I Will Not Lose

Hosted by Tony Ortiz

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Hosted by Tony Ortiz, I Will Not Lose is a podcast dedicated to exploring the valuable lessons learned from our failures. We delve into inspiring topics of persistence, resilience, and triumph in the face of adversity. By adopting a mindset that sees every misstep as an opportunity for growth, we challenge the conventional notion of failure. Join us as we journey through life's trials and tribulations, and emerge stronger, wiser, and unbroken. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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September 14, 20261 hr 4 min

Andre Williams: From Football to Fitness, Faith, Fatherhood & Building with AI - IWNL#0080

# I Will Not Lose 80: Andre Williams on Resilience, Fitness, Faith & Building After Football Tony Ortiz sits down with Andre Williams—Heisman Trophy finalist, former Boston College running back and New York Giant, and author of *After the Last Snap*. They talk about the pressure and personal cost behind elite performance, rebuilding through faith and fatherhood, creating AW Fitness Club from lived experience, and using AI to extend a strong human perspective. Andre also shares the philosophy behind daily movement and the Heart & Hustle blood-donation initiative. CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome and introducing Andre Williams 02:02 From football to authorship and life after the last snap 14:47 New York to San Diego: distance, hardship, and faith 27:55 The lived experience behind AW Fitness Club 29:29 Reset tomorrow: resilience, purpose, and detours 42:36 Perspective, responsibility, and AI 44:29 Turning perspective into a virtual fitness and nutrition system 55:55 Heart & Hustle and giving blood 58:16 Strength N Love Celebrity Casino Night 59:44 How to join AW Fitness Club 63:16 Where to find Andre and *After the Last Snap* LINKS AW Fitness Club: https://awfitnessclub.net Heart & Hustle / Give a Pint: https://giveapint.org I Will Not Lose Podcast: https://iwillnotlosepodcast.com Support and Tony Ortiz links: https://tothedesigner.com/links Andre on social: @ImDreWill44 (spoken handle; verify capitalization before publishing) #IWillNotLose #AndreWilliams #Resilience #AWFitnessClub #Podcast Draft for review. Nothing was published or scheduled. LISTEN & SUPPORT Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=FKGSHYR8WAB7C&no_recurring=0&item_name=Invest+in+%22I+Will+Not+Lose%22+podcast%21+Help+us+produce+quality+content+and+support+the+show+by+donation%21&currency_code=USD&source=qr Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

August 7, 20261 hr 21 min

AI, Music & the Human Touch with Phaze Wun | IWNL 0079

Phaze Wun returns to I Will Not Lose for a wide-ranging conversation with Tony Ortiz about music, technology, long-form content, creative independence, and what it takes to build something that lasts. They look back at live internet radio in 2007, examine social media as brand equity, and explain why a viral moment means little without a catalog or point of view behind it. Phaze Wun also reflects on being boxed in by an early song, becoming a multidisciplinary creator out of necessity, completing a new album through grief, and deciding whether this could be his final album. The conversation moves through AI music, Auto-Tune, automation, creative guardrails, communication, album aesthetics, faith, streaming economics, and the human judgment that makes identical tools produce completely different work. If this episode gives you something useful, subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with another creator who is building for the long run. CHAPTERS 00:00 Opening montage 01:18 Phaze Wun returns 02:13 Live streaming before it was normal 04:33 Social media as brand equity 05:58 Why a viral moment needs a catalog 11:32 When one successful song puts you in a box 12:56 The Renaissance approach to creative work 16:33 Building the new album through grief 17:44 Could the next project be an AI album? 20:38 Auto-Tune, AI, and resisting new tools 28:05 When AI gets the simple order wrong 29:07 AI customer service and missing context 35:18 Fear, incentives, and the AI argument 38:34 The deeper you go, the clearer AI's limits become 43:57 Training a local model through its mistakes 44:46 Communication across cultures, people, and machines 49:50 Creative waves and the possibility of a final album 55:49 Merch, ownership, and selling directly 57:02 What streaming actually pays independent artists 59:55 Making the new album gritty without losing clarity 64:46 Marriage, faith, and writing without old crutches 70:32 The right tool and the human touch 73:25 What it really costs to start a podcast 74:35 High-tech cities and low-tech systems 78:53 Training AI for a specific business 79:34 Where to find Phaze Wun 81:06 Closing Find new episodes: https://iwillnotlosepodcast.com Support the show: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=FKGSHYR8WAB7C&no_recurring=0&item_name=Invest+in+%22I+Will+Not+Lose%22+podcast%21+Help+us+produce+quality+content+and+support+the+show+by+donation%21&currency_code=USD&source=qr Phaze Wun: https://themiserylovecompany.com Tony: @tothedesigner #IWillNotLose #PhazeWun #Podcast #ArtificialIntelligence #MusicIndustry #CreatorEconomy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 20, 20261 hr 10 min

Men, Mental Health, Faith & Self-Defense with Ease | IWNL 0078

Ease to the World joins Tony on I Will Not Lose for a raw conversation about men’s mental health, brotherhood, therapy, faith, reputation, self-defense, podcasting, and the discipline it takes to keep moving when life pushes back. They unpack why growth requires discomfort, why nobody succeeds alone, when a trusted circle is enough—and when it is time to speak with a professional. Ease also shares how boxing humbled him, how faith reshaped his perspective, and why confidence is built through action rather than performance. If this conversation gives you something useful, subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who needs the reminder: you may give up mentally long before you actually have to. CHAPTERS 00:00 Put in the work when nobody is watching 00:48 Meet Ease to the World 04:26 Growth begins outside your comfort zone 07:15 Why nobody succeeds alone 10:04 Moving, opportunity, and career portability 13:29 Comparison, vulnerability, and changing views 14:35 Crohn’s disease, food, and health discipline 18:50 Men’s mental health and trusted circles 26:45 Friends, therapy, and professional help 29:26 Accountability and what therapy can do 36:10 Bible study and getting closer to God 39:09 Reputation, courage, and honest opinions 41:57 Why networking matters beyond talent 44:20 Faith, language, and intent 47:05 Self-defense, restraint, and walking away 51:27 The boxing lesson that humbled Ease 54:10 Why men should learn self-defense 57:20 The meaning behind I Will Not Lose 01:02:08 What Ease is building next 01:03:25 Stop waiting for perfect podcast equipment 01:07:03 Where to follow Ease 01:08:07 Closing and community initiatives Find new episodes: https://iwillnotlosepodcast.com Creative services: https://tothedesigner.com Tony: @tothedesigner Ease: @easetotheworld #IWillNotLose #Podcast #MensMentalHealth #SelfDefense #PersonalGrowth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 1, 20261 hr 17 min

Turning Hard Seasons Into Community - Jonathan Emery (Life's Checkmark Podcast) - IWNL #0077

In this episode of I Will Not Lose Podcast, I sit down with Jonathan Emery and Giselle Quintanilla for a conversation about resilience, major life shifts, and what it takes to keep building when life gives you every reason to stop. Jonathan shares the story behind Life’s Checkmark and how it grew into a real community after two major shifts that could have taken everything in a different direction. We talk about consistency, business, meaning, and the kind of work that happens when nobody is watching but still ends up being the thing that sets you apart later. This episode is about more than business. It is about the life that comes with it, the people you become through it, and the reasons some stories end up helping other people keep going too. If you have ever had to keep building through a hard season, this one is for you. Listen to Life’s Checkmark and tap in with the story. #IWillNotLosePodcast #JonathanEmery #LifesCheckmark #Resilience #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #Storytelling #TonyOrtizTheDesigner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 11, 20261 hr 5 min

Mona Lisa X Andre Jata X Entertainment - #0075

Episode #0075 features Mona Lisa with Andre Jata X for a conversation about her journey from middle-school talent shows to years of live performance, the discipline it takes to build a lasting career, and why real artists still matter in an AI-driven world. We also talk family, mentorship, theater, TV, and what it looks like to keep evolving as an entertainer. 00:00 Intro and guest introduction 00:02 Meet Mona Lisa 00:09 Early career and the first talent-show win 00:19 Business standards, referrals, and accountability 00:29 Family, leadership, and mentoring 00:39 AI, holograms, and the future of live music 00:51 Getting back into theater and TV 00:59 Closing thoughts For bookings and inquiries: 484-375-7753 | info@jataxsoulfulent.com #Podcast #MusicInterview #JataXSoulfulEntertainment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 9, 202653 min

Know When to Get Off the Bus: The Art of Strategic Quitting With Jake Supreme - #0075

Tony Ortiz sits down with Jake Supreme of Abstract Music Empire to discuss the massive comeback of the Emmaus Theater. We’re talking about turning a local gem into the "Lehigh Valley Apollo". A hub for rap battles, R&B sing-offs, and high-stakes community competitions. If you're repping Easton, Allentown, Bethlehem, or Phillipsburg, this one is for you. 0:00 - Intro and Motivation 2:04 - Meet Abstract Music Empire 5:41 - Discussing New Music Releases 11:47 - The Artist's Creative Journey 17:16 - Building a Professional Show 24:27 - The Business of Events 31:31 - Resilience and Avoiding Quitting 40:10 - The Power of Community Support 47:55 - Booking Trinidad James 55:00 - Future Plans at Amaze Theater 🔗 Support The Show We don't just talk about the dream; we build it. Help us keep the lights on and the mics hot. Official Website: IWillNotLosePodcast.com Subscribe: Catch us on your favorite podcast player! Featured in this episode: Tony Ortiz (@TOTheDesigner) Jake Supreme Abstract Music Empire #LehighValley #EmmausTheater #IWillNotLose #Podcast #PennsylvaniaCreatives #RapBattles #CommunityFirst #Manifest2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January 31, 202644 min

From Local To Global with Red McFly - #0074

On this episode of the I Will Not Lose Podcast , we sit down with Red McFly , an award-winning hip hop producer, performer, and creative force representing Allentown on a global stage. Red McFly has built a career that blends chart-topping production, live performance, and entrepreneurial vision , earning multiple Producer of the Year honors while staying deeply rooted in community and culture. In this conversation, we go beyond highlights and into the mindset, discipline, and long game required to survive and thrive in today’s music industry. From building real audience connection to mastering both the creative and business sides of music, this episode is a masterclass for artists, producers, and entrepreneurs who are serious about longevity. If you’re navigating creativity, branding, networking, or trying to build something that lasts without shortcuts, this one’s for you. Episode Breakdown 0:00 - The Grindset Mindset 2:00 - Connecting with Your Audience 4:00 - Global Reach and Passion 6:00 - Meet the Award-Winning Producer 8:00 - Celebrating New Year's Eve 10:00 - Allentown's Music Scene 12:00 - Producing Chart-Topping Hits 14:00 - The Evolution of Hip Hop 16:00 - Inspired by the Greats 18:00 - Mastering Both Sides of Music 20:00 - Performing Live 22:00 - Working with Idols 24:00 - The Power of Networking 26:00 - Continuous Learning in the Game 28:00 - Entrepreneurship in Hip Hop 30:00 - Building Your Brand Equity 32:00 - The Music Industry's Pace 34:00 - Consistency is Key 36:00 - Community and Culture 38:00 - Nepotism or Legacy? 40:00 - The Art of Marketing 42:00 - Music's Translatable Skills 44:00 - The Importance of Timing 46:00 - Don't Announce Departures 48:00 - Collaborating with Experts 50:00 - Supporting Local Talent 52:00 - Defining Entrepreneurship 54:00 - Creating a Regional Look 56:00 - Community Impact 58:00 - What's Next? 1:00:00 - Elevate and Take Flight Subscribe for conversations on resilience, creativity, and winning without shortcuts . This is I Will Not Lose . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January 16, 20261 hr 2 min

From Chaos to Clarity | Ali AMAC McGuire - #0073

Unlock your true potential and overcome burnout! Discover how to navigate challenges and find lasting fulfillment. Learn practical strategies for resilience and self-discovery. 0:00 - Welcome to I Will Not Lose 2:21 - Understanding Creative Expression 4:21 - The Burnout Reality 6:30 - Chasing the High 8:40 - Living Your Human Experience 10:10 - Burnout: The Devastating Fourth Stage 12:21 - Finding Your Inner Compass 14:11 - Core Values Drive Your Path 17:05 - What's Your Why? 19:00 - Your "House" and Safe Choices 21:37 - The Power of Awareness & Choice 24:30 - Finding Your Core Values 26:15 - Ali's Contact & Closing Thoughts Subscribe for weekly insights on personal growth and mental well-being! What's one step you'll take today to prioritize your journey? Hit the notification bell so you never miss a valuable episode. Watch next: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCQl_2vf8kc&t=1s Connect with us: www.iwillnotlosepodcast.com Sponsored by: Nexus Network #BurnoutRecovery #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #MentalWellness #SelfDiscovery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November 28, 20251 hr 16 min

Midlife Mastery Finding Your Voice and Inspiring the World - Jack Nine - #0070

Joshua Ramirez of Jack Nine Films went from recording in small neighborhood spaces to directing projects that have reached more than seven billion views. He has filmed thousands of videos for artists around the world and built a reputation for sharp storytelling, disciplined work, and a vision that cuts through the noise. This episode breaks down the real journey behind the success. We talk about persistence, purpose, legacy, and what it means to build something that lasts when no one is watching. Joshua opens up about family, faith, the grind, the pressure, and the mindset that took him from local projects to global reach. We cover creativity, gear versus skill, the art of saying no, protecting your energy, and the importance of being a good human while you chase big goals. If you are a filmmaker, creator, or someone building something from scratch, this conversation will hit home. Subscribe to stay connected with more conversations that focus on story, craft, and the people who push culture forward. 0:00 - The Power of Persistence and Purpose 2:30 - Building Your Legacy Behind the Scenes 4:10 - Embracing Your 50s A New Chapter 6:00 - Finding Your Voice Midlife Reflection 8:00 - The Creative Journey What Drives You 10:00 - Finding Your Foundation The Power of 34 12:00 - Family as Fuel Your Greatest Motivation 14:00 - Navigating Life's Challenges With Faith 16:00 - The Art of Saying No Protecting Your Energy 18:00 - The Director's Vision Orchestrating Success 20:00 - Mastering Your Craft Gear vs Skill 22:00 - From Local to Global Inspiring the World 24:00 - AI's Impact Human Connection Remains 26:00 - The Value of Authenticity Timeless Appeal 28:00 - A Journey of Faith and Humility 30:00 - The Power of Connection Be a Good Human Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November 3, 20251 hr 9 min

The Art of the Mix: A DJ's Journey - Lu Minier #0071

Unlock the secrets to DJing success & event mastery in 2025! Discover how to captivate any crowd and elevate your events to the next level. [00:00] The Evolution of DJing & Event Entertainment [05:30] Mastering Music Trends & Audience Engagement [12:15] The Power of Fusion: DJing with Live Musicians [25:00] Turning Setbacks into Success: Lessons from the Trenches [45:00] The Future of Events: AI vs. Human Touch Subscribe for weekly insights on mastering your craft! What's your biggest challenge when planning an event? Hit the notification bell so you never miss our expert tips! 0:00 - Intro and The Power of Persistence 2:30 - Unlocking Your Potential Behind the Scenes 5:15 - The DJ's Evolution: Adapting to Trends 10:50 - Beyond the Playlist: The Art of Live DJing 15:30 - Wedding Trends and TikTok's Influence 20:00 - Fusing Genres: Saxophone Meets DJ 24:00 - What Fuels the Passion? Love vs. Business 29:00 - Live Music Events: A Vision for the Future 34:00 - Overcoming Setbacks: Learning from Failure 40:00 - The Luck Factor in Success 45:00 - Spotify vs. DJ: Why Live Matters 50:00 - Budgeting for Your Dream Event 55:00 - The Art of Storytelling Through Video 1:00:00 - Mastering Your Tools: Expertise Over Tech 1:05:00 - Quality Service, Regardless of Budget 1:10:00 - The Value of Experience in DJing 1:15:00 - AI's Role: Enhancing, Not Replacing 1:20:00 - The Human Element in Reading a Room 1:25:00 - Creativity: Beyond the Surface 1:30:00 - The DJ Cafe: Building a Supportive Community 1:35:00 - Understanding Client Needs: Logo vs. Brand 1:40:00 - Technology's Rapid Shift in DJing 1:45:00 - From CDs to Software: The DJ's Tech Journey 1:50:00 - The Art of Speed: Mastering Your Craft 1:55:00 - Jujitsu Meets DJing: A New Frontier 2:00:00 - The Mercenary Mindset in the Music Industry 2:05:00 - Advanced DJ Tech: Stems and Acapellas 2:10:00 - The Sync Button Debate: Too Easy? 2:15:00 - Classic Skills in a Digital Age 2:20:00 - The Importance of Adaptability 2:25:00 - Niche Markets and Multicultural Events 2:30:00 - The Universal Language of Music Energy 2:35:00 - AI DJs: The Future or a Fad? 2:40:00 - Nostalgia and Vinyl's Enduring Appeal 2:45:00 - The Golden Era of Recording 2:50:00 - One-Take Wonders: The Lost Art? 2:55:00 - Studio Time vs. Creative Freedom 3:00:00 - Authenticity in Expression: Sobriety and Beyond 3:05:00 - The Evolution of Music Production 3:10:00 - Vibe Coding: AI-Powered Creation 3:15:00 - AI's Limitations: Creativity and Nuance 3:20:00 - The Human Factor: Troubleshooting and Intuition 3:25:00 - Resilience: Learning from Every Fall 3:30:00 - The Power of Community: DJ Cafe Spotlight 3:35:00 - Respecting the Game: Value and Experience 3:40:00 - Time: The Most Valuable Asset 3:45:00 - The DJ Cafe: A Hub for Growth 3:50:00 - Sharing Knowledge: The Spirit of Collaboration 3:55:00 - Human Connection Through Music 4:00:00 - Social Media: Showcasing Talent and Ideas 4:05:00 - From Word-of-Mouth to Digital Reach 4:10:00 - Navigating Unreliable Downloads 4:15:00 - AI for Logos: The Future of Design? 4:20:00 - AI's Impact Across Industries 4:25:00 - Music as Connection: Staying Grounded Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.