goals set for client acquisition and networking events.🔍 Summary Career Transition Erica Carpenter shares her inspiring journey from a 19-year career in construction and general contracting to establishing Pet Waste Management, a service dedicated to eco-friendly pet waste removal. Feeling burnt out and underappreciated in her previous roles, Erica took a bold step by pivoting her career path. The idea stemmed from a light-hearted conversation with her husband years ago about dog waste removal, which ultimately led her to start her own business. She emphasized that working for others was unfulfilling, and she realized the importance of putting her efforts toward her own venture. Build Hers Initiative In addition to her pet waste management business, Erica founded Build Hers, a networking platform designed specifically for women in construction. This initiative aims to create a supportive community where women can connect, share experiences, and collaborate rather than compete. Through Build Hers, Erica has facilitated numerous events that foster camaraderie and networking opportunities among women in various trades, allowing them to learn from one another and build professional relationships. Her approach emphasizes that women in similar industries can benefit from collaboration, which ultimately enhances their businesses. Overcoming Challenges Erica discusses the challenges she faced in her transition, including securing clients and maintaining financial stability. She learned valuable lessons about managing her time and the importance of networking with other local businesses to create mutually beneficial relationships. By offering additional services and being adaptable, Erica navigated the early stages of her business effectively. She recognizes that success is not solely measured by monetary gain but also by the community impact and personal fulfillment derived from helping others. Personal Growth and Advice Erica encourages others to break free from limiting beliefs and societal norms. She advocates for being true to oneself and emphasizes that it is crucial to let go of concerns regarding others’ opinions. Reflecting on her experiences, Erica expresses pride in her achievements and the courage it took to follow her instincts. She inspires others to pursue their passions and assures them that with perseverance and community support, they can achieve their goals, regardless of their background. Connect With Erica Carpenter: Pet Waste Management WebsiteAlso check out: https://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com

    1h 1m
  6. Episode 16 - From Army to Lemonade Empire: Quincy's Bold Move Story

    06/28/2025

    Episode 16 - From Army to Lemonade Empire: Quincy's Bold Move Story

    How does an Army officer transition to building a Lemonade Empire? 🍋 In this episode of "Bold Moves," host Mat Torres sits down with Quincy Milam, owner of Cuties Lemonade and More, to explore his inspiring journey of leaving military life to pursue entrepreneurial success. From National Guard service to mastering the art of fresh-squeezed lemonade, Quincy shares his bold move story, the challenges he faced, and the mindset that turned obstacles into opportunities for personal growth. Join us as Quincy discusses how he built a thriving lemonade business with multiple trucks and storefronts across states, all while navigating setbacks like taxes, scaling operations, and the tough decision to leave a steady military career. Whether you're chasing your own dreams or looking for motivation to take that next big step, this episode is packed with insights on risk-taking, resilience, and creating something truly unique. 🎯 Key Takeaways: - The bold move that sparked Cuties Lemonade and More's success story. - How Quincy leveraged his military background for entrepreneurial growth. - Lessons on overcoming challenges like taxes, scalability, and management. - The power of trusting the process and embracing unexpected life changes. - Practical advice on starting and scaling a business rooted in passion. If you're ready to be inspired by real stories of grit and transformation, this is your episode. Tune in for actionable tips and heartfelt lessons from someone who turned a simple dream into a lemonade empire. 🍋 What bold move will YOU make next? Let us know in the comments! #howtomakeextramoneyinthemilitary #motivationalstory #entrepreneurship #militaryentrepreneurs #transformativepowerofdetermination CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Quincy Milam Introduction 05:02 - Combat Water Survival Training (CWST) 13:57 - Starting a Lemonade Business 21:45 - Cuties Lemonade History 23:40 - Expanding Cuties Lemonade 28:06 - Tippy Cow Lemonade Marketing 30:26 - Tippy Cow Lemonade Future Plans 33:35 - Business Roadblocks 36:15 - Customer Sources for Tippy Cow 40:54 - Overcoming Hard Times 41:01 - Taxes and TPT Insights 49:40 - Finding an Advisor 53:10 - Motivation to Persist 54:30 - Advice for Your Younger Self 01:00:03 - Inspiration for Boldness 01:07:33 - Encouraging Boldness Today 01:09:22 - Best Piece of Advice 01:10:47 - What Did We Miss 01:12:30 - OUTRO - Find Cuties Lemonade

    1h 12m
  7. S1:E15 - How Did Faith Influence Anthony’s Career Leap?

    06/08/2025

    S1:E15 - How Did Faith Influence Anthony’s Career Leap?

    Anthony Bell’s journey into the audio-visual world was not a straight path. From a rocky start to overcoming challenges and embracing faith, he learned that bold moves often lead to unexpected success and fulfillment. Chapter Summary: 00:00 Welcome to the Show 00:26 Anthony’s Journey into AV 02:04 From Installation to Partnership 03:51 The Leap of Faith 06:04 Bold Moves Podcast Overview 06:48 Life Before the Leap 09:29 The Partnership Agreement 10:45 Divine Timing and Guidance 17:07 Catalyst for Change 19:49 Day-to-Day Operations 22:01 The Appeal of Sonos 27:07 The Evolution of Audio Systems 28:57 Networking Made Easy with Eero 30:25 Comparing Networking Solutions 34:02 Understanding Fiber vs. Coax 36:44 Redefining Success 45:15 A Proposal to Remember 49:11 The Journey of Faith 59:56 Embracing Youth and Boldness Featured Quotes: “Success is not just monetary; it’s about having the time to spend with family and experience life.” - Anthony Bell“Fearlessness in decision-making allows you to take action even when risks are present.” - Anthony BellBehind the Story: Anthony discusses how his initial foray into the audio-visual industry was fraught with uncertainty. However, through mentorship, faith, and a desire for a more fulfilling life, he found a path that aligned with his values and goals. Additional Resources: Simon Sinek’s teachings on leadership and motivation“The Chosen” series that depicts biblical storiesConnect With Anthony Bell: Audio-Video360: https://audio-video360.com/Take Action: Reflect on your own definition of success and identify one bold move you can make this week. Share This Episode: “Check out the latest episode of the Bold Moves Podcast featuring Anthony Bell, who shares his inspiring journey in the audio-visual industry!  http://www.boldmovespodcastaz.com 🎙️ #BoldMoves #AudioVisual #Inspiration”

    1h 1m
  8. S1:E14 - The Day Everything Changed: Will Taufa’s Near-Death Story

    06/01/2025

    S1:E14 - The Day Everything Changed: Will Taufa’s Near-Death Story

    🎙️ Episode Summary Join Mat on the Bold News Podcast as he converses with Will and Kevin from Paloma Plumbing. They share their bold journeys into the plumbing industry, discuss pivotal moments that changed their lives, and explore the importance of embracing challenges for personal and professional growth. Career Journey Will Taufa, owner-operator of Paloma Plumbing, reflects on the crucial moment that inspired him to start his own plumbing business. Following the birth of his daughter, Will confronted the stark reality of returning to work merely 48 hours after giving birth, which motivated him to pursue a better work-life balance. He shares his early experiences in the plumbing field, characterized by lengthy hours that hindered family time. This realization became the basis for his aspiration to create a more adaptable career for himself. Life-Altering Experience A transformative incident occurred when Will faced electrocution while working in an attic. This harrowing experience, in which he narrowly escaped death, highlighted the critical importance of safety in his profession. The intervention of his sister and colleague was instrumental in saving him. This event altered his definition of success, leading him to prioritize relationships and personal health over financial rewards. He stresses the necessity for safety measures in the plumbing industry, as many workers may not recognize the potential hazards. Industry Insights The plumbing industry is currently facing a notable shortage of skilled labor, presenting a prime opportunity for younger individuals to enter the profession. Will emphasizes that the demand for plumbers will only rise as seasoned professionals retire. He encourages anyone contemplating a plumbing career to seek guidance, explore educational resources, and understand the possibilities within the trade. Building Relationships and Community Throughout the discussion, Will underscores the importance of relationships in business. He promotes the idea of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their position, and acknowledges the significance of helping others achieve success. His journey illustrates a more profound understanding of success, where personal relationships and a dedication to service take precedence over financial accomplishments. He wraps up by inspiring listeners to take courageous steps and begin their journey towards their aspirations without delay. Behind the Story: Will’s journey into plumbing was marked by a transformative event that highlighted the fragility of life. After experiencing an electric shock while working, he gained a renewed appreciation for family and the relationships that support his business. This moment became a catalyst for change, prompting him to embrace bolder decisions. “Money comes and goes, but the people around you are what matter most.” – Will Talfa“When you focus on helping others, you’ll see results quicker than trying to get results.” – Kevin In This Episode: 00:00 Meet the Guests 01:11 The Bold Move 03:49 The Struggles of Overworking 06:31 The Path to Independence 09:00 Income Potential in Plumbing 11:01 The Stability of Trades 13:00 Changing Perceptions of Trades 18:20 Breaking Points and New Beginnings 20:03 The Reward of Helping Others 25:30 Marketing and Building a Business 29:07 Redefining Success 29:50 A Life-Changing Incident 34:30 Lessons from Adversity 37:01 The Power of Gut Feelings 39:10 Building a Stronger Future 41:02 Advice to the Younger Generation 42:44 Future Aspirations 45:22 Inspiration and Resources 49:06 Final Thoughts and Connections

    51 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Introducing Bold Moves — a series that delves into the exhilarating stories of risk-takers. Join your host Mat Torres and embark on an emotional narrative journey with each guest, uncovering stories filled with suspense, growth, and triumphant success. Designed to inspire both cautious decision-makers and adventurous thrill-seekers, these tales provide wisdom and insight to navigate life's uncertainty. Perfect for anyone eager to learn, laugh, and conquer fear!

Information

  • Creator
    Mat Torres
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bold Moves Podcast
  • Show Website
    Bold Moves Podcast