Podcast
Hype Pod - The Hype Network Podcast
Hosted by Adam Smallcombe, Ben Lee · EN
Conversations from the Hype Network; Business innovation, technology, and current events from a faith-filled perspective.
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ask Me Anything: Recruiter Secrets with Justin Chen
Dec 2200:49:36Tap to summarizeIn this Ask Me Anything episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Justin. Chen, a recruiting leader in fintech and crypto, and answer real questions straight from the Hype community about job hunting in 2025.We talk about what actually makes someone stand out right now, especially with AI everywhere. Justin breaks down why doing real research is still the cheat code, how recruiters scan resumes in seconds, what instantly gets a resume tossed, and why networking is still the fastest way to get seen. We also get practical about using AI tools the right way so your resume and messages do not sound copy and pasted.Then we go deeper into the faith side of it too. When is waiting on God wisdom and when is it just avoidance. How do you keep your values in spaces where faith is not popular. And how do you stay encouraged when you feel overlooked by recruiters, bosses, or even God.If you are applying, pivoting, or trying to level up, this episode will give you strategy, clarity, and the push to keep showing up with purpose.--📸 Instagram: / hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: / the-hype-network 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9Htg...📺 YouTube: / @thehypenetwork Questions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →[EP. 59] Purpose Over Clout with Squint
Nov 601:04:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Khris “Squint”, visual composer, filmmaker, and creative visionary whose lens has captured icons like Michael Jordan, Coldplay, DeAngelo, and Steph Curry.A Palo Alto native and self-taught creative, Squint shares how an early start in public access TV led to a global career at the intersection of music, sports, and technology. He opens up about the power of humility in success, how faith fuels his creativity, and why purpose—not clout—keeps him grounded in the industry.We dive into the story behind his upcoming Steph Curry book "Shot Ready" , the heart behind Creative Hustle at Stanford, and his mission to use storytelling as a form of worship. Squint’s journey shows what it looks like to pursue excellence, walk in obedience, and stay true to your calling when fame and faith collide.This conversation is packed with inspiration for creators, entrepreneurs, and believers who want to use their gifts for something greater than themselves.--📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hype-network/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9HtgbtxAFf658CIo8uR?si=b86efc30d2924617📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHyPeNetworkQuestions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →[EP. 58] Faith, Creativity & Building Global Brands with Joshua Perry
Sep 1701:12:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Joshua Perry JP—entrepreneur, creative director, and cofounder of Trust God Bro—whose story weaves together art, ministry, and business.JP shares how he went from pursuing a full ride at one of the top art schools in the nation to walking away in faith, stepping into ministry, and eventually building one of the largest global faith based online communities. We talk about the power of branding and storytelling, why consistency and authenticity drive social media growth, and how entrepreneurship can be an act of obedience and service to God.Whether he’s directing creative at a church, scaling a direct to consumer brand, or mentoring leaders, JP brings clarity on building with excellence while keeping Christ at the center. He reminds us that real influence is not just about platforms or products but about stewarding creativity for Kingdom impact.This is a conversation filled with wisdom for entrepreneurs, creators, pastors, and anyone ready to trust God with their ideas and build something that lasts.--📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hype-network/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9HtgbtxAFf658CIo8uR?si=b86efc30d2924617📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHyPeNetworkQuestions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →[Ep 57] AI, Faith & The Human Edge with Bobby Johnson
Sep 300:57:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Pastor Bobby Johnson—AI/ML strategist, product leader, husband, father, and lead pastor of Vive Church Oakland—whose journey bridges Silicon Valley innovation and Kingdom impact. Bobby shares how a season of job loss pushed him to dive deep into product management and AI, and how early adoption of tools like ChatGPT reshaped the way he thought about work, creativity, and leadership. We talk about the rise of AI agents and even superintelligence, what it means for critical thinking, parenting, and discipleship, and why context, prayer, and creativity are still irreplaceable in a tech-driven age. Whether he’s consulting companies on integrating AI, mentoring teams, or preaching in Oakland, Bobby brings wisdom on staying grounded in faith while navigating disruptive change. He reminds us that while technology can accelerate our abilities, it’s our foundation in Christ that shapes our identity, our calling, and our impact. This is a conversation filled with insight for entrepreneurs, leaders, parents, and believers ready to embrace the future without losing what matters most.--📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hype-network/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9HtgbtxAFf658CIo8uR?si=b86efc30d2924617📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHyPeNetworkQuestions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →Resilience, Calling & Kingdom Impact with Pastor Alen Yaghoubi
Aug 2001:20:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Pastor Alan Yaghoubi, a forensic psychologist, San Jose State professor, and church pastor whose life is a powerful example of beating the odds. As a child, he was placed in special education and told he’d never make it to college. Today, he holds a doctorate and works with everyone from inmates to law enforcement.Alan shares the hurtful words from a teacher that almost shaped his future, the unexpected moment that set him on the path to college, and the prayer that changed the direction of his life. We talk about his deep interest in understanding what makes people think and act the way they do, from the criminal mind to the schemes of the enemy, and how modern psychology often aligns with biblical truth.Whether he’s evaluating prison inmates, mentoring students, or preaching on spiritual warfare, Pastor Alan offers practical wisdom on identity, breaking free from lies, and living with eternal impact. You’re one connection from your breakthrough. This is a conversation filled with insight for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone ready to close the gap between their potential and their purpose.--📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hype-network/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9Htg... 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehypenetworkQuestions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →Real Talk on Launching a Business with Jackie Rangel
Aug 801:03:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Jackie Rangel, a luxury wedding and engagement photographer whose story blends faith, family, and fierce entrepreneurship. From a $50 birthday shoot to a thriving global business, Jackie shares how she turned her passion into purpose without sacrificing her non-negotiables: God, her family, and rest.She talks about saying yes before you feel ready, building a brand through relationships, and using tools like AI to serve clients with excellence. Whether you’re a creative, a business owner, or simply ready to step into what God’s called you to, Jackie’s story will inspire you to start, scale, and stay rooted in what matters most.---Like what you’re seeing so far? Check out our website for ways to get involved, find a cohort, and a community to walk alongside you in this faith entrepreneurship journey. Online or in person find your breakthrough community today. https://www.hypenetwork.org/---📸 Instagram: / hypenetwork_ 💼 LinkedIn: / the-hype-network 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9Htg...📺 YouTube: / @thehypenetwork Questions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →Building a Legacy Through Faith and Resilience with Luis Ponce
Jul 2300:45:19Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Pastor Luis Ponce, a man whose journey from childhood hustle to commercial painting CEO to pastor is anything but ordinary. Luis shares how selling candy on the playground sparked his entrepreneurial fire, how working in the family business prepared him to launch his own, and how God’s hand was evident every step of the way. But this isn't just a business story, it's a faith story. We dive deep into how Luis overcame adversity, built a thriving company with excellence and integrity, and now pours that same passion into ministry. He opens up about leading with faith in the workplace, stewarding teams, and why legacy matters more than success. Whether you're building a business, leading a ministry, or figuring out your next step—this episode is packed with wisdom, grit, and godly perspective. --Like what you’re seeing so far? Check out our website for ways to get involved, find a cohort, and a community to walk alongside you in this faith entrepreneurship journey. Online or in person find your breakthrough community today. https://www.hypenetwork.org/---📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hypenetwork_/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hype-network/🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wb9HtgbtxAFf658CIo8uR?si=3c72b85c549d42e4📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHypeNetworkQuestions or feedback? info@hypenetwork.org
Transcribe →Tech Executive to Ministry with Erik Fortin
Jun 600:42:23Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of The Hype Pod, we sit down with Erik Forton, the new COO of Vive Church, whose story weaves together Silicon Valley success, deep personal transformation, and radical obedience to God’s call. Erik shares how he went from nearly becoming a police officer to joining Facebook as employee #180, helping launch their Austin office, and leading at companies like Square, Dropbox, Uber, and Ramp. But it wasn’t just a journey of tech milestones — it was also one of spiritual reawakening. From funemployed at HypeCon to stepping into what he calls his “dream shot,” Erik unpacks how his seasons of doubt, transition, and growth were all preparation for ministry. He opens up about his faith journey, how God used a single Hype encounter to re-ignite his confidence, and why bringing operational excellence to the Church matters more now than ever. Whether you're in tech, ministry, or somewhere in between, this episode will challenge you to think bigger about calling, purpose, and legacy.Links:Amen Conference (https://amenexperience.com/)Hype Network (https://www.hypenetwork.org/)VIVE Church (https://www.vivechurch.org)Vest Fund (https://vestfund.org/)---Each episode of the HYPE POD is a Hype Network conversation about innovation, technology, and other market trends from a faith-filled perspective. Some are from our LIVE events [Hype Sessions], and some are off-the-cuff between Adam Smallcombe, Vance Roush, Arun Koshy and Katrina Macaraeg. We hope these conversations fuel innovative ideas and give you the confidence to continue building with kingdom principles. Recorded at Overflow Studios, Silicon ValleyQuestions or feedback?podcast@hypenetwork.orgwww.hypenetwork.orgThe Hype Network is a growing global community of kingdom-minded industry experts, bold investors, tenacious entrepreneurs, thought leaders, ministry innovators, and faith-based disruptors. We gather in person and digitally to connect, create and collaborate to make a lasting impact on the people and industries we lead - the goal is innovative ministry acceleration.
Transcribe →Relational Equity is Real Equity with Jeremy Maranitch
Apr 25, 202501:14:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Hype Pod, Arun and Adam Smallcombe welcome Jeremy Maranitch, tech sales leader and former fitness coach turned Snowflake partnerships expert. Jeremy’s unconventional journey from personal training in Texas to working alongside Silicon Valley’s top founders is filled with hustle, wisdom, and insight into what it takes to thrive across industries.Together, they explore how Jeremy made the leap from fitness to tech, what it means to sell with integrity, and how relationship-building can unlock doors that skill alone can’t. He shares behind-the-scenes stories of cold calls, navigating self-doubt, building trust with CEOs, and the pivotal moment that led him into one of the fastest-growing data cloud companies.This episode also unpacks the human side of sales, how to win through service, why in-person presence is still the greatest advantage in a remote world, and how faith and leadership intersect in the business world. From AI data wars to the importance of showing up with boldness, this is a masterclass in purpose-driven success.Links:Amen Conference (https://amenexperience.com/)Hype Network (https://www.hypenetwork.org/)VIVE Church (https://www.vivechurch.org)Vest Fund (https://vestfund.org/)---Each episode of the HYPE POD is a Hype Network conversation about innovation, technology, and other market trends from a faith-filled perspective. Some are from our LIVE events [Hype Sessions], and some are off-the-cuff between Adam Smallcombe, Vance Roush, Arun Koshy and Katrina Macaraeg. We hope these conversations fuel innovative ideas and give you the confidence to continue building with kingdom principles. Recorded at Overflow Studios, Silicon ValleyQuestions or feedback?podcast@hypenetwork.orgwww.hypenetwork.orgThe Hype Network is a growing global community of kingdom-minded industry experts, bold investors, tenacious entrepreneurs, thought leaders, ministry innovators, and faith-based disruptors. We gather in person and digitally to connect, create and collaborate to make a lasting impact on the people and industries we lead - the goal is innovative ministry acceleration.
Transcribe →From Immigrant Energy to Industry Leader with Juan Ruan
Apr 16, 202501:00:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Hype Pod, join host Arun and Pastor Adam as they delve into the dynamic world of real estate with special guest Juan Ruan, President of Kinetic Real Estate. Discover how faith intersects with innovation and hear Juan's inspiring journey from a Chinese immigrant growing up in Mexico to becoming a successful real estate entrepreneur in the Bay Area. Explore key insights on home buying, the role of technology in real estate, and the mindset required to build wealth through property investments. Don't miss this exciting and educational conversation that's packed with practical tips and powerful testimonies.Links:Amen Conference (https://amenexperience.com/)Hype Network (https://www.hypenetwork.org/)VIVE Church (https://www.vivechurch.org)Vest Fund (https://vestfund.org/)---Each episode of the HYPE POD is a Hype Network conversation about innovation, technology, and other market trends from a faith-filled perspective. Some are from our LIVE events [Hype Sessions], and some are off-the-cuff between Adam Smallcombe, Vance Roush, Arun Koshy and Katrina Macaraeg. We hope these conversations fuel innovative ideas and give you the confidence to continue building with kingdom principles. Recorded at Overflow Studios, Silicon ValleyQuestions or feedback?podcast@hypenetwork.orgwww.hypenetwork.orgThe Hype Network is a growing global community of kingdom-minded industry experts, bold investors, tenacious entrepreneurs, thought leaders, ministry innovators, and faith-based disruptors. We gather in person and digitally to connect, create and collaborate to make a lasting impact on the people and industries we lead - the goal is innovative ministry acceleration.
Transcribe →