Well, it was bound to happen—this is the episode where we actually talk about drugs.

But not the kind you stash in your sock on the Strip. Nope, we’re diving into the kind of medicine that forces you to confront your demons, heal your soul, and rewrite your story. As Josh Halu puts it, "Psychedelics aren’t the answer—they’re the door that opens your path to healing and truth."

In this powerful episode of Pursue Vegas, we sit down with Josh Halu, a former Black Hawk helicopter pilot who turned his own battle with PTSD into a mission to heal others. As the CEO and co-founder of Sacred Soldier, Josh leads transformational ayahuasca retreats and holistic healing programs designed specifically for veterans. His story is one of courage, vulnerability, and relentless purpose.

But this isn’t just about psychedelics—it’s about confronting trauma, breaking cycles, and stepping into leadership. "True transformation doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a process of taking action and showing up for yourself and your community," says Dave.

Even more surprising is the role Las Vegas plays in this narrative. Often seen as a city of indulgence, it’s becoming an unexpected hub for personal growth and holistic healing. As Josh explains, "The desert teaches abundance and opportunity—Las Vegas is the perfect place to grow spiritually and emotionally."

Josh’s journey is a reminder that healing isn’t linear—it’s a courageous process of facing your truth and building a future beyond the pain. Whether you’re a veteran, an entrepreneur, or someone searching for purpose, this episode delivers profound insights into the transformative power of connection, leadership, and resilience.

"When you heal, you create space for others to heal too."

This episode is proof that sometimes the biggest gamble you can make is on yourself—and the rewards are life-changing.

Key Takeaways

• Healing as Leadership: Josh shows how addressing personal trauma can empower veterans to lead with purpose and inspire others.
• Psychedelics in Mental Health: Sacred Soldier integrates ancient traditions with modern therapeutic approaches to guide veterans toward breakthroughs.
• Vegas Beyond the Strip: Las Vegas is evolving into a destination for holistic healing and transformation, far beyond its surface reputation.
• The Ripple Effect: Healing yourself creates space for others to heal, amplifying the impact far beyond the individual.
• Courage in Action: Josh’s story reminds us that transformation isn’t easy, but it’s the foundation for true purpose.

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!

What happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas—sometimes, it ends up on a podcast.

In this episode of Pursue Vegas, we’re joined by the one and only Jon Orlando, the mastermind behind the Action Junkeez Podcast, for an unfiltered, laugh-out-loud conversation that’s almost about sex, drugs, and rock and roll—but with a signature Pursue Vegas twist. “Vegas isn’t just the Strip—it’s a hub of creativity and opportunity waiting to be tapped,” Jon says.

Jon takes us on a wild ride through his journey, from navigating the city’s neon-soaked streets to building a career in podcasting. He shares his insights on Las Vegas as a growing hub for sports, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. “Vegas has so much money from casinos and big marketing budgets; it’s a playground for creatives and entrepreneurs,” he adds.

With a front-row seat to Jon’s career, we explore how he’s turned his love for storytelling, sports, and entertainment into a platform that’s both engaging and authentic. Collaborating with industry heavyweights like Dave Meltzer, Jon proves that podcasting is more than a trend—it’s a movement. “The ability to adapt is what separates the good from the great,” Jon notes.

Whether he’s reminiscing about his early podcasting days or emphasizing the importance of authenticity in a world full of smoke and mirrors, Jon’s wit, wisdom, and passion shine through. He’s betting big on podcasting as the future of business and storytelling: “If you are in business, you have a personal brand or your own company, you will have a podcast.”

This episode is packed with humor, insight, and the kind of raw authenticity that reminds us why Las Vegas is the ultimate playground for dreamers and doers.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasting is Essential: Jon likens podcasting to the mobile app boom, calling it a must-have for businesses and personal brands.
• Vegas: The Entrepreneur’s Playground: Las Vegas is thriving with opportunities thanks to its growing sports and entertainment industries.
• Authenticity Wins: Unscripted, genuine conversations are the key to meaningful connections in podcasting.
• Focus on Growth: Jon emphasizes resilience and advises against getting caught up in competition or comparison.
• Podcasting’s Potential: From viral stories to business impact, podcasting offers limitless opportunities for creativity and success.

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!