In this episode of In The Studio with J Haleem, we dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship, literacy, and reinvention with Joshua Dana, founder of Mad Red Books — one of Las Vegas’s newest independent bookstores.

Joshua’s journey is far from typical: from journalist to nightlife magazine owner, from real estate investor to bookstore entrepreneur. He proves that success isn’t a straight line, and that passion for knowledge can turn into a thriving business.

Together, Joshua and J Haleem explore the importance of reading, entrepreneurship as a second act, and the power of staying curious. This episode is for dreamers, doers, and anyone who’s ever thought, “It’s too late to start over.”

In The Studio with J Haleem features authentic, unfiltered conversations with entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders shaping culture in Las Vegas and beyond. Every episode blends humor, hustle, and heart — reminding you that success starts with your story.

• 📺 Watch on YouTube: @InTheStudioWithJHaleem
• 💼 Follow J Haleem: JHaleem.com | @IamJHaleem

In this high-energy, no-excuses episode, J Haleem sits down with Wanda Luna, founder and CEO of Universal Furniture Design, one of Las Vegas’s most sought-after custom furniture manufacturers for the hospitality industry.

Born in Honduras and raised in Orange County, California, Wanda shares her journey from government logistics to entrepreneurship in a completely new industry—upholstery and custom furniture design. Starting from a garage with zero experience, she turned faith, hustle, and grit into contracts with major casinos like Caesars Palace, Treasure Island, and Hilton Hotels.

This conversation is a masterclass on self-belief, resilience, and what it means to be a Latina business owner breaking barriers in Las Vegas’s multi-million-dollar hospitality supply chain.

02:00 – Meet Wanda Luna – from Honduras to Orange County to Las Vegas

07:30 – How a random Facebook job offer changed her life

11:00 – Falling in love with upholstery and design

16:45 – Learning sales the authentic way – being genuine wins every time

23:20 – Starting UFD Vegas in a garage with faith and a champagne bottle

28:30 – Getting her first big break with Caesars Palace & Treasure Island

34:00 – Expanding from one garage to multiple bays – manifestation & momentum

41:00 – The importance of believers like Raul – the power of support

49:15 – How to fake it till you make it (ethically) – “manifest your shop”

55:00 – Expanding to L.A. – scaling for labor and logistics

1:05:00 – Breaking into the casino supply chain

1:14:00 – Faith and hustle – why you must make room for your blessing

1:21:00 – Advice for women in business: “Stop being afraid of the no.”

1:29:30 – Collaboration over competition – sisters lifting each other

1:38:00 – Closing words on faith, hustle, and purpose

In this uplifting and empowering episode of In the Studio with J Haleem, we sit down with Dr. Monica Larson, City Councilwoman for Henderson, Nevada, who embodies what it means to lead with faith, humility, and integrity.

From her humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming the first African American woman ever elected to the Henderson City Council, Dr. Larson shares her remarkable story of perseverance, service, and divine purpose. She opens up about balancing family, career, and calling — and how her unwavering faith in God has guided every step.

This conversation reminds us that leadership isn’t about position — it’s about purpose.

00:00 – Sponsored by Rhino Roofing

01:15 – “I’m in the studio with J Haleem!” – Opening montage

03:10 – Meet Dr. Monica Larson — leadership through faith and service

07:00 – From Chicago roots to Henderson City Hall: the journey of perseverance

10:20 – Lessons from her mother: hard work, integrity, and smiling through struggle

14:45 – Learning discernment and using corporate America as a tool for growth

21:00 – Finding mentorship and seizing opportunities at Chevron and AT&T

27:30 – The importance of stock literacy, tuition reimbursement, and preparation

33:10 – Volunteering 30 hours a week while working full-time and raising a family

39:40 – Discovering purpose through psychology, forensics, and community service

46:20 – Why faith is the foundation for every decision

50:00 – How Henderson became home — and how community service led to public office

55:15 – Starting a neighborhood watch and hearing God’s call to run for City Council

1:00:30 – Running a campaign with no political background and two nickels to rub together

1:08:40 – Building trust and unity in local government

1:13:20 – Diversifying Henderson’s economy: new jobs, housing, and education reform

1:25:00 – Why mentorship, gratitude, and faith sustain real success

1:32:00 – The importance of women walking in Proverbs 31 power

1:40:30 – Dr. Larson’s message to young women and future leaders

1:48:00 – Closing reflections: “You’re already equipped for greatness.”