Shows
Breaking the MoldWhy Most People Will Never Be Seen — And How Raj Kotecha Builds Brands That Cut ThroughWhat does it take to build a brand that’s global, rooted, and unmistakably you?In this episode of Breaking the Mold, I sit down with Raj Kotecha — global brand strategist and founder of Creative Content Agency — whose clients include Gary Vee, Tony Robbins, Steven Bartlett, and the Dubai Future Foundation.We talk about identity, influence, and building a brand that cuts through the noise in 2025.Highlights: • Why “being Indian is like winning the lottery” • The generational playbook behind brown excellence • Raj’s season of sleeping...
2025-07-211h 26
Breaking the MoldUnderstanding Narcissism: Healing from Toxic Relationships with Dr. Emily BlakeHow do you break free from a toxic relationship? How do you recognize the warning signs before it’s too late? In this deeply insightful episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Blake to uncover the truth about narcissistic behaviors, emotional manipulation, and the journey to healing.If you’ve ever found yourself questioning someone’s intentions, feeling stuck in a cycle of confusion and self-doubt, or wondering why a relationship doesn’t feel right, this conversation is for you. Dr. Blake shares her expertise on narcissistic traits—like love bombing, breadcrumbing, and trauma bonding—and explains...
2025-02-251h 17
Breaking the MoldOvercoming Imposter Syndrome as a Creative with Chris B. StationImposter syndrome is a challenge nearly every creative faces at some point. In this candid and empowering episode, we dive deep into the heart of self-doubt, exploring the struggles of questioning your abilities while striving to find your true voice in a competitive industry.Join the conversation as we unpack:The truth about imposter syndrome in the creative worldPersonal stories of self-doubt and resilienceWhy feeling like an impostor might mean you’re growingPractical strategies for building confidence without losing authenticityWhether you’re an artist, filmmaker, or creative professional, this episode provides actionable insi...
2025-01-071h 04
Breaking the MoldWhy Success Doesn't Mean Selling Out: Lessons from Corey Shaprio🎉 Excited to bring you an inspiring episode with the legendary Cory Shapiro, founder of Vintage Frames Company! 🚀 This conversation dives deep into why staying true to your values is essential, and how you can achieve success without compromising on authenticity.In this episode, Cory shares:Real insights on staying grounded and embracing success on your own terms 💪Why rejecting societal norms can fuel a fulfilling and unique journey 🌟Balancing artistic expression with business goals while staying true to yourself 🎨Personal stories on overcoming obstacles and building unshakeable confidence 📖How luxury can be accessible without sacrificing style and substance 💎...
2024-12-031h 07
Breaking the MoldSecret to Success: Embrace Change and Pivot with Adonis Harrison Jr.In this powerful episode of Breaking the Mold, we sit down with Adonis Harrison Jr.—a fitness trainer, U.S. Air Force veteran, and resilient leader—to uncover the transformative power of embracing change and redefining life’s expectations. Adonis opens up about key moments that shaped his journey, from balancing a demanding athletic career with personal growth to confronting mental health challenges and societal pressures.Together, we delve into the mental and emotional strength required in the fitness world, the art of avoiding overtraining, and what it truly means to adapt when life throws you off course...
2024-11-111h 03
Breaking the MoldThe Path of Discernment with Actress Andria B. LangstonWelcome back to the Breaking the Mold podcast!Today, I’m excited to be speaking with actress, writer, and producer Andria B. Langston.In this episode, we explore:The business of actingAn inside look at Andria's journeyThe essential mindsets neededPractical tips for newcomersWhen I moved to LA, I struggled to find honest information about what pursuing this dream truly entails—not just the highlight reels on Instagram or interviews with A-list celebrities, but the real, day-to-day grind and insights.We also delve into topi...
2024-05-2153 min
Breaking the MoldBuilding an Authentic Brand,Life and Network with Levi OzzyWelcome back to breaking the mold podcast, the show where I speak to artists and creative entrepreneurs that broke the mold and built a life on their own terms. Today im speaking to a podcast host i looked up to way before i started my own. Levi ozzy the host of Creative Ambiance. A show that highlights creatives in Los Angeles with the goal of sharing codes through conversation.In this episode, we talk about: Breaking the mold on traditional networking. And moving from a transactional mindset to a...
2024-03-141h 13
Breaking the MoldHow to Cultivate and Operate with Unstoppable Self BeliefToday, I’m talking to my friend Bantu. He’s from Zimbabwe, based in LA. He’s a singer, producer, writer, and Grammy nominee. He’s written and produced for people like ASAP Rocky, Chris Brown, and French Montana. He has a Grammy nominated song with Nicki Manij, which also a part of the animated Spider-Man movie. He has placements in FiFA, fast and furious, and the list goes on with the things he’s been able to achieve. But the title of this episode is based on mindset because it’s truly what this all really stems from. An...
2024-02-061h 09
Breaking the MoldHealing Trauma with Allison BaggAllison Bagg is a sound healer, breathwork facilitator, intuitive guide, and artist based in Los Angeles. She utilizes many modalities to help clients penetrate their bodies, establish strong boundaries, and open portals to the magic and abundance within.That was a description I found of Allison in one of the many article write-ups about her, and I just loved the way they encapsulated what she does along with some of her magical essence. Allison is one of LA's leading sound bath facilitators, and that’s how I found her. Sou...
2024-01-291h 15
Breaking the MoldArt, Spirituality and Creating Change with Artist ShepNorth Carolina-born, LA-based Shep is an artist who “creates a compilation of stories. These are tales of cultural pain, paint strokes channeling beauty we see daily, with colors reflecting the human and spiritual experience.” Known for his murals of Salvador Dali, Rihanna, and the late Kobe Bryant, Shep defies the odds of what society told us was possible by creating his own life and lane through his art. In this episode, we touch on ideas like: Perfectionism Observing if something is an obstacle or misalignment His view on talent Relearning how to be happy while crea...
2023-12-271h 14
Breaking the MoldHabits, Systems and Goal Tracking with Tess TrotterI am so excited to share this episode with the one and only Tess Trotter. As best friends and business partners, this one is special. We dive into the inner workings of goal setting, habits, and systems for life and business. This episode was inspired by the book Atomic Habits, our takeaways, and the motivation behind the daily planner we created, The Dream Maker Planner. Tess Trotter Alysa ScanzanoPodcast: @breakingthemoldpod🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold Host: @alysa_scanzano Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod 🎥...
2023-12-1847 min
Breaking the MoldHow to turn songwriting into a career with Hayley Gene PennerHayley Gene Penner is a singer-songwriter and author of the book “People You Follow,” a memoir she wrote documenting the inner workings and experience pursuing music in LA. Along with putting out her albums, she’s also written and created songs with some of my absolute favorite artists like @SabrinaClaudio, @AlinaBaraz, and @SineadHarnett.And to give you further insight into her memoir “ “People You Follow”, people like @lenadunham described it as: “ A fucked up Alice in Wonderland journey down the rabbit hole of LA’s most subtly toxic...
2023-12-111h 03
Breaking the MoldHow to Embrace Who You Are and Start Living Out Loud with Rubina BernabeRubina Bernabe is a true example of what it means to live authentically and challenge the norm. In our conversation, Rubina opens up about her path to self-love and how she’s woven her passion for travel into her life and professional journey.Rubina reflects on her transition from traditional career expectations to carving out a path that's uniquely hers. We explore her film work, commitment to inspiring others through self-growth workshops, and her approach to living life outside of society's boxes.Follow the podcast @breakingtheoldpod...
2023-12-041h 06
Breaking the MoldAi and Creativity with Will NicholsWill Nichols is an artist and creative entrepreneur. Having made his name in photography, fine art, Web3, furniture space, and much more.The best way to describe him, and the first hook that intrigued me, is he’s someone who “makes ideas come to fruition no matter the industry or medium.” A simple sentence. But a life and creative philosophy that holds so much weight.Will is an amazing example of someone who refuses to live within the boxes. And I'm excited to share this episode. Will gets into:The importance of betting on yoursel...
2023-06-291h 01
Breaking the MoldDivine Femininity and Living in Flow with Ani BIn this episode, I talk to Ani B. She’s the co-host of the new but fast-growing podcast In Flow. Ani started her podcast this year in January 2023 and has almost 70k followers on TikTok. Some videos get more than a million views. But the most impressive thing about it is her commitment, consistency, and belief in her vision. I know firsthand how hard putting together a podcast can be when trying to do as much as possible on your own. But Ani made her decision and committed to the...
2023-06-2352 min
Breaking the MoldDivine Femininity and Living in Flow with Ani BIn this episode, I talk to Ani B. She’s the co-host of the new but fast-growing podcast In Flow. Ani started her podcast this year in January 2023 and has almost 70k followers on TikTok. Some videos get more than a million views. But the most impressive thing about it is her commitment, consistency, and belief in her vision. I know firsthand how hard putting together a podcast can be when trying to do as much as possible on your own. But Ani made her...
2023-06-2252 min
Breaking the MoldRest is the Revolution with Iman BenetIman Benet is a Culinary Artist, Writer, and Human Rights Activist. In this episode, we talk about: Healing and raising your vibration through food Tuning and listening to your intuition How changing your environment can change your life How rest and a calm nervous system is the revolutionIman curates and cooks for intimate dinners in LA that give back, give a farmer a seat at the table, and create a space for community and connection, all while tasting food that contributes to healing from within.
2023-06-151h 03
Breaking the MoldBeliving in your Vision with "Eyes"@createdbyeyes is a director, photographer, musician, owner of the LA-based agency @hueperiod, @sacredsmokeincense, and overall creative. I was excited to speak to Carrington because he’s one of the few people I know who doesn’t hold back when executing on his dreams. I’ve seen him think of something one day and execute it the next. Being someone who can take years ( this podcast as example) to build up the courage and confidence to execute on a dream I have, I really wanted to have this conversation to hear abo...
2022-10-201h 03
Breaking the MoldHow to make happiness sustainable with Tess TrotterIn this episode, I’m talking to my best friend, Tess Trotter. Tess is the founder and CEO of CEP Communications. A creative marketing agency that focuses on social media marketing, branding, and all things that facilitate creative online marketing. She founded the company in 2016 after getting fired from her corporate job. While the business has grown exponentially over the years, her original motivation was just to create enough income to support her pursuit of an acting career. In this episode, Tess talks about her journey from Georgetown University to her...
2022-09-011h 18
Breaking the MoldHow to turn your music into a business with Lilianna WildeLilianna Wilde is a singer-songwriter. Based in LA and from Toronto, Lillanna has a really interesting and inspiring story. Originally going to business school and determined to do something entrepreneurial, making the switch to pursue something creative meant having a business plan and strategic approach to all facets, including branding, marketing, and outreach herself. Lilliana gets honest about the failures she experienced trying out different fields before she landed on music, including film school, fashion school, and acting. Highlights of this episode include:
2022-08-181h 25
Breaking the MoldWhat it takes to be an entrepreneur with the founder of Popular Demand: Blake RicciardiIn this episode, I got to speak to entrepreneur and founder of Popular Demand, Blake Ricciardi. Some of the things we go over in this episode include:Not attaching your identity to your hustle when you’re buildingHow to make people care about your product/businessThe nature of entrepreneurship Follow Blake's journey @blakericciardiBreaking the Mold Podcast🎧 Stay connected with Breaking the Mold Host: @alysa_scanzano Podcast: @breakingthemoldpod TikTok: @breakingthemoldpod 🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Breaking the Mold 🔗 Subscribe on...
2022-08-0452 min
Breaking the MoldHealing from within and tapping into your highest potential with Thalia Ayres RandolphThalia Ayres Randolph is a Toronto-born, LA-based multidisciplinary healer specializing in meditation, sound healing, reiki, yoga, EOL doula, and spiritual mentorship. Since beginning her journey into this space in 2013, Thalia has grown a robust client list known for working with celebrity clientele and being featured on CNN, ABC, FOX, and Keeping Up with the Kardashians.If you look into Thalia’s background, you’ll realize there’s a consistent message she stands behind and is trying to spread, “ to ignite seeds of light within the hearts of every living being.” A...
2022-07-2847 min
Breaking the MoldEstablishing direction and figuring out what you love with Kevin RossKevin Ross is an American Muay Thai fighter and kickboxer who’s also competed in professional boxing, shootboxing, MMA, San Shou, and held the title of Bellator’s kickboxing featherweight world champion.He's the former Inaugural Bellator Kickboxing Featherweight (145 pounds) world champion, WMC super lightweight (140 pounds) intercontinental champion, Super lightweight (140 pounds) WBC International championship Title, the Welterweight (147 pounds) WBC USA National championship Title, the FIDAM Welterweight (147) championship of Mexico and the United States Muay Thai Federation super lightweight (140 pounds) champion.I first heard Kevin speak when he was on Joe Rogan’s podcast. I don’t...
2022-07-211h 10
Breaking the MoldLetting your purpose evolve with Nicole AzerIn this episode, I’m talking to Nicole Azer. She is the CEO and founder of her creative agency Not Applicable LA. And she’s also the co-creator of Fine Four Now. Which is a community she developed with her best friend. And it’s a place where people come and they have discussions about books, meditations, personal growth, healing. It’s a place to be heard and to hear others and hopefully grow through the experience. It’s actually how I found her. I was watching her Instagram lives and you’ll hear us talking about that in...
2022-07-141h 02
Breaking the MoldLetting your purpose evolve with Nicole AzerIn this episode, I’m talking to Nicole Azer. She is the CEO and founder of her creative agency Not Applicable LA. And she’s also the co-creator of Fine Four Now. Which is a community she developed with her best friend. And it’s a place where people come and they have discussions about books, meditations, personal growth, and healing. It’s a place to be heard and to hear others and hopefully grow through the experience. It’s actually how I found her. I was watching her Instagram lives and you’ll hear us talki...
2022-07-141h 02
Breaking the MoldWhat it takes to be a successful streamer with FIFA Creator & Host ChuBoiChukwuma Morah, professionally known as ChuBoi, is a Presenter, Esports host, Streamer, and Social Media Influencer based in Toronto, Canada. Chu has become the face of the FIFA & FIFA Esports in North America, hosting the eCandian Premier League while also venturing into Europe, working with the English FA and La Liga.Chu started out working for EA SPORTS, managing the FIFA community, but since leaving, he has built an incredible social following of over 1.1 million fans. He has also developed a presenting portfolio, including hosting events for the Adidas T...
2022-07-071h 11
Breaking the MoldThe Business of Art with Deconstructive Pop Artist: Matt GondekMatt Godek is an international artist known for his deconstructive pop art paintings, murals, sculptures, and toys. In this episode, we talk about:Why he creates the art he does Breaking down the meaning behind his shows (consistently sold out and exhibited in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Bangkok, and Hong Kong.) His new show “Discipline.” Art being a team effortWhy he likes working and selling his art through galleries How he got started with NFT’s and his view on the industryThe business of art The metaverse and what tha...
2022-06-2942 min
Breaking the MoldCreating your own rules with Morgan Harper NicholsMorgan Harper Nichols is an artist and poet whose work is inspired by real-life interactions and stories. The creator of the online store Garden24, founder of the app “Storyteller'', podcast host, musician, visual artist, and poet with an Instagram following of almost 2 million people. Morgan is also the author of 5 books, including the WSJ Bestseller“ All Along You Were Blooming” and her latest anticipated addition, “ Peace is a Practice.” She’s also collaborated and has featured work in Target, Starbucks, Anthropologie, Athleta, Aerie, Barnes & Noble, TJ Maxx, and more.In this episode, M...
2022-06-2953 min
Breaking the MoldStreetwear and food concepts with the founder of After's Ice Cream: Andy NguyenAndy Nguyen is a serial entrepreneur who’s made noise in various industries, including real estate, streetwear, and the food and beverage industry. But he might be most well known as the “mash-up king in the food industry, ” as described by the Food Network. Or the face and founder behind the wildly successful “ Afters Ice Cream.” With 30 locations in Southern California, Afters Ice Cream isn’t only one of its kind in its approach to business, branding, flavors, decor, and more. They’re also a social media phenomenon, with thousands of people regularly lining up for their sto...
2022-06-281h 02