Creative Minds.

Unfiltered Stories.

Unexpected Truths.

In this series, we step out of the spotlight and into the shade - to have conversations and uncover real stories behind topics like brand-building, creative thinking, entrepreneurialism, music and entertainment, and the interesting characters who shape them.

FEATURED EPISODE

EP 008 - Mathew bowyer

He’s currently serving his federal prison sentence… Illegal bookmaker, jiu-jitsu dad, and unapologetic high-rolling gambler, Matt Bowyer pulls back the curtain on million-dollar Mondays, counting cards, and the FBI raid that upended his life. He talks losses, trolls, restitution, and why he’s turning chaos into purpose with his new book Recalibrate, a documentary, and motivational speaking. All while preparing for his prison sentence and focusing on family, mindset, and a legal comeback.

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  • EP018 - Chris Conte

    EP018 - Chris Conte

    Former NFL safety Chris Conte joins Shady Characters to talk about growing up in Hollywood, chasing football dreams to the NFL, and life after the league. From locker room legends and “The White Unicorn” nickname to raising kids, coaching young athletes, and building community in San Juan Capistrano, Chris opens up about competition, family, and the next generation of sport.

  • EP 016 - Howard Hart

    EP 016 - Howard Hart

    Retired Naval Intelligence Captain and San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Howard Hart joins Shady Characters to talk about leadership, service, and the day that changed everything — September 11, 2001. From near-miss moments inside the Pentagon to championing human trafficking reform and community projects back home, Hart shares lessons in resilience, humility, and what it truly means to serve.

  • EP 014 - Nicole DaCosta

    EP 014 - Nicole DaCosta

    Leadership and people strategist Nicole DaCosta joins Shady Characters to talk about the power of human connection in a remote world, building authentic culture inside fast-growth companies like Rivian, and redefining success beyond the corporate ladder. From hospitality roots to high-tech leadership, Nikki D shares warmth, wisdom, and her signature approach to helping people “flex their muscle” for growth.

  • EP 013 - Matt Schnitzer

    EP 013 - Matt Schnitzer

    From the chair at King’s Club Barbers to changing lives across Mexico, Matt Schnitzer has built Barbers for Baja into a movement of purpose, community, and connection. What started as a small toy drive has grown into a nonprofit funding college scholarships, hosting medical and dental clinics, and giving entire towns access to care.

  • EP 012 - Christian Hernandez

    EP 012 - Christian Hernandez

    Mortgage pro Christian Hernandez joins Shady Characters to unpack “leverage” the right way—tech, finance, and relationships—plus why small, nimble teams win, how buyers can navigate today’s rates, and why serving people (not pipelines) is the only durable strategy. We also get into his family’s roots, mentoring the next gen, and a rad ocean-conservation project.

  • EP 011 - Pete Stirling

    EP 011 - Pete Stirling

    Skout’s Honor CEO Pete Stirling joins Shady Characters to share how a surfer-turned-startup founder built the pet-wellness brand from the ground up. Discover how spotting a niche, disrupting trade-show norms (yes, a keg in the booth), and treating pets as companions—not chores—led to millions of meals donated and a brand that stands out.