HAPPY 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!Welcome back to another edition of The Defying All Odds Podcast with your Hosts: Jesse DeJesus and Rafael Cedeño and our Producer: Luis Cruz.In this special celebratory episode, hosts Jesse and Rafael take a moment to reflect on their incredible journey. From a single camera setup in a Columbia University classroom, they have grown into an international podcast with over 40 episodes and an expanding community of listeners. This episode is a candid and inspiring look at their mission to highlight everyday stories of adversity and prove that everyone has a tale of perseverance.Here our hosts delve into their personal growth, sharing how they have evolved both individually and as a team. Jesse opens up about his journey from a private individual to a confident on-camera personality, embracing the role of a content creator. Rafael reflects on his experience in collaborative work, learning to delegate and building a strong, cohesive team. The Defying All Odds Podcast also highlights the impact of their diverse guest list, which has featured everyone from high-profile figures like former Dominican Republic President Leonel Fernández and U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat, to student-athletes and entrepreneurs. They discuss how these interviews not only provided them with invaluable insights but also gave their platform the credibility it needed to grow.Beyond the interviews, Rafael and Jesse share their favorite behind-the-scenes moments—the teamwork, the long recording days, and the laughter. They talk about their memorable experiences recording in unique locations like the Dominican Consulate, Front River Cafe, and the nostalgic halls of Butler Library. Both hosts also express their astonishment at their growing international audience, a testament to the universal power of their message. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on their ambitious goals for Year Two, including securing new sponsorships and continuing to share impactful stories. Join Rafael, Jesse, and Luis in celebrating their first anniversary and get a glimpse into the drive, dedication, and passion that continues to fuel The Defying All Odds podcast.Stay tuned for what is next in Year 2!🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🔔As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, FaceBook, Threads, Spotify LinkedIn, and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcastAlso be sure to check out Jesse, Rafael, and Luis on their platforms:Jesse DeJesus: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/jessedejesus?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacz8MBwMomqjGxvE_Gdf0u6z9qNukkpX0uKTRhEwcK63zGFg0obQJAHiVwPJw_aem_MPFTPXMiYcAoVu9hqR0uhwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdejesus7/Email: jjd2191@columbia.eduRafael Cedeño: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafa_tography/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rafa.c09LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-cedeno09/Email: Rafaelcedeno179@gmail.comLuis Cruz (Producer):Email: ljc2186@columbia.eduInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elluisitocruz/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luis-cruz-462b22307/ #podcast #intro #grief #photography #duet #childhood #adversity #motivation #motivational #motivationalvideo #motivationalspeech #determination #nevergiveup #columbia #nyc #usa #mindset #college #dr #dominicanrepublic #vacation #travel #faith #funny #host #newpodcast #defyingexpectations #americanuniversities #highereducation #highschool #uppereastside