We had the good fortune of connecting with Juan Montoya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Juan, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has definitely morphed over time. In my younger years, it was more along the lines of “Go. Go. GO!”, in relation to the dedication I had to my 9 to 5. I always remained very active in recreational sports and social gatherings. Even though that was the case, I would take any opening I had for more hours. Shifts covered, coming in on days off, coming in early, staying late, etc. Only because I didn’t yet have kids.

Once kids came into the balance, I became more rigid with what could be expected of me from day to day. I aimed to be more present in their little lives. An immense contribution to make that all possible came from my prior work ethic. I became very efficient at what I did for my career and that allowed for more life experiences outside my work. I have come to know what to expect from my 9 to 5. What is expected of me because of my ability to execute and discipline. All of which has opened the door to more free time to pursue passions and other endeavors.

One must work to live.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I always aim to stand out in my career as an efficient producer. I also set a personal goal to have everyone exiting an interaction or conversation with me more informed, enlightened and refreshed. And vice versa. At the end of the day, we are fuel for each other.

I arrived at this level in my career from all those that came before me and were open with their wisdom. It was not easy. I was a complete novice when I entered the field and our clientele expected borderline expert-level guidance. What I’ve learned from working at a musical instrument retailer, for the last 13 years, is the customer experience is everything. Don’t BS people. Give them space and tools to help themselves find a unique path.

In sales, product knowledge is everything. It leads to volume. And not just the knowledge about features and specs, but exactly how those would apply and be beneficial to this particular individual. Not just knowing what would be best, but best in that moment. Like quantity on hand and history of quality control to name a couple examples. People come to you with their problems and you guide them to various solutions.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Camelback Mountain’s Echo Canyon Trail Head for a great challenge. It’s the highest peak in the Phoenix-metropolis and a very challenging 2 miles.

After burning all those calories, now you have room to hit the Local Donut and snag my boy, Dave Miranda’s signature donut. The “Just Give Me 5” donut named after his highly touted interview series highlighting big names and cultural figures in Arizona’s long and vibrant history.

IMPROVmania in Downtown Chandler for some “off-the-cuff” laughs. Improv, stand-up, and more!

The hidden speakeasy, White Rabbit, in downtown Gilbert is a must visit. Only accessible via code word and once you’ve figured out the secret entrance.

Go underground to the Rolling Piano bar on Mill Ave, just off ASU campus, for some lively tunes, karaoke, and just about any request you can try and stump the pianists with. I’ve yet to succeed.

Get on the horn with Scottsdale Nights to book us some some bottle service. Either at The Golden Margarita on Roosevelt Row or that night’s hotspot in Old Town Scottsdale. Always guaranteed to garner stories of debauchery.

Paying a visit to the MIM is a must. The Musical Instrument Museum in North Phoenix has a major collection spanning hundreds of instruments, over thousands of years, and countless cultures.

And of course, hitting any of the live music venues to catch one of the many great bands that Arizona has to offer. Rebel Lounge, The Rhythm Room, Last Exit, Crescent Ballroom, Pub Rock, Yucca Tap, and Copper Blues to name a few.

Before you leave, one must make sure to have eaten Al Pastor street tacos and a Sonoran Hot Dog.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My story is filled with many voices and minds. Big ups to my workout group, F3 (ALWAYS FREE & Outdoors, open to all men). Podcasts like the JRE, Onnit, DTFH, to name a few. Books of all walks: Atomic Habits, 12 Rules for Life, Extreme Ownership, Siddhartha, Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows, Selling the Wheel, and so much more.

Website: www.ThisJuanTime.com

Instagram: @JuanTimePodcast

Twitter: @JuanTimePodcast

Facebook: @ThisJuanTime

Youtube: This Juan Time

Other: Clothing T-shirt design brand: @MeteorykLLC www.Meteoryk.com Band: @TheMetropolisMan Latest Single: “Thirsty Land” Out NOW

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