Small Talk! With Alec Cuenca - Motivation & Mindset Podcast
Small talk, huge impact. Join Alec Cuenca as he brings thought-provoking insights with some of the most inspirational minds in the world. This podcast is for everyone striving to be the best version of themselves. New episodes on Thursdays on Spotify.
Episodes
Life Changing Advice From Entrepreneurs, Creators & Leaders
In this special episode, we bring together some of the most powerful lessons shared from entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders, who have experienced failure, success, heartbreak, healing, and everything in between. Through their stories, they share the life lessons that shaped who they are today.From learning how to embrace failure in your 20s, overcoming the fear of being alone, forgiving yourself
The TRUTH About Forgiveness (Most People Get This Wrong)
In this highlight episode, @pastorjosefzabarte opens up about why he was terrified of becoming a father, how growing up with an abusive and violent father shaped his identity, and why anger and fear nearly convinced him he should never have children at all. He shares the reality of carrying childhood trauma into adulthood, the fear of repeating the same cycle of abuse, and what it was like to live
Ex-Satanist Turned Pastor Talks About Forgiveness, Parenthood, & Faith
In this episode, Pastor Josef shares a story that is almost impossible to believe. Growing up in a home filled with abuse, violence, and fear, he carried a deep hatred toward his father from a very young age. By the age of seven, he had already decided that one day he would kill him. What followed was a life shaped by anger, revenge, and a constant fear of becoming the very man he despised. This c
if you're seeing this, this is your sign to trust the timing of God
today’s episode is about trusting the timing of your life, especially when everything feels uncertain. i share a personal story about hitting another rock bottom, feeling overwhelmed by life and business, and how one unexpected moment completely changed the direction of things.sometimes the breakthrough comes after the breakdown. sometimes the answer comes after you've exhausted every option. and
breaking generational beliefs before my child is born
today’s episode is a really personal one. i’ve been reflecting a lot on the limiting beliefs and generational patterns i don’t want to pass down to my child. as someone preparing to become a first-time dad, i’ve been thinking deeply about trauma, love, failure, and the kind of mindset i want to build in my own family.this episode is less about having all the answers and more about choosing to beco
questions to ask before you hit 30s
welcome to my new solo series where i just talk through what’s been on my mind lately... no guests, no structure, just me trying to make sense of life in real time. it's just me trying to make sense of life in real time. today’s episode is a mid-year reset session. we’re halfway through 2026, and it’s a simple check-in on where you are, what you need to let go of, and what you should double down o
The Lesson Janina Vela Learned After 10 Years of Sharing Online
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 t
Janina Vela Opens Up About Her Content Creation Hiatus, Faith, Politics, And Her Secret Place
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 becom
What Being RICH Actually Gives You with Mikee Reyes
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 a
Why Most People Fail At Content Creation
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 de
Why Family Became His Biggest Source Of Drive And Discipline
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
Why Most Filipino Artists Never Make It Abroad
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 wh
The Real Reason You Can’t Move Forward In Life
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 patter
The Most Common Mistake Filipinos Make with Their Money
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 yo
How to Stop Your Creative Business from Dying
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 gro
The Secret Pattern in Every Creative Who Never Makes It
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
Stop Trying to Keep Up With AI — Here's What to Do Instead
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 alread
From Selling in Divisoria at Age 7 to Running a Philippine AI Startup
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 th
The No. 1 Reason You Can't Find Your Audience (You're Looking in the Wrong Place)
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
Messages God Wants You To Hear
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.
The REAL Reason Most Filipinos Stay In Careers They Hate
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 creativ
A Conversation Every Woman Needs To Hear!
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 wome
If You’re Not Changing, You're Stuck
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
Gen-Z CEO: From ₱20K To 9 Figures.. Here’s What Changed
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 d
22-Year Old Millionaire: This Is Why Your Business Isn’t Growing!
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 conve
The 5 Rules of Content Creation That 97% Of People Don't Know...
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
The Real Cost Of Going Viral Nobody Talks About
In this episode, @aynbernos talks about the full circle conversation about content creation, growth, and identity online. From teaching English, travel vlogging, beauty, fitness, and now creator education, Ayn shares how every version of her online journey led her back to one clear truth.. you are the niche. Not the trend. Not the format. Your perspective is what people stay for.This episode also
The Biggest Mistake People Make While They're Single
In this episode, @giannehinolan talks about the part of singlehood that most people don’t say out loud.. the frustration, the waiting, the loneliness, and the pressure to rush into the next season. But instead of treating singlehood like a punishment, she shares why it can actually become a season of preparation, healing, and deep joy.. if you learn how to live it well.This conversation also goes
How Surrender Can Transform Your Life Forever
In this episode, @giannehinolan shares how she went from creating content for brands to finally building her own platform and how "Medyo Seryosong Podcast" started after years of “waiting for the perfect time.” The conversation goes deeper into what creatives need to grow.. a safe space, supportive people, and the grace to “suck at something.” Gianne also explains how faith became personal fo
The No. 1 Advice That Will Change How You See Your 30s Forever
In this episode, @angelydub talked about evolution. Not the glamorous kind. The uncomfortable kind. The kind where you wake up one day and realize the life you built no longer feels like you.She opens up about learning to feel every emotion in her 30s. Fear. Nervousness. Grief. Excitement. She shares how she used to cope by traveling constantly, how it became part of her identity, and what it felt
The One Fear People Never Admit (And It Runs Their Whole Life)
Angely Dub is a dynamic and successful entrepreneur, content creator, and influencer known for her authenticity and bold personality. She talks about the evolution of her identity, from a fearless 20-year-old who wasn’t scared to try, to the version of her now that’s calmer, clearer, and more grounded. And the reason is simple: self-awareness.This episode also goes into the part most people skip:
Dating Apps Are Making You Disposable, Here's Why...
Dating in 2026 feels different because people are not dating to survive anymore.Standards have shifted. Expectations are louder. Options are endless. And love has become less about “can we make it through” and more about “do you actually add peace to my life.”In this episode, we unpack why more women are choosing to stay single, why success increases temptation for men, and why cheating is rarely
The REAL Reason You Keep Choosing The Wrong Person
In this episode, I sit down with the No.1 Dating Coach, Coach Vee, to discuss how to stop sabotaging your love life. She reveals why chasing that “spark” may be the reason you’re attracting all the wrong people.She explains how to date smarter and why that simple shift in mindset could change the way you approach relationships for good. Plus, discover the REAL reason you keep choosing the wrong pe
The Most Dangerous Habit When You’re Chasing A Dream
Manifestation isn’t just about wishing for something. It’s about staying excited, happy, and inspired.When you stay in a high vibration, that’s when everything starts aligning faster.In this episode, a very special guest, one who's very dear to my heart, my wife, Yani Moya-Cuenca. Yani and I sit down to talk about how to truly manifest your dreams and the importance of staying high vibrational, ev
Stop Setting Goals Like This... You’re Wasting Your Time
Finally had the opportunity to guest the love of my life on my podcast again but this time we're talking about manifestation and how we manifested our dream wedding. If you're looking for a podcast that you and your partner or your future partner would love to listen to, check out our newest episode of @smalltalkpodcasts.Credit: @yanimcuenca x @smalltalkpodcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri
The No. 1 Reason You Can’t Save Money (It’s Not Your Income)
Most people ask, “How do I grow my money?”But the deeper question is who you are being in the process.Money moves like air. It flows toward the person who can hold it with a steady nervous system and a clean relationship with giving and receiving.The reframe here is simple. You are not just earning money, you are the money-making machine. And the way you treat money often mirrors the way you treat
50+ Years of Life Lessons in 140 Minutes
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing “everything right” but still feel stuck, anxious, or secretly exhausted.. this episode is for you.I’m joined again by Coach Russ, my mentor and one of the biggest reasons I started taking transformation seriously. We went deep.. not just into mindset, but into the things people don’t talk about enough: suffering, letting go of approval, money wounds, and why “
Billionaire E-Commerce Expert: Profit Doesn’t Matter If Your Cash Flow Dies
Most businesses don’t fail because they’re unprofitable.They fail because they run out of cash.In Part 2 of this conversation, Steve Sy breaks down the business principles most entrepreneurs overlook.. from why cash flow is the true lifeline of a company, to why chasing revenue without structure leads to collapse.He explains the difference between profit, sales, and cash flow, why many “successful
From ₱32,000,000 in Debt to a ₱1B E-Commerce Business
Steve Sy is one of the most respected names in Philippine e-commerce today. But his success wasn’t built on shortcuts, hype, or overnight wins.In this episode, Steve breaks down why chasing profit alone can actually destroy a business, how most entrepreneurs scale before they’re ready, and why capacity, systems, and purpose matter more than opportunity.He opens up about being ₱32,000,000 in debt a
The Biggest Advice for Your 20s That No One Tells You
In this second part with Carlo Ople, we go beyond business success and talk about purpose, advocacy, faith, and the responsibility that comes with influence.Carlo shares why real impact doesn’t always require running for office.. and how lobbying, content, and entrepreneurship can be powerful tools for national change. From co-founding Creators Against Corruption to building businesses that create
I Worked 30 Minutes a Night for 18 Years — Now I Own 3 Companies
Carlo Ople has built one of the most influential careers in the Philippine digital space.. but his journey didn’t start with success. It started in an internet cafe, a life-or-death moment, and a decision that changed everything.In this episode, Carlo opens up about the night he was held at gunpoint, why he spent 18 years building his business after working 9–5, and how he finally walked away from
Content Creators Are FAILING Because They Don't Know This One Thing...
In this episode, we dive into why formal education on business management, working with brands, and understanding contracts is critical for your success. You might be a content creator, but without this knowledge, you're setting yourself up for failure.Icy shares his insights on the creator economy, how data, AI, and community building will shape the future, and why nurturing a loyal community is
The SECRET About Building A Network That Most People Don't Know About with IC Mendoza
In this episode, Alec sits down with IC Mendoza, a digital marketing entrepreneur and the co-founder of InCircle Inc., the leading talent management agency in the Philippines. IC shares his incredible journey from showbiz to entrepreneurship, offering insights into building a successful business, staying ahead in the influencer world, and finding success through authentic connections.What you’ll l
The SIMPLE (and OBVIOUS) Mistake Business Owners Do that Destroy their Business | Episode 376
In this new episode, Rajiv Talreja breaks down the simple, obvious, and painfully common mistake that quietly destroys most businesses.It’s not the economy.It’s not the competition.It’s not even the lack of skill.It’s the business owner.Rajiv explains why many entrepreneurs unknowingly sabotage their own success—by hiring the wrong people, avoiding uncomfortable decisions, and leading without clar
No. 1 Business Coach in Asia Reveals Why Most Entrepreneurs Stay Small Forever | Episode 375
In this new episode with Alec, Rajiv breaks down the painful truth behind why so many aspiring entrepreneurs never make it past the first stage. Rajiv shares how he became an “entrepreneur by force, not by choice,” and why early praise and empty encouragement almost destroyed his career. Instead of shortcuts and motivational hype, he reveals the real foundations every business owner needs — clarit
30 Years of REAL Financial Advice in 30 Minutes | Episode 374
In this special episode of Small Talk, we break down 30 years of financial lessons into a clear, practical, and honest conversation. No jargon. No hype. Just real wisdom you can apply today.This episode goes beyond earning and saving — it’s about understanding how money affects identity, family, confidence, and the way you move through life. We talk about the mistakes most people don’t realize the
The Real Reason Why You're Poor | Episode 373
In this follow-up episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, Nicole Alba opens up about her journey toward financial independence — and the truth behind growing up privileged yet wanting to build something on her own.From her early years watching her parents work tirelessly to send her and her siblings to school, to realizing how money shapes our choices, Nicole shares a side of success that’s often
Why Nicole Alba Quit YouTube (And Came Back) | Episode 372
In this Small Talk episode, Nicole Alba opens up about what truly happens behind the camera — the burnout, the silence, and the courage it takes to start again. Known for her calm yet insightful voice in the world of personal finance, Nicole reveals what pushed her to take a break at the height of her success, and what it really means to rebuild with intention.She talks about the pressure of alway
Simple Way Of Earning 1 Million From Digital Products | Episode 371
In this Small Talk episode, Cho Lim returns to share the hardest season of his life—a moment when life took away his control and forced him to grow. After years of chasing success and avoiding responsibility, he hit a breaking point that didn’t just hurt him… it changed him.Cho opens up about the identity crisis he hid, the pain he tried to outrun, and the shift from ego to surrender. He reveals t
No. 1 Fitness Expert Debunks The BIGGEST LIES In The Fitness Industry | Episode 370
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec Cuenca sits down with Cho Lim: whose story is not about instant success, but about wasted years, hidden pain, and the one moment that forced him to finally change. Before becoming one of the most influential coaches in the country, Cho spent years drifting with no direction: stuck in comfort, vices, parties, and the belief that “there’s still time.” But everythi
The Hidden Reason Control Is Destroying Your Peace | Episode 369
In this follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec's back with Peng Mendoza to reveal a hard truth about high achievers: the more you try to control everything, the more anxious, restless, and unhappy you become.Peng opens up about the seasons when she was doing everything “right”: working hard, hitting goals, serving people. But yet still feeling empty and disconnected on the inside. She shares how th
Multi-Millionaire Reveals Why A Lot Of Rich People Are Unhappy... | Episode 368
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec Cuenca sits down with Peng Mendoza to expose a hard truth about success: you can be moving up in life… and still feel empty inside.Peng opens up about chasing money, achievements, and recognition, only to realize that progress without purpose leads to burnout. She shares the moments when “winning” didn’t feel like winning, the pressure of always having to prove
The Real Reason Gen Zs Don't Trust Leaders (And How to Win Them Over) with Tina Sioson | Episode 367
In this powerful follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down again with Tina Sioson to explore what modern leadership really looks like — and why the old ways no longer work.From understanding Gen Z and navigating burnout, to finding the balance between control and freedom, Tina shares the lessons that today’s leaders can’t afford to ignore. She dives deep into how leadership has become a pend
Tina Sioson Reveals The Hidden Mistake Companies Make When Promoting Leaders | Episode 366
In this eye-opening episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Tina Sioson to challenge one of the biggest lies in the workplace: that promotions and titles automatically make you a leader.With decades of experience in leadership development, Tina reveals why competence alone won’t make people follow you, how bad promotions create “accidental leaders,” and why character and readiness matter more t
How One Shift Can Completely Redesign The Course Of Your Life with Dennis Sy | Episode 365
In this powerful follow-up episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down again with Dennis Sy to go even deeper into the lessons behind his book Design Your Life.From letting go of weak foundations to anchoring your identity on something eternal, Dennis reveals how true growth requires surrender, why purpose can feel hollow without personhood, and how to escape the trap of living on autopilot.If you’ve ev
Dennis Sy Explains The Real Reason You Feel Stuck And How You Can Break Free | Episode 364
In this new episode of Small Talk , Alec sits down with Dennis Sy to uncover the deeper story behind his health scare, his bestselling book Design Your Life, and the mindset shifts that helped him escape the trap of living on autopilot.From a hospital bed to a life of clarity and purpose, Dennis shares the raw, untold moments — the struggle, the surrender, and the systems he built to reclaim his t
Sam Y.G. Revealed The REAL Reason He Gave Up Fame… And It’s NOT What You Think | Episode 363
In this episode of Small Talk, Sam Y.G. continued uncovering the real reasons behind his biggest career moves: from leaving Boy’s Night Out, to battling burnout, to rebuilding his life with purpose.Sam opens up about the risks, the lessons, and the mindset shifts that helped him move from hustle to intentional growth.Packed with raw honesty, actionable advice, and stories that will resonate with a
From Bullied Kid to Radio Legend: The Untold Journey of Sam YG | Episode 362
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Sam YG to talk about growing up as a bullied kid, navigating identity in a Filipino-Indian household, and the turning point that changed everything.From being teased in grade school to becoming one of the country’s most recognizable radio personalities, Sam shares the real story behind his transformation — the early struggles, the first breaks, an
From Fear To Freedom: Why Walking Away Can Move You Forward With Nica Fabregas | Episode 361
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec continues the deep conversation with Nica Fabregas as she opens up about leaving stability behind, trusting her gut, and choosing to build a career she truly loves. From family interventions to self-doubt, Nica shares how she turned fear into fuel, overcame the pressure to follow the “safe” path, and found confidence in her own journey.Whether you’re thinking of
Nica Fabregas: When My Parents Told Me To Quit My Dreams for a 'Real Job' | Episode 360
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Nica Fabregas to talk about growing up in a faith-centered household, battling mental health struggles, and the courage it took to stand up for herself.From letting go of a “safe” corporate path to pursuing content creation, Nica shares the real story behind her turning points — the quiet breakdowns, the family conversations, and the moments that
How To Handle Hate Without Losing Yourself with Alex Diaz | Episode 359
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Alex Diaz to talk about navigating hate, public criticism, and the noise of social media. From learning humility through starting over, to finding strength in the face of “keyboard warriors,” Alex shares what it really takes to live with resilience.He opens up about his journey in showbiz, the lessons from Bar Boys that mirror his own life, and ho
The Hard Truth About Starting Over with Alex Diaz | Episode 358
What happens when everything you thought you wanted slips away?In this episode of Small Talk, actor and content creator Alex Diaz opens up about losing everything he once worked for, what fame could never give him, and how starting over changed the way he sees life, success, and love.From the pressures of the spotlight to the pain of rebuilding from nothing, Alex shares the raw lessons he’s learne
The Secret To Living Abundantly (Beyond Money) with Russ Juson | Episode 357
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec continues his deep conversation with life coach Russ Juson, diving into the lessons he’s learned about growth, faith, and living a life of purpose.Russ shares why true success isn’t just about money or achievements, but about expanding yourself, embracing new experiences, and staying connected to God. He explains why business failures don’t define you, how growt
Life Coach Russ Juson Explains The Truth About Starting Small And Dreaming Big | Episode 356
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with entrepreneur and coach Russ Juson to talk about life’s lowest points, finding purpose, and what it truly takes to turn pain into power.Russ opens up about the struggles that almost broke him, the realizations that came from rock bottom, and the mindset shift that allowed him to rebuild not just his career, but his life. From letting go of victimho
What Motherhood Taught Me About Life with Prax Yap | Episode 355
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, Prax Yap shares how motherhood completely reshaped her life. From being a go-getter who always wanted control, to learning patience, surrender, and slowing down—Prax opens up about the lessons she never expected to learn as a mom.She also reflects on how her definition of success changed: from chasing milestones and achievements, to simply being pres
The Price of Following Your Passion with Prax Yap | Episode 354
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with Prax Yap to talk about the risks and rewards of choosing passion over money.From walking away from a stable career to carving out a life built on purpose, Prax shares the struggles, doubts, and breakthroughs that came with following what truly matters to her. She opens up about why money alone was never enough, the sacrifices she had to make, and
Jax Reyes on When Hustles Start to Pay Off | Episode 353
From side hustles to doubling money—this episode with Jax Reyes dives deep into the realities of building wealth with intention.Alec and Jax talk about the transition from chasing quick wins to creating lasting financial habits. Jax shares his thoughts on why discipline is the real key to success, how budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive, and why it’s important to spend on what makes you hap
How to Make Your Money Work for You with Jax Reyes | Episode 352
In this episode of Small Talk, Alec sits down with financial content creator Jax Reyes to talk about budgeting, bills, and building a healthy money mindset.From his early money mistakes to the shifts that helped him grow his savings, Jax shares practical steps you can take—whether you’re starting late, struggling to budget, or simply wanting to make your money work smarter.He breaks down why budge
9 Lessons I've Learned Before Turning 29 with Alec Cuenca | Episode 351
Before turning 29, life handed me lessons I didn’t ask for—but needed.In this video, I open up about the quiet fears behind “playing it safe,” letting go of old expectations, and what it really means to want more out of life—more freedom, more purpose, more peace.I talk about money, faith, and the power of choosing what feels true, even when it doesn’t make sense to anyone else. Because sometimes,
Ichan Remigio: Walang Natirang Pera, Pero May Natirang Pangarap | Episode 350
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, we dive deeper into the life of content creator Ichan Remigio—after losing millions, getting fired from his job, and reaching rock bottom.From exerting his best in the urban life just to get by, to creating viral content every hour, Ichan opens up about what it really means to hustle with purpose. He shares how failure sharpened his focus, how conten
Ichan Remigio: Nawalan Ako ng Lahat, Pero Doon Ako Natuto | Episode 349
Small Talk! With Alec Cuenca - Motivation & Mindset PodcastIn this episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, we sit down with Ichan Remigio—content creator, storyteller, and former backend insurance worker turned viral voice online.Before the punchlines and relatable content, Ichan’s journey started with self-doubt, bullying, and the feeling of not being “enough.” He opens up about being told he
Healing, Faith, and the Power of Letting Go with Hannah Dela Rosa | Episode 348
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, we continue the heartfelt conversation with Hannah Dela Rosa—vocal coach, singer-songwriter, and creative mentor—as she shares the next chapter of her journey: walking away from perfectionism and rediscovering her voice through purpose.After spending a decade in choir culture, Hannah found herself burned out, lost, and unsure of who she was outside p
Number One Voice Coach Talks about How Singing Can Save Your Life | Episode 347
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec Cuenca, we sit down with Hannah Dela Rosa, vocal coach, singer-songwriter, and former choir member, for a deeply honest conversation on identity, purpose, and redefining the dream.Hannah opens up about growing up in music, navigating insecurities in the industry, and the painful yet powerful seasons of questioning. She shares how burnout, the pandemic, and a
The TRUTH About Manifestation & God with Maxene Magalona | Episode 346
In the second half of her episode, Maxene Magalona opens up like never before about her faith, healing, and how her personal relationship with God changed the course of her life.She shares how hitting rock bottom led her to complete surrender, and how that moment of brokenness became her breakthrough. From the science of therapy to the spirituality of surrender, Maxene reflects on what it truly me
Maxene Magalona OPENS UP About Her Mental Health, Healing Journey, and How Her Faith Saved Her Pt. 1 | Episode 345
In this episode of SmallTalk with Alec Cuenca, we sit down with Maxene Magalona—actress, yoga teacher, and mental health advocate—for a deeply vulnerable conversation on what real healing looks like.Maxene shares how therapy, yoga, meditation, and daily forgiveness helped her break emotional cycles, reconnect with herself, and live more consciously. She opens up about the power of presence, lettin
Melo Aguilar Talks About His Inner Child, Dealing with College, and Self-Reliance | Episode 344
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec, we sit down with Melo Aguilar to talk about something many of us struggle with—but rarely say out loud: how to take care of ourselves while still figuring life out.Melo shares how college forced him to grow up fast, how reconnecting with his inner child helped him understand himself better, and how self-reliance doesn’t mean doing everything alone.It’s an h
RK Biol talks about Career Crossroads, Grit, and Staying Authentic | Episode 343
In this episode of Small Talk, I sit down with RK Biol to talk about something a lot of us can relate to—career crossroads, self-doubt, and figuring things out while staying true to who you are.RK gets real about the pressure of choosing the “right” path, the grit it takes to keep going, and how he's learned to embrace his own pace. It’s not always easy, but it’s honest. And sometimes, that’s all
Jenny Yeo Talks About Handling Rejection, Her Father, and Keeping Her Faith | Episode 342
In this episode of Small Talk, I had the chance to sit down with Jenny Yeo—and wow, this one’s real, raw, and full of heart.Jenny opens up about the many rejections she’s faced on her journey, the pain of losing her dad, and how she’s managed to keep showing up with faith and authenticity in an industry that can easily make you lose both.We talk about grief, purpose, and what it takes to stay grou
Nate Javier Opens Up About Makeup, Online Hate, and What Keeps Her Going | Episode 341
In this episode of Small Talk with Alec, content creator and beauty enthusiast Nate Javier opens up about her journey with makeup, navigating the pressures of online hate, and the inner strength that keeps her moving forward. 💄💬From the joy of creative self-expression to the challenges of being vulnerable on the internet, Nate shares honest insights on staying true to yourself—both online and off.
Setting Boundaries and Sacrifices Being A Mom with Mika Alcause | Episode 340
In this episode of Small Talk, I’m joined by Mika Alcause for a real and refreshing conversation about life transitions, boundaries, and choosing your own path. 🎙Mika shares her story—from navigating her career path, to stepping into motherhood, and learning how to set healthy boundaries (even when it’s not easy). We also talk about why it’s okay not to be friends with everyone you work with, and
