The EliteX Podcast - Business & Lifestyle

In this milestone episode of the Elite X Podcast, co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian “The Community CEO” Lazore welcome back a very special guest — Santa Clarita City Manager Ken Striplin — marking the show’s first-ever return guest. Dressed to impress and ready to dive deep, Ken gives the crew and the listeners a comprehensive update on the growth, challenges, and vision for the SCV. From recent successes like new parks, community centers, and the 40th park milestone, to future projects including the David March Park expansion (complete with a brand-new staircase for the CEO formerly known as The Buffalo), the episode offers a wide-angle view of a city in motion.Ken doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff either — including state housing mandates, the controversial courthouse site, and the complexity of balancing growth with the character and safety of the community. With topics ranging from pickleball popularity to Santa Clarita’s economic resilience, the conversation blends policy, humor, and heart. The trio also dig into local nonprofit work, small business development, and how the SCV “bubble” continues to thrive thanks to committed leadership and an engaged community. Striplin’s parting message? Be kind — and don’t take Santa Clarita for granted.

The first episode of 2026 kicks off with co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian “The Community CEO” ditching the guest chair to reflect, reset, and recommit. In this energetic and heartfelt session, the Elite X crew takes a trip down memory lane, recapping four years of podcasting, standout episodes, and major life milestones—including new businesses, babies, and viral vasectomy stories. Christian ditches "The Buffalo" for a new title that reflects his evolving role in the Santa Clarita Valley, while the team doubles down on their shared mission to uplift the small business community in a big way this year.From Henry’s big announcement as title sponsor for the Santa Clarita Chamber Awards at CalArts, to Christian’s new AI-powered home services venture, “Homes & More,” the guys are leaning into innovation and impact. They also set a bold new goal of collecting 400 backpacks for local students and reflect on their commitment to the 75 Hard challenge—mental toughness, personal growth, and fewer excuses across the board. With Super Bowl predictions, pizza debates, book recs, and big dreams of bringing hometown legends like Tyler Glasnow and Allyson Felix on the pod, the trio makes it clear: 2026 is all about leveling up.

In this wildly entertaining and insightful episode of the Elite X Podcast, Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and the ever-unfiltered "Voice" welcome local orthodontist and Harvard alum, Dr. Megan LeCornu of Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics. But first—Christian drops a hilarious and cringe-worthy account of his recent vasectomy gone wrong, featuring Buffalo-sized complications and a Beach Boys soundtrack. The crew dives into male vulnerability, healthcare horror stories, and some unexpected childhood trauma involving baseballs and tighty-whities. It's raw, real, and laugh-out-loud funny.Once the guys recover from the chaos, Dr. LeCornu takes the mic and shares her incredible journey—from Harvard Med to founding a top-tier orthodontic practice in Santa Clarita. She breaks down the science behind modern orthodontics, why your bite matters more than you think, and how cutting-edge technology is changing the game for kids and adults alike. The episode covers everything from custom mouthguards to 3M product development, and even favorite local SCV hangouts. Whether you're a parent considering braces or just here for the laughs, this episode blends community, business insight, and some serious (and not-so-serious) medical talk in classic Elite X fashion.

In this episode of the Elite X Podcast, Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian Lazore sit down with Mike Meena, President and CEO of Augusta Financial, the number one lender in Santa Clarita. The episode kicks off with the hosts sharing hilarious stories about their new babies, unexpected parenthood, and adventures like Henry surviving two weeks as both mom and dad while his kids were at Cooperstown. From arranged playdates to the chaos of parenting in your 30s and 40s, the trio sets the stage with their signature mix of humor and heartfelt reflection before welcoming their guest.Once Mike joins the conversation, the episode dives deep into business, discipline, and building wealth. With over 35 years in the mortgage industry, Mike shares invaluable insights on real estate investing, the importance of consistency, and the “Mamba Mentality” that drives his work ethic. He opens up about lessons learned from mentors, the art of delivering exceptional client service, and practical strategies for first-time homebuyers and investors to create long-term financial stability. From cautionary tales about internet lenders to advice on raising financially savvy families, this episode is packed with knowledge, laughs, and inspiration for anyone in business or building their legacy in Santa Clarita.

In one of the most heartfelt and impactful episodes of the Elite X podcast to date, Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian “The Voice” Lazor welcome a truly special guest — Lety Garcia, Patient Family Liaison for The Michael Hoefflin Foundation. With over 20 years of dedicated service, Lety shares her powerful journey of helping families in their darkest hours as they navigate the unimaginable: childhood cancer. From the emotional first phone call with families to providing support with gas cards and hospital parking passes, Lety's work goes beyond charity; it’s personal, profound, and deeply human. The hosts reflect on their own emotional connections to the foundation, including the recent loss of young patients and the strength shown by their families.The episode also dives into upcoming community events like Cheers for Charity and Battle of the Paddle, highlighting ways locals can get involved. Christian shares what it's like serving on the board, Ryan opens up about emotional moments at the Walk, and Henry emphasizes how this foundation's direct impact sets it apart. Whether it’s financial assistance, emotional support, or simply showing up, Lety reminds us how small acts of kindness can carry families through the most difficult of times. This episode is a tribute to love, resilience, and the power of community, and a call to action for anyone looking to make a real difference in Santa Clarita and beyond.

In this episode of the Elite X Podcast, Henry Rodriguez teams up with guest co-host Real Estate Liz Tolentino to talk all things travel baseball — the early mornings, long drives, questionable field bathrooms, and nonstop commitment. With the SCV MVP Ryan Arditty in the mix, the crew shares laughs and battle stories from the world of competitive youth sports, while also diving into the lessons it teaches both kids and parents. From bonding over ballpark DJs to live-streaming games during open houses, it’s a candid, hilarious look at the realities of raising young athletes in the SCV.Then, the episode shifts gears as the hosts welcome powerhouse family law attorney Karla Waymire. Karla shares her unconventional path into law, the grit it takes to run your own firm, and the emotional toll — and reward — of working in family law. From courtroom war stories to her advocacy in domestic violence cases, Karla brings raw honesty, bold humor, and invaluable insight. Whether she’s talking about being underestimated in a pink tweed suit or advocating for the most vulnerable, Karla leaves it all on the mic in an inspiring, unfiltered conversation about purpose, professionalism, and not being afraid to say, “Sue me.”

In this heartfelt and high-energy episode of the Elite X Podcast, co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and "The Voice" Christian Lazore share laughs, life updates, and a powerful conversation with local cross country coach and elite marathoner Sergey Sushchikh. The trio opens up with stories from a whirlwind day in L.A. — from a sun-soaked charity golf tournament to all-you-can-eat Dodgers seats (where Ryan may have gone silent thanks to a few too many kosher dogs). They also drop some big personal news: both Henry and Ryan are weeks away from becoming fathers — at the same time, and completely unplanned.Then the crew sits down with Sergey to dive into his inspiring journey — from a high school standout to UCLA athlete to dedicated coach at Saugus High School. Sergey breaks down the mental and physical discipline required for marathon training, shares how coaching has impacted his life, and honors the legacy of his late friend and fellow runner Emilio De La Torre, to whom he dedicated his recent LA Marathon performance (where he finished an astonishing 8th out of 25,000+ runners). It’s a powerful conversation about purpose, persistence, and giving back, wrapped in the laid-back, real talk Santa Clarita fans know and love.

In this episode of Elite X Podcast, hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian Lazore sit down with Jerrid Hittleman, the owner of Drip House Prints and the mastermind behind Secret SCV, an Instagram page dedicated to spotlighting local businesses. Jerrid shares his journey from working odd jobs to launching his own successful custom apparel company, overcoming incredible challenges—including the sudden loss of his business partner and navigating the pandemic. The conversation dives into the power of social media, how Jerrid has helped local businesses thrive through viral marketing, and why building community is the key to long-term success.Beyond business, the Elite X crew and Jerrid bond over their shared entrepreneurial grind, the discipline of 75 Hard, and the importance of showing up every day—no matter what. From hilarious banter about Ryan’s questionable commitment levels to an inspiring discussion on resilience, this episode is packed with energy, insight, and motivation. Plus, Ryan gifts his cohosts some incredible custom SCV MVP hoodies showcasing Jerrid’s top-tier craftsmanship. Tune in for a fun and inspiring conversation that highlights what it takes to succeed in business and in life.

In this episode of Elite X Podcast, hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and Christian Lazore sit down with Steve Keefe, the managing partner and COO of Parkway Motors, to discuss his journey in the automotive industry and his latest venture—Society, an upscale New York-style pizzeria coming to Santa Clarita. Steve shares insights on leadership, business philosophy, and the importance of creating meaningful customer experiences, whether in car sales or the restaurant world. The conversation covers everything from the evolution of the local dealership scene to the vision behind Society, including its chic ambiance, top-tier cocktails, and live music scene that promises to elevate Main Street nightlife.Beyond business, the hosts keep things light and engaging, touching on family, sports, and life in Santa Clarita. They talk about their kids' achievements, recent experiences at Lakers games, and upcoming community events like the Michael Hoefflin Walk for Kids with Cancer. With plenty of laughs, friendly jabs, and valuable entrepreneurial wisdom, this episode delivers both entertainment and inspiration. Plus, the Elite X crew secures their invite to Society’s soft opening—so stay tuned for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of Santa Clarita’s most anticipated new hotspots!

In this episode of the Elite X Podcast, Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and "The Voice" sit down with Nicole Stinson and Christie Locke-Romero, the powerhouse duo behind the My Truth Today podcast. The ladies, both top-producing real estate professionals and active members of the exclusive Elite Network, share their inspiring journeys into real estate, their strategies for navigating today’s challenging market, and how they’ve stayed connected to their purpose and clients. From the value of authenticity in marketing to overcoming burnout and embracing their “why,” Nicole and Christie offer listeners invaluable insights into building both a business and a life rooted in connection and service.The episode also highlights the story behind My Truth Today, a podcast born from a passion for authenticity and meaningful conversations. Nicole and Christie dive into their mission to create a safe space for people to share their truths and find connection. With moments of laughter, raw honesty, and inspiration, the episode underscores the importance of collaboration, self-care, and leading by example. Tune in for actionable tips, relatable stories, and plenty of fun as these two dynamic women share how they balance their professional success with their commitment to inspiring others.

In this episode of the "Elite X Podcast," co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and "The Voice" (revealed as Christian Lazore in a hilarious, long-awaited on-camera debut) welcome esteemed guest John Vance, founder of Vance Wealth. The team dives into John's journey of building a thriving wealth management firm over the past 21 years in Santa Clarita. John shares invaluable insights about the importance of early investing, financial literacy, and the unique challenges he’s faced in today's economy, from navigating misinformation to embracing technology and AI. He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at Vance Wealth's holistic approach to financial planning, including how they empower younger clients and foster collaboration through an innovative, non-commission-based model.Beyond business, the episode explores John’s deep commitment to community and family. As the chair of Single Mothers Outreach, he discusses his passion for creating lasting impact in Santa Clarita, including spearheading the organization's $2 million capital campaign. He also opens up about his strategies for instilling financial discipline in his six kids and his dedication to building a legacy through empowering future leaders at his firm. With candid moments, practical advice, and plenty of laughs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up in business, personal finance, and community involvement.

In this episode of the Elite X Podcast, co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty, and "The Voice" welcome an influential leader in the Santa Clarita Valley: Frank Oviedo, Assistant City Manager and Board Chair of the Michael Hoefflin Foundation. Together, they discuss the foundation’s successful Cheers for Charity event, highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and record-breaking impact on the community. Frank shares insights into the innovative additions, such as a kids' play area, which enhanced the event and drew greater participation from local families. The team also gives a heartfelt shoutout to Henry's fiancée, Sonja, for her pivotal role in making the event a standout success. The conversation celebrates community involvement and the unique, collaborative spirit that defines Santa Clarita.In a deep dive into Frank’s personal and professional journey, he shares inspiring stories about his upbringing, mentors, and his path to becoming a leader in public administration. From growing up in the rural town of Sanger, California, to working with former Governor Pete Wilson and eventually landing in Santa Clarita, Frank’s career is a testament to perseverance and dedication. He discusses the city’s ambitious growth, the evolving challenges of managing a vibrant, family-oriented community, and what the future holds for Santa Clarita. Packed with humor, inspiration, and insider perspectives, this episode offers a unique look at the people and decisions shaping the Santa Clarita Valley.

In this episode of the EliteX podcast, we sit down with a powerhouse guest: a dynamic female attorney, entrepreneur, and mother who’s now stepping into a new leadership role by running for the College of the Canyons Board of Trustees. We dive into her journey through the legal profession, the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and her passion for making a difference in the local education system. Tune in as we explore her vision for the future of education, the importance of community involvement, and how she’s paving the way for other women to lead in both business and public service.

In this episode of the Elite X Podcast, co-hosts Henry Rodriguez, Ryan Arditty (The SCV MVP), and The Voice welcome local business owner Opal to the show. Opal Roknipour, the dynamic owner of Funburger & BBQ, dives into her experience running a family-friendly restaurant while managing the complexities of entrepreneurship and motherhood. She shares about her journey from her education in food science to becoming a successful restaurant owner, Opal’s insights highlight the importance of adaptability and community involvement in business. She shares stories of running Funburger, from adapting her menu based on customer feedback to balancing the demands of raising seven kids and overseeing a bustling restaurant.Opal also opens up about her passion for food, describing how her background in food science and a love for cooking inspired her to take the leap into the restaurant industry. She discusses the challenges of starting a business in her local community and how personal connections and local collaborations, like working with nearby breweries, have shaped her success. The episode wraps with Opal offering advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and touching on how she creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere at Funburger, making it a go-to spot for families in the Santa Clarita Valley. This episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and a focus on how local businesses can thrive by staying true to their values and community.

In this episode of the exclusive EliteX podcast, we sit down with Todd Tisdell, the passionate owner of Pocock Brewery. Todd shares the story behind the brewery, from its humble beginnings to becoming a community favorite. We dive into the craft of brewing, the challenges of running a local business, and how Pocock Brewery has become a cornerstone in the local scene. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, craft beer, and the power of community!

In this inspiring episode of the Elite Podcast, we sit down with Kym DeLorenzo, a powerhouse realtor, dedicated fitness enthusiast, and mother of four. Join us as she shares her journey of building a successful real estate career while raising a family and maintaining her passion for health and wellness. Discover her secrets to time management, staying motivated, and achieving a harmonious work-life balance. Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you empowered to pursue your passions without compromise.

In this episode of EliteX, we take you on a culinary journey to Hanasaki, the newest sushi sensation in town that's quickly becoming the go-to spot for food enthusiasts. Join us as we chat with the mastermind behind Hanasaki, exploring the inspiration, flavors, and innovative techniques that make this restaurant stand out. From their fresh, artfully crafted sushi rolls to the cozy, modern ambiance, discover why Hanasaki is creating such a buzz. Whether you're a sushi lover or a foodie looking for your next dining experience, this episode will leave your taste buds tingling and your curiosity piqued.

In this episode of EliteX, we sit down with Taylor Kellstrom, a respected community leader and accomplished local realtor, who has been making waves in both the real estate market and community involvement. Join us as we explore how Taylor’s unique blend of passion for community engagement and real estate expertise is driving positive change in our neighborhoods. From the challenges of navigating the housing market to the joys of helping families find their dream homes, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of community building and real estate. Whether you're a prospective homebuyer, a real estate enthusiast, or someone passionate about community development, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

Join us for an exclusive episode of the EliteX Podcast featuring former professional baseball player Trevor Brown. Dive into Trevor's inspiring journey from the intense world of Major League Baseball to his current endeavors off the field. With captivating stories from his time with the San Francisco Giants and insightful reflections on the highs and lows of a professional sports career, Trevor shares invaluable lessons on perseverance, adaptability, and finding new passions after sports. Whether you're a baseball enthusiast, an aspiring athlete, or someone seeking motivation, this episode promises to deliver a grand slam of inspiration and practical wisdom. Tune in to hear Trevor Brown's remarkable story and learn how the principles of elite performance can be applied to any walk of life.