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Welcome to ON AIR with LA Balloons Podcast Sponsored by TUFTEX, where we bring you all the fun and excitement of the world of balloons! Join us as we discuss the latest balloon current events and give a shoutout to upcoming balloon artists. Our guest interviews feature industry experts, professional balloon decorators, and balloon artists who share their tips and experiences. From balloon artistry and balloon bouquets to balloon animals and sculptures, we cover it all. So, get ready, and join us for a colorful and entertaining journey into the fascinating world of balloons on ON AIR with LA Balloons Podcast!
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Latest Episode
Season 2 Episodes
S2 Episode 10 - DELLOONS - A Deluxe Balloon Duo!
Join us in this fun episode, as we learn more about the power couple, Dolly and Eddie from Delloons! From their humble beginnings in the Dominican Republic, to the secret formula behind their success as decorators, teachers, and now boutique owners! How did Dolly and Eddie break free from their 9-5 careers? And what did Dolly do to convince Eddie to go ALL IN?!
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S2 Episode 9 - Sandra Aleman - From Dream to Warehouse to TUFTEX Color Crew !
"In this exciting episode, Sandra Aleman of Plan My Party LA shares her incredible journey—from the dream that inspired her to start her balloon business to securing a warehouse space and joining the TUFTEX Color Crew. Tune in for a dose of inspiration, entrepreneurial wisdom, and tips you won’t want to miss!"
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S2 Episode 8 - Z-LENNIAL Julia Vu on Gatekeeping, Brunch, and Steve Aoki?!
In this episode, we meet the Julia Vu, the Founder and CEO of THE EVENT COMMUNITY. Julia leverages 7 years of event industry experience, having worked for high-profile events for Jack Morton and Google. She used Instagram to start a platform to bring California vendors together. Seeing the need for a central hub, she expanded it to become an event marketplace known as The Event Community.
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S2 EP7 - Small in Stature, Big on Balloons: Theresa's Journey from Social Worker to Balloon Artist
In this episode of On Air with LA Balloons, Steven Mayhew and Karen chat with Theresa Harding of Madcap Balloons. Theresa shares how her fear of clowns turned into a colorful, joyful career as a balloon artist, built alongside her husband, Seth. Packed with laughs and inspiration, this episode proves that even the smallest people can have a big impact—so tune in!
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S2 EP6 - There's something ""Moore"" about Sara.... Turning Creativity into Cash, Balloons, and Quitting?
In this episode of On Air with LA Balloons, Karen and Andrew talk to Sara Moore, a balloon artist and entrepreneur from Wisconsin. Sara blends 20+ years of experience in sales and marketing with her passion for colorful, bold balloon creations. Having launched her own balloon business, Sara now teaches others how to start and grow profitable balloon decor businesses in record time. She is also a mom, wife, and quilter! She manages the balloon decor world while still maintaining her 9-5.
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S2 EP5 - Allison Will of TUFTEX spills the "T" with LA Balloons!
In this episode of On Air with LA Balloons, Karen and Andrew sit down with Allison from Tuftex! The vision and heart behind the brand, Allison found time to share her personal story, insights into the family business, and spills the tea on some big things that Tuftex has been working on. She also shares the challeneges behind running such a large business, her motivations, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
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S2 EP4 - We talk with Rilee Acrey, the owner of THE WORKS event space & Balloon Works!
In this episode of On Air with LA Balloons, Karen and Andrew talk with Riley, founder of Balloon Works. Riley shares her journey from a corporate job to running a thriving balloon and event decor business. She discusses her early challenges, learning through trial and error, and her relentless networking. Riley’s story showcases the grit and growth behind Balloon Works, including her event space "The Works" in Pasadena.
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S2 EPISODE 3 - TAKE 2 with @BLKSMTH Michael Schneider
In this episode, we interview Michael J. Schneider, a media entrepreneur and balloon artist with over 1.2 million followers. Michael shares his creative journey, discussing how he uses social media to merge art with content, and the challenges of balancing artistic integrity with online culture. The conversation also touches on his personal experiences, including going from a retail job straight to balloons, viral art, and the joys of community building through his installations.
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S2 Episode 2 - Who is the Baby of the Party ? Today we met Carina!
In this exciting episode of On Air with LA Balloons, we chat with Carina Cano from Baby of the Party, about her journey into the balloon business, balancing work and family life, and her aspirations for the future. You’ll hear about her favorite balloon techniques, how she overcame challenges, and her inspiring message of perseverance and passion for creating unforgettable events! Don’t miss this episode filled with valuable tips and fun insights into the balloon industry.
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S2 EPISODE 1 - Bespoke Balloon Decor: Elevating Luxury Events with Deandra from Party Shop Avenue!
In this episode, we chat with Deandra Jalisa, the creative force behind Party Shop Avenue, who shares her inspiring journey and insights on networking, mentorship, and leveraging social media to showcase her luxury balloon designs. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this conversation offers valuable tips to elevate your event planning skills!
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Season 2 Trailer ON AIR with LA Balloons Podcast!
Season 2 of 'On Air with LA Balloons' is here, and Karen and Andrew are back! This season teaser gives you a sneak peek of what's to come—pricing strategies, fun games, exciting giveaways, and surprise guest appearances spilling insider secrets. Expect plenty of laughs, some tears, and a whole lot more fun along the way. Buckle up for an even bigger and better season
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GET THE SCOOP:
• Get to Know Us - Personal stories, fun facts, & insights from the team behind LA Balloons!
• Announcements: Industry news, upcoming events, and new products
• Motivation and Inspiration
• Client Stories and Artist Highlights
• Tips and Tricks of the Trade
• Giveaways and Chisme (Gossip) !
The Hosts:
Karen Santamaria
LA Balloons Logistics & Project Manager
Meet Karen, a CSULA alumni with a Bachelor's degree in Child Development, blazing her own trail in the world with a sprinkle of fun and a whole lot of creativity. Despite her shy nature, Karen's all about having a good time and spreading joy wherever she goes. She's also a certified wanderlust traveler, animal lover, and a baking extraordinaire. Want a sneak peek at her sweet creations? Follow her journey @SweetenedByKay for a delicious dose of eye candy!
But wait, there's more! In her day job, Karen is the Logistics and Project Manager at LA Balloons, where she and her awesome team work diligently to make sure your orders arrive faster than you can say "inflate!" And as if that wasn't cool enough, she's also the host of the "ON AIR with LA Balloons" podcast. Tune in to get to know Karen under the lights of a podcast!
Andrew Simon
LA Balloons General Manager
Introducing Andrew, the vibrant heartbeat of LA Balloons! 🎈As our dedicated GM, he's the guiding force behind our quest to deliver nothing short of exceptional service to the balloon community! In 2016, he moved across the country from Maryland to Los Angeles, Ca with his wife Liz and their cat Lionyl. Drawn by the irresistible trifecta of delicious food, invigorating fitness, and that quintessential beach vibe! 🏖️
Andrew graduated with a his bachelor's degree in biology from Towson University in Maryland, and then spent 12 years opening and managing stores all around the US for Under Armour and Abercrombie and Fitch. An expert in people development, operational management, and service satisfaction, he joined the team at LA Balloons in 2018 where he was introduced to the wonderful world of balloons! His diverse background in painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography lends him a unique perspective and appreciation for the balloon industry.Outside the office, Andrew is an avid chocolate enthusiast, rarely going a day without a small treat. He's also the host of the "ON AIR with LA Balloons" podcast, sharing valuable insights, practical tips, and his perspectives on life. When he's not spreading balloon joy, you'll find him hitting the gym, cruising on his motorcycle, or savoring brunch on Sundays—especially if it involves his favorite Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies!
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