In today’s episode, I’m joined by Brandon Wong — the CEO and Founder of Demystify AI, an innovative AI company based in Los Angeles. Brandon grew up in Southern California, graduated from UCLA with a degree in Data Science (specializing in Cybersecurity), and formerly worked as a Senior Software Engineer for the Oscars in Hollywood. 🎬💻

Now, Brandon is on a mission to educate and empower entrepreneurs and business owners to safely and responsibly integrate AI into their workflows. We talk about:

 * How to use AI as a tool (not a replacement)
 * Real-world ways AI is helping small businesses grow faster
 * Why cybersecurity and responsible use matter more than ever
 * What Demystify AI is doing to make AI more accessible and scalable

If you’re curious (or a little overwhelmed) about using AI in your biz, this episode will make it feel exciting, ethical, and totally doable.

Connect with Brandon Wong:
🌐 www.demystifyai.org
📍 Based in Los Angeles, CA

Connect with Me (Carissa):
📸 https://instagram.com/carissawoo
💻 Learn about my digital product journey: https://www.digitalwealthhypegirl.com/24-hr-ai-challenge


Ep. 188 - How to Safely & Powerfully Use AI in Your Business with Brandon Wong

🎧 Episode Description:
How do you make a wedding speech unforgettable—in a good way? 👀
Today’s guest is none other than Brian Franklin, dubbed “The Humorist” by The New York Times, and the Co-Founder of Vows & Speeches, a company on a mission to make wedding speeches (and vows!) actually enjoyable to listen to.

Brian has helped hundreds of people write vows, toasts, ceremonies, and even eulogies. In this episode, he shares how to tap into authenticity, avoid cliché, and craft words that feel deeply personal and powerful. Whether you’re a best man, maid of honor, officiant, or the one walking down the aisle—this episode will help you feel confident behind the mic.

We also dive into:

 * The #1 mistake most people make in wedding speeches
 * What not to say when you’re nervous
 * How to balance humor and heart in your vows
 * Why speeches drag—and how to fix them
 * Real stories from real weddings (yes, including the awkward ones!)
 * A sneak peek into Brian’s upcoming book Engaged (coming 2026)

This is a must-listen for engaged couples, wedding pros, and anyone who’s ever had to raise a glass in front of a crowd.

📝 Guest Bio:
Brian Franklin is the Co-Founder and CEO of Vows & Speeches, where he’s helped hundreds of clients craft unforgettable words for life’s biggest moments. He’s been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Brides, Politico, Bridal Guide, The Miami Herald, and more. Before founding his company, Brian ran an award-winning political consulting firm and served for 10 years on the board of the American Association of Political Consultants. His upcoming book, Engaged: Things I Learned About Love and Partnership by Interviewing Engaged Couples, is set to release in early 2026.

📲 Connect with Brian:
Instagram: @vowsandspeeches [https://www.instagram.com/vowsandspeeches]
Website: vowsandspeeches.com [https://www.vowsandspeeches.com/]

Connect with Carissa https://instagram.com/carissawoo

Ep. 187 - From Cringe to Captivating: How to Nail Your Wedding Words - Brian Franklin

🎙️ Podcast Episode: Thriving Beyond the Hustle with Dr. Lani Jones

Description:

In this powerful and soul-stirring episode, we’re joined by the incomparable Dr. Lani Jones—clinical psychologist, advisor, speaker, and founder of HBL Advisory Group. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty despite outward success, this conversation is for you.

Dr. Lani brings nearly two decades of experience guiding ambitious leaders who are ready to ditch burnout, make confident decisions, and create meaningful impact—without sacrificing their well-being. She’s not your typical therapist. With her no-nonsense approach, deep wisdom, and faith-forward mindset, she helps high-achievers navigate the chaos of life and leadership with clarity and conviction.

We Talk About:

 * Why work-life balance might be a myth—and what to focus on instead
 * How to overcome decision fatigue, burnout, and imposter syndrome
 * The power of aligning your personal and professional life for maximum impact
 * Building legacy instead of chasing perfection
 * How Dr. Lani blends clinical psychology with leadership strategy—no therapy couch required

This episode is your permission slip to stop surviving and start thriving.

✨ Bonus: Dr. Lani shares her 3-step strategy for regaining clarity and control (and it starts with a complimentary session!)

🔗 Resources & Links:

 * Connect with Dr. Lani Jones: www.hbladvisorygroup.com [https://www.hbladvisorygroup.com/]
 * Get the Final 1% Starter Kit – Free Download
 * Book a Complimentary Session: Click here
 * Follow along on Instagram: @dr.lanijones [https://www.instagram.com/dr.lanijones] (update with her real IG handle)

Let’s Redefine Success—Together.

Rate, review, and share this episode if it spoke to you! Tag us and let us know your biggest takeaway.

#TheFinal1Percent #WomenInLeadership #FaithDrivenBusiness #FromBurnoutToBreakthrough #DrLaniJones #PodcastGuest

Connect with Carissa https://www.instagram.com/carissawoo

Ep, 186 - Thriving Beyond the Hustle with Dr. Lani Jones

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

In this episode, Carissa sits down with Melissa Arlena—photographer turned SEO coach—to simplify the world of search engine optimization for creatives. If you’re tired of relying on ads or just crossing your fingers for inquiries, this episode breaks down what it really takes to start ranking, showing up, and booking dream clients—without the overwhelm.

🧠 Episode Highlights:

 * How to get your website to rank (without tech stress)
 * The biggest SEO mistakes photographers are making
 * Simple steps to boost your visibility today
 * Why SEO isn’t just for “techy” people—and how you already have what it takes
 * The power of keywords, blogging, and Google love

🔥 Why You’ll Love This Episode:

Melissa speaks photographer, not tech guru. She’s been behind the camera herself and knows exactly how to guide creative entrepreneurs toward sustainable, organic growth—so you can stop guessing and start growing.

🌟 About Melissa Arlena:

Melissa is the founder of Picture Perfect Rankings, where she teaches photographers how to master SEO, attract their ideal clients, and grow confidently—without paid ads. With a background in photography and a passion for teaching, she makes SEO feel simple, fun, and totally doable.

🎧 Tune In + Take Notes
This episode is packed with actionable tips—perfect for any creative who wants to grow without hustle.

Host: Carissa Woo
📸 carissawoophotography.com [http://www.carissawoophotography.com/]
📱 @carissawoo
🎤 Get a "HECK YES!" Podcast

Connect with Melissa

https://pictureperfectrankings.com/

Ep. 185 - SEO Made Simple for Photographers with Melissa Arlena

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why a simple selfie video can book more sales calls than a $5K studio production

• The story of a shy marketing consultant who created 3 videos in 3 days—and saw amazing results

• Why going viral is overrated—and the one Super Skill that matters more for sales

• A 3-step video script you can use today - and make effortless videos in less than five minutes!

📲 Connect with Ed: https://www.instagram.com/supersimplemarketing

Grab the Freebie:
Want to start making videos that book calls in under 5 minutes?

Download Ed’s free guide: The One Simple Video Script
(No fancy gear. No editing. Just a super easy video you can shoot with your selfie camera)

https://onesimplevideo.com/

https://instagram.com/carissawoo



Podcast sponsored by 17hats.com use code heckyes to get 50% the entire year

Ep. 184 - The Power of Selfie Videos: How to Book More Sales Calls Without Going Viral with Ed Oyama of Super Simple Marketing

✨ Episode Overview:

In today’s episode, I chat with the vibrant and passionate Claudia Terrazas — wedding planner, cheerleader for her couples, and the ultimate bringer of flamingo energy. Claudia is the owner of Time with Terrazas, a Southern California–based wedding and event planning company serving multicultural couples who value rich traditions and joyful celebrations.

We dive into what it means to provide true hospitality and integrity in the wedding world, and how deep, genuine connections can be the secret sauce to landing your dream clients.

Claudia’s colorful personality and approach to inclusivity makes her stand out in a pond of swans — and she’s here to help you get a big ol’ HECK YES from the people you most want to serve.

🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

 * Why quality over quantity leads to better client relationships
 * How Claudia infuses positive energy and deep communication into every event
 * Her secret to making dream clients feel seen, celebrated, and excited
 * What it means to be “a flamingo in a pond of swans” (and why you should be one too)
 * The power of embracing your cultural identity in your business

🎯 Main Takeaway:
Hospitality + Integrity + Joy = Long-lasting client love. Claudia reminds us that bringing our full, authentic selves to the table creates chemistry, connection, and unforgettable celebrations.

📲 Connect with Claudia:
Website: www.timewithterrazas.com [http://www.timewithterrazas.com/]
Instagram & Facebook: @timewithterrazas [https://www.instagram.com/timewithterrazas]

Connect with Carissa https://instagram.com/carissawoo

EP. 183 - Flamingo Energy, Deep Hospitality & Saying HECK YES with Claudia Terrazas of Time with Terrazas

🎧 Episode Overview:
In this heartfelt episode, Carissa sits down with Daniel Padrnos, a professional toastmaster and co-founder of Supra Dinner Society. Daniel introduces us to the ancient tradition of the Supra dinner, a celebration rooted in connection, meaning, and unforgettable memories.

He shares how his team transforms ordinary dinner parties into sacred, heartfelt experiences that go far beyond food and wine — using toasts, storytelling, and deep listening to create something truly magical. You’ll walk away inspired to rethink how you gather and celebrate life’s milestones.

🔥 Hot Topic:
How to Make Any Celebration Deeply Meaningful

🎯 Daniel’s Top Tips:

 1. Don’t get lost in the fancy details — focus on the meaning of the moment.
 2. Bring a toastmaster (Tamada) to guide the energy and storytelling.
 3. Open the floor for spontaneous, heartfelt toasts from guests.
 4. Celebrate people — not just the occasion.

💡 Main Takeaway:
Glitter is great, but human connection is what truly makes a gathering unforgettable.

💥 Daniel’s "HECK YES!" Sales Technique:
He builds trust and deep understanding before the celebration even begins — asking clients about their loved ones and what the event means to them, ensuring every moment is intentional and powerful.

🌟 Woo Factor:
Spontaneity and authentic human connection. Supra Dinners are unlike anything you’ve experienced!

🎁 Special Gift for Listeners:
Use promo code “WOOWARRIOR” for a discounted seat at a community Supra in Seattle!
👉 Learn more at supradinner.com [https://supradinner.com/]

📱 Follow Daniel & Supra Dinner Society:
Instagram & Facebook: @supradinnersociety [https://instagram.com/supradinnersociety]

Connect with Carissa https://instagram.com/carissawoo

Ep. 182 - Creating Unforgettable Celebrations with the Supra Dinner Society (with Daniel Padrnos)

💡 Episode Overview:

In this episode of Get a “HECK YES”!, Carissa Woo is joined by Tom Chelednik, a seasoned leader in the wedding industry with over 17 years of experience. As the Director of Vendor Engagement for The Knot and WeddingPro, Tom travels across the country, connecting with wedding pros and staying ahead of the latest trends.

Tom dives deep into WeddingPro’s Real Wedding Study, the largest and most comprehensive wedding data report in the U.S., capturing insights from nearly 17,000 couples.

🎯 What You’ll Learn:

 * Today’s Couples, Unpacked: Understand modern couples' budgets, guest counts, wedding styles, and how they use planning tools.
 * Crack the Gen Z Code: Discover how to build authentic connections with the next generation of couples based on their values and planning behavior.
 * Strategic Marketing Tips: Learn how to apply data-backed insights to your own marketing and client experience strategy.
 * Tom’s Favorite Sales Technique: How to get a “HECK YES!” by connecting your offer directly to what couples actually care about—using real data.

🛠️ Resources & Freebie:

Want the Real Wedding Study Summary?
👉 Scan the QR code (shared during the episode) for immediate access to the key findings and takeaways from this powerful report.

🌟 Woo Factor:

Tom stands out by engaging with over 80,000 wedding professionals every year—learning, sharing, and elevating the industry from coast to coast.

🔗 Connect with Tom:

 * Website: weddingpro.com [https://weddingpro.com/]
 * Instagram: @weddingpro [https://instagram.com/weddingpro] | @tom_chelednik [https://instagram.com/tom_chelednik]

Connect with Carissa https://www.instagram.com/carissawoo

Ep. 181 - What Today’s Couples Really Want: Data-Driven Strategies with Tom Chelednik of WeddingPro

About This Episode:

On today’s episode of Get a "HECK YES"!, I sit down with the incredible Nayri Kalayjian—also known as the Wedding Fashion Expert. From bestselling author to celebrity bridal stylist and business coach, Nayri has transformed Lovella Bridal into one of the most sought-after bridal brands in the country.

We dive deep into:

 * How Nayri creates a unique, high-touch customer experience using tech and team strategy
 * Her favorite sales techniques to get a HECK YES! from dream clients
 * How to stand out in a saturated wedding market with your “Woo Factor”
 * Why branding and online presence are everything in today’s wedding world

Whether you’re a bridal pro or just love boss woman energy, this episode is packed with gold.

🎁 Free Gift for Listeners:
Download Nayri’s Wedding Day Checklist – a must-have resource for brides and bridal pros alike:
👉 weddingfashionexpert.com/downloads [https://weddingfashionexpert.com/downloads]

Watch the Interview on YouTube:
Subscribe & Watch → [https://www.youtube.com/@carissawoo]

💬 Let’s Connect:
If you loved this episode, screenshot and tag us on Instagram @carissawoo and @weddingfashionexpert with your favorite takeaway! Don’t forget to hit follow and leave a 5-star review 💖

Instagram: @weddingfashionexpert [https://instagram.com/weddingfashionexpert] | @lovellabridal [https://instagram.com/lovellabridal] | @lovellaplus [https://instagram.com/lovellaplus]
Website: weddingfashionexpert.com [https://weddingfashionexpert.com/] | lovellabridal.com [https://www.lovellabridal.com/]

EP. 180 - From Bridal Styling to Business Powerhouse: Nayri Kalayjian’s Secrets to a "Heck Yes" Experience

Overview:Today’s episode features executive coach and bestselling author Deekron Krikorian, MBA. Deekron specializes in merging high performance with holistic well-being, empowering professionals to excel mentally, physically, and emotionally. Drawing from his diverse background as a Big-4 CPA, management consultant, and tech startup founder, Deekron introduces his groundbreaking “whole person” transformation method detailed in his bestselling book, The Nine Shifts.

Key Highlights:

 * Mindset Mastery: Understand how your mind creates resistance and limiting beliefs that fuel perfectionism and procrastination.
 * Energy Optimization: Discover practical habits around movement, nutrition, sleep, and emotional regulation to prevent burnout and sustain energy.
 * Purpose Alignment: Reignite your motivation by connecting deeply with your unique purpose and understanding your “why.”
 * Habit Formation: Learn empowering habits through repetition, accountability, and simple strategies that create lasting change.

Main Takeaways:

 * Techniques to get into action effortlessly without relying solely on willpower
 * Strategies that maintain both high performance and overall well-being
 * Empowerment tools that serve as a stress shield, preventing burnout
 * The powerful 60-second morning ritual to maintain motivation and consistency for life

Sales Strategy to Get a HECK YES:

 * Empathetic listening
 * Releasing attachment to outcomes
 * Building trust through authenticity, commitment, and fun
 * Removing limiting beliefs
 * Simplifying the process to start

Deekron’s Woo Factor:Unlike typical executive, mindset, or health coaches, Deekron uniquely blends these disciplines into a comprehensive approach focused on true, lasting behavior change—helping individuals thrive in every facet of work and life.

Special Gift for Listeners:Enjoy exclusive access to the first three chapters of Deekron’s book, The Nine Shifts, empowering you with transformative insights right away.

👉 Download Your Free Chapters Here [https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/aaqaay3x7usr50krh23l8/Book-Exceprt-The-Nine-Shifts-Ch-1-2-Web-version.pdf?rlkey=3ou33lf70ys1kqjm2qqbhqywc&st=lq0rb9uk&dl=0]

Tune in to transform your approach to motivation, energy, and sustained high performance!

Connect with Deekron https://healthyhighperformer.co/

Connect with Carissa Woo  https://www.instagram.com/carissawoo

https://www.digitalwealthhypegirl.com/24-hr-ai-challenge - Make a digital product

Ep. 179 Motivation 3.0: Unlock Peak Performance & Well-Being with Deekron Krikorian

Welcome to "Get a Heck Yes" with Carissa Woo. Carissa has been a Los Angeles
wedding photographer for over a decade. She's traveled the world, built her
team, and seen it all! Carissa Woo Photography won best wedding photographer by
California Wedding Day 2 years in a row. She now coaches wedding photographers
hit 10K a month and builds a thriving business. In this podcast, Carissa will
deep dive into how top wedding creatives get that heck yes from their dream
clients. She is not holding back on the struggles of the business and how to
push through the noise. Some healthy hustle, mindset shifts, up-leveling your
money story, time hacks because she's a mom of 2, a little bit of woo woo, and
most important, self-love and confidence are just a few of the many things we
will talk about. See you all soon Connect with Carissa Coaching IG: @Carissawoo
Photography IG: @carissawoophotography Download a free guide on how to become a
lead generating machine HERE

Get a "Heck Yes" with Carissa Woo Wedding Photographer and Coach

Carissa Sato's Show

Wedding Photography, Photography, weddings, wedding pros

Carissa Sato

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