From NYPD Beat Cop to Hollywood Actor + Life-Saving Street Safety Training and a Story of Faith
In this episode of the Passage to Profit Show, Richard Gearhart and Elizabeth Gearhart speak with an extraordinary group of guests whose stories highlight perseverance, entrepreneurship, public safety, and faith.
The featured guest is actor, writer, producer, and former NYPD officer Joe Cirillo, whose remarkable journey from policing the streets of New York City to appearing in major Hollywood productions proves that unexpected opportunities can change a life forever.
The episode also features two innovative entrepreneurial ventures. Yvan Morel Tchapda Yomba and Michael Loureiro, founders of Street Ready, discuss their mission to train everyday people to respond effectively in dangerous situations through self-defense, first aid, and de-escalation education. Returning guest Antonia Tomao, founder of Antonia’s Promise, shares how personal tragedy and healing inspired her mission to spread messages of faith, hope, and positivity through her podcast and product line.
Together, these guests explore how storytelling can power marketing, strengthen communities, and inspire others to take action in their own lives.
Joe Cirillo – Actor, Author, and Former NYPD Officer
Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0162748/
Joe Cirillo’s life story reads like a Hollywood screenplay. After serving 20 years in the New York Police Department, Cirillo was unexpectedly introduced to the entertainment industry while working a police assignment near the American Museum of Natural History. Through connections with prominent residents in the neighborhood—including director Mike Nichols—he was offered an opportunity to audition.
That opportunity led to a role in The Godfather, launching a career that would include appearances in iconic films such as Ghostbusters and Splash, as well as television shows like Kojak. Cirillo later worked closely with actors and filmmakers through his security company that specialized in protecting film productions and celebrities.
Beyond acting, Cirillo is also an author and screenwriter. His autobiography, “An Offer I Couldn’t Refuse: From the NYPD to Hollywood,” recounts his experiences as a police officer, actor, and entrepreneur.
During the conversation, Cirillo shares:
- How storytelling helped build his security business
- What it was like working with major Hollywood stars
- The surprising moment that launched his acting career
- Lessons about perseverance and saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities
His biggest entrepreneurial secret? Never give up.
Yvan Morel Tchapda Yomba and Michael Loureiro – Street Ready
Website: https://www.streetreadynj.com/
Entrepreneurs Yvan Morel Tchapda Yomba and Michael Loureiro founded Street Ready, an education company focused on helping ordinary people respond to emergencies and potentially dangerous situations.
Their mission is to “create a first responder out of every citizen.”
Street Ready programs teach three essential pillars:
- First Aid and CPR
- Self-Defense and Personal Safety
- Conflict De-Escalation
Yomba, a soon-to-be physician, brings medical expertise and insight into how lives can be lost simply because bystanders don’t know how to respond in emergencies. Loureiro contributes more than 20 years of martial arts training, including teaching self-defense techniques to law enforcement officers.
Through interactive seminars held in schools, businesses, and community organizations, Street Ready provides hands-on training and realistic scenarios that help participants build situational awareness and confidence.
Topics discussed in the episode include:
- Recognizing dangerous situations before they escalate
- Why situational awareness is one of the most important safety skills
- How de-escalation can prevent violence and conflict
- Real stories of people who used these skills to save lives
Their goal is simple: help people become prepared instead of powerless in emergencies.
Antonia Tomao – Antonia’s Promise
Website: https://antoniaspromise.com/
Antonia Tomao, founder of Antonia’s Promise, returns to the show to discuss the growth of her brand and her mission to spread faith-centered messages of hope and healing.
Antonia’s journey began after a deeply personal and life-changing experience in which she nearly lost her life. Following what she describes as a miraculous recovery, she made a promise to dedicate her life to helping others find strength, faith, and purpose.
Today, Antonia’s Promise includes:
- A podcast focused on stories of healing, miracles, and hope
- Faith-inspired jewelry and merchandise
- Inspirational speaking engagements
Through storytelling and authentic conversations, Antonia aims to remind people that they are not alone in their struggles.
Since launching her podcast, she has seen growing engagement with her brand, new speaking opportunities, and increased interest in her products.
Her message is simple but powerful: everyone has a story, and sharing those stories can inspire healing and connection.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Storytelling is a powerful marketing and connection tool for entrepreneurs and creators.
- Unexpected opportunities can lead to entirely new careers.
- Safety training and situational awareness can save lives.
- Podcasting can help entrepreneurs build authentic relationships with their audience.
- Perseverance, passion, and faith are recurring themes in successful entrepreneurial journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Joe Cirillo?
Joe Cirillo is an actor, writer, and former New York Police Department officer who appeared in films such as The Godfather, Ghostbusters, and Splash. He also ran a successful security business serving film productions and celebrities.
What is Street Ready?
Street Ready is an educational company founded by Yvan Morel Tchapda Yomba and Michael Loureiro that teaches everyday people essential safety skills including self-defense, first aid, and de-escalation.
What does Street Ready teach?
Their training focuses on three core areas: first aid and emergency response, self-defense techniques, and strategies for de-escalating potentially dangerous situations.
What is Antonia’s Promise?
Antonia’s Promise is a brand founded by Antonia Tomao that shares messages of faith, hope, and healing through a podcast, inspirational products, and speaking engagements.
How can storytelling help entrepreneurs?
Storytelling helps entrepreneurs connect emotionally with audiences, communicate their mission more effectively, and build stronger brand loyalty.