Episode 378
Steve Haddadin, National Wagyu Day
Welcome back to Your World of Creativity, the podcast where we explore the creative process across industries, around the globe, and from the stage to the studio. Today, we’re talking steaks, strategy, and storytelling with a guest whose creativity spans real estate, law, mixology—and Wagyu. Yes, you heard that right.
Joining us is Steve Haddadin, an accomplished entrepreneur with a decade-long real estate career, a newly sworn-in attorney, and the founder of National Wagyu Day—celebrated every June 21st on his birthday.
We’ll hear how this idea came to life, and how Steve continues to blend innovation into every area of his career.
1: THE BIRTH OF NATIONAL WAGYU DAY
Steve, let’s start with what makes this episode so delicious—National Wagyu Day. What inspired you to create this celebration of Wagyu beef, and how did you go about officially declaring it?
- You’ve said the day welcomes both seasoned connoisseurs and first-timers—why was that inclusive spirit important to you?
- Why June 21st—and how does the symbolism of the summer solstice add to the day’s meaning?
2: THE FLAVOR OF CREATIVITY
Your creativity clearly doesn’t stop at business—tell us about the Smokin’ Steve Old Fashioned cocktail you developed. What sparked that idea, and how does a drink become an experience?
- What role does sensory experience play in your creative work?
- How did your travels—like Japan or the Whiskey and Bourbon trails—influence your flavor creativity?
3: BUILDING BRANDS WITH BOLD IDEAS
Let’s zoom out a bit. You've scaled a real estate brokerage, installed EV charging stations, and passed the bar exam—all while launching personal brands. What’s your framework for bringing an idea to life?
- You’ve said, ‘The more something is looked at as crazy or impossible, the more excited I get.’ How do you manage risk while staying excited about disruption?
- How do you decide when an idea is worth turning into a movement—like you did with Wagyu Day?
4: CREATIVE LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY IMPACT
Your work with the CSUF Center for Real Estate and your student endowment shows a passion for giving back. How do you bring creativity into mentorship and leadership?
- What does legacy mean to you?
5: WHAT’S NEXT ON YOUR CREATIVE MENU?
You’ve accomplished so much already—and at such a young age. What’s next for you creatively? More food ventures, legal advocacy, tech innovation?
Steve, what a treat—literally and creatively. Thanks for sharing your journey and how you’ve brought bold, flavorful ideas to life across industries. And listeners, whether you’re enjoying Wagyu or Old Fashioneds—or just building your next creative venture—we hope this episode inspired you.
And a special thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee Roasters. You can enjoy 10% off your first order at WhiteCloudCoffee.com with the code CREATIVITY at checkout.
Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Your World of Creativity wherever you listen to podcasts—and come back again as we continue exploring how creative professionals around the world turn ideas into action.
