Josh Halu is the Founder and CEO of Sacred Soldier, an organization on a mission to revolutionize veteran mental health through holistic healing practices.

A decorated U.S. Army aviation officer and former Black Hawk helicopter pilot, Josh served in Afghanistan before embarking on his own battle with PTSD. His journey of resilience and discovery led him to psychedelics—not as a quick fix, but as a doorway to deeper healing. Through Sacred Soldier, he’s creating transformative spaces where veterans confront their trauma, reclaim their stories, and rebuild with purpose.

In this raw and inspiring episode of Pursue Vegas, Josh takes us behind the scenes of his evolution—from navigating the physical and emotional battlefield to leading veterans through powerful ayahuasca retreats. “Psychedelics aren’t the answer—they’re the door that opens your path to healing and truth,” Josh says.

But this conversation isn’t just about psychedelics. It’s about the courage to rewrite your narrative and lead others to do the same. “True transformation doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a process of taking action and showing up for yourself and your community,” adds Dave.

Surprisingly, Las Vegas plays a unique role in this story. Known for its bright lights and indulgence, the city is evolving into a hub for spiritual connection and holistic growth. “The desert teaches abundance and opportunity—Las Vegas is the perfect place to grow spiritually and emotionally,” Josh explains.

Through heartfelt stories and candid insights, this episode is a testament to the ripple effect of healing—how addressing personal trauma doesn’t just change one life but inspires a wave of transformation in others. Whether you’re a veteran, an entrepreneur, or someone ready to take the first step toward healing, Josh’s story will leave you motivated to bet big on yourself.

Key Takeaways:

• Healing as Leadership: Josh’s story demonstrates how personal transformation can inspire purpose-driven leadership in others.
• Psychedelics in Mental Health: Sacred Soldier uses ayahuasca and other integrative modalities to help veterans heal and achieve breakthroughs in mental health.
• Las Vegas as a Healing Hub: Las Vegas is evolving into a destination for holistic wellness and personal growth, redefining its cultural narrative.
• The Ripple Effect of Healing: Personal healing paves the way for creating meaningful connections and building a stronger, more compassionate community.

Resources:

• Sacred Soldier Website
• Instagram: @sacredsoldierretreats
• Book: No More Mr. Nice Guy - Robert A Glover
• Community Groups: Radiance Events, Wolf PAC, Revive Community, 963

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Jon Orlando, the creative force behind the Action Junkeez Podcast, is a pioneer in podcasting, storytelling, and entrepreneurial innovation in Las Vegas. A seasoned podcaster with collaborations including industry leaders like David Meltzer, Jon has built a platform that celebrates authenticity and connection in a city known for its glitz and glamour.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Jon shares his journey from navigating the vibrant streets of Vegas to becoming a respected voice in podcasting. He opens up about his early days, the challenges of building a brand, and why he believes podcasting is the future of business storytelling.

“Vegas isn’t just the Strip—it’s a hub of creativity and opportunity waiting to be tapped,” Jon says, highlighting the city’s growing role as a playground for entrepreneurs and creatives.

Through humor and heartfelt anecdotes, Jon explores the evolution of Las Vegas, emphasizing its transformation into a thriving hub for sports, entertainment, and innovation. “Vegas has so much money from casinos and big marketing budgets; it’s a playground for creatives and entrepreneurs,” he adds.

Jon’s insights go beyond podcasting, offering listeners a masterclass in resilience, adaptation, and authenticity. “The ability to adapt is what separates the good from the great,” he reflects, reminding us all of the power of staying true to our vision while navigating life’s inevitable pivots.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasting as the Future: Jon explains why podcasting is a game-changer for businesses, likening its rise to the boom of mobile apps a decade ago.
• Vegas as a Creative Hub: Discover how Las Vegas is evolving beyond its reputation, becoming a center for entrepreneurship and creative innovation.
• Authenticity Wins: Jon emphasizes the importance of raw, unscripted conversations in building genuine connections.
• Adapting to Change: His journey highlights the power of resilience and staying relevant in a fast-changing industry.

Resources:

• Follow Jon Orlando: Instagram
• Check out Action Junkeez Podcast: Listen Here

If you’re ready for stories that combine grit, humor, and the unmistakable spirit of Las Vegas, this is the episode for you. And yes—sorry, Mike Kim, we ran out of time!

Share it with a friend, a creator, or that one person who’s “thinking about starting a podcast.” You know the one.

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Juan Quinones is a visionary entrepreneur, luxury drone pilot, travel influencer, and the founder of Luxy Drone, a leading company in luxury real estate and innovative drone videography. Based in Las Vegas, Juan has transformed the drone industry by creating immersive content that has garnered millions of views online. Through his groundbreaking work with high-profile events and luxury brands, he has positioned himself as a leader in the creator economy.

Beyond his stunning visual content, Juan runs a thriving community dedicated to teaching aspiring drone pilots how to fly and build successful businesses. “My mission is to help at least 100 drone pilots hit their first $1,000 from flying FPV drones,” he shares. His educational program has already helped students, including a 12-year-old, earn their first income through drones.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Juan revisits his humble beginnings shooting wedding videos and shares how he built Luxy Drone into a global brand that serves luxury real estate and high-profile events. The conversation dives into Juan’s creative process, his journey to mastering FPV drone technology, and his approach to creating viral content. “What’s really fascinating about creating is that sometimes, it’s like an idea just gets downloaded to you from the universe,” Juan explains.

Juan also discusses the challenges and opportunities of Las Vegas’s evolving creator economy. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition in fostering a supportive creative community. “It’s collaboration, not competition. The people at the top are collaborating. There’s no one competing at the top,” he notes.

Looking to the future, Juan shares his vision for making Las Vegas a hub for innovative content creators, with projects like Warner Brothers’ upcoming studio positioning the city as a global creative force. “Vegas is becoming the second Hollywood, and I want to put my flag here for Luxy Drone,” he says.

Key Takeaways

• Transforming Drone Videography: Juan redefines how luxury real estate and high-end brands leverage drones for captivating media.
• Empowering Creators: His training program helps aspiring drone pilots turn their passion into profit.
• Innovative Storytelling: Juan merges technology and artistry to create immersive, brand-elevating content.
• Collaboration Over Competition: He champions unity in Las Vegas’s creative scene to foster greater success.
• Las Vegas as a Creative Hub: Juan sees Vegas becoming a global leader in content creation, rivaling Hollywood.

Resources

• Follow Juan on Instagram: @juancquinones
• Learn about Juan's Drone Training Program: @fpvcreators
• Book Mentioned: The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Paul Roberson is a serial entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Flo Technology, the innovative company behind Flo Unleashed, a groundbreaking 360° athletic performance training system.

Renowned for his ability to turn disruptive ideas into reality, Paul has made significant strides across industries, from law enforcement to technology. His entrepreneurial journey is defined by a passion for problem-solving and community impact. “You have to be passionate about solving problems. As long as you become passionate about solving problems, you can work in any industry,” he shares.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Paul recounts his journey from college football and law enforcement to revolutionizing athletic performance training. Along the way, he played a pivotal role in bringing Lyft to Las Vegas, helping establish the ride-sharing giant in the city.

Paul delves into the critical role of emotional intelligence and mentorship in shaping both his personal and professional growth. “Once you decide to fight, you learn that the war is within yourself, but in life, there are thousands of battles,” he reflects.

He also shares powerful insights from his time in Tony Hsieh’s Airstream community, highlighting the late entrepreneur’s unique approach to investing in people. “Tony invested in people. We don’t have another Tony right now in the ecosystem that’s able to have that mindset,” Paul explains.

As a passionate advocate for collaboration over independence, Paul emphasizes the importance of unity in fostering Las Vegas’s entrepreneurial growth. “Our ceiling is our children’s floor. We have to build a foundation for them to take things even higher,” he says.

This episode offers invaluable lessons on innovation, resilience, and the power of community, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders alike.

Key Takeaways

• Entrepreneurial Journey: Paul shares his transition from college football to entrepreneurship and his role in bringing Lyft to Las Vegas.
• Innovative Solutions: The significance of problem-solving in business, as demonstrated by Flow Unleashed and Float Technology.
• Community & Collaboration: The need for collaboration in Las Vegas’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with continued influence from Tony Hsieh’s legacy.
• Personal Growth: How personal experiences shaped Paul’s approach to business and his philosophy on life.
• Future Aspirations: Paul’s vision for fostering a unified community and building a foundation for future generations.

Resources

• Flo Technology: Learn about Flo Unleashed
• Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill: A key book that influenced Paul’s entrepreneurial mindset.
• Follow Paul on LinkedIn: Paul Roberson

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Jake Gallen is the CEO of Emblem Vault, a leading cryptocurrency company, and host of the acclaimed Jake’s Guest List podcast. A Las Vegas native with a rich entrepreneurial background, Jake has built ventures ranging from an antique store to a ticket verification app, showcasing his innovative mindset and commitment to his hometown.

With roots in hospitality and a passion for technology, Jake has become a prominent voice in crypto education and innovation, driving discussions about the future of Las Vegas’s economy and culture.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Jake shares how launching his podcast during the pandemic reshaped his career. “The traditional media world was changing, and I noticed that most of the emerging power players in the world all had a podcast,” he reflects.

Jake also offers candid insights into Las Vegas’s unique opportunities, including the vital role of women in its economy. He quips, “Women are the most important people in the city. The Strip would not work if women disappeared, but if all the men disappeared, I think it would run fine.”

The conversation explores bold ideas, such as the economic potential of formalizing the sex work industry: “Vegas, to me, it's such an easy layup if we expand what sex work means and create a district around that.”

Jake’s forward-thinking vision highlights how Las Vegas can continue evolving as a leader in tech, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

This conversation offers a fresh perspective on what it takes to thrive in Vegas while shaping the future of tech and innovation in the city.

Key Takeaways

• From Nightlife to Crypto Leadership: Jake shares how launching a podcast during the pandemic paved the way for his rise as a leader in cryptocurrency.
• Vegas as a Startup Ecosystem: The city’s unique blend of entertainment, hospitality, and tech creates unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs.
• Empowering Women in Vegas: Jake highlights the indispensable role of women in sustaining and driving the Strip’s economy.
• Economic Potential in Regulation: Legalizing and formalizing the sex work industry could unlock significant economic opportunities.
• The Future of Education in Vegas: A specialized, industry-aligned education system could better support the city’s core sectors of hospitality and tech.
• Vegas and Crypto: Jake explains how the city’s entrepreneurial mindset and tech-forward initiatives are positioning it as a leader in cryptocurrency adoption.

Resources

• Jake Gallen’s Website: jakegallen.com
• Follow Jake on Twitter: @JakeGallen_
• Learn About Emblem Vault: emblem.pro

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Ikram Mansori serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Vets in Tech, a pioneering organization committed to helping veterans and military spouses transition seamlessly into rewarding tech careers. As a military combat veteran and business PhD, Ikram combines her firsthand experience and strategic expertise to empower veterans through innovative programs focused on education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

With free training and certifications that don’t require tapping into veterans’ GI Bill benefits, Vets in Tech stands at the forefront of bridging the gap between military experience and opportunities in the tech sector. “We’re not just helping veterans find jobs; we’re helping them build meaningful, sustainable careers in tech,” Ikram emphasizes.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Ikram shares her personal journey from military service to tech leadership, offering insights into how Vets in Tech is addressing critical issues such as the decline in veteran entrepreneurship and the importance of fostering an inclusive tech ecosystem in Nevada. “The military spends millions of dollars training us. We have so many skills that make for great tech employment and entrepreneurship,” she explains.

From the leadership lessons she honed in the military to her vision for expanding veteran representation in the tech industry, Ikram delivers a compelling conversation packed with actionable advice and inspiration for veterans and their families ready to take the next step.

Whether you’re a veteran exploring new career opportunities, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a member of the growing Las Vegas tech community, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical takeaways to help you succeed.

Key Takeaways:
Tech Career Transitions: Vets in Tech offers free training and certifications to help veterans and military spouses enter roles like program management, cybersecurity, and software development.
Reviving Veteran Entrepreneurship: Programs like VetCap provide veterans with resources and mentorship to start and grow businesses.
Leadership as an Asset: Military training equips veterans with problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience, making them ideal for tech leadership roles.
Expanding Nevada’s Tech Scene: Partnerships with companies like Amazon and DraftKings create more opportunities for veterans in Nevada's growing tech sector.
Building Inclusive Communities: Collaboration across public and private sectors is key to fostering a supportive, inclusive tech ecosystem.

Resources

• Vets in Tech Website: vetsintech.co – Learn more about their free programs for veterans.
• Follow Ikram Mansori on LinkedIn: Ikram Mansori

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Tori Gordon is the founder and CEO of Revive Las Vegas, a holistic healing center offering virtual education and transformative in-person experiences through heart-centered leadership and community building.

A Trauma-Informed Breathwork Facilitator, Ceremonialist, and Self-Mastery Coach, Tori works with individuals and organizations to catalyze massive transformation, guiding them to heal core wounds and transcend trauma through methods like subconscious reprogramming, nervous system regulation, and sacred plant medicine integration.

In addition to leading Revive, Tori hosts The Coachable Podcast, a top-ranked podcast in the education space, and was named one of TikTok’s Top 100 Female Creators in 2022. With her engaging and heartfelt content reaching over a million people worldwide, she collaborates with brands like NatureMade, BetterHelp, and Athletic Greens, and has been featured on major media outlets like NBC, Fox News, CBS, and Business Insider.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, Tori shares her journey from personal loss to empowerment, describing the resilience and self-trust that have defined her path. “Life asks me, how much do you trust me?” she reflects, emphasizing the need to face discomfort to achieve true healing. Her insights challenge common views on wellness, reminding us that “healing is not bubble baths and self-care; it’s revisiting the most painful experiences with love.”

Join us as we explore Tori’s approach to holistic healing, self-acceptance, and the power of community, offering listeners a roadmap to finding peace, redefining success, and building a life that truly “feels as good as it looks.”

Key Takeaways

• Trust the Journey: Transformation requires stepping into the unknown and trusting oneself and the process.
• Community’s Role in Healing: Revive Las Vegas exemplifies the strength and support a connected community can offer.
• Authentic Healing: True healing involves facing painful experiences with compassion and self-love.
• Redefining Success: Fulfillment lies in authenticity, deep connections, and self-acceptance over material gains.
• Acceptance Over Resistance: Finding peace often comes from releasing resistance and fostering self-acceptance.

Resources

• Tori Gordon’s Instagram: @thetorigordon
• Revive Las Vegas: @revivelasvegas
• Books Mentioned:
  • The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
  • A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson

Tune into this inspiring episode to hear Tori’s transformative story and insights on resilience, community, and creating a life that feels truly fulfilling. Don’t miss more empowering conversations on Pursue Vegas!

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!

Michael Anthony (Michael Unbroken) is the founder of Think Unbroken, a movement dedicated to breaking the cycle of generational trauma through education and empowerment.

Overcoming a turbulent childhood, Michael has become a renowned speaker, best-selling author, and trauma coach, impacting thousands worldwide. His podcast, "Think Unbroken," has garnered millions of downloads, inspiring listeners to rise above self-doubt and trauma.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, we sit down with Michael to unpack his journey from hardship to healing. Michael’s mission-driven work stems from his belief that “To become you, the fullest version of who you're capable of being, you have to give up who you used to be.” He offers powerful insights on overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing authenticity, and finding fulfillment by connecting with community. This conversation dives into mental health, self-improvement, and Las Vegas as a unique space for growth and transformation.

With practical advice and heartfelt wisdom, Michael shares his strategies for incremental change in health, wealth, and relationships—small steps that, over time, create transformative results. From tackling self-doubt to embracing purpose, this episode is packed with motivational takeaways that remind you to take action and live intentionally.

Key Takeaways

• Transformative Change: Real personal growth requires total dedication and the willingness to let go of past selves.
• Power of Community: Stepping out of comfort zones and connecting with others is essential for personal and professional development.
• Incremental Progress: Small, consistent actions can compound to create lasting change in every area of life.
• Authenticity in Relationships: Genuine connections, especially in environments like Las Vegas, require intentionality and openness.
• Self-Care as Service: Helping oneself is the first step to effectively helping others, a core principle in Michael’s coaching.

Resources

• Connect with Michael: Michael Unbroken on Instagram
• Think Unbroken: thinkunbroken.com – Learn more about Michael’s work
• Free Men’s Coaching Resources: mensmonday.com

Tune in to hear Michael Anthony’s powerful story and find out: "If you're not excited about your life, what the fuck are you doing?" Don't miss this episode of Pursue Vegas for the inspiration and tools to start living with purpose.

Thanks for tuning in to The Pursue Vegas Podcast!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

📍 Website: www.pursue.vegas

📱 Follow Us:

• Instagram: @pursuevegas
• YouTube: Pursue Vegas Podcast
• Or slide into our DM's: @daveburlin | @tawnisaurus

*Full timestamps available on our YouTube.

Ready to connect, collaborate, or share your story? We’d love to hear from you!