Million Dollar Relationships: Recent Episodes

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What if every door that ever opened for you started with a message you almost didn't send? In this episode, Susanne Sandler, SVP and GM of Fintech at Mews, a $2.5 billion global hotel technology company, shares how a bold application as a college sophomore led her into the office of the CFO of Merrill Lynch, and how a cold message to a keynote speaker years later led to six years working alongside the future CEO of Booking Holdings.

Susanne runs the fintech division at Mews, which accounts for 75% of company revenue. But the principles that drive how she leads trace back to two men who saw her potential before she did, and to one simple belief: you miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

[00:03:48] What She Does and Who She Serves * SVP and GM of Fintech at Mews, a $2.5 billion global vertical SaaS company * Mews calls itself the operating system for modern hotels * Runs the fintech business, which is about 75% of company revenue

[00:04:30] Who Mews Serves * Serves everything from small mom and pop hotels to large global chains * Partnerships with Best Western, Choice, and the Asian American Hotel Owners Association * AHOA members make up about 60% of US hotels

[00:05:30] What Inspires Her * Travel is where people have their most memorable experiences * Most people name a trip when asked about their best moments of the year * Mews removes the manual work so hotels can focus on the guest experience

[00:06:48] How She Got Here * Started her career in financial services and investing in financial companies * Won her undergraduate business plan competition and launched a tech startup in New York * The last 12 to 13 years have been focused on travel tech and fintech * Says she feels lucky every day doing work that combines both passions

[00:08:17] Client Impact: The Multi-Currency Win * Launched a product letting hotels offer FX services to guests * Guests can lock in their price in their own currency * Hotels now earn markup revenue that previously went to banks and card networks * Some hotels cover the full cost of all their Mews services from this product alone

[00:10:52] AI at Mews: Thoughtful, Not Trendy * Building a semantic data layer combining guest, property, and payments data * The goal is better insights and experiences, not just cutting headcount * Early results from the approach have been incredible

[00:12:11] The Vision for Fintech at Mews * Wants to build a holistic financial suite for hotels * Expanding beyond payments into accounts, loans, and supplier payments * Everything is deeply embedded and connected to hotel data

[00:13:27] Why Hospitality Is Underserved * Hotels have seasonal cash flow that banks struggle to understand * Mews holds all bookings data plus a revenue management system * That gives a full forward-looking picture of the business * Underwriting becomes far easier than a bank reading old financial statements

[00:15:08] The First Relationship That Changed Everything * Saw an internship posting at NYU Stern for the CFO of Merrill Lynch * Assumed it couldn't be the real CFO; applied anyway * Walked in thinking worst case she meets someone impressive, best case she gets the job * A short-term role became over two years with growing hours and responsibility

[00:17:54] What She Learned from Him * Finding people who believe in you and see your potential is everything * Learned resilience by working under constant high-pressure stakes * He was precise and held her fully accountable for her numbers * People still compliment her composure; she credits that early training

[00:20:24] Treating Every Human with Respect * Watched him treat the person cleaning his office the same as a head of state * He did it because it was right, not for gain * That taught her the kind of person she wanted to become as she grew senior

[00:21:31] How He Set Her Up After College * He opened doors to meetings with teams across Merrill Lynch * She still had to prove herself and work the grueling hours * Landed a role investing in equity, debt, and early fintech companies * That first role set the tone for the next 20 years

[00:25:02] What Makes Mentorship Actually Work * Both sides have to invest in the relationship * Assigned mentorships often fail; organic ones tend to succeed * Nobody owes you anything; it is all give and take

[00:26:13] The Second Relationship: Glenn Fogel * Saw Glenn deliver a keynote at a conference in 2013 and was blown away * He told the story of rebuilding Priceline after the dot-com crash * The company is now Booking Holdings with a $135 billion market cap

[00:28:18] The Cold Message That Changed Her Career * Reached out just to tell him the presentation was incredible * He responded, they talked, and he ended up hiring her * She worked with him and his team for over six years

[00:29:08] What She Learned from Glenn * Got a front row seat as he became CEO of Booking Holdings in 2017 * Was handed some of the most critical projects for the business * Learned what leadership looks like at the highest level * Left only because she had learned enough to run a company at IAC

[00:31:26] You Miss 100% of the Shots You Don't Take * For every story that worked, there are hundreds that went nowhere * She repeats the Gretzky line whenever imposter syndrome shows up * There is almost no downside to taking the shot

[00:33:10] Why Glenn Still Makes Time * Even as a global CEO, he finds time for people who reach out * He has never become overconfident or self-important * He continues supporting people who did right by him * Relationships become exponentially more valuable as both people grow

KEY QUOTES "Finding those people who believe in you and see potential in you, I would say, is so important." - Susanne Sandler

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. I say that to myself a lot when I'm like, well, what's the point?" - Susanne Sandler

"That's how we all give back, and that's how we all create this great karma in the world and support each other." - Susanne Sandler

CONNECT WITH SUSANNE SANDLER Website: https://www.mews.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannegreenfield

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What if the most important introduction of your career started with raking a sand bunker?

In this episode, Bob Whalen, CEO of HB Global and author of Beyond Your Ownership, shares how a 112-year-old mechanical contracting company in Central Pennsylvania became one of the most powerful examples of employee ownership in America. Today HB Global has 2,500 employee owners, over $215 million in value sitting in Pennsylvania employee accounts, and a mission that Bob describes simply: serve the employees who own the company.

None of it would have happened without a caddy job at a golf tournament 40 years ago, a board member named Mark Caldwell who came to Bob unsolicited, and a high school football coach who made a phone call he never had to make.

[00:06:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * CEO of HB Global, an employee-owned holding company of mechanical contracting and service businesses * Serves HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and construction clients across commercial and residential sectors * Primary mission is serving the 2,500 employees who own the company through an ESOP

[00:09:00] How He Got Here * Came out of his MBA in 2004 wanting to lead a business like a sports team * Got an opportunity to join H.B. McClure, a 94-year-old iconic company in Central Pennsylvania * Joined in April 2008; didn't know yet that the recession had already started * Bought a minority interest and used business cash flows to acquire the rest

[00:11:00] The ESOP Discovery * Looking for tax efficiency in the ownership transition led him to employee stock ownership plans * In October 2010, sold the business to an ESOP trust; it changed his entire professional mission * The median ESOP balance for employees who were there in 2010 is now over half a million dollars * Over $215 million in value now sits in accounts of people living in Pennsylvania communities

[00:12:00] The Book and the Mission * Wrote Beyond Your Ownership to create awareness for business owners planning succession * Ten million businesses are expected to need a succession plan over the next decade * Selling back to employees keeps jobs local, builds community wealth, and preserves legacy * Most sellers become disenchanted after selling; an ESOP keeps the legacy and culture intact

[00:19:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Mark Caldwell * Forty years ago, Bob caddied for his father-in-law and his partner at a golf tournament * That partner was Mark Caldwell, who 20 years later sat on the board of H.B. McClure * Mark came to Bob unsolicited and asked if he would be interested in the succession of the company * That one invitation, which started on a golf course, had the biggest professional impact of Bob's life

[00:22:00] What That Relationship Taught Him * Relationships are built over long periods of time; short-term effort creates long-term results * Bob gave more than he received throughout the relationship; Mark gave back far more than Bob ever gave * Most things in life come from a disciplined, consistent approach over a long period of time * His whole philosophy: give more than you receive

[00:23:00] The Second Relationship: Coach Ray Erdy and Coach Bob Craig * A local high school football coach reached out unsolicited to William and Mary on Bob's behalf * Bob was injured most of his senior year; there wasn't much film on him, but the coach believed in him anyway * His wrestling coach Bob Craig lived the same philosophy: helped any athlete who wanted his help * His daughter's pole vault coach did the same; it taught Bob that giving freely is both right and rewarding

[00:28:00] How to Get Involved with ESOPs * Companies can either start their own ESOP or sell to an existing one like HB Global * Setting up your own ESOP costs multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars and roughly $75,000 to $100,000 a year to operate * There is no size threshold for selling to an existing ESOP; HB Global has acquired companies with as few as two to five employees * Website is hb-global.com; Bob makes himself available to any owner interested in employee ownership

KEY QUOTES "Give more than you receive. Mark showed me that. If you figure that out early, it leads to a lot of good things down the road." - Bob Whalen

"I've never turned down an introduction from a good friend. In my 56 years, not one time." - Bob Whalen

CONNECT WITH BOB WHALEN Website: https://www.hb-global.com

Book: https://a.co/d/0i8Xi6Rg

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-whalen-4023a21b

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What if the two words you never meant to say turned out to be the most important words of your life?

In this episode, Ryan Lee, founder of Wealth Outside Wall Street and author of Retire in 10 Years or Less, shares how losing most of his net worth in 2008 led him to discover a completely different way of thinking about money. He retired at 34, not because he was rich, but because he had built enough cash flow from 17 rental properties to walk away from a job he never wanted.

The moment came when his boss Rob showed up unexpectedly to offer him more territory. Ryan was sitting there mentally counting his cash flow when Rob asked if he was ready. Without thinking, he said "I quit." He spent the next decade teaching over 3,000 people to do the same.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder of Wealth Outside Wall Street, helping driven individuals take control of their money * Serves entrepreneurs, business owners, and freedom seekers who want more control over their time * Believes money's greatest value is giving people more options with their time

[00:06:00] How He Got Here * Dropped out of high school; came back at 23 and finished a four-year degree in two * Moved to Arizona for his first corporate job; opened his first paycheck and nearly quit on the spot * Was making less as a college grad than he was as a self-employed hustler paying his way through school * Decided to climb the corporate ladder instead; 2008 changed everything

[00:09:00] The 2008 Wake-Up Call * Watched his net worth drop from $100,000 to $28,000 at the bottom of the crash * Realized he had no control over the outcome of what he was investing in * Saw people 20 to 30 years ahead of him watching their retirements melt away * Decided he had to find a completely different way to think about money

[00:11:00] The Books That Changed His Paradigm * Picked up Rich Dad Poor Dad after 2008; the phrase "savers are losers" hit him like a slap * Found Creating Wealth by Robert Allen with a subtitle promising retirement in 10 years * The strategy was simple: buy two single-family homes a year for 10 years * That concept filled the void Kiyosaki opened and gave him a concrete path forward

[00:14:00] The Day He Quit * Was managing the Denver territory for a medical equipment company when his boss Rob showed up unexpectedly * Rob offered him three additional territories; more road, more travel, more time away from family * While Rob was talking, Ryan was mentally adding up his cash flow from 17 rental properties * Rob asked if he was ready; Ryan looked up and said "I quit" without planning to

[00:17:00] The First Client Who Started It All: Dr. Wes Brown * A week after quitting, a doctor he used to sell equipment to called and asked how he did it * Sat with him at his kitchen table and mapped out what he would do if he were in his position * Eighteen months later Dr. Brown quit medicine and has been singing in his choir ever since * That one conversation led to 3,000 clients; Dr. Brown started sending referrals immediately

[00:21:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Russell Brunson * After three years and 250 clients, wanted to reach more people but had no idea how to go online * Read Dotcom Secrets in 18 hours; it was a manual for everything he wanted but didn't know how to do * Found out Brunson was hosting an event in San Diego in 10 days; bought tickets and showed up * Paid $25,000 to join his inner circle; says the return has been 10x what he ever paid

[00:25:00] The Second and Third Relationships: Robert Allen and Robert Kiyosaki * Hosted a live event and decided to invite the two authors who had shaped his entire philosophy * Used mutual friend Randy Garn to connect with Robert Allen; got to Kiyosaki through another connection * Gave them both lifetime achievement awards on stage; Allen said it was the most fulfilled he had ever felt by writing a book * Allen co-authored his new book Retire in 10 Years or Less; Kiyosaki wrote the foreword

[00:32:00] Final Word: Mindset, Skillset, Network * The three best investments anyone can make are mindset, skillset, and network * Mindset determines what you can see; upgrade your paradigm and new possibilities appear * A strong network means you always have someone to call when things get hard or when things are great * Be the kind of person others call in a crisis; that is the greatest form of leverage you can have

KEY QUOTES "Money's greatest intrinsic value is to give each one of us more control over our time and more options with what we do with that time." - Ryan Lee

"Mindset, skillset, network. Those are the three best investments you can ever make." - Ryan Lee

CONNECT WITH RYAN LEE Website: https://www.wealthoutsidewallstreet.com

Book: https://www.retirein10years.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-d-lee-31838b304

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.d.lee.50

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What if the person who shaped your entire career was someone you met on a soccer pitch at university?

In this episode, Kieran Corbett, venture capital professional at StudioVC in New York, shares how a 13-year career in futures trading, a soccer club chairmanship at university, and one chance encounter at an event in New York led him to the second chapter of his career in early-stage venture capital.

Kieran grew up watching his brother build Wayflyer, an Irish unicorn, from the inside. He watched a mentor named Kieran Nestor walk into any room and connect with anyone. Those two relationships didn't just shape who Kieran became. They pointed him directly toward the career he is building today.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Works at StudioVC, a seed-stage VC fund based in New York City * Invests in B2B SaaS, enterprise AI, and fintech founders post-product and post-revenue * Serves both founders looking for capital and investors looking to deploy it

[00:06:00] How He Got Here: From Futures Trading to Venture Capital * Started as a futures trader at Positive Equity in Dublin at 23 * Traded a wide variety of products for 13 years; moved to New York in 2016 * Started angel investing on the side while still trading * Made the full move to venture capital in September 2024

[00:08:00] Finding StudioVC * Joined the Venture Institute accelerator to build knowledge of the VC industry * Got a residency placement at Geek Ventures, a fund investing in immigrant founders * Met StudioVC principal Toby McCoy at an event; discovered they shared an investment in Wayflyer * After several meetings over the following year, joined the team

[00:10:00] What Inspires Him * Loves being on the journey with founders as they grow and face challenges * Finds it deeply satisfying to make introductions that unlock new doors for companies * Sees AI as one of the most exciting spaces in early-stage investing right now

[00:11:00] Client Impact: Helping Founders Raise Their First Capital * Has introduced founders to investors who were the right fit for what they were building * Raising capital at the seed stage is one of the hardest things a first-time founder can do * Getting the right people in the room can be the single biggest unlock for an early company

[00:13:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Kieran Nestor * Met Kieran Nestor through the UCC soccer club in Cork when he started university in 2006 * Nestor was the chairman of the alumni and the first real entrepreneur Kieran had ever met * Took Kieran under his wing, gave him enormous amounts of his time, and taught him how to build relationships * Twenty years later they still talk; Kieran credits him with sparking the desire to own his own destiny

[00:16:00] The Second Relationship: His Brother * His brother founded Wayflyer, an Irish unicorn doing revenue-based financing for e-commerce businesses * Gave Kieran an inside look at what building a successful company actually looks like * That relationship also created a natural alignment with StudioVC, who were investors in Wayflyer * His brother's journey pointed him directly toward the private markets career he is now in

[00:18:00] The Impact That Shaped Him: Chairman of the Soccer Club * Nestor made him secretary of the soccer club in his second year at university * The following year he became chairman; a big responsibility at a very young age * The role forced him to get comfortable with public speaking and building relationships * That experience put him on the path toward wanting to be in rooms where he could make an impact

[00:20:00] Vision Going Forward * StudioVC has two performing funds and a talented small team in New York * Wants to grow the fund to invest larger amounts of capital with more great companies * Excited to build relationships with the next generation of founders in AI and technology

[00:22:00] Final Word: Say Yes to Everything * Met Joel Strauss in Madrid through his cousin; that relationship eventually led to this podcast * Encourages people starting something new to say yes to every coffee, every event, every connection * Not all of them will be great, but the ones that are can send you in a direction you never expected

KEY QUOTES "Say yes to everything. Not all of them will be fantastic, but the ones that are can really send you in a good direction." - Kieran Corbett

"Someone who had that hunger, that drive, and was also very generous with their time for the next crop of people coming through. That gave me a lot of inspiration from a very early age." - Kieran Corbett

CONNECT WITH KIERAN CORBETT Website: https://www.studio.vc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-corbett-a45b5a4

Email: kcorbett@studio.vc

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What if the moment a boss dismissed your vision was the exact moment your career truly began?

In this episode, Chris Rodgers, founder and CEO of CSP Agency, shares how a psychology major turned phone salesman found his way into SEO in the early days of pay-per-click advertising in Chicago. A meeting with a senior executive who didn't believe in what Chris was building gave him all the clarity he needed. He walked out, enrolled in a master's program, flipped his 401k, and never looked back.

Fifteen years later, CSP Agency is helping B2B and e-commerce companies navigate one of the biggest shifts in search since Google launched: the rise of generative engine optimization and the AI-driven conversational web.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder and CEO of CSP Agency, a human-first AI-enhanced SEO and GEO agency * Serves B2B and e-commerce clients from funded startups to Fortune 100 companies * Specializes in generative engine optimization, helping brands get found in AI-driven search

[00:06:00] What Inspires Him Right Now * The search and SEO landscape is going through the biggest shake-up in its history * Launched CSP's first paid GEO client in October; most competitors are still figuring it out * Brands that move now will be positioned far ahead when the dust settles

[00:07:00] The Future of Search: A Conversational Web * AI overviews and AI mode are already changing how people find information * The traditional ten blue links experience is going away * Google is launching informational agents this summer that will do research on your behalf * Visibility in this new world requires a completely different strategy than traditional SEO

[00:10:00] How He Got Here * Started selling popcorn door to door for Boy Scouts; always loved talking to people * Became a psychology major and worked as a patient activity director for a clinical trials company * Moved into sales at R.H. Donnelly in downtown Chicago and discovered pay-per-click advertising * Became the top rep for integrating and executing PPC across the division

[00:14:00] The Accidental SEO Discovery * Noticed that profile pages sending traffic from PPC were ranking highly on Google * Started optimizing those pages on sales calls; it was his first hands-on SEO work * Saw how much business he was driving for small companies and got completely hooked * Decided he wanted to be a practitioner, not just a seller of services

[00:16:00] Client Impact * Helped a New York executive assistant recruiting firm expand from local to national * A neighbor saw their growth and sent a referral; that is when Chris knew the work was speaking for itself * Has helped enterprise clients grow organic value from $9 million to $25 million a month

[00:19:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: The Executive Who Said No * Went to a senior executive at R.H. Donnelly to pitch a role change into SEO product development * The executive listened patiently and then said: I don't see how this helps your sales numbers * That response hit like a lightning bolt; Chris walked out knowing he was done * He enrolled in the master's program, flipped his 401k, and launched his first startup

[00:22:00] The Second Relationship: His Manager Who Opened the Door * His manager at R.H. Donnelly left to start an SEO agency when the company disbanded its SEO department * Chris went to him and asked not for a sales role but for an SEO execution role * His manager said yes, brought him in as a contract senior SEO analyst, and pointed him toward who to follow to learn * That was the real beginning of Chris's professional SEO career

[00:25:00] The Impact He Got to Make * Has created jobs for people at every stage of their careers, from interns to veteran SEOs * His first intern worked for school credit, graduated, and became the lead SEO in the organization * People have left CSP with resumes that got them into senior roles at major companies * Helping people grow in their careers has been one of the most meaningful parts of building the business

[00:28:00] Where to Find Them * Website is csp.agency; a complimentary strategy session is available on the site * The team will audit current SEO performance and run the brand through multiple LLMs against competitors * They show exactly where the brand is or is not showing up in AI-driven search responses

KEY QUOTES "When the snow globe gets shaken up and things aren't solidified, you've got a way to move up through it so that when it comes back down and solidifies, you're in a much higher place than before." - Chris Rodgers

"Where there's change, there's opportunity. There is an opportunity to get ahead of it right now." - Chris Rodgers

CONNECT WITH CHRIS RODGERS Website: https://www.csp.agency

Strategy Session: https://www.csp.agency/complimentary-strategy-session

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seo-dub

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What if the best leaders aren't the ones who avoid crises, but the ones who prepare for them before they happen?

In this episode, attorney, leadership consultant, retired military officer, and author Conan Higgins shares how decades of experience in the military, law enforcement, and the legal profession shaped his approach to crisis leadership. From responding to life-or-death situations to advising organizations through complex challenges, Conan explains why preparation, emotional intelligence, and strong relationships are the foundation of effective leadership.

Conan also discusses the inspiration behind his book, The Maverick's Blueprint: Crisis Leadership for an Unstable World, why every entrepreneur should develop an early warning system for their business, and how the relationships we build before a crisis often determine how well we navigate it when it arrives.

[00:02:45] What He Does and Who He Serves * Attorney, leadership consultant, retired Army officer, and former law enforcement officer. * Helps organizations prepare for and respond to complex crises. * Advises leaders on risk management, crisis response, and organizational resilience. * Believes leadership begins long before a crisis ever unfolds.

[00:06:30] Learning Leadership Through Service * Reflects on lessons from military service and law enforcement. * Explains how leading under pressure shaped his decision-making. * Learned that trust is built long before it's tested. * Says leadership is earned through consistency and service.

[00:12:00] Why Relationships Matter in a Crisis * Strong relationships create confidence when difficult decisions must be made. * Trust allows teams to communicate honestly during uncertainty. * Explains why credibility cannot be built in the middle of a crisis. * Believes people always remember how leaders made them feel during difficult moments.

[00:18:30] Solving Problems Before They Become Emergencies * Encourages leaders to identify risks before they become crises. * Shares examples of organizations that avoided major setbacks through preparation. * Explains why awareness is more valuable than reacting quickly. * Says successful leaders pay attention to small warning signs.

[00:25:00] The Value of Emotional Intelligence * Explains why emotional intelligence is essential during high-pressure situations. * Learned to read people before focusing on solving problems. * Understanding people often reveals the real challenge. * Believes empathy strengthens both leadership and decision-making.

[00:31:00] Lessons From Years of Experience * Reflects on the importance of learning from every assignment and every challenge. * Encourages leaders to capture lessons instead of simply moving on. * Says experience only becomes valuable when we intentionally reflect on it. * Believes growth comes through thoughtful evaluation.

[00:38:00] Why Relationships Require Consistency * Shares why checking in with people shouldn't only happen when something is needed. * Believes meaningful relationships are built through generosity and mutual support. * Says the strongest professional relationships naturally become trusted friendships. * Explains why investing in people always pays long-term dividends.

[00:45:00] Giving Before Asking * Describes healthy relationships as a continual exchange of giving and receiving. * Explains why genuine check-ins often lead to meaningful conversations. * Shares how trusted relationships become valuable sources of advice during difficult seasons. * Says crises become easier to navigate when you're surrounded by people you trust.

[00:46:30] The Story Behind His Book * Wrote The Maverick's Blueprint: Crisis Leadership for an Unstable World after stepping away from his doctoral dissertation. * Wanted the book to feel like a conversation rather than a textbook. * Focuses on practical leadership lessons people can apply immediately. * Encourages readers to recognize the value of their own life experiences.

[00:50:00] Price Versus Cost * Explains why investing in preparation is far less expensive than recovering from failure. * Shares a consulting example where a risk assessment prevented far greater losses. * Encourages leaders to think beyond immediate expenses. * Says understanding the true cost of inaction changes every decision.

[00:53:00] Building an Early Warning System * Introduces his DETECT Framework for identifying warning signs before crises escalate. * Says most crises leave clues long before they become emergencies. * Encourages leaders to listen closely to experts and frontline team members. * Believes preparation begins by learning what others are already seeing.

[00:56:00] Meaningful Action Over Busy Activity * Explains that activity isn't the same as progress. * Encourages organizations to continually evaluate communication, stakeholder alignment, and resource challenges. * Says leaders should develop systems that help them identify problems early. * Believes thoughtful preparation creates confident decision-makers.

[00:58:00] Slowing Down to Appreciate the Journey * Reflects on the people who shaped his career and leadership journey. * Shares the story of his detective partner stopping to admire Mount Rainier. * Uses the moment as a reminder to slow down and appreciate what's right in front of us. * Says meaningful relationships have been the greatest gift throughout his career.

KEY QUOTES "Crises will happen. That's the operating environment. Whether they're personal or professional, there will be days when you wish you could have stayed in bed, but you can't." - Conan Higgins

"If you don't have good people around you, that's a harder fight. Relationships are what help you navigate the days you never saw coming." - Conan Higgins

"Most crises aren't sudden events. Usually there are warning signs that were missed, ignored, or people simply weren't trained to recognize." - Conan Higgins

CONNECT WITH CONAN HIGGINS Website: https://conanhiggins.com

Book: The Maverick's Blueprint: Crisis Leadership for an Unstable World

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conanhiggins

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What if the greatest advantage in business isn't talent, but the willingness to keep learning and never give up?

In this episode, Carlos Antillano, Vice President of the Americas for Mauviel 1830, entrepreneur, author, and lifelong student, shares the journey that took him from selling cookware on eBay out of his bathroom to leading one of the world's most respected luxury cookware brands. Along the way, he reveals why curiosity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to learning have been the driving forces behind every opportunity he's earned.

Carlos also reflects on the relationships that shaped his leadership, from a scuba diving instructor who taught him confidence under pressure to a business mentor who helped him develop empathy for customers. Together, they explore why listening is one of the most valuable skills any entrepreneur can develop and how perseverance continues to open doors that once seemed impossible.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves

• Serves as Vice President of the Americas for Mauviel 1830, overseeing business across North and South America.
• Built multiple businesses in the digital commerce space before joining the luxury cookware industry.
• Combines entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation to help grow global brands.
• Continues to pursue new ideas while embracing emerging technologies like AI.

[00:06:00] Building a Career Through Curiosity

• Originally planned to become a doctor before discovering entrepreneurship.
• Started selling cookware on eBay after moving to the United States from Venezuela.
• Grew a business from a bathroom, to a storage unit, to a warehouse with employees.
• Returned full circle by leading the same cookware brand that gave him his first opportunity.

[00:09:00] Why Learning Never Stops

• Believes continuous learning is the foundation of long-term success.
• Encourages entrepreneurs to embrace failure as part of the learning process.
• Compares today's AI revolution to the early days of the internet.
• Says perseverance comes from staying curious, adapting, and continuing to grow.

[00:11:00] Helping Others Reach Their Potential

• Finds the greatest fulfillment in seeing people grow beyond what they believed was possible.
• Shares the story of an employee who developed into an industry expert under his mentorship.
• Speaks openly about mental health and the importance of supporting people beyond their professional development.
• Believes great leadership helps people thrive both personally and professionally.

[00:14:00] The Story Behind His Book

• Wrote The Ultimate Perseverance Training to encourage entrepreneurs facing setbacks and self-doubt.
• Opens up about his own struggles with mental health, balance, and resilience.
• Never intended to become an author but wanted others to know they weren't alone.
• Has since been invited to speak about perseverance, leadership, and mental wellness.

[00:19:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything

• Credits his scuba diving instructor, Tony Posimato, with shaping his confidence and leadership.
• Learned how to remain calm under pressure and recognize when others need support.
• Says the lessons he learned underwater continue to influence how he leads today.
• Believes those experiences prepared him for challenges far beyond diving.

[00:21:00] Learning to Lead with Empathy

• Credits Mauviel Chairwoman Valerie for changing the way he approaches leadership.
• Learned to understand customers by listening before offering solutions.
• Grew from a digital entrepreneur into a trusted leader within the culinary industry.
• Says empathy cannot be learned from books. It develops through relationships and experience.

[00:24:00] Relationships Open Doors

• Shares experiences working alongside leaders at Williams Sonoma, Amazon, and Michelin-starred chefs.
• Reflects on moments that once felt impossible but became reality through years of consistent growth.
• Shows how trusted relationships create opportunities that expertise alone cannot.
• Encourages entrepreneurs to remain humble as new opportunities emerge.

[00:30:00] The Power of Listening

• Believes listening is one of the greatest competitive advantages in business.
• Says meaningful relationships begin by understanding people before trying to help them.
• Explains that great leaders ask thoughtful questions and pay close attention to the answers.
• Encourages entrepreneurs to become connectors by first becoming better listeners.

[00:33:00] Final Thoughts: Never Give Up

• Honors his grandmother as the greatest example of perseverance in his life.
• Shares how her resilience continues to shape his mindset decades later.
• Reminds listeners that growth comes through persistence, not perfection.
• Leaves entrepreneurs with a simple message: keep learning, keep serving, and never give up.

KEY QUOTES "Scuba diving gave me structure, gave me leadership, gave me the ability to defeat those insecurities that are normal." - Carlos Antillano

"Failures are gonna come. It's part of life. It's how you are able to navigate through those failures and transform that failure into a lesson." - Carlos Antillano

"You just need to be open. It's a beautiful cycle at the end of the day. We have asked for help, and people have asked us for help." - Carlos Antillano

CONNECT WITH CARLOS ANTILLANO Website: https://mauviel-usa.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlosantillano

Book: The Ultimate Perseverance Training

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What if everything you've been searching for has been within you all along?

In this episode, Pratiqk Jaani, author of Drashti: The Perception and creator of the Drashti Method, shares the life-changing realization that transformed the way he experiences success, relationships, and everyday life. After years of pursuing achievement, personal growth, and external validation, he discovered that lasting fulfillment isn't something we find. It's something we remember.

Pratiqk explains how the subconscious mind shapes our beliefs, behaviors, and relationships, often without us realizing it. Through personal stories, practical examples, and thought-provoking analogies, he reveals how changing our perception can lead to greater peace, stronger relationships, and a life no longer driven by fear or the need for constant achievement.

[00:02:30] What He Does and Who He Serves * Author of Drashti: The Perception and creator of the Drashti Method. * Helps people understand the subconscious patterns behind fear, anxiety, and emotional struggle. * Guides individuals toward greater awareness, inner peace, and lasting fulfillment. * Believes lasting transformation begins by changing how we perceive ourselves and the world.

[00:05:00] The Search for Something More * Spent years pursuing success through business, personal development, and achievement. * Discovered that every accomplishment led to another goal instead of lasting fulfillment. * Began questioning why external success never felt complete. * Realized the answers he was seeking couldn't be found outside himself.

[00:08:00] Discovering Wholeness * Experienced a shift from constantly chasing to living from a place of completeness. * Learned that peace comes from recognizing what already exists within us. * Stopped measuring life by outcomes and started appreciating each experience. * Says fulfillment isn't something we achieve, but something we awaken to.

[00:12:00] Why We Keep Chasing * Explains how society conditions us to seek happiness through external achievements. * Believes most goals are driven by a desire to feel complete. * Shares why success alone can never satisfy the deeper longing within us. * Introduces the core philosophy behind the Drashti Method.

[00:16:00] The Closed Fist Analogy * Uses a clenched fist to illustrate how fear and tension block new opportunities. * Explains why operating from survival keeps people focused on scarcity. * Encourages people to relax their grip and trust the process. * Says openness allows life to unfold in unexpected ways.

[00:19:00] Turning Insight Into a Movement * Began sharing these ideas after witnessing profound change in others. * Wrote Drashti: The Perception to introduce a new way of understanding life. * Created the Drashti Method to help people experience those insights for themselves. * Describes the work as a calling rather than a career.

[00:21:00] Helping Others Break Through Fear * Shares the story of a friend who dreamed of leaving corporate life to start a car business. * Helped him realize his greatest obstacle was the fear of being judged. * Once that fear was addressed, he confidently launched his business. * Sold his first seven cars almost immediately after taking action.

[00:24:00] Letting Go of the Outcome * Explains why forcing results often creates unnecessary resistance. * Compares personal growth to planting a seed and allowing it time to grow. * Believes our responsibility is to take action without becoming attached to outcomes. * Says life often responds when we stop trying to control every detail.

[00:27:00] Seeing Life Through a Different Lens * Encourages people to stop labeling experiences as good or bad. * Uses simple everyday examples to illustrate how perception shapes reality. * Explains that every experience offers an opportunity for growth. * Believes acceptance creates greater peace than resistance.

[00:29:00] The Relationships That Shape Us * Credits both sets of grandparents for teaching sacrifice, unconditional love, and strong values. * Learned valuable lessons from mentors, friends, clients, and even difficult relationships. * Believes every relationship enters our lives for a reason. * Says the people around us often become our greatest teachers.

[00:33:00] Understanding the Patterns We Learned * Reflects on childhood experiences that shaped his beliefs about love and acceptance. * Realized he had learned to earn affection by constantly giving to others. * Explains that awareness is the first step toward lasting change. * Encourages people to address the root of their struggles instead of the symptoms.

[00:36:00] Relationships Without Expectations * Found greater freedom by serving others without expecting anything in return. * Says authentic relationships flourish when validation is no longer the goal. * Believes inner peace changes the way we show up for others. * Explains that fulfillment grows through genuine connection.

[00:38:00] When Healing Changes Everything * Shares how understanding subconscious patterns transformed the lives of people he has worked with. * Explains that awareness creates lasting change without relying on willpower alone. * Believes healing naturally strengthens families, friendships, and communities. * Says personal transformation always creates a ripple effect.

[00:41:00] Final Thoughts * Encourages listeners to begin with Drashti: The Perception before exploring the Drashti Method. * Invites people to approach the work with curiosity and an open mind. * Offers support for anyone seeking greater clarity, peace, and purpose. * Leaves listeners with a reminder that the freedom they seek has been within them all along.

KEY QUOTES "Everybody deserves the life they want. And because of the conditioning and because of the fears, people spend their life hoping that one day they will do it, and that day never comes." - Pratiqk Jaani

"No matter how much money you earn, you are always going to chase more because you're not really wanting more money. What you really want is to feel that fulfillment. To feel completeness." - Pratiqk Jaani

"If you want to receive something, you have to keep your arms open or your hands open. If you make a fist, you can't receive it." - Pratiqk Jaani

CONNECT WITH PRATIQK JAANI Website: https://www.pratiqkjaani.com

Drashti Method: https://www.drashtimethod.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pratiqkjaani

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janipratikk

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What if you're just one great relationship away from completely transforming your life or business?

In this episode, entrepreneur, sales expert, and eCircle Academy founder Nicky Billou shares why relationships have been the driving force behind every major breakthrough in his life and business. After losing his event business during the pandemic, he discovered a new path through podcast guesting. What started as a survival strategy became one of the most powerful client acquisition systems he has ever built.

Nicky also reflects on the people who changed the course of his life. He opens up about the mentor who helped him rebuild after divorce, the partnership he shares with his wife, Theresa, and the emotional client story that reminded him his work is about far more than business. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom, powerful relationship lessons, and a compelling reminder that one introduction can change everything.

[00:05:00] Serving Entrepreneurs Who Want to Make a Difference * Helps coaches, consultants, and service-based entrepreneurs grow their businesses. * Shows experts how to become more visible and attract ideal clients. * Believes entrepreneurs create meaningful change through service. * Teaches that selling should always come from a place of genuine care.

[00:08:00] When Everything Changed * His live event business came to a halt during the pandemic. * Lost a significant source of revenue almost overnight. * Turned to his coach to find a new way to grow his business. * Began exploring podcast guesting as a long-term strategy.

[00:10:00] One Hundred Podcasts in Thirty Days * Committed to appearing on as many podcasts as possible. * Completed 100 interviews in his first 30 days. * Didn't generate immediate business but gained invaluable experience. * Learned that repetition and consistency create mastery.

[00:13:00] The Three Intentions Behind Every Podcast Appearance * Inspire and educate the audience. * Help the host look great by delivering real value. * Build a meaningful business relationship with the host. * Explains why most guests overlook the biggest opportunity after the interview ends.

[00:18:00] Turning Conversations Into Business Relationships * Always sets aside time after the interview to connect with the host. * Practices intentional listening instead of waiting for his turn to speak. * Look for opportunities to serve before asking for anything. * Built hundreds of valuable business relationships through genuine conversations.

[00:24:00] Why Preparation Matters * Treats every podcast appearance like a planned business strategy. * Refined his approach through hundreds of interviews. * Encourages entrepreneurs to master proven systems before expecting results. * Says preparation creates confidence and consistency.

[00:26:00] The Results of Relationship-Based Podcasting * Turned podcast interviews into clients, partnerships, and mastermind enrollments. * Shares how one student landed a coaching client after a single podcast appearance. * Another client generated more than €124,000 in sales within 84 days. * Proves that authenticity matters more than perfect communication.

[00:29:00] The Relationship That Changed His Life * Opens up about the depression that followed his divorce. * Credits relationship coach Owen Williams with helping him rebuild. * Says that mentorship shaped his life as a father, entrepreneur, and husband. * Believes that one introduction eventually led him to meeting his wife, Theresa.

[00:33:00] Building a Business With Theresa * Shares how he and Theresa combine their strengths to serve clients. * Describes her as one of the best coaches he has ever worked with. * Believes strong relationships should always come before business decisions. * Shows how partnership strengthens both family and business.

[00:37:00] The Story That Became His Mission * Helped a struggling entrepreneur rebuild her business after losing everything. * Learned that restoring her income also restored peace within her family. * Was deeply moved when her son called him "the man who saved our family." * Left with the conviction that business is ultimately about serving people and changing lives.

KEY QUOTES "A lot of people will hear the strategy and think they're doing exactly what I said, but they're really doing what they think they heard. Success is in the nuances, and those nuances only come through preparation and repetition." - Nicky Billou

"Your podcast appearance isn't something you wing. It needs to be meticulously planned and executed. When you've done the work, it feels effortless to everyone else, but that's because you've mastered the process behind the scenes." - Nicky Billou

"You don't have to be the most articulate person in the room or have English as your first language. If you have a proven system, stay consistent, and keep showing up, the opportunities will come." - Nicky Billou

CONNECT WITH NICKY BILLOU Website: https://www.ecircleacademy.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickybillou

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicky.billou

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What if the life you've always wanted begins with telling yourself the truth?

In this episode, Kami Gray, founder of the Psychologie of Home Design School, shares the relationship that transformed every area of her life. What started as a reluctant decision to see a therapist became the beginning of a journey toward vulnerability, authenticity, and freedom from the labels she had carried for decades.

Kami opens up about the stories she believed about herself, why humor became her greatest defense, and how learning to tell the truth changed the way she leads, teaches, and builds community. She also shares how that personal transformation continues to impact the women she mentors, creating ripple effects that extend far beyond business.

[00:06:30] Helping Women Believe in Themselves

• Many of her students are beginning second or third careers later in life.
• Sees confidence as the biggest obstacle most aspiring entrepreneurs face.
• Finds the greatest joy in watching women overcome their own limiting beliefs.
• Believes personal growth is just as important as professional success.

[00:10:00] Success Begins Before You Feel Ready

• Encourages students to stop waiting until they feel qualified.
• Reminds them that every successful designer started as a beginner.
• Focuses on consistent action instead of perfection.
• Teaches that courage grows through experience.

[00:12:00] Choosing Authenticity Over Perfection

• Coaches entrepreneurs to build trust by showing up as themselves.
• Shares how one student overcame her fear of being visible online.
• That decision eventually led to a multi-year luxury design project.
• Says authenticity consistently creates deeper connections than polished marketing.

[00:19:00] The Truth That Drew People In

• Shifted from sharing only beautiful interiors to sharing her real life.
• Began talking openly about divorce, menopause, family relationships, and personal struggles.
• Watched genuine conversations replace surface-level engagement.
• Created a community where people felt safe to be honest with one another.

[00:25:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything

• Credits her therapist, Heather, with helping her confront the stories she believed about herself.
• Entered therapy expecting simple conversations but was challenged by firm boundaries and uncomfortable honesty.
• Realized she had spent years hiding behind humor, appearance, and achievement.
• Began replacing self-criticism with truth, vulnerability, and self-compassion.

[00:30:00] Learning to Tell the Truth

• Practiced recognizing when humor was masking something deeper.
• Started speaking more honestly with herself and the people closest to her.
• Discovered that authenticity strengthened some relationships while changing others.
• Says telling the truth became the foundation for the life she wanted to build.

[00:33:00] Creating a Community Built on Vulnerability

• Built a design school where students formed lasting friendships and business partnerships.
• Fostered an environment where conversations extended beyond design into fear, purpose, and personal growth.
• Credits Heather's influence for helping her create a culture rooted in honesty and trust.
• Believes vulnerability gave others permission to become themselves.

[00:35:30] The Ripple Effect of Courage

• Shares the story of a student whose husband initially questioned her decision to attend the school.
• That same student went on to build a thriving business and transform her marriage.
• Encourages people to protect their confidence while they're building something new.
• Believes one person's courage can impact countless other lives.

[00:38:00] Final Thoughts

• Invites aspiring interior designers to explore the Psychologie of Home Design School.
• Also works one-on-one with entrepreneurs and young adults searching for direction.
• Believes entrepreneurship is a lifestyle centered on freedom, creativity, and contribution.
• Leaves listeners with a simple reminder: the world only gets one version of you.

KEY QUOTES "You've got to surround yourself with good people. People that have your back and don't wanna bring toxicity and negativity to you." - Kami Gray

"I use humor to deflect hard things, and that I have never been vulnerable. I'm just hiding behind a veil of pretty hair and pretty clothes and humor to be my armor." - Kami Gray

CONNECT WITH KAMI GRAY Website: https://www.psychologieofhome.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamigray

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychologieofhome

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What if the leadership style you were taught is the very thing destroying your team?

In this episode, Dr. Fred Johnson, founder of InitiativeOne and one of the NFL's most trusted behind-the-scenes culture architects, shares a career built not on credentials but on authenticity. He has transformed locker rooms for six NFL teams including the Seahawks and Packers, coached a world-renowned cancer researcher back from the brink, and helped over 800 organizations find the best version of themselves.

But the most powerful thing Dr. Fred has ever done is admit he was a recovering addict. And the man who taught him that vulnerability is a superpower, not a weakness, was John Maxwell, 45 years ago.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder of InitiativeOne, a global leadership company in Green Bay, Wisconsin * Works across 29 professional fields in seven countries * Helps leaders transform to the best version of themselves

[00:05:30] How the NFL Relationships Started * John Schneider credits Fred with saving his career when he wanted to leave the profession * Fred coached him back from deep discouragement without charging a dollar * When Schneider became GM of the Seahawks, he asked Fred to build the culture there too * Every NFL team Fred has worked with came through that one relationship

[00:08:00] What Inspires Him * Loves helping people find hope, clear direction, and purpose * Believes you are only as strong as the quality of people around you * Every large multi-year engagement in 27 years came from an unsolicited referral

[00:13:30] The Mentor Who Started It All: Dr. Rosetta Riley * Was a pastor in his early 30s when Dr. Rosetta Riley joined his congregation * She was the leading female influencer in manufacturing worldwide * She saw something in him he couldn't see in himself and mentored him for four and a half years * His first clients were McDonnell Douglas, Boeing, McDonald's, and Chase Manhattan Bank

[00:17:30] Client Impact: The Cancer Researcher Who Almost Took Everything Down * Was called in to coach a world-renowned pancreatic cancer researcher whose ego was destroying the organization * The researcher had already fired seven coaches; Fred told him he would never be number eight * Six months from shutting down, the organization turned around completely * Today that institute leads on at least a dozen major cancer therapies

[00:26:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: John Maxwell * Maxwell is widely regarded as the most influential voice in leadership today * Taught Fred that leadership has nothing to do with authority and everything to do with people * Taught him you cannot coach people hard if you do not love them hard first * Introduced Fred to authentic, vulnerable leadership 45 years before it became a buzzword

[00:29:00] The Leader with a Limp * In his early 30s Fred was a recovering addict living a double life while teaching leadership * When it came out, Maxwell told him: from now on you are a leader with a limp * Fred resisted at first; today he says the limp is the best part of him * People do not want perfect leaders; they want authentic ones

[00:31:30] Being-Based vs Performance-Based Leadership * The average American leader has a self-belief level of 2.7 out of 10 * Performance-based leaders push people to perform so they can feel good about themselves * Being-based leaders attract talent, build momentum, and stop starting over every three years * Fred turned over his entire staff every three years until being-based leadership broke that cycle

[00:36:30] The Second Relationship: Mr. Gault * Mr. Gault was Fred's ninth grade Sunday school teacher * Fred was 5'1", 98 pounds, covered in acne, and thought nothing of himself * Every week Mr. Gault told him: Freddy, I believe in you and great things are in store * Fifty-five years later those words still play in his mind on the hardest days

KEY QUOTES "You can't coach people hard if you don't love them hard first." - Dr. Fred Johnson, quoting John Maxwell

"The best part of me is the limp. From that, wisdom and growth accelerated and came out." - Dr. Fred Johnson

"No one succeeds by themselves. You are only as strong as the quality of the relationships you build and the people you surround yourself with." - Dr. Fred Johnson

CONNECT WITH DR. FRED JOHNSON Website: https://www.initiative-one.com

Personal: https://www.drfredjohnson.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfredjohnson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fred.johnson.77736310

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What if the loneliness you feel isn't a personal problem but a public health emergency nobody is talking about loudly enough?

In this episode, Dr. Julie Radlauer, founder of Collectively, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author of CONNECT: 100 Ways to Create Happiness in Your Life, shares how 25 years working at the intersection of behavioral health and public health led her to one unavoidable conclusion: mental health is deeply shaped by social health.

What changed everything wasn't a textbook or a theory. It was 50 families from across the country who looked Julie in the eye and said: we're sick of talking about the problem. Fix it. Those conversations didn't just change her research. They changed her entire mission.

[00:04:00] What She Does and Who She Serves * Founder and CEO of Collectively, focused on improving the mental health narrative * Works with nonprofits, governments, and academia at every level * Facilitates a leadership academy for emerging nonprofit leaders

[00:05:30] How She Got Here * Started as a licensed mental health counselor working with low-income children and families * Climbed into administration as director of children's services at a large community mental health center * Started a consulting business for flexibility; ended up working even more hours as an entrepreneur

[00:07:00] What Inspires Her: Prevention Over Intervention * Sees a global mental health crisis and a loneliness epidemic playing out at the same time * Focuses on the social aspects of life that people can actually control * Wants to give leaders practical tools to prevent mental health struggles before they start

[00:08:00] Client Impact: Giving Communities a Framework to Change * Conducts comprehensive assessments of organizations, communities, and systems * Uses data, surveys, and conversations to identify what is not working * Delivers strategic reports showing exactly what needs to change and how

[00:10:00] The Research That Changed Everything: 50 Families * Got frustrated watching families stabilize and then cycle back into crisis months later * Earned a doctorate in public health to understand prevention at the population level * Conducted a national study interviewing 50 families of children in public behavioral health systems * Families said: we don't want clinical support; we want family, faith, friends, and community

[00:12:30] What the Families Taught Her * Families challenged her directly: what are you going to do with this information? * A group of parents collaborated to co-create curriculum based on what they said was needed * Some of those parents now travel the country training behavioral health professionals * The families didn't just change her research; they became her mission

[00:16:00] The Vision Going Forward * Her main client groups are nonprofits, governments, and academia; all are under serious pressure * The professionals she works with are exhausted and navigating constant change * Focuses on giving leaders tools to support themselves, their teams, and the people they serve

[00:17:30] Resources and Final Word * Visit collectivelyus.org to learn about the organization and its work * Specializes in translating research into practical, accessible tools anyone can use * One in three people is currently struggling with mental health; the need has never been greater

KEY QUOTES "What we need is support with our family, our faith, our friends, our community. We need to figure out how to help communities support each other." - The families, as shared by Dr. Julie Radlauer

"The people I interviewed in that study changed my life. They were in the most challenging situations, and they said: fix the problem." - Dr. Julie Radlauer

"I focus on the social influences of mental health: the social aspects of your life that we actually have some ability to control." - Dr. Julie Radlauer

CONNECT WITH DR. JULIE RADLAUER Organization: https://www.collectivelyus.org

Personal: https://www.julieradlauer.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/CONNECT-Ways-Create-Happiness-Your/dp/B0CGM51W8Q

TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v9nJlVvKFs

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-radlauer-doerfler-drph-lmhc

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What if the person who pulled you out of the wrong room turned out to be the right partner for the next 25 years?

In this episode, Jason Henneberry, founder of Dependency Design and senior partner in a national Canadian mortgage brokerage with over 600 professionals, shares the story of a career that has spanned market peaks, a near-bankruptcy in 2008, a dramatic rebuild, and a bold acquisition spree that captured 2% of the Canadian mortgage market in 12 months.

At the center of it all is a man who walked into a bank branch, pulled a young Jason out of the corporate world, and said: come do mortgages with me. That was 2003. They still work together today.

[00:03:30] What He Does and Who He Serves * Senior partner in a national Canadian mortgage brokerage with over 600 agents * Runs a coaching platform and SaaS tools for the mortgage industry * Tests ideas externally before bringing them in-house; it proves demand and pays for development

[00:07:00] What Inspires Him: The Creative Process * Loves coming up with new ideas and testing them in the market * Protects the core business while running two or three experiments at a time * Goes deep on whatever works and drops the rest

[00:11:30] Client Impact: Helping Mortgage Brokers See the Full Picture * Coaches mortgage professionals on advanced financial strategies most brokers never explore * Helps brokers connect mortgages to tax, wealth, and estate planning * Watches clients implement and grow without being involved in the transactions

[00:13:30] The Relationship That Changed Everything: His First Mentor * Was working in a bank branch when a gentleman pulled him out and said: come do mortgages with me * That was 2003; they have worked together every year since * The mentor now sits as chairman of the board of the company they built together * Nearly 25 years later that one moment still underpins everything Jason has built

[00:15:00] The 2008 Collapse: Everything Came Apart * Ran 300 homeowner seminars and put 20,000 people through the program in 2006 and 2007 * Wrote a 12-month marketing check in August 2008; the market collapsed on September 14th * Had to sell everything including a house with an ocean view * Reset from zero with three young kids and no runway

[00:18:00] The Capital Markets Mentor Who Rebuilt Everything * Around 2016 met someone deeply experienced in raising capital * That relationship led to the formation of Tango and a major capital raise * Used the capital to acquire brokerages across the country * Captured roughly 2% of the Canadian mortgage market in 12 months

[00:20:00] The Leadership Lesson from All Three Mentors * All three mentors had different skill sets but shared one principle * Point good people in the right direction and get out of their way * People with the right skills and direction will always exceed what you could do alone

[00:21:30] Dependency Design: The Book and the Mission * Wrote a free 15-minute PDF called Dependency Design, available at dependencydesign.com * Explores why founders build businesses that feel like freedom but end up like traps * Helps leaders see where responsibility has quietly settled and how to rise above it

KEY QUOTES "When you let good people apply their skills with a little bit of direction, they can do things that far exceed anything you could possibly imagine doing for yourself." - Jason Henneberry

"No one wakes up and says I want to be a mortgage broker. My first choice didn't work out, so I did this instead." - Jason Henneberry

CONNECT WITH JASON HENNEBERRY Website: https://dependencydesign.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhenneberry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/henneberryjason

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What if the question nobody in the room could answer became the business you spent a decade building?

In this episode, Tyler Ryan, founder of LTV Numbers and former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory engineer, shares how a physics degree, a baseball bleacher conversation, and a single moment at a business event in 2018 led him to build a software company that helps online entrepreneurs finally see what has been invisible in their own data for years.

Tyler didn't set out to build an analytics company. He set out to start something, anything, that would let him use his engineering brain in a business context. What he found was that the people around him needed him more than they knew. And one relationship in particular taught him the single most important lesson he has ever learned about business partnerships.

[00:03:30] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder of LTV Numbers, a software platform for online course creators, coaches, and digital businesses * Helps businesses understand customer lifetime value at day 0, 30, 60, 90, and beyond * Serves e-commerce, info product, and online businesses that sell to customers more than once

[00:07:00] How He Got Here * Dad was a career musician; that entrepreneurial mindset shaped Tyler from an early age * Majored in physics at UCLA; got his master's in mechanical engineering * Landed an internship at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory through a bleacher conversation at a high school baseball game * Fell in love with coding through that internship and knew he would use it to build something

[00:09:00] The Startup Apartment and the Fork in the Road * Left NASA with a college friend to build a company in a Burbank apartment * Spent two years going all in with zero revenue; nearly exhausted all savings * His co-founder went back to Google; Tyler refused to quit * Emptied retirement and investment accounts to join masterminds and get into the right rooms

[00:12:00] The Moment That Built a Business * Was the only tech person in a room full of fitness coaches and online business owners * Started helping people with websites and automations for free without thinking anything of it * With less than 30 days of money left, announced he was offering tech consulting to the group * Made $3,000 in seven days; that was the proof of concept that changed everything

[00:14:30] The Event That Crystallized Everything: Joel Marion * Attended Craig Valentine's Perfect Life Retreat in 2018 and watched a talk by Joel Marion of BioTrust * Marion asked 400 entrepreneurs how many knew their LTV at day 0, 30, 60, 90, and 180 by product, funnel, and traffic source * Four hands went up; their businesses were doing $15M, $25M, $35M, and $50M * Marion said: the reason we scaled BioTrust from zero to nine figures in 18 months was because we knew that answer better than anyone

[00:17:30] What Inspires Him: Lifting the Fog * Was an engineer who knew nothing about business; that insecurity held him back for years * Sees brilliant business people constrained not by their ability but by their visibility * Loves the moment a business owner finally sees what has been invisible for years * Mission: make data-driven decision-making the default for every online business

[00:20:00] Client Impact: Joe DiGalbo and Live Anabolic * Joe was one of his earliest LTV Numbers clients; they met in the original mastermind * Joe's fitness business had been stuck at $5 million a year for three years * After deep work on LTV visibility and scaling decisions, the company hit $13 million last year * Has been on a weekly call with Joe for years; Joe is one of his favorite people in the world

[00:23:30] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Steven Cornford * Steven was the father of a high school baseball teammate; Tyler ran into him in the bleachers a year after graduation * One conversation about physics led to an internship at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory that summer * That internship introduced him to programming and set the entire trajectory of his career * The lesson: say yes early to opportunities you can't fully see; the path reveals itself later

[00:25:00] The Relationship That Healed Everything: Joe DiGalbo * Got into several business partnerships from a place of desperation and insecurity * Partners looked great on paper but produced negative results; the company went backwards * Joe was different; not because of his skill set but because of who he is as a person * That relationship taught him to over-index on character and values, not skills

[00:28:00] The Compound Effect of One Great Relationship * Joe introduced him to Robbie, a mentor and advisor who became a close friend * Has been on a weekly three-way call with Joe and Robbie for years * Robbie's company is finishing an acquisition; a new chapter together may be forming * One great person leads to more great people; pour into the relationship without needing to see where it goes

[00:37:30] Final Word: Seven Minutes of Terror and Knowing Your Numbers * Was in the JPL auditorium when the Curiosity Mars rover landed in the early 2010s * Due to signal delay, the auditorium was only finding out what had already happened as they listened * When mission control said "touchdown confirmed" the entire auditorium burst into tears * The rover landed within a mile of its target after flying through space entirely on its own; that is what knowing your numbers makes possible

KEY QUOTES "Your skill set determines your potential. But if your visibility is terrible, you are going to operate well below that potential." - Tyler Ryan

"I could partner up with a person I loved with very little marketing skills, who would run through a wall for me, and they probably would have produced a better outcome." - Tyler Ryan

"Once you find that one person where you're like, I don't know how, but I would want to work with this person on anything, just keep pouring into it. It might be three years later, but it changes your life." - Tyler Ryan

CONNECT WITH TYLER RYAN Website: https://www.ltvnumbers.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerjryan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetylerjryan

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What if the wrong turn that changed your life wasn't even yours to take?

In this episode, Justin Gray, serial entrepreneur and Managing Partner at In Revenue Capital, shares how five exits worth more than $500 million in enterprise value all trace back to one unexpected introduction at a Phoenix bar. His girlfriend at the time ran into a founder, turned down a job offer, and said: talk to my boyfriend instead.

That detour led Justin to employee number six at a fintech startup, his first liquidity event, and everything that followed. Today he invests in early stage B2B vertical SaaS companies, not just with capital but with his team's hands deep in the work alongside founders every single day.

[00:03:30] What He Does and Who He Serves * Serial entrepreneur with five successful exits worth over $500 million in enterprise value * Managing partner at In Revenue Capital, an early stage B2B vertical SaaS venture fund * Invests at seed and Series A with a hands-on operator-immersive model * Two portfolio companies have already exited since the firm launched in 2023

[00:05:00] How He Got Here * Wanted to be a writer in college; pivoted to business and marketing when the money wasn't there * Left school four credits shy of a degree; graduated into the post-September 11th job market * Took a string of marketing jobs he hated; became a self-taught Swiss Army knife of go-to-market * Frustrated by the siloed, arts-and-crafts lane that marketing was stuck in

[00:08:00] The Startup That Changed Everything * Joined a five-person payments startup in 2006 as employee number six * Took three to four months to evaluate the decision; it turned out to be the best of his life * Grew the company from roughly $1 million to $294 million in annual revenue * Cashed out his equity and went on to found four more bootstrapped companies

[00:13:30] What Inspires Him: Upleveling People * Running a services firm taught him that people are the most important asset in any business * Created a phantom equity program at LeadMD; half the enterprise value went to employees at exit * Over a third of those employees have since gone on to start their own companies * The freedom to build something is what most people need; liquidity is the key that unlocks it

[00:17:30] How In Revenue Capital Actually Works * Does not maintain a traditional venture fund; operates under a fundless sponsor SPV model * Flies into new portfolio companies for a day and a half workshop after closing * Builds a three-pillar assessment framework using market data, portfolio benchmarks, and AI * One firm partner is currently serving as CRO for a portfolio company full time

[00:23:30] What the Engagement Looks Like Day to Day * Founders have the team on Slack, email, and phone; communication is always on * Helps with hiring, messaging, pricing, customer success, CRM rollouts, and deal cycles * If there is one thing that creates outsized value, it is helping founders hire the right people * Knowing what great looks like at each stage is context most first-time founders don't have

[00:28:30] The Relationship That Changed Everything: The Founder at the Bar * His girlfriend ran into a founder at the Coach House bar in Phoenix; a disagreement led to an apology * The founder offered her a job; she declined and said: my boyfriend hates his job, talk to him * That introduction led to the payments startup, the first liquidity event, and everything after * Without that random bar encounter, Justin says he would still be sitting in a cubicle

[00:33:30] The Painful Lesson That Came With It * The same founder later invested in two of Justin's subsequent companies out of shared camaraderie * Their definitions of success were completely different; misalignment became costly and painful * Justin had to buy the founder's half back at multiple seven figures he didn't have earmarked for that * The lesson: alignment on goals, exit paths, and vision must come before any partnership

[00:38:30] Final Word: Unscalable Things Drive Success * Hosts the Cheat Code and Friends podcast with relationships-driven conversations * Published The GTM Cheat Code in February 2025; a national bestseller about doing unscalable things * All of In Revenue Capital's deal flow comes through venture partners who trust the team * The model: provide value to partners first and the doors open on their own

KEY QUOTES "The sixth ingredient that builds a great tech ecosystem, more important than all the others, is context. You have to know what great looks like." - Justin Gray

"Everyone thinks they need to only do things that scale. But if you create a culture of hyper value, reward first and revenue second, the relationships open every door." - Justin Gray

CONNECT WITH JUSTIN GRAY Website: https://www.inrevenue.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inrevenue

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What if the most powerful leadership skill in the world could be taught in a maximum security prison?

In this episode, Doug Noll, lawyer turned peacemaker, mediator, and author of the upcoming Empathy Leadership, shares how walking away from a $10 million law career led him to one of the most profound discoveries in human communication. For 10 years he trained over 3,000 incarcerated men and women in maximum security prisons to prevent gang riots using a skill that can be learned in minutes and practiced in seconds.

That skill is two words: You feel.

The story that changed everything wasn't in a boardroom. It was a woman on a hospital bed in the world's largest women's prison, writing letters to a son who hadn't spoken to her in 18 years. What happened next is something Doug will never forget.

[00:05:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Lawyer turned peacemaker with a master's degree in conflict studies * Left the practice of law in 2000 after 22 years as a trial lawyer * Teaches nervous system leadership to executives, founders, and C-level leaders

[00:06:00] The Three Questions Every Brain Asks * Every brain in every meeting asks three questions every microsecond * Am I safe? Can I trust you? Do I matter to you? * If leaders don't get solid yeses, they've already lost the room * A leader's first job is to regulate their own nervous system

[00:07:30] How a Lawyer Became a Peacemaker * Took up martial arts in his mid-30s and earned a second-degree black belt * His teacher sent him to learn Tai Chi; it taught him soft is strong and vulnerable is powerful * In a courtroom in the late 90s the thought hit him: what am I doing in here?

[00:09:00] The River Trip That Changed Everything * Spent 10 days alone on a raft on the Salmon River in Idaho thinking * Could only count five people in 22 years of law who came out better than they went in * Heard a radio announcement for a peacemaking master's degree and enrolled at 48 * Gave one week's notice, left $10 million on the table, and walked away

[00:11:00] What Inspires Him * Wants to teach as many people as possible to stop fights before they spiral * The skill: say "you feel" and name what the other person is experiencing * When you name someone's emotions, their amygdala calms and they can think again

[00:13:30] Client Impact * Trained senior analysts at the Congressional Budget Office to de-escalate members of Congress * Mediated a three-day dispute at a billion-dollar company where stakeholders could barely be in the same room * Hardened business people regularly break into tears from the release of tension they've been carrying

[00:15:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Laurel Klaffer and Sarah * In 2009 a woman serving life without parole wrote letters from a hospital bed * One letter landed with Doug's colleague Laurel Klaffer; she called Doug and read it to him * Eight months later they were standing in front of 15 women in California's largest women's prison

[00:16:30] Sarah's Letter: The Moment That Defined the Mission * Sarah had been in prison 18 years for a fatal DUI that killed a family of four * She gave up her three-year-old son when she entered prison; he never visited or wrote back * Using what she learned, she wrote naming how he must feel * For the first time in 18 years he wrote back: Mom, I love you; I'm bringing my girlfriend to visit

[00:18:00] Prison of Peace: A Program That Went Global * Sarah's story confirmed the work was about restoring humanity, not just peacemaking * The program expanded to Corcoran State Prison, one of California's two supermaxes * Prison of Peace is now operating in prisons across the world

[00:22:00] Mike's Story: A Father Reconnected from Behind Bars * Mike, a gang member at Corcoran, had a daughter who ran from him during visits * He started naming her emotions on their weekly calls; within weeks she was a changed girl * She began requesting her own weekly call just to be listened to * On the next visit she ran and jumped into his arms; the guards looked the other way

[00:27:30] Final Word: Two Words That Change Everything * Conflict is inevitable; the painful emotions around it are not * Every fight is a cry: please listen to me * Say "you feel" and the argument dissolves; the problem can finally be solved

KEY QUOTES "Every fight, every argument is nothing more than a cry: please listen to me." - Doug Noll

"When you name what someone feels, you choose humanity over ideology. You choose connection over being right." - Doug Noll

"If the most violent men I've ever worked with could learn how to listen people into existence, imagine what it could do for everybody listening to this show." - Doug Noll

CONNECT WITH DOUG NOLL Website: https://www.dougnoll.com

Substack: https://www.dougnoll.substack.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougnoll

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What if the most important business introduction of your life happened in a middle seat at 30,000 feet?

In this episode, Carrie Waible, founder of CW and Co., shares a career that reads like a map of New York City's most iconic moments. Star-studded galas, Nobu's 20th anniversary, Donna Summer and John Legend at the Beacon Theater, Robert De Niro's charity events, and a 20-year client relationship that started with a phone call she almost said no to.

None of it would have happened without a stranger on a plane named Stan Heath, a first boss named Tony who saw something in her before she did, and a client named Thomas who told a 26-year-old she should start her own company. She did. Twenty years later she is still at it and still evolving.

[00:04:00] What She Does and Who She Serves * Runs CW and Co., a full service marketing and production company * Started in 2004 producing nonprofit galas and celebrity events in New York * Has worked with some clients for 10 to 20 years

[00:05:00] From Events to Full Service Marketing * Was churning out 12 major events a year with a team burning out * A dear team member said she didn't want this to be her life * Started shifting toward full service marketing and content production

[00:07:30] The Client Who Gave Her the Best Advice * An old client named Charlie took her to lunch when she first started out * He told her: keep putting yourself in front of people and do a good job * He also said at 26: lean into your PR talents; that's what will carry you * She didn't fully hear it until years later when the pivot became necessary

[00:10:30] What Inspires Her: People * Gets her energy entirely from people; not one cup of coffee a day * Feels most present when directing videos, producing events, or in the field * If she is connecting with people and doing meaningful work, she feels amazing

[00:11:30] Client Impact: Nobu and a Charter School Network * Helped Nobu transition from a 190-seat Tribeca restaurant to a global brand without losing its heart * Helped nonprofits raise what adds up to billions of dollars over the years * Spoke at a charter school career day; a student asked what inspires her; she said: you do

[00:19:00] The Relationship That Started Everything: Stan Heath * Was flying to New York to visit friends after graduating college * Got into conversation with a stranger named Stan Heath in the middle seat * He said PR was her fit; his ex-business partner Tony was hiring * Stan faxed her resume; she had a meeting that same weekend

[00:21:30] Tony: The First Boss Who Changed Her Life * Tony offered her the job after watching her work a fashion industry event * He needed to see how she moved before making the offer * New York clicked immediately; she has never left * That first job eventually led her back to PR and to starting her own company

[00:23:00] Thomas: The Client Who Told Her to Start Her Own Business * A former client told her: anywhere you go, people will just ask for Carrie Waible anyway * Within weeks he offered her a live event six weeks from his nonprofit's biggest fundraiser * She started the company at 26 to take on that first event * That night on the event floor confirmed she had found where she belonged

[00:25:30] Cathy: The Referral That Led to Robert De Niro * A past client named Cathy called to pass on a piece of business she couldn't take * She was stern: my reputation is on the line too; I need to know you're ready * The event was a star-studded benefit at the Beacon Theater with Donna Summer and John Legend * The after party was at Nobu; that relationship kept growing for five to six years

[00:28:30] Raven: The 20-Year Client Relationship * Her first VP at her first New York job called when Carrie started her agency * Asked her to do PR for the New York Boat Show; Carrie almost said no * That one job opened the door to recreational boating, now one of her biggest business streams * The National Marine Manufacturers Association has been a client for 20 years

[00:31:30] Venice 2021: The Trip That Cracked Everything Open * Was invited to manage VIPs and heads of state at a humanitarian event in Venice * Went alone with only a local assistant; no team, no safety net * Realized she didn't need a multimillion-dollar agency; she needed to love the work every day * From that moment she began more fully embodying her gifts and what she really wanted

[00:34:30] Final Word: Just Connect * People find relationship building daunting; just extend a smile, a word, a handshake * Trust your gut about who feels right; the spidey sense gets sharper over time * Those small connections build into things you could never have imagined

KEY QUOTES "Keep putting yourself in front of people and do a good job, because no one ever wants to change who they're working with if they don't have to." - Charlie, as shared by Carrie Waible

"I get my energy from people. Not one cup of coffee." - Carrie Waible

"You have nothing to lose. Those things build and build into something that you just could never imagine." - Carrie Waible

CONNECT WITH CARRIE WAIBLE Website: https://www.cwandco.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-waible-658b972

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What if you never made a cold call, never sent a cold email, and still built a global agency with 140 clients across four continents?

In this episode, Joel Strauss, founder of Strauss Communications, shares how being fired at the start of Covid with zero clients led to building a boutique PR agency that has now worked with over 140 companies across four continents. Almost every single one came through a relationship.

Joel's story has three chapters: starting the business, scaling it, and saving it. Each one hinged on a personal relationship at exactly the right moment. Including the meeting in Madrid that pulled his agency back from the brink after October 7th changed everything overnight.

[00:03:30] What He Does and Who He Serves * Runs Strauss Communications, a boutique PR agency for tech startups * Services cover organic media coverage, content, and social media * 95% of clients are tech companies; most are referred through relationships

[00:04:30] How He Got Into PR * Idealized politics; left after nearly two years deeply unhappy * Quit, traveled South America, then went on a boys' trip to Montreal * Met his brother's former roommate who connected him to a PR firm in Tel Aviv * He packed up everything in New York and moved within two weeks

[00:06:00] The Introduction That Started Everything * His brother's former roommate saw a fit between his background and the agency * The firm had political and tech clients; Joel had just enough experience to be relevant * That one connection opened the door to a new industry and a new country * Every step of his career since traces back to that trip to Montreal

[00:07:00] What Inspires Him * Gets a bird's eye view of tech across fintechs, AI, semiconductors, and more * Works directly with founders, CMOs, and CEOs of innovative companies * Has helped companies go from unknown to dominant positions in their markets

[00:08:30] Client Impact * A niche plywood replacement client started getting people knocking on their door from PR alone * Several clients successfully raised investment rounds after investors cited media coverage * All contracts are month to month; some clients have stayed for over three years * Retaining clients through results rather than contracts is the proof of delivery

[00:11:30] Starting the Business: The Boss Who Fired Him * Was called into a hearing to be fired at the start of Covid * Kept his cool and told his boss he understood and didn't take it personally * That same boss became a mentor and referred several of his first clients * Joel's wife co-founded the business with him; their relationship has been foundational

[00:13:00] Scaling the Business: A Former Colleague * A former colleague he stayed close with over the years eventually joined his team * That person brought in key client relationships that led to major results * The companies he helped raise in the US all came through this one relationship * Maintaining cordial connections over time is what made it possible

[00:13:30] Saving the Business: The Madrid Meeting * After October 7th, Israeli tech clients sent staff into reserve duty overnight * Lost half the client base almost overnight * A founder from South America emailed out of nowhere; they met in Madrid by chance * That relationship became a client and turned the company around

[00:17:00] Vision Going Forward * Wants to scale without sacrificing service quality * Growing through relationships rather than cold outreach remains the core model * Using AI to handle busy work so the team has more time with clients * Boutique, high-quality, and relationship-driven is the identity they will not trade away

[00:19:30] What Makes Them Different * Most agencies charge $15,000 to $25,000 a month and put junior staff on accounts * At Strauss Communications, senior people handle everything * Contracts are month to month; they have to earn it every single time * That pressure is what keeps the work sharp and the results consistent

[00:20:00] Why He Started His Own Agency * Was hired in-house at a tech company and told to bring in expensive PR firms * It was him landing TechCrunch and Reuters; the firms were getting paid for his work * Saw the gap and built an agency that actually delivered at the senior level

[00:23:30] Thinking Broader Than Coverage * Most agencies just pitch placements; Strauss Communications thinks strategically * Also offers white papers and content with both PR and marketing value * Measurable deliverables make it easier for marketing teams to justify the spend * A webinar built from one piece of content recently generated 150 sign-ups

[00:25:00] Final Word: Relationships Are a Cultural Advantage * Noticed that relationship building is more open in Israel and Spain than in the US * In the US, getting to the CEO requires going through several gatekeepers first * Being of service and being known for it builds a reputation that compounds over time

KEY QUOTES "Every step of my story is intimately intertwined with personal relationships." - Joel Strauss

"A lot of good and innovation can happen when people are more open to giving of themselves and giving their time." - Joel Strauss

CONNECT WITH JOEL STRAUSS Website: https://www.strausscomms.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelstrauss1

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What if the most valuable business lessons you ever learned came not from a classroom, but from a farm?

In this episode, Robbie Shoults, third-generation owner of Bear Creek Smokehouse, shares the story of an 83-year family legacy built on smoked meats, hard work, and two simple rules passed down from his grandfather and father: show people how to do it, don't just tell them, and it doesn't cost any more to make it taste good.

What started in 1943 with 600 day-old turkey poults and a little smokehouse in East Texas is now a nationally recognized brand sold at Walmart, Publix, and Kroger, with over 50 premium products shipping across the country. And the fourth generation is already on the floor.

[00:04:00] How It All Started * Grew up on the farm; farming and ranching have been in the family for generations * His great-grandfather told his grandfather: I'll give you that land if you'll go work it * His grandfather rode a horse 15 miles every day to work the land

[00:05:30] The Family History * His grandfather cleared timber with crosscut saws and mules * Started planting cotton and corn, raised hogs and cattle, and sold vegetables to grocery stores * Coming out of the Depression and World War II, things were hard; feeding the family was a daily struggle

[00:07:00] The Turkey Decision That Changed Everything * A great uncle told his grandfather: you can put more pounds of gain on a turkey per pound of feed * In 1943 they brought in 600 day-old turkey poults with no prior experience * Ladies from town would come out with roasting pans and pick the bird that would fit

[00:09:00] From Turkeys to a National Brand * Worked with Texas A&M to develop curing and smoking recipes; the business took off * Expanded from turkeys into hogs, sausage, bacon, and a full product line * Now supplies salt pork to over 2,000 Walmarts and Publix stores on the East Coast

[00:10:00] The Bear Creek General Store * Built a 17,000 square foot general store in 2018; calls it the finest tourist trap in Texas * Offers hand-dipped ice cream, homemade fudge, a pit room, and Texas Longhorns out front * Visitors come from across the globe to experience a true slice of East Texas life

[00:13:00] What Inspires Him: Keeping the Legacy Alive * His job is to keep building on what granddad and dad started * His son Hunter is the fourth generation running daily operations at the plant * His role is telling the story; Hunter's role is running production

[00:16:00] The Relationships That Changed Everything: Dad and Granddad * Neither had a college education; what they taught on the farm can't be taught in a classroom * Passion, endurance, and perseverance are what make a business thrive year after year * He would not be where he is without the foundation they laid

[00:18:00] What His Grandfather Taught Him About Leadership * His grandfather worked alongside his team in the field every single day * He was never a supervisor; he was a leader who showed people how to do it * Robbie has done every single job on the property; that shapes how he leads today

[00:19:30] What His Father Taught Him About Quality * His dad said: it doesn't cost any more to make it taste good * His dad said: everything you produce comes down to one single bite * Those two rules apply to product quality, customer service, and how you treat people

[00:21:00] Final Word: Treat People Right * Treat people the way you want to be treated; that principle runs through everything * Products are available online at bearcreeksmokehouse.com and ship directly to your door * The Bear Creek Bottom Bliss cookbook includes five generations of family recipes, Bible verses, and Texas tall tales

KEY QUOTES "It doesn't cost more to make it taste good." - Robbie Shoults, quoting his father

"Everything that you produce out of this processing plant is gonna be reduced down to one single bite." - Robbie Shoults, quoting his father

"The things that they taught us out here on the farm can't be taught in a university, in a classroom." - Robbie Shoults

CONNECT WITH ROBBIE SHOULTS Website: https://www.bearcreeksmokehouse.com

Facebook: @BearCreekSmokehouse

Instagram: @bearcreeksmokehouse

YouTube: @BearCreekSmokehouse

TikTok: @bearcreeksmokehouse

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What if the person who saw your gift before you did was the same one who dared you to use it?

In this episode, Jamie Dykstra, nonfiction book ghostwriter and former corporate finance professional, shares how a career 180 brought her from spreadsheets to storytelling. She didn't plan to become a ghostwriter. She planned to take a few months off after leaving corporate and go back. She never went back.

What changed everything was a mentor who saw a writer in a finance executive, refused to accept her excuses, and told her to just start a blog. That blog became a copywriting business, and that copywriting business became the ghostwriting practice she runs today, helping purpose-driven leaders scale their impact through books.

[00:04:20] What She Does and Who She Serves * Nonfiction book ghostwriter focused on business and leadership * Serves executives, entrepreneurs, and purpose-driven leaders * Helps clients tell their story in their voice without writing a word themselves

[00:05:20] How Ghostwriting Actually Works * Process starts with outlining, goal setting, and deep-dive interviews * Interviews become the raw material for the manuscript * Client reviews, gives feedback, and ends up with a publishable book

[00:07:00] Why Leaders Need a Ghostwriter * A book is not a small thing; most leaders don't have the time or bandwidth * Leaders often share their message informally but never capture it in a lasting format * Many resist writing a book because they don't want it to feel like an ego move * A book isn't about building you up; it's a channel to serve a mission bigger than yourself

[00:08:20] What Inspires Her * Loves the scalability of books; one reader can change another person's life * Doesn't need recognition; she knows what she signed up for * If one person's life changes because of a book she worked on, that is enough

[00:11:00] Client Impact: Bob Whalen and Employee Ownership * Ghostwrote Beyond Your Ownership for Bob Whalen, an advocate for employee ownership * The book became a tool people use to introduce the concept to clients and teams * Books create awareness for things people don't know exist that create good in the world

[00:15:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything * Degrees in accounting and finance; started as a model developer in corporate finance * A senior VP noticed she was in the wrong role and offered her a new one * That leader became a mentor who helped her stand confidently in her own abilities * When Jamie left corporate and felt lost, the same person told her she was really good at writing

[00:17:20] From Blog to Business * The mentor refused her excuses and listed every reason she was good enough * Told her to just start a blog and see what happens * That blog became a copywriting business, which became her ghostwriting practice * She could have gone back to corporate; she chose to build something of her own

[00:19:40] Your God-Given Ability Is Not Difficult for You * Most people dismiss their natural gifts because they feel too easy * The thing that jazzes you most is usually the thing you are best at * Others can see our gifts before we can; a trusted voice can unlock everything * Don't assume something isn't worthwhile just because it comes naturally to you

[00:21:20] Paying It Forward Through Leadership * While still in corporate, managed a team using everything her mentor had taught her * Most proud of the impact she had on people through leadership during that season * Because of what she received, she was able to give it forward to others on their journeys

[00:23:20] Final Word: Don't Put Yourself in a Box * Went from accounting and finance to ghostwriting; most people take their gifts for granted * It is never too late to follow your God-given talents * Her whole business started with one small blog; it always starts with one step

KEY QUOTES "A book is a way that purpose-driven leaders are able to scale their impact. That's what fires me up. The ripple effects." - Jamie Dykstra

"Don't put yourself in a box. Don't ever assume it's too late to follow your God-given talents and make the impact you want to make." - Jamie Dykstra

CONNECT WITH JAMIE DYKSTRA 🌐 Website: https://www.jamiedykstra.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-dykstra

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What if one celebrity client could permanently change the trajectory of your entire career?

In this episode, Dr. Catrise Austin, celebrity dentist turned brand authority strategist, shares how a bold move at a New York restaurant in the 1990s launched a career that would land her in hip hop history. She introduced herself to Isaac Hayes over dinner, became his dentist, went to the Oscars and Grammys, got a publicist through a barter deal, and eventually transformed Cardi B's smile on national television. The Cardi B episode aired as a season premiere on Love and Hip Hop, the song Bodak Yellow went number one, and TMZ ran the story. Her business tripled overnight.

What she built over 30 years wasn't just a celebrity dental practice. It was a masterclass in how relationships compound when you protect them the way most people protect money.

[00:04:20] What She Does and Who She Serves * Brand authority strategist helping entrepreneurs become the go-to in their industries * Uses the FAME Formula to help clients climb the authority ladder * Works across dental, medical, corporate, and entrepreneurial spaces

[00:05:20] How She Got Here * Two years after dental school, moved to New York and started networking * Hit comedy clubs in the 90s and befriended a young Kevin Hart and Tracy Morgan * Comedians opened for music acts; she started meeting people in the music industry * Realized she could be the dentist to the stars and started passing out flyers at celebrity hotspots

[00:07:40] The Night That Started Everything: Isaac Hayes * Walked up to Isaac Hayes at P. Diddy's restaurant and gave him her elevator pitch * He had never seen a dentist like her; he invited her to sit down for dinner * She left with his phone number and his promise to become her first celebrity client * That one bold move launched her career as a celebrity dentist

[00:11:00] What Isaac Did Next * Sent his assistant to vet her office before committing * Once convinced, put her in his entourage and took her to the Oscars and Grammys * Introduced her to Denzel Washington's wife, who gave her a home phone number she was too scared to call * Encouraged her to get a publicist; her mom had a card for Eddie Murphy's publicist Terri Williams

[00:13:00] The Publicist Who Changed the Game: Renee Foster * Terri Williams loved the story but charged $50,000 a month; she referred her to Renee Foster * Renee didn't have a dentist; they bartered services * In exchange for cleanings, Renee got her on the Today Show and Good Morning America * That third-party visibility put her on the map in a way self-promotion never could

[00:15:40] What Inspires Her: The Power of a Smile * Had terrible teeth growing up; her mom sacrificed as a single parent to get her braces * Wearing braces for a year changed her confidence completely and made her want to become a dentist * Seeing a smile transformation and knowing firsthand how it feels is the greatest feeling in dentistry * The smile is your business card, your mood ring, and the first thing people notice about you

[00:19:20] The Relationship That Etched Her in History: Mona Scott-Young * Music executive Mona Scott-Young managed P. Diddy, LL Cool J, Missy Elliott, and 50 Cent * They bonded after receiving an award together; Mona sent her the biggest music acts of the era * Each high-profile referral added credibility and trust with the general public * Fast forward to 2016: Mona was producing Love and Hip Hop on VH1

[00:21:40] Cardi B and the Billboard Number One * Cardi B joined Love and Hip Hop with a big personality but teeth she was constantly mocked for * Because of her relationship with Mona, Dr. Austin got the call to do the smile makeover * The transformation aired as the season premiere and Cardi later referenced it in Bodak Yellow * The song hit number one on Billboard; TMZ ran the story and her business tripled overnight

[00:25:40] How She Protects Relationship Capital * People constantly ask her to introduce them to Cardi B; she never asks Cardi for anything * Her rule: only make introductions that further the relationship with both parties * She lost friends over refusing to make introductions; she has no regrets * Treat clients like family; that is the foundation of everything she has built

[00:31:20] Client Impact: Omarosa's Mother * Omarosa insisted her New York dentist fly to California to do her mother's smile makeover for a Discovery Channel show * Her mother's teeth needed significant work; Dr. Austin coordinated four additional dentists * Any Beverly Hills dentist could have done it; Omarosa's loyalty to their relationship made it happen * Giving someone's mother a confident smile was one of the greatest honors of her career

[00:35:00] Final Word: Bring Back the Personal Touch * Learned from Terri Williams's book The Personal Touch to go beyond digital communication * Pick up the phone, write a personal note, send a postcard when traveling * The small things nobody else is doing anymore are what make you stand out * Honor your clients; treat them like family and they will never leave

KEY QUOTES "You don't have to be the best at what you do to get the opportunities. Sometimes it's the best known that gets all the opportunities." - Dr. Catrise Austin

"I am so protective of the relationship I don't ask for anything. If I asked her for something, she would know this is a big deal, because I don't ask." - Dr. Catrise Austin

CONNECT WITH DR. CATRISE AUSTIN Website: https://www.celebritybrandingusa.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-catrise-austin

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celebritybrandingusa

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrCatriseAustin

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What if one person noticing something in you changed the entire trajectory of your life?

In this episode, Samyr Laine, Haitian-American Olympian, attorney, and managing partner of Freedom Trail Capital, shares how a high school track coach who noticed a kid with leaping ability in gym class set off a chain of events that led to the Olympic Games, a call from the president of Haiti, boardrooms with Jay-Z and the NFL, and a venture fund investing at the intersection of culture, lifestyle, and influence.

Samyr was user number 14 on Facebook, roommates with Mark Zuckerberg at Harvard, and has built one of the most unusual and compelling careers in venture capital. But none of it traces back to a famous name or a prestigious institution. It traces back to Coach Burks, who saw something and said something.

[00:06:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Managing partner of Freedom Trail Capital, a consumer-focused venture fund * Invests at the intersection of culture, lifestyle, and influence * Raising a $50 million first fund with investments across baby care, hair care, pet care, and beverages

[00:07:40] What Inspires Him * Driven by the pursuit of excellence in whatever role he is in * Meets with founders even when he can't invest; every conversation teaches him something * Reads nonfiction constantly to learn how others persevere * Measures progress in bite-sized steps just like he did as an Olympic athlete

[00:13:00] How He Got Here * After Harvard, got a master's at UT Austin then attended Georgetown Law * Competed professionally in track and field for 10 years including the 2012 London Olympics * Represented Haiti at seven world championships and three Pan American Games * Started his real career as legal counsel in DC before moving into sports business

[00:14:00] From Sports Law to Roc Nation * Started his real career as legal counsel for the Washington Wizards, Capitals, and Mystics * Was happy in sports law when a recruiter called with an offer he couldn't refuse * Jay-Z was looking for someone to handle operations at Roc Nation * Left the sports world for a completely new chapter as an operator

[00:15:40] From Roc Nation to Westbrook * Left Roc Nation after a couple of years and joined Westbrook Inc as SVP of Operations * Helped oversee Will and Jada Pinkett Smith's entire media and production enterprise * Moved to lead their consumer product division covering brands, licensing, and IP monetization * Worked with talent ranging from Pelé and Patrick Mahomes to DJ Jazzy Jeff

[00:19:40] The Vision for Freedom Trail Capital * Goal is to move from fund one to fund two to fund three * Wants to be the tip of the spear for culturally relevant consumer brands * Mission is to prove talent-backed businesses work when paired with discipline and rigor * Model: find scalable, defensible businesses then add the right person of influence

[00:23:40] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Coach Burks * Got cut from his track team in eighth grade; came back junior year to find a new coach * Coach Burks noticed his leaping ability in gym class and introduced him to the triple jump * Had no idea what the triple jump was; just wanted to be a sprinter * That one introduction led him to the 2012 London Olympics and seven world championships

[00:25:40] The Second Relationship: Desiree Perez of Roc Nation * Working under Desiree shaped the pace, discipline, and operating style he carries today * She put him in boardrooms with Facundo Bacardi and Roger Goodell of the NFL * Was in the early rooms when Roc Nation partnered with the NFL on Super Bowl halftime entertainment * The people he met in her orbit opened doors he could never have reached on his own

[00:27:40] What Coach Burks's Introduction Made Possible * Chose to represent Haiti at the Olympics; the Haitian team had six athletes, the US had nearly 600 * After qualifying for the finals, received a personal call from the president of Haiti * Town squares across Haiti filled with thousands watching the Olympic triple jump final * He now sits on the board of a school and orphanage in Haiti; it all started with one introduction

[00:33:00] The Value of One Right Relationship * One right relationship can pay dividends for decades in ways you never expected * His introduction to the triple jump led to the Olympics, which still opens doors today * Every stop was about gaining skills and being more useful at the next one * One introduction can be worth as much as a check

KEY QUOTES "Your network and your relationships, man, it cannot be overstated how valuable it is." - Samyr Laine

"The value of one right relationship. Sometimes it's gotta be at the right time. But the value of one right relationship is tremendous." - Samyr Laine

CONNECT WITH SAMYR LAINE Website: https://www.freedomtrail.capital

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samyrlaine

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samyrlaine

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What if the most important shift you could make as a leader isn't learning more, but learning to hear what's already being said?

In this episode, Guy Legare, clinical psychologist, executive leadership coach at Inperium, and lifelong student of listening, shares one of the most quietly powerful stories you will ever hear on this podcast. It begins in 1990 in New Brunswick, Canada, with a man named James who had been admitted to a psychiatric facility 43 times in 25 years, and ends with a breakfast conversation about Kentucky Fried Chicken that changed the entire direction of Guy's career.

Guy has spent 45 years obsessed with one question: how do I recognize the impact I am having on people so I can change it as quickly as possible? From a chance encounter with psychologist Herb Lovett, to a four-day conversation with a woman named Beth who became his soul sister, to 22 years of partnership with Ryan Dewey Smith at Inperium, every pivotal moment in Guy's life has come through a relationship he couldn't have planned.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Executive Director of Person Driven Clinical Solutions, retiring at the end of June 2026 * Executive Leadership Coach at Inperium for 22 years * Dedicated 45 years to helping organizations build cultures of feedback and listening

[00:06:00] How He Got Here * Dreamed of becoming a chemist; dropped out when it turned out to be boring * Found a job supporting people with physical disabilities in Quebec City * Watched a psychologist reframe situations in a way that stopped everyone cold * Went back to school, became a psychologist, and never looked back

[00:10:40] James and the 3AM Epiphany * In 1990 was working with James, a man with 43 psychiatric admissions in 25 years * After six months, James was getting more frustrated; the team assumed he was getting sick again * Woke up at 3AM and realized the team might be the problem, not James * Showed up unannounced at 8AM and asked James if their efforts had been frustrating him

[00:15:40] "That Took You Long Enough to Figure It Out" * James leaned back, smiled, and said exactly that after six months of 70 to 90 hour weeks * His requests were simple, human, and completely outside the clinical framework * The frustration disappeared the moment they followed what James was actually asking for

[00:16:00] What Six Months of 90-Hour Weeks Actually Taught Him * Was working 70 to 90 hours a week; none of it was landing the way he thought * His belief that he was helping made it impossible to see that he wasn't * The same pattern repeated with 10 or 11 other people; the lesson became undeniable

[00:20:20] James's Two Requests * He didn't want the crisis line; calling it meant police, the ER, and months in a facility * He wanted Bob, a familiar face who could remind him they had been through it before * The psychiatric facility was closing; Bob could move into the community and keep doing the work he loved

[00:25:00] What Changed When They Finally Listened * The minute the team followed what James was asking for, the frustration stopped * He was still struggling with voices; what disappeared was his frustration with the helpers * Admissions got shorter and further apart; he stopped losing his apartment every time

[00:27:00] The Lesson That Never Left * No matter how certain you feel, check with the person you are trying to help * Helpers must systematically verify their impact; it is now an evidence-based practice * If someone tells you that you missed something, that feedback is a gift

[00:28:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Herb Lovett * Met Herb at a two-day training in New Brunswick in the early 1990s * Herb said: "The day I realized I was my client's biggest problem, they all started to do better" * That sentence has guided Guy's work for 45 years * Herb introduced him to Dr. Beth Bero in Pennsylvania, which changed everything again

[00:29:00] The Soul Sister: Dr. Beth Bero * Met Beth through Herb; described it as meeting a long-lost soul sister * They talked nonstop for four days about the work they were both passionate about * Everything Guy knows about conflict, group work, and team dynamics came from her * A one-year contract became two, then three; he met his wife and never left Pennsylvania

[00:33:20] The Thunderbird Framework at Inperium * Uses a leadership framework inspired by the USAF Thunderbirds * The Thunderbirds fly within one inch of each other and debrief after every show without rank * Applying the same principle at Inperium: honest, rank-free debriefing to identify and correct drift * The goal is not blame; it is to keep inching closer to where the team needs to be

[00:35:40] Inperium's Vision and Guy's Role Going Forward * Inperium has grown from 8 organizations in one state to nearly 30 across 21 states * Guy articulates and practices the leadership framework across the full network * Runs the Inperium Leadership Series to build trust and alignment across affiliates * Everything the executive team learns is designed to be adapted by affiliate CEOs too

KEY QUOTES "The day I realized as a psychologist I was my client's biggest problem, they all started to do a whole lot better." - Herb Lovett, as shared by Guy Legare

"If someone tells you that you missed something, the feedback they're giving me is a gift." - Guy Legare

CONNECT WITH GUY LEGARE Website: https://www.inperium.org

Leadership Profile: https://www.inperium.org/leadership/guy-legare

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-legare-3aa1b437

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What if one person putting their neck out for you was all it took to change the entire trajectory of your life?

In this episode, Nas Vou, founder of Do It Digital and host of CEO Insights, shares how a journey that started at McDonald's at age 14 led him from chronic illness and corporate sales in Australia to running a growth-focused digital agency from the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Along the way, one man at Coca-Cola put his reputation on the line for a young, ambitious kid without a degree, and nothing was ever the same after that.

Nas didn't get the role he applied for at first. He got the one below it. Then he got the one he originally wanted. Then he built a career on the back of what that one referral made possible. Today he helps B2B companies sign clients using high-converting funnels and outbound strategies, and he still sends thank-you messages to the man who made it all possible.

[00:04:00] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder of Do It Digital, helping B2B companies sign clients * Specializes in outbound strategies, sales funnels, and lead generation * Hosts CEO Insights podcast on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple

[00:05:00] From McDonald's to the Mediterranean * Started working at 14; wanted his own money and his own destiny * Got sick with glandular fever and chronic fatigue early in his career * Cut his teeth in sales; discovered he was naturally wired for people * Spent the last eight years transitioning from coaching into agency work

[00:07:00] Client Impact: From Website to Strategic Partner * Started with a single website project for a consultant * Client kept giving more projects as trust grew * They became full strategic partners, serving the client's own clients * A transactional project turned into a friendship, a partnership, and a network

[00:10:20] Why Referrals Should Never Lead with Commission * Leading with "send me referrals and I'll pay you" is the wrong message * Referrals work because you want to deepen the relationship, not make money * Your reputation travels with every person you refer * Only refer people whose character and competence you can stand behind

[00:13:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Ashon Cohen * Was 19 with no degree when he asked Ashon, a Coca-Cola rep, to help him get an interview * Ashon put his name and reputation on the line to get Nas in the door * Nas got the role and bought a house at 22 * He credits that one referral for the entire trajectory that followed

[00:17:00] What That Referral Made Possible * Coca-Cola gave him world-class sales training and professional development * That career momentum opened doors that would have taken years otherwise * He still messages Ashon on LinkedIn to say thank you * His belief: sometimes all you need is one person to give you a chance

[00:21:40] When the Student Is Ready * Serendipity in relationships happens when you are ready to receive it * Trust of character plus trust of competence equals zero friction * People who have been in the right rooms think about relationships differently * Values alignment is what makes connections last across distance and time

[00:26:00] One 26-Minute Conversation, Four Incredible People * Had Craig Ballantyne on his podcast; one conversation led to four connections * Kevin was the fourth or fifth person to come from that single introduction * Geography stopped mattering once shared values were in place * Podcasts and communities are how you scale one-to-one relationship building

[00:29:00] Closing Thought: Deepen What You Already Have * Ask yourself: how can you deepen the relationships you already have? * Moving countries showed him how quickly you can lose the networks you relied on * Consistent conversations keep connections alive across distance and time

KEY QUOTES "Trust of character and trust of competence. When those two trusts are there, there's zero friction and things can just flow." - Nas Vou

"Without people, nothing really matters. As long as humans are around, people will always need people." - Nas Vou

CONNECT WITH NAS VOU

Website: https://www.doitdigital.agency

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasvou

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nas.vou

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What if the most powerful word you could say in your business and your life is the one you've been afraid to use?

In this episode, Dana Skaggs, psychotherapist, podcaster, and keynote speaker, shares how nearly two decades in private practice and a very personal journey with her mother's mental illness led her to become one of the most passionate voices on boundaries in the country. They call her the Queen of Boundaries, and she didn't ask for the title. She just kept showing up for people who were burning out, avoiding conflict, and slowly disappearing from their own lives.

Dana's keynote, Becoming the CEO of Your Mental Boardroom, is built on a simple truth: you already know you should set boundaries. The real question is why you aren't. And that question is exactly where her work begins.

[00:04:00] What She Does and Who She Serves * Psychotherapist with a master's in clinical psychology and nearly 20 years in private practice * Host of Phoenix and Flame podcast, built to help people feel less alone * Keynote speaker on boundaries and burnout for high performers and organizations

[00:05:40] What Inspires Her: Watching People Become Free * Loves watching clients go from trapped and overwhelmed to stronger and liberated * You stop hoping others won't harm you; you start creating your own safety * The people-pleasing tap dance ends; you can only keep your own peace

[00:06:00] The High Performers She's Fighting For * High performers keep giving until their gas tank runs dry * She's seen them on FMLA, in the ER, sick before work every morning * They're talented and creative; they just never learned to say no * Her mission is to reach them before burnout does

[00:07:00] The Keynoting Business Taking Shape * Did her first major keynote at a national convention in Dollywood * Has since spoken for chambers of commerce and young professionals groups * Signature talk: Becoming the CEO of Your Mental Boardroom: Banishing Burnout with Boundaries * Heart's desire is to reach more organizations, teams, and women's groups

[00:11:20] Why Boundaries Make You Better at Your Job * Boundaries don't give people permission to slack; they keep people performing long term * Work affects home and home affects work; they are not separate * Healthy boundaries in both areas lift both; the reverse is equally true

[00:16:00] Client Impact: From Isolation to Thriving * A client was about to quit her job; coworkers were taking advantage and she had no tools to respond * At home she was avoiding her father and had drifted from all her friends * Small application assignments helped her find her voice at work and at home * She didn't quit; coworkers changed, her father's behavior improved, and she found a new friend group

[00:22:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Yolanda Harris * A podcast guest told Dana she needed to meet Yolanda Harris, a branding expert for keynote speakers * Yolanda took her through a full rebranding process three years ago * Dana told her it felt like every other word was Russian; Yolanda never let go * Her patience helped Dana see herself as a keynote speaker for the first time

[00:25:00] The Second Community: MicDrop Workshop and Jess Ekstrom * Was accepted into MicDrop Academy, described as the Navy SEALs of the speaking world * Jess Ekstrom leads with a heart specifically for women who speak * Being around giants in the field accelerated Dana's growth

[00:25:40] The Relationship That Shaped Everything: Her Mother * Her mother's mental illness dominated and enmeshed the entire family * Dana grew up believing her mother's moods were her fault and her responsibility to fix * Her aunt gave her a boundaries book by Cloud and Townsend in 1992; it felt like magic * That moment became the foundation of everything she does today

[00:33:40] Final Word: Baby Steps and Grace * Entrepreneurship is jumping off a cliff and figuring out the parachute on the way down * Baby steps taken consistently create real change * That is not just encouragement; it is a boundary lesson

KEY QUOTES "You become stronger, you become safe. You are not hoping that someone else isn't gonna try to harm you. We learn how to create our own safety, and then we become liberated." - Dana Skaggs

"You can't keep someone else's peace. You can only keep your own." - Dana Skaggs

CONNECT WITH DANA SKAGGS Website: http://www.danaskaggs.com

Boundary Quiz: http://www.danaskaggs.com/quiz

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabskaggs-speaker

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dana.b.skaggs

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What if the boldest thing a nonprofit could do isn't fight to survive alone, but choose to grow together?

In this episode, Jay Deppeler, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer at Inperium, shares how a 25-year journey through the health and human services sector led him to one of the most revolutionary models in nonprofit leadership. Imperium now operates across 20 states with 34 affiliates and more than $800 million in revenue, all without erasing a single organization's identity or mission.

Jay didn't start in boardrooms. He started as a 19-year-old psychology student working with traumatized kids in a residential treatment facility, wondering why the systems around them weren't better. That question never left him. And when he met Ryan Dewey Smith in 2016, it found its answer.

[00:04:40] What He Does and Who He Serves * Senior EVP and Chief Development Officer at Inperium, a nonprofit-supporting organization * Inperium strengthens health and human service nonprofits without eroding their mission or local identity * Affiliates gain scale, infrastructure, and capital while keeping their name, vision, and values

[00:05:40] How He Got Here * Started as a 19-year-old psychology student working with traumatized kids in a residential treatment facility * Saw 84 kids at full capacity with interventions he felt weren't robust enough * Pursued a master's in counseling psychology at Lehigh University to go deeper into the work * Realized the people he was helping were supported by nonprofits that needed to be stronger at the systems level

[00:09:00] Building Edison Court * Became president and CEO of Edison Court in 2012 and led its first ever strategic plan * Faced a major funding shift from program funding to fee-for-service and later managed care * Tried and failed to recruit other nonprofits to grow together; ego and identity concerns blocked every attempt * Decided to raise his hand and look for a larger partner instead; that partner was Inperium

[00:11:20] Meeting Ryan Dewey Smith * Met Ryan in August 2016 in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania * Ryan introduced the concept of affiliation as distinct from merger or acquisition * Affiliating organizations keep their mission, vision, and values while gaining back office support * Jay was persuaded immediately; eight months later Edison Court became Inperium's third affiliate

[00:13:00] What Affiliation Actually Looks Like * Within three months of affiliating, Edison Court opened its first facility outside its home county * Went back to organizations that had said no and showed them what was possible; they all came in * Helped the Children's Home of Reading, on the brink of insolvency after 150 years, with a $400,000 loan to make payroll * That organization restructured, re-strategized, and is now flourishing

[00:17:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Ryan Dewey Smith * Without Ryan's vision, Jay believes Edison Court would not have survived the funding shifts * Ryan's energy and audacity know no bounds; he never runs from a problem * He gives his leadership team full latitude to leverage their unique skills * His can-do attitude was transformative in 2016 and remains so today

[00:21:40] When Everyone Ran for the Hills * In 2024 an organization with $300 million in revenue lost $26 million over two fiscal years * Their bank was calling a $22 million line of credit on May 31st; cash would run out by early July * That put 3,800 employees and 35,000 people supported by the organization at serious risk * Inperium was the only organization that stepped in with a $25 million line of credit

[00:25:40] The Federally Qualified Health Center * The organization had a federally qualified healthcare center that couldn't affiliate under Inperium's governance structure * Losing it would have left thousands of underserved people in Philadelphia without healthcare * Jay brokered a deal with a local healthcare center to underwrite a new 501c3 and reapply for the federal grant * Within seven days of recording, they will be a fully operational new federally qualified health center

[00:29:00] Affiliation Is a Strategy, Not a Surrender * Boards resist affiliation because they fear losing their identity; Inperium lets them keep it * Affiliation is not concession; it is a strategic pivot to deal with the realities of the world * For-profit businesses do this constantly; nonprofits tend to leave their pragmatic hats at the door * No money, no mission; no margin, no mission; the work has to be run like a business

KEY QUOTES "Affiliation isn't concession. Affiliation isn't giving up. Affiliation is a strategy to pivot and deal with the realities of the world." - Jay Deppeler

"If you have no money, you have no mission. If you have no margin, you have no mission." - Jay Deppeler

CONNECT WITH JAY DEPPELER Website: http://www.inperium.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaydeppeler

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What if the connection that changes everything isn't the one you're chasing, but the one you almost overlooked?

In this episode, Ron Nussbaum, Marine Corps veteran, founder of BuilderComs and Buildable Labs, and host of Construction Champions Podcast, shares how a knee injury in a swamp ended his military career and accidentally launched one of the most impactful entrepreneurial journeys in the construction industry.

Ron didn't set out to build software. He set out to solve a problem nobody else was solving: the communication chaos that costs construction companies money, trust, and time every single day. And the relationships he built along the way, not the money, not the marketing, are what made it all possible.

[00:03:40] What He Does and Who He Serves * Founder of BuilderComs, the messaging-first communication platform for construction teams * Also runs Buildable Labs, a custom software firm built around each company's unique systems * Hosts Construction Champions Podcast, one of the biggest in the industry

[00:06:40] How He Got Here: From the Marines to Construction * Planned to be a career Marine; a knee injury on a night training op ended that instantly * Spotted a foreman-in-training ad on Craigslist and waited two weeks before applying * The owner, an 82nd Airborne vet, hired him on the spot * He had never swung a hammer on a house in his life

[00:08:20] Finding His People on the Job Site * Found the brotherhood and camaraderie he had lost when he left the Marines * Knew he was behind in skill; outworked everyone instead * Went from running a jackhammer to running an eight-figure business with 150 employees

[00:11:40] Client Impact: The Veteran Who Almost Quit * Was working with an Army veteran transitioning into a new line of business * The week before the breakthrough, the client was ready to shut everything down * Ron's message: stay at it, trust the vision, execute the plan * Two weeks ago the client texted: first sale, all cash, $90,000

[00:15:20] The Relationship That Changed Everything * Was pushed by a room of people to start the podcast even though he didn't feel called to it * Used the podcast to finally get the attention of a major name in construction SaaS * After recording, that person said: "You're real. What can I do for you?" * He opened doors and a network Ron could never have accessed on his own

[00:18:00] The Adjacent Relationship Principle * The person who changes your life is rarely the one you're closest to * It's usually someone adjacent to a relationship you've already invested in * A woman he had met with weekly for three years made the introduction that mattered most * Organic introductions from real relationships beat any marketing budget

[00:23:00] Dinner and Dreams: How to Show Up * Most people come into conversations asking what they can get * The right approach: pitch a vision, listen 25 minutes out of 30, make your five minutes count * The goal is to be what someone talks about at dinner and dreams about at night

[00:28:20] The Ripple That Saved a Business * The SaaS founder's belief in Ron kept him going through a season of serious doubt * That validation led to a customer who told someone about the podcast * That person and their partner were about to shut down; the podcast pulled them back * Ron had no idea until they wrote to thank him; he later had them on as guests

[00:32:20] Impact Is a Long-Term Play * BuilderComs launched four and a half years ago with one goal: fix communication in construction * Impact has to be genuine; people see through it the moment things get hard * Ron has never taken outside capital; he will not let someone else's agenda drive his mission

[00:37:20] Send the Ripple Anyway * The person you connect two people with is probably not the one who will change their life * It's the connection after that one that does it * Ron sends introductions even when he has no logical reason; just a feeling * In order for ripples to come back to you, you have to be sending them out

KEY QUOTES "When you have calls with people, it's not about closing anything. It's about dinner and dreams. You want that call to be what they talk about at dinner and what they dream about at night." - Ron Nussbaum

"Every relationship I've built, it hasn't necessarily been the person I'm closest to that makes the greatest impact. It's the adjacent connection that changes everything." - Ron Nussbaum

"In order for the ripples to come back your way, you have to be sending ripples somewhere." - Ron Nussbaum

CONNECT WITH RON NUSSBAUM Podcast: http://www.constructionchampionspodcast.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-nussbaum

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronwesley.nussbaum

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What if the business idea that found you was better than any you could have planned?

In this episode, Brad Robins, serial entrepreneur, sports marketing veteran, and co-founder of Kitchen Blockers, shares the story of how a pickleball to the face on a drive back from Cincinnati sparked one of the most unexpected entrepreneurial adventures of his life. At 66, Brad had planned to retire. Instead he built the world's largest eye safety protection company for pickleball, now selling in 45 countries, in just 14 months.

Brad's career has taken him from the Apple Computer launch team to bringing Facebook to Canada, to advising Olympic athletes and philanthropists on personal branding. But the story that shaped all of it starts with a father who was pushed into the wrong life, and a son who watched closely and went the opposite direction.

[00:05:00] What He's Working On Now * Co-founder of Kitchen Blockers, the world's largest eye safety protection company for pickleball * Sells in 45 countries; became category leader in just 14 months * Official lensless eyewear partner of USA Pickleball, the national governing body

[00:06:00] How Kitchen Blockers Was Born * Got hit in the eye at a tournament and realized almost nobody was protecting their vision on court * Named the product after the kitchen line, where most eye injuries happen * Called a military engineering relative who had designed helmets and eyewear; had prototypes in motion within weeks

[00:09:20] Early Proof and Global Growth * Ran a small test campaign in Canada; generated strong return on advertising spend * Expanded to the US market and scaled rapidly * Sold close to 50,000 pairs of HeadSnap with no reported eye injuries from ball impact

[00:10:00] The Brand Mission: Changing the Face of Pickleball * Brand positioning: change the face of pickleball * Mantra: love the product or not, please put something on your eyes * Applauds competitors who also promote eye safety; the goal is category awareness, not just market share * Serving players from 8 to 80; no narrow demographic, no restrictions

[00:12:20] Why the Sport Is More Dangerous Than People Think * Most injuries are not from hard drives but from deflections and ricochets off a partner's paddle * Coordination levels vary wildly on the same court because anyone can play with anyone * Targeting ophthalmologists and youth programs to change safety habits from the ground up

[00:16:00] What Inspires Him: A Completely Open Runway * Was part of the Apple Computer launch team and helped bring Facebook to Canada * First product in his career where nobody can argue against the premise * For the first time, he executes his own creative vision without needing anyone's approval

[00:20:20] The Vision Going Forward * Seeking the right global partner to scale impact and reach more players faster * Wants to make pickleball eyewear a form of artistic expression * Believes eye protection should eventually be mandated the way it was in squash

[00:25:40] Why Pickleball Is Unlike Any Other Sport * Anybody can play with anybody across all ages and fitness levels * Pulls up to any community court and plays with total strangers * Describes it as speed dating where everyone leaves happy * The joy of pickleball is in the connection, not the outcome

[00:28:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: His Father * His father was pushed by the family to become a lawyer; his uncle, a Supreme Court judge, ordered it * Brad's father was deeply unhappy in law; his real joy was building things and sailing * Brad went the opposite direction; built a life around engaged passion and creative expression

[00:32:40] The Intern Who Landed His First Client * Volunteered at an advertising agency and did every task no one else wanted * On his lunch hour, pitched a prospective client independently and came back with a new account * Has lived by that principle ever since: create your own path, don't wait for permission

[00:37:00] Kill Them with Kindness * Lives by two rules: never take a backward step and kill them with kindness * Has been actively focused on showing appreciation to people for 12 years * Three strangers at Costco said he was the only person who had smiled at them all day * There is not a person on earth who gets too much appreciation

KEY QUOTES "Relationships are the keys to everything." - Brad Robins

"Kill them with kindness. There is not a person on the face of this earth that gets too much appreciation." - Brad Robins

CONNECT WITH BRAD ROBINS Website: https://www.kitchenblockers.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinspartnership

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Kitchen-Blockers/61554179590995

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchenblockers

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kitchenblockers

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What if the best business mentor you never had wasn't a person at all?

In this episode, Chris Gilmour, educator, wilderness guide, course creator, and resilience consultant, shares how a fascination with wildlife tracking in his early twenties led him to one of the most unique and meaningful careers imaginable. Over two decades, Chris has taught thousands of people how to grow food, navigate the wild, and build resilience, not as a doomsday prepper, but as a practical, grounded human being who understands that nature has been solving complex problems long before we arrived.

His work sits at the intersection of ecology, emergency preparedness, and ancestral wisdom, and it all traces back to one man: John Young, who taught Chris to track deer and inadvertently taught him how to see the patterns that run through everything.

[00:03:40] What He Does and Who He Serves * Educator, wilderness guide, and resilience consultant * Helps individuals and organizations reconnect with nature and build resilience * Works with businesses, municipalities, and hospitals on preparedness and resilience audits

[00:04:40] Where It All Started * Got into wilderness guiding in his early twenties * Became obsessed with reading wildlife tracks, weather patterns, and birdsong * Those skills taught him pattern recognition and how to connect the dots in complex systems

[00:06:00] Reconnecting People with the Land * Humans have lost a deep connection to the land that shaped us for thousands of years * Ancestral skills still train our brains and bodies in ways that matter today * Time in nature calms the nervous system and restores balance amid constant tech and noise

[00:07:00] Holistic Preparedness * Not doomsday prepping; a practical, non-fear-based approach to an uncertain world * Helps individuals, communities, and organizations adapt to extreme weather, pandemics, and financial disruption * Bridges emergency management expertise with ecology for a uniquely holistic angle

[00:08:20] Resilient Design * Lives on a small homestead, growing food and balancing land-based living with consulting work * Applies sustainable agricultural thinking to how businesses and individuals hold up under pressure * What makes a food system locally resilient also makes a business resilient to disruption

[00:09:40] What Inspires Him: Million Dollar Relationships * Sitting alone in a hotel restaurant at 10pm on a work trip, had a profound epiphany * Realized no amount of money would make him stop doing this work * Sent Kevin an email that same night after thinking about what a million dollar relationship really means * Confirmed he is living his life's purpose and would not trade it

[00:14:40] How He Helps People Who Feel Overwhelmed * Most people either ignore the anxiety or spiral into extreme prepper mode; neither works * Humans are born survivors; reframing that story is the first step * Audits organizations, maps every vulnerability, then finds the low-hanging fruit * Small proactive steps create immediate relief; you sleep better when you've done something

[00:19:20] Client Impact: The Young Man Who Came Full Circle * Worked with at-risk youth in his early guiding days, taking young offenders into the wilderness * One young man with a severe alcohol problem resurfaced years later in a very dark place * Chris used his network to land him a summer job with a park warden in remote backcountry * He is now seven years sober, a father, and works with at-risk youth through nature connection

[00:24:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: John Young * A friend introduced Chris to John Young in his early twenties * John is an author, TED speaker, and founder of schools focused on land connection * Chris went to learn tracking but John was really teaching pattern recognition and systems thinking * That foundation led Chris to study emergency management and eventually consult with hospitals and municipalities

[00:27:40] What John Planted That Grew into Everything * John introduced the idea that culture can be designed intentionally * That sparked Chris's obsession with patterns across healthy cultures, communities, and ecosystems * The pattern thinking John taught is the foundation for every client conversation Chris has today

[00:31:20] What Being a Tracker Really Means * Tracking started as reading animal prints; it became something far bigger * Now it means tracking ripples across time, culture, business, and human relationships * The mission is applying ancient pattern wisdom to the most complex modern challenges * Healthy humans, ecosystems, and businesses all share the same resilience patterns

KEY QUOTES "I realized that if I had millions of dollars in the bank, I would still be sitting here working on my notes to go serve this community. That relationship is literally worth more than a million dollars to me." — Chris Gilmour

"John taught me to track deer. That led me down this deep rabbit hole that basically led to how I do my work today." — Chris Gilmour

"Healthy humans are more resilient. Healthy ecosystems are more resilient. Healthy businesses are more resilient. How do we put those all together? That's my sacred question." — Chris Gilmour

CONNECT WITH CHRIS GILMOUR 🌐 Website: https://www.chrisoutdoors.ca

🌲 Consulting: https://www.chrisoutdoors.ca/consulting

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisoutdoors

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What if everything you were meant to build was already waiting on the other side of a door you almost never opened?

In this episode, Jeremy Barker, founder and CEO of Murphy Door, shares the origin story behind one of the most inventive brands in home design. Murphy Door now controls roughly 92% of global search for hidden doors, ships a door every six minutes, and has served everyone from homeowners building Barbie rooms to the creators of the John Wick experience in Las Vegas.

Jeremy didn't start as a businessperson. He was a full-time firefighter paramedic who wanted to build a hidden theater room for his daughters on a tight budget. That creative problem turned into a multi-million dollar company, a patented ladder brand, a real estate portfolio, and a peer review software platform. At the center of all of it is a man who almost missed everything because he used to burn the bridges other people were trying to build for him.

[00:03:40] What He Does * Founder and CEO of Murphy Door, a Utah-based manufacturer of hidden-door furniture and experiential design * Also created Murphy Ladder, a patented collapsible ladder, and Purebrand, a peer-powered customer review platform * Holds a growing portfolio of commercial real estate and hotels * Ships a door every six minutes; Murphy Door owns roughly 92% of global search for hidden doors

[00:04:20] How Murphy Door Started * Was a full-time firefighter paramedic trying to build a small hidden theater room for his daughters * Couldn't find anyone making the door hardware he needed, so he designed his own hinges * Sold the hinges as a side business while still fighting fires; grew to $5 million in revenue by 2016 * His wife pointed out he was working 520 hours a month; he left full-time firefighting to focus solely on the business

[00:08:00] What Inspires Him * Loves helping businesses create immersive experiences, not just products * Built the hidden door systems for the John Wick experience in Las Vegas for Lionsgate * Gets to work with everyone from 8-year-olds wanting a Barbie room to 70-year-olds building speakeasies and humidors * Feels like Forrest Gump every day: sitting across from people he has admired for years and wondering how he got there

[00:12:20] The Relationship That Changed Everything: John Porter * John Porter was the state president of his local LDS congregation who took a liking to Jeremy despite Jeremy not being a churchgoer * He saw something in Jeremy that Jeremy couldn't see in himself and provided the financial backing to help him get there * Jeremy openly admits he used to burn bridges, take personal credit for everything, and dismiss the role others played in his success * Two bankruptcies and a period of serious depression were what finally shifted his perspective on relationships

[00:15:00] How He Pays It Forward * Looks for opportunities every day to give, ideally in ways that help the most people with the same amount of effort * Helped bring PulsePoint software to his county in Utah, which notifies all first responders of nearby cardiac arrests so anyone can run and help * Also supports drug rehabilitation efforts and various community programs * Believes giving money is the lazy version of giving; giving time is the real currency

[00:21:00] The Vision: Murphy Door as a Manufacturing Laboratory * Sees Murphy Door not as a door company but as a laboratory for the future of domestic manufacturing and mass customization * Because they source domestic commodities and manufacture locally, their inventory tail is essentially zero * This allows full customization: customers choose wood type, handle, size, swing, and finish with delivery in around 30 days * Believes tariffs are important because they push companies to manufacture closer to home, reducing logistics waste and supply chain vulnerability

[00:26:00] Taking Care of People First * Murphy Door employees receive 100% health, dental, and vision coverage, 4% 401k match, tuition reimbursement, maternity leave, and five weeks off * Operates on an inverted pyramid: employees come first, customers come second * Learned the hard way that happy employees produce happy customers; he was doing it backwards for years * Murphy Door holds a 4.9 Google rating across hundreds of reviews

[00:33:40] What Every One-Star Review Is Really Worth * Doesn't believe in one-star or five-star reviews as true measures of quality * Sees every one-star as a 360-degree review opportunity to understand the full experience that led someone there * Prefers customers call him directly before leaving a bad review; he will take the call and fix it * Created Purebrand specifically to help businesses get more honest, actionable, and complete customer feedback

[00:36:20] Founder Fallout: The Book * Published a book called Founder Fallout covering 100 questions to ask before taking on a business partner or splitting equity * Designed for entrepreneurs who have a great idea and a good friend but haven't asked the hard questions yet * Includes a workbook for sitting down with a current or future partner * Available on Amazon; his uncle said he should have read it before getting married

KEY QUOTES "Murphy Door owns about 92% of the world's search of hidden doors right now. We became the category, which you always dream of." — Jeremy Barker

"As much as you hunt for growth in work, you should hunt just as much for the opportunity to give." — Jeremy Barker

"I put my employees first and my customers second. It's really hard to have super happy customers if you have super unhappy employees." — Jeremy Barker

CONNECT WITH JEREMY BARKER 🌐 Website: https://www.murphydoor.com

🌐 Personal: https://www.jeremybarker.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejeremybarker

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What if the people nobody believed in turned out to be the ones worth believing in most?

In this episode, Michael Thomas, CEO of ConnectIDD and former 14-year CEO of My Possibilities, shares how nearly 20 years in the disability space has brought him to one clear conviction: we are at a tipping point. Adults with disabilities are running Ironmans, graduating from purpose-built college campuses, and landing jobs at companies that actively seek them out. The systems are finally starting to catch up.

Michael built a 16-acre, 72,000 square foot campus for higher learning in North Texas from the ground up, led a $30 million capital campaign to make it happen, and is now channeling everything he learned into ConnectIDD, a disability empowerment agency helping organizations across the country do the same. At the center of all of it are two mentors who shaped not just his career, but the kind of leader he became.

[00:03:40] What He Does and Who He Serves * Runs ConnectIDD, a disability empowerment agency that plugs into organizations looking to grow their impact * Works with nonprofits, foundations, and businesses serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities * Leads complex projects like capital campaigns, program launches, and organizational growth strategies * Every engagement is individualized; there is no one-size-fits-all approach

[00:06:40] How He Got Here * Grew up around disability; his sister, mother, grandmother, and uncle all share a genetic condition * Spent time as a kid at Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas, a specialized children's hospital * Started college in music therapy, switched to philosophy when the program was cut, and found his way to the Muscular Dystrophy Association right out of college * A fraternity mentor pointed out that the volunteer work he loved, Special Olympics and fundraising events, was actually a career

[00:09:40] What Inspires Him: Rooting for the Underdog * His father instilled a lifelong habit of rooting for the underdog in any situation * People with disabilities are the quintessential underdogs; systems were never designed to elevate them * A father in Florida recently led 16 adults with autism and Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman * The fuel in the tank is watching expectations get shattered and systems finally start to change

[00:13:00] Client Impact: The Garden Foundation in Las Vegas * Engaged with the Garden Foundation, led by an exceptional founder who built it for her sister and others like her * They had a waiting list for services but were limited by space; helped them identify and acquire a property in Las Vegas * The property includes a house and a renovated 16,000 square foot office space with a view over the city * The ribbon cutting is in 10 days; they are now serving more people with plans to grow further

[00:15:20] We Are at the Disability Tipping Point * Twenty years ago nobody talked about inclusive housing or actively hiring people with autism * Today companies recognize the talent and loyalty of employees with disabilities * Educational campuses, workforce development programs, and inclusive residential communities are now being built across the country * His hope: by the time he retires, inclusion is simply the norm and not the exception

[00:17:20] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Linda Smith * Linda Smith spent 40 years as chief development officer of Opportunity Village in Las Vegas, named the Mother Teresa of the Desert by the governor of Nevada * Her son was born with Down Syndrome and was denied US citizenship not because of immigration but because of his disability * She raised more than half a billion dollars for people with disabilities over her career * She took Michael under her wing, showed him what intentional relationship building looks like, and has been in his corner for 16 to 17 years since

[00:20:20] The Second Relationship: Larry Solomon * Larry Solomon was vice president of Human Resources at Dr. Pepper and husband of the founder of My Possibilities * Michael joined the organization at 26 and needed refining; Larry was the professional coach who helped him get there * The core lesson Larry instilled: take care of your people because they take care of people * He was a behind-the-scenes mentor whose influence shows up in everything Michael does today

[00:22:40] The Impact: A 16-Acre Campus for Higher Learning * Young adults with disabilities were being parked in day programs watching Disney movies; they wanted college and nobody was building it * Michael led the vision to build a university-style campus for adults with disabilities in North Texas * Linda came out to speak to the board; Larry's coaching drove the professional execution; the team delivered * The campus now sits on 16 acres with 72,000 square feet of educational space, offering college-style programs tailored to each person's goals

[00:28:40] Go Find Real Community * The most important thing missing right now is the ability to truly connect and find community * Humans are communal by nature; as we have become less connected, stress, depression, anxiety, and suicide have all risen * Real community means being able to say "I'm not well" to people who genuinely care about you * His 11-year-old twin sons are already better at communicating emotion than most adults; the younger generation may be the teachers here

KEY QUOTES "I think we're at the disability tipping point. Twenty years ago, nobody talked about inclusive housing communities for people with disabilities." — Michael Thomas

"We have to take care of our people because they take care of people. It doesn't make any sense not to lean into the support of your team." — Michael Thomas

"A lot of therapy wouldn't be needed if we still had community. We would just go talk with people that care about us." — Michael Thomas

CONNECT WITH MICHAEL THOMAS 🌐 Website: https://www.connectidd.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connectidd

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What if the worst thing that ever happened to you turned out to be the very thing that made you unstoppable?

In this episode, Aaron Hale, retired Army Staff Sergeant, EOD Team Leader, speaker, podcaster, real estate investor, and small business owner, shares one of the most extraordinary stories of resilience you will ever hear. In 2011, an IED blast in Afghanistan took his eyes. Four years later, bacterial meningitis took what was left of his hearing. He is now both blind and deaf, and he just ran 205 miles across Kenya and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, believed to be the first blind-deaf person to ever accomplish that feat.

Aaron doesn't call himself a victim. He calls his injuries divine direction. And through his podcast, speaking, and the way he shows up every single day, he is busy proving that the story of your struggle can become the blueprint for someone else's survival.

[00:04:20] Just Back from Africa: The Seed to Summit Trek * Ran 205 miles from Mombasa, Kenya to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro over nine days * Climbed the tallest peak in Africa, completing a full seed to summit expedition * Believes he is the first blind-deaf person to ever accomplish this * Fulfilled a plan made 11 years earlier, interrupted by the meningitis that stole his hearing

[00:06:20] What He Does Now * Speaker, podcaster, real estate investor, and co-owner of Extra Ordinary Delights, an artisan chocolate company * Calls himself an excuse killer; uses adversity as fuel, not an anchor * Hosts the Point of Impact podcast to show people how to become their best selves

[00:09:00] Blind, Deaf, and Still Showing Up * Lost his eyes in an IED blast in 2011 while serving as an Army EOD technician * Bacterial meningitis in 2015 took the rest of his hearing and destroyed his inner ear balance * Uses a cochlear implant connected directly to his auditory nerve to communicate

[00:12:20] How He Got Here: From Navy Chef to Army Bomb Technician * Got asked to leave college, joined the Navy, and became a chef to a three-star admiral in Italy * Left cooking, joined the Army, and became an EOD bomb technician * Was on his third deployment when the IED blast happened, just days after seeing his firstborn son turn one

[00:14:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Kyle * Kyle, a fellow EOD team leader, was injured two weeks before Aaron and was already at Walter Reed when Aaron arrived * He wheeled into Aaron's room, made him feel the beard he had grown out of defiance, and cracked jokes about his condition * He was at full spirit just two weeks after losing a leg * That moment showed Aaron he had no excuse to quit; warriors up and down those halls were all still fighting

[00:19:20] What Inspires Him: The Gift of a Story * In the military, relationships mean survival; you trust the people on your left and right with your life * After his injury, he felt like he lost that brotherhood, but it transformed into something new * He was given the gift of a story and the ability to flick the light switch on for others * Getting to help someone see their situation differently is both altruistic and deeply personally rewarding

[00:22:40] The Relationships That Opened the World: Eric Weihenmayer and Lonnie Bedwell * Began searching online for blind people living actively: blind plus outdoors, blind plus fitness, blind plus anything * Found Eric Weihenmayer, the first blind person to climb all seven summits; went climbing with him in the Peruvian Andes at 19,000 feet * Found Lonnie Bedwell, the first blind person to kayak the entire Grand Canyon solo; went kayaking with him too * These men took his thinking from a peephole to a bay window; he had been thinking far too small

[00:26:00] What That Perspective Unlocked * Registered for four marathons before ever running longer than a 10K * Three of those qualified him for the Boston Marathon, which he ran in 2015 * In 2023 became the first blind-deaf person to finish Badwater 135, the toughest foot race on Earth

[00:29:40] The Impact He Got to Make: Kilimanjaro with 25 Friends * When he arrived at Kilimanjaro, 25 friends, family, and associates had come to be part of the climb * Many had never done anything like it; his story inspired them to say yes * A close friend from his military real estate mastermind, someone he had spoken with weekly for years, climbed it right alongside him

[00:31:00] Aaron's Marathon Training Day * Reached out to Team Red, White and Blue for help training for his first marathon * They organized a weekly Sunday run called Aaron's Marathon Training Day, open to anyone at any pace * Week after week more people showed up; it outgrew him and became a full community movement * He got to be the catalyst; it kept snowballing long after it needed him to carry it

KEY QUOTES "The difference between a rut and a grave is how long you lay there. I did not want to get stuck on the couch." — Aaron Hale

"Someday the story of your struggle may be the blueprint for somebody else's survival." — Aaron Hale

"We can't control the blast, but we can control the next step. And almost always, we can't accomplish the impossible without a team." — Aaron Hale

CONNECT WITH AARON HALE 🎙️ Podcast: https://www.pointofimpactpod.com

🌐 Website: https://www.outtasightventures.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-hale-1861477

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aclayhale

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What if the business relationship that challenged you the most was also the one that taught you the most?

In this episode, Latif Hamilton, CEO of SpiritHoods and founder of The Growth Operative, shares the story behind one of the most creative and resilient brands in fashion e-commerce. Over 16 years, SpiritHoods has generated more than $55 million in revenue, won multiple PETA Libby Awards, and built a cult following that includes artists like Doja Cat and Justin Bieber, all while donating 10% of net profits to animal conservation.

This episode isn't just about building a brand. It's about what Latif learned when a complementary business partnership forced him to grow in directions he never would have chosen on his own. And it's about the hard-won lessons around inventory, cash flow, transparency, and the kind of character-driven business that earns customers for life.

[00:04:20] What He Does and Who He Serves * CEO of SpiritHoods, a faux fur animal-inspired apparel brand, and founder of The Growth Operative consultancy * The Growth Operative focuses on e-commerce companies in the $1 to $10 million revenue range * Offers a mix of doing the work and educating clients; the goal is never to leave clients dependent * Covers SEO, creative marketing, email infrastructure, product development, and design

[00:06:40] Why He Fired His Agencies * Fired his ad, SEO, and email marketing agencies after repeatedly damaging experiences with all three * The problem was not always the agencies; it was going into those relationships without foundational knowledge * Ad agencies are incentivized to run more ads, not make them efficient * Understanding your own business fundamentals is what gives you real financial freedom

[00:11:00] What Inspires Him * Loves blowing people's minds with nuances they didn't know existed in their own business * SpiritHoods ranks top three for "faux fur coat," a keyword with hundreds of thousands of monthly searches * Transparency matters: he is not a gatekeeper and shares everything that benefits the client * Character and morality are the lens he uses when choosing who to work with

[00:13:40] How SpiritHoods Started * Left a remodeling business after the 2008 crash and started researching product-based opportunities * A friend wore a faux fur hat made for Burning Man out to dinner and had the most incredible night of his life * The three founders wrote the business plan that same night, including the 10% giveback to endangered animals * Was in Guatemala working with sea turtles when the call came: get home, there's a trade show in three weeks

[00:17:40] The Trade Show That Launched Everything * Flew back early and walked into a buttoned-up Vegas fashion trade show as a group of playful young hooligans * Their booth was full of stuffed animals and energy while everyone else was stiff and serious * Did $40,000 at that first show with only samples and no production locked in * Energy and group comradery drew people in; the fun stood out in a room full of pretension

[00:19:20] Navigating Tariffs, Fashion's Hard Season, and the Pivot * Products are made in Asia and cannot realistically be manufactured elsewhere; tariffs are hitting hard * Saw the writing on the wall two years ago and began deliberately downsizing SpiritHoods to stay nimble * Major fashion conglomerates have filed for bankruptcy; the sector is under serious pressure * Pivoted to consulting full-time, applying 16 years of hard-earned e-commerce knowledge to help other brands

[00:22:40] The Content Rule: Entertain or Educate, Nothing Else * Every piece of content must sit on a pillar of entertainment or education * If you are only reaching out to sell, you are not providing value and you will lose people * Giving 150% value, paid or not, is how cult-like brand loyalty is built * SpiritHoods items retailed for $120 and later resold on eBay for $2,000; that is what real desirability creates

[00:24:40] The Black Friday Story: Transparency That Built a Tribe * Realized mid-sale that body suits were discounted too low after customers had already purchased at a higher price * Standard practice would be to quietly deepen the discount without telling anyone; they chose not to * Manually refunded every previous buyer the difference, which was harder and more costly to do * The result was a flood of loyalty emails from customers saying: this is exactly why we love SpiritHoods

[00:30:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: His Former Business Partner * Met his ex-partner through a domestic faux fur supply relationship that grew into a full business partnership * His partner ran a $50 million B2B company; finance-driven, analytical, and strong-willed * They were opposing ends of the entrepreneurial spectrum, which caused friction and created enormous learning * They parted amicably, and the lessons in finance, international operations, and inventory thinking shaped everything after

[00:33:20] What the Dichotomy Taught Him * His partner's rigid, finite thinking protected the bottom line in ways creative thinking alone never could * Latif built the brand; his partner built the business infrastructure * Artists like Doja Cat and Justin Bieber found and bought SpiritHoods without ever being approached * The tension between their styles was uncomfortable in the moment and invaluable in hindsight

[00:35:40] The Real Impact: Inventory Turnover and Cash Flow Discipline * After the split, Latif blended his partner's financial lens with his own SEO knowledge to build a smarter product system * Too much inventory ties up cash; that is one of the top reasons businesses fail * As a creative and founder, cutting a product you love is hard; doing it anyway is essential * You have to look at your inventory with a critical eye, not an emotional one

[00:39:00] What the First Big Knockoff Taught Him * Did $1 million in year one and $4 million in year two on the back of celebrity buzz and pop culture momentum * Then got knocked off; sales dropped and they had no playbook for what came next * That moment forced them to actually become entrepreneurs; the real learning began when the easy ride stopped * Challenges are not obstacles to success; they are the education required for it

[00:41:40] Scrutiny Is a Year-Round Practice * Financial discipline, like meditation, must be built before you need it * When things are going well, the temptation to relax on inventory and cash flow is exactly when you can't afford to * Keep the same critical eye in a strong year as you do in a hard one * How you narrate what you're experiencing is one of the most powerful variables in your outcome

KEY QUOTES "Nobody understands your business better than you do. When you outsource without understanding the fundamentals, you're losing." — Latif Hamilton

"Businesses don't go out of business because they're bad businesses. A lot of times they go out of business because they don't have enough cash flow, and that money is tied up in inventory." — Latif Hamilton

"Short discomfort, long-term growth. Do the right thing even when it costs you, and it pays dividends." — Latif Hamilton

CONNECT WITH LATIF HAMILTON 🌐 Website: https://www.thegrowthoperative.com

👕 SpiritHoods: https://www.spirithoods.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latifhamilton

📝 Substack: https://substack.com/@latifhamilton

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What if uncertainty isn't the problem — it's that you haven't learned to tell the difference between what can change and what can't change?

In this episode, Daniel Burrus, one of the world's leading futurists and a New York Times bestselling author of seven books, shares the framework he has used for four decades to predict technological change with remarkable accuracy. From describing Netflix in 1993 to advising the Department of Defense and Fortune 500 companies on AI strategy, Daniel has built a reputation as someone who doesn't just see what's coming; he teaches others how to see it too.

As CEO of Burrus Research and creator of the Anticipatory Organization model, Daniel's work has one core goal: help people find certainty in an uncertain world so they can make bold moves, presolve problems, and shape their own destiny. And in an age where AI is reshaping every industry, that ability has never been more valuable.

[00:04:40] What He Does and Who He Serves * Runs Burrus Research, a firm monitoring global innovations across AI, robotics, genetics, fiber optics, and more * Has been doing this work for four decades, starting out as a biology and physics teacher * Serves Fortune 500 companies, the Department of Defense, and entrepreneurs worldwide * Works as a translator: takes complex technology trends and makes them actionable for anyone

[00:05:20] The Science of Certainty * Uncertainty causes hesitation; certainty drives bold moves and big decisions * Accurately predicted Netflix, Amazon, and smartphones in his 1993 book Techno Trends * Has authored seven books including New York Times bestseller Flash Foresight and Amazon number one bestseller The Anticipatory Organization * His goal is not just to share trends but to teach a repeatable process anyone can use

[00:08:20] Hard Trends vs. Soft Trends * All trends fall into two categories: hard trends based on future facts that cannot be changed, and soft trends based on assumptions that may or may not happen * Hard trends let you see disruptions before they hit and presolve problems before they occur * Soft trends are changeable; if you don't like one, you can influence it * The litmus test: can this trend be stopped or changed? If not, it is a hard trend

[00:13:40] The Three Categories of Hard Trends * Technology is a hard trend category: wireless went from 3G to 4G to 5G and will keep accelerating * Demographics is a hard trend category: 10,000 Americans turn 70 every single day and that is not reversing * Government regulation around areas like cybersecurity is a hard trend category regardless of the current political climate * Combining two hard trend categories, like demographics and technology, is how low-risk, high-reward innovations are born

[00:15:00] Billion-Dollar Ideas Hidden in Hard Trends * There is currently no easy-launch boat trailer designed for aging seniors, despite a massive and growing market of older boaters * An exoskeleton designed for seniors could prevent the falls that lead to broken hips, one of the leading causes of death in older adults * A small Bluetooth sensor attached to a shoe and linked to a hearing aid could warn seniors of steps, obstacles, and uneven surfaces * All three ideas are grounded in demographic hard trends that are already certain

[00:25:40] The Skip It Principle: Your Problem Is Not Your Problem * Whatever you think your biggest problem is, that is not it; you are working the wrong problem * Drill down by asking why two or three times until you find the real, solvable problem underneath * A drug company CEO thought he needed 2,000 PhD researchers; the real problem was unsolved molecular challenges, solved by crowdsourcing solutions globally online * The makers of Jaws couldn't make the shark look real, so they skipped that problem and showed the shark's perspective instead; the rest is cinema history

[00:33:00] AI: Hard Trend, Not a Threat * AI getting more powerful is a hard trend; it cannot be stopped or reversed * AI gets you 80% of the way to any task fast, but the human 20% is where trust, relationships, creativity, and judgment live * Letting AI do everything makes you obsolete; using it to eliminate busy work frees you to do higher-level, more meaningful work * Think of AI as a magnifier, not a replacer

[00:36:40] What AI Means for CPAs and Every Other Industry * Has been contracted by the global accounting association AICPA to map out what 2040 looks like for the profession * Tax preparation and auditing will be fully automated, but CPAs will not disappear; their role will shift to anticipatory problem solving and trusted advisory * No industry will be decimated; every industry will be redefined and reinvented * The mistake is waiting to be replaced; the opportunity is reinventing yourself now with a more consultative, forward-looking skill set

[00:43:00] Shape Your Own Destiny * Ask yourself what parts of your current work are repetitive and could be handled by AI * Use hard trends to identify what your future role needs to look like, and start learning those things now * Download his free 25 Tech Trends Report at www.25techtrendsreport.com * Download his free AI Strategy Report, with top AI tools across categories and real company case studies, at www.aistrategyreport.com

KEY QUOTES "When you're uncertain, you hesitate. When you have high levels of certainty, you write the big check, you make the bold move." — Daniel Burrus

"AI is not good at establishing trust. AI is not good at relationships. You gotta remember that this is a machine." — Daniel Burrus

"There is more opportunity right now than any other time in history to not just change, but transform every business, product, service and career." — Daniel Burrus

CONNECT WITH DANIEL BURRUS 🌐 Website: https://www.burrus.com

📊 Free Report: https://www.25techtrendsreport.com

🤖 Free Report: https://www.aistrategyreport.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielburrus

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danburrus

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What if everything you've been chasing is already one relationship away?

In this episode, Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew, PhD, shares how over 30 years of community work across Dallas, Texas and the nation shaped her into one of the most sought-after voices on social capital, relational leadership, and community development. As President and CEO of Soulstice Consultancy, she helps health systems, philanthropic organizations, and institutional leaders connect more deeply with the communities they serve.

Froswa' didn't stumble into this work. She built it, role by role, relationship by relationship, from the State Fair of Texas to World Vision US programs to keynote stages at the United Nations and the US State Department. And at the center of it all is a conviction she returns to again and again: relationships are currency, and the right ones change everything.

She shares the story of the man who hired her while she was visibly pregnant and on the verge of bed rest, kept her job for months, and became one of the most formative figures of her career.

[00:03:40] What She Does and Who She Serves * Runs three buckets of work: community engagement strategy, organizational culture and internal social capital, and executive coaching * Serves health systems, large institutional organizations, and philanthropic groups * Has been doing this work since 1995 and returned to full-time consulting four years ago * Rooted in a spiritual belief system, her work always connects leaders to purpose before strategy

[00:07:20] What Inspires Her: Watching Organizations Finally Get It * Loves the moment organizations shift their strategy and start hitting targets they couldn't reach before * Does GIS mapping to help clients identify communities they hadn't thought to connect with * Helped design a workforce program for a health system where participants now graduate, get livable wage jobs, and support their families * The ripple effect of her work reaches people she may never meet, and that drives her every day

[00:09:20] Client Impact: Doubling and Tripling Nonprofit Budgets * Worked with organizations connecting into rural and urban communities where they previously couldn't gain participation * After a year of training and strategy work, those organizations hit their participation targets * Helped design a support services ecosystem around a workforce program, connecting nonprofits to grant writers and partners * Several of those nonprofits went on to double or triple their budgets and scale their staffing and infrastructure

[00:12:00] Making Money and Doing Good Are Not Mutually Exclusive * Pushes back on the idea that profit and community impact are in tension * Believes generosity and thriving business can coexist, pointing to the biblical model of Boaz as an example * Giving is not just financial; time, talent, and testimony are all resources to steward * You can make your community better, profit, take care of your family, and help others all at the same time

[00:15:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Dr. Terry Flowers * Met Dr. Flowers while pregnant and interviewing for a role, after another interview was shut down the moment she disclosed her pregnancy * Dr. Flowers offered her the job knowing she was pregnant, then held the position for her through months of bed rest * At St. Philip's School and Community Center, she learned program development, budget management, relationship building, and community strategy * He gave her one instruction whenever she brought a new idea: figure it out and make it happen

[00:17:40] A Mentor Who Never Left * Left St. Philip's in 2005 but Dr. Flowers remains in her life as a mentor to this day * A former student painted her portrait, which now hangs on the wall at the school * His daughters are still in her life; she had dinner with one of them just recently * She credits his investment of time and wisdom as the foundation for everything she does now

[00:20:20] Paying It Forward: The Story of Misha * Met a young woman named Misha at a speaking event in Dallas and committed to being accessible, because she remembered being shut out early in her own career * Brought Misha on as a volunteer, hired her, and took her along to World Vision and then the State Fair of Texas * Misha eventually became a VP and hired Froswa' as a consultant, then brought her into a new project she had been building for years * That morning, Misha was texting her about an upcoming event, still leaning on her wisdom and knowledge

[00:23:20] Relationships Are Currency * Tells entrepreneurs directly: you don't have a money problem, you have a relationship problem * The right relationships give access to everything you need * Real networking is not passing out cards; it is thinking about how to serve people well * In an AI-driven world, relationships and trust are the most durable currencies anyone can build

KEY QUOTES "You don't have a money problem. You have a relationship problem. You get the right relationships, you'll get access to what you need." — Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

"Anything that you want is usually connected to people. So build relationships and love people well." — Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew

CONNECT WITH DR. FROSWA' BOOKER-DREW 🌐 Website: https://www.drfroswabooker.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/froswabookerdrew

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/froswa.bookerdrew

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What if the most valuable investment you could make isn't in your business, but in the people around it?

In this episode, Lyndsay Dowd shares how nearly 30 years in sales and leadership, including 23 decorated years at IBM, led her to found Heartbeat for Hire, a consultancy helping executives build cultures that actually drive results. She didn't take the easy route to get there. She got fired six months after leaving IBM, sat with the shame of it for a month, and then asked herself three questions that changed everything.

Today Lyndsay coaches C-suite executives, delivers bold keynotes, hosts a top 2.5% globally ranked podcast, and runs a live leadership show on LinkedIn. Her message is simple but radical: the best leadership tool you have is your humanity.

Lyndsay shares how one unexpected LinkedIn connection led to a Harvard lecture, a Times Square billboard, and a personal board of advisors that keeps her grounded as an entrepreneur.

[00:03:40] The IBM Years, the Exit, and the Firing That Changed Everything * Spent 23 of her 25 corporate years climbing the ranks at IBM, leading broken and first-of-a-kind businesses * Left for a new opportunity and was fired just six months later, a total shock for someone known as the person you call to do the hard stuff * I sat with shame for a full month before asking: what am I good at, what do I love, and how can I help people the most? * Those three questions led to the founding of Heartbeat for Hire

[00:05:40] What Heartbeat for Hire Does * Coaches individual leaders and C-suites on modern leadership * Delivers keynotes, has published two books, hosts a top-ranked podcast and a live LinkedIn show * Also runs LinkedIn and storytelling workshops for executives

[00:06:00] What Inspires Her: The Gap Between Bad and Great Leaders * When she asks a room who has had a bad leader, a hundred percent of hands go up instantly * Far fewer hands rise when she asks who has had a great leader * Her mission: show the world what good leadership looks and feels like * Good leadership is not complicated; it is small behavioral changes in language and awareness

[00:09:00] Client Impact: Humanizing the CFO-Turned-CEO * Worked with a CEO who admitted: I think people respect my work, but I don't think they like me * Coached her to welcome every new employee publicly on LinkedIn, a seven-second action with an outsized impact * Taught her to speak about her company the way she would over cocktails, not in boardroom monotone * Core lesson: introduce the personal; leaders no longer need to separate work identity from human identity

[00:14:20] Power Skills: Why Trust Is Your Currency * Rejects the term "soft skills" and calls them power skills instead * Trust is the foundational currency of leadership; fracturing it in front of others reverberates far and wide * Safe spaces unlock inspiration, risk-taking, and people's best work * How a leader handles failure, their own and their team's, is just as important as how they celebrate wins

[00:16:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Scott McGregor and the Outlier Project * Noticed one man kept showing up across all her LinkedIn connections and set up a coffee chat; that man was Scott McGregor * His community, the Outlier Project, brings together roughly 800 entrepreneurs, veterans, athletes, and leaders choosing to live extraordinary lives * Has since brought over 70 people into the community herself

[00:17:00] What the Outlier Project Unlocked * Opportunities flowed from the community: a Harvard lecture, a Times Square billboard, and appearances on over 100 podcasts * Her entire personal board of advisors is made up of Outliers, the people she calls when she doubts herself * The community solved the loneliness of entrepreneurship when family and friends couldn't understand what she was building * Members share best practices on podcasting and speaking, and get direct access to legends like Guy Kawasaki every week

[00:19:40] The Mavericks and Hustlers: Her Most Memorable Leadership Moment * A leader who promoted her twice asked: how do you want to run the business? And meant it * She took that autonomy back to her team and launched a storytelling program: explain what you sell with zero jargon, as if speaking to a retired school teacher * The first story sparked immediate collaboration, with salespeople realizing they had solutions their clients were already asking for * The program grew to 500 attendees per call, and that team still calls her years later to talk about it

[00:24:20] Lead with Heart Because Results Depend on It * Leadership done well isn't about feeling good; it's about generating results * Her storytelling team crushed their numbers quarter after quarter because they had trust and psychological safety * Churn-and-burn leadership signals to your team that burnout is expected, and they will follow your model * Simple reminder: take a breath before reacting, and always lead with heart

KEY QUOTES "I don't call them soft skills. I call them power skills. Creating trust and creating psychological safety is a power skill, and the best leaders understand that trust is your currency." — Lyndsay Dowd

"When you become somebody's leader, you become the topic of dinner conversation. So you better be thinking about every move you make." — Lyndsay Dowd

"If you wanna 10x your results, start leading with heart. That's the big difference maker." — Lyndsay Dowd

CONNECT WITH LYNDSAY DOWD 🌐 Website: http://www.heartbeatforhire.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndsaydowdh4h

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lyndsaydowd

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndsaydowdh4h

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lyndsaydowdh4h

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What if every client you've ever landed traced back not to a cold email, but to a conversation you had years ago with someone you genuinely cared about?

In this episode, Don Martelli shares how a career that began in the newsrooms of the Boston Globe evolved into a mission-driven PR and strategic communications consultancy built entirely on relationship equity. As CEO of the PR Bunker, Don works exclusively with health and human services organizations, nonprofits, and healthcare and education clients whose work makes a real difference in people's lives.

Don spent over 25 years in PR, strategic communications, and marketing across agencies of every size, growing one from $1.5M to $6-8M in revenue before deciding to burn the boat and build something of his own. Six years into running the PR Bunker, he hasn't made a cold call or chased an RFP since, and he has no plans to start.

Don shares how three men shaped everything he knows about showing up, slowing down, and paying it forward in business.

[00:03:40] From Reporter to PR Guy: What Don Does and Who He Serves * CEO of the PR Bunker, a mission-driven PR and strategic communications agency * Former journalist at the Boston Globe covering business and politics * Serves nonprofits, healthcare, and human services organizations with one filter: do they have a big heart? * Work centers on storytelling across media, marketing, and donor engagement channels

[00:05:00] Why He Finally Started His Own Company * Spent years growing agencies for other people, including taking one from $1.5M to $6-8M in revenue * Tried and failed to buy the agency he helped build * Reached a crossroads in his mid-to-late forties and asked: what have I actually built that's mine? * Had one honest conversation with his wife, burned the boat, and launched the PR Bunker six years ago

[00:06:40] The Impact That Keeps Him Going * Partnered with Hearth, a Boston nonprofit fighting elder homelessness * Pitched a reporter a story about Lisa, a formerly homeless woman who now works for the organization * Turned that one story into a 2.5-week marketing campaign that generated $225,000 in anonymous donations * This is the kind of full-circle storytelling that drives everything he does

[00:08:00] 100% Word of Mouth: How Don Builds Business * No cold calls, no cold emails, no RFPs * Built entirely on networking, one-on-one conversations, and what he calls "relationship equity" * Every interaction is about asking: how can I help you? Who do you want to meet? * Treats his network not as a stack of business cards but as a living, monetizable asset

[00:12:00] The First Relationship That Changed Everything: Peter Morrissey * Don's first PR boss after leaving the Boston Globe, one of the OGs of Boston PR * Taught Don the fundamentals: how to dress, how to read a room, how to pitch a story * Helped Don understand what a media pitch was and how to manage his own workflow and accountability

[00:13:40] "Efficiency Over Speed": The Sticky Note That Stuck * Don made a major mistake at work and Peter walked over, wrote four words on a sticky note, and put it on his screen: efficiency over speed * Don didn't fully grasp it in his twenties but carried it with him his entire career * Now passes that same note and story on to every person he mentors * Has since stuck the same note on the desks of people under him when he sees rushed, sloppy work

[00:16:40] His Father: The Original Pay-It-Forward Guy * Lost his father at just 56 years old * At the wake, the funeral home had to extend hours by 90 minutes because of how long the line was * That moment revealed how many lives his father had quietly touched through service, generosity, and community * Realized he was cut from the same cloth — his father had the attributes of both Peter and Ed

[00:17:40] Batman and Robin: Ed Caso and the Art of the Story * Ed Caso was the number two at Peter's agency — the hardened complement to Peter's nurturing style * Taught Don the discipline of knowing what is and isn't news * Much of Don's crisis communications work today traces directly back to what he learned from Ed * Peter and Ed together were like Batman and Robin: different styles, one outcome

[00:19:20] Full Circle: Passing the Torch * Half an hour before recording, received a call from a former mentee named Evan * Evan had spent five years building his network, launched his own successful company, and called Don just to say thank you * The lesson Don passed on was the same one Peter gave him: "efficiency over speed" and "your network is your net worth" * Also mentoring a 22-year-old named Elijah, who just hit $2M in revenue before graduation by focusing exclusively on relationship-based selling

KEY QUOTES "Efficiency over speed. I sat on that. And I said, "What does it really mean?" — Don Martelli

"Your network is not this thing where you collect business cards that sit in your desk drawer. It's really an asset. It's a part of your business." — Don Martelli

CONNECT WITH DON MARTELLI

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donmartelli

🌐 Website: http://www.prbunker.com

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What if the key to transforming an entire organization started with the same foundation you learned in kindergarten?

Marcia Martin is one of the most prolific influencers in thought leadership over the last 40 years. Renowned as a top transformational trainer and executive coach worldwide, she has provided training for global organizations in over 20 countries. Her clients include Capital One, Warner Bros., InterContinental Hotels, American Cancer Society, Chase Bank, Allianz, McCain Foods, Evian Water, Danone Group, and Hard Rock International.

A pioneer of the human potential movement, Marcia served as Vice President and Board Member of Erhard Seminars Training, now known as the Landmark Forum, helping grow its graduate base from inception to millions within a decade. She has consulted for LifeSpring, Robbins Research, Jack Canfield Seminars, Wealth Dynamics, and the Money and You Seminars, and notably organized the film shoot of The Secret: Law of Attraction with Executive Producer Rhonda Byrne. Her memoir, Sex, Power and Transformation, is available now on Amazon.

[00:04:00] At the Birth of the Human Potential Movement

• Marcia was present at the very beginning of the human potential movement in San Francisco in 1971
• Left the University of Washington at 20 for a spiritual quest during the era of the flower children and Haight-Ashbury
• Apprenticed with her aunt, a clairvoyant healer and esoteric astrologist, who taught her to go inward for answers
• That training shaped her core belief: answers come from within, not from outside of yourself

[00:06:00] Werner Erhard and the EST Years

• Attended Werner Erhard's very first guest seminar and recognized his message as aligned with what her aunt had taught her
• Joined the team and became Senior Vice President of EST, helping grow it from 30 people to over 800,000 graduates
• Was responsible for marketing, sales, training guest seminar leaders, and filling all events
• Learned both what to do and what not to do by watching how fame and wealth changed people up close

[00:11:00] Organizing the Film Shoot for The Secret

• Co-created the Transformational Leadership Council with Jack Canfield, bringing together top thought leaders and coaches
• Received a call from Rhonda Byrne, an Australian TV producer, asking to film the group for what became The Secret
• Ended up organizing the entire film shoot, squeezed into a tiny borrowed office at her country club in Aspen, Colorado
• Rhonda's skill in editing made the cramped shoot look cinematic

[00:19:00] The Night Werner Put Her in Front of 2,500 People

• Marcia started out speaking to guests on the edge of a bed in a bedroom; groups grew to 20, then 50, then hundreds
• The day of a major 2,500-person event, Werner told her she would be leading it instead of him
• She refused, panicked, and was furious; her largest audience to that point had been 150 people
• His advice: find one person in the crowd, look at them, and remember how much you love them

[00:24:00] Empowerment Over Micromanagement

• Werner's decision to trust Marcia with that event became the defining lesson of her leadership philosophy
• Most senior executives she works with today are micromanagers who unwittingly signal they don't trust their people
• Her belief: if a leader is micromanaging, it is not just a lack of trust in others but a lack of trust in themselves
• True empowerment means giving people room to make mistakes and grow into their potential

[00:27:00] The ABCs of Leadership: Her Three-Day Transformation

• Marcia's flagship offering is a three-day intensive for senior leadership teams of entrepreneurial organizations
• Covers leadership, championship performance, communication mastery, relationships, confidence, mindset, and causing action
• Mentored by Buckminster Fuller, Peter Drucker, Jerry Weintraub, and Werner Erhard; she now passes those lessons on

KEY QUOTES

"So many human beings look outside of themselves to find answers. We haven't been taught how to go within and connect with our own higher power." - Marcia Martin

"Werner was smart enough to give me the room and the empowerment to get it done. He didn't micromanage me, he trusted me and he made a good bet on me." - Marcia Martin

"I've figured out the concepts, the fundamentals, the ABCs of leadership and championship performance, and put them together in a way that is fun." - Marcia Martin

CONNECT WITH MARCIA MARTIN

🌐 Website: www.marciamartin.com

📚 Book: Sex, Power and Transformation — available on Amazon

💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marcia-martin-

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/marciamartinproductions

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What if the frustration of a college student with a phone bill became the seed of a company serving 10 million people?

Derek Ting is a multifaceted entrepreneur and filmmaker, known as the co-founder and CEO of telecom company TextNow, offering free mobile services, and also as an actor, director, and writer of action films like Agent Recon, starring alongside Chuck Norris. A native of New York with roots in Hong Kong, he splits his time between LA and HK, blending tech innovation with entertainment..

In this episode, Derek shares the relationships that shaped his path, from a mother who sacrificed to give him access to the right environment, to a sixth-grade friend who introduced him to computers and investing, to the one investor who said yes when everyone else said no. His story is a masterclass in building something meaningful from the ground up.

[00:03:00] Who Is Derek Ting?

• Co-founder and CEO of TextNow, a free phone service app
• Started the company 16 years ago as a college student tired of paying for phone service
• Currently serves 10 million monthly users

[00:04:00] The Birth of TextNow

• The first iPhone charged separately for texting, calling, and data; Derek saw a better way
• Aha moment: users were turning iPod touches into phones because they couldn't afford service
• Recruited a college classmate to build out the full product; he became co-founder

[00:05:20] Phone Service Is a Necessity, Not a Luxury

• Many users had no other way to communicate with friends and family
• You need a phone number to book a doctor's appointment or apply for a job
• That realization turned a texting app into a much bigger mission

[00:07:40] From Hobby to Business: The Early App Store Days

• The iPhone SDK let anyone, including college students, build and sell software for the first time
• First app: a daily recipe app for a dollar; then a lemonade stand video game
• TextNow grew from that same spirit of building things to solve his own problems

[00:12:40] Cashflow Crisis and the Last Door He Knocked On

• Reinvested everything into carrier infrastructure, wiping out profit, then ran out of cash
• Knocked on every VC door in Canada in 2011 and collected rejection after rejection
• Remembered a man whose niece was a customer and who had mentioned he was a VC
• Reached out, met him at a conference, played it cool, and closed the deal; he is still a shareholder today

[00:17:40] Where TextNow Is Headed

• Mission from day one: make phone service completely free
• The flywheel: more free value drives more users, more advertisers, and more revenue to fund more features
• Customer base is diverse: young people, those in financial rough patches, anyone needing a second line

[00:20:40] The Relationship That Started Everything: His Mom

• Derek's biggest influence is his mother, a Hong Kong immigrant who prioritized his education above everything
• She stretched her finances to move him from public to private school in sixth grade
• That decision changed his peer group and opened doors he never would have found otherwise

[00:22:00] The Sixth-Grade Friend Who Sparked It All

• At private school Derek met a friend who was already building computers and buying stocks in sixth grade
• He learned about technology and economics simply by spending time around him
• Without that friendship, Derek believes he would never have ended up in tech or business

KEY QUOTES

"Phone service is expensive and it's actually not a luxury. It's a necessity. You need it to get a doctor's appointment, to apply for a job." - Derek Ting

"I was running out of doors to knock on. The last door I knocked on became the door that worked out." - Derek Ting

CONNECT WITH DEREK TING

🌐 TextNow: www.textnow.com

💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/derekting

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/derekting

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What if a near-death experience was the thing that finally showed you what your life was really for?

Tino Dietrich is a visionary entrepreneur, Inc. 500 honoree, and certified Mindvalley coach with a track record of building and scaling global businesses. As the founder and CEO of SNYDER Americas, he is spearheading the U.S. expansion of a premium German-engineered golf ball brand, disrupting the industry with innovation and precision.

Tino also leads the Dietrich Institute, a coaching and consulting powerhouse dedicated to empowering high-achieving professionals to master personal growth, build thriving relationships, and leave lasting legacies.

A former collegiate golfer at Syracuse University, Tino combines discipline, resilience, and strategic insight to inspire others to overcome adversity and create purpose-driven lives. His upcoming book, a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, explores themes of resilience, legacy, and living with intention.

[00:04:20] Who Is Tino Dietrich?

• Serial entrepreneur, Inc. 500 honoree, and certified Mindvalley coach based in the U.S. after relocating from Germany 13 years ago
• Founder and CEO of SNYDER Americas and the Dietrich Institute
• Coaches entrepreneurs and business owners to become better versions of themselves, with a focus on relationships and family
• Believes the challenges we face are determined by the choices we make, and that the right people help us make better ones

[00:06:40] The ICU Moment That Changed Everything

• After contracting COVID, Tino's health rapidly deteriorated while his family recovered
• Was rushed to the emergency room, then the ICU, and placed on an ECMO machine to oxygenate his blood
• A priest was called to read him his last rites; that was the moment he realized how serious things were
• In the ICU, he reflected and realized he had been missing his purpose, focused on building companies but not on why
• He begged for a second chance to make a first impression and got it, returning home days later

[00:10:20] Finding Purpose After a Near-Death Experience

• After surviving COVID, Tino lost 90 pounds and radically reassessed his life
• Realized his purpose was to coach entrepreneurs and business owners who had been in similar situations
• Focused his work on relationships, marriage, and family, noting that the divorce rate among entrepreneurs is even higher than the national average
• His mission: slow down the divorce clock and help people turn their houses into homes
• Recognized he had been living in a house, not a home, and that his family helped him turn that around

[00:18:00] The People Who Shape You: Positive and Negative

• Tino credits a wide collection of people, not just one, for shaping who he is
• Learned in the hospital that some people who appear to be friends are not
• Believes you must understand what you truly want, not what others want for you, before you can see clearly who belongs in your life
• Is grateful for both the people who helped him and those who did not; both shaped his direction
• His late mother, a single mom who rose from selling curtains on a market stall in Hamburg to becoming one of the most influential people in the German steel industry in the seventies and eighties, was his greatest inspiration

[00:21:00] The Mentor Who Unlocked His Path

• After college, Tino was introduced to a mentor who had become Chief Marketing Officer for Danone (then BSN), responsible for Eastern European expansion
• Tino told him he was not a marketing person; the mentor replied that this proved Tino did not yet know what marketing was, and insisted he come work for him
• Tino worked in marketing for three months, then went on to Colgate Palmolive in Mexico in finance
• The experience changed his trajectory: he returned to Syracuse and majored in international marketing and management
• That mentor later became his business partner; Tino credits him with opening his eyes to his own strengths and purpose

[00:26:20] Ikigai and the Concept of Purpose

• Tino connects his near-death clarity to the Japanese concept of ikigai: the intersection of what you are good at, what the world needs, and how you can make it happen
• Believes everyone has unique talents, but most people never slow down enough to identify them
• Encourages listeners to dig deeper into ikigai as a framework for living with intention
• The most important relationship in your life is the one you have with yourself; everything else changes when that one improves

KEY QUOTES

"The challenges we face are determined by the choices we make. And the people who helped me through the different phases of my life helped me to make some very good choices." - Tino Dietrich

"The most important relationship in your life is the one you have with yourself. If you understand that and you work on that, things will begin to change around you." - Tino Dietrich

CONNECT WITH TINO DIETRICH

🌐 Website: www.dietrichinstitute.com/mdr

💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tinodietrich

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/tinodietrichcoaching

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What if the most powerful business strategy you could ever use isn't a strategy at all, but a lifelong commitment to showing up for people?

Frank Carone is a seasoned legal and political strategist and the founder of Oaktree Solutions, where he guides businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs through complex challenges at the intersection of law, regulation, and politics. With over three decades of experience as a lawyer and litigator, Frank has built a reputation for navigating the most intricate corridors of power in New York and beyond.

Frank served as Chief of Staff to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a role he describes as one of the greatest privileges of his life. He co-authored Everyone Wins!: The Ultimate Guide to Optimize Your Business Relationships and Achieve Financial Freedom, with an expanded second edition releasing in early 2025, and sits on the boards of the Central Park Conservancy and the Museum of Modern Art.

A proud Brooklyn native, Marine Corps veteran, and father of two, Frank shares the relationship principles and pivotal people who shaped everything he has built, from a napkin idea in a Brooklyn neighborhood to the halls of New York City government.

[00:04:00] Who Is Frank Carone?

• Founder of Oaktree Solutions, navigating law, regulation, and politics for businesses and nonprofits
• 31 years as a lawyer and litigator, plus decades in politics and government
• Served as Chief of Staff to NYC Mayor Eric Adams
• Co-authored Everyone Wins! with Russ Prince to make relationship-building learnable

[00:05:20] Oaktree Solutions: Navigating Legal, Regulatory, and Political Complexity

• After 31 years as a lawyer and litigator, Frank found his greatest value at the intersection of law, regulation, and politics
• Most industries are highly regulated; clients need someone who can interpret, navigate, and advocate across all three environments
• Oaktree Solutions workshops problems and creates value for both paying clients and the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors
• Frank's approach: don't limit access to those who can afford it; some of the most important relationship seeds are planted pro bono

[00:08:00] Deep Listening as a Business Strategy

• Frank makes it a habit to understand clients' business objectives, fears, obstacles, and past experiences, not just their goals
• Listening takes patience and requires setting aside ego; the point is to extract information that leads to the best service
• When clients feel genuinely heard, they return on a routine basis and refer others without prompting
• Giving people the gift of feeling seen, heard, and understood is one of the most powerful things a relationship-builder can do

[00:12:00] Growing Up in Brooklyn: The Roots of Grit and Credibility

• Grew up in Canarsie, Brooklyn, where grit and credibility were non-negotiable
• Sold newspapers, flowers, and candy on the el train as a boy; later sold his comic book collection to help fund law school
• His father taught him to learn from both successes and failures
• Coach Bobby Napo challenged him to aim higher than a civil service job

[00:15:40] The Marine Corps and the Art of Perseverance

• Received a Marine Corps recruiter's call meant for his younger brother and ended up applying himself
• Was disqualified due to childhood asthma; Captain Samuels fought the appeal alongside him and won
• Graduated from Officer Candidate School as a second lieutenant
• Marine training reframed his standards: bar exam prep in a library felt easy by comparison

[00:17:40] Frank Seto and the Decision That Changed Everything

• Frank Seto was a family friend and future assemblyman who let a young Frank sell Christmas trees outside his home
• Frank turned to him when choosing between an honorable discharge and a law firm partnership offer
• Seto's advice: whatever decision you make will be the right one
• That single sentence removed regret from Frank's decision-making permanently; he has never looked back since

[00:20:40] The Relationship That Moved a City: Mayor Eric Adams

• Eric Adams came to Frank's office as Brooklyn Borough President asking for his support in a mayoral run
• Frank activated political, labor, and business relationships to build the campaign coalition
• Adams was far behind in the polls; the campaign turned it around through relationship capital
• None of it would have been possible without decades of trust built in advance

[00:24:20] Brother Anthony and the Power of Long-Term Loyalty

• Frank's assistant Jen has been with him for 20 years across multiple businesses
• His brother Anthony joined his mortgage banking venture from day one
• When Frank left for City Hall, Anthony gave up his own firm to hold the client base together
• Anthony now runs Oaktree Solutions as CEO

[00:26:40] Credibility, Authenticity, and Playing the Long Game

• Credibility and authenticity are the two words Frank returns to again and again
• You cannot have credibility without authenticity; it is the baseline
• Real credibility means admitting when you are wrong and pivoting when you have to
• His advice: do not burn bridges, admit mistakes, and embrace relationships rather than just collecting them

[00:29:00] Russ Prince and the Everyone Wins Framework

• Frank cold-emailed Russ Prince after seeing his name in a book foreword; Russ responded in seconds
• They connected immediately and Russ has workshopped problems with Frank ever since
• Together they co-authored Everyone Wins! to make relationship-building accessible to anyone
• Frank's belief: building million dollar relationships is a learnable process, not a personality trait

KEY QUOTES

"The skillset necessary to build million dollar relationships that stand the test of time can be learned." - Frank Carone

"I don't think you could have credibility without authenticity. Authenticity may be the line in the sand. In order to have real credibility, you need authenticity." - Frank Carone

"None of us are really here on an island. Most people's success comes through a collection of relationships. So embrace them, don't just collect them and push them aside." - Frank Carone

CONNECT WITH FRANK CARONE

🌐 Website: www.frankcarone.com

📚 Book: www.EveryoneWinsBook.com

🏢 Oaktree Solutions: www.oaktree.solutions

💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/frank-carone-57477910

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/frank.carone.3

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What if the secret to saving a mission wasn't a merger but building something big enough to protect it?

In this episode, Ryan Dewey Smith shares how frustration with traditional merger models led him to incorporate Inperium on January 12, 2016, from a firehouse office in Reading, Pennsylvania. What started as a bold experiment in nonprofit consolidation has since grown into a constellation of 34 companies across 20 states, approaching $1 billion in annualized revenue and serving roughly 300,000 people a month. Inperium operates as a behind-the-scenes parent organization providing capital, HR, IT, finance, and general administrative services at scale, driving costs down so that affiliated organizations can invest more into the people they serve.

Ryan honors Jay Depper, his Chief Development Officer and the man whose early belief in the model set the trajectory for Inperium's first five years. Met through a broker just nine months after incorporation, Jay came in as a potential affiliate CEO and stayed as a partner. Their relationship survived a three-year disconnection following a post-COVID disagreement, was restored over four days in Ryan's home, and has since produced four new deals in a single year.

[00:03:46] What Inperium Does and Who It Serves

• Aggregator and orchestrator of behavioral health and human service organizations across four primary service areas
• Currently 34 companies across 20 states serving roughly 300,000 people a month
• Behind-the-scenes parent providing capital, HR, IT, finance, and G&A at scale so affiliated organizations can invest more into the people they serve

[00:05:34] How Ryan Got Into This Work

• Started his first company in 1993 in the intellectual and developmental disability space and grew it for nearly two and a half decades to $65M in revenue
• Hit a crossroads where rising costs were outpacing their ability to serve their population
• Explored traditional mergers and acquisitions in 2014 and 2015; found every option reduced autonomy and stripped organizations of community standing
• Created Inperium as an alternative: scale the back office, protect the mission, keep the culture

[00:08:11] Incorporated January 12, 2016

• Organizations keep their own boards, cultures, leadership, assets, contracts, and community standing
• Philanthropic dollars stay with the organizations rather than being absorbed by a parent
• Just over 10 years later: nearly $1 billion in revenues, 34 companies, 20 states

[00:09:04] What Inspires Ryan Most

• Every new partner added to the constellation drives costs down for existing partners and brings new subject matter expertise, geography, and service acumen
• Serves populations that are in most cases underserved with limited alternatives
• Calls it "impact squared" and then some

[00:10:13] Saving Resources for Human Development

• Last major transaction closed December 2025: Resources for Human Development, founded 1970, on the brink of insolvency with bank loans called and 1,800 jobs at risk
• In six months, Inperium recapitalized the business, retired the debt, and moved it into tax-exempt public municipal markets
• Reduced general and administrative costs from nearly 25 cents on the dollar to 9 cents on the dollar
• Organization is now solvent, growing, and expanding into new geographies

[00:13:25] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Jay Depper

• Met Jay Depper in September 2016, just nine months after incorporation, through broker Kevin Fee
• Jay was CEO of Edison Court in Bucks County, PA; affiliated with Inperium and spent the next four years building the model together
• Jay's early adoption and belief in the concept set the trajectory for Inperium's first five years of growth
• After COVID, the two disagreed on direction and Jay resigned; they disconnected personally and professionally for three years

[00:15:30] Four Days That Rebuilt a Partnership

• Over a year ago, Ryan brought Jay to his home for a four-day in-person meeting to unpack everything before agreeing to move forward
• Jay returned as full-time Chief Development Officer; together they consummated four deals in the year since his return
• Ryan describes their dynamic as "an unstoppable force" in developing Inperium

[00:16:27] Scaling to $2-3 Billion: The Vision

• Plan to expand from four to roughly ten total services verticals including higher education and arts
• Goal is to drive back office costs to 5 or 6 cents on the dollar at that scale, down from 9 cents today
• Agnostic to size, geography, and services; evaluates all comers and starts with yes

[00:20:14] First Deal Outside Pennsylvania

• Inperium started Pennsylvania-centric; first out-of-state deal closed in New Jersey, followed by Raleigh, North Carolina
• North Carolina was the epiphany: proof of concept beyond the Commonwealth, now operating in 20 states
• Nothing preventing expansion to all 50 states; already has 13 companies in Pennsylvania alone collaborating across service spaces

KEY QUOTES

"People are paying attention. People are showing that there's proof in this concept. That was an epiphany for me that this is bigger than just Harrisburg to Philadelphia." - Ryan Dewey Smith

"Our assets remained ours. Our contracts remained ours. Our legacy was insulated from a business combination. That's what I did." - Ryan Dewey Smith

"We start with yes. Our business is built around adding business partners that are accretive to our constellation." - Ryan Dewey Smith

CONNECT WITH RYAN DEWEY SMITH

🌐 Personal Website: https://www.ryandeweysmith.com

🌐 Inperium: http://www.inperium.org

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-dewey-smith/

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What if the most important relationship in your business isn't with your biggest client but with the person sitting right next to you in the leadership seat?

In this episode, Clayton Stenson shares how 17 years of working alongside visionary entrepreneurs became the foundation for his life's work: helping Visionary/Integrator duos build healthier partnerships so their companies can scale without costing them their families or their sanity. Clayton is the founder of Unity Guides, a fractional integrator, and a coach who has spent the last four years helping visionary entrepreneurs and their second-in-command learn to understand each other, communicate better, and stop the quiet resentment that ends partnerships and careers. He also spent seven years as a pastor, giving him a front-row seat to the human side of leadership: the pride, the blind spots, and the breakthroughs.

Clayton honors four people who shaped his journey: the church pastor-turned-visionary who gave him his first leadership opportunity and introduced him to faith; the second visionary who handed him the book Traction and trusted him to run a company; and two long-time friends, James and Dwayne, who showed up as sounding boards, believers, and emergency intervention callers whenever Clayton was about to walk away from everything he had built.

[00:02:37] Fractional Integrator and V/I Duo Coach

• Does two things: fractional integrator/COO for EOS companies at $5-20M revenue
• Coaches visionary entrepreneurs and their second-in-command on their working relationship
• Runs webinars, workshops, and programs to help the V/I Duo work better together
• Eight years in the integrator role; four years coaching the V/I relationship

[00:04:28] How Clayton Got Into This Work

• Never went to school for business; has a phys ed degree
• Fell into an integrator-type role naturally by solving whatever the organization needed
• Kept getting more responsibility and influence as he solved structural and operational problems
• Second visionary handed him the book Traction and formally gave him the integrator seat

[00:06:43] Took a Company From 0.2% to 4.4% Profitability

• Company was $8M revenue, 20 employees, just 0.2% profitable
• Promoted to integrator and began self-implementing EOS
• Within 12 months improved profitability to 4.4%, a strong benchmark in commercial construction
• Zero turnover during the transition; people engaged and excited for the changes

[00:08:34] What Drives Clayton Most

• Spent seven years wanting to quit every month under his first visionary, feeling unseen and misunderstood
• That experience drives him to help integrators avoid the same pain
• Believes healthy leaders create healthy teams, which ripples out to families and communities
• Not about profitability; it's about the people

[00:11:00] The V/I Relationship Is Like a Marriage

• Visionaries: idea-driven, sales-focused, big-picture thinkers and relationship builders
• Integrators: logical, process-oriented, detailed, strong at running day-to-day operations
• Friction between them is normal but must be navigated intentionally
• Most companies running on EOS deal with this dynamic regularly

[00:13:00] First Transformational Relationship: The Church Pastor-Visionary

• Pastor of his church became his first visionary and gave him his first office job
• Through that relationship, Clayton came to faith
• Was given leadership responsibility he hadn't yet earned and rose to it
• Seven challenging but transformative years that made everything else possible

[00:15:04] Second Transformational Relationship: The Second Visionary

• Introduced Clayton to the book Traction and the Entrepreneurial Operating System
• Trusted Clayton completely: "I suck at this stuff. I know you'll be good at it"
• Left Clayton to run the company while he went to fix another struggling business
• Taught him that costly mistakes are just "tuition," lessons that change you permanently

[00:18:00] James: Ten Years of Biweekly Coffee

• Met every second week for coffee for ten years through multiple job changes and life seasons
• Some nights all about James; next week all about Clayton, true mutual support
• Developed depth of relationship that still feels effortless even when months pass
• Currently in discussions about potentially buying businesses together

[00:19:30] Dwayne: The Guy Who Wouldn't Let Clayton Quit

• Long-time friend with a similar role who has been a consistent sounding board for a decade
• When Clayton texted "I think I'm gonna get a job," Dwayne responded: "No. Emergency intervention meeting. What are you doing tonight?"
• Talked Clayton back from the edge multiple times in the hardest early seasons of his business
• Also in discussions about potentially working together

[00:22:00] Iron Sharpens Iron: A Coaching Breakthrough

• Integrator came to Clayton frustrated and ready to give up on his visionary
• Clayton recognized his own story in what the integrator was describing
• Went straight to his visionary, apologized, and owned it; relationship began to shift immediately
• Visionary called Clayton the following week asking him to coach them together

[00:28:04] Where to Find Clayton and What He Offers

• Website: theunityguide.com
• Active on LinkedIn and quick to respond
• Launching a podcast specifically interviewing people about the V/I relationship
• Webinar for integrators: The Silent Struggle of the Integrator from Frustration to Fulfillment

[00:29:48] The Power of Critical Thinking in Relationships

• Took a Critical Thinking course in university that changed how he processes people and situations
• Believes ability to see the other side of a situation is becoming rare and it's costing relationships
• Challenge: before reacting, ask why this person might be showing up this way
• Good questions asked with humility solve more problems than unsolicited advice ever will

KEY QUOTES

"In my experience, your company, the people in your company, become like the leaders. If I can help create healthier leaders and healthier relationships at the top, it creates healthier people throughout the organization, which then ripples out to the families and communities those people live in." - Clayton Stenson

"A lot of problems can be solved just by humbling ourselves, listening, and asking good questions." - Clayton Stenson

CONNECT WITH CLAYTON STENSON

🌐 Website: https://www.theunityguide.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theunityguide

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claytonstenson

🎙️ The Unity Rock Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Q5pa7FzFMuDhRvHcVP6Ge?si=1pF4_kzZTgKq14vPOAqDUA

🎙️ The Unity Rock Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ng/podcast/the-unity-rock-podcast/id1873605230

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What if the person who transformed your entire career is also someone you haven't spoken to in seven years?

In this episode, Ryan Ellefsen shares how he helps businesses take credit cards, lower processing fees, and protect their revenue as VP of EasyPay Direct, a merchant services company he recently joined after 20 years in the industry. EasyPay serves coaches, consultants, speakers, and internet marketers, processing payments for names like Tony Robbins, Grant Cardone, and Frank Kern across 34 US locations. Ryan built his career expertise under the mentorship of Steve Thorne, CEO of NMR (National Marketing Resources), eventually rising from Processing Manager to VP and co-building what became Platinum Payment Systems. Today, Ryan is known for his transparent, relationship-first approach to merchant services — always insisting on a face-to-face conversation before onboarding any client, no matter how small.

Ryan honors Steve Thorne, the man who hired him at $70,000/year when he was making $23,400 as a Spanish teacher in Utah. Phil Smith introduced Ryan to Steve while both were in an MBA program, and Steve believed in Ryan enough to bring him into NMR, where Ryan spent 10 transformative years climbing from Processing Manager all the way to VP. Under Steve's roof, Ryan co-built a merchant processing company that eventually merged into Platinum Payment Systems.

[00:03:41] Reconnected Through a Mutual Friend

• Kevin and Ryan originally met years ago at Genius Network
• Recently reconnected via mutual friend Anthony Simon through an email introduction
• Neither realized in the intro email that they already knew each other

[00:03:51] VP of EasyPay Direct: What He Does and Who He Serves

• Merchant services company helping businesses accept credit cards and get funding
• Specializes in the coach, consultant, speaker, author, and internet marketing space
• Serves major names like Tony Robbins, Grant Cardone, and Frank Kern
• Recently joined after 20 years in the industry; he and CEO Brad Weimert were friendly competitors for two decades

[00:05:04] EasyPay vs. PayPal: The Key Difference

• PayPal is better for card-present transactions like retail stores
• EasyPay specializes in card-not-present, high-risk: coaching, big-ticket packages, phone sales
• High-risk means future fulfillment over time, high-ticket pricing, sold over the phone
• Premier company in the country for internet marketing and coaching businesses

[00:07:55] What Inspires Ryan Most: Giving People a Fair Deal

• Has an affinity for the person being ripped off by hidden fees
• Philosophy: everybody can win — a 10-year relationship beats a 6-month windfall
• Sometimes helps small businesses where he makes almost nothing — and loves it
• Tries to learn something from every single conversation

[00:13:02] How EasyPay Lowers Your Rates Over Time

• EasyPay has its own gateway to manage multiple banks from a single login
• Uses Level 3 Advantage and tokenization to lower interchange rates
• Can lower interchange by up to 75 basis points (0.75%)
• EasyPay's margin stays fixed; all savings go directly to the client

[00:18:40] The Industry's Dirty Secret: Watch Your Statements

• Processors can legally raise your rates by burying notice in statement fine print
• Not calling to cancel is considered acceptance of new terms
• They raise rates 5 –10 basis points at a time.
• Visa changes rates every six months and they go up more often than down

[00:26:15] Started as a Spanish Teacher Making $23,400 a Year

• Graduated college, went on a church mission to South America from 1991 to 1993
• Came back, majored in Spanish teaching, played sports, had fun
• First teaching job in Utah in 1997 paid $23,400/year
• Started a carpet cleaning business in school that eventually made 10x his teaching salary

[00:28:00] Phil Smith Introduces Ryan to Steve Thorne

• Met Phil Smith in his MBA cohort
• Phil introduced him to Steve Thorne, CEO of NMR (National Marketing Resources) in Kearney, Missouri
• Steve hired Ryan as Processing Manager at $70,000/year nearly triple his teaching salary
• His bonus in year two was bigger than his entire teaching salary

[00:29:05] Ten Years at NMR: From Manager to VP

• Progressed from Processing Manager → Director → Managing Director → VP
• NMR and sister company PMI did infomercial production for Dean Graziosi, Anthony Morrison, and others
• Did hundreds of millions in coaching and big-ticket event sales
• Ryan pitched starting a merchant processing company; Steve challenged him to make it a million-dollar idea.

[00:30:31] When a Great Relationship Fractures

• Ryan and Steve haven't spoken in seven years following a lawsuit
• Ended in a no-fault settlement — neither side got what they wanted
• Ryan still considers Steve one of the best, most honest people he's ever met
• "If he ever catches wind of this podcast… I would welcome that"

[00:35:20] What Steve's Mentorship Still Looks Like Today

• After the split, became VP of a digital marketing company within 6 months
• Core lesson from Steve: how to treat people with genuine sincerity
• "Nobody who's ever met Steve Thorn dislikes Steve Thorn"
• Attributes his versatility and confidence across industries entirely to Steve's tutelage

KEY QUOTES

"My philosophy is that everybody can win. If you can set up a relationship that makes some money for the next 10 years, that's way better than a relationship that makes you a whole bunch of money for six months." - Ryan Ellefsen

"Steve Thorn transformed my life. If he hadn't given me that opportunity, I wouldn't be where I am today and I wouldn't have what I have today." - Ryan Ellefsen

"Nobody who's ever met Steve Thorn dislikes Steve Thorn. He's sincere. He's a good guy and he just knows how to treat people. And so I learned a lot from him in that regard." - Ryan Ellefsen

CONNECT WITH RYAN ELLEFSEN

🌐 EasyPay Direct: http://www.easypaydirect.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanellefsen

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.ellefsen.2025

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What if workplace conflict is not something to avoid, but the very path to healing and high performance? In this episode, Susan Winchester shares how a 36-year corporate HR career evolved into a purpose-driven executive coaching and consulting practice focused on emotional intelligence, leadership effectiveness, and workplace healing.

Susan served in senior HR leadership roles for global organizations including Kellogg's, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Rockwell Automation, and Applied Materials. After retiring from corporate life at 60, she transitioned into her own consulting and executive coaching practice, helping C-suite leaders and organizations transform workplace dynamics through her proprietary frameworks.

Susan reveals how two key relationships profoundly changed the trajectory of her career, leadership style, and personal growth.

[00:02:40] From Corporate CHRO to Purpose-Driven Consultant • 36.5-year career in corporate HR and consulting • Served as Chief HR Officer in Fortune 150 organizations • Successfully hired and mentored her successor before retiring • Retired at 60 and transitioned into consulting by design

[00:08:00] The Crossroads Meditation • Attended a VIP retreat in Ibiza • Faced a decision between scaling a digital business or starting a boutique consulting practice • Realized she wanted to work with people she genuinely respected and enjoyed • Within weeks, former colleagues reached out with opportunities

[00:10:40] Helping Leaders Shift Identity • Coaches executives in large corporations, private equity firms, and universities • Helps leaders recognize how childhood programming shows up at work • Reduces anxiety, overthinking, and perfectionism patterns • Focuses on leadership capability and performance optimization

[00:13:40] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Celine DeCosta • Finished writing Healing at Work but was afraid to publish it • Invested in a 90-minute Story Clarity Intensive • Discovered her purpose was bigger than her fear • Published the book after years of hesitation

[00:23:20] 4,000 Weeks and Redefining Time • Introduced to Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman • Realized an 80-year life equals roughly 4,000 weeks • Shifted from seeing time as pressure to seeing it as precious • Became more intentional about family, friendships, and experiences

[00:27:00] Rethinking Wealth and Utility • Influenced by Die with Zero by Bill Perkins • Began focusing on life experiences over accumulation • Prioritized giving while alive • Shared wealth intentionally with family

[00:29:00] The Second Transformational Relationship: Ken Wright • Met Ken Wright through the Human Synergistics Lifestyles Inventory • Received early feedback about perfectionism that later proved true • Learned advanced leadership and organizational frameworks

[00:37:00] The Power of Right Relationships • Credits mentors for holding a bigger vision for her than she held for herself • Learned that growth requires uncomfortable feedback • Discovered that emotional healing improves performance • Built a career rooted in gratitude and intentional evolution

KEY QUOTES "A lot of our workplace conflict is unresolved history asking to be healed." - Susan Winchester

"There is a conscious healing career path, and there is an unconscious wounded career path. Most of us don't realize which one we're on." - Susan Winchester

"Perfectionism looks like excellence from the outside. Inside, it can be desperation." - Susan Winchester

CONNECT WITH SUSAN WINCHESTER 🌐 Website: https://www.susanwinchester.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanschmittwinchester

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/falcorspirit

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What if honesty is the only sales strategy you ever needed?

In this episode, Kevin sits down with Don Williams, founder of Don Williams Global and a sales and leadership coach with over 30 years of experience. Don works primarily with founder-led businesses under $100 million, helping them grow their top line fast. He started selling at 19, became the top rep out of 450 within months, and has since worked with more than half of the Fortune 500. His core belief has never changed: the foundation of all sales and leadership is trust, and the only way to build it is to be trustworthy.

The relationship that transformed Don's life: a man he met in downtown Fort Worth at a meeting he knew was never going to close. Don was so impressed that before leaving he looked at the man and said, we are not doing business today, and I think that's the right thing. But I've only told a couple of people this in my life: you and I, someday, somehow, some way, we will work together and do great things. Two years later the man called. They spent nearly a decade doing significant work in the insurance industry, and at one point Don bought a house from his sight unseen simply because he trusted him completely. Their paths diverged, then reconnected again, and Don now expects them to be a near-household name in AI within the next 18 months. Twenty-five years, two business chapters, and a third just getting started.

[00:02:31] Noah Rosenfarb: The Introduction Behind This Episode

• Noah Rosenfarb introduced Kevin and Don, telling Don simply that Kevin has your vibe.
• Don says he and Kevin are like brothers from other mothers.
• Both agree it worked because Noah already had deep trust with each of them.

[00:04:00] What Don Does: Helping Businesses Bring More Money in the Door

• Don spent 30 years with Fortune 500 companies before shifting to founder-led businesses.
• He helps clients raise their top line, which solves about half of all business problems.
• He took one client from the edge of bankruptcy to $1.5 million in 2025, projecting $5 million this year.

[00:05:20] What Inspires Him: Helping People Who Help People

• Don describes himself as a giver whose mission is to help people who help other people.
• He only takes on work that feeds that personal mission.
• The bigger the ripple, the better.

[00:08:00] Build the Best Team, Not a Team That Looks Like You

• Don used to hire people who thought and worked exactly like him, and says that was a mistake.
• The best teams have diverse viewpoints, thought patterns, and skill sets, like a football team.
• A leader's only two jobs are to cast the vision relentlessly and then go get the best people to make it real.

[00:12:20] The Origin Story: A 19-Year-Old with a 67% Closing Rate

• Don dropped engineering when a part-time sales job out-earned his future degree.
• Within months he was the top rep out of 450 with a 67% closing rate, double the company average.
• He credits brutal honesty: people buy from someone who tells the truth.

[00:15:57] The Foundational Principle: Be Trustworthy

• Don sold 17 houses in his first month in real estate, every one on the first visit.
• Trust is the foundational skill of all sales and leadership.
• Do what you say you will do and you will stand out.

[00:17:40] The Google Stat Nobody Acts On

• The first vendor to speak with a customer wins the deal 71% of the time.
• If no one answers, they call the next business on the list.
• Answering the phone is one of the easiest ways to beat the competition.

[00:19:00] The Client Results That Rock His World

• A client on the edge of bankruptcy closed 2025 at $1.5 million and is projecting $5 million this year.
• Don loves working with highly intelligent people who are sometimes low on emotional intelligence.
• All influence happens at the emotional level: the brain might veto something crazy, but the heart gets what the heart wants.

[00:22:26] The Relationship That Changed Everything

• Don met a man at a meeting he knew would never close and told him they would work together someday.
• Two years later the man called, and they spent nearly a decade in the insurance industry together.
• Twenty-five years on they are building something in AI that Don expects to make them a near-household name.

[00:24:40] The Business He Gave Away at 5 O'Clock

• Don opened a second business to support a sick friend, then gave the whole operation away when his friend passed.
• At 5 PM he told Dave it would be his at 5:01 or gone forever, and gave it away for free.
• Don buried Dave at the National Cemetery in Dallas this year and says no bank balance replaces relationships that mean something.

[00:37:07] Final Thought: You Are Stronger Than You Think

• All success in life starts with how you see yourself.
• Your reality will follow your thoughts.
• His favorite quote, from Christopher Robin: you are far better, far smarter, and far stronger than you think.

KEY QUOTES

"The foundational skill of all influence, whether it's leadership or sales, is trust. And if you want to build trust, be trustworthy. Do what you say you're gonna do. That will shock people, because they're not used to it." - Don Williams

"Google stats say that the first potential vendor, the first potential service provider that speaks with the customer, wins the deal 71% of the time." - Don Williams

"All your business success and all your awards and all those commas on your bank account won't make any difference if you don't like who you are and if you don't have relationships with people that mean something." - Don Williams

CONNECT WITH DON WILLIAMS

🌐 Website: http://www.donwilliamsglobal.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-williams-leadershipcoach

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.williams.384464

📧 Email: don@donwilliamsglobal.com

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What if the content you created in 2006 is still making you money today?

In this episode, Kevin sits down with Mary Ann Bautista and Matthew Pierce, co-founders of Turbo Rank, in the first-ever two-guest interview on the show. With 30 years of direct response marketing behind them across TV, radio, and podcasting, they now specialize in helping mid-market businesses turn YouTube into a discoverable, revenue-generating channel. What makes their story remarkable is that they built Turbo Rank without ads, without outside funding, and without starting from zero. A client relationship they started together in 2006 never stopped generating revenue, giving them the foundation to launch on their own terms.

Mary Ann speaks about a relationship that changed everything: Mary Lou, a radio salesperson she met in the early 1990s. A chain of casual introductions through Mary Lou's sister led to the client Mary Ann has worked with since 2006, the one that funded houses, put kids through college, and laid the groundwork for Turbo Rank.

Matthew speaks on the relationship that changed everything: a voiceover artist he hired and became friends with, who casually mentioned Matthew to a large client one day. That single unrequested referral turned into 10 years of work across 40 franchise markets.

[00:03:28] Ryan Guthrie: The Introduction Behind This Episode

• Ryan Guthrie connected Kevin with Mary Ann and Matthew, and Kevin calls it an automatic yes.
• Both sides agreed immediately because the trust was already there through Ryan.
• This is also the first time Mary Ann and Matthew have been interviewed together.

[00:04:56] What They Do: YouTube Organic Optimization

• YouTube is the second largest search engine and most businesses do not know how to use it properly.
• They work with brands already active on YouTube in the $10 million to $500 million revenue range.
• They help clients get found, grow owned audiences, and turn YouTube into a direct sales channel.

[00:07:40] What Inspires Them: Results You Can Actually See

• Matthew loves building an owned audience on YouTube rather than renting someone else's attention.
• Mary Ann points to a client they took to over 50% view duration in just eight weeks.
• Both say watching a client's eyes open wide at their 30-day progress meetings never gets old.

[00:11:08] How They Met: A Fake Sales Call on a Friday Afternoon

• Matthew sold radio at CBS and used fake sales calls to Mary Ann's agency as an excuse to leave early on Fridays.
• They became friends, and when Matthew started his own agency, Mary Ann was one of his first clients.
• She brought him a restricted health and wellness account, and they started experimenting with YouTube together in 2006.

[00:13:40] The Client They Have Had Since 2006

• That original account grew into over 60 YouTube channels, most still driving orders today.
• They learned the real craft of YouTube optimization by pushing hard to serve that one account well.
• Two years ago they spotted a gap in the organic YouTube space and launched Turbo Rank together.

[00:16:07] The Client Win They Are Most Proud Of

• A competitor blogger was ranking above a client's own product name with inaccurate negative content.
• Turbo Rank pushed the negative results down and put the client's videos in top positions in about four months.
• Revenue share deals from work done years ago still fund Turbo Rank today and let them launch without outside capital.

[00:21:32] Mary Ann's Million Dollar Relationship: Mary Lou

• Mary Lou was a radio salesperson at KCBS who became a genuine friend over four or five years.
• She introduced Mary Ann to her sister, who made a casual elevator introduction to a key contact at a major company.
• That chain led to Mary Ann's most significant client relationship, one that has lasted over 30 years.

[00:23:20] Matthew's Million Dollar Relationship: The Voiceover Artist

• A voiceover artist Matthew hired stayed in touch long after the job was done.
• Without being asked, he mentioned Matthew to a large client he was working with.
• That one casual mention turned into 10 years of work across 40 franchise markets.

[00:25:35] Empowering People to Outgrow You

• Matthew recognized a team member was destined for bigger things and pushed him toward better opportunities.
• Mary Ann then hired that same person at her agency, where he stayed four or five years before moving to LA and thriving.
• Both believe holding people back hurts everyone, and open communication is the foundation of their culture.

[00:32:14] Final Thought: YouTube Is Not Optional Anymore

• Every month you delay means competitors get further ahead.
• 60 to 65% of people search after seeing an ad, and if you are not ranking, you paid for that lead to go to a competitor.
• Turbo Rank offers a free mini audit and quick fix report for qualified brands at turborank.co.

KEY QUOTES

"YouTube is the second largest search engine. People go to YouTube to find out how to do stuff. It is a social network. People go to YouTube to connect. It is one of the most powerful things your business can do right now." - Matthew Pierce

"My very best clients are employees of former clients. They remember you, they know how hard you work, they know the value you brought, and you're the first call when there's a need." - Mary Ann Bautista

CONNECT WITH MARY ANN AND MATTHEW

🌐Website: https://www.turborank.co

💼 LinkedIn (Mary Ann): https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryannbautista

💼 LinkedIn (Matthew): https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewfastforwardmarketing

📋 Free Mini Audit: Available at turborank.co for qualified brands

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What if the connection that saves your life was nine years in the making, and you had no idea it was coming?

In this episode, Scott Rammage shares how a chain of relationships built over nearly a decade led him to the doctor who restored his health when no one else could. Scott is the owner of HireVP, a virtual professionals agency that recruits, places, and fully supports experienced overseas staff for business owners across the U.S. and Australia. He spent 17 years learning the hard way what it costs to try to do everything yourself, losing money and time with his family in the process, before building a business model designed to give other entrepreneurs the freedom he struggled so long to find. HireVP has grown entirely through referrals and relationships, with zero advertising spend. Scott lives in Dallas with his wife and sons.

The relationship that transformed Scott's life: Carl, an executive coach who mentioned his brother almost in passing at the end of their first meeting. That brother was a functional neurologist, one of only 300 in the world with that specialty. Months later, when a mysterious neurological episode left Scott non-functional for weeks and regular doctors had no answers, Carl made the call. His brother took Scott from barely functional to nearly fully recovered in four days. The chain that led to Carl stretched back nine years through three other people, starting with a client Scott met in the fitness industry.

[00:02:44] George Rivera: The Introduction Behind This Episode

• George Rivera connected Kevin and Scott, and Kevin calls any intro from George an automatic yes.
• Both agree a trust-based introduction beats every other way of meeting someone.
• It is proof that the right relationship cuts through instantly.

[00:03:43] What Scott Does: HireVP and the Freedom He Was Chasing

• Scott runs HireVP, placing and supporting experienced virtual professionals for business owners.
• They go beyond typical VA services by staying involved with both sides long-term.
• It is all driven by Scott's mission to give owners the freedom he spent 17 years chasing himself.

[00:04:42] Why He Does It: The Price He Paid First

• Scott started his first business in 2004 while still teaching full-time.
• He spent 17 years making costly mistakes and robbing his family of time and attention.
• His greatest joy now is shortening that learning curve for other owners.

[00:07:55] The Origin of HireVP: Hold My Beer

• A contractor told Scott he needed a VA, then said he would never succeed with one.
• He took it as a challenge, went all in on overseas hiring, and had three full-time VAs within three months.
• A colleague asked to borrow one, Scott charged a rate, and a business was born.

[00:11:40] The Breaking Point That Built a Better Model

• Scott lost 70% of recurring revenue almost overnight after buying out his business partner.
• His 17-year-old son told him he just wished his dad would finally get paid what he was worth.
• He charged a doctor $500 to find and train a VA just for her, knocked it out of the park, and kept getting referrals.
• Seeing clients fail after placement showed him full support was the missing piece, and HireVP was born.

[00:16:40] The First VA, Nine Years Later

• His very first VA still works for him and is now at university in Florida, with Scott sponsoring her.
• When asked why she enrolled, she said she wanted to bring more value back to the company.
• He calls this kind of impact the thing that feeds him every day.

[00:21:40] Carl's Brother: The Connection That Saved His Life

• Scott hired executive coach Carl, who mentioned his brother, a functional neurologist, almost as an afterthought.
• Months later Scott was falling without tripping, slurring words, and freezing mid-step, with doctors finding nothing wrong.
• Carl helped run the business for six weeks, then connected Scott with his brother, who had him nearly fully recovered in four days.
• The doctor told Scott there are only 300 practitioners with that specialty in the world.

[00:26:40] What He Learned About How He Is Wired

• The neurologist showed Scott that his drive to fix everyone's problems is the same thing that built his businesses.
• Learning to manage that wiring rather than be destroyed by it has been a major personal shift.
• He now sees it as his duty to pass on hard-won lessons so others move through similar things faster.

[00:32:22] Final Thought: Play the Long Game

• Networking well is a superpower, but most people try to force it too fast.
• His advice: slow down to speed up, and focus on the relationship, not what it might bring you.
• Someone recently messaged him about a podcast from three years ago that had already sent two paying clients his way.

KEY QUOTES

"I get no better satisfaction in business than helping other business owners really achieve that little bit of freedom from the chaos they created when they started." - Scott Rammage

"Don't just make a connection. Your goal with that connection should be leaving that person with something that will improve their life. No reciprocity. Have a goal of giving only, and that will absolutely work." - Scott Rammage

"Slow down to speed up. Just start meeting people and don't try to push the relationship for a connection. Push the relationship for a relationship." - Scott Rammage

CONNECT WITH SCOTT RAMMAGE

🌐 Website: https://www.hirevp.us

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-rammage

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.rammage.7

📱 Instagram: @scottrammage

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What if losing everything was actually the beginning of your greatest chapter?

In this episode, Jeff Martinovich shares an extraordinary story of building and losing a billion-dollar wealth management firm and then fighting his way back from federal prison. Jeff is the founder and former CEO of MICG Investment Management, which grew to over $1 billion in assets and 100 associates in Newport News, Virginia. After the 2008 financial crisis triggered regulatory scrutiny, Jeff refused three federal plea offers, went to trial against the U.S. government, and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. But that wasn't the end. Representing himself with a number-two pencil and a manual typewriter from the prison law library, Jeff filed over 500 motions, had trial court decisions reversed five times, and got two federal judges removed, walking free nearly seven years early. Today he advises 19 companies, speaks to CEO groups worldwide, and is the author of When Not If: A CEO's Guide to Overcoming Adversity, published by Forbes Books in January 2024. Jeff lives in Norfolk, Virginia with his wife Ashley and their young children.

The relationship that transformed Jeff's life: his wife Ashley. She had worked in his mortgage company years before his conviction, and about a year and a half into his prison sentence, she sent him a love letter out of the blue, saying she had always loved him and would stand by him until they won. She then drove seven hours each way to visit him once a month for seven years in what Jeff describes as a horrific prison visiting room. On the day he was released, she was waiting at the front gates to bring him home. They are now married with a young daughter, Carly, a miracle Jeff says he never deserved and considers his greatest motivation.

[00:03:40] Kurt and Kristen LudHart: The Introduction That Started It All

• Kevin credits Kurt and Kristen LudHart for connecting him with Jeff
• Jeff agrees on the power of trust-based introductions cutting through surface-level noise
• Demonstrates how the right relationships open doors quickly and authentically

[00:04:43] What Jeff Does Today: Rebuilding After Ruin

• Now works with a portfolio of 19 companies, helping CEOs and management teams grow
• Has a team of experienced advisors; also runs a law firm and investment funds
• Focused on helping owners create secure jobs, community impact, and charity support
• Describes the last five years as a full business resurrection

[00:08:02] The Backstory: Air Force Academy to Billion-Dollar Firm

• Attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, served at Langley Air Force Base during the First Gulf War
• Got his MBA at night while at Langley, then entered finance as a rookie cold-calling stockbroker
• Built MICG Investment Management in Newport News, VA to over $1 billion in assets and 100 associates
• Grew to include three hedge funds, a mortgage company, insurance company, and real estate firm

[00:08:48] The 2008 Crisis and the Government Comes Knocking

• The 2008 financial crisis triggered regulatory crackdowns on approximately 2,000 second-tier firms
• MICG was too large to avoid the radar and too small to write a $200 million check to make regulators move on
• Jeff was offered three federal plea deals and refused all three
• Sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after a five-week trial

[00:11:20] The Prison Law Library and 500 Motions

• Sent to a violent prison in New Jersey, not the minimum-security facility typical for white-collar cases
• Began helping other inmates with their cases, filing over 300 motions for others
• Through this service, taught himself federal criminal law entirely by doing
• Filed over 500 motions in his own case using a number-two pencil and a manual typewriter

[00:12:50] The Three Pillars That Got Him Through

• Physical: committed to 1% improvement every day, weights and running the track, not just for protection but for endorphins and the energy to stay proactive
• Intellectual: read 26 classics from the prison library and discovered a love of literature he never would have found otherwise
• Spiritual: read the Bible front to back multiple times; got into yoga and meditation to channel his anger into something productive
• Key mindset: treat adversity like a marathon, not a sprint, because it will take way longer than you think

[00:18:26] The Academy Roommate: From Prison to $8 Million Exit

• Air Force Academy roommate flew out on Jeff's second day home from prison
• Had several struggling companies and needed someone he could trust completely
• Jeff and a team of Academy basketball and rugby teammates merged four losing companies
• Sold to California private equity two years later for $8 million
• Jeff's deep pride: these men had visited him in prison when he had nothing, and this was his way of giving back

[00:20:32] Ashley's Love Letter: The Relationship That Changed Everything

• About a year and a half into his sentence, Jeff received a love letter from Ashley, a former employee
• She wrote that she had always loved him and would stand by him no matter what
• Drove seven hours each way to visit him once a month for seven years
• Was waiting at the front gates the day he was released and brought him home

[00:24:20] The 12-Man Room: Jumping on Tony's Back

• Describes a late-night prison confrontation: a large inmate named Tony began brutally beating a smaller Guatemalan man over commissary pricing
• Jeff had spent months helping Tony with legal paperwork to get him transferred to a minimum-security camp
• In the middle of the night, Jeff ran across the room and jumped on Tony's back, screaming that he was about to ruin his transfer
• Tony came to his senses, went back to bed, everyone survived

[00:27:11] The Book and the Mission: When Not If

• Forbes Books published When Not If: A CEO's Guide to Overcoming Adversity in January 2024
• Amazon #1 bestseller; available on Amazon and at jeffmartinovich.com
• Two halves: 20 lessons on how to prepare before a black swan event, and 20 lessons on what to do differently once it arrives
• Jeff's goal: help business leaders avoid the mistakes he made on the way up and survive the ones they can't prevent

[00:30:06] Final Message: You Can Get Through Anything

• Life doesn't throw curve balls, it throws bazookas, and Jeff lost everything down to zero
• Message to anyone going through something terrible: you can get through anything, you just have to get through it
• Believes God gives incredible rewards on the other side of the tunnel for those who endure
• Humbled by how many people share their own terrible stories after his speeches, proving everyone carries something

[00:32:57] Own Your Story: Turning Disadvantages Into Advantages

• 99% of people run and hide after catastrophic public failures; Jeff chose the opposite
• At the start of every meeting, he tells his story directly before anyone can Google it
• This transparency consistently attracts trust, admiration, and deeper connection
• Malcolm Gladwell's principle in action: turn disadvantages into advantages

KEY QUOTES

"Don't run away. Own your story. Be as transparent and strong as you can. And when you own your story, it becomes the thing that attracts incredible people to you." - Jeff Martinovich

"I literally lost a billion-dollar firm and everything down to 0.00. But what I want to give other people is hope and inspiration. You can go through anything as long as you get through it. You just gotta get through it." - Jeff Martinovich

"The more people I help, the more the universe takes care of us. I learned that even in prison. The day I got home, I just started helping as many people as possible, mostly at 5 AM for free, and it has just exploded into all these blessings." - Jeff Martinovich

CONNECT WITH JEFF MARTINOVICH

🌐 Personal Website: http://www.jeffmartinovich.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-martinovich

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.martinovich.1

📚 Book: When Not If, available on Amazon

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What if success isn't about pushing harder but allowing yourself to be pulled toward your purpose?

In this episode, Seth Streeter shares how he helps people navigate major life transitions and discover their inspired life purpose as co-founder of Mission Wealth, a wealth management firm he started 25 years ago that now manages $14 billion in assets for 4,600 families across 34 US locations. Seth has been a financial advisor for 34 years, specializing in guiding clients through major life events while helping them live more fulfilling lives through assessments across 12 dimensions of wealth. After going through divorce and the financial crisis, Seth realized he was achieving traditional success but wasn't fulfilled, leading him to spend an introspective year attending retreats, meditating, and traveling to India. In the last eight years, Seth has led purpose-driven retreats for over 2,000 people, including nine-day retreats in Bhutan where leaders trek in the Himalayas and stay with monks. Seth spoke at Davos with Deepak Chopra on conscious leadership and leads the purpose community for YPO.

Seth reveals the relationship that transformed his life: Joe Bosco, owner of an Italian restaurant in Fort Collins, Colorado where Seth worked as a dishwasher through high school. When Seth was looking at colleges and his parents wanted him to attend Colorado State, Joe Bosco said "you should check out Santa Barbara, California" because he went there for horse shows. Seth had never heard of Santa Barbara but applied to UCSB because of Joe Bosco and spent 27 years there, founding Mission Wealth, having his children, serving on 10 nonprofit boards, starting sustainable future.org, and doing a TED Talk, all because Joe Bosco suggested he check out UC Santa Barbara. Seth also credits Chip Conley, founder of MEA, as a mentor who showed him how to move from his head to his heart.

[00:03:40] Led Two Nine-Day Purpose Retreats in Bhutan

• In Asia for most of the trip
• Had 25 leaders in each group trekking in Himalayas
• Stayed overnight at monasteries, lived with monks
• Contemplated purpose individually, within companies, within world at large

[00:04:40] Mission Wealth: 25 Years and $14 Billion

• Co-founded Mission Wealth 25 years ago
• Independent registered investment advisory firm
• 34 locations across US, manages just under $14 billion in assets
• About 4,600 families, team of 200 advisors and professionals

[00:05:20] Started Leading Retreats Eight Years Ago

• In last eight years started leading retreats and coaching
• For different companies, leaders, different groups of people
• Takes paid time off to do it, spends vacations leading retreats
• About 2,000 people have gone through in-person programs

[00:06:00] The 13 Inches From Head to Heart

• Great quote: "furthest distance many travel in lifetime are 13 inches from head to heart"
• As financial guy, had heart in what he did, loved helping people solve problems
• This work feels more intimate, more meaningful
• Really helping people give themselves permission to be best version of who they want to be

[00:08:00] Started in Financial Services Right Out of College

• Right out of college, needed a job
• Was in student government at UC Santa Barbara, thought he'd be entrepreneur
• Dad was in government, mom was teacher, brother was police officer
• Family said "you need a job with benefits, security, and paycheck"

[00:09:00] Went Through His Own Tough Journey

• Went through divorce, financial crisis, bumps in life
• Realized success script needed to be rewritten
• Was working hard but wasn't fulfilled, wasn't content
• Achieving success in traditional way materially but didn't feel fulfilled

[00:09:20] The Introspective Year That Changed Everything

• Decided to do whole introspective year
• Went to retreats, read self-help books, listened to podcasts
• Got into meditation, went to India, did all these "woo" things
• That year opened up whole new framework for living

[00:10:20] Push Energy vs Pull Energy

• As entrepreneur, had lot of push energy: building vision, growing team, charging hill
• Used that in Ironman, marathons, running nonprofits
• After personal reflection, started to adopt pull energy approach
• More of allowance, trusting doors close and open for reason

[00:11:20] Speaking at Davos With Deepak Chopra

• Was asked to speak at panel in Malibu with five people
• Woman from Finland asked if he'd been to Davos, offered to get him in
• Three months before event, confirmed: Thursday with Deepak Chopra on Conscious Leadership in Era of AI
• Couldn't have pushed way into that opportunity, was being open and available

[00:14:40] 12 Dimensions of Wealth

• Talk about wealth not just in financial sense but across 12 dimensions
• Impact families are having, quality of relationships, physical health, intellectual growth
• Seeing families grow true wealth feels very rewarding
• Lead purpose community for all of YPO

[00:15:00] The Success Script and Grind Mentality

• Lot of people followed success script, did what they were taught
• Worked hard in school, career, moved through ranks or started company
• Rinsed and repeated grind mentality to get ahead
• Now 40, 50, or 60 saying "is this all there is?"

[00:17:00] Woman Going Through Divorce

• Woman in mid-50s going through divorce
• Two daughters just graduated high school, going to East Coast for college
• Husband ended 30-year marriage right at same time
• From financial standpoint she was fine, but really struggling with identity

[00:18:00] Converting Husband's Office Into Studio

• She loved working with single women's nonprofits, domestic shelters
• Also loved skincare, always did facials for daughters
• Helped her convert former husband's office into studio
• Became licensed aesthetician, did facials for women in community including free ones for women through tough times

[00:19:20] The Inspired Life Purpose Exercise

• Had someone at retreat who was CEO, just exited food tech company in New York
• Did exercise called Your Inspired Life Purpose
• Four circles: innate gifts, skills, passion, what world needs most
• Look at how those four circles intersect

[00:20:00] Paul's Life Manifesto

• CEO named Paul came up with amazing idea during exercise
• Went to room that night, wrote his life manifesto
• Next morning: "I was up most of the night, I now have life manifesto"
• Wanted to change food systems of North America leveraging technology

[00:20:40] Started a Blog, Got Recruited by Patagonia

• Paul decided to start blog writing about his vision
• Just couple months later, recruiter read one of his blog posts
• Interviewed for new position
• Became head of Patagonia's Food Provision Company

[00:24:00] Invested Heavily in Relationships Since High School

• Always had lunch meetings 12 to 1, five days a week at same restaurant
• Would book with clients, teammates, or people in community
• City council members, students, nonprofit leaders, business leaders
• Every single day asking: who is this person, what makes them tick, how can I support them?

[00:25:00] Working at Italian Restaurant in Fort Collins

• Worked at Italian restaurant through high school to pay bills
• Was bus boy, dishwasher, had all the jobs
• Owner was Joe Bosco, owned restaurant in Fort Collins and one in Casper, Wyoming
• Was thinking about colleges, parents would pay for Colorado State

[00:25:40] "You Should Check Out Santa Barbara"

• Wanted to do something different, applied to UCLA and Berkeley
• Joe Bosco said "you should check out Santa Barbara, California, they have university there"
• Used to go there for horse shows
• Had never even heard of Santa Barbara at the time

[00:26:00] Chose UCSB Because of Joe Bosco

• Applied to UCSB, packet looked amazing, university on coast
• Ended up choosing UCSB as his university because of Joe Bosco
• Spent 27 years in Santa Barbara, half of his adult life
• Founded company there, had children there, on 10 nonprofit boards

[00:31:00] Meeting Ashley Brilliant

• Mom was sixth grade teacher, had cartoons called Pot Shots by Ashley Brilliant in classroom
• Going through tough time in Santa Barbara, Ashley's cartoons spoke to him three days in row
• Wrote thank you note to Mr. Brilliant
• He replied, met for lunch at Chinese restaurant

[00:32:00] The Fortune Cookie Message

• After meal, got fortune cookies
• Ashley's note said: "Finally, the answer you've been looking for is sitting across from you"
• Seth's said: "If at first it's a no, it may become a maybe"
• Decided to help Ashley start building business around his cartoons

[00:34:40] Service Trip to Honduras

• Took son on service trip to Honduras, worked at orphanage
• Security guard had wooden leg, very archaic piece of wood with hinge
• 34 years old, probably made $2 a day, couldn't get new leg
• Decided to get him a leg

[00:35:40] Getting Him a $10,000 Leg

• Took almost a year but got friend who was Paralympic athlete involved
• Got him fancy $10,000 leg that was molded and fit for him
• Had to get it down there strategically because shipping would mean it gets stolen
• He sent FaceTime video: first time he'd been able to slow dance with wife since car accident 10 years prior

KEY QUOTES

"A lot of people followed the success script, worked hard in school and career, rinsed and repeated this grind mentality. Now they're 40, 50, or 60 saying 'is this all there is? I now have success, but there's a creative in me that hasn't been out to play.'" - Seth Streeter

"The furthest distance many of us travel in our lifetimes are the 13 inches from our head to our heart. This work feels more intimate and meaningful because it's really helping people give themselves permission to be the best version of who they want to be." - Seth Streeter

"I had a lot of push energy as an entrepreneur. But I started to adopt a pull energy approach, more of an allowance, trusting that when a door closes it closes for a reason, when it opens for a reason. I was being pulled to where I was supposed to be." - Seth Streeter

CONNECT WITH SETH STREETER

🌐 Personal Website: https://www.sethstreeter.com

💼 Mission Wealth: https://www.missionwealth.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethstreeter

📱 Instagram: @sethstreeter3.0

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seth.streeter.3

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What if buying a home isn't a transaction but a deeply emotional transition that reveals who you're becoming?

In this episode, Scott Harris shares how he helps people navigate the emotional journey of finding their dream homes as the founder of Magnetic Real Estate, a boutique residential real estate brokerage in Manhattan. Scott has been a residential real estate agent in New York City for almost 23 years and has sold over $2 billion in real estate. Growing up as a child of divorce, he moved back and forth between his parents' houses approximately 500 times before turning 18, and when he started helping people buy homes, he realized he was healing the damage of being from a broken home himself. He nearly burned out in 2014 while building a team, emerging wiser with the realization that real estate is much more than a transaction. His innovative approach, The Magnetic Method, ensures clients attract homes that help them reach the fullest expression of who they're meant to be. Scott firmly believes real estate agents are doing sacred work, and he wrote "Pursue Your Home" to change the narrative around buying a home.

Scott reveals the relationship that transformed his career: Howie Cusack, his mentor at a booking agency in Boston when Scott left college wanting to be in the music business while performing as a singer in a boy band acapella group. Howie took Scott on as an intern and trained him for six years, teaching him how to manage crazy artists, put complicated deals together, and navigate producing concerts and booking tours. Scott toured approximately 100,000 miles a year in an RV performing about a thousand shows opening for bands like NSYNC, working from dial-up internet as the original work-from-home person. When Scott moved to New York and got into real estate, he realized he was armed with incredible skills from Howie, plugging right into the business from day one. This foundation equipped Scott to deal with level-11 insane moments, like when a client called the night before a $7 million closing asking to borrow $350,000 in closing costs, and Scott channeled Howie's ballsy presence from when a reggae act pulled out a chainsaw demanding payment and Howie said "get your butt on stage, you know you're gonna get paid."

[00:05:20] Founder of Magnetic Real Estate

• Boutique residential real estate brokerage firm in Manhattan, New York City
• Been residential real estate agent in New York for almost 23 years
• Serves people buying and selling real estate in New York
• Connects with people all over the globe

[00:07:40] Child of Divorce: Moving 500 Times

• Child of divorce, moved back and forth between parents until age 18
• Did the math: moved about 500 times between their houses
• Started on rental side of business in New York, felt very transactional
• Got into sales and got such satisfaction from helping people buy homes

[00:08:00] Healing Through Helping Others Find Home

• Finally put two and two together
• When helping people find homes, also doing work to heal damage of being from broken home himself
• When he bought home with his wife, it was same work
• To have a place that's really yours changed his life

[00:09:20] Helping People Through Tough Things

• One of first sales: helping older Italian woman who was divorcee find home after bad divorce
• Got call from estate attorney representing Maurice Sendak's estate (wrote "Where the Wild Things Are")
• His estate went to serve organizations that helped kids
• Satisfying to know they were helping many people when they sold the apartment

[00:12:00] Real Estate Agents Are Doing Sacred Work

• Firmly believes real estate agents are doing sacred work, really important work
• Some of most important work there is
• If people change the way they think about themselves and what they're doing, changes whole tenor
• Need to bring whole self into relationship with buyers and sellers

[00:15:20] Started in Music Business as Intern

• When first left college, wanted to be in music business
• Also was singer and performer
• Got job as intern at booking agency (represents bands or talent buyer like clubs/colleges)
• Introduced to Howie Cusack in Boston

[00:16:00] Learning to Sell Bands and Put Tours Together

• Real estate is competitive and hard, but go try to sell bands to bookers at clubs
• Or to college kids probably smoking weed half the time on phone calls
• Really hard to put tours together for bands
• Had amazing mentor in Howie, worked together for better part of six years

[00:16:40] Producing Concerts is Multifaceted

• Producing concerts is so multifaceted
• Putting bands on road, booking tours, all those things
• All skills from working with Howie influenced way he plugged right into real estate business
• Right out of the gate, made huge impact on his life

[00:17:40] Touring 100,000 Miles a Year

• Working phones from RV while doing 60,000 or 100,000 miles of touring a year
• Really grateful to Howie for making huge impact
• Had RV, went all around country performing at venues
• Boy band version of acapella group (like contemporary Pentatonix) with beatbox

[00:18:20] Opening for NSYNC and Doing 1,000 Shows

• 23 to 24 years ago
• Opened for bands like NSYNC
• Did about 1,000 shows together when he was there
• Credits experience for making him appreciate giving back

[00:18:40] Everyone's Got a Story

• Been to so many little towns: upstate New York, Indiana, Ohio, eastern seaboard, California
• Meet people living their lives, get to know them
• Everyone's got story to tell
• What's their superpower? Everybody's got something they're uniquely awesome at

[00:21:00] The $7 Million Townhouse Crisis

• Represented songwriter (very well known, wrote popular songs in 60s and 70s)
• Made a lot of money, but also crazy deal maker
• Night before buying $7 million townhouse, calls Scott
• Even though told him 50 times about closing costs, didn't register he'd have to spend $350,000

[00:22:00] Get Your Butt On Stage

• Howie looks him right in eye: "Get your butt on stage. You know you're gonna get paid. Get outta my face with that"
• Scott inhabiting this ballsy guy
• Client asking for money Scott didn't have sitting around
• At closing table, client did significant gymnastics to make it happen

[00:24:00] Free Resources at Pursue Your Home

• Bunch of free resources so people can get flavor of what's in book
• Go to pursueyourhome.com
• Can take assessment to learn your own communication style
• Strongly encourages people to take time to be prepared before jumping in

[00:26:00] Surround Yourself With People Who Care

• Need to surround yourself with team who really cares about you
• Family and friends that support you, cheer you on, in trenches with you
• If there are people in your life that secretly want you to fail, leave them on outside of this conversation
• Important to surround yourself with feeling where people see you and hear you

KEY QUOTES

"I firmly believe that real estate agents are doing sacred work, really important work. We're doing some of the most important work that there is. If people change the way they think about themselves and what they're doing, it changes the whole tenor of the dynamic." - Scott Harris

"Everybody's got something they're uniquely awesome at. If you prejudge them, you miss it. You miss that moment. If you can just be with somebody, you end up learning a lot." - Scott Harris

"Finding a home is one of the most stressful things people go through because it is so deeply important to our existence. The word for human and the word for home are the same route. You can't untangle those two things." - Scott Harris

CONNECT WITH SCOTT HARRIS

🌐 Website: https://www.pursueyourhome.com

🏠 Magnetic Real Estate: https://www.magneticre.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrisresidential

📱 Instagram: @scottieharris

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottHarrisResidentialTeam

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What if the extraordinary results you're chasing are hiding in the ordinary daily tasks you're overlooking?

In this episode, Dr. Lani Jones shares how she helps mid-career professionals navigate the "what's next?" question through psychology-informed business coaching. Lani is a clinical psychologist who works in the leadership space, doing one-on-one coaching with professionals asking "I've checked all the boxes, where do I go from here?" while also working with organizations on culture and clarity. She started her career in a hospital setting as part of an interdisciplinary team before opening a private practice, but COVID became the unexpected catalyst when evaluation needs dropped while therapy demand skyrocketed, and she began working with entrepreneurs and executives on leading through crises and balancing professional ambition with caregiving. Lani's innovative approach centers on deep-dive calendar audits that reveal what's truly important versus what's done out of obligation, helping seasoned professionals reclaim agency they've forgotten they have. Her biggest win was helping a C-Suite executive who achieved her life's goal but was miserable, and after 18 months she was loving work again simply by claiming her agency and rebuilding her calendar. Beyond her professional achievements, Lani champions the motto "the extraordinary abides in the ordinary."

Lani reveals the relationships that transformed her business: three powerhouse women she met in a mastermind group for testing psychologists around 2018-2019, who after the mastermind ended gelled so deeply that one said "I think we need to meet in person," leading to yearly gatherings where they show up so vulnerably that if two end up in the same city there's a text guilting the others to fly in even for 36 hours. These women became her biggest champions who championed her pursuit of coaching saying "pursue this, it's okay to transition out of clinical work," and because Lani had all her cheerleaders behind the scenes giving her business advice while personally supporting her, she could show up powerfully for an early coaching client, a founder drowning without systems who couldn't afford mentorship. She worked with her pro bono, introducing her to key people and helping her handle burnout, leading to Lani's realization that it wasn't just about these three women but about the broader relationship ecosystem she'd built over years where she could say "let me share my people with you."

[00:03:20] Clinical Psychologist in Leadership and Business Space

• Works as consultant and coach with mid-career professionals
• One-to-one coaching with those asking "what's next? I've checked boxes, had success—where do I go from here?"
• Works with organizations and leadership teams on culture, clarity, evaluation procedures
• Does workshops and trainings

[00:04:20] Started Career in Hospital Setting

• Worked with variety of medical professionals as part of interdisciplinary team
• Focused on diagnostic side: evaluation and testing
• Moved to opening private practice during COVID

[00:04:40] COVID Changed Everything

• By happenstance started working with group of entrepreneurs and executives
• Covering topics: leading through pandemic, going through reorg while dealing with divorce
• Climbing corporate ladder while being caregiver at home
• Talking about dual roles

[00:05:00] Merging Business and Psychology

• Being business owner herself, loved talking all things business
• Using psych expertise to address people-related challenges
• Coaching was way to merge love of both business and psychology
• Help people maximize impact and show up as best selves in all spheres

[00:05:40] The Need Shifted Dramatically

• Stay-at-home mandates, children in schools at home
• Need for evaluations drastically dropped off
• Need for therapy greatly increased
• What she'd been doing totally unexpectedly shifted

[00:07:40] C-Suite Client Success Story

• Woman came to her, been in C-Suite about a year
• C-Suite was her entire goal—everything she'd done was for this
• Year in, I was not very happy, asking "is this it? Is this what it's supposed to feel like?"
• Crisis moment: "What do I do now?"

[00:08:20] Deep Dive Calendar Audit

• First step with all clients: calendar audit
• Can say such and such is important, but calendar reflects what truly is
• Spend week or two doing deep dive: mindless scrolling, transport times, all the things
• Start peeling back layers in all spheres

[00:08:40] What's on There Out of Obligation?

• What's under obligation or guilt?
• What did you really want to say no to but said yes to?
• Seasoned professionals often forget how much agency they have in a situation

[00:09:00] The Big Win: Nothing Externally Changed

• By end of their time together, she was really loving things again
• Nothing significantly changed externally: same role, two elementary age kids, married
• Started claiming her agency, taking more control
• Peeling away guilt and "shoulds"

[00:09:40] Rebuilding Calendar to Bring Life

• Rebuilt calendar to things that brought her life, things she wanted to say yes to
• Even within job position, had more flexibility than she was claiming
• Structured schedule to maximize deep think time
• Had flexibility in when and how she was taking meetings

[00:12:40] Met in Mastermind Group

• When first starting practice, sought out business mentor
• Was in mastermind group—all testing psychologists in private practice
• Very specific niche, all virtual across the country

[00:13:00] Four Women Really Gelled Together

• At end of mastermind, herself and three women really gelled
• One said "I think we need to meet in person"
• Met up in person number of years ago for first time
• Have yearly gathering somewhere in world, one plays host

[00:13:20] Guilting Each Other to Fly In

• If two end up in same city, there's text message
• Guilting other ones to fly in even for 36 hours to be with them
• Powerhouse business owners

[00:13:40] Biggest Champions and Cheerleaders

• Been some of her biggest champions and cheerleaders
• Shown up in this space so vulnerably and authentically
• Few weeks ago, sitting on beach in Florida talking life, talking business
• What's going great? What's hard?

[00:15:40] Early Coaching Client: Founder Drowning

• One of early coaching clients was a founder couple years in
• Didn't quite have systems in place that she needed
• This was her first business, felt like she was drowning
• Not in financial position to take on business mentor or coach

[00:16:00] Working Together Pro Bono

• Made agreement to work together
• Started working with her on both personal and professional life
• Getting business systems in place
• Introduced her to number of key people with expertise outside of hers

[00:16:40] Had Cheerleaders Behind the Scenes

• Because had all her cheerleaders behind scenes
• Who were giving her all amazing business advice and expertise
• Personally supporting her
• Was able to show up in very similar way for this client

[00:17:40] Broader Relationship Ecosystem

• Wasn't only these three women
• Was the broader relationship ecosystem she shared with client
• So many other key players was able to introduce her to
• All that relationship equity over the years

[00:20:20] The Extraordinary Abides in the Ordinary

• One of her mottos: "The extraordinary abides in the ordinary"
• As entrepreneurs and business owners, we want the big shiny things
• Want to run after really big successes or goals
• Actually the seemingly mundane or just ordinary daily tasks

[00:20:40] Relationships Take Time to Build

• Even relationship building: sending the text, doing the follow up, grabbing the coffee
• Can't alter time—time is what it is, for better or worse
• Sometimes it's fast, sometimes it's slow
• Relationships take time to build, they're not overnight

KEY QUOTES

"The extraordinary abides in the ordinary. Sometimes as entrepreneurs and business owners, we want the big, shiny things, but it's actually the seemingly mundane, ordinary daily tasks of relationship building, sending the text, doing the follow up that creates big results." - Dr. Lani Jones

"Our calendar actually reflects what truly is important to us. We can say such and such is important, but how are we spending our time? Seasoned professionals often forget how much agency they have in a situation." - Dr. Lani Jones

"Relationships take time to build. They're not overnight. Don't get in that rapid pace of 'I'm not where I need to be.' Just do the daily tasks, do the ordinary, and you're gonna see the big results." - Dr. Lani Jones

CONNECT WITH DR. LANI JONES

🌐 Website: https://drlanijones.com

📋 Free Calendar Reset Guide: https://drlanijones.com/reset

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlanijones

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What if we don't know what to do with broken hearts the way we know what to do with broken bones?

In this episode, Jeanne Foot shares how she helps individuals and families navigate mental health, addiction, and trauma recovery through The Recovery Concierge. Jeanne is the founder of this boutique mental health, addiction, and trauma navigation agency that provides innovative concierge services tailored to unique needs of individuals, families, and the entertainment industry. With a focus on mental health and addiction recovery, her team's holistic approach encompasses assessments, counseling, and continuous support, ensuring a comprehensive pathway to sustainable recovery. Her journey into this work wasn't by choice - it chose her. Growing up in 1960s London with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and the death of her baby sister, Jeanne fell into substances at a young age as her only tool for emotional regulation. After getting sober and spending seven years frozen in emotional pain, she had an epiphany: no one's coming to save you. She dove into everything from peak performance to trauma healing, creating the proprietary method she uses today with clients.

Jeanne reveals two relationships that transformed her: her father, who mentored her in the family insurance business in her early twenties when she didn't want to go to university, teaching her that sales is about guiding people through a process (not coercing them), that you win on price but lose on price, and instilling values of ethics, integrity, kindness, vulnerability, and transparency that shape everything she stands for today and carry through to their third-generation family business; and Dr. Anthony Levitt, Chief of Brain Sciences at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto with over 10,000 employees, a brilliant psychiatrist who gave agency to people who weren't clinically trained, wanting to learn from lived experience rather than taking a top-down approach, asking Jeanne to chair a grassroots pilot program in 2012 that has now served thousands of families and become a leader in the industry both nationally and internationally, and who admitted "we're failing people, we need to do better" when others would hide that they don't know what to do.

[00:04:20] Founder of The Recovery Concierge

• Boutique mental health, addiction, and trauma navigation agency
• Matches people to right services and bespoke treatment plans
• Uses invitational, compassionate, non-stigmatizing approach to intervention
• Been doing this work 30 years informally, 15 years professionally

[00:05:40] Growing Up in 1960s London

• "Children should be seen and not heard" environment in middle class family
• Baby sister died when Jeanne was four years old
• Stepbrother sexually abused her, grew up with tremendous trauma
• Fell into substances at very young age as only coping mechanism

[00:06:40] The Critical Juncture: Seven Years Sober

• Seven years into sobriety, thought "if this is all my life's gonna be, I don't want any part"
• Frozen in her body, life picture perfect on outside but empty inside
• In so much emotional pain despite having everything externally

[00:07:20] The Epiphany: No One's Coming to Save You

• Had an epiphany: "There's no one who's coming to save you. You better figure this out yourself"
• Dove into everything: peak performance, emotional healing, trauma, addiction, mental health
• Created proprietary method mixing optimal tools that became foundation for her work

[00:08:20] Her Children: The Catalyst for Change

• Children became more important to her than herself
• Wanted to do things differently than her family had done
• Made sacrifices in her early thirties (early 1990s) to choose them

[00:09:40] The Volunteer Visit That Changed Everything

• Looking for place to volunteer, wanted to be of service and reduce suffering
• Someone pointed her to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto
• Had no idea what she was doing, just felt she wanted to help

[00:10:00] The Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Anthony Levitt

• Met Dr. Anthony Levitt, Chief of Brain Sciences at Sunnybrook Hospital (10,000+ employees)
• He was examining why parents were taking children to US for mental health treatment
• Parents shared their stories, Dr. Levitt said: "We're gonna do something about this right now"

[00:10:40] Building the Plane While Flying It

• Dr. Levitt asked Jeanne to chair the pilot program
• Lived experience informed program with clinical expertise
• Did everything: secured philanthropy funding, hired people, visited every stakeholder, defined metrics

[00:11:20] He Gave Us Agency

• Dr. Levitt gave them agency despite being brilliant psychiatrist
• Felt he could learn from people who had been in trenches and failed by system
• Jeanne worked across from him 30 hours a week for free because so in love with the work

[00:13:00] We Don't Know What to Do with Broken Hearts

• Know what to do with broken hearts (cardiology) or broken bones
• Don't know what to do with broken hearts (emotional)—very nuanced, non-prescriptive process
• Need to meet client where they're at, not use top-down approach

[00:14:20] Rapport Is Number One Indicator of Success

• Rapport is #1 indicator of success, not therapeutic expertise
• If you don't have rapport with someone, you can't go anywhere
• Client from 40 years ago still calling because of implicit trust: "I've got my people"

[00:16:00] Learning from Her Father

• First person who changed her life was her father
• His ethics, sense of humor, values shaped who she became
• Father was fantastic mentor when she joined family insurance business in 1980s

[00:17:00] Sales Is About Guiding People in a Process

• Father taught her sales is about guiding people, not coercing them
• Showing them a process: either they want it or they don't
• He taught her about ethics—have to have benchmark of morality in business

[00:19:20] Third Generation of Client Relationships

• Into third generation with client acquisitions in insurance business
• Values come from within structure of family and organization
• Clients saying: "We've been dealing with these people for long time, continue that"
• Father's lesson: "You win on price, you lose on price"

[00:22:40] Dr. Anthony Levitt: Beautiful Humility

• Gave agency to people who weren't clinically trained, wanted to learn from them
• Admitted "we're failing people, we need to do better" instead of defending system
• Such beautiful humility about him wanting to learn

[00:23:40] Grassroots Organization Still Going Strong Since 2012

• Built organization that's served thousands of families
• Has funding, clinical research, evidence-based outcomes
• Leaders not just nationally but internationally with this model of care
• Dr. Levitt's philosophy: "The government leads by following"

[00:25:20] Lives Saved Through Being There

• Been in situations where had she not been there in right moment, person wouldn't be here today
• Meets people in their darkest moments, sometimes requires heavy lifting
• Testimonials from family members: "You literally saved my daughter's life"

[00:26:20] Compassionate Persistence

• Everyone does it in their own timeline, have to respect that
• Not top-down authoritarian approach—some people need more time
• "Compassionate persistence": stay with them until they get what they need

[00:28:20] Triggers Are Learning Opportunities

• Closer relationships trigger us most, but triggers can be good thing
• Learning opportunities to do better, show up differently
• People we love most can be most challenging, but they're opportunities for beautiful learning

[00:28:40] 100% Personal Responsibility

• Have to take 100% responsibility, each of us—no 50/50
• When we take personal responsibility, we put control in our hands
• We build walls to protect our hearts, but can't let anything good in either
• Being seen, validated, heard for what we need is important part of healing

KEY QUOTES

"We know what to do with broken hearts in cardiology, but we don't know what to do with broken hearts." - Jeanne Foot

"Rapport is the number one indicator of success. People think it's therapeutic expertise—it's not. If you don't have rapport with someone, you can't go anywhere." - Jeanne Foot

"Triggers can be a good thing. They can be learning opportunities for us to do better, to show up differently. We all have blind spots, and the people we love the most sometimes can be the most challenging in our relationships." - Jeanne Foot

CONNECT WITH JEANNE FOOT

🌐 Website: https://www.therecoveryconcierge.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-foot-the-recovery-concierge

📱 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanne.foot

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What if charitable giving opens you up to a new world of purpose and meaning you didn't know you had access to?

In this episode, John Bromley shares how he helps donors navigate and participate comfortably in the giving world as a "charity banker." John is the founder and CEO of Charitable Impact, Canada's first fully online donor-advised fund, which has facilitated over $1.5 billion in charitable donations since its inception in 2011. Growing up in a family deeply engaged in philanthropy, John was inspired by his father, renowned charity lawyer Blake Bromley, to pursue a career in creating impact. He began in corporate finance with PwC and RBC Capital Markets before transitioning to the charitable sector in his mid-to-late twenties, where he recognized the need for a simpler, more effective giving platform. John's innovative approach has earned him recognition as a TEDx speaker, a "Forty Under 40" honoree, and recipient of the CEO Community Leadership Award. Committed to cultivating generosity, John continues to empower individuals and organizations to make meaningful change through philanthropy. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a dedicated community leader, soccer coach, and proud father of two.

John reveals the relationship that transformed him: his father Blake Bromley, one of the global pioneers of charity law and finance in Canada, who taught John everything he needed to know to become a charity banker not through formal education but through osmosis during car rides to sports games every weekend, where John thought he was tuning out boring workplace talk but was actually absorbing years of expertise that no textbook could teach, leading to John's realization in his late twenties that his dad possessed unique knowledge that became the foundation for Charitable Impact and John's ability to help donors go from thinking about $200,000 gifts to creating private foundations with $15 million.

[00:05:00] I'm a Charity Banker

• Acts like private banker to donors (individuals or organizations)
• Gives access to knowledge about how to go about giving
• Brings tools and team members to help
• Founder and CEO of Charitable Impact (donor-advised fund)

[00:05:40] How a Charity Bank Works

• People give money in, get tax receipt right away
• Can determine how to use those charity dollars to create impact they want
• Role is entrepreneur who founded it, gives vision and mission
• There because people with great hearts, minds, deep wallets never had anywhere to go for neutral advice

[00:06:40] Inspired by Seeing Others Become Inspired

• Charitable giving opens people to new world of purpose and meaning
• About investing time, talent, and money into things you care most about
• Having impact with your time, talent, and money
• Coached soccer for years, grateful for opportunity to do it

[00:07:40] Getting More Out Than You Put In

• Really good donors get more out of it than they think they put in
• First time doing anything, you're not gonna be whiz kid
• Takes time and focus
• People who learn to have joy and gratitude become best donors

[00:10:40] Making Intentional Giving Part of Everyday Life

• Vision at Charitable Impact: make intentional giving part of everyday life
• Quantum of money isn't as important
• Type of cause they choose isn't important to him
• Like banker shouldn't care what specific stocks someone chooses

[00:11:40] From Sporadic to Intentional Giver

• Inspired when someone goes from not being giver to proactive giver
• From only reacting to being asked for money to building giving into their life
• Whether using time, talents, and/or money
• Like fitness banker trying to get people off couch

[00:14:00] Be Open to Help

• Blessed to have had many encounters with people who had material impact
• If talking to younger self: you've gotta be open to help and feedback
• Don't have to accept it all, but have to listen to it
• One person stands out head and shoulders above everyone else

[00:14:40] Didn't Recognize Until Almost 30

• Key mentor in his life was his father
• Didn't recognize dad played that role until almost 30
• Not just because dad was good dad who loved and nurtured him
• Where do you learn what you need to know to become a charity banker?

[00:15:20] One of Two Serious Pioneers

• Father was one of arguably two serious pioneers of charity law and finance in Canada
• In charity nerd community (very small), dad is known globally
• He's one of global experts in the space
• Here he is, just my dad

[00:16:00] The Career Change Conversation

• Graduated university, started in corporate finance and investment banking
• Left after several years, not being culture fit
• Started interacting with dad about changing career mid-to-late twenties
• Accidental pathway led to realizing dad knows stuff you can't read online

[00:17:20] Learning from Osmosis

• Played ton of sports growing up, every weekend dad took him to games
• Dad yapping about charity stuff going on in his workplace
• John thinking: in one ear out the next, boring
• Now realise: how much did I learn from osmosis?

[00:19:20] The $15 Million Superpower

• Dad's superpower: donor comes in thinking $50-100K, maybe $200K
• Two months later, leaving with private foundation with $15 million in it
• Rooted in relationship development and expertise
• John has had few scenarios where this happened

[00:20:20] Seeing Beyond the Barriers

• People come in wanting to make giving part of how family does things
• Starting with what sounds like relatively low money
• Shifting how they think about it, making large structured contributions
• Growth mindset in philanthropic advisory space

[00:22:40] Increasing Access to Participation

• Mission: increase access to participation in and benefit people feel from giving
• Not about going from 200K to 15 million
• About going from never giving to starting to give $100 a month
• It's the action to participate and start that matters

[00:24:00] Like Building a Bank

• Banks might make more money off high net worth clients
• But banks don't exist without tens of thousands of small depositors
• Real interest is helping people get in and stay in game
• Regardless of money or causes they want to create impact for

[00:26:00] The Workshop That Changed Everything

• Kevin started family foundation in 2008 to avoid big tax bill
• Friend Jeff Ziegler told him to start foundation and get 501(c)(3) status
• Went to workshop in 2009, heard foundation owners talking about what they're doing
• Wanted to start experiencing that

[00:26:40] Jamaica Orphanage and Family Sponsorship

• Kevin's foundation supports Jamaica orphanage, visits every year
• Gives each of four older kids access to foundation debit card
• They choose family through food bank or church to sponsor
• Buy what kids want and need, groceries

[00:27:20] I Wish This Was My Job

• Oldest daughter after first year: "I wish this was my job all the time"
• So incredibly rewarding for them
• Take kids to Jamaica orphanage, they experience what those kids are like
• On bus ride back, kids saying "we got it really good, Dad"

[00:28:20] Three Beliefs at Charitable Impact

• Everyone has something in world they want to create change for
• Everyone has something to give toward creating that change (time, talent, treasure)
• When you give, you get something in return
• This third belief is under-focused on

[00:29:40] Selfish Reasons to Give

• How do you learn you have it well if not exposed to these things?
• Creates opportunity, learning, meaning, and purpose in your own life
• It's not just about benefiting community
• No one focuses on this, but they should

[00:30:00] You Don't Stay in Jobs You Don't Like

• Do you live in a house you hate? Probably not
• Eat foods you hate? Play sports you don't like?
• Of course not - you do things you enjoy
• Important to see philanthropy that way

[00:32:40] Intention vs. Action

• Intention is critically important, big fan of intention
• But it's action, doing stuff in real world that creates change
• Can't just think about it
• Philanthropy is like exercise or eating well - you have to actually do it

[00:33:20] You Don't Have to Be Perfect

• Don't have to work out hours every day
• Can be incremental, small part of who you are
• But you actually have to do something
• When you do, you get something in return

[00:33:40] The One Thing They Don't Regret

• Seasoned philanthropists, particularly as they get older
• Never heard anyone regret spending time, talent, money on things they care about
• Partly because of how much they get out of it
• By so doing

[00:34:20] Being in Control of Where Money Goes

• Can choose instead of paying it all in taxes
• Give to organization or something you believe in and want to support
• Take proactive step and give it there instead
• We can totally choose that

[00:36:00] Dad, Thank You and I Love You

• John gives shout out to his father
• Thanks him for everything
• Says "I love you"
• Beautiful moment honoring his dad

KEY QUOTES

"Charitable giving opens them up to this new world of purpose and meaning. It's really about investing your time and talent and money into the things that you care most about, that you love." - John Bromley

"Really good donors get more out of it than they think they put in. The people who learn to have joy and gratitude from giving become the best donors." - John Bromley

"When you give, you get something in return. It's about creating opportunity and learning and meaning and purpose in your own life." - John Bromley

CONNECT WITH JOHN BROMLEY

🌐 Website: https://www.charitableimpact.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbromley

📱 Social Media: @wearecharitable

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What if community is currency and you can never truly be broke?

In this episode, Eric Farewell shares how he helps founders grow their businesses while staying grounded in purpose, presence, and resilience. Eric is an entrepreneur, author, and somatic business coach who has built industry-shaping brands like Aviator Paramotor and National STOL. He's a devoted husband and father of three whose journey through loss, injury, and burnout led him to redefine what success truly means. Eric retired at 35 (four years ago) after 26 years of building businesses since age 13. In his book Farewell to Normal and through his coaching with the Royals Mastermind, Eric helps founders cut their efforts by at least 50% while doubling revenue. His work week is usually about 90 minutes, allowing him to be deeply present with his family and use the wisdom of his experience instead of the abilities of his brain. Eric moved halfway across the country to be closer to his community in Texas, specifically the Front Row Dads mastermind. He's on the board of Rising Man, which specializes in Native American style rites of passage for men and boys.

Eric reveals the relationships that transformed him: his wife, who for 16 years of marriage has reminded him he's a good man and makes good decisions, keeping him from the brink more times than he can count when their marriage was in crisis before they found therapy and somatic work; his first mentor Alex Ozzi, whom he met at an internet marketing conference at age 13 and followed puppy dog style, moving to California and living in his garage from ages 13 to 21, learning that having a mentor who's where you want to go is absolutely imperative; and his Front Row Dads community in Texas (especially Jason Bro who challenges him more than anyone and gives him more love from another man than he's ever received), teaching him that community is currency and you need mentors, coaches you pay way too much for, and community that builds you up and holds you accountable when you fail.

[00:03:40] Retired at 35

• Retired four years ago at age 35, been building businesses since age 13
• This is not first retirement but this one actually took
• For him, addiction to producing was tied directly to childhood abuse and trauma
• Four years ago realized he didn't need to be the best worker to matter anymore

[00:04:20] Serving Entrepreneurs Who Want More

• Stepped down as CEO, moved halfway across country from companies two years ago
• Work week is usually about 90 minutes, using wisdom of experience instead of abilities of brain
• Serves entrepreneurs and founders who are waking up spiritually
• Goal: Cut efforts by 50%, increase revenue by double (some reduce hours 70-80%)

[00:05:40] Legacy Is Relationships

• Most proud of clients reducing hours 70-80% while increasing revenue
• Legacy is not money in bank account, it's relationships with people and family
• Marriage was in crisis (relationship is over, how do we cut things apart)
• Found therapy and somatic work, now have best relationship he can imagine

[00:07:00] The Hardest Year but the Happiest

• Hardest year in at least last nine years (financially, emotionally, death in family)
• Got dozed in February, tariffed in April, had to lay off half of team
• Production truck and trailer flipped in Montana, caught fire, burned to ground
• Because of the work he's done, genuinely the happiest he's ever been

[00:08:20] Started Selling Airplanes on the Internet

• Started in 1999 selling airplanes on this new thing called the internet
• ADHD kids not designed to build airplanes, so sold them instead
• Turned into hundreds of airplanes sold over next five years
• Became internet marketing career, retired from that at 23

[00:09:00] Flying as First Form of Therapy

• Flying was first taste of perspective shift (like Burning Man or therapy for others)
• Astronauts call it the overlook effect
• Built para motor flight school, manufacturing business, media company, aircraft racing series
• Many clients will never go to therapy, but flying is great tool for them

[00:09:40] Losing His Brother Changed Everything

• Seven years ago lost his brother at age 22 (had three-month-old son)
• Brother was first employee at Aviator
• Huge wake up call about what really mattered
• Had been chasing constantly moving goalposts (million, 5 million, 10 million, 25 million)

[00:10:20] Logo Tattooed on Bodies Worldwide

• Logo tattooed on ton of bodies all over the world
• Clients call it a family, vociferous fans, massive fans
• Racing series has one part-time employee and 1600 volunteers
• For-profit business with volunteers who believe in mission and love community

[00:10:40] Why Do I Work a Hundred Hours a Week?

• Started journey looking inward at why he does this
• Would work 100 hours a week then crash every three months into fever
• Got vasectomy, was back on field working 24 hours later
• Worked that way because that's where he felt loved

[00:11:20] Presence Is the Core of Everything

• Realized presence is the core of everything
• Presence is the absence of fear, love's antithesis of fear
• Presence is truest version of love you can give yourself and world
• Everything else good in life is byproduct of choice to be deeply present

[00:13:00] Living with the Pain

• For 22 years used alcohol as primary numbing agent for pain
• Broken back twice, five radiated discs, broken vertebrae (was test pilot)
• Haven't had drink in almost two weeks, got curious about living with discomfort
• Doesn't want anything that ties him to fear, so sitting in the pain

[00:16:40] Wife Kept Him from the Brink

• Number one most valuable relationship is his wife
• For 16 years of marriage, reminds him he's a good man who makes good decisions
• Her guidance and encouragement kept him from brink more times than he can count
• Marriage went from crisis to best relationship through therapy and somatic work

[00:17:00] Following Alex Ozzi at 13

• At 13 got first mentor, went to internet marketing conference, met Alex Ozzi
• Followed him puppy dog style, begged to make coffee, carry briefcase
• Ended up moving to California, living in his garage
• Followed him conference to conference from ages 13 to 21

[00:17:20] The Three Things You Need

• Mentor who is where you want to go, who's lived life you want to live
• Coach you pay way too much money to (makes it uncomfortable so you follow through)
• Community that builds you up and holds you accountable when you fail
• Those three things are absolute must

[00:18:20] Moving to Texas for Community

• Moved halfway across country because community is in Texas
• Found mastermind called Front Row Dads (John Broman) focused on family
• Came to Texas with family, realized more friends here than Florida
• Five weeks later moved here to double down on having men who challenge him

[00:18:40] Jason Bro Gives More Hell Than Anyone

• Jason Bro (CEO at Ma) gives more hell than anyone else Eric's met
• Also gives more love than Eric's ever received from another man
• Deeply present, engaged, challenges the crap out of him
• Wants relationships that challenge him to be best version and pick him up

[00:22:00] Cooking for Everyone

• Grew up in French restaurant, started working there at age seven
• Worked every position from line cook to dishwasher to bartender
• At Aviator, if you're learning to fly, you ate meal Eric prepared first day
• At National STOL, cook for 100-200 people three meals a day (all volunteers)

[00:22:40] The Moment He No Longer Had to Carry the Energy

• Sat down for lunch at Aviator with about 30 people
• Someone sat next to him and asked "So what do you do here?"
• They didn't know he was founder or CEO
• That's the moment he no longer had to carry energy of whole organization

[00:23:00] Community Is Currency

• From Preston Smiles and Garin Jones (Garin Oay): "Community is currency"
• So many people fear going broke, not having enough, failing
• Problem is fear based on tangible idea that universe is finite (it's not)
• When you have community, you can't ever truly be broke

[00:23:40] Millions Lost This Year

• Father-in-law hung himself, business suffered massively from canceled contracts and tariffs
• Millions and millions of dollars lost this year
• Yet in community, realized he's building coaching program with incredible people
• Doesn't do social media marketing, no interest in being that person ever again

[00:24:40] Asking for Withdrawals

• Community only becomes currency when you ask for support
• Garin said: "You're not asking for help. Biggest bridges are suspension bridges, need support"
• Each of us in different places in lives, can offer different levels of support
• In mastermind, do ton of testing (Gene Keys, Human Design, Enneagram, Kolby, Working Genius)

[00:25:00] Partnering People's Genius

• If someone is high quick start and another is high fact finder, partner them
• Quick start can temper fact finder, fact finder can challenge quick start
• Same thing exists in relationships
• All you have to do is ask for support because rising tide lifts all ships

[00:26:00] Michael Dash Asked Where He Could Help

• Michael Dash asked where he could help
• Eric said he loves being on podcasts if Michael has any friends
• That was an invitation Michael offered
• Not natural for Eric, he'd rather give support (then he's in control, can't be turned down)

[00:27:00] Jesse Elder's Lesson on Giving

• Jesse pointed out: when you give to someone who appreciates it, amazing feeling
• But by not allowing others to give to you, you're depriving them of same experience
• It's stealing from them
• Can't have one-sided relationship, there must be reciprocity

[00:30:00] The 65-Foot Boat Experience

• Client Michael concerned about how he'd contribute to Kevin's event
• Two days later called back with idea: offer 65-foot boat for Seattle water experience
• Could have been time when Kevin said "you don't need to do that"
• Would have been worst thing for Michael who put two days of thought into it

[00:32:20] The Truth of the Last Year

• Wrote second book, realized first 10 chapters sounded like hero's journey
• Wrote afterward about reality: all the hardships of last year
• These things are still hard, difference is capacity to be present with them
• Learning that level of intimacy changes every relationship

[00:33:00] Most Masculine Thing You Can Do

• Learning to ask in way that's not demeaning of masculinity or polarity
• Most masculine thing: truly open visor and show what's inside
• Show your fear, show your pain, be with someone and let them see
• They can hold it

[00:34:00] The Royals Mastermind

• Group for men and women who want to step into their king or queen energy
• Not overwhelmed, not living in fear or anxiety
• Deeply present with all that is
• End goal: businesses that work to support us, build legacies that matter

[00:35:00] The Deeper Relationship

• There may be deeper relationship you've overlooked: relationship with yourself
• While outside relationships deeply important, they help us see reflections of ourselves
• Relationship we carry for who we are, for honoring our challenges is most difficult
• There's deeper layer of connection to self

KEY QUOTES

"Community is currency. So many people fear going broke, not having enough, that they will fail. The problem is we have this fear based on this tangible idea. The universe is finite. And it's not. The universe is infinite. When you have community, you can't ever truly be broke." - Eric Farewell (quoting Preston Smiles and Garin Jones)

"You're not asking for help. The biggest bridges in the world are suspension bridges. They need support from others, and each of us are in different places in our lives and can offer different levels of support." - Garin Jones (shared by Eric Farewell)

"If you are not allowing others to pour into you the way you pour into them, it's a one-sided relationship. There is no reciprocity, and that's the deepest part of a relationship." - Eric Farewell

CONNECT WITH ERIC FAREWELL

🌐 Website: https://www.ericfarewell.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericfarewell

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-farewell-0386683

✈️ Aviator PPG: https://www.aviatorppg.com

📚 Book: "Farewell to Normal"

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If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe!

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What if your 11% success rate means you're absolutely crushing it?

In this episode, Paul Kirchoff shares how he helps small growth businesses and their leaders accelerate success through EPX Global, a breakthrough AI-centric acceleration platform and ecosystem. As an avid entrepreneur, investor, and global adventurer, Paul is the founder and CEO of EPX Global, where members around the world drive faster business success, max out amazing experiences, and push individual performance to new levels. Paul is also the Founder and CEO of DominoOne, an impact accelerator and crowdsourced problem-solving platform. Paul built two marketing software/agency companies and multi-billion dollar business units at Dell Computer Corporation as an early employee. He's a member of the 113-year-old Explorers Club, DJs electronic music, wrote a corporate thriller novel (giving proceeds to cancer research), and made a film about racism. Paul is developing frontier-level expertise in operationalizing artificial intelligence across the enterprise in every department.

Paul reveals two relationships that transformed him in ways nobody has ever answered this question before: a Mongolian eagle hunter he met in the far eastern corner of Mongolia, an older gentleman who had zero knowledge of America, spoke no English, and lived in a yurt with horses and golden eagles as pets, teaching Paul about authentic human connection beyond labels and systems, which became the core culture he built into his technology platform where single moms are valued equally with astronauts; and a police officer who arrested him at 32 after a casual happy hour (though Paul was sober), leading to community service at a center for the deaf and blind where he spent weeks rewinding VHS tapes while listening to thought leaders teach cutting-edge SEO and digital marketing, which gave him the advanced knowledge to start his marketing agency that became successful and sold 13 years later, ultimately leading to his trip to Mongolia and the realization he needed to build EPX Global.

[00:04:00] What Paul Does at EPX Global

• Tech veteran CEO with many startups, sold companies, shut down companies
• Early employee at Dell Computer Corporation before anyone in Austin knew who Michael Dell was
• Built EPX Global as AI-centric ecosystem for small growth businesses and their leaders
• Heavy artificial intelligence expertise helping companies accelerate success, health, and experiences

[00:05:00] Making Everything Go Faster

• Helps accelerate time to best performance unique to genetics on health side
• Helps companies accelerate success with AI, connections, and knowledge
• Makes sure people don't forget to dance under the Milky Way because life is short

[00:06:00] Living in Service of Others

• Used to be financial goals and status symbols when younger, none of that matters now
• Addicted to a blank sheet of paper, gifted to solve or invent anything
• Respect for fellow humans (all a unit of one on their own unique journey)
• Living in service of others by replicating himself with technology

[00:07:00] Building a Top Marketing Agency

• Built and sold one of top demand generation agencies in world
• Controlled front page of Google, Facebook called asking how they converted traffic
• Always on cutting edge of deploying technology in marketing (technical + psychology)

[00:08:20] AI Systems for Every Business Size

• Wanted to build AI systems for small businesses (missing factor for 10x resources)
• Also doing business transformation consulting for billion-dollar companies
• Helping bigger companies go from where they are to AI-first operations

[00:09:20] The 60% Revenue Increase Every Month

• Networking ecosystem connects people to solutions for health, happiness, business, capital
• People battling depression got connected to biohacking guys, transformed their lives
• One client company 60-70% higher revenue every single month with zero change to headcount

[00:11:00] Being the X Factor

• AI systems deployed handle support, become AI salesperson, become AI marketing team
• Small businesses can grow beyond traditional chains with 10x resources
• All about being X factor in people's lives or facilitating X factor with someone else

[00:14:00] The 11% Success Rate Discovery

• Expert guest on platform said his success rate is 14% (very successful guy)
• Paul did the math on his own attempts, came out to 11% success rate
• Entrepreneurs put enormous pressure on themselves, need different perspective

[00:16:00] Trust in an AI World

• Real meaningful relationships becoming more and more valuable with AI
• Building networking assistant governed by user (uses your reasoning to find value)
• Human connection and that magnetic field around our hearts makes us who we are

[00:19:40] When Social Media Became Entertainment

• Facebook, Instagram, TikTok devolved into micro entertainment channels (not networking)
• Feeds filled with ads and sponsored posts, no actual networking
• EPX Global has no ads, every connection based on merit of what you want

[00:20:20] Photorealistic Fake Content

• AI video (Sora, Veo) can create photorealistic content that's completely fake
• Consumer backlash coming for authenticity in connections
• Business will embrace AI efficiency (hyper-efficient usually wins)

[00:23:00] Two People, No Names

• Never anyone Paul looks up to or admires or wants to be like who affected his life
• Been blessed to meet incredible people (Pope, Richard Branson's Island, etc.)
• Two people come to mind that transformed everything
• Both people Paul has no idea where they are or their names

[00:24:20] Far Eastern Mongolia

• Was entrepreneur working 14 hours a day for decade plus, one-trick pony success
• Knew needed to desperately change something, chose adventure
• Took group to far eastern corner of Mongolia to ride horses with eagle hunters
• Met older gentleman in yurt who had zero knowledge of America or United States

[00:25:40] The Man with Golden Eagles

• Man spoke zero English, wore fox neck tie, had pet golden eagles (40 pounds)
• Paul realized this is furthest from his life as tech guy (opposite side of life)
• Both excited to meet each other as new friends with zero in common

[00:27:00] Single Moms and Astronauts

• Brought that spiritualness and core value into network he built
• Despite super achievers (swimming oceans, skiing Everest, gold medals), none of that matters
• Single mom raising five good kids might be more impressive than astronaut

[00:27:40] The Saturday Night Traffic Stop

• At 32, coming out of casual happy hour, got pulled over
• Told officer honestly: "I had two drinks over last hour, I'm clearly fine"
• Officer said he seemed like nice guy but made him do sobriety test
• Got arrested and taken downtown (was actually sober, officer kept saying he was nicest person)

[00:28:40] Community Service for the Deaf and Blind

• Offered to do community service to get charge expunged
• Chose center for deaf and blind, job was rewinding VHS tapes in warehouse
• Asked supervisor if he could listen to music, supervisor said yes

[00:29:20] SEO Lessons in His Ears

• Instead of music, put in thought leaders teaching SEO and digital marketing
• For weeks on end, hours a day, learning cutting-edge techniques from pioneers
• After that, was so advanced in knowledge that led to starting agency
• Agency became successful and powerful, sold it 13 years later

[00:30:00] The Chain of Events

• If officer hadn't arrested him, wouldn't have had that learning experience
• Wouldn't have had confidence to start agency that got him burnt out
• Wouldn't have gone to Mongolia and realized need to build network

[00:31:00] In the Canyon Before the Summit

• At the time was devastated, seemed horrible (younger without perspective)
• Now incredibly grateful it happened
• When in the canyon, you're about to go to the summit

[00:32:20] When Identity Gets Wrapped Up

• Greatest risk to mental health is when identity tied to something other than happiness
• If identity wrapped up in labels (AI whisperer, top guy), devastated when things go wrong
• Separate identity from accomplishments to stomach any ups and downs

[00:38:00] The Leader in the Back

• AI exercise: meditate on what you look like as future leader
• Paul's image: crowd moving down valley, Paul in the back (slightly bigger)
• Leader in back can move crowds (not showing off Maserati or boat)

[00:39:00] A Multitude of Miracles

• However someone gets through life (good/bad parents, heartbreak, etc.) shapes them
• Everyone made it to this one moment in time (mathematically massive miracle)
• When you respect everyone like that, you operate without ability to judge or be judged

[00:39:40] Operating Without Fear

• When you don't judge or feel judged, you operate without expectations
• Without expectations means without fear of future negative ramifications
• Can be yourself, be present, love everybody, still compete

KEY QUOTES

"I did the math and my success rate is like 11%. And I feel like I'm fairly successful, right? I've learned to not really give a shit about what your definition of success is." - Paul Kirchoff

"There's zero in common, zero knowledge about each other. And it was one of the most remarkable moments because it shows you this level of connection that's possible when you drop labels and systems and passports and everything else." - Paul Kirchoff

"If that guy wouldn't have arrested me, I wouldn't have started an agency, wouldn't have gotten burnt out, wouldn't have gone to Mongolia, and wouldn't be on this call today." - Paul Kirchoff

CONNECT WITH PAUL KIRCHOFF

🌐 Website: https://www.epx.global

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paulkirchoff1014

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulkirchoff

✉️ Email: kirch@epxglobal.com

🤖 AI Business Systems: https://epxmax.ai

Thanks for tuning in!

If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe!

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What if hearing God speak to you in the last row of a church saved you from losing everything?

In this episode, James Brown shares how he helps professional service business owners scale their businesses without sacrificing their lives through Business Accelerator Institute and Perseverance Squared. After launching his first business in 1994 and rapidly expanding to $8M in annual revenue, James transitioned to coaching in 2014 and has now guided over 450 business owners to significant growth. He launched Small Law Firm University, growing it to $3 million in revenue within a year, and developed a CMO program generating an additional $2 million annually. James holds a Business degree from Lindenwood University (1989) and JD from St. Louis University (1993). In 2009, he was selected as one of America's Top 20 Premier Experts and featured in USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek. James believes all businesses have the same seven working parts, and the only difference is what they sell.

James reveals three relationships that transformed him: his wife Sherry, whom he's known since age three when they met in her mom's beauty salon, who believed in him when everyone else said he couldn't achieve his dreams and stood by him through 41 years including his darkest moments; his mentor Darrell Castle, a Memphis-based lawyer who taught him to reject the "cookie cutter" approach and build a business on his own terms, showing him that all businesses share seven working parts regardless of what they sell; and God, whom he encountered in March 2015 after hitting rock bottom (drinking excessively, making terrible choices, nearly losing everything) when a random stranger invited him to church where he heard God speak to him in the last row as the only white person in an all-Black congregation, completely transforming his perspective and leading him to sell his law firm to help other business owners build lives of purpose.

[00:04:20] What James Does at Business Accelerator Institute

• Helps owners of professional service businesses scale predictably and profitably
• Focuses on building businesses that serve owners, not the other way around
• Has helped over 450 business owners achieve this transformation

[00:05:20] The Defining Moment with His Wife

• Second year in business, struggling financially, client asked for refund
• Wife said: "At the end of the day, you do what's right and everything else will follow"
• That statement still resonates 30 years later and drives his mission to help more people

[00:07:20] How Clients Find Him

• Primarily word of mouth and brand touches through Interview Valet (on 40 podcasts this year)
• Results speak for themselves without traditional marketing
• Recent client: 69-year-old Alabama lawyer practicing 50 years, never broke $500K, just hit $1M this year

[00:11:00] The Unorthodox Path to Success

• Known wife Sherry since age three, met in her mom's beauty salon
• Parents married at 16, kicked James out at 19 when he announced marriage
• Told his whole childhood he was "too heavy" to do things, couldn't play sports
• Made varsity football first year as junior, played four years (nobody in family graduated college)

[00:12:40] Working His Way Through Law School

• Got job at General Motors assembly line, 6 AM to 2:30 PM, went to school 4 PM to 11 PM for 10 years
• Right before graduating law school, GM announced plant closure
• Sent out 300 resumes, got zero responses with three kids (ages 5, 2, and 1)
• Forced to start business by necessity, not by choice

[00:14:00] Meeting Mentor Darrell Castle

• Lawyers conditioned that marketing is "beneath them"
• Darrell taught him to look at business differently, be different
• Showed him all businesses have same seven working parts (only difference is what they sell)
• Set up business around not working past 4:30 PM from day one

[00:15:40] Building the $8M Law Practice

• First rule: Business open till 7 PM and Saturdays, but James wasn't there
• Hired people and built systems so business ran without him
• Grew to $8 million annually with offices in four different states

[00:16:40] The Dark Years: Getting Too Big for His Britches

• Started making bad choices despite success (never drank until his 40s)
• First drink was Irish car bomb followed by 10 kamikaze shots
• Started spending money on wrong things, went to strip clubs, cheated on wife
• Wife and him separated, she went on cruise with daughter

[00:18:20] The Divine Encounter That Changed Everything

• March 2015: Drunk at wine bar, random stranger invited him to church next morning
• Went to that church by himself Sunday morning, sat in last row
• Only white person in all-Black church, heard God speak to him
• Never saw that stranger again (believes he was an angel)

[00:19:40] The Wake-Up Call

• Wife told him: "God gives you hints, and if you don't listen, at some point He's going to slap you across the face"
• Nearly lost everything (wife, business, all going downhill)
• That March 2015 moment was most influential person: God
• Decided to sell law firm and start helping other business owners

[00:20:20] The Leap of Faith

• Worked for another company making $330,000 a year coaching business owners
• 2018: At conference in Jacksonville, told them he was leaving, called wife from airport
• Goal: Get nine private clients in 60 days to replace income (took nine days)
• First year did just under $1 million in business

[00:22:40] The Catalyst Moments

• After coaching calls, often sits there thinking "who was that guy?"
• Works with business owners from $250K to $100M annually
• Stopped questioning who he is to coach $100M business owners
• Been blessed with certain gifts and has faith they will continue

[00:24:00] The Lesson of Not Labeling Setbacks

• Example: Payroll in two days is $15K, only $1K in operating account
• Freaking out keeps you from being creative and finding solutions
• Takes everything as exactly as it's meant to be and learns from it

[00:27:40] The Live Event Revelation

• $10M, $50M, $100M business owners at tables with under-$500K owners
• Big business owners worried they wouldn't learn from "smaller" ones
• $50M and $100M owners took just as many notes (smaller businesses still nimble and innovative)
• Realized everyone can gain something from each other regardless of revenue size

[00:30:00] When Is Enough, Enough?

• Just turned 60, my wife asked "when is enough, enough?"
• The Mastermind member asked: "What's your goal?" Answer: "To help people"
• "How many people on the planet? Are you ever gonna run out of people to help?"
• Never gonna run out (also volunteers through Red Cross deploying to disasters)

[00:32:00] Building Business Accelerator Institute

• Can only work with so many people one-on-one before hitting bandwidth
• Goal: Give business owners Harvard-level business degree without Harvard-level dollars
• Over 55 four-week courses addressing all seven parts of business
• $249/month, includes two-hour open office hours every Wednesday

[00:35:00] Final Wisdom: You're the Average of the Five

• Don't pay attention to what other people say, surround yourself with people who inspire you
• "You're the average of the five people you hang out with the most—and it's true"
• Example: Son played goalie since age 5, adapted performance to level of teammates around him
• Hang around like-minded individuals who inspire you to go where you want to go

KEY QUOTES

"At the end of the day, you do what's right and everything else will follow." - Sherry Brown

"All businesses have the same seven working parts. Literally the only thing that's different is what we sell. The concept of running a very successful business and scaling it is simple. I'm very intentional with that word. I'm never gonna say it's easy, but the concept is simple." - James Brown

CONNECT WITH JAMES BROWN

🌐 Website: https://www.businessaccelerator.institute/mdr

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/businessacceleratorinstitute

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/businessacceleratorinstitute

📚 Book: Co-author of "Shift Happens"

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What if witnessing 10 deaths in 23 years changed your view on life?

In this episode, Kyle Skalisky shares how he helps teams build cultures of trust, respect, and accountability through his company Wyld Sky Aerospace and Management Consulting. After 23 years as a fighter pilot (F-15, F-16 aggressor, and F-18 in operational flight tests) and 15 years in the aerospace industry doing flight tests, Kyle recently stepped down as president and CEO of Check Six Aero Solutions to focus on giving back. His book "A Skyless Traveled: A Maverick Life of Leadership, Resilience, and the Pursuit of Purpose" shares lessons learned from the cockpit about building exceptional teams. Kyle believes good teams need three things: character (how people treat those who can do nothing for them), competence (people who can get the job done and are willing to learn), and commitment to the mission. He also wrote the book for his six and four-year-old sons, wanting to leave something showing what their father did for 50 years before they were born.

Kyle reveals three relationships that shaped him: meeting President Ronald Reagan at his Air Force Academy graduation in 1984, whose speech about being solution-oriented rather than a naysayer set the tone for his career; his parents who married at 16, had six kids by 29, and just celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary teaching him dedication and never giving up on people; and his best friend Malibu, a talented pilot who died at 30 when he hit the ground during a Red Flag exercise. Witnessing 10-11 deaths in 23 years of flying changed Kyle's perspective—he stopped worrying about what people thought and started pursuing what brought joy, realizing that if no one will remember it in five years, it's just not that important.

[00:04:20] From CEO to Giving Back

• Recently stepped down as president and CEO of Check Six Aero Solutions
• Now runs Wyld Sky Aerospace and Management Consulting
• Wrote book "A Skyless Traveled: A Maverick Life of Leadership, Resilience, and the Pursuit of Purpose"
• Serves wonderful wife Dr. Kyra Carpenter and two boys Wilder (6) and Colt (4)

[00:06:00] Why Write the Book

• Experience is great but people never get opportunity to pass it on to next generation
• All people's stories are wonderful, wishes more could tell them
• Wants to lift up next generation that will follow
• Wrote book for his 6 and 4-year-old boys as older father

[00:06:40] Leaving a Legacy

• Doesn't know how long he gets to be with boys growing up
• Wanted to leave something showing 50 years before they were born
• Show what their father did and what he believed in
• Pass message down to true legacy: children and family

[00:07:20] Growing Up in Wenatchee, Washington

• Parents married at 16, had six children by 29
• Didn't have much but knew wanted to do something bigger
• Didn't fly on airplane until 17 years old, senior in high school
• First flight was to Air Force Academy physical at Whidbey Island

[00:08:00] The First Flight That Changed Everything

• Had state playoff baseball game that afternoon across state
• Local orchardist Jim Wade flew him in Cessna 172
• Flying over Cascade Mountains, seeing Mount Rainier was transformative
• Changed into uniform in car, was third batter, hit three-run homer off future major leaguer

[00:09:00] Air Force Academy and Finding His Passion

• Second time flying was leaving for US Air Force Academy (only way to get to college)
• Got exposed to things small town guy never traveled beyond family station wagon
• Found passion for flying airplanes at young age
• Stumbled into it with no idea it would be 23 years as fighter pilot

[00:10:00] Fighter Pilot Career

• Flew F-15 operationally around the world for 23 years
• Was F-16 aggressor (adversary/bad guy that trains combat pilots)
• Did exchange tour with US Navy, flew F-18 in operational flight tests
• Retired after 23 years, went to Raytheon

[00:10:40] Entrepreneurial Years

• Owned Great Harvest Bread company franchise (had a bakery)
• Co-owner of pro indoor football league team in Spokane
• Taught him when it's your own money, think more about spending it
• Helped when managing other people's money at Raytheon and Mitsubishi

[00:13:20] Proudest Moment: The Team That Didn't Need Me

• At Raytheon, experimental R&D test airplane transitioning from single customer
• Customer said they don't want exclusive use anymore, won't pay for it
• Five year task to redefine mission, vision, create new organization
• After five years: "This team doesn't need me anymore, they can do this without me"

[00:14:40] From One Program to 15

• Had to go out and advertise capability to other Raytheon programs
• Restructured team to support multiple test projects instead of just one
• Asset went from supporting one program to 15-16 programs
• Worth billions of dollars in sales to Raytheon

[00:15:40] Mitsubishi: Six Months of Success

• Mitsubishi trying to certify new regional jet, program having problems
• Took over program management and flight test team
• Program for previous 5 years never met schedule or been on budget
• Within first month, for next 6 months straight met schedule and under budget

[00:17:00] Refocusing the Team

• Just through refocusing team, aligning tasks to priorities
• Giving people clear idea of what they did and why important to mission
• Aligned the focus and became best flight test team in business
• Better than Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, Embraer or any large OEMs

[00:19:00] Character, Competence, and Commitment

• Good teams have people full of character (how they treat those who can do nothing for them)
• Team needs competence (people who can get job done, willing to learn and improve)
• Third C is commitment to what they're doing
• Finding right people with all three is when you will succeed

[00:21:20] Meeting President Ronald Reagan

• Air Force Academy graduation 1984, Reagan handed him diploma
• Speech that day embodied how Kyle wanted to live his life
• Not enough to be naysayer pointing out everything wrong
• Have to be person who can bring forward solutions

[00:22:40] Reagan's Impact

• Shaped views about what was valuable throughout life
• Optimistic but understood reality, charismatic but not fake
• Had guiding principles but willing to change
• Genuinely liked people (important for any leader)

[00:24:00] His Parents' Influence

• Parents are who really had impact on who he became
• Never made it feel like they gave up something for kids
• Felt true blessing was getting to have kids in their lives
• Father was athlete of year, worked morning job, bartended at night while in college

[00:25:40] 72 Years Together

• Parents both 88 years old, just had 72nd wedding anniversary
• Even when times are hard, don't give up on people, work through it
• Father didn't become major league player but channeled into coaching
• Oldest brother became professional baseball player with Philadelphia Phillies

[00:27:00] Learning to Live in the Moment

• Finding joy means learning to live in the moment
• Let go of past but learn lessons, don't let it define you
• Don't be so focused on future that you forget what's in front of you
• Take opportunities that may take you on detour in life

[00:28:20] Losing Malibu

• Best friend Jim "Malibu" Reynolds was academy graduate, talented flyer
• Designed and built own aerobatic airplane, flew in air shows
• Made mistake on range in Red Flag exercise, hit ground and died at 30
• Changed Kyle at 30 years old, realized it can all end very quickly

[00:29:40] 10 Deaths in 23 Years

• Saw at least 10-11 deaths in 23 years of flying
• Changed how he looked at things and approached them
• Before worried about everything, how people thought of him
• Now: if no one will remember in 5 years, it's just not that important

[00:33:00] The Squadron Bar Ritual

• Friday nights not just about drinking, it's a ritual
• Chance to bond with people going through similar experience
• Way to relax, find friendship and bonding in non-retribution way
• Learned more in one-on-one conversations than formal meetings

KEY QUOTES

"I wrote a book because I have those six and four-year-old boys. I am an older father and I don't know how long I get to be with those boys growing up. I wanted to leave something to show for those 50 years before they were born, what their father did and what I believed in." - Kyle Skalisky

"Good teams have people full of character. You can't define that on a resume. It's how people treat those who can do nothing for them. But you also have to have competence. Then the third C is commitment." - Kyle Skalisky

CONNECT WITH KYLE SKALISKY

🌐 Website: https://www.wyldsky-consulting.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyle.skalisky

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-skalisky

📚 Book: "A Skyless Traveled: A Maverick Life of Leadership, Resilience, and the Pursuit of Purpose" (available on Amazon)

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What if your journey from poverty to six countries was shaped by stepping stones of relationships?

In this episode, Ghazenfer Mansoor shares how Technology Rivers helps health tech companies build HIPAA compliant software products and helps healthcare service businesses 10x their operations through AI and technology. With a computer science background and experience building a recruitment SaaS company, Ghazenfer started Technology Rivers with one core philosophy: build it right the first time. Too many founders hire developers and end up with never-ending products that keep building but never launch. His team focuses on helping startups with limited money build the right MVP so they can get traction, get customers, and secure more funding. The work creates a double bottom line: supporting businesses solving world problems while creating opportunities and livelihoods for people across six countries.

He reveals that his journey wasn't shaped by one person, but by stepping stones of relationships. Growing up in Pakistan in poverty, mentors and friends guided him toward education and opportunities that eventually brought him to the US. Coaches, entrepreneurial groups like EO, and books like "Who Not How" all shaped his direction. The most powerful story? Exchanging business cards at a conference. Months later, that person called about a project. Over six years, that one card exchange generated close to $2 million in business.

[00:05:20] What Technology Rivers Does

• Software development business serving health tech companies primarily
• Started helping all verticals but gradually focused just on health tech
• Help companies build HIPAA compliant software products
• Work with healthcare service businesses, help them 10x operations through AI and technology

[00:06:00] Build It Right the First Time

• Wanted to fix problem of never-ending products that keep building but never launch
• Companies hiring developers with products that are never ending
• Founders have limited money, need to build right MVP to get traction and funding
• Help startups build products right the first time so they're not broke if it doesn't work

[00:08:00] Creating Double Bottom Line Impact

• Help companies create solutions that solve world's problems
• Every founder working with them is solving something, changing the world
• Also creating opportunities for people supporting those projects
• Team in six different countries, many in growing economies, creating livelihoods

[00:10:20] AI is the Biggest Shift

• Started career in early web, but AI is even much bigger shift
• Mind blowing how things are moving, but also creating opportunities
• Much easier now for people who want to create companies and solutions
• AI not just solving existing problems but bringing new problems to solve

[00:12:00] Journey Shaped by Series of Relationships

• Not just one person, journey shaped by series of relationships as stepping stones
• Growing up in Pakistan, mentor guided him to take risky opportunity
• That opportunity created by colleague in same company
• Friend said "you have to do your master's degree" when Ghazenfer only had diploma

[00:13:00] From Poverty to Possibility

• Friend showed the path, arranged meeting, pushed toward higher education
• Was in poverty, didn't have means for education
• People supported along the way giving opportunities on jobs or introducing to something
• Each opportunity helped get to next step

[00:13:40] Coming to the United States

• Would not have been in US without those opportunities
• Friend introduced to recruiter who was recruiting for company in US
• Coach helped see certain things in way he hadn't seen before
• Entrepreneurial groups (EO, Vistage forums) helped shape journey

[00:14:40] Books That Shaped Direction

• "The Great Game of Business" by Jack Stack - partnership made based on this book
• "Who Not How" by Dan Sullivan - amazing book
• "What Got You Here Won't Get You There" by Marshall Goldsmith
• "How to Win Friends and Influence Others" by Dale Carnegie

[00:15:40] Taking the Leap

• Created own podcast, started speaking engagements
• Wrote first book "Beyond the Download: How to Build Mobile Apps That People Love, Use, and Share Every Day"
• Now writing another book
• All these people contributed to growth, wouldn't be fair to point to just one person

[00:19:20] Clients as Partners and Coaches

• Client gave guidance and tips that helped do things in certain way
• Coaching came directly from client to team: "If you do it this way, this would help me"
• Relationship with clients has always been as partners
• Client guided in terms of how to do things, shaped development effort

[00:22:00] Co-Creation is Key

• Software development and product development can only work if co-creating
• Not about giving instructions and just doing it
• Believe in co-creation as collaborative effort
• Client comes with idea, have to discuss, brainstorm, come up with right way

[00:23:40] Challenging in a Positive Way

• Someone said "you would challenge our client's business approaches"
• Don't challenge their decision, communicate and make sure they hear alternate options
• Challenge in positive way: "Have you thought about this alternate option?"
• Show three ways of doing something with one recommendation

[00:24:40] Three Options, One Recommendation

• Not making decision for client, letting client make decision
• Giving enough information to make the decision
• If only give one option and it doesn't go well, it's a problem
• Software products need that product approach with enough guidance and information

[00:27:00] The Power of Physical Business Cards

• At conferences, people say "Who uses cards nowadays?"
• Challenge: Once you leave a conference, how do you remember who you connected with?
• If just connect on LinkedIn, no reference left when you have thousands of contacts
• Physical cards are cheaper and provide tangible reminder

[00:27:40] The $2 Million Card Exchange

• Years ago at conference, sitting with someone, exchanged cards
• Few months later, guy called: "We were on same table, you gave me your card"
• Working on global software project, needed help
• Got that project, then partner introduced them to another company

[00:28:40] Six Years of Business from One Card

• After six months of work, got another project, then another one
• Over six years timeframe, got close to $2 million in business
• From that one card exchange
• From that point, focused on improving quality of card and keeps bunch with him

[00:29:20] Cards Keep You Top of Mind

• Cards are cheap but provide reminder when back at home or office
• In sales they talk about follow ups: be in front of people at right time
• Traditional way but works for Ghazenfer
• Still keeps bunch with him all the time

[00:36:20] Be the Go-To Person

• Book "Networking is Not Working" by Derek Coburn resonated
• Want to be go-to person for anything - even if someone needs a plumber
• Are you the person who's connected to many that friends always call?
• If you are that person, makes huge difference

KEY QUOTES

"Software development, product development can only work if you are co-creating something. If the clients are giving instructions, then we're just like everybody else, then we are not really doing our work. We believe in co-creation." - Ghazenfer Mansoor

"You wanna be the go-to person for anything. If somebody even needs a plumber, who do they call? Are you the person who's connected to many that your friends are always calling you?" - Ghazenfer Mansoor (quoting Derek Coburn)

CONNECT WITH GHAZENFER MANSOOR

🌐 Business Website: https://www.technologyrivers.com

🌐 Personal Website: https://www.ghazenfer.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmansoor

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmansoor

📚 Book: "Beyond the Download: How to Build Mobile Apps That People Love, Use, and Share Every Day" (releasing end of year)

🎙️ Podcast: Lessons from the Leap

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What if a simple LinkedIn message could get you on the phone with decision-makers immediately?

In this episode, Jason Fishman shares how DNA has worked on over 500 investment crowdfunding campaigns that have collectively produced nine figures of capital. His agency specializes in investor marketing and user acquisition, helping brands raise capital through Reg CF, Reg A+, and Reg D filings. Jason's mission stems from a sobering statistic: nine out of ten businesses fail in their first year, and nine out of ten that survive fail the next year. Many of them fail because they're undercapitalized. By using his digital marketing skillset to bring the right investors to marketing funnels and measure actual conversion and return on ad spend, Jason helps companies that are having trouble meeting new investors access the capital they need to survive and thrive.

He reveals how he met his business partner Tim Martinez at a 2009 conference after almost skipping a workshop. Jason waited in line 10-15 minutes just to talk to Tim, and that conversation eventually led to co-founding DNA together. Jason also shares his LinkedIn outreach strategy: send 25 invitations per day with customized messaging, look for a 20% acceptance rate, and include a scheduling link by message three. This simple tactic helped DNA connect with FINRA regulated portals and build the strategic partnerships that became instrumental to their success.

[00:05:20] DNA: Investor Marketing and User Acquisition

• Focused on investor acquisition, targeting investors with advertising and outreach
• Worked on over 500 deals that collectively produced nine figures of capital
• Campaigns in 2025 alone have surpassed $100 million raised altogether
• Helps brands that are having trouble meeting new investors

[00:06:20] Why Jason Does This Work

• Nine out of ten businesses fail in first year, nine out of ten that survive fail the next year
• Many fail because they're undercapitalized
• Can use digital marketing skillset to bring right investors to marketing funnel
• Measure conversion, return on ad spend, total transactional value

[00:07:20] Background in Ad Tech

• Part of social gaming startup in Los Angeles, played role in capital raise
• Raised over $3 million in seed capital, created countless versions of deck
• Company merged with advertising network, started working with Fortune 500s
• Quickly found fundraising was common part of conversation

[00:08:20] First Campaign: $2.83 Million

• First campaign through Reg D 506(c) which allows solicitation of accredited investors
• Able to target high net worth, high household income audiences with advertising
• Raised $2.83 million on first campaign for Rayon Solar back in 2015
• Reg CF (Regulation Crowdfunding) went into effect May 2016

[00:09:00] The Filings Available Today

• Can raise up to $5 million on Reg CF campaign
• Up to $75 million on Regulation A+ campaign (hoping for $150 million soon)
• Important to have specialization and niche as marketing agency
• Fell into this area, succeeded, kept getting introductions

[00:11:00] What Inspires Jason Most

• Stat that nine out of ten businesses fail is not acceptable
• Part of LA accelerator community, works with universities and founders
• Want to make sure right eyeballs are on their products, companies, brands
• Funding could be make or break for them

[00:12:00] Watching Companies Grow

• Watch clients' teams grow, their offices, their equipment, market share
• Seen groups go from $20 million valuations to $3.5 billion valuations
• Part of Crowdfund Professional Association working on tax credit for investors
• Would put Regulation Crowdfunding on tax form for every American

[00:15:40] Meeting Tim Martinez in 2009

• Met at SR Action Sports Retail conference in San Diego
• Almost didn't attend workshop, last minute walked into "50 Ways to Promote Your Skate Shop"
• Tim was professional skateboarder, worked in snow/skate/surf sports world
• 50-100 business owners taking notes on everything Tim said

[00:16:20] Waiting in Line 15 Minutes

• Had to wait in line 10-15 minutes to talk to Tim after presentation
• First thing Tim asked: "How old are you?" (Tim few years older)
• Hit it off, had great discussion
• Tim said "I'm in Hollywood, you're in Hollywood, why don't we grab coffee sometime?"

[00:17:00] The Path to Partnership

• Started pulling Tim into projects at agency, later worked for Tim's agency
• When Jason was at ad network, Tim asked if interested in starting new firm
• Tim was consulting companies with no idea about digital marketing
• Created DNA together, Tim has brought in countless introductions since

[00:19:00] Don't Be Bashful

• Don't let self-doubt and little thoughts stop you ("maybe I'm too young or he's busy")
• Everyone wants to talk to speakers, why stick around? But Jason did
• Speakers are there for a reason, looking to have outcome for their time
• They're thought leaders, experts, probably things you can do together

[00:20:40] How Tim Led to Crowdfunding

• Wouldn't have been possible without relationship with Tim
• Tim's relationship with Fundable introduced them to Reg D campaigns
• After success, Tim had friend in film industry with crowdfunding company
• That partner brought them to first Reg CF campaign in May 2016

[00:25:20] Building Strategic Partnerships

• Building strategic partnerships has been instrumental to success
• Would tell founder to incorporate into business plan, marketing plan, model
• Went to great lengths because saw how effective it was
• LinkedIn outreach in 2017-2018 got DNA on phone with portals right and left

[00:26:00] The LinkedIn Strategy

• Can send 25 invitations per day from your profile
• Search by company, job title, company size, industry, zip code
• Send message with invitation, look for 20% or higher acceptance rate
• By message three, add scheduling link to streamline booking process

[00:27:00] Customized Outreach

• Have very clear call to action, very visible opportunity on how to connect
• Every founder, if not every professional, should be doing this
• Start manually, really customize messaging
• Build relationships with people who can introduce you to target audience

[00:30:00] Do More

• Don't think "I have a few relationships, I'll hit my goal"
• It's all about driving enough traffic at high enough conversion rate
• 50,000 visits per million raised at 2% conversion rate and $1,000-$2,000 average investment
• Engage experts, talk to people, do not be bashful

KEY QUOTES

"It's all about relationships. Your net worth is your network. Some people say it the other way around. Your network is your net worth." - Jason Fishman

"Whether they're on television or a billionaire or leading a workshop or whatever it may look like, don't be afraid to go up to 'em and talk to 'em. There's no telling what it could look like 16 years into that relationship." - Jason Fishman

"Building strategic partnerships has been instrumental to the success of our business, and it's something I would tell a founder to incorporate into their business plan, marketing plan, and their model." - Jason Fishman

CONNECT WITH JASON FISHMAN

🌐 Website: https://www.digitalnicheagency.com

📺 YouTube: Test Optimize Scale Podcast (200+ episodes)

💼 LinkedIn: Connect with Jason Fishman

📱 Monthly webinars with educational content and new deck every month

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What if the contract you didn't get was actually the answer to your prayer?

In this episode, Eric Collett shares how he helps entrepreneurs and executives optimize their brain health to function at an elite level. His work goes upstream, identifying the trajectory decades before diseases like Alzheimer's show symptoms, because most people don't realize that Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases generally start decades before the first symptoms appear. Eric's team has developed the Enhance Protocol, helping clients improve brain function by 20-30% so they can learn faster, understand new technologies more rapidly, find words faster, have more stable mental health, and prevent cognitive decline to stay in the game longer.

He reveals losing what would've been his biggest contract in Arizona. After two weeks of silence following a handshake agreement, he prayed: "If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen." The CEO called to say they'd met nurse practitioner Randy Vawdrey who could actually reverse cognitive decline. Eric told them "You should work with Randy, that's a huge opportunity." Months later, Randy called to collaborate. They met at 6pm and talked until after midnight going through a Bible-sized stack of research. Within six months, Eric asked Randy to become his business partner, a relationship that put him through an intentional crash course in med school for years.

[00:05:20] Optimal Brain Health is Required

• Believes optimal brain health required for optimal results in business and life
• Brain is like hardware, everything we're learning and striving to do is like software
• Loading new software on crummy old dysfunctional hardware never gets great results
• Good brain health needed for better relationships, better business

[00:06:00] Improving Brain Function by 20-30%

• Team developed organized system to identify root cause issues affecting brain performance
• Make specific recommendations, track objectively
• Help people improve brain function by 20-30%
• Can learn faster, understand new technologies more rapidly, find words faster, have more stable mental health

[00:07:20] Who They Serve

• All ages: younger people with traumatic brain injuries, people in 30s with brain fog
• People 50-80 noticing things aren't what they used to be
• Especially focus on entrepreneurs and executives who want to function at elite level
• Most people miss opportunity to quantify it objectively instead of just guessing

[00:10:00] Gary Plummer: From Doorknob to Stage

• Gary Plummer played linebacker for San Francisco 49ers, won Super Bowl ring
• Shortly after retiring, couldn't remember how to install doorknob (had done many times)
• Could go from zero to fighting mad at drop of hat, had to isolate from people
• Wouldn't drive on freeways, wouldn't travel without handler to meet at airport

[00:11:20] The Transformation

• Eric's team helped take Gary's cognitive scores from 58th percentile to 86th percentile
• Several years later, now above average overall on tests
• Got to watch Gary step on stage at Forever Young Foundation event in Arizona
• Had quit speaking because he would lose train of thought, now presenting confidently

[00:13:40] Alzheimer's Starts Decades Before Symptoms

• Nationally recognized expert, spoken in 39 of 50 states to healthcare professionals
• Alzheimer's and diseases like Parkinson's generally start decades before first symptoms
• We've grown up in "sick care system" that waits till you have serious problem
• 40-95% of Alzheimer's cases believed to be preventable

[00:18:00] Think of Your Brain as a Boat

• When things are good, riding high in water, moving at top speed
• When not good, starting to take on water
• Common for people to get forgetful as they get older, but that's not normal, that's evidence of disease
• Brain health is never about one thing, it's multifactorial (80-100 things)

[00:19:20] One Client: 68th to 99th Percentile

• Client is 42 years old, wrote LinkedIn article about experience
• Went from 68th percentile in cognitive functioning to 99th percentile
• Getting better results in life and business today
• Has lot more assurance he's changed trajectory for tomorrow

[00:20:40] The Contract I Didn't Get

• Early 2017, started A Mind For All Seasons as solopreneur
• Opportunity to work with Arizona company designing memory care program for entire portfolio
• Met with owners, left with handshake agreement, supposed to get contract in couple days
• Couple days turned into more than two weeks

[00:22:00] The Prayer

• Prayed: "I want this to happen, this would make my year"
• "If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen"
• "I promise I will be grateful, I may not understand it, but I can be grateful in all things"
• Within day or two, CEO called

[00:22:20] Meeting Randy Vawdrey

• CEO said they met nurse practitioner with advanced training in neurodegenerative diseases
• Randy had done fellowship with Dr. Bredesen at UCLA, Buck Institute for Research on Aging
• Dr. Bredesen's 2014 paper "Reversal of Cognitive Decline" showed 9 out of 10 patients with remarkable improvement
• Company said "We can't afford both Randy and you, we're going to work with Randy"

[00:23:40] "You Should Work With Randy"

• Eric told them "You should, that's a huge opportunity, no one's doing that"
• They suggested "You should call Randy, he lives in Idaho like you do"
• Eric thought "I'm not gonna call Randy, I don't have time, I just lost biggest contract"
• Hustled for couple months

[00:24:20] Randy Called

• Randy called out of the blue, said company wanted him to train staff
• "I'm a clinician, I don't do that, I want to explore collaborating"
• Eric was driving through Randy's part of state next week, said "Why don't we get together?"
• Went to Randy's house at 6pm, was there till after midnight

[00:25:00] The Bible-Sized Stack of Research

• Randy brought out huge Bible-sized stack of research, slammed it on coffee table
• Started going through footnotes of the footnotes, what he'd learned with real patients
• Eric left 100% recognizing they could make far bigger difference
• Had agreement to split the contract, neither would make much money

[00:25:40] "Will You Be My Business Partner?"

• Within six months Eric said "Randy, what are we doing dating? We need to work together"
• "Will you be my business partner? Let's go all in on this"
• All these years later still working together, still innovating
• Randy put Eric through intentional crash course in med school

[00:26:00] The Education

• Every Friday and Monday morning at 7am for a few years, met for hour or two
• Randy taught Eric how to read labs, physiology and science behind everything
• Continued teaching ever since
• "Short of my own family, he has done more to affect my life than any human on the planet"

[00:27:40] The Vision: Impact a Million Lives

• Current goal: impact another million lives in next two to three years
• Eight billion people on planet, everybody has brain, everybody needs optimal brain health
• Majority of Americans not metabolically healthy
• Alzheimer's nicknamed "diabetes of the brain"

[00:32:40] Social Engagement Reduces Cognitive Decline

• From research standpoint, being more socially engaged reduces risk of cognitive decline
• Not only better in business and more joy in life, it's better for your brain
• Prioritizing relationships and being connected matters deeply for cognitive and mental health

KEY QUOTES

"Diseases like Alzheimer's disease, which I'm a nationally recognized expert in. I've literally talked in 39 of the 50 states to healthcare professionals. Most people don't realize that Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's generally start decades before the first symptoms ever show up." - Eric Collett

"I prayed and I literally said, I want this to happen. This would just make my year. If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen, and I promise that I will be grateful. I may not understand it, but I can be grateful in all things." - Eric Collett

"Being more socially engaged actually reduces the risk of cognitive decline. So not only are things better in business, and not only do you have more joy in life, it's actually better for your brain." - Eric Collett

CONNECT WITH ERIC COLLETT

🌐 Website: https://www.amindforallseasons.com

🎁 Special Offer: https://www.amindforallseasons.com/join (Use code MDR for 30 days free)

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricDCollett

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdcollett

🧠 Includes: CNS Vital Signs cognitive test ($50), weekly office hours, masterclasses, thousands of hours of searchable content

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What if feeling like you only had a stick on the battlefield was the moment God showed you the sword?

In this episode, Francis Piché shares his declaration: to create the best men's group in the world for conscious men who want to establish something beyond their own life. The Knight Club isn't just about mission, it's about working on that mission together with brothers who share the heroic code (humility, excellence, respect, optimism, integrity, and courage). His vision? Chapters around the world where men can travel to Paris, London, Barcelona, or Sydney and know they'll connect with people like them who they can do life and business with. Francis was inspired by a recent trip to Scotland where he felt deeply connected to the knighthood and brotherhood, realizing this is his next chapter.

He reveals the dark night in Orange County when he felt so powerless that ending it all seemed like the only option. Financial debt, feeling worthless in a place full of luxury cars, unable to even talk to a woman because his self-esteem was on the floor. After rejecting his friend's money in anger, he told his brother Jason he felt like all he had on the battlefield was a stick, not even a sword. That conversation saved his life. Later, Francis asked for the photo of the bright star he'd seen that night. The star's name? Sisaph, which means "the sword of the giant." God had the story for him all along. Francis also shares how his sales mentor Bob Smith told him after selling his entire year's quota in six months: "What do you mean 150%? Your goal is 200%. That's how successful people think."

[00:07:06] The Knight Club Declaration

• Declaration: Create the best men's group in the world for conscious men, men of faith
• Men who want to establish something beyond their own life, creating a legacy
• Rising together in ups and downs, working on mission together
• Differentiator: Not only thinking about mission, working on it with Thinking Into Results program

[00:08:40] The Vision: Chapters Around the World

• Vision inspired by recent Scotland trip, felt connected to knighthood and brotherhood
• Imagine chapters everywhere: Paris, London, Barcelona, Sydney, South America
• Connect with people like you who share the heroic code
• Can do life and business with them, have great time traveling

[00:09:20] The Heroic Code

• Humility, excellence, respect, optimism, integrity, and courage
• All guys in group embody these attributes, you can rely on this
• Creating retreats for men, sometimes incorporating women together
• Traveling, connecting great people, business owners, dreamers who want to make difference

[00:11:40] Am I Alive While I'm Alive?

• Best friend died last year out of nowhere at 47
• Asked himself: "Am I alive while I'm alive? Am I having a bold life?"
• Bold means: Brave, Original, Loving, and having Dedication to a cause/mission
• Purpose of life: be fully alive, being free, helping others, making a difference

[00:17:00] The Dark Night in Orange County

• Two-three years ago, perfect storm: waiting for clients not responsive, deeply in debt
• Felt not good for own clients, business not showing up, felt powerless and meaningless
• Saw beautiful woman at hookah bar but too scared to talk, she left in McLaren
• Friend Simon teased "Be a man, why don't you talk to her?" hitting self-esteem to floor

[00:19:20] The Stick on the Battlefield

• Rejected friend's money with gesture he felt, was rejecting own friend and self
• "What's the point? Why am I here? I'm not even a man"
• Only reason didn't consider ending it: didn't want burden of bringing body back to parents
• Friend Jason had long conversation, wouldn't let him give up

[00:21:00] The Sword of the Giant

• Told Jason: "If I was on battlefield right now, all I have is a stick, not even a sword"
• After conversation felt reignited, asked for photo of bright star from that night
• Looked up name of star: Sisaph, which means "the sword of the giant"
• "God had that story for you. You're the giant, you're the star. Remember this."

[00:22:20] The Power of Brotherhood

• Moment of reawakening the giant within
• Not just support in bad times, also celebrating good times
• All have ceilings, all have pressure (next exit, firing employees, etc.)
• Requires new identity to go to next level

[00:24:40] The Godfather's Wisdom

• At 16, godfather gave birthday card: "Don't choose job for paycheck"
• "Do what makes your heart come alive, otherwise you'll be poor all your life"
• Chose multinational job for $55K over $30K small organization that offered travel
• Was miserable for four years, flames diminished every day

[00:26:20] Found the Card 20 Years Later

• At 36, found the card and realized: "He was right"
• Associated being successful with getting all that, which is a lie
• If you have enough of your why and excitement, you'll go through challenges
• Purpose of living: to be fully enlivened

[00:27:20] Bob Smith: The Sales Mentor

• Week before starting new job at Xerox, fiancée said "I want to cancel the wedding"
• Three months before wedding, she left next day, "house of cards collapsed"
• Sales coach Bob Smith at bootcamp helped him recreate himself
• Bob's lesson: "Seven things to be a successful salesperson... #7 most important: Have fun"

[00:29:00] "You Can Do Anything You Want"

• After bootcamp, thanked Bob for the week
• Bob put hand on shoulder, piercing eyes: "I've watched you this week"
• "You can do anything you want in your life. It's just up to you"
• Gave permission to go for it

[00:29:40] Sold Entire Year in Six Months

• Won rookie of the year, at six months sold whole year's quota
• Told Bob "My goal now is 150% for President's Club"
• Bob: "What do you mean 150%? Your goal is 200%. That's how successful people think"
• Ended at 167% of plan, almost best in entire company, second place

[00:37:20] Are You Alive While You're Alive?

• Friend passed away from running, something burst in heart, died at 47
• Life is precious, not just at 65-80, but now
• Mission: make sure fully playing game, not playing small
• Other friend with cancer chose date, said: "Never let anyone or anything sway you from who you really are"

KEY QUOTES

"The name of the star was Sisaph, which means the sword of the giant. All along, while you're at your lowest point, God had that story for you. You're the giant, you're the star." - Francis Piché

"You can do anything you want in your life. It's just up to you." - Bob Smith (to Francis)

CONNECT WITH FRANCIS PICHÉ

🌐 Website: https://www.francispiche.com

🏰 Knight Club: https://www.resilienceelement.com/knight-club

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/francis.piche.18

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francispiche

📸 Instagram: @pgfrancis

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What if the most powerful communicators aren't the most polished ones?

In this episode, Dia Bondi shares how watching a three-day communication skills class transformed her life. She had no resume to support her desire, but she made the ask that changed everything: "Will you apprentice me?" That mentor said yes, and 25 years later, she's still helping leaders speak powerfully from who they truly are. Dia's work goes beyond messaging to something deeper: helping clients articulate what they have to say before figuring out how to say it. She's coached VC-backed founders past Series B, VP-level executives, and even helped Rio de Janeiro win the right to host the 2016 Olympics (a $7 billion decision) without ever knowing who referred her.

Dia reveals the six attributes of the most compelling communicators: they make the choice to be big in big moments, they know how to make strategic asks, they absolutely know their voice, they've got killer setups for their asks, they bridge their voice to the business really well, and they prep on purpose by actually talking through what they'll say.

She shares the story of a founder who created a 40-minute story to invite existing customers to help inform what gets built next. That task drove $10 million of value in the business. Dia also explains why the most powerful moment in her career might have been her first deal that included both cash and shares, because once she did it once, she now had the confidence and understanding to recreate it over and over again.

[00:08:20] The Ask That Changed My Life

• Watched three-day communication skills class about storytelling in business
• Had no resume to support desire to do that work
• Asked if he would apprentice her, and he did
• 25 years later still finds it compelling because it truly moves the needle for people

[00:10:20] What You Have to Say vs. How to Say It

• Messaging is "how do I say it?" but Dia lives in the step before that
• "What is it that you have to say?"
• Until a leader can articulate things that feel innate but aren't obvious, can't create the message
• First articulate what you have to say, then figure out how best to express it

[00:12:00] The 40-Minute Story Worth $10 Million

• Former client needed to invite existing customers to participate in informing product development
• Put together compelling story bridging what founder has to say with story of business
• Set up really killer ask, 40-minute story to set up that ask
• Client secured participation needed, will drive about $10 million of value in business

[00:17:20] The First Deal With Shares

• Introduction to blockchain company working directly with founders
• First time setting up deal that included both cash and shares
• It paid off, and importantly gave confidence and understanding
• Once you do it first time, now have opportunity to do it over and over because it's in your radar

[00:20:00] Helping Rio Win the Olympics bid

• Got a request over the internet: "We heard you're good, can you give us a call?"
• Turned out to be production team working on Rio's bid for 2016 Olympics
• $7 billion decision, got to work in those teeny tiny rooms where stories get crafted
• Still doesn't know who referred her, but knows what part of work it came from

[00:24:40] Six Attributes of Powerful Communicators

• One: Make choice to be big in big moments (not about being polished or showboat)
• Two: Know how to make strategic asks and use asking strategically
• Three: Absolutely know their voice and can give good feedback to creative collaborators
• Four: Got killer setups for the asks they make of partners

[00:27:20] The Last Two Attributes

• Five: Bridge their own voice to the business really well
• Six: Prep on purpose by actually talking through it, not just thinking about it
• One founder's pregame routine: end call, go downstairs, change shirt, wash face, drink water
• If he did that six times in day, he'd go through six shirts

[00:30:00] Kevin's $16.1 Million Conversation

• 2003, owned cleaning and restoration company with website producing $15,000/month
• Mentor Joe Polish: "Come speak at event, document what you do into a course"
• Had never spoken publicly before, invested in Speaker's Bootcamp training
• Made $35,000 in course sales that day, but that wasn't the big win

[00:32:40] The Real Big Win

• Over next 12 years sold $16.1 million worth of that course
• All because of one conversation: "Why don't you come down and speak?"
• Brought energy, joyfulness, willingness to share with generosity
• When you're invited, say yes

KEY QUOTES

"I made the ask that changed my life. That gentleman brought me in and let me watch his class. I asked if he would apprentice me, and he did." - Dia Bondi

"The most compelling communicators make the choice to be big in big moments. And that's never about being a showboat." - Dia Bondi

CONNECT WITH DIA BONDI

🌐 Website: https://www.diabondi.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dia-bondi

📚 Book: Ask Like an Auctioneer: How To Ask For More and Get It

🎯 Special Page for MDR Listeners: https://www.diabondi.com/mdr

✨ The Intensive: https://www.diabondi.com/intensive

📋 21 Strategies to Elevate Your Voice: https://www.diabondi.com/getthe21

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What if saying your goals out loud, got you an email introducing you to your hero?

In this episode, Cliff Ravenscraft shares how he walked away from a family insurance agency (started by his grandfather in 1937) where he was next in line to lead, all because of a podcast about the TV show Lost. After building an audience of 60,000 subscribers and receiving over 500 handwritten letters from people whose lives were transformed, Cliff realized his real calling wasn't selling insurance or being a pastor. It was teaching people how to use their voice to create content that matters. He's since helped over 40,000 people launch podcasts, but discovered something critical: nine out of ten failed because they skipped the first seven steps of building an online business. Step eight? Create content and build your audience. Everything else comes first.

Cliff reveals the four-step formula that led to a $3 million relationship: believe it's possible, write it down, tell others, and work the plan as it becomes available. He also shares why his first year as a full-time entrepreneur, working 14-hour days seven days a week for $11,000, ended with a 24-hour podcast marathon and two weeks in the hospital where he almost died.

[00:05:00] Helping 40,000 People Launch Podcasts

• Left very lucrative career in family insurance agency started by grandfather in 1937
• Went out to teach people how to launch podcasts
• Helped more than 40,000 people in the world launch a podcast
• Published over 4,800 podcast episodes across 55+ shows in 20 years

[00:11:20] The First Year That Almost Killed Him

• First year full-time: 12-14 hours a day, seven days a week, not one day off first nine months
• Didn't receive single personal paycheck, just earned enough to pay business expenses
• End of year brought home $11,000 net personal income after taxes
• Celebrated with 24-hour podcast marathon, ended with two weeks in hospital

[00:13:20] Why Nine Out of Ten Podcasters Fail

• In 2012, more than 50 of top 100 business podcasts were Cliff's clients
• But nine out of ten failed to ever see sustainable profit or any income
• Created 11-step framework for building online business
• Step number eight: create content and build audience (first seven steps were missed)

[00:14:40] The Workshop That Changed Everything

• In 2017 stopped teaching podcasting, started coaching through what people missed
• One person earned no income before workshop, within two weeks secured $5,000/month recurring
• Coaches charging $50/hour walked out charging $300/hour
• "This is what fires me up"

[00:16:40] Choose an Audience With Money

• Most people fail to choose audience that has money
• Ideal customer must have money, be aware of problem, willing to pay to solve it
• "I've got entire audience of tens of thousands and none of them have any money"
• Must validate they will pay before you create website, logo, podcast content

[00:20:00] The Two Conditions

• At 18, convinced life would be devoted to ministry with servant's heart
• Parents asked him to work in insurance office because of computer skills
• Told parents: "You will never expect me to get insurance license"
• "If I'm offered opportunity to pastor church, I must get your full blessing to leave"

[00:24:20] Top 10 Out of 14,000 Insurance Agents

• Year 2000, top 10 out of 14,000 agents with Grange Life Insurance
• Top 50 out of 48,000 agents with Auto Owners Life Insurance
• Sold 30-100 policies per month selling term life insurance
• All while competing against people selling permanent life (much higher premiums)

[00:25:40] The Lost Podcast Changed Everything

• 2005, started podcasting as hobby about TV show Lost
• By third episode had 27,000 subscribers around the world
• Audience grew to over 60,000 subscribers
• Wooden inbox with over 500 handwritten letters: "Because of something you said, my life will never be the same"

[00:28:00] Reaching Hundreds of Thousands

• Within 18 months reaching hundreds of thousands through seven different podcasts
• Producing seven to fifteen podcast episodes per week
• People's lives being transformed
• "I wonder what life would be like if I could do this for a living"

[00:30:40] Testing the Four Step Formula

• Heard four-step formula: believe it's possible, write it down, tell others, work the plan
• Decided to test it with specific goal: meet Dan Miller and Leo LaPorte
• Didn't want to just meet at conference and be forgotten
• Wanted to tell them their influence and have them not forget meeting him

[00:32:40] Forty Minutes After Hitting Publish

• Recorded podcast episode explaining formula and his goal
• Hit publish, 40 minutes later got email from Andy Troub (the connector)
• "I happen to be working on a project with Dan Miller. He's already aware of who you are"
• "Would you like me to introduce you?"

[00:34:00] From Hero to Consulting Client

• One week later, Dan Miller was guest on Cliff's podcast
• After the interview, Dan asked "Can I schedule a consulting call with you?"
• Cliff told Dan audio quality was terrible, people can't make themselves listen
• Dan: "I really appreciate how honest you are. What do you recommend?"

[00:35:00] The Weekend in Franklin, Tennessee

• Dan said order duplicate of everything in studio, ship to house
• "Come spend weekend with me, stay in guest room, help me build podcast studio"
• Dan started telling massive audience about Cliff Ravenscraft
• Cliff was booked solid for years because of that relationship

[00:36:00] The Michael Hyatt Introduction

• Dan told Michael Hyatt (CEO Thomas Nelson Publishing) podcast was #1 marketing tool
• Dan did email introduction to Michael Hyatt
• Within a week, Cliff was in Franklin staying in Michael's guest room
• Setting up Michael's podcast studio

[00:37:40] $3 Million in Revenue

• Between Dan Miller and Michael Hyatt relationships alone
• Can trace at least $3 million in revenue to those two
• Also met Leo LaPorte, both goals from four-step formula checked off
• Tested formula over and over, it worked every time

[00:40:20] The 10-Step Formula

• Over time developed 10-step formula (includes four steps plus six others)
• Six other steps where you don't have to wait for plan to become available
• Ask series of questions that will give you next step
• Email cliff@cliffravenscraft.com with subject "10 step formula" for free video

KEY QUOTES

"I've got an entire audience of tens of thousands of people and none of them have any money, and none of them will buy any of my products and services. This is why you're creating content year after year with no real income." - Cliff Ravenscraft

"Forty minutes after I published that episode, I got an email from Andy Troub saying Dan Miller is already aware of who you are, he's been having trouble with his podcast, would you like me to introduce you?" - Cliff Ravenscraft

CONNECT WITH CLIFF RAVENSCRAFT

🌐 Website: https://www.Ravenscraft.org

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliffravenscraft

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliffravenscraft

📧 Email: cliff@cliffravenscraft.com (Subject: "10 step formula" for free video)

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What if restoring impossible relationships just required knowing what's on the other side?

In this episode, Greg Stephens shares how 24 years as a master trainer for Crucial Conversations taught him that breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over. That realization led him to shift from training to coaching, creating a six-month program where executives and emerging leaders have conversations they never thought possible. His specialty? Seeing relationships like some people see music, orchestrating conversations where people show up as their best.

Greg also reveals why his mentor Bill Solomon intentionally made his welding job miserable before college, teaching him the resilience he'd need to push through Baylor surrounded by wealthy students. Most powerfully, he explains "emotional accounting": why putting off a Friday conversation until Monday doesn't just ruin your weekend, it costs you exponentially more on the back end.

[00:04:44] What Alignment Resources Does

• Company goal: everyone eats at the trough (trainers train, coaches coach, sales people sell, speakers speak)
• Greg's specialty lives in areas of difficult relationships, everyone has at least one
• Works with relationships that seem impossible
• Application of Crucial Conversations tools for talking when stakes are high

[00:05:40] Twenty-Four Years Teaching Crucial Conversations

• Was master trainer in Crucial Conversations, taught it for 24 years starting in 2001
• Before the book was written, it was called "Path to Dialogue" then "Dialogue Smarts"
• One of first master trainers, stayed until January this year when he released his book
• Got to travel the world, train on stage, do keynote talks

[00:06:00] Why Breakthroughs Need Practice

• People would take class, have great experience, have aha breakthrough moments
• Found that breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over
• If you want permanence around a breakthrough, you've gotta go do something
• That piece was lacking, so decided to shift business to coaching

[00:06:20] The Six Month Coaching Program

• About six month program, 20 different weeks
• Teaching executives and emerging leaders (ages 21-28)
• Wanted to teach younger generation what executives said "I wish I'd learned this 20, 30 years ago"
• Most people say "I've had a coach before, this is nothing like it"

[00:07:00] Building Up and Completing Relationships

• Build people up in relationships, let them go back and improve, clean up, or complete relationships
• Complete doesn't mean never see person again (could, but doesn't have to)
• Can work next to person and have completed relationship around an issue
• It just doesn't show up for you anymore because you know where you stand, said what you need to say

[00:07:40] The Skills Most People Don't Have

• Coaches and mentors say "you need to go have this conversation," but how?
• There are skill sets you need, the application of them, and how to make adjustments
• People talk about psychological safety but don't know how to create it
• What to do when your emotions take hold or other person's emotions take hold

[00:08:20] How to Really Listen When You Disagree

• How do you begin to really listen when you disagree with everything being said?
• How do you get on the right topic?
• Most people don't know how to dissect and break down conversations
• Greg helps dissect it and break it down for people

[00:08:40] Executives on Retainer

• Some executives don't want to learn all skill sets, just want someone to do it for them
• Working with groups on retainer where they call when they have big problem
• They lay out background, what they've done, then Greg lays out plan for conversation
• Role plays exactly what might happen, clients say "it was like you were right there"

[00:10:00] When People Don't Show Up as Their Best

• Sometimes people have breakdown, don't show up as their best, come back saying "I really blew it"
• Great learning point, it needed to be this way
• Limiting belief: thinking it's over when conversation goes badly
• When you know these skills, you can go back over and over and reset

[00:11:20] What Drives Greg Most

• Watching people restore relationships they thought were just not possible
• Worked with police captains on issue, individual conversations showed no one thought it could be done
• Scheduled for four sessions, had breakthrough after first session
• One person took responsibility for their part, allowed everyone else to take responsibility

[00:13:00] It's Still Hard Even With Skills

• People say "you have the skill, you should be able to do it"
• Greg still doesn't like having difficult conversations
• Doesn't want to have the conversation, but wants what's on the other side
• "Stop looking at the conversation right now. Let's look at what you want beyond that."

[00:14:00] Work is Easy, Personal is Hard

• When working with businesses, always eventually get to their personal lives
• Those are the much more difficult conversations
• Work is easy, we all want to make more money and enjoy work
• Hardest ones are family businesses with so much emotion and unspoken hierarchy

[00:16:00] Bill Solomon Changed Everything

• Gentleman who wrote forward to Greg's book, had heart transplant before writing it
• Bill told Greg "I'm so glad you asked me to write the forward because I couldn't stop writing"
• Two months later Bill had book of his own called "Losing Control" (in his seventies)
• Was the person who pointed Greg toward something more in his life

[00:17:20] The Welding Job That Taught Resilience

• Bill gave Greg job before college as welder's helper (Bill was CFO of company)
• Told the guys "You're gonna like this guy I'm bringing in, but treat him like crap"
• "Tear him down every day. Make him feel stupid. You're gonna begin to like him. Make it hard on him."
• Never told Greg this was happening

[00:18:20] Breaking the Golden Handcuffs

• Wouldn't have business today without Bill Solomon
• Getting through Baylor, getting great job, then getting out of job and breaking golden handcuffs
• Starting own business in 1999, none of that would've happened
• Bill took interest, made it difficult on purpose, said "you're gonna be a great leader one day"

[00:21:40] Greg Reynolds Called Every Day

• After Greg's divorce, Greg Reynolds called him every day for three months
• All he said was "How you doing today? How you doing today?"
• One of hardest times Greg ever went through
• Showed Greg the power of that, he's done same thing for friend of his

[00:22:20] Taking Interest in People

• If you really want to take interest in a person, find out what they're doing every day
• Every one of these gentlemen shaped how Greg mentors others
• Having conversations he never would've had, saying what he never would've said
• Taking interest like Bill Solomon did, being there like his coaches

[00:24:40] "What Do You Want to Do?"

• Woman was looking at situation from the past when she didn't have skills
• Now she does have skills
• "Question isn't what they want or what I want to do. It's what do you want to do?"
• She got quiet: "I want to have the conversation."

[00:25:00] Over 20 Resets to Stay on Track

• They practiced again, she went and had conversation
• Wrote amazing email about how each time she had to stop herself and come back
• Get conversation back on track by sharing your best intent
• Had to do that more than 20 times

[00:28:20] Investing Upfront vs. Costing on Back End

• If you add skillset and knew how to address it, you'd say "I'm not wasting my weekend"
• Have conversation, no matter what outcome, it's out of you
• Have entire weekend to problem solve whatever that was and learn about what you did
• Used time wisely by investing upfront rather than it costing you on back end

[00:31:40] Marcus Newcomb Connection

• Marcus Newcomb is special person, they hit it off
• Greg has gotten to meet so many great people networking and marketing his book
• Kevin is "the real deal"

KEY QUOTES

"Breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over. So if you want permanence around a breakthrough, you've gotta go do something." - Greg Stephens

"If you really want to take interest in a person, find out what they're doing every day." - Greg Stephens

"My life is built on the shoulders of all my friends and people in my life that have shown me so much." - Greg Stephens

CONNECT WITH GREG STEPHENS

🌐 Website: https://www.alignment-resources.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregstephens2

📚 Book: Build New Bridges: The Art of Restoring Impossible Relationships (Amazon)

🎙️ Podcast: A Shot of Inspiration

⏰ Office Hours: Weekly coaching forum (details on website)

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What if the book you're writing is actually about the story holding you back?

In this episode, Amanda Johnson shares how twenty years of helping entrepreneurs write books revealed something most people never see: the reason you can't finish your book usually has nothing to do with time, organization, or writing skills. It's the old stories you're carrying that keep one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake. Amanda's work goes far beyond traditional book coaching. She creates what she calls "story saving" experiences where high-achieving entrepreneurs finally see the truth they've been avoiding.

She tells the remarkable story of a social worker writing a "choose your own adventure" book about high-conflict divorces who spent 18 months unable to get one character right. Amanda kept trying to show her client she was writing her own husband, but the truth wasn't safe enough to see yet.

After a decade of watching hybrid publishing houses destroy clients' carefully-built brands with covers that would "completely disrupt trust," Amanda's 19-year-old entrepreneurial son suggested while she cursed in the kitchen: "Mom, how about we just build a publishing house?" Now, with her son as business partner and youngest sister as creative designer, Amanda runs Saved By Story, a boutique hybrid publisher where every detail honors the transformational work her clients have done.

[00:03:40] Entrepreneurial DNA

• Raised with entrepreneurial grandparents, it's in her DNA
• Accounts for rebellious spirit: entrepreneurs see problems and think "I could fix that"
• Thought she was going to be a Christian journalist at end of high school
• Got to university, asked to be part of honors program (classic books program)

[00:04:40] Learning to Think Critically

• Four and a half years wrestling with great ideas and stories that formed civilization
• Hadn't been taught how to think critically or feel greatly
• Halfway through decided: I want to get to teens before they're in college alone and disconnected
• Became a history teacher to help teens think critically and wrestle with big ideas

[00:05:40] Bouncing Out of the System

• Got classroom with all gang bangers, drug dealers, kids nobody else wanted first semester
• "What is the logic here? Send the newbie to barely survive?"
• Did it for six months, gave absolute best
• Realized couldn't give it her all every day and show up as good mom for toddler

[00:06:20] The Online Writing Program

• Friend of family starting online writing instruction program
• "You have teaching credential, writing chops, can do it anytime when your kid is sleeping"
• Helped build curriculum, got really great results
• Went to networking events to share the program

[00:07:00] The Side Business That Changed Everything

• Female entrepreneurs said "I don't want you to teach me to write, I need you to fix what I've written"
• Opened side business helping people get clear on message, audience, and engagement
• Quickly found story was the answer
• Story was also the answer to why most people weren't finishing their books

[00:08:40] The Retreat Model Today

• Mostly retreat and community model for busy, wildly successful individuals
• They need time away, good excuse to say "I'm out for three days, seven days"
• They know how to focus and achieve goals, but book always gets pushed to back burner
• All of a sudden five or ten years have gone by

[00:09:20] Authorship is Lonely Like Entrepreneurship

• Not every entrepreneur writes book to establish authority
• Entrepreneurs can be very lonely working from home without water cooler experiences
• Gets exacerbated when someone decides to write: Who am I to write? How does one do this?
• Having community where everybody's in same soup moves people much more quickly

[00:10:40] Two Types of Clients

• First type (15-20%): "I need this done in three months and published in another three"
• Example: Client franchising business in six months, needed book published first
• Wrote book in less than three months, published in another three months
• These clients know how to block time and make it happen

[00:12:40] The Choose Your Own Adventure Book

• Works in high conflict divorces, helps judge sort out what's best for kids
• Wanted to write choose your own adventure for her career
• Family with parents and two children, both parents get three options each
• All sound amazing but only one actually is best, shows destination of each choice

[00:13:40] Writing the Husband Character

• Writing family quite unfairly, good for women but men would say "What? She didn't do anything"
• Couldn't get one character right, Amanda realized she was writing her husband
• We write what we know
• Readers said "No way would I put this in front of male reader, this has to be changed"

[00:15:20] Breaking Generational Patterns

• Didn't have enough safety in herself, writing character out helped her see truth
• Realized all the stuff in marriage was generational
• Has been able to break that generational story for her own kids
• This is the book "You Can't Make This Story Up"

[00:16:00] Fifteen Years of Seeing People Stuck

• Could have been wounded story or something they didn't want to talk about
• Sometimes they'd been dimmed in childhood or got in trouble when they got visible
• One foot on gas, one foot on brake even though it's for great cause and fulfilling purpose
• Had to figure out what the brake was

[00:16:40] After That Story, Everything Changed

• After 15 years of stories, decided to help other creatives and entrepreneurs learn about being stuck
• It's not just "not organized" or "not right time" or "I'm not good writer"
• Those are ego's convenient way of keeping us from changing the real story
• That lady worked for two or three years and still rewriting it three or four years later

[00:17:20] Do It In Community

• If our souls know that hard work is coming, of course there's resistance
• Answer: Write it, process it first, do it with partner who knows what you're up to
• Do it in community because communal experience really accelerates it

[00:19:40] The 12 Month Program Structure

• Seven days together quarterly in person in cozy Airbnb (not conference settings)
• First three days: story saving work (not therapy but sort of feels like it)
• One day: go to spot together or do something fun in nature, let everything recalibrate
• Three days of work: goal is to get first chapter at first retreat

[00:22:40] It's Always About Relationships

• When trying something new, doesn't want to do all the tasks
• "Where are the people? It's all for me. It's always been about relationship, not the actual to-dos"
• First person who changed everything: Ursula Lameris, sales coach

[00:24:40] Learning From an Extrovert

• Connection was so natural to Ursula but not natural to Amanda (introvert)
• Put it in the book, had fun for five or six years in same neighborhood
• Made game out of networking: "Today I'm gonna sell this many contracts for you"
• Both experienced each other's work, just created relationships

[00:25:20] Making Networking a Game

• Would go to networking meetings and talk each other up
• "Oh you need to talk to Amanda. Oh you need to talk to Ursula"
• That's how they both built really amazing businesses in a few years

[00:28:00] Ten Years of Saving Self-Published Authors

• After 10 years helping individuals self-publish, people started looking at hybrid publishing
• Needed imprint for their position, status, industry
• Would try different hybrid houses, then call Amanda to come save it
• Couldn't believe what she was seeing

[00:29:20] The 19-Year-Old's Solution

• Son said: "Mom, how about we just build a publishing house? We'll just figure it out"
• He was 19 years old
• Always been an entrepreneur, was hustling people at garage sale at age three or four
• Amanda: "I don't really have time, but if you want to, I'll partner with you"

[00:30:00] Saved By Story Publishing House

• Son is business partner, youngest sister is creative designer
• Boutique hybrid publishing house
• A lot of people who do writing process eventually move through publishing
• Do education and empowerment for people ready to publish without giving all power away

[00:30:40] The Bigger Impact Vision

• More of what's already doing, bigger impact on personal side
• Narrative resilience work that happens when people write in community
• Gets to end of retreats thinking "There are only few people in this room"
• Dream: expanding transformational work through personal brand, speaking, facilitation

[00:31:00] Narrative Tools for Every Arena

• Take narrative tools and skills and infuse them into places that need them
• Education system, mental health space
• Pretty much every other arena could benefit from narrative resilience right now

[00:32:00] Free Content at Foreshadows

• Website: savedbystory.house
• Forward slash foreshadows has whole bunch of free content
• Helps anyone at any stage from "I have an idea" to "Am I on right track for publishing?"

[00:33:00] Tell Your Family How to Support

• Figure out how to make people around you feel safer while on amazing adventure
• Most family members really want to support, but if we don't tell them how, they don't know how

KEY QUOTES

"We're made to belong. We're made to be in a community. And the way that we do that and have for millennia is by figuring out how to be reciprocal." - Amanda Johnson

"Most of our family members really want to support, but if we don't tell them how, then they don't know how." - Amanda Johnson

CONNECT WITH AMANDA JOHNSON

🌐 Website: https://www.savedbystory.house

📄 Free Resources: https://www.savedbystory.house/foreshadows

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thestoryoracle114

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What if losing half your business in a betrayal led you to make $120,000 in 60 days on a platform everyone ignores?

In this episode, Anthony Simonie shares how being adopted by his grandparents literally saved his life and how that experience shaped everything from his approach to entrepreneurship to his decision to adopt both of his children, Miles and Daisy. After his nine-month-old son Miles stopped breathing and Anthony performed CPR not knowing if his son would survive, his business partner exploited that crisis by drawing up a fraudulent amendment that gave away half of Anthony's half of their seven-figure business.

That betrayal could have crushed him. Instead, it led Anthony to discover LinkedIn's hidden goldmine. Within 30 days, he generated $60,000 in new business plus $60,000 in recurring revenue, for $120,000 total. He did it again the next 30 days with the exact same numbers, proving it wasn't luck but a duplicatable system. Now, having helped over 1,000 clients leverage LinkedIn to build databases of affluent prospects, land strategic partnerships, and get booked on podcasts, Anthony has turned relationship-building into a science.

Anthony reveals why his five-foot-tall Italian grandmother's persistence shaped his entrepreneurial DNA, how his daughter Daisy (his niece whose parents both committed suicide within five months) is now thriving, and why Tim Tebow's words hit him like a lightning bolt: "You can be successful without having any significance."

[00:05:40] Raised by Grandparents, Saved by Adoption

• Adopted and raised by grandparents, literally saved Anthony's life
• Grandparents stepped up when they should've been enjoying retirement
• Both of Anthony's kids (Miles and Daisy) are adopted because adoption was a blessing for him
• Five-foot-tall Italian grandmother wouldn't let anyone leave without a meal, haircut, and promise to go to church

[00:07:00] Learning Entrepreneurship at Craft Shows

• Grandmother was an artist making ceramic and wooden crafts
• Anthony helped her set up and break down at craft shows
• Watched her overcome challenges as they came
• She taught persistence and perseverance that stuck with him forever

[00:08:00] The Pharmaceutical Sales Path

• Finished high school, walked onto college baseball team (paid for school for couple years)
• Became pharmaceutical sales rep like his stepdad, seemed like helping people
• Got job at Schering-Plough, did well but wasn't happy
• Started learning pharmaceutical goods may not be so good for us

[00:10:00] The Foreclosure Cleaning Business

• Buddy said "We've got this little side business cleaning out foreclosed properties"
• At first thought "I don't think I wanna clean houses"
• Had moment of "I'm just done" with corporate job
• Started business, expanded from Missouri to Los Angeles (brother in charge), then Phoenix

[00:11:00] The Dan Kennedy Event That Changed Everything

• Same friend took him to Dan Kennedy marketing event in St. Louis
• Eyes opened watching people make money helping others understand their business
• Friend said "Why don't we do it together, you be the face"
• Anthony had already turned cleaning business into real business with systems

[00:11:40] First Year: Over $1 Million

• Partnered up, grew business in first year to over $1 million
• Had to learn everything: copywriting, email, webinars, buying traffic
• At first loved the money, but then started receiving messages from people he was helping
• "You saved my marriage. You helped save me from losing my home." Hundreds of them.

[00:12:40] When It Became More Than Money

• First time felt complete: "This is so much more than just the money"
• People appreciate you, like you for what you're doing to help them
• Attorneys, physicians, everyone was losing businesses during that time
• Learning how to make income by doing something in large demand that people didn't know existed

[00:15:40] Losing Everything

• Was the beginning of everything falling apart
• Used to a certain quality of life, now worried about son and business blows up
• Lost interest in the business, couldn't do it anymore, business died
• Partner had franchised business to double dip, his franchise failed too

[00:17:20] LinkedIn Saves the Day

• Anthony: "LinkedIn? Are you trying to help me get a job? I'm not looking for a job"
• Took skills he'd learned and applied them to LinkedIn platform
• Created an offer, first 30 days sold $60,000 plus $60,000 recurring = $120,000
• Thought maybe he got lucky, then did exact same thing next 30 days with same numbers

[00:18:20] Helping Over 1,000 Clients

• Realized he had something duplicatable
• Close circle started asking what he was doing, started sharing it
• Years later, helped over 1,000 clients leverage LinkedIn
• Building databases of affluent prospects, referral partnerships, getting on podcasts, strategic partnerships

[00:19:00] Every Successful Entrepreneur Has Been Crushed

• You're gonna have ups and downs in business
• If you have fortitude to stick it out and learn from challenges, you grow
• When you talk to people at measurable level of success, all have been through steep challenges
• Sometimes way worse than Anthony's experiences

[00:23:40] Not An Agency, Highly Customized

• Not a one-size-fits-all agency approach
• Very highly customized and specific strategy depending on who you are, what you offer, who you serve
• Usually at capacity, takes on one or two new clients per month
• Recently launched "done with you" program to teach people how to run the play themselves

[00:28:40] The God Thing

• Anthony and Jill were thinking about adopting again
• Friend sent invitation to dinner for adoption agency
• Right during that timeframe, all the tragedy happened with Daisy
• "It was a God thing... put on our hearts for specific reason: to step up and take care of Daisy"

[00:30:40] Tim Tebow's Words: Success Without Significance

• At mastermind, got to watch Tim Tebow speak
• One thing stuck: "You can be successful without having any significance"
• Never heard it phrased that way before
• If all entrepreneurs adopt that mindset, we can change the world better than any politician

[00:32:20] Starting the Real Estate Fund

• Works with lots of real estate syndicators and operators
• Asked: How else can I serve these people outside of helping them make more money?
• Started real estate fund to protect capital and provide hedge against inflation
• Helps people grow their capital while protecting it

[00:35:00] Nobody Is Self-Made

• Doesn't believe anybody's self-made
• When people say "I'm a self-made millionaire" they're not being honest
• Even just your mother deciding to go through with birth, that person helped you
• There's abundance of opportunity, money, success out there for everybody

[00:40:20] Remember Why You Do What You Do

• We live in world that's so distracted, separated, at odds
• Take time every day and remember why you do what you do, who you do it for
• What's the purpose, what's the passion, how does it impact world around us
• Entrepreneurs can change the world, but it starts under our own roof

[00:42:40] Turn Off The News for 30 Days

• Challenge: Turn off news for next 30 days
• Watch how your mind clears up and you start focusing on things that matter
• You'll become more productive, have more pep in your step
• If you're business owner, you need that clarity to continue with what you're compelled to do

KEY QUOTES

"You can be successful without having any significance." - Tim Tebow (as shared by Anthony)

"I don't believe anybody's self-made. Even just your mother deciding to go through with the birth, that person helped you." - Anthony Simonie

"We as entrepreneurs can change the world in my humble opinion, but that starts with us. It starts under our own roof." - Anthony Simonie

CONNECT WITH ANTHONY SIMONIE

🌐 Website: https://www.anthonysimonie.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.simonie.1

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonysimonie

📄 Free LinkedIn Profile Guide: https://foundmoneypartnerships.com/linkedin-profile-secrets-guide?fpr=kevin93

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What if Forrest Gump taught a six-year-old how to never worry about money again?

In this episode, Jerremy Newsome shares how watching Forrest Gump at age six sparked a question that changed everything: "What does it mean to not have to worry about money?" That question led him to pick blackberries door-to-door, earning $1,500 that his dad matched to buy $3,000 worth of Apple stock in 1995. While those shares would be worth $39 million today, Jerremy sold them in 2000 for $12,000. That early win, and the lesson from selling too soon, ignited a 20-year journey mastering liquid markets.

Now Jerremy helps people understand stocks, options, crypto, and other "liquid markets" using what he calls "second grade math" to achieve financial freedom. He shares the story of Jordan, a police officer making $80,000 a year who recently made more in one month trading than his entire monthly salary. But Jerremy's impact goes beyond teaching trading. When he stood up at a Vail event and matched $40,000 in donations for blind and special needs children learning to ski, he didn't just change those kids' lives. He turned a skeptic named Preston Brown into a lifelong friend and business ally.

Jerremy reveals how meeting his wife at a Tony Robbins event, connecting with business partner Brittany Turner through Instagram, and operating from abundance instead of scarcity has created a life where impact matters more than income.

[00:04:00] The Forrest Gump Moment That Changed Everything

• At age six, watching Forrest Gump with his dad and brother when Lieutenant Dan "invested in some kind of fruit company"
• Growing up poor, hearing someone didn't have to worry about money was a huge paradigm shift
• Asked his dad what investing meant, learned about Apple as a computer company
• Dad gave every excuse: "I don't have time, I'm not smart enough, I don't have enough money"

[00:05:20] Picking Blackberries to Buy Apple Stock

• Dad said "If you bring me some money, I'll match it dollar for dollar"
• Jerremy's favorite quote: "It's not your resources, it's your resourcefulness"
• Picked blackberries, sold them door-to-door for a dollar a bag in summer 1995
• Made $1,500, dad borrowed from uncle to match, bought $3,000 of Apple at exact bottom

[00:06:00] The $39 Million Lesson

• Those shares today worth about $39 million
• Sold them in 2000 for $12,000 when family moved from Georgia to Florida
• Dad called it "the best investment, the best trade I'd ever make my whole life"
• Got $12,000 at age 12 and has been studying markets "like a heathen" ever since

[00:07:00] From History Teacher Dream to Teaching Financial Freedom

• Wanted to be history teacher since fourth grade, teacher said "You don't get paid any money"
• Has blend of entrepreneur spirit and teacher spirit
• Loves learning unique things and teaching them simply because that's how he learns
• Teaches "liquid markets": stocks, options, crypto, futures, bonds, gold, silver, commodities

[00:08:00] Making Complex Things Simple

• What motivates him: helping people understand complex subjects and explaining them easily
• When someone learns something and it clicks, that energizes him more than anything
• Teaches "second grade math to how to become financially free as quick as possible"
• If you have access to internet, you have access to income once you have knowledge and tools

[00:09:20] Jordan the Police Officer's Transformation

• Started working with Jordan 7-8 months ago, police officer in Northern California making $80,000/year
• Jordan said police officers are massively undertrained, don't have equipment/knowledge for wide array of situations
• Last month Jordan made more trading than his monthly salary
• Made $12,000 net on $60,000 account (20% return in one month)

[00:11:20] From Scarcity to Abundance

• Jordan paying off debts, taking wife and kids to Disneyland
• Using money to feel abundant, taste prosperity, be in place of creation versus fear
• Most people find themselves in scarcity when it comes to money
• The opportunity to create income exists every single day in the stock market

[00:12:20] Giving People Choices and Freedom

• Jordan now realizes he has choices and options
• For entrepreneurs doing $500K-$3M, you're in the swamp: making enough to do well but not enough to be free
• Mindset shift from "I have to work to make money" to "I get to create to attract more value"
• Making (grinding energy) versus attracting/receiving/creating (different energy)

[00:15:40] Two People Who Changed Everything

• His wife: Met at Tony Robbins UPW event November 4, 2012 in Orlando
• Brittany Turner: Reached out via Instagram in February 2020 through mutual connection
• Both have helped him heal, expand, and step into greatness

[00:16:00] Meeting His Wife at Tony Robbins

• Boss said "you really should go to this Tony Robbins event called UPW"
• Met his wife at Unleash the Power Within in Orlando
• Took 12 years to figure it out, got married about five years ago
• Have three boys together, she's helped him expand and step into greatness

[00:17:00] The Brittany Turner Partnership

• Needed real estate specialist for his Money Grows on Trees conference
• Sent Brittany Turner video via Instagram DM in February 2020
• In coming-up-on-six-year relationship: organizations built, purpose stepped into, islands, investments, opportunities
• Alignment with someone who brings joy, understanding, and awareness of more into your life

[00:18:40] The Web of Million Dollar Connections

• Brittany introduced him to Ané Gupta (relationship specialist)
• Ané introduced him to Chuck Hogan who ran Your Best Life mastermind
• Chuck's mastermind had three main members: Chuck, Dean, and Preston Brown
• Got asked to speak at event in Vail, Colorado in February 2022

[00:19:40] The $80,000 Donation That Changed a Relationship

• Organization helping blind and special needs kids learn to ski said "$5,000 would change our whole life"
• Preston Brown admittedly didn't like Jerremy before they met
• Jerremy stood up and said "I will match every donation given today"
• Room raised over $40,000, Jerremy matched $40,000 for $80,000 total to Little Champions

[00:21:00] From Skeptic to Lifelong Friend

• Preston came up afterwards, gave hug: "You are my guy, that reminded me of Christ"
• "Between me and you, we'll be friends for life"
• Preston has given so much business, referrals, opportunities since
• Coming to Vegas this weekend with 40 entrepreneurs for "radical business"

[00:23:00] When Making More Money Ceases to Inspire

• Kevin: Once family needs are met, making more money ceased to inspire him
• Having conversations with entrepreneurs, making introductions that lead to big deals, that's what inspires
• It's not the revenue, it's the impact
• Les Brown taught Jerremy: "Your income is directly tied to your impact"

[00:25:40] Connecting with Jerremy

• Name spelled J-E-R-R-E-M-Y (stands for Jerry + Me, his dad's name was Jerry)
• Newsome: N-E-W-S-O-M-E.com
• All social media platforms, look for blue verified check mark
• Broke to Woke podcast with Brittany Turner (six seasons, 24 episodes, season seven coming)

[00:27:00] Ask For More

• Awareness of what's possible comes by asking for more
• It's okay to want more so you can offer more, provide more, give more
• God is the God of infinite, receiving more doesn't take away from anyone else
• "Those who knock, door is opened" - ask for more and change your awareness

KEY QUOTES

"It's not your resources, it's your resourcefulness. That's probably what entrepreneurship is." - Jerremy Newsome

"If you have access to the internet, you have access to income once you have the knowledge and the skills and the tools." - Jerremy Newsome

"The secret to living is giving, and one of the best things to give is the gift of a relationship." - Jerremy Newsome

"Your income is directly tied to your impact. You wanna make more, figure out a way to impact more." - Les Brown (quoted by Jerremy)

CONNECT WITH JERREMY NEWSOME

🌐 Website: https://www.jerremynewsome.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jerremy.Newsome

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerremynewsome

🎙️ Podcast: Broke to Woke (with Brittany Turner)

🎙️ Podcast: Solving America's Problems

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What if an entire family's trajectory changed in a single moment of tragedy?

In this episode, Stephen Woessner, founder of Predictive ROI, shares the remarkable story of his grandfather Peter Marus, who arrived in America in 1920 with just $10 and couldn't speak English. After his father was murdered on the streets of Istanbul for being Greek, eight-year-old Peter became the family breadwinner, dropping out of third grade to support his mother and siblings. That singular tragedy transformed his family's DNA, creating a lineage of entrepreneurs that spans four generations.

Stephen reveals how his grandfather's business philosophy during the Great Depression, giving away more soup than he sold because "Jesus might look like anyone," shaped his own approach to business and giving. Now running an agency that serves other agencies, Stephen and his wife have quietly paid thousands in tuition for struggling families, honoring his grandfather's sacrifice while pursuing an audacious vision: building 100 churches and funding college educations for as many kids as possible.

Stephen explains why education is the great equalizer, how one moment of violence created an entire family of business owners, and what it means to honor the risks your ancestors took by working late into the night when you'd rather sleep.

[00:03:00] The Corey Morris Connection

• Kevin and Stephen connected through Corey Morris and felt like they'd known each other for years
• Stephen: "When Corey introduces me to somebody, there's the transference of trust and credibility"
• The power of context in introductions versus generic "you're both great guys" connections
• Trust transfers through quality, contextual connections

[00:06:40] Family First, Business Second

• Married 32 years to Christine, daughter Caitlyn is freshman in college
• Stephen and Christine were married 14 years before having Caitlyn
• On "empty nesting": "I think we're gonna be okay" spending time together again

[00:07:00] Building Predictive ROI

• Started Predictive ROI in 2009 with team of 26 who genuinely care about each other
• Uses the "forbidden love word" inside the business
• Agency supports other agencies with business development and sales operations
• Team travels together, hangs out together, laughs and cries together

[00:09:20] The Unlikely Path to Agency Life

• Grew up in Canton, Ohio surrounded by family restaurant businesses
• Graduated 272 out of 300 in high school ("I don't think you got your percentiles right, Mom")
• Joined Air Force in junior year, spent four years in nuclear missile silos in South Dakota
• Learned power of troubleshooting and system design

[00:11:00] Breaking Into Advertising

• Working at Red Lobster, needed marketing experience to become manager
• Called agencies in Rapid City offering to work for free, most said he was "greener than green"
• Robert Sharp and Associates said yes to three-month unpaid internship
• Competed against two other interns: "There's no way I'm not winning this"

[00:16:00] What Inspires the Work

• Changing trajectory from famine to feast in business development
• Replacing desperation with hope, confidence, and structure
• Creating dependable sales pipelines that open new possibilities for agencies

[00:17:40] The Everest Mission

• Business goals mapped on office wall, but real "why" is building 100 churches
• Put as many kids through college as possible
• Stephen: "Education is a great equalizer"
• Business profits fund impact, not the other way around

[00:20:40] Peter Marus: The Man Who Changed Everything

• Born 1902 in Istanbul, Turkey
• Father murdered on streets when Peter was eight for being Greek
• Dropped out of third grade to become breadwinner for mom and two younger siblings
• At 18 (1920), came to United States with $10 and no English

[00:22:20] Building The Ideal Restaurant

• Came to Canton, Ohio, started washing dishes and cutting vegetables
• Traded skills for money, saved everything
• Six years later, opened The Ideal restaurant in downtown Canton
• Got married, had four kids

[00:23:20] The Depression Philosophy

• Gave away more soup than he sold during the Great Depression
• Peter's response when asked why: "I know Jesus is coming back someday. I don't know what he's gonna look like, so I'm just gonna be kind to everybody"
• Entire business plan: "If you take care of your customer, they will take care of you"
• And he was right

[00:24:20] Papu: 14 Years of Living Proof

• Stephen called him "Papu" (Greek for grandfather), passed away when Stephen was 14
• For 14 years, showed Stephen what it meant to be good person, take care of people, sacrifice for family
• Stephen: "I didn't hear somebody just talk about it. I saw somebody live it"

[00:25:40] When DNA Changes in a Moment

• Stephen believes when great-grandfather was murdered, family DNA changed to entrepreneurs
• Peter's four kids all became restaurateurs
• All 10 grandkids became business owners
• 100% of family downstream became entrepreneurs

[00:28:00] From Poor Student to Education Advocate

• Peter had only third grade education but was incredibly intelligent
• Never stopped reading and consuming knowledge with fervor for education
• Stephen got four college degrees through Air Force
• Now wants to put as many kids through college as possible in Peter's honor

[00:29:20] Becoming a Partner in Three Years

• Told agency president: "I want to be an owner in this business"
• Set five-year goal, worked hard, badgered the president
• Accomplished it in three years instead

[00:30:00] The Late Night Work Ethic

• Peter's photo framed on Stephen's office wall as daily reminder
• At night when tired: "I think I can send one more email"
• Has privilege to do what he does because Peter took all those risks
• Grandmother's struggle from Crete to America was horrendous too

[00:32:00] The $5,186 Check That Changed Lives

• First time Stephen has shared this story publicly
• 15 years ago at back-to-school night, wondered if families were struggling with tuition
• Principal Bob said family's business failing, owed $5,186, had to pull kids out
• Stephen brought check that day, one condition: complete anonymity
• Received anonymous thank you letter, Stephen and Christine crying in kitchen: "We need to do more of that"

[00:36:00] The Gift of Receiving

• Kevin's realization 13 years ago: not receiving deprives others of joy of giving
• Family foundation gives kids debit card at Christmas to find struggling families
• Kids shop for gifts/food, deliver everything themselves
• Oldest daughter: "Dad, I wish I could just do that all the time"

[00:38:40] Blossom Garden Orphanage

• Kevin's family supports Jamaica orphanage for years, takes trips to spend time with kids
• Kids call it "white people day" when they visit
• First trip son Brock was 3, only white kid in photo, completely oblivious
• Now take kids' school friends, parents amazed when they return with new perspective

KEY QUOTES

"You know, I know that Jesus is coming back someday. I don't know what he's gonna look like, so I'm just gonna be kind to everybody." - Peter Marus (Stephen's grandfather)

"If you take care of your customer, they will take care of you." - Peter Marus

"In that moment that my great-grandfather was murdered in Istanbul, everything downstream changed. We became entrepreneurs." - Stephen Woessner

"Education is a great equalizer. If you want to change somebody's trajectory, give them education." - Stephen Woessner

CONNECT WITH STEPHEN WOESSNER

🌐 Website: https://www.predictiveroi.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwoessner

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What if a stranger inviting you to build a boat halfway around the world led to meeting your wife, building a family, and discovering your life's work?

In this episode, John Caprani, video advertising specialist for home service businesses, shares his unconventional journey from Ireland to West Africa to Fiji and finally to Spain. After meeting a Swiss sailor named Hans in 2011, John packed everything for a one-way ticket to Senegal to build a 72-foot wooden sailboat. That adventure led to a job in Fiji doing construction project management, where he met his wife within six weeks, married her six months later, and became a father 10 months after that.

Six years later, with two kids under three and a deep dissatisfaction with his corporate job, John made the leap into entrepreneurship at age 37. Now specializing in video advertising for home service businesses generating $1M to $5M annually, he's helped clients book $800K in 30 days and $95K in 40 days using a simple approach that most marketers overlook: putting the founder on camera and building trust through personality instead of just showcasing work.

John reveals why trust matters more than perfect craftsmanship when entering someone's home, why employees can never sell as effectively as founders on video, and how narrowing his focus to home services transformed his results.

[00:02:20] The Technology That Makes the World Smaller

• John is in Valencia, Spain (nine hours ahead of Seattle)
• Zoom and modern technology make global conversations seamless
• Kevin used to commercial fish in Alaska before technology like this existed
• The ability to work from anywhere is now a reality

[00:04:00] What John Does: Video Advertising for Home Service Businesses

• Spent years as a copywriter but found it hard to sell to uneducated buyers
• Shifted 18 months ago to focus specifically on home service businesses
• Serves businesses doing upgrades: walls, paving, air conditioning, barns, storage units, renovations, landscaping
• Specializes in video advertising on Facebook and Instagram only
• Works with businesses selling high-ticket services for the home

[00:06:33] Why Home Services Is Different: Trust Over Technique

• Local business marketing is not as sophisticated as e-commerce or online coaching
• Most local businesses aren't doing video marketing at all
• Those who do focus on work being done (pictures of installations) which doesn't solve the real problem
• John's approach: focus on personality and the business owner themselves

[00:08:38] Kevin's Parallel Journey: Carpet Cleaning in 1995

• Started carpet cleaning and restoration business in 1995
• Blew through $300K in first year following traditional industry approach
• Advertised "two rooms and a hallway for $59.95" (then dropped to $49.95)
• Key lesson: trust is huge when you're in people's homes while they're at work

[00:13:04] John's Background: From Father's Business to Sailing

• Father was entrepreneur in publishing, graphic arts, and printing
• Tried entrepreneurial things as teenager but they didn't work out
• Spent twenties traveling, went to UK, learned woodworking skills
• Learned artisan craft skills, made lovely things, lived hand to mouth existence
• Everything changed when he got married, needed more stability

[00:14:20] The Construction Years: Getting Promoted Out of Success

• Friend offered job in construction industry doing project management for holiday resort renovations
• Was good at project management, actually being on site
• Got promoted out of job he was good at into job he sucked at: marketing and sales
• Had to learn copywriting and marketing to sell to traveling business clients

[00:15:40] The Big Decision: Quit at 37 with Two Kids Under Three

• In 2018, didn't want to stay in construction, wanted freedom
• Knew online meant he could travel, move countries, income unaffected
• Was 37, married, two kids under age three
• Had enough money to live for maybe three or four months
• Quit job in September 2018, got first couple of clients, took it from there

[00:20:16] The Jockey and the Horse

• John likens his role to being a jockey
• "The horse you ride on is most of the race won"
• Not magic on his part, certain factors need to be in place
• When it works, it really works

[00:22:00] The Sweet Spot: Five to Fifteen Person Teams

• Prefers smaller businesses: 5-15 people team
• Direct relationship with founder
• No layers of bureaucracy
• Say "Can you help me?" John says "Yes," they say "Okay, let 'er rip"
• Bigger businesses (20-30+ people) have marketing team in-house, bureaucracy, people covering their own ass

[00:23:08] The Non-Negotiable: A Good Assistant on the Phone

• John needs business owner to have assistant who is good on the phone
• When leads come in, owner should NOT be doing screening or appointment setting
• Owners are often best salesperson but definitely not best appointment setter
• They start to hate it because it's beneath them, then they hate John

[00:27:00] The One-Way Ticket to Senegal

• Hans said: "I'm not gonna buy your ticket there, but I'll pay for everything after. I want to see that you get there on your own steam"
• "Show up at Dakar Airport in Senegal on such and such day, I'll be there to pick you up"
• John packed up, sold his vehicle, got one-way ticket to Dakar
• Worked together for 10-11 months building the boat, launched it, did sailing together

[00:27:47] The German Guy in Fiji

• Hans was going to sail elsewhere, John didn't want to go back to Ireland
• Asked Hans: "Do you know anybody else who might have something interesting?"
• Hans: "I know this German guy in Fiji doing work on holiday resorts"
• German guy called a few days later: "I need a man. Can you be here in two weeks?"
• John: "Would you buy me a ticket?" German: "I'll send you a ticket today"
• Packed up from London, jumped on plane to Fiji

[00:29:40] From Project Management to Sales to Entrepreneurship

• Started doing dusty construction project management on site in Fiji
• Got better at job, got promoted to sales
• Had to learn about selling
• Led to 2018 decision: "I have these sales skills, I know copywriting, I want out of construction, let's quit and go do my own thing"

[00:30:06] The Big Leap: Married, Kids, No Steady Paycheck

• Pretty big step going from steady paycheck to own thing
• Mentally tough, but felt like it was now or never at 37 with two kids under three
• "Gun to the head moment, and gun to the head is a great motivator"
• Family helped: gave them place to stay while getting on feet in Ireland
• Wife was rock solid: "I don't understand why you're doing this, but if you want to do it, I'll support you"

[00:32:20] The Turning Point: Everything's Actually Okay

• About 18 months after quitting, I was constantly worried: "Is this gonna fail?"
• Looked at himself: "Everything's okay. We've still got a place to live. Kids still have shoes. We have food. Nobody's going hungry"
• "This might not be working perfectly, but it's working. I've covered the basics. We're surviving and I can grow from here"

[00:33:20] Five Years Later: Life in Valencia, Spain

• In 2024, decided time to move on from Ireland
• Glad to spend those years there, reconnect with family
• Wanted kids to know his family, wanted wife to become Irish citizen
• Sold up everything, packed into two cars, road tripped from Ireland to Spain
• Life has become so much better since moving to Spain

[00:36:00] The Integration Life: No Rules About When You Work

• Don't have work-life balance with entrepreneurship
• Do get work-life integration if you're smart about it
• Bring everything in, don't live by rules about finishing work at certain time or can't do anything on weekends
• Do what you can when you can, find time to get everything in

[00:39:38] Where to Find John

• Website: firedigitalmarketing.com (short video explaining what he does and how it helps)
• Facebook: John Caprani (most active there)
• Can get sense of who he is, his opinions and thoughts before reaching out
• Best place to connect

[00:42:40] Repetition Over Perfection

• First time around won't be perfect, won't be what you feel is perfect in your mind
• Kevin's coach had him make 24-25 videos in one day walking through a process
• Every time got more comfortable, didn't have to think about what to say, got the flow

[00:44:06] What Really Works: Belief and Confidence

• All the fancy copywriting, hacks, tactics are good, valuable, useful
• But what really works better than anything else: somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves
• That'll convert better than anything

KEY QUOTES

"If you are an eight out of 10 at your work, but you're like 10 out of 10 in terms of a human being and being trustworthy, people would care about that more than being a 10 out of 10 in the work and maybe being a five out of 10 in the character side of things." - John Caprani

"Gun to the head is a great motivator. It'll get you to do shit you wouldn't normally do." - John Caprani

"You don't get work-life balance [as an entrepreneur], but you do get work-life integration if you're smart about it." - John Caprani

"There's nobody but the founder of a business who really has the conviction and has enough on the line to actually sell it as effectively on video." - John Caprani

"All the different fancy copywriting and hacks and tactics, in the end, what really works better than anything else is somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves. That'll convert better than anything." - John Caprani

CONNECT WITH JOHN CAPRANI

🌐 Website: https://www.firedigitalmarketing.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jdcaprani

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncaprani

🌐 Personal Website: https://www.johncaprani.com

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What if the most important person in your life handed you their most powerful peer group and said "yes you can" when you were certain you couldn't?

In this episode, Natalie Michael, executive coach and CEO Forum Chair with 20 years of experience guiding leaders through transitions, shares her journey from psychology studies and consciousness research to becoming the person who holds space for some of the most powerful entrepreneurs in Canada. After riding the .com boom from 2 million to 30 million in four years with no outside venture capital, Natalie learned what she loved and what exhausted her about the entrepreneurial journey, forcing her to dig deep into who she was and what she wanted.

From her first CEO client (who shocked her by saying yes) to the moment the founder of McKay Forums handed her a peer group filled with billion-dollar CEOs and told her "yes you can" when she was certain she couldn't, Natalie's story reveals the power of someone seeing your potential before you do. Through her work as a Tiger 21 chair and coaching founders through exits worth hundreds of millions, she's witnessed that the people who get there with their spirit intact aren't driven by money, but by contribution, challenge, and a deep understanding of what really matters.

Natalie shares why "the money is the outcome" but the journey is everything, how one entrepreneur taught her that "home is where my wife is," and why she's learning to build a life she never wants to retire from through silent weekends and putting her needs on the calendar first.

[00:04:35] The Journey: From Psychology to CEO Transitions

• Studied psychology with deep interest in consciousness studies, mindset, brain, spirituality, and how they all intersect
• Through that process realized what she loved and what exhausted her about entrepreneurial journey
• Had to do soul searching to figure out what was more important than her options plan
• A lot of the journey exhausted her
• Had to dig deep: who am I, what do I want, how do I want this journey to look for me?

[00:07:20] Witnessing the Journey: Money as Outcome, Not Driver

• Has ringside seat to the journey through clients she serves
• Number of clients have had hundred million dollar exits
• People who get there with their spirit intact are driven not by money
• They're driven by sense of contribution and challenge, and often a restlessness
• Didn't understand this earlier but witnesses it the higher up she gets in entrepreneurial space

[00:08:18] What Natalie Does: Supporting CEOs at Crossroads

• Supports founders and CEOs to figure out what's next
• Looking at how the CEO role does or doesn't fit into that
• How founder or CEO needs to support that process
• All the nuances, politics, and emotions that go along with it

[00:09:21] The Arc: Moving Up, In, or Out of the C-Suite

• Works with people trying to become a CEO (moving up into C-suite)
• With demographics right now, a lot of people thinking about moving out
• One client was so stressed about his business he sold off locations in almost a fire sale because he couldn't deal anymore

[00:11:04] Results That Matter: The Art of Each Client

• Doesn't associate results with being proud
• More about the acknowledgment the client provides as they move through the experience
• When you get to this level with people, you're in each other's circle of trust
• Like a deep friend from high school: might not talk every day, but when you do, you pick up where you left off

[00:12:43] The Timeline: 15 Years of Building This Work

• Doing this work in various forms for about 15 years
• Real focus and commitment to CEO transitions as the focus and CEO Next Chapter has been about seven years

[00:15:52] The Relationship That Changed Everything: "Yes You Can"

• Looked at the bios: one running a billion dollar company, one running huge Crown Corporation, one was top entrepreneur
• "I cannot do this. No way"
• Founder looked at her and said: "Yes you can. No one's better than you. I totally have faith. You can do this"
• Combined founder's faith in her with her own personal development around holding space for powerful people
• That's what her whole career's been built on

[00:19:58] The Entrepreneur Who Taught Her What Matters

• Through that experience, been exposed to people who continue to inspire her
• Fortunate in her forum to have a man who on paper is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in Canada
• Built multiple businesses, highly successful, has a foundation
• So rooted in his family and his love of a challenge as being his driver
• When you see someone like that behave like that, it gives you permission to put that stuff first

[00:24:45] The Tiger 21 Reality: Life After the Exit

• Work as Tiger 21 chair is "life after the exit or when you're thinking about what's next"
• A lot of people think those conversations are about squeezing a percentage point on investments
• Rented a house on an island by herself, meditated, walked in the woods every day, just found herself again
• Said it was really hard because she was so addicted to feeding her restless energy with action
• Created a clearing that allowed her to step into what was new from a new identity

[00:31:15] Building a Life You Never Want to Retire From

• "That's kind of the thing that I hold for my clients. It's like, how do you build a life you never wanna retire from?"
• Reading a book called The 100 Year Life
• Purpose, relationships, money, and health are all catalysts for being fulfilled
• For Natalie: if she puts her stuff in her calendar first (things she needs to nourish herself and be healthy and engaged), that goes in first

[00:33:39] Silence Weekends: Decompressing the Chatter

• Started playing with silence weekends, new thing in last couple years
• Already planning for next one
• Three days where she goes into the forest, has a bit of a back country experience, does it by herself
• Very important part of how she wants to serve and lead in the world

[00:35:24] Where to Find Natalie & CEO Next Chapter

• Website: ceonextchapter.com (very easy to remember)
• "That's essentially the essence of what we do in the world"
• Thanks Kevin for doing his work in the world and inviting her
• Inspiring to her, both the question he asked and the choice he made in his own work to focus on relationships

KEY QUOTES

"I had value. I add value, I'm adding value, I'm adding value. Listen to add value, listen to add value." - Natalie Michael's mantra

"The money is the outcome... but oftentimes the people who get there with their spirit intact, they're driven not by the money. They're driven by a sense of contribution and challenge, and often restlessness." - Natalie Michael

"Each time I get a client, it's like a little piece of art. It's my art. And so it's more about the relationship we have as we go through it. That is what is deeply gratifying." - Natalie Michael

CONNECT WITH NATALIE MICHAEL

🌐 Website: https://www.ceonextchapter.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-michael-01a7361

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What if everything you built (the money, the status, the business success) left your heart completely empty?

In this episode, Dane Maxwell, serial entrepreneur and founder of The Foundation and Paperless Pipeline, shares his raw journey from "3D success" to discovering his sacred calling. After launching more than a dozen businesses and achieving what most would call the dream (money, freedom, recognition), Dane found himself with a hollow heart. Through a prophetic message in a church, answered prayers, and divine signs, he reclaimed the gift he'd buried 10 years earlier: his voice and music.

From training 2,000 students (including two billionaires) to singing improvised songs that help people take their most difficult actions, Dane's story reveals the difference between performing for validation and surrendering to become "a flute that the divine blows its breath through." He discusses spiritual hierarchy, the power of slowing down, and why being wanted by God matters more than being wanted by the world.

Dane reveals why music is sacred (not about fame or sex), how four signs in one week confirmed his calling, and what it means to approach life from the inside out instead of outside in.

[00:02:28] Meeting at Destiny Fest: A Three-Hour Conversation That Wouldn't End

• Kevin and Dane met at Giovanni Marsico's Destiny Fest in Toronto
• Sat at dinner table for hours after everyone else left
• Dane performed an entirely improvised musical piece on stage for 1,400 people
• Kevin's been connected to Gio for 14 years, watching the vision grow from a dinner conversation to nearly 2,000 attendees

[00:05:45] The Philosophy: Greatness in the Moment

• Most people rehearse before presenting to 1,400 people
• Dane chose to "dangle by a string," the string of present-moment creation
• Believes the next evolution of events is not rehearsed but "moment oriented"
• "I wanted to be present with people instead of rehearsed"
• Magic happens when people are willing to risk unpreparedness

[00:07:54] Current Mission: Music for Difficult Actions

• Creating songs that help people take the most difficult actions in their lives
• Actions that would dramatically improve their lives in 90 days
• Examples: losing weight, starting a business, going to the gym, writing a book, picking up a new hobby
• Not telling people what to think, singing pure possibility and inspiration into their hearts

[00:13:40] The Problem: 3D Success with an Empty Heart

• Had all the external markers of success: money, time freedom, status, women
• "3D success," everything in the physical, three-dimensional world
• But his heart felt completely empty
• Realized he'd been "distracted by success" as a safe, socially acceptable way to avoid vulnerability
• Business felt safe; true connection and music felt vulnerable

[00:15:06] How Men Are Stripped of Their Power

• "You make them believe that the outside world can make them happy"
• Make men believe worth is achievement, status, attention
• The world is designed to engineer us to strip us of our power
• Jesus had a donkey and white robe but was "beaming with power"
• External trappings (beautiful women, cars, homes) are an illusion when coming from a dissociated place

[00:19:00] The Spiritual Hierarchy and Heart Pursuit

• Jesus's heart field could reportedly be felt from two miles away (average is 15-50 feet)
• Dane was raised Christian with teaching that "the heart is deceitful and wicked"
• Felt he couldn't trust his own heart, so wrapped it in external things
• Realized the teaching was "not being communicated or translated correctly"
• Started approaching life inside out instead of outside in

[00:21:06] The Turning Point: Slowing Down and Hearing "Sing"

• Heart kept feeling empty despite business success
• Slowed down and heard the word "sing"
• Initial resistance: "I'm a six-foot-one 42-year-old white male, I don't look like a singer"
• Thought he was "such a broken man" that performing for others was the best he could do
• Admits: "When I say I don't know what I'm doing, it's very honest"

[00:24:00] Teaching Wealth: The Karma of Money

• Taught 2,000 students how to build wealth
• Two billionaire students, one valued at $1 billion, one student exited for $500 million
• Half of students did very well, other half probably shouldn't have bought the program
• Friend Danielle LaPorte said people have their own "karma to sort out with money"

[00:24:30] The Church Moment: Getting His Gift Back

• Age 31, attending Bethel Church (Holy Spirit-led church)
• Pastor stops mid-worship, points directly at him: "Son, I just got a message from God"
• "He didn't trust you with a gift, so he took it away. But he trusts you with it now, so he gave it back"
• Dane's hand went to his throat, realized it was his singing voice
• Had trained intensely for his first open mic at age 21

[00:28:20] Eleven Years of Fear and Teetering

• 11 years since that church moment
• Released four albums, done shows, played for 1,400 people
• But always "teetering around it"
• Wasn't sure if he was authentically interested or just trying to impress people
• Admitted fear: maybe doing it "to get laid" (common male conditioning around music)

[00:29:00] The Week of Signs: Music Is Sacred

• Got hypnotherapy session to bring more freedom to singing
• During hypnosis, saw subconscious belief: "I'm just trying to do this to get laid"
• Sign #1: Massage therapist's hat said "MUSIC IS SACRED"
• Sign #2: Someone wrote "I hope you're doing music"
• Sign #3: On a business Zoom, someone private messaged "Hey, how's music?"
• Sign #4: Woman he used to date said "Obviously you're supposed to be doing music"

[00:36:29] Rumi and Becoming a Flute for the Divine

• Quotes Rumi: "I am but a flute that the Christ blows its breath through"
• In spiritual hierarchy, highest level before God is Lord Christ
• Jesus was "Christed," fully surrendered mediator for Lord Christ
• Got off stage thinking "nobody got any flavor of me, I blew it"
• Heard hysterical laughter (maybe angels): "You were just an instrument for love"

[00:39:40] The Mecca of Bliss

• Bob Dylan and Michael Jordan have "an extra sense of something else"
• That's spiritual connection coming through their work
• "That's the mecca, the mecca of bliss"
• Dissolve all sense of self, merge with Christ, allow God's love to flow through

[00:40:20] Approaching Life Inside Out

• Doesn't have hot girlfriend, sexy car, amazing mansion anymore
• "Am I way happier than when I had any of that stuff? Does any of me want any of that stuff? Maybe if it's aligned"
• Not an ache because approaching life from inside out
• If something feels "authentic to my core," he'll get it
• Deep enough in his body now to not fool himself

[00:41:40] The Vocal Cord Miracle and Feeling Unwanted

• Went to ear, nose, throat doctor after the church message
• Doctor put camera down his throat, looked at vocal cords
• "Dane, your vocal cords look pristine"
• The four signs made him "feel so wanted by God"
• Mother was concert-level flute player, listened to sophisticated music in the womb

[00:46:20] Holy Spirit Working Through Connection

• Marcus Collier told Kevin: "This is the Holy Spirit working through you"
• Making introductions and connections is being a vessel
• When you allow it, you become more effective
• They want more of that feeling

[00:49:36] Where to Find Dane and Final Message

• Instagram: @musicbydane (Music by Dane)
• Website: danemaxwell.com (book, businesses, principles)
• Encourages Christians: stay where you are, it's close to God
• Book recommendation: "The Great Work of Your Life"
• "May anybody who loves God the way they do continue to love God the way they do"

KEY QUOTES

"How do you strip men of their power? You make them believe that the outside world can make them happy. You make them believe that worth is an achievement. That worth is status, that worth is attention." - Dane Maxwell

"What we're supposed to be doing with our life is evolving our consciousness to such a state that we can become a completely surrendered vessel for the divine love of God to flow through. That's the mecca, the mecca of bliss." - Dane Maxwell

"I've felt so unwanted on the earth and in my life, and just such a deep degree of unwantedness, which was a product of the conditioning of the nineties, which is you have to be a certain way to be wanted." - Dane Maxwell

"In Isaiah they say, and the Lord said, whom shall I send? And I said, here am I. Send me." - Isaiah (quoted by Dane)

CONNECT WITH DANE MAXWELL

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/musicbydane

🌐 Website: https://www.danemaxwell.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dane-maxwell-b7105b5b

Thanks for tuning in!

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What if the most important decision you ever made was trusting someone who saw your potential before you fully saw it yourself?

In this episode, Morgan Nichols, CEO of Life Branch Wealth Partners and financial advisor, shares her journey from a 25-year-old in corporate finance loading up a U-Haul and driving cross-country to lead a financial advisory practice in Texas. As the first born of two financial advisors, Morgan was "destined" for this work, but it was her father-in-law Gary's belief in her potential that gave her the springboard to build a multi-state practice with offices in three states and serve four generations of the same family.

From working in a male-dominated sales environment where she was the youngest person on the desk to becoming CEO and co-authoring "Intentional Legacy" with partner Kelly Base, Morgan's story reveals the power of relationships that see who you can become. Through fertility challenges overcome with the help of two incredible doctors, she now wakes up every morning with her three-year-old daughter as her "why," a constant reminder that we get one shot at this life, so we might as well make it as intentional and impactful as possible.

Morgan shares why achievement without purpose left her asking "why do we work so hard?", how opposite strengths with the right partner create relationship gold, and why showing up with gratitude and goodness puts us on the right foot to make million-dollar impacts we might never even see coming.

[00:05:20] What Morgan Does: Financial Advisor with a Different Approach

• Financial advisor and CEO of Life Branch Wealth Partners
• Careful to define "financial advisor" - not just transactional relationships
• Works with clients covering all areas of financial lives
• Serves individuals, families with larger portfolios, and small business owners
• Helps clients navigate financial peace of mind

[00:06:32] Leading a Multi-State Practice: Growth-Minded Excellence

• CEO of practice with offices in three states:
• Grapevine, Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth area)
• Harrisonburg, Virginia

• Chicagoland area, Illinois

• Loves learning about industry changes and simplifying for clients

• Leads a team, trains younger advisors
• Works with well-seasoned advisors, sharing perspectives
• Building a team focused on making a difference in the lives of others

[00:07:45] Destined for This Work: The Apple Didn't Fall Far

• First born of two financial advisors
• After college, took a job in Boston in wholesaling, corporate finance
• Enjoyed opportunities and learning ground
• Recognized that for some people, personal finance makes their eyes glaze over; they just want to delegate it

[00:09:18] Most Impactful Result: Four Generations of One Family

• Works with four generations of one family
• Started with one generation in the middle: husband and wife in their 30s trying to raise children and manage life
• Over time, ended up working with the parents and grandparents
• Heartwarming to know the whole family line is seeing the benefit of planning

[00:12:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Gary's Leap of Faith

• Father-in-law Gary is the advisor who gave her the career opportunity
• At 25, working in corporate finance in Boston, thought she was doing pretty good
• Had opportunity to leave Boston, load up U-Haul, drive across country
• Without that opportunity, she wouldn't have ability to springboard the way she is today
• Achievement is one of her core values, and this relationship helped her grow her career

[00:16:34] Finding Relationship Gold: Kelly Base and Opposite Strengths

• Kelly Base is an advisor on her team
• Co-authored book "Intentional Legacy" together over the past year
• Met in 2023 through a women's entrepreneurial group
• Having more fun in their career than they ever could have imagined
• "We have to find people that compliment our strengths and can also speak truth in our lives so we can become the sharpest versions of ourselves and sharpen one another"

[00:19:20] The Million-Dollar Question: Why Do We Work So Hard?

• Very driven, wired a certain way
• Can work all day, come home, be fulfilled in career
• When she really dove into her values, realized family really matters
• Area families don't always talk about: challenges with fertility, having a family
• Felt sharing her story was important so others can feel comfortable sharing theirs

[00:20:00] The Gift of Life: Two Doctors and a Miracle

• Had two doctors in her life who navigated the challenge with her
• Journey from "we don't think you're gonna be able to have children" to having a beautiful daughter
• In the spirit of intention, being achievement-minded and a mom
• "I've got my work baby and my baby baby, and I'm always juggling their priorities"
• Doctors gave her the shot to pour into the next generation

[00:22:20] Faith and Gratitude: The Foundation of Everything

• Faith is very important to her and aligns with her values
• Has achievement as a value
• Leans into her faith as she does her work and lives her personal life
• Hopes to continue making an impact in lives of others, personally and professionally

[00:24:00] Giving Back: Grace and Growing Generosity

• Giving back in community is really important
• Supports Grace, a local charitable organization helping the underserved who need help
• As a business, able to support their endeavors and help those who need it most
• Giving back is ingrained in core values
• Wouldn't have a business if it weren't for relationship with Gary, or it wouldn't look the way it does today

[00:30:17] Mentorship Matters: Female Advisors Pouring In

• Started career in sales environment that was probably 10% female
• Was the youngest person on the sales desk in downtown Boston
• Now advocates for young women starting in finance: "Go find mentors. You're not too young, don't hesitate. This is a great career and you can get so much out of those relationships"
• "You never even know where all of them are gonna lead, but they make such an impact"

[00:32:05] Where to Find Morgan & The Intentional Legacy

• Website for book: intentionallegacybook.com
• Feedback: "This is something I wish I would've read 20, 30 years ago. I really want my children to read it"
• Personal website: lifebranchwealth.com
• Always glad to have a conversation with anyone

KEY QUOTES

"We get one shot at this life, so we might as well make it as intentional, as and impactful as possible." - Morgan Nichols

"I can't put a price tag on that... These doctors just helped give me the daughter, and that's gonna be a generational impact." - Morgan Nichols

"We have to find people that compliment our strengths and can also speak truth in our lives so we can become the sharpest versions of ourselves and sharpen one another." - Morgan Nichols

"If we keep showing up with goodness, we show up with gratitude and acknowledging our blessings, it puts us on the right foot to see opportunity and to really make a difference." - Morgan Nichols

"If I just do what I'm doing and I don't intentionally think about what I'm doing and why, you know, she's gonna be 15 and I'm not gonna get those years back." - Morgan Nichols

CONNECT WITH MORGAN NICHOLS

🌐 Website: https://www.lifebranchwealth.com

📚 Book: https://www.intentionallegacybook.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganenichols

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What if the most important relationship you'll ever have isn't with your mentor or business partner, but with yourself?

In this episode, Lin Yuan-Su, a mindset coach for high-achieving entrepreneurs, shares her journey from being a "miserably successful" registered dietitian to building a thriving coaching business. After six years of education and eight years in a soul-sucking career that looked perfect from the outside, Lin found herself crying in a parking lot, making what she calls a "spiritual decision": something must change, even though she had no plan.

Through a 30-minute video ad on social media, Lin discovered her mentor Mary Morrissey from Brave Thinking Institute, and everything shifted. That relationship, along with coach Kirsten Wells, changed her life so profoundly that she named her daughter Mary in honor of it. From helping a burned-out restaurant owner expand from one struggling location to five thriving restaurants to manifesting $50,000 in hours to save her own event, Lin's story proves that the right relationships reveal who you've always been meant to become.

Lin reveals why being kind to yourself is the first step to transformation, how her mentors kept her from drowning in fear, and why we're all perfect exactly as we are.

[00:05:01] The Journey: From China to Canada to Crying in a Parking Lot

• Born and raised in China, came to Canada at age 20
• Studied nutrition for six years (undergrad + master's degree) because she loved food and was curious about the human body
• Became a registered dietitian, worked in healthcare for 8 years
• From the very beginning, felt unfulfilled but was too afraid to change
• Everyone saw her as successful: secure job, good pay, pension, benefits
• But inside, she was "miserably successful," shiny on the outside, hollow and miserable inside
• The turning point: crying in an empty parking lot, devastated about the life she'd worked so hard to build

[00:08:20] The Spiritual Decision: Something Must Change

• Made a decision in that parking lot moment: "something got to change"
• Had no plan, no idea what the change would be
• Calls it a "spiritual decision," trusting that something must shift
• Things started showing up differently in her life after that decision
• Began building her entrepreneurial journey part-time while still working full-time
• Led to discovering her calling as a mindset coach

[00:09:08] What Lin Does: Helping Entrepreneurs Discover Their Truth

• Mindset coach for high-achieving, heart-centered, passion-driven entrepreneurs
• Helps people discover "what is the truth between their two ears"
• Supports clients to see they can do more, give more, make bigger impact
• Helps clients connect with others at a deeper, meaningful level
• Creates space for clients to say "I love my life"

[00:11:36] The Power of Self-Relationship: Being Kind to Yourself

• First relationship is with ourselves
• We would never say "what's wrong with me?" to our best friend, yet we say it to ourselves
• "We are perfect as this higher power made us"
• When you notice something you don't want, that's good news: it's the starting point
• That awareness is the beginning of next-level expansion, growth, abundance, freedom

[00:13:07] Most Impactful Result: Julia's Restaurant Revolution

• Client Julia, age 24, had double degree in nutrition and business
• Working 12-13 hours every single day, Monday to Sunday, no breaks
• Owned one restaurant that was losing money
• Did coaching call from Hawaii via Zoom
• Became a much better boss to her employees

[00:18:02] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Meeting Mary Morrissey

• Found her mentor Mary Morrissey through a 30-minute video ad on social media
• Doesn't remember what Mary said, but remembers the feeling
• "I found the person who can understand me"
• Felt Mary's love, gentleness, and belief even without ever talking to her
• Also met Kirsten Wells, another coach and mentor

[00:20:31] Beyond Business: Manifesting Her Daughter Mary

• Through relationship with Mary and Kirsten, built on love, trust, and unconditional belief
• Lin manifested a child along this journey
• Named her daughter Mary Lee to honor the relationship with Mary Morrissey
• Calls her daughter "our girl" when talking to Mary

[00:24:00] Crisis Moment: The $50,000 Hotel Bill

• Two years ago, planned a three-day event as brand-new entrepreneur
• Wanted to model what she'd watched her mentor Mary do
• Reached out to hotel, signed contract, but didn't fully check payment due dates
• Event happened successfully

[00:26:54] The Ripple Effect: What Happened at the Event

• One baby was manifested: client stood up, shared vision of having a child, got pregnant months later
• At least three people moved into their dream houses within a year
• People manifested love: one team member met a man at the event, clicked immediately, still together today
• Chain reaction of transformation that wouldn't have been possible without mentors' support

[00:29:08] Where to Find Lin & How She Shows Up

• Website: enlightenedsuccess.com (all contact information available)
• Active on all major social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
• Search her name (unique with hyphen)—usually first result
• Believes in giving—offers 15-minute calls to anyone who reaches out
• Her intention: "In this moment, what can I serve you? What can I do to make your day, your moment better?"

KEY QUOTES

"You noticed something you don't want? That's good news because guess what? From that moment then you can really start to discover what is great that I am about to start making. And that is the starting point of anybody's next level of expansion, growth, more abundance, more freedom, more money, more time freedom, more happiness, more fulfillment." - Lin Yuan-Su

"We are perfect as this higher power made us. We are perfect already. And the next step is to listen to your heart." - Lin Yuan-Su

"They don't believe my limiting beliefs. They believe in what I want, what I know is possible and they support me when I was shaking." - Lin Yuan-Su

CONNECT WITH LIN YUAN-SU

🌐 Website: https://enlightenedsuccess.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lin-yuan-su 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linyuansu.successcoach

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What if a traumatic childhood experience could become the catalyst for a career saving thousands of lives, not through arrests, but through education and early intervention?

In this episode, Chuck Marting, retired law enforcement officer with 19 years of distinguished service and founder of Colorado Mobile Drug Testing, shares his unexpected journey from almost being kidnapped as a teen in Southern California to becoming one of the nation's leading experts in workplace impairment detection. Through a pivotal moment when an officer took the extra step to check on him that same night, Chuck discovered his calling: if he could do for others what that officer did for him, his life would have meaning.

From earning recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving to becoming a certified Drug Recognition Expert to building a mobile drug testing business from his kitchen table 14 years ago, Chuck has transformed how employers protect their teams. His philosophy is revolutionary: shift from "zero tolerance" (reactive, after the fact) to "zero blind spots" (proactive, before tragedy strikes). With workplace impairment costing US businesses $81 billion annually, Chuck's mission has never been more critical.

Chuck reveals the restaurant encounter where a former client thanked him for saving his family, how one trained supervisor caught an employee vaping marijuana in plain sight, and why relationships with his father, his wife of 35 years, and mentors like Jack Canfield have shaped everything he does.

[00:04:30] The Origin Story: A Childhood Trauma That Planted a Seed

• As a teen in Southern California, Chuck was grabbed by someone attempting to kidnap him
• Broke free, ran to nearest house, called for help
• Police officer arrested the suspect quickly

[00:06:24] Finding His Gift: Becoming a Drug Recognition Expert

• Got into law enforcement and discovered natural gift for detecting impairment
• Performed so many DUI arrests that Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognized him
• Sent to Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) school, one of law enforcement's hardest certifications
• Equivalent of college semester compressed into two weeks

[00:08:20] The Kitchen Table Beginning: Starting Colorado Mobile Drug Testing

• 14 years ago, arrested someone who was panicking about missing pre-employment drug test
• Answer: "Nobody does that"
• Light bulb moment: started researching, found nobody in Colorado doing mobile drug testing
• Started business at kitchen table with his wife

[00:09:40] The Problem Chuck Solves: Teaching "Zero Blind Spots"

• Saw supervisors missing obvious signs of impairment due to lack of training
• Most employers treat drug testing as afterthought until crisis hits
• Workplace impairment costs: $81 billion/year in US, $4 trillion/year worldwide
• Created training programs that go beyond textbook knowledge

[00:12:20] Colorado's Marijuana Legalization: 21 Years Later

• Colorado and Washington legalized marijuana over 21 years ago
• Even after two decades, many Colorado employers still have no policies or training
• Chuck speaks nationally and trains companies on handling this challenge
• Also coaches supervisors on leadership skills learned from law enforcement
• Active listening, de-escalation, and other cop skills translate directly to business leadership

[00:16:11] Most Impactful Result: The Restaurant Encounter

• Two years ago, took team to Christmas dinner at restaurant in city where he was officer
• Hesitant to go (officers typically avoid areas they policed)
• Chuck's immediate concern: arrested? positive drug test? upset?
• The reveal: "Four weeks ago I lost my job because I had a positive drug test"

[00:26:00] Recent Impact: The Supervisor Who Caught the Vape

• Trained a "designated employer rep" (safety program manager) who became passionate about program
• Client called Chuck: "Something's off with this employee, I need confirmation"
• Supervisor thanked Chuck: "I don't know if I would've ever caught this before"
• This is Chuck's mission: protecting employers, teams, and community

[00:29:20] Why This Work Matters: The 3 AM Calls

• As officer, had to tell families at 2-3 AM their loved one was killed by impaired driver
• "Very difficult situation to have to be in"
• Employers face same situation when workplace accidents occur
• Would do this work even without pay; mission to prevent tragedies
• "I'm only one guy doing the best I can to get it out there"

[00:32:00] Chuck's Business Philosophy

• Runs 24/7 operation and is available anytime because problems don't wait
• "If I get a call at 3 AM, so be it. You might have to give me a couple minutes because it might sound like I need a drug test"
• Doesn't want anyone waiting or feeling like they're inconveniencing him
• Core message: Zero tolerance is reactionary and after the fact
• Zero blind spots is proactive, recognizing issues before tragedy strikes

KEY QUOTES

"What made the impact on me was later on that night, that officer came to my home to make sure that I was okay. He took that added time. That made that impression on me. And I remember thinking to myself, if I can do what he just did for somebody else, then I want to do that." - Chuck Marting

"It's hard to read the label when you're inside the bottle." - Chuck Marting

"I'm not gonna be able to take somebody in an hour or two hours of training and turn them into a drug recognition expert, but if they listen to some of the things that I teach them, they're gonna catch those things." - Chuck Marting

"Zero tolerance is reactionary, after the fact. Zero blind spots: recognizing this before something happens, is what we have to focus on." - Chuck Marting

CONNECT WITH CHUCK MARTING

🌐 Website: https://www.chuckmarting.com | https://www.masteringtheimpairmentcode.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-marting-aa849660 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuck.marting 🏢 Business Websites: https://www.coloradomobiledrugtesting.com | https://www.focusedcompliancegroup.com 📚 Book: "Mastering the Impairment Code" (Foreword by Jack Canfield) - Available on Amazon

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What if you could help someone completely transform their career in just 45 minutes, not by training them to be someone they're not, but by revealing who they've always been?

In this episode, Steve Woodruff, author of "Clarity Wins" and "The Point," shares his unexpected journey from Vanderbilt astronomy student dreaming of becoming an astronaut to becoming the "King of Clarity" who's spent 20 years helping professionals discover and communicate their true identity. Through a pivotal relationship with a manager-friend who made one simple observation ("Let Steve run with sales and Rob run with service because that's what you're good at"), Steve discovered that fitting people into their strengths, not training them to overcome weaknesses, is the ultimate key to success.

From consulting with pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer, Novartis, and GSK to leading 100 emerging leaders globally during the pandemic to transforming his own pastor's preaching, Steve has developed the Clarity Fuel Formula, a brain science-backed framework that helps anyone cut through noise and connect powerfully. His philosophy is simple but revolutionary: "You can't read the label of the jar you're in." We need someone on the outside to reveal who we really are.

Steve reveals how he helps people experience that jaw-dropping moment when someone finally sees them (and they see themselves), why the first 15 seconds of any interaction matter most, how "memory darts" beat elevator pitches every time, and why his biggest professional thrill is attaching the right words to someone's identity and watching their entire career trajectory transform.

[00:03:59] The Journey: From Aspiring Astronaut to King of Clarity

• Childhood dream: becoming an astronaut
• Started at Vanderbilt University studying astronomy
• Hit a wall with calculus and physics, realized he loved words more than numbers
• Shifted to psychology, fascinated by how the human mind and communication work
• Moved into business sales and marketing

[00:07:39] What Steve Does: Revealing Who People Really Are

• Works with corporations (pharma/biotech primarily) on communication training
• Developed the Clarity Fuel Formula: framework for clear communication in every format
• Real passion: entrepreneurs, solos, small businesses, and individuals
• Specializes in helping people discover their identity, purpose, and how to articulate it

[00:09:23] Most Impactful Result: The Infrastructure Builder

• Met Jason, a sales training manager at pharma company, for networking lunch
• Through conversation, Steve identified Jason's core strength: infrastructure building
• Gave Jason the exact words to describe his superpower
• Jason found perfect role at training organization in disarray

[00:12:00] Pandemic Pivot: Training 100 Leaders Globally via Zoom

• Companies forced to move training online during COVID
• Steve led personal branding workshop for 100 emerging leaders globally
• All done from his desk via Zoom, no travel for days required

[00:14:38] What Inspires Steve: The Jaw-Drop Moment

• Most people (including himself for years) are only half-aware of who they really are
• People are guessing, trying different things without true north
• Has unique ability to ask questions and see themes emerge quickly
• The magic moment: 45-60 minutes in, holds up "figurative mirror"

[00:17:04] The Relationship That Changed Everything

• During first 10-year career job, Steve and colleague split country for sales/service
• One person better at sales, other better at service, but both trying to do both
• This insight plus reading StrengthsFinder completely revolutionized Steve's view of work

[00:21:41] Recent Impact: Transforming His Pastor's Preaching

• Steve's work applies 100% to church settings, not just business
• Pastor came to dinner, Steve discussed "memory darts" concept
• Memory darts: short, vivid ideas using analogies, illustrations, or stories instead of elevator pitches
• Pastor wanted to improve preaching and asked Steve for help

[00:23:58] Where to Find Steve & His Resources

• Company: Clarity Fuel (clarityfuel.com redirects to stevewoodruff.com)
• Most active on LinkedIn with newsletter and regular posts about clarity
• Two books: "Clarity Wins" (branding, niches, pigeonholes) and "The Point" (universal framework for clear communication)
• The challenge: "The Point" is for 8 billion people, anyone, any role, any place, anytime

[00:26:40] The First 15 Seconds: Why They Matter Most

• Success boils down to the first 15 seconds of any interaction
• Must earn attention with something interesting, relevant, and compelling
• Get rid of the elevator pitch (telling and selling)
• Learn to answer "What do you do?" in 15 seconds that makes people say "Huh? Tell me more"
• Biggest problem: TMI (Too Much Information)

KEY QUOTES

"You can't read the label of the jar you're in. We are not able to be objective about ourselves. We need someone on the outside who can look at us and say, this is really who you are." - Steve Woodruff

"I'm not here to train people to become what they're not. I'm here to reveal to them who they are. When you try to train people to be what they're not, you're setting yourself and them up for a world of hurt." - Steve Woodruff

"We have stewardship over our lives. We have one life. If we're wasting it, even with good intentions doing the wrong thing, that's a terrible shame." - Steve Woodruff

"People don't need information. They need to know why they should care." - Steve Woodruff

"Nobody wants to hear your monologue. They want to hear something that makes them say, 'What in the world are you talking about? Tell me about it.' And we're off and running." - Steve Woodruff

CONNECT WITH STEVE WOODRUFF

🌐 Website: https://www.clarityfuel.com | https://stevewoodruff.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swoodruff

📚 Books: "Clarity Wins" and "The Point" (available on Amazon)

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What if the emptiness you feel despite your success isn't a sign you're broken, but a signal you're ready for something deeper?

In this episode, Andrew Anderson, a transformational coach for high-achieving business leaders, shares his remarkable journey from elementary school playground helper to teaching career to becoming the guide that successful entrepreneurs call when they have "problems money can't solve." Through two pivotal relationships, Xavier, a Belgian mentor he met at 19 who still coaches him 21 years later, and Kevin Hall (former VP of Franklin Covey), who saw potential in him during his darkest season.

Andrew discovered how to help others move from survival to thriving, from playing defense to playing offense with their lives. From reconnecting with Xavier during his friend's divorce and flipping their mentor-mentee dynamic, to standing in the Virgin River at Zion National Park receiving divine inspiration to write a book that would later save a man's life, Andrew reveals how the right relationships at the right time don't just change your business trajectory but reshape your entire identity and calling. His approach cuts through years of traditional therapy in hours, helping clients rewire neural pathways and reconnect with who they truly are beneath the pain.

Andrew reflects on honoring the versions of ourselves that went through hard things, why most people are playing not to lose instead of playing to win, and how a single conversation can absolutely change the trajectory of a career, relationship, or life.

[00:04:42] What Andrew Does: Solving Problems Money Can't Solve

• Shows up in three or four important roles each day
• First as a son of God
• Husband supporting wife who homeschools and does foot zoning
• Father to seven children

[00:07:25] The Origin Story: Fourth Grade Playground

• Met Lap, a Vietnamese student who spoke zero English
• Became his playground buddy through the universal language of play
• Lap helped Andrew with math; Andrew helped him with sports
• First recognition of unique ability to see needs and show up for individuals

[00:10:50] The Unique Ability Discovery

• References Dan Sullivan's Strategic Coach concept
• Like Marcus Colius told Kevin: "This is the Holy Spirit working through you"
• Unique abilities reveal themselves through stewardship, not searching

[00:16:06] The Transition: From Teaching to Coaching

• Six years as a classroom teacher
• Went through separation and divorce that felt like life was over
• Lost career, marriage, and family simultaneously
• Left teaching, sold real estate for one year, then started coaching agents

[00:20:00] Client Success Story: "Jared"

• Nearly million-dollar business but struggling with drug addiction, porn addiction
• Couldn't have children for several years, had hard time keeping money
• Worked at deep unconscious level to find root causes of self-sabotage
• Process took hours, not years - created new neural pathways

[00:24:33] Playing Offense vs. Defense

• Andrew's 76-year-old dad's wisdom: "Play to win, don't play not to lose"
• Most people in life are playing defense, trying to get out of pain
• First day and a half with clients: playing defense but with love, not resistance

[00:27:37] Xavier: The 21-Year Friendship

• Met in Belgium when Andrew was 19, Xavier was 28-29
• Still FaceTimes to this day after 21 years
• Has visited Andrew's home three times, supports his retreats
• Andrew's best friend and coach for deepest heart and soul questions

[00:29:26] Kevin Hall: The Professional Catalyst

• Met summer 2015 during Andrew's transition period
• Former VP of Sales at Franklin Covey, worked with Stephen Covey
• Author of "Aspire" teaching 10 powerful words
• Saw something in 29-year-old Andrew during training event
• Took Andrew under his wing in group coaching

[00:32:04] The Book That Saved a Life

• Standing in Virgin River at Zion National Park at Kevin Hall's event
• God said: "You're gonna write a book"
• Title: "Strength of the Oak, Strength of the Willow"
• Two things keeping him from suicide: the Bible and Andrew's book

KEY QUOTES

"Single conversation is guaranteed to change the trajectory of a career, a relationship, or a life. Any single conversation absolutely can." - Andrew Anderson (quoting Susan Scott)

"You need to honor and respect that version of you because you would not be doing what you're doing and helping who you're helping or anything without having gone through that experience." - Xavier (to Andrew)

"You gotta play to win. Don't play not to lose." - Andrew's 76-year-old dad

"It's really hard to move forward while you're looking back." - Andrew Anderson

"If you want to find yourself, you're gonna have to lose yourself. And if you're looking for happiness, the best way to find it is to give and do it unconditionally." - Andrew Anderson (referencing Jesus)

CONNECT WITH ANDREW ANDERSON

📱 Cell: 208-494-4497

🌐 Website: https://www.andrewlanderson.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlanderson85

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What if the work you do every day could help 15-25 families consider adoption with just a $1,500 Christmas card budget?

In this episode, Graeme Watt, co-founder and leader of Anthem Creative, shares his remarkable journey from outdoor adventure guide to nonprofit founder to running a thriving creative agency that serves organizations pursuing human flourishing. Through pivotal relationships with two mentors - Tom Ko, his "fundraising Yoda," and Michael Gibney, his business mentor of 15 years - Graeme discovered how to build businesses that amplify good in the world. From Googling "how to start a nonprofit" at age 26 to celebrating 10 years running a full-service agency with his brother, Graeme reveals how the right relationships at the right time, combined with unwavering optimism and clear vision, can transform not just your business trajectory but your entire life's work.

His agency operates with a simple filter: "Will this amplify human flourishing?" This principle guides everything from client selection to team building, creating a business that treats every project as an opportunity to make the world better.

Graeme reflects on how mentorship shaped his leadership, why passion is the single greatest competitive advantage in hiring, and how one adoption agency campaign proved that creative work can genuinely change lives - one family at a time.

[00:04:00] What Graeme Does: Amplifying Good Through Creative Services

• Co-founder of Anthem Creative with his brother Mark
• Mission: Partner with organizations pursuing human flourishing to amplify their impact online
• Portfolio company structure with main operating company as creative agency
• Core filter for all decisions: "Will this amplify human flourishing?"
• Specializes in branding, custom web experiences, and film/documentary work

[00:06:00] The Journey: From Outdoor Guide to Entrepreneur

• Studied ecotourism and outdoor leadership (not business)
• Worked as river guide and rock climbing guide early in career
• Married and moved to Edmonton, Alberta where outdoor industry didn't exist
• Started working with youth and students, creating experiments for young people
• At 26, Googled "how to start a nonprofit organization" and launched one from his living room

[00:10:00] The Haiti Moment: Brothers Unite

• Graeme worked at World Vision Canada (large global NGO)
• Submitted innovation grant proposals that kept getting funded
• Hired his brother's agency for these innovation projects
• Graeme quit his nonprofit job and joined his brother full-time
• Just celebrated 10 years in business together

[00:11:25] Most Impactful Result: The Adoption Agency Campaign

• Early in agency life, partnered with local adoption agency
• Handled complete rebrand: new name, website, video content, and collateral
• Agency wanted to run year-end digital ad campaign but had no budget
• Got creative: repurposed $1,500 Christmas card budget for digital ads
• Launched December 20th using brand hero video they'd already created

[00:17:00] How They Met: Through a Designer's Introduction

• Met when Graeme was 26, starting nonprofit from scratch
• Introduced by Ian, a freelance designer working with Graeme
• Graeme was building a board and asked if anyone knew potential board members
• Tom had 30 years in nonprofit space, running successful consulting firm
• Graeme thought: "He's not gonna want anything to do with a guy like me"

[00:18:07] Tom's Investment: Chairing the Board

• Tom was captivated by Graeme's passion and vision
• Immediately offered: "I would love to chair your board if you would have me"
• Became board chair when organization "wasn't even really an organization"
• Taught Graeme everything about fundraising, board leadership, governance, and agency agreements

[00:24:00] How They Met: Through an Intern's Introduction

• Michael's daughter was Graeme's intern at World Vision Canada
• Graeme was running a coffee company on the side (social enterprise sourcing from Africa)
• Michael also involved in coffee and sourcing products from developing world

[00:25:20] The Mentorship Terms: 30 Minutes of $900/Hour Time

• Graeme was looking for business-side mentor (had Tom for nonprofit side)
• Asked Michael directly: "Would you consider mentoring me?"
• Michael's conditions: "My time is really valuable—I charge $900/hour"
• Michael's offer: "I'll give you 30 minutes whenever you need it, but:"
• 15 years later, relationship still going strong

[00:27:37] Michael's Lasting Impact: Believing Before Graeme Did

• Every major business decision has had Michael's voice in it
• In 15 years, has never steered Graeme wrong
• Saw things in Graeme that he didn't believe were there
• Believed in Graeme when he didn't believe in himself

[00:29:00] Real-Time Impact: The 3D Printing Product Launch

• Operating partner designed proprietary product for global market
• 3D printed product with penny manufacturing costs and high margins
• Required expertise in international patent law and licensing agreements
• Called Michael 40 minutes before podcast recording

[00:33:40] Philosophy: The Power of Pursuing Human Flourishing

• Commitment to human flourishing attracts incredible relationships and opportunities
• Right people show up at right times with needed expertise
• Until recently, never posted job openings—always went to network

KEY QUOTES

"The ability to clearly communicate a future vision with conviction and passion—there are a few skills that are more valuable than that." - Graeme Watt

"The glass is always half full with me. It's always optimistic. We're always gonna figure it out." - Graeme Watt

"If you can constantly see the forest, then you don't get bogged down by the trees." - Graeme Watt

"Whoever tells the best story wins." - Graeme Watt

"If you give 51% and you give more than you expect in return, then that's a winning formula." - Graeme Watt (referencing Gary Vaynerchuk)

CONNECT WITH GRAEME WATT

🌐 Website: https://www.anthemcreative.ca

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wattgraeme

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What if sending one Instagram DM could completely change the trajectory of your life and business?

In this episode, Braxton Kilgo, Founder & CEO of I Believe In You (IBIY), shares his incredible journey from a small town in Texas with just 200 people to building a global movement that's touched lives in over 20 countries and 100+ cities. After a career-ending football injury forced him to reimagine his future, Braxton discovered his true calling when a middle school principal's phone call led him to create stickers that said "I believe in you" - sparking a ripple effect of kindness he couldn't ignore. From frantically rewriting a speech 24 hours before delivery to receiving stories about lives saved, Braxton reveals how one bold DM to a stranger in Scottsdale introduced him to his business partners Joey and Dylan, who brought him into a world of entrepreneurs that transformed everything.

Through the power of "big belief leading to big action," Braxton built IBIY - a tech-enabled bracelet movement where small acts of kindness create measurable waves of impact, with partnerships including Tony Robbins' Mastermind.com and Recovery Unplugged that happened before they even officially launched their B2B offering.

Braxton shares why "show up to serve, not sell" will 10x everything you're doing, how being kind and asking "how can I help you?" creates an army of people ready to connect you with anything you need, and why the person giving the bracelet might experience something even more powerful than the person receiving it.

[00:05:19] What Braxton Does: Building a Kindness Movement with Technology

• Founded I Believe In You (IBIY) - a movement centered on one core belief: small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact
• Flagship product: Bracelets with "I believe in you" message that you wear with the intention to give away
• Each bracelet contains an NFC chip synced with mobile app - tap your phone to see personalized video/photo messages and track the bracelet's journey
• Track every city, country, and person impacted - watch your ripple effect spread around the world even after you give it away
• Mission: Create an army of "wave makers" to make impact as individuals and businesses

[00:07:40] The Origin Story: From Football Dreams to Purpose

• Grew up in May, Texas - a town of 200 people where his whole family lived on one farm
• Thought his only path out was playing in the NFL
• Got to college on a football scholarship but struggled with injuries, limping off the field every day after practice
• Strength coach Coach Ramey pulled him aside: "I think you were made for something bigger than this, and I think you also want to be able to run around in the yard with your kids one day"
• Eventually dropped out, went back to the farm and oil field, returned to school and started a clothing company called Vision about defining your version of success

[00:10:41] The Pivotal Moment: A Principal's Phone Call That Changed Everything

• Got invited to speak at a middle school (about 10 schools in, wasn't very good yet)
• Principal called 24 hours before: "I wanted to remind you what some of the kids are going through at home and at school so you really know who you're talking to"
• Spent 10 minutes breaking Braxton's heart with stories
• Braxton told his brother: "I wrote the wrong speech. I'm not qualified"

[00:12:37] The Unexpected Impact: When Kindness Goes Viral

• Principal called days later: Kids were being nicer to each other in hallways and to staff
• Parents called thanking them for the speaker because of conversations kids started at home
• Local businesses called asking "what are these ugly ass stickers these kids are sticking on everything?"
• At 19 years old, shipped bracelets to 16 different countries, appeared on TV channels and podcasts

[00:15:01] The Long Journey: From 19 to 30 and Back Again

• Realized he didn't know any entrepreneurs - "the only person I knew that was maybe a business person was the guy who had more cows next door"
• Put IBIY on pause to learn how to be a business person and build the technology
• Built another company (Hours Global - business consulting) that he used to fund IBIY
• Worked with 1,000+ clients in sales, branding, and high-level partnerships over the decade
• Now ready to launch IBIY to the world at age 30 (turns 30 next week)

[00:18:29] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Introduction

• Who Changed Everything: Joey and Dylan (his business partners)

[00:19:25] Pivotal People: Joey and Dylan - The Instagram DM That Changed Everything

• Was planning to move to Fort Lauderdale with his best friend/brother
• Two friends convinced them to move to Scottsdale instead - "at least come for a little while"
• On the drive to Scottsdale in a U-Haul, looked for people doing cool stuff on Instagram
• Never had true friends who were also entrepreneurs before meeting Joey and Dylan
• They introduced him to Devon who runs Arizona Entrepreneurs, which is where he met Nico

[00:21:18] The Scottsdale Effect: From 10 Months to 5 Years

• Original plan: Stay in Scottsdale for 10-12 months then leave
• Reality: Stayed for 5 years and was the last one there after all his friends moved
• Joey and Dylan are now his business partners in IBIY
• They're the reason he brought IBIY back when he did

[00:23:20] The Arizona Entrepreneurs Connection: Opening Doors Everywhere

• Joey and Dylan introduced him to the Arizona Entrepreneurs community
• Became the official marketing partner of the entire Arizona Entrepreneur group
• His first investor for IBIY came from one of those stages
• Got to sit on stages with "some of the top entrepreneurs in the world" even though they'd done "astronomically more" than him"

[00:31:42] The Three Pillars of IBIY

1. Direct-to-Consumer: Bracelets sold online to anyone in the world; each collection gives back to a charity
2. Culture Shift Tour: Speaking at hundreds of schools around the country every year (led by partner Jared), recreating the original sticker moment with real bracelets
3. B2B Partnerships: Custom co-branded bracelets for nonprofits, churches, retreats, conferences, and businesses with custom messaging and packaging

[00:32:40] The Partnership Program: Impact You Can Track

• Organizations get completely co-branded bracelets and packaging
• Can leave a custom message on the front of all bracelets (video from founder/leader appears first time it's tapped)
• Working with major companies BEFORE officially launching: Recovery Unplugged, Mastermind.com (Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi), Dick's Sporting Goods meeting scheduled, ClickFunnels reached out
• All from texting friends and reaching out through personal relationships - no marketing yet

[00:38:59] Braxton's Advice: Big Belief, Big Action, Big Results

• "You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly"
• "Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results"
• "Little belief leads to little action, which then basically just has you re-solidify in your mind that you couldn't do it"
• "If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic"

[00:41:00] The Giver's Gift

• "It's really awesome for the people that receive the bracelet, but I think it might still be more powerful to the person that gives it away"

KEY QUOTES

"Small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact." - Braxton Kilgo

"You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly. Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results." - Braxton Kilgo

"If you show up to serve, not sell, it will 10x everything that you're doing." - Braxton Kilgo

"If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic." - Braxton Kilgo

CONNECT WITH BRAXTON KILGO

🌐 Website: https://www.ibelieveinyou.io

🌐 Personal Website: https://www.braxtonkilgo.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braxton-kilgo-82060ba2

📸 Instagram: @ibelieveinyou.io (for IBIY) and Braxton Kilgo (personal - behind the scenes)

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What if a single introduction from a stranger you never saw again could change your entire life?

In this episode, Theresa Bassett, CEO of The Diamond Group and sales and marketing expert with over $550M in transactions, shares the remarkable story of how a mystery connector named Isabelle introduced her to Kelly Bassett at a running training group and then vanished forever. That one serendipitous moment transformed not only Theresa's personal life but her entire professional trajectory, leading her from Fortune 500 corporate sales to building a thriving 28-year-old family business that now employs a team of 20 and serves small businesses across the nation.

Theresa reveals how she "went in kicking and screaming" to entrepreneurship, initially unable to envision herself as a CEO, but discovered her true calling: equipping and empowering small business owners to triple their revenue, build legacy wealth, and create ripple effects that impact entire families and communities. From tripling a home builder's revenue in 18 months to helping a solo orthodontist open five offices and build generational wealth, Theresa's story is a masterclass in the power of partnership, resilience, and saying "yes" even when you can't see the full picture.

[00:05:29] What Theresa Does: Serving Small Business America CEO of The Diamond Group: A sales and marketing growth revenue agency for small businesses

Why Small Business?

• Small businesses provide 86% of jobs in America
• Theresa counts it as one of her greatest privileges to employ a team of 20 people
• Every time a team member buys a car, house, or takes a vacation, it feels like a personal victory

[00:07:43] The Backstory: From Corporate to Coaching to CEO * Trained as a sales professional working for major home builders * Merchandised new home neighborhoods for the biggest builders in the world

• Coached business owners on sales and marketing one-on-one
• Believed in the power of personalized consulting to elevate brands

[00:08:55] The Life-Changing Introduction * Both showed up at a running training group * Neither could run "a lick"—couldn't even run to the corner * A woman named Isabelle was at the front gate * Isabelle: "Oh, you're new. There's this other new guy here too. His name's Kelly. I should have you meet."

[00:11:40] The Partnership Begins: Joining The Diamond Group * Started an agency in San Francisco, California * Left the radio industry as a producer to produce radio ads independently * Known as "Crash Bassett" in the radio world (crashed his truck into a brick wall on the way to work) * When radio consolidated, he pivoted to more video production

[00:13:13] Going "In Kicking and Screaming" * A marketing agency had never been on her radar * "Okay God, what are you up to? Seriously, whatcha up to?" * Admits: "I had some selfish motives"

[00:16:34] Kelly's Remarkable Pivot * Not easy to welcome a new partner into your business * Not easy to move yourself from chief/presidency to welcome a CEO alongside you * Kelly allowed Theresa's vision to come up alongside his * Eventually, her vision became the vision they were calibrating to

[00:17:47] Results That Create Ripple Effects * Rebranded a couple times along the journey * Name reflects the resiliency and strength they build in strong businesses * Goal: Build strong, sustainable sales and marketing systems so businesses don't run owners into the ground

[00:18:58] Marketing Is About More Than New Customers The Recruiting Connection: "People think of marketing as new clients, customers, and patients, but marketing is also about new team members. Recruiting is a marketing and sales activity. If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand."

[00:21:10] The Power Team Approach * Theresa couldn't do this work alone * When a client comes in, they get a "power team": essentially a sales and marketing department down the hall * Experts rally around the business, create a strategic plan, and execute * It's a co-creative collaborative process

[00:22:58] Synergy: 1 + 1 = 3 (or 500!) * One plus one equals three * The ripple effect of exponential partnering impact * Her relationship with Kelly is a prime example: "That was a one plus one equals 500 synergistic relationship"

[00:24:21] Impact on Employees: Opening Doors * Diamond Group hires and recruits a lot of young professionals * Marketing is an industry of youth and talent (especially with AI changing everything) * Watching employees soar is "a little bit like watching your kids move up and out of the nest"

[00:28:10] Racehorses Run Faster Together * Put the blinders on so all they can see is forward * But they're getting momentum from running right alongside others * "I love running with other racehorses" * Iron sharpens iron * We're all here to help each other— none of us can do it alone

KEY QUOTES "My mission on the planet is to equip and encourage and embolden leaders and their teams." - Theresa Bassett

"Sometimes it's just your door that you open to them is the door that unlocks another door. None of that would've been possible if it weren't for Kelly. Him opening his door to me allowed me to open my door to so many others." - Theresa Bassett

"If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand." - Theresa Bassett

"Racehorses are likely to run at least 10% faster when they're next to other racehorses." - Theresa Bassett

CONNECT WITH THERESA BASSETT 🌐 Website: https://www.diamond-group.co💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresalbassett

Want to grow your business? Visit Diamond-Group.co to request a Clarity Call with a growth specialist. They'll help you assess the state of the union in your business and identify your next best steps forward.

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What if one conversation at 16 could shape the next 40 years of your life?

In this episode, Dr. John A. Gallucci Jr., President & CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, shares his remarkable journey from a high school wrestler with injuries to building one of the Northeast's largest physical therapy empires with 170 locations serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Through the pivotal mentorship of Rich Giardano (a relationship that began with a literal smack to the back of the head and the question "What do you want to STUDY?"), John discovered his calling in sports medicine and learned invaluable lessons about business, integrity, and the importance of balance. From nearly losing everything in the first six months to serving over 700 providers and 2,000 employees, John reveals how one mentor's wisdom about networking, continuous learning, and kindness became the foundation for an organization that treats everyone "like a VIP professional athlete."

John reflects on how Rich's mentorship shaped not just his clinical skills, but his approach to building culture, fostering the next generation of leaders, and why he believes "one kind brings two." This principle guides JAG Physical Therapy's mission to help people "get back to the life you love."

[00:04:35] What John Does: Dual-Licensed Healthcare Leader * Dual licensed as both a certified athletic trainer (ATC) and physical therapist (PT, DPT) * Master's degree in sports science and master's in physical therapy, plus doctorate in physical therapy * President, CEO, and Founder of JAG Physical Therapy (John Anthony Gallucci = JAG)

[00:08:11] Most Rewarding Case: From "Never Walk Again" to Dancing * Woman hit by a taxi cab in New York City * Physicians told her she would never walk again without an assisted device * John calls this "probably one of the most proudest moments in my professional career"

[00:11:05] Growth Strategy: Patients as Best Marketers * 80% of growth in just the last two years came from former patients opening doors * Patients have spoken to insurance groups, doctors, and healthcare systems to bring JAG into their communities * Vision: "My goal is the people that need us have access to us"

[00:12:37] Teaching the Next Generation: Network = Net Worth * "Your personal network helps you grow your professional network" * As professional network grows, it creates more opportunities personally AND professionally * Importance of being ingrained in the community while building personal and professional networks

[00:13:53] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Mentor Who Changed Everything: Rich Giardano

[00:14:00] Pivotal Person: Rich Giardano - The 40-Year Mentor * Has been John's mentor since age 16 (John is now 58) * Known Rich his whole life, but formal mentorship began in high school * Rich is a physical therapist in sports medicine who worked for the New York Rangers and owned his own practice

[00:17:12] The Impact of Mentorship: Building JAG on Rich's Principles * Within six months of opening JAG Physical Therapy, they were almost out of business * Rich sat down with John and reminded him: "You've got this network of people from being in different worlds of pro sports and collegiate sports. You've gotta be able to use that network to foster growth." * Within 18 months, they made their first profit (John's wife Dawn was grateful they didn't lose their home!)

[00:19:52] Personal Life: 40 Years Together Family Foundation:

• Married to Dawn for 35 years this December (together for 40 years total)
• Known each other since age 9, dating since age 18
• Two children: Stephanie and Charles

[00:22:41] Advice: Enjoy the Ride John's Best Advice: "No matter what you're building, enjoy the ride. Sometimes you get caught up in it. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win."

Taking moments to sit back and say "wow" about the journey: from 1,800 square feet to 170 locations, from one clinician to 700+ providers.

[00:23:20] The Congressional Moment: Realizing the Impact

Speaking to Congress:

• Invited to Washington DC to speak about provision of physical therapy care
• Topic: Importance of slips and falls prevention for seniors
• Congressional leader's perspective: "John, you've made an impact in one of the biggest markets in the world, not even in the United States"

KEY QUOTES "The day you stop learning is the day you should no longer be working." - Rich Giardano (John's mentor)

"Your personal network helps you grow your professional network. And as your professional network grows, it just gives you more opportunities personally and professionally." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr.

"Enjoy the ride. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr.

"The best competitors are those that are also making the competition better." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr.

CONNECT WITH DR. JOHN GALLUCCI JR. 🌐 Website: https://www.jagpt.com

📧 Email: info@jagpt.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-a-gallucci-jr-ms-atc-pt-dpt-38b194a (25,000+ connections; reach out for potential synergies, opportunities, jobs, or career direction)

📸 Instagram: @dr.jag.pt (business tips, health insights, networking advice, movement science, cardiac health, branding, and communication skills)

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What if the worst chapters of your life could become the foundation for your greatest impact?

In this episode, Michael Dash, entrepreneur, author, and self-described "super connector," shares his remarkable journey from 20 years of addiction and a six-year legal battle to becoming a force for connecting entrepreneurs, building meaningful communities, and helping the formerly incarcerated rebuild their lives. Through two pivotal relationships (his entrepreneurial father and spiritual mentor Soleil Rad), Michael discovered how early business training and a transformed prayer practice could unlock his gift for creating life-changing connections. His mission? Bringing like-minded entrepreneurs together to create exponential impact while building the Impact Accelerator alongside Vince Covino and Satya.

Michael reflects on how these mentors shaped his path at critical moments and why he believes authentic relationships and community (not transactional connections) are the keys to transforming both business and life.

[00:04:05] What Michael Does: The Super Connector * Describes himself as a "super connector" who finds joy in introducing people from his network * Runs Live Life Activated retreats focused on aligning entrepreneurs' physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual practices with their vision * Has run six retreats over five years, resulting in three businesses, multiple lasting friendships, and relationships formed among participants * Currently working with Vince Covino and Satya building the Impact Accelerator: matching impact-driven entrepreneurs with heart-centered investors

[00:11:26] Background: From Recruiting to Retreats * Spent 20 years in recruiting and staffing, running his own business for 13 years * Natural training ground for being a super connector: "basically what you're doing is matchmaking" * Lived in Tulum, Mexico for 4.5 years before recently relocating to Austin, Texas * Now focused on the Impact Accelerator: training entrepreneurs to receive funding and matching them with investors who want to make an impact beyond just ROI

[00:06:53] Connection Success Story: Winner's Circle Heath & Shelly Winter's Partnership:

• Heath: Tennessee-based entrepreneur, expert at writing and winning grants
• Shelly Winter: Served five years in prison for addiction, became #1 salesperson at Microsoft after they initially rescinded her offer due to her record
• Mission: Helping current inmates train while incarcerated and connecting them with companies willing to hire formerly incarcerated individuals
• Michael's insight: "Imagine if you were judged your entire life by the worst thing you ever did"
• Now part of the Impact Accelerator community

[00:12:01] The Impact Accelerator Vision * Bringing entrepreneurs looking for funding together with impact-driven investors * Training entrepreneurs first: MVPs, what to ask for, technical requirements for funding * Matching with "heart-centered investors": those who want ROI but also want to make the world better * Philosophy: "Take a 10-year plan and make it a three-year plan" through strategic partnerships

[00:15:10] The Million Dollar Question: A Key Distinction Michael's Perspective on "Life-Changing" Introductions:

• Challenges the premise: "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you"
• "Have I been introduced to people who have shifted my perspective, who have laid out another path that I could travel? Absolutely."
• Key insight: An experience is only life-changing if you take action afterward
• "It's really all about what each and every one of us actually does with that experience that can make it life-altering"

[00:16:34] Pivotal Person #1: His Father The Entrepreneurial Foundation:

• Father was an entrepreneur who trained Michael from age 8
• Worked in father's retail store and import/export business (collectibles: Swarovski, Baccarat, Waterford, Royal Doulton)
• Learned about sales, relationships, and "schmoozing" as a child
• Michael's reflection: "At the end of the day, they did the best with what they had"
• Their connection was through entrepreneurship and sales

[00:19:08] Pivotal Person #2: Soleil Rad The Spiritual Transformation:

• Met in Tulum, Mexico while Soleil was running men's groups
• Men's work focused on expressing challenges, confronting shadows, sharing darkest secrets, and celebrating wins
• Reframed prayer as a partnership with God, not begging
• "Looking at God as a business partner": giving gratitude, asking for what you want, then showing God you're taking action

[00:20:39] The Prayer Practice That Changed Everything Michael's New Approach:

• Training to be grateful throughout the day: for food, home, even rejections and setbacks
• "Be grateful the person just turned down the business deal. Be grateful I just got cut off. Be grateful the police pulled me over."
• Attitude of gratitude that "retrieves" the nervous system
• Philosophy: Training your vessel to receive the light from God

[00:24:23] Kevin's Perspective: The Holy Spirit Connection Being a Vessel:

• Kevin shares story of Marcus Polls telling him: "This work you do is the Holy Spirit working through you"
• Realization that super connecting is about allowing yourself to be a vessel
• "Every conversation I have, I'm just here to be me and be the best steward I can"
• Partnership with God/Holy Spirit/Universe changes perspective on connecting

[00:28:21] The Philosophy of Divine Connections Michael's Belief:

• "The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now."
• Flow and keep building without attachment to knowing why
• Accomplishing more together than any individual can alone

[00:30:41] Michael's Book: Chasing the High * Chronicles his 20-year addiction journey and six-year legal battle * Shares entrepreneurship journey and how he turned his life around * Available on Amazon and Audible (Michael narrates the audiobook himself) * Fair warning: "If you can handle a Jersey accent for four hours, get it on Audible"

[00:31:37] Advice for the Shy: Step Into the Magic For Those Who Hesitate:

• Fear is what holds back the magic of connection
• If you're intimidated by someone, that's even MORE reason to introduce yourself
• Our minds are powerful: we can convince ourselves of anything (good, bad, or ugly)
• Honor your intuition: If it tells you to speak to someone, go speak to them

Opening Questions That Work:

• Instead of "What do you do?" or "Where are you from?"
• Try: "What brings you joy in life?"
• Lead with inquisitive questions, not what you do
• If you struggle with questions, use ChatGPT for help

[00:33:15] The Power of Questions Kevin's Story:

• At San Diego event, asked someone a question and spent the entire 15-minute break listening
• Person apologized for not learning anything about Kevin
• They became very good friends
• That same trip led to starting the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast

KEY QUOTES "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you." - Michael Dash

"Looking at God as a business partner." - Michael Dash

"The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now." - Michael Dash

"Step through that fear because that fear is what holds back the magic." - Michael Dash

CONNECT WITH MICHAEL DASH 🌐 Website: https://www.michaelgdash.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgdash

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.dash1

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdash1

📖 Book: "Chasing the High" available on Amazon and Audible

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What if the key to scaling to $250 million wasn't working harder, but working less?

In this episode, George Rivera, founder of multiple 7- and 8-figure businesses and creator of the Buy Back Time Formula™, shares his 30-year entrepreneurial journey from a high school supplement business to a $250 million empire. Through the devastating loss of his father to cancer and the life-changing deathbed wisdom "don't miss Leo's games, I missed too many of yours," George discovered that the path to freedom wasn't grinding 100-hour weeks but systematically buying back his time. His mission? Helping entrepreneurs escape the "job with overhead" trap so they can scale their businesses while being present for the moments that matter most with their families.

George reflects on how his father's final words arrived at exactly the right moment to transform his entire approach to business, and why buying back your time isn't just about making more money but about reclaiming your life before it's too late.

[00:04:19] The 30-Year Journey Begins * Started first business in 1995 at age 17-18 while still in high school * Fell for Don Lapre's late-night infomercial (tiny apartment, classified ads, rags to riches) * Bought the course, took action, made zero dollars, but the entrepreneur seed was planted * Parents thought it was a scam, but George kept pursuing home-based business opportunities

[00:05:22] The First Real Business: Supplements & The Internet * Summer 1995: Started supplement business after seeing space ads in small business magazines * Connected two trends: GNC's explosive growth + the internet's rising adoption * First online business launched, didn't go well initially * 2-3 years into college: Making as much as doctors while studying pre-med

[00:06:46] The Weight Loss Empire & Early Lessons * Dominated the keyword "weight loss" on GoTo.com for just 50 cents per click * Built and eventually ran the first business into the ground, couldn't keep up with orders * Lesson #1: Take your time, build infrastructure so you can scale appropriately * Built Google AdSense business to seven figures by 2005-2006

[00:08:31] The Digital Marketing Agency * Started agency helping clients with BSLs and one-click upsells in their infancy * He was the bottleneck, quality controlling everything, no proper org chart * Built a job with overhead, not a business

[00:10:44] The $250 Million Supplement Company * 10 years ago: Started supplement company with $5,000 seed money * But George was working 100+ hours per week, burning midnight oil constantly * Would pass out at his desk or stumble into bed, wake up 3-4 hours later and repeat * "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years" * Money was great, but life was not enjoyable

[00:14:21] The Buy Back Time Formula Birth * Around 2018-2019: Applied systematic approach to buy back his time * Removed himself as the bottleneck * Implemented proper SOPs, documentation, training, and later AI * Income went UP because he was no longer the bottleneck * Bought back dozens of hours per week

[00:16:41] Living the Freedom Lifestyle * Friends noticed: "You're in Germany driving the Nürburgring, business still running, how?" * 6-7 different people asked him to teach this * Held workshop at his home to test if the marketplace wanted it * Amazing response—decided to package it officially as Buy Back Time Formula

[00:18:05] The Father-Son Story That Changed Everything The pivotal relationship that transformed George's entire approach

• 2015: George's father diagnosed with cancer in February
• Six months later, he was gone. "That's just how fast cancer can take you"
• Dad broke the news when George had just adopted his newborn son Leo
• George spent every day with his dad, driving 1.5 hours each way

[00:20:18] The Deathbed Wisdom The million-dollar moment that changed everything

• Father's last words: "Don't miss Leo's games. I missed too many of yours."
• Hit George "like a ton of bricks"
• Brought closure—his dad acknowledged missing George's childhood games
• George realized: "I'm on pace to replicate the same mistake"

[00:22:03] What Really Matters at the End * Father never said on his deathbed: "I wish I'd seen one more patient" * Never: "I wish I'd closed one more property" (he was in real estate too) * Never: "I wish I'd taken that client call or upsold them" * Only: "Are the people I love around me? I just need them right now"

[00:22:52] Training Your Replacement * Need focused attention on him or he'll get influence from somewhere else * 2015-2018: George knew he had the problem but didn't have the solution yet * It took 3 years for the solution to birth itself into something actionable

[00:31:37] The 100-Hour Grind Reality * Was working 80-100+ hours per week * Weekends meant LESS interruptions, so worked even HARDER * Wasn't healthy for mind, wasn't healthy for family * Not a sustainable long-term strategy

[00:32:33] Life After Buying Back Time Real freedom looks like:

• Now works 20-30 hours per week when in creation mode
• Can work as little as 5 hours per week when traveling
• Can turn phone off and check back tomorrow, nothing falls apart
• If something breaks, team handles it without him

[00:33:08] God's Purpose Realized * "I just feel like it's God's purpose of putting me on the planet to help share this" * Secondary benefit: Make more money and nice lifestyle * Primary benefit: Being with family for the moments that matter * Non-negotiable: Not missing games, graduations, or special moments

[00:35:42] Northern Michigan & Homeschool Freedom * Bought property in Northern Michigan, turned it into successful Airbnb * Teaching son how to negotiate real estate deals and assess properties * Son is homeschooled, gets to tag along on their adventures * Ultimate flexibility: "We're studying the Washington Monument this week. Let's go see it tomorrow"

[00:37:20] The Buy Back Time Formula * Available at buybacktimeformula.com * Everyone's unique—different reasons for wanting to buy back time * Some love working but need to cast vision instead of being in the weeds * Focus on high-dollar things that move the needle * Structure and confidence from someone who's been at it for 30 years

KEY QUOTES "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years. Money was great, income was great, but life was not enjoyable." - George Rivera

"It's never too late to say, 'Hey, this needs to change 'cause I've already missed moments I'll never get back, but at least I did something about it.' The longer you wait, those missed moments rack up. We wanna be the one that experiences those moments. Not miss 'em." - George Rivera

"I was inundated and I didn't know how to properly remove myself as being the bottleneck on a lot of things." - George Rivera

CONNECT WITH GEORGE RIVERA 🌐 Website: https://www.georgerivera.com💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-rivera-53b3296 📚 Buy Back Time Formula: https://www.buybacktimeformula.com

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What if middle school endurance training and PhD-level strategic thinking could revolutionize executive coaching?

In this episode, Carla Fowler, founder of THAXA and executive coaching expert, shares her unconventional journey from MD/PhD student to surgical resident to performance science coach. Through two pivotal relationships: a demanding outdoor education teacher and a world-class immunology researcher. Carla discovered how physical endurance and strategic thinking form the foundation of extraordinary leadership. Her mission? Helping 50-60 executives at a time accelerate toward their goals using evidence-based performance science while freeing up their mental bandwidth to focus on what matters most.

Carla reflects on how these mentors arrived at critical moments in her development and why she believes performance science, not generic leadership advice, is the key to helping leaders achieve breakthrough results.

[00:04:00] What THAXA Does * THAXA = Executive coaching firm centered on performance science * Helps leaders and executives improve results, impact, and leadership * Uses rigorous scientific foundation from multiple disciplines * Works with 50-60 leaders at a time across diverse industries * Every approach is individualized. No cookie-cutter solutions

[00:04:00] The Unconventional Path * Started career in medicine: MD/PhD program at University of Washington * Trained to become an academic physician blending clinical work and research * Matched to general surgery residency after graduating * Made the hard pivot: left surgery after one year to pursue passion for performance * 12 years building a coaching practice that merges science with practical application

[00:04:00] The Science Nerd Meets Impact * Always fascinated by high performance since fifth grade * Loved surgery for its hands-on + decision-making combination * Realized coaching could create exponential impact: improve one leader, impact everyone they lead * Performance science is broad and deep enough to meet each client's unique needs * Blends everything from business strategy to physiology and decision-making

[00:16:40] The Power of Mental Clarity * Example: Multi-hour focus sessions to help leaders get crystal clear on goals * One client shared their clarity framework with their team. Team "lit up" * Team members could finally see where they fit and why they mattered * Result: Better alignment AND genuine motivation from one strategic input * Shows the power of performance science: one principle creates multiple downstream effects

[00:20:40] Two Pivotal People [00:21:38] 1. Fran Call: The Physical Endurance Teacher * Middle school outdoor education teacher (7th and 8th grade) * Ran alternative PE program focused on endurance activities * Showed Carla how to do hard things and believe in herself

[00:30:00] 2. Phil Greenberg: The Strategic Thinking Mentor * PhD advisor in immunology at University of Washington * Early pioneer in T-cell immunotherapy for cancer research * Very hands-off mentor. Forced Carla to think independently * The game-changer: Pushed on the quality of her thinking, not just productivity * Would challenge: "Why are you doing that experiment? What's most valuable to learn?"

[00:37:20] The Million-Dollar Question * Working with entrepreneur who wanted to sell company for specific valuation * Client stopped mid-conversation: "I need to raise my prices immediately" * That one insight contributed to over $1 million in company value

[00:41:40] The Ripple Effect Philosophy * Not just about what leaders need to DO, but WHO is around them * Both mentors arrived at exactly the right moments in Carla's development * Physical endurance (Fran) + Strategic thinking (Phil) = Her unique coaching approach * Leaders don't have to figure everything out alone. The world's highest performers don't * Relationships create impacts that cascade through our entire lives

KEY QUOTES "A lot of times we think we have to have this super linear path to get a place. Mine was linear for a while and then took a major left turn. I think it's great to always just have stories where you can always make pivots in your career." - Carla Fowler

"If I could help connect leaders to science and ideas that would help them improve, like their ability to inspire or connect or lead, if I could improve them even just a little bit, the number of people who would be impacted by that and who would get the downstream effect would be many." - Carla Fowler

"Part of coaching is having a process that turns the soil. You don't know what it's gonna be and you don't know when it's gonna happen. But sometimes that's what it looks like if you have a good process." - Carla Fowler

CONNECT WITH CARLA FOWLER 🌐 Website: https://www.thaxa.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-fowler

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What if saying yes to significance over money could unlock a decade of impact and lead you to build the business you were always meant to create?

In this episode, Steve Caton, founder of Altezza Solutions and fractional sales expert, shares his remarkable journey from rejecting his banker father's career path to becoming a champion for trapped founders. Through four pivotal relationships, each arriving at exactly the right moment, Steve learned the art of relational sales, the discipline of the sales process, the courage to choose significance, and the confidence to finally launch his own company. His mission? Freeing brilliant founders from the sales trap so they can lead their vision while spending more time at the dinner table with their families.

Steve reflects on how the right mentors at the right time shaped his career and why he believes the fractional sales model is a game-changer for emerging growth companies stuck between $1-5 million in revenue.

[00:06:00] What Altezza Does

• Altezza = Italian word for "altitude" (inspired by Colorado living)
• Provides fractional sales expertise AND execution
• Frees brilliant founders trapped doing sales instead of leading their vision
• Allows business owners to focus on what truly matters: building their extraordinary future

[00:06:40] The Sales Trap is Real

• Emerging growth businesses started by visionary innovators
• Founders know they need to stop selling but don't have the framework
• Can't attract top-tier salespeople without proper sales infrastructure
• Hiring inexperienced or commission-only reps almost always fails

[00:08:20] The Innovator's Journey

• Steve discovered he's wired as an innovator and starter
• Thrives in early-stage growth companies ($1-5M revenue range)
• Gets restless when companies become routine without innovation
• Spent career helping companies bring in their first real salesperson

[00:11:00] The COVID Pivot

• Waited until last son graduated college to start the business
• Launched during COVID pandemic, initially seemed like bad timing
• Actually worked in their favor: remote work became normalized
• Altezza operates 100% remotely, selling remotely

[00:12:00] The Sweet Spot Client

• Professional services or technology firms
• $1-5 million in revenue range
• Founder still trapped in the sales motion
• Highly relational, consultative sales needed
• Can sell remotely without boots-on-the-ground

[00:13:00] Three Service Models

• Do It Yourself: Client has sales infrastructure, just needs the right salesperson
• Done With You: Some documentation exists, needs tweaking and 90-day support
• Done For You: Everything lives in founder's head, must extract, document, and build systems

[00:14:40] Beyond the Numbers

• Stories of 40% sales increases and doubled revenue matter
• But the real win: founders getting home for dinner more often
• Client's wife thanked their salesperson: "My husband is home for dinner way more"
• Freedom founders dreamed of when starting their business

[00:17:40] Four Pivotal People

[00:18:40] 1. His Dad: The Passion

• Banking and finance background
• Ton of passion, drive, fire, and energy
• Steve internalized that drive but knew banking wasn't his path
• Couldn't envision putting on a suit and tie every day

[00:19:23] 2. David: The Relational Sales Master

• Left high-paying pharmaceutical job to start real estate company
• Invited Steve to get real estate license and sell with him
• 10 years older, taught Steve everything about relationship-driven sales
• How to build rapport, ask open-ended questions, and shut up and listen
• Made way more money in real estate than he would have in banking

[00:22:11] 3. Doug Sherman: The Process Guru

• Held record for highest math score on Air Force Academy entrance exam
• Sales consultant for companies like Boeing
• Helped Boeing overcome getting "their butt kicked by Airbus"
• Game changer: Taught Steve about sales PROCESS for the first time

[00:25:24] 4. Jerry Melek: The Significance Prophet

• Grandfather of kid on Steve's son's football team
• Career counselor and recruiter with strong faith
• Steve at crossroads: high-paying jobs vs. low-paying significant opportunity
• Jerry's challenge: "You told me you wanted significance. This is black and white. Which job is about significance? If you care about significance and not money, this is a no-brainer."
• Hit Steve right between the eyes, he was too fearful to do what he felt led to do

[00:29:00] 5. Don Martin: The Business Leadership Mentor

• Former Century 21 executive team member
• Gave Steve the tools to actually LEAD a company and be a business owner
• Helped Steve see he wasn't launching Altezza because of fear
• "God created you for this moment: see it, own it, have faith, take the step"
• Still there for challenges, rough days, pep talks, and "kicks in the ass"

[00:31:40] The Ripple Effect Moment

• Leaving the company Jerry helped him join
• Spontaneous going away party with his team
• One by one shared the impact Steve had on them
• Gave him caricature with signatures and encouragement

[00:34:49] The "Go With Others" Glass

• Gift from team member at that farewell gathering
• Reminder of ripple effects Steve won't get to see
• Still uses it 9 years later: an anchor to that meaningful season
• Physical reminder of choosing significance over salary

KEY QUOTES "We don't get wherever we are in life by ourselves. It's always with the help that we get from other people we intersect with on the journey along the way." - Steve Caton

"When a company got to a certain size, I started getting super restless because God wired me as an innovator and a starter. When you put me in an early stage growth company, I'm thriving. As soon as it starts to feel routine, I get bored." - Steve Caton

CONNECT WITH STEVE CATON 🌐 Website: https://www.altezzasolutions.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scaton

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What if the right relationships at the right time positioned you at the forefront of every major technology revolution for 25 years?

In this episode, Peter Swain, international speaker, bestselling author, and AI enablement advocate, shares his extraordinary journey from coding at age six to being at the epicenter of three major tech paradigm shifts — the web, mobile, and now AI. Through chance encounters with Tim Berners-Lee (inventor of HTML and the World Wide Web), working directly with Steve Jobs, and saying "yes" to countless opportunities, Peter has built a career helping entrepreneurs leverage AI to work half the time while earning twice as much.

Peter reflects on how relationships and serendipitous moments shaped his path and why he believes AI is more transformative than if aliens landed tomorrow.

[00:04:02] The Six-Year-Old Coder

• Started coding in 1983 at age six on a Spectrum ZX 80
• Beta testing for Microsoft at age 12
• Met Tim Berners-Lee at 17 (inventor of HTML and the World Wide Web)
• Quit high school to become one of the first web developers in the world

[00:06:00] Three Technology Paradigm Shifts

• Built UK version of Yelp before Internet Explorer launched
• Mid-2000s: Bought first iPhone, closed web business—"This smells the same"
• Started first mobile agency in Europe, worked with McDonald's, BBC, Microsoft, Apple, Google
• 2023: Downloaded ChatGPT beta, immediately rolled up current business

[00:08:20] Understanding AI: Beyond the Noise

• Four groups: technical experts, futurists, doomsayers, and prompt sellers
• Peter's philosophy: "Integrated Living"—AI amplifies human capabilities
• The power of "and" versus "or"—great family AND business AND health

[00:12:20] Why Social Media and Bitcoin Weren't the Same

• Social media: Puts people in silos and echo chambers
• Bitcoin: "Most awesome solution waiting for a problem"
• AI is fundamentally different: A new form of intelligence
• More impactful than if aliens landed tomorrow

[00:16:20] Communication, Not Technical Skill

• Most people give AI 10-word instructions
• Would you hand your business to someone with 10 words?
• AI is coded to be people-pleasing—always says "yes" without context

[00:18:00] The Business Handoff Analogy

• Imagine asking someone to run your business for three weeks with just office keys
• They'd keep it afloat but create chaos without proper context
• Same thing happens when you give AI insufficient information

[00:20:20] The Critical Test

• Ask AI: "What did you need to know to do this well?"
• AI will list 28+ things you didn't provide
• Instructions should be around 1,000 words
• Less produces "looks great but is secretly terrible" results

[00:23:40] Million-Dollar Relationships: Too Many to Choose

• Dad gave first computer and introduced him to Tim Berners-Lee
• Philippe Trush taught discipline and diligence
• Tom Bell gave first job with no qualifications
• "Nobody is self-made"

[00:25:20] The Series of Unlikely Events

• Recent deal traced back through networking chain
• Tony Robbins ticket → networking group → presentation opportunity → major deal
• Can't predict going forward, only track backward

[00:27:00] The Power of Saying Yes

• "The right advice at the wrong time is still the wrong advice"
• Until you know your place and purpose, say YES to everything
• Universe consistently offers gifts we're too busy to see
• After finding your North Star, THEN start saying no

[00:31:40] The Most Aligned He's Ever Felt

• Everything before was leading to AI
• Web and mobile: Tools to help humans work better
• AI's promise: It will do it FOR you
• Fundamental shift in everything—relationships, health, spirituality

[00:34:00] Why Entrepreneurs, Not Big Business

• Most entrepreneurs are great at their craft but terrible at business
• AI as the leveler: Handles operations so you can focus on genius
• Margins can go from 20% to 80-90%

[00:38:20] Free Mastermind Offer

• Weekly calls every Thursday for three years
• 250 members helping people earn twice as much in half the time
• peterswain.com/mastermind

KEY QUOTES "The right advice at the wrong time is still the wrong advice. Until you know why you are on this planet, say yes to as many things as possible. If it's not gonna kill you and it's not addictive, you should say yes." - Peter Swain

"AI is more impactful than if aliens landed tomorrow. This is a new form of intelligence that doesn't need to sleep, eat, rest, or have water." - Peter Swain

"An instruction to AI should be around a thousand words. Anything less, you're probably gonna get something that looks great, but is secretly terrible." - Peter Swain

"Nobody is self-made. We are all built on the shoulders of great men and women. That doesn't make your achievements any less. It just allows you to honor what's happened." - Peter Swain

CONNECT WITH PETER SWAIN 🌐 Website: peterswain.com 🎯 Free Mastermind Trial: peterswain.com/mastermind 📱 All Socials: peterswain247 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/peterswain247 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/peterswainpersonal

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What if your father's unconventional advice became the foundation for a 30-year career performing for millions?

In this episode, Chad Jeffers, guitarist for Carrie Underwood and luxury real estate agent, shares his extraordinary journey from a family band in East Tennessee to performing on the world's biggest stages. Through his father's counterintuitive guidance and a creative introduction to bestselling author Dan Miller, Chad has built a career touring with Kenny Loggins, Keith Urban, and Carrie Underwood for 18 years — while also launching a speaking career, teaching at Belmont University, and creating the "Be Performance Ready" movement.

Chad reflects on the relationships that shaped his unconventional path and continues to fuel his mission to help entrepreneurs show up as their best selves in high-pressure moments.

[00:04:00] Who Is Chad Jeffers?

• 18 years as guitarist for Carrie Underwood, previously with Kenny Loggins and Keith Urban
• 30 years as a professional musician
• Luxury real estate agent specializing in music and entertainment industry clients

[00:07:00] The "Be Performance Ready" Movement

• Applying musician performance techniques to business meetings
• The psychology of "show clothes" and how they trigger performance mindset
• One less thing to worry about when you know you look good

[00:12:20] Million-Dollar Relationship #1: His Father

• "Don't ever get a job with benefits if you want to do music"
• "You've gotta go to Nashville and become part of the fabric of the community"
• Created a family band that launched three professional music careers
• Attended all 47 Grand Ole Opry performances with Pinmonkey

[00:15:20] Following the Unconventional Path

• Attended Belmont University to learn the business side of music
• Built relationships throughout university that lasted decades
• "The whole generation comes up together" in the music industry

[00:18:40] Million-Dollar Relationship #2: Dan Miller

• Creative introduction: bought a 3/4 size guitar with note "you haven't heard my tune yet"
• Had it couriered to his house
• Dan's response: "Best introduction I've ever seen"

[00:20:00] The Three-Hour Mexican Lunch

• Dan suggested: "I think you should write a book"
• Share experiences to help others navigate the music industry

[00:21:20] From Book to Speaking Career

• Wrote "25 Notes for the Successful Musician" in 2008
• Book opened doors to speaking and teaching at Belmont University
• Created "Be Performance Ready" course as an extension

[00:22:40] Dan Miller's Champion Role

• From 2007 until his passing in 2024
• Constant encouragement and validation
• Always available for advice and support

[00:24:40] The Speaking Career Launch

• Dan invited Chad to speak at his workshop
• Kent Julian (in the audience) taught Chad the business of speaking
• Both book and speaking career started with Dan's support

[00:26:20] Current Speaking Focus

• Heavy focus on speaking at universities
• Believes skills impact students beyond stage—for entire life

KEY QUOTES "If you want to do music, you've gotta go to where it's at. They're not gonna be calling you. You've gotta go down to Nashville and become a part of the fabric of the community." - Chad's father

"I think you should write a book. Write about all of your experiences and share that with people so it may help them." - Dan Miller's advice

"Relationships are absolutely the cornerstone of everything that I do. Whether it's music or real estate or personal, it definitely all starts with the relationships." - Chad Jeffers

CONNECT WITH CHAD JEFFERS 🌐 Website: chadjeffers.com 📧 Email: chad@chadjeffers.com 📱 Instagram: @chadjeffers 🎯 Be Performance Ready Waitlist: chadjeffers.com/bpr 🎸 Backstage Notes: backstagenotes.com 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chad-jeffers-a0216199 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/chad.jeffers

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What if your greatest suffering became the foundation for healing thousands of others? In this episode, Mike Dannheim, founder of Sensie, shares his extraordinary journey from a traumatic brain injury and suicide attempt at 19 to leading a groundbreaking wellness technology company. Through his experience with addiction recovery, meditation, and cutting-edge neuroscience, Mike has created a platform that predicts stress before it becomes a problem and generates measurable biopsychological resilience.

Mike reflects on the mentors and relationships that saved his life, shaped his path, and continue to fuel his mission to help people connect more deeply with their body's intelligence.

[00:03:54] What Is Sensie?

• Predicting stress before it's a problem and generating wellness
• Using smartphone sensors to assess micro movements in gestures
• Identifying sources of stress and providing precise techniques to alleviate them
• Breakthrough: measurable biopsychological resilience

[00:05:03] The Birth of Two Passions

• Leading consumer technology companies for 15 years
• Personal healing work and 21 years of sobriety
• Helping everyone from people with addiction to CEOs and professional athletes
• Wellness-based coaching rooted in recovery principles

[00:06:00] The Car Accident That Changed Everything

• Traumatic brain injury at age 19
• Out-of-body experience watching himself at the accident scene
• Retrograde amnesia: not knowing who he was or where he was
• Struggling with short-term memory recall and feeling like he was in hell
• Trying to take his own life at 19

[00:07:40] The Meditation Miracle

• Four to six months of meditation bringing his brain back
• Memory returning and life taking off
• Leading a $16 billion IPO and living around the world
• Life becoming "beyond my wildest dreams"
• Mainstream medicine in 2002 not understanding neuroplasticity
• Doctors believing he wouldn't recover
• Deep dive into neuroscience, consciousness studies, and Eastern spirituality

[00:08:26] The Power of Movement and Meditation

• Witnessing impact on hundreds of people's lives
• Techniques that compress 10 years of therapy into one session
• Transforming suffering into intelligence and wisdom
• Helping people show up more present in their lives

[00:11:26] Million-Dollar Relationships: Martin

• The man who taught Mike meditation and saved his life
• Going back seven years later to thank him

[00:12:00] Alessandro Anastacia: The First Believer

• First investor in Sensie, met in Tokyo during Groupon expansion
• Speaks five languages, sometimes all in one sentence
• Lives by Ubuntu philosophy: "For us, by us"
• Invested before any R&D, just to support two friends with good hearts

[00:13:40] Satya Raja: The Leadership Guide

• Vince Covino's partner and partner in Sensie
• Integrating enlightened leadership for over 30 years
• Found Mike in a really hard place, frustrated with support levels
• Helped Mike see himself and clean up his own energy

[00:16:01] The Life-Saving Impact

• Getting emotional reflecting on the question
• Helping a man who was trying to take his life
• Using techniques learned from Satya and others
• The man is now a close friend with four kids and a thriving art business in Miami

[00:19:00] Kevin's Story: Losing His Father

• Diagnosed with cancer at the beginning of ninth grade
• Passing at the end of 10th grade after a year and a half
• Not a word left unsaid between father and son
• The uncle who became a father figure and passed away in February
• The surprise family reunion with his last remaining aunt
• The power of honoring those still with us

[00:24:21] Final Reflection: The Body's Intelligence

• Research field called Interoception: neuromechanics of inner awareness
• Deeper connection to inner environment improves life across all domains
• Trust levels, friendships, contentment, fulfillment, even financial success
• Dr. John Coates' research: traders who could self-assess heartbeat had higher profitability
• The more we help each other connect to our body's intelligence, the better life gets

KEY QUOTES "He invested in our company before we had done any R&D. He just wanted to support two friends. He didn't care, and put any pressure on us. He was just like, I know you guys have good hearts. Here's the money. Go do the research." - Mike Dannheim on Alessandro

"Grief is unexpressed love. May we not leave this funeral with any unexpressed love." - Satya Raja's message that Mike shared with his family

"By being able to grieve the death of my mother, I can still feel her in my heart. She's never left. She's here loving you, me, right now." - Mike Dannheim

"Instead of having to go through 10 years of therapy, you can get it in one session. There's very well researched techniques that can help alleviate suffering so it can become intelligence and wisdom." - Mike Dannheim

"The more we can help each other connect more deeply to our body's intelligence, the better this life gets." - Mike Dannheim

CONNECT WITH MIKE DANNHEIM 🔗 LinkedIn📘 Facebook🌐 Sensie.app📧 mike@joinsensie.com

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What if the biggest barrier to your success isn't lack of opportunity, but the insecurity holding you back from showing up?

In this episode, David Ask shares his remarkable journey from a small-town Minnesota vocal major to a successful entrepreneur with products in 3,700+ retail stores including Home Depot and Lowe's. Through his thermostat guard invention and his work as an author and vocalist, David reveals how the power of authentic relationships, especially through the Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind, transformed not just his business, but every area of his life.

David reflects on overcoming crippling insecurity, the mentors who saw his potential before he did, and why "just showing up" as your authentic self is the real superpower in business and life.

[00:02:22] Meet David Ask

• Kevin introduces David to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast
• Shout-out to Juliana Starky for the connection
• The power of right relationships opening doors

[00:06:13] The Music Revelation

• Discovering music wasn't about the craft, it was about connection
• Using music as a tool to help people look within and "look up"
• Why a vocal major who rarely goes to concerts or buys records makes perfect sense

[00:10:20] The Thermostat Guard Story

• A brother-in-law's phone call that changed everything
• Working in real estate group for Verizon overseeing five states and 75 stores
• Identifying a pain point: thermostat guards with keys people kept losing
• Learning injection molding, overseas manufacturing, and supply chain management from scratch

[00:13:20] The Power of Revealing Others' Riches

• Benjamin Disraeli's quote that defines David's mission
• Loving to see the uniqueness and strengths in others
• Meeting Dr. Andy Garra (Carl's Jr. founder's grandson) in mastermind

[00:16:29] Overcoming Insecurity

• Suffering with insecurity his whole life
• Thinking success was for people with "the Midas touch"
• How insecurity almost prevented him from joining Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind

[00:20:21] Million-Dollar Relationships: Aaron Walker

• The founder of Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind who changed David's trajectory
• Hearing about ISI for years but being too insecure to join
• Getting invited to do music at their annual event in Smithville, Tennessee

[00:25:20] The Music Mission Revealed

• David Ash's observation: "You don't sing because you like music"
• Pointing out that David rarely goes to concerts or buys records
• The truth: "You do music because you want to inspire people"
• Shifting from being "a musician" to being "on mission"

[00:26:25] Guardians of Grit for Fathers and Sons

• Writing a book with Juliana Starky about identity
• Helping fathers identify their own powerful, unique qualities
• Equipping them to specifically call forth those qualities in their sons
• Moving beyond generic advice like "be nice and work hard"

[00:28:31] The Power of Showing Up

• David's challenge: Can you share an example of impact that wouldn't have happened without these relationships?
• The answer: Swinging for the fence, sending his song to President Trump
• Thinking "Why can't I sing at the White House?"
• Performing at places requiring non-disclosure agreements
• Launching the new Lockbox Pro for the professional contractor market

[00:30:20] The Prison Ministry Story

• Former pastor inviting David to sing at a prison ice cream social
• Battling fear about going into the prison
• Meeting a sophisticated man in a jumpsuit, staring into nothingness

[00:31:40] "I Think I'm Gonna Kill Myself Tonight"

• The inmate's matter-of-fact confession
• David's uncertainty about what to say
• Deciding to sing Nessun Dorma (Pavarotti's famous aria)

[00:33:20] The Power of Music and Presence

• Explaining the aria makes something "rise up" in him
• The inmate standing in the back, alone
• Finishing the song to see him smiling ear to ear with tears streaming

[00:37:14] Final Reflections

• Kevin's two-pronged mission for the podcast
• Giving guests a chance to honor those who impacted them
• Inspiring entrepreneurs to create meaningful, profitable relationships
• Gratitude for David's authentic sharing

KEY QUOTES "The greatest good you can do for another is not to share with him your riches, but to reveal to him his own." - Benjamin Disraeli (David's guiding principle)

"I suffered with such insecurity my whole life and I just thought success was for those who had the Midas touch." - David Ask

"You don't sing because you like music. You do music because you want to inspire people." - David Ash to David Ask

"The times when I've had the biggest impact is when David Ask gets out of the way and doesn't have some weird agenda and just shows up." - David Ask

"I think authenticity is the new superpower. We think we have to achieve an identity or achieve status, but the opposite is true — showing up with a generous heart, with curiosity and wonder, and just being yourself." - David Ask

CONNECT WITH DAVID ASK 🔗 LinkedIn📘 Facebook🌐 DavidAsk.com🎵 DavidAskMusic.com🔒 StatGuardPlus.com🏢 ChorumGlobal.com📧 hello@davidask.com

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What if the key to business growth wasn’t just strategy, but building trust at every level?

In this episode, Geoffrey Toffetti, CEO of Frontline Performance Group (FPG), shares his journey from starting as a hotel valet to leading the world’s top company in frontline sales performance for hospitality. With 30 years of proven results and partnerships with global hotel giants like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Radisson, and IHG, FPG empowers frontline teams to maximize revenue, improve guest experiences, and drive employee engagement, all through its innovative IN-Gauge SaaS platform.

Geoffrey reflects on pivotal mentors, lessons from scaling companies, and why trust is the cornerstone of leadership and culture.

[00:02:15] Meet Geoffrey Toffetti

• Kevin introduces Geoffrey to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast
• Shout-out to Claire and Quoted for the connection
• Geoffrey explains FPG’s mission to empower hospitality frontline teams

[00:05:00] From Valet to Executive Leadership

• Starting out parking cars at TradeWinds Resort in Florida
• Moving into management roles before joining a dot-com startup in 2000
• Surviving the dot-com bubble and rising to VP of Strategic Solutions

[00:07:00] Joining FPG

• Meeting founder Ziad Khoury after six months of conversations
• Leaving a billion-dollar company for a sub-$10M firm with high potential
• Why empowering people to generate revenue was more inspiring than cost-cutting

[00:09:10] Expanding into Hospitality

• FPG’s origins in the automotive industry
• How Geoffrey’s hotel background guided expansion into hospitality
• Scaling to serve more than 2,500 hotels worldwide

[00:13:27] Million-Dollar Relationships

• The pivotal role of Ziad Khoury in Geoffrey’s journey
• Trusting Geoffrey with leadership and appointing him CEO during COVID
• How Ziad’s generosity and mentorship transformed FPG’s future

[00:15:02] Influential Mentors

• Coach Matt Hedrick: lessons on leadership and culture from football
• Harold Mills, CEO of ZeroChaos: strategic mentorship in sales and contracts
• How diverse mentors shaped Geoffrey’s leadership philosophy

[00:18:46] Paying It Forward

• Stories of hiring and empowering talent during challenging times
• Transformations that reshaped both individuals and the business
• Why building people is key to sustainable success

[00:22:00] Leading with Trust

• Why leaders must give trust first instead of demanding it be earned
• How trust shaped FPG’s resilience through COVID pay cuts with no turnover
• The dangers of leading without openness or respect

[00:24:30] Building a Strong Culture

• FPG as a “tribe” rooted in ethics, values, and trust
• Why cultural violations, not mistakes, are deal-breakers
• How trust-driven culture fosters resilience, innovation, and loyalty

[00:32:14] FPG’s Global Impact

• Overview of FPG’s IN-Gauge SaaS platform
• Equipping frontline managers with performance analytics, training, and incentives
• How FPG sustains its leadership after 30 years in the industry

[00:34:00] Final Reflections

• Why leading with trust transforms both relationships and business
• The role of vulnerability and openness in effective leadership
• Geoffrey’s advice: “Lead with trust, you can’t go wrong.”

KEY QUOTES “Leaders must give trust first. It’s yours to lose.” - Geoffrey Toffetti “Culture built on trust creates resilience, even in the hardest times.” - Geoffrey Toffetti “What FPG does isn’t about squeezing nickels, it’s about inspiring people to generate revenue.” - Geoffrey Toffetti

CONNECT WITH GEOFFREY TOFFETTI 🔗 LinkedIn 🌐 Frontline Performance Group

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What if building a multimillion-dollar brand wasn’t just about innovation, but about listening, legacy, and empowering confidence in women?

In this episode, Eve DeMartine, founder and CEO of Popilush Shapewear, shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Malaysia to leading one of the fastest-growing shapewear brands in the world. With over $100 million in growth sales, Eve has redefined what shapewear can be by blending comfort, inclusivity, and style, all while staying true to her mission of helping women feel confident in every moment of life.

Eve reflects on her entrepreneurial path, how viral growth transformed her company overnight, and the invaluable relationships that shaped her resilience and success.

[00:02:26] Meet Eve DeMartine

• Kevin introduces Eve to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast
• How her assistant Amanda connected her to the show
• Eve introduces Popilush and its mission to empower women

[00:05:34] From Motherhood Struggles to Inspiration

• Postpartum body changes after twins sparked the idea for Popilush
• Creating shapewear that is comfortable, stylish, and inclusive
• Turning personal struggles into a brand that supports women everywhere

[00:06:46] The Viral Breakthrough

• From slow early sales to an influencer video that went viral
• $200,000 in sales on Amazon within one week
• Challenges of scaling quickly and the importance of strong factory partnerships

[00:09:40] Listening and Adapting

• Using customer complaints to improve designs (solving the “walking sound” issue)
• Conducting face-to-face customer interviews in LA and New York
• Constantly innovating based on real feedback

[00:10:57] Key Lessons from Growth

• Be prepared before going viral
• React quickly when opportunities come
• Value strong partnerships and relentless work ethic

[00:13:17] Legacy and Family Values

• Influence of Eve’s great-grandfather and family business in Malaysia
• Lessons of craftsmanship, trust, and responsibility
• Why entrepreneurship is about legacy and community impact

[00:15:09] Motivation to Create Popilush

• Frustration with traditional shapewear being bulky and uncomfortable
• The aha moment that inspired built-in shapewear
• Mission: enhance women’s confidence without changing who they are

[00:17:47] Growth and Expansion

• Hitting $100 million in growth sales by 2024
• Popilush products featured at Nordstrom
• Opening the first Las Vegas outlet store

[00:19:22] Final Reflections

• Eve’s journey from Macy’s cosmetic counter to global entrepreneur
• Advice: trust your instincts, take baby steps, and keep moving
• Why entrepreneurship is about impact, not just profit

KEY QUOTES “Don’t wait until you’re ready, just go for it. You’ll grow in the process.” - Eve DeMartine “Entrepreneurship isn’t just about money. It’s about legacy, impact, and responsibility.” - Eve DeMartine “Our goal is simple: make women feel comfortable, confident, and proud in what they wear.” - Eve DeMartine

CONNECT WITH EVE DEMARTINE 🔗 LinkedIn 🌐 Popilush

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What if the key to transforming an entire industry wasn’t just innovation, but genuine care for people and their experiences?

In this episode, Landon Wimmer, visionary CEO and Owner of Empower Home, shares his journey from selling door-to-door to building a trusted solar energy company that is redefining customer care in the renewable energy space. With over a decade in the solar industry, Landon has pioneered a “whole home” approach that ensures homeowners receive sustainable, affordable, and long-lasting energy solutions.

Landon reflects on his entrepreneurial path, the lessons he’s learned from relationships that shaped him, and why integrity, service, and mentorship remain at the core of his mission.

[00:02:19] Meet Landon Wimmer

• Kevin introduces Landon to the show
• Landon’s gratitude and excitement for the opportunity
• Why caring about customers and integrity drive his business

[00:06:13] From Sales Struggles to Finding Purpose

• Starting in door-to-door sales in 2006
• Early challenges and learning how to connect with people
• Discovering his sales breakthrough by focusing on relationships

[00:09:39] Entering the Solar Industry

• Moving into solar sales in 2012
• The $800 utility bill that revealed solar’s impact
• Realizing solar could change both finances and the environment

[00:12:05] Founding Empower Home

• Leaving large companies to start his own firm in 2019
• Running the business from his garage in the early days
• Taking ownership of the entire customer experience

[00:15:18] A Whole Home Approach

• Why roofing and HVAC matter in solar installations
• Expanding beyond “just solar” to full home energy solutions
• Creating lasting value by solving bigger challenges

[00:18:54] Navigating Industry Challenges

• Why over 100 solar companies failed in California
• Empower Home’s focus on sustainability and long-term care
• Expanding services into HVAC and roofing for resilience

[00:20:38] Relationships that Shaped the Journey

• Landon’s first mentor from a window-washing job at 15
• Early lessons in customer service and entrepreneurship
• The role of mentorship in shaping his leadership style

[00:27:09] Paying It Forward

• Mentoring new sales reps and teaching them success principles
• Story of a cashier who became a six-figure solar salesperson
• Why teaching and mentorship matter for legacy

[00:31:43] Closing Reflections

• Why entrepreneurship is really about valuing time and service
• How relationships shape both business and personal growth
• Landon’s passion for empowering homes and people

Key Quotes * “Integrity and character matter more than anything else. That’s how we run Empower Home.” - Landon Wimmer * “The moment I saw an $800 utility bill, I knew solar could change lives.” - Landon Wimmer * “Relationships are everything. They shaped who I am and how I do business.” - Landon Wimmer

Connect with Landon Wimmer LinkedIn

Empower Home

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What if the future of digital advertising wasn’t just about scale and reach, but about trust, transparency, and relationships?

In this episode, Matt Wasserlauf, three-time founder, two-time successful exit entrepreneur, author, and now CEO of Blockboard, shares his remarkable journey from pioneering online video ads 25 years ago to leading the charge against $120 billion in digital ad fraud today. Known as the “first guy to put TV commercials on the web,” Matt is revolutionizing ad tech by leveraging blockchain to bring accountability and transparency back to digital media.

Matt opens up about the pivotal relationships that shaped his career, from mentors who gave him his first big break to co-founders who helped him innovate at scale. He reflects on lessons learned in building companies, the value of mentorship, and how trust and collaboration fuel not just business, but entire industries.

[00:02:23] Meet Matt Wasserlauf

• Matt’s background in TV and transition into digital media
• Becoming the first to put TV commercials on the web
• The vision behind Blockboard and fixing ad fraud

[00:05:42] The $120 Billion Problem

• How ad fraud became one of the world’s biggest fraud rings
• Why it’s largely unpoliced and misunderstood
• Pepsi’s insights that validated the size of the problem

[00:07:33] How Ad Fraud Works

• The rise of bot farms in places like Iceland and Russia
• Mimicking platforms like Peacock to trick advertisers
• How Coca-Cola and other brands unknowingly waste millions

[00:11:00] Spotting the Warning Signs

• Why most agencies don’t tell clients about fraud
• The importance of transparency and hard results
• How direct response marketers became Blockboard’s biggest customers

[00:14:20] Relationships that Changed Everything

• How Jim DePalma gave Matt his first shot at CBS
• The mentorship that shaped his entrepreneurial path
• Meeting Tarun Yadav and 20 years of innovation together

[00:19:00] Building Measurement & Innovation

• Launching the first video measurement platform (Ndio)
• Why Procter & Gamble’s first streaming ad dollars were a turning point
• Innovating from early online video to blockchain verification

[00:21:37] Blockchain and Beating the Bots

• How Ethereum smart contracts power Blockboard
• Pre-verifying ad calls in 33 milliseconds
• Delivering real ads to real humans at scale

[00:26:34] Closing Reflections

• Why it’s the best time to be an entrepreneur
• The importance of building trust and networks
• Matt’s invitation to fellow entrepreneurs to share notes and innovate together

Key Quotes * “There’s $120 billion in digital ad fraud, and blockchain gives us the ability to stop it ” - Matt Wasserlauf * “Don’t worry about raising money. Just go sell. That advice changed my life” - Matt Wasserlauf * “Relationships and mentorship have shaped every step of my entrepreneurial journey" - Matt Wasserlauf

Connect with Matt Wasserlauf Facebook

LinkedIn

Blockboard

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What if the key to building one of America’s fastest-growing companies wasn’t just hard work, but the right relationships at the right time?

In this episode, Tyler Dunagin, founder and CEO of Turnserv, shares his extraordinary journey from flipping single-family homes to leading a platform revolutionizing the multifamily housing industry. Ranked in the top 500 on the Inc. 5,000 list, Turnserv now manages turnovers for hundreds of apartments each month and continues to scale at rapid speed.

Tyler opens up about the pivotal relationships that changed his life, the mentors who shaped his path, and the lessons he’s learned navigating growth, private equity, and leadership. Beyond his ventures — which include brands like “ApartmentPainters.com , LiquidLiner.com , and ApartmentFlooring.com”.

Tyler is passionate about family, classic cars, and cultivating networks that fuel growth and impact.

[00:02:20] Meet Tyler Dunagin

• Tyler’s background and early career in flipping houses.
• The vision behind Turnserv and solving turnover challenges.
• Expanding into multiple service brands.

[00:05:40] Scaling at Speed

• Turning over 500+ apartments a month.
• How Turnserv partners with major property managers.
• Why speed, scale, and quality rarely exist together in property management.

[00:10:20] Relationships that Changed Everything

• How a cold email opened the door to multifamily housing.
• Mentorship from industry leaders that reshaped his career.
• The impact of support from private equity advisors.

[00:14:00] Lessons from Mentorship

• The importance of patience, persistence, and learning fast.
• Why investors who act as advisors create exponential value.
• How key conversations shifted Tyler’s business trajectory.

[00:19:00] Aha Moments and Growth

• Realizing the scale of Turnserv’s impact.
• Celebrating small wins and the team’s contributions.
• Building systems and leadership that drive scalability.

[00:22:30] The Power of Networks

• Why relationships compound business growth.
• How proximity to leaders accelerates learning.
• The value of surrounding yourself with people who care.

[00:24:20] Closing Reflections

• People, not companies, drive success.
• Why cultivating meaningful relationships is the ultimate growth strategy.
• Tyler’s personal passions: family, sports, and classic cars.

Key Quotes

• “There’s a magical power in having a good network and cultivating it all the time.” — Tyler Dunagin
• “When you think about everyone’s contributions that led to success, you realize the magnitude of effort that compounds when you work together.” — Tyler Dunagin
• “People run companies. Companies don’t run themselves.” — Tyler Dunagin

Connect with Tyler Dunagin

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Turnserv
• Dunagin Collective

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What if your greatest professional success wasn’t just about the money raised, but about the lives changed and the relationships built along the way?

In this episode, Jeff Kruszyna — an award-winning direct response strategist, fundraiser, and copywriter, shares his journey from a New York college student inspired by 9/11 to raising over a quarter of a billion dollars for Republican campaigns, conservative advocacy organizations, veteran support groups, and Christian charities.

With more than 20 years of experience, Jeff has been recognized with industry honors including the AAPC “40 Under 40 Award,” Peer Choice All Star Awards, and multiple POLLIE and MAXI Awards. He opens up about the mentors who shaped his career, the family influences that grounded his values, and the early campaign that confirmed his calling to make an impact through fundraising.

Today, as co-founder of JMK Victory, Jeff continues to serve causes he believes in while staying rooted in faith, family, and community.

[00:02:18] Meet Jeff Kruszyna

• How Jeff’s last name is pronounced (“Kru-shin-a”).
• The introduction through Kurt & Kristen Luidhardt that changed everything.
• Early shoutout to Liberty Spenders podcast.

[00:05:27] Jeff’s Backstory

• Growing up in Southampton, New York.
• The impact of 9/11 during his first semester of college.
• Switching majors from computer science to political science.
• Discovering conservative activism and direct response fundraising.

[00:07:13] Building a Fundraising Career

• 20 years in direct response and nonprofit fundraising.
• Partnering with Joel Bogger to launch JMK Victory.
• Raising over $250 million for campaigns, causes, and Christian charities.

[00:10:07] Relationships that Changed Everything

• Honoring his grandfather, a Polish WWII veteran and immigrant.
• Lessons of hard work, resilience, and entrepreneurship.
• Passing on his grandfather’s legacy to his son.

[00:13:31] Mentors in the Industry

• Learning copywriting and creative strategy from Amy Paul.
• Business-building mentorship from Jamie Hogan.
• Why staying curious and constantly learning is critical.

[00:16:32] Impactful Campaigns

• Early work supporting two imprisoned border patrol agents.
• A Father’s Day appeal that made a national impact.
• Receiving a handwritten letter from one of the agents that confirmed his calling.

[00:19:12] Reflections and Purpose

• Knowing he was in the right place, with the right people, for the right reasons.
• The power of relationships in attracting the right opportunities.

[00:20:25] Connect with Jeff

• Website: jmkvictory.com
• Social media links (Facebook, LinkedIn, X).

[00:20:58] Closing Thoughts

• Gratitude for relationships built through introductions.
• Why his mission is not only raising funds but advancing God’s Kingdom.

Key Quotes

• “His work ethic and blue-collar values continue to shape my life and career.” — Jeff Kruszyna
• “Always be curious, always be learning. Never get stuck thinking you already know it all.” — Jeff Kruszyna
• “With God by our side and organizations such as yours, we will persevere and get through this tough season.” — Border Patrol Agent (inspired Jeff early in his career)

Connect with Jeff Kruszyna

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Website

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What if your life’s mission wasn’t just about career success, but about teaching others how to love, lead, and transform?

In this episode, Marcia Martin, one of the most prolific influencers of thought leadership in the last 40 years, shares her extraordinary journey as a pioneer of the human potential movement, Vice President of Erhard Seminars Training (est), and renowned transformational trainer and executive coach.

Recognized worldwide for her work in transformational leadership, relationship coaching, communication training, and public speaking, Marcia has trained over 300,000 people in more than 20 countries. Her clients include Capital One, Warner Bros., InterContinental Hotels, American Cancer Society, Chase Bank, Allianz, McCain Foods, Evian Water, Danone Group, and Hard Rock International.

From building est into a movement with millions of graduates to consulting for transformational leaders like Tony Robbins, Jack Canfield, and LifeSpring to managing the film shoot of The Secret – Law of Attraction, Marcia’s story is one of influence, mentorship, and lasting impact. Knighted in 2012 by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem for her humanitarian contributions, Dame Marcia Martin continues to inspire leaders across the globe.

[00:02:25] Meet Marcia Martin

• Marcia’s background in transformation and coaching.
• Her role in co-founding est and growing it from 30 people to millions worldwide.
• Becoming known as the “Godmother of Transformation.”

[00:06:40] Mentors and Influences

• Learning from Werner Erhard, Buckminster Fuller, Jerry Weintraub, and others.
• How mentorship shaped her journey.
• Why she prioritizes mentoring future leaders.

[00:10:15] Relationships that Changed Everything

• The profound impact of her aunt, Werner Erhard, and Buckminster Fuller.
• Why mentorship has been the cornerstone of her life and career.

[00:14:58] Commitment and Breakthrough Goals

• Lessons from Werner on persistence and results.
• The “commitment game” — making breakthrough goals that stretch who you are.
• A powerful story of perseverance that led Marcia to sell encyclopedias even after being arrested — and still hitting her goal.

[00:22:25] Mindset and Perspective

• How perspective shapes reality.
• Why abundance and scarcity coexist like the “old woman/young woman” optical illusion.
• Learning to manage the mind instead of letting it run wild.

[00:27:40] Managing the Mind

• Why our minds are like unruly teenagers.
• Choosing empowering thoughts over self-limiting beliefs.
• Training yourself to create the results you want.

[00:29:20] Marcia’s New Book

• Sex, Power, and Transformation: The Untold Story of est and the Human Potential Movement.
• How est went from a 30-person seminar to millions of graduates worldwide.
• Her memoir of resilience, transformation, and rising from adversity.

Key Quotes “My life’s work is having your life work better.” — Marcia Martin

“You either have a result or you have the reason you don’t have the result. What kind of person are you?” — Marcia Martin

“I don’t need to be followed. I want to create people who can lead.” — Marcia Martin

Connect with Marcia Martin * Facebook * LinkedIn * Website

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What if you could build a profitable, lifestyle-driven Amazon business that could eventually sell for millions, even without prior e-commerce experience?

In this episode, Neil Twa, CEO and Co-Founder of Voltage Holdings, opens up about his 17-year journey of building, launching, and acquiring e-commerce brands. After leaving a senior role at IBM, Neil became an early pioneer on Amazon, creating multiple FBA brands, generating tens of millions in revenue, and helping more than 1,000 entrepreneurs through consulting, coaching, and mentoring.

Neil shares how Voltage has grown to 12+ in-house brands and 40+ client brands, why they recently closed a $12M acquisition, and the systems that allow him to scale businesses without traditional employees. He also explains Voltage’s proprietary “green light process” for validating products and how partnerships and timing often matter more than resources.

Together with his business partner Reed Larsen, Neil co-authored the book Almost-Automated Income with FBA, a #1 new release that provides a step-by-step guide to building and exiting a profitable Amazon business. This conversation dives into resilience, priorities, and creating businesses that provide both freedom and lasting value.

[00:02:29] Catching Up with Neil

• Returning as the podcast’s first-ever guest after 3 years.
• Reflections on 300+ episodes of Million Dollar Relationships.
• Why relationships multiply opportunities.

[00:05:12] What Voltage Does

• Helping entrepreneurs build 7-figure businesses with physical products.
• 12+ in-house brands and 40+ client brands.
• The thrill of building something from nothing.

[00:10:08] Scaling and Acquisitions

• Moving from launch to systemization and scale.
• Closing a $12M acquisition deal.
• Growing brands for long-term exits.

[00:11:02] From Brands to Software

• Proprietary platform for product research and brand development.
• The “green light process” for product validation.
• Scaling without employees by empowering operators.

[00:12:40] Partnerships and Timing

• Why do the right opportunities show up when you’re not looking.
• Meeting collaborators at the perfect time.
• Growing through trusted relationships.

[00:16:15] Training Operators Instead of Hiring Employees

• How Neil partners with entrepreneurs as operators
• Splitting profits instead of salaries
• Building smarter teams through collaboration

[00:20:48] Launching Brands That Last

• From product validation to brand identity
• Mistakes most new sellers make
• Building businesses designed to scale and sell

[00:25:30] The Shift Toward Brand Acquisitions

• Why acquisitions accelerate growth
• How Neil evaluates acquisition opportunities
• Building value for long-term exits

[00:30:12] Almost-Automated Income with FBA

• Why Neil and Reed Larsen wrote their book
• A blueprint for lifestyle-driven e-commerce success
• Lessons for both new and seasoned entrepreneurs

[00:34:55] The Role of Mentorship and Coaching

• Guiding over 1,000 entrepreneurs
• Why mentorship accelerates growth
• Creating impact beyond revenue

[00:40:34] Evergreen Power of Physical Products

• Why physical products outlast trends.
• Building brands with longevity.
• Why resilience and due diligence matter.

[00:47:07] Final Reflections & Life Principles

• Neil on being a dad, entrepreneur, and conservative voice.
• The importance of priorities and imperfect action.
• Why resilience and perseverance are keys to success.

Key Quotes “Your opportunity begins at the end of your excuses.” — Neil Twa

“We help entrepreneurs build seven-figure businesses using physical products.” — Neil Twa

“Imperfect action beats perfect inaction every time.” — Neil Twa

Connect with Neil Twa * Voltage DM * Get the Free Book — use code MAXRESPONSE * Facebook * LinkedIn

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What if turning a simple idea into a one-of-a-kind gift for baseball fans could spark a multimillion-dollar business?

In this episode, Kris Dehnert, founder of Dehnert Media Group and CEO of Dugout Mugs®, shares lessons from 15 years of entrepreneurship across multiple industries including real estate, apparel, affiliate marketing, and eCommerce. With more than $65 million in online sales and partnerships with some of the biggest names in baseball, Kris reveals the mindset, strategies, and resilience that fueled his journey.

From humble beginnings naming his first company after himself to scaling Dugout Mugs® into a brand officially licensed by MLB, MiLB, MLBPA, and the Hall of Fame, Kris’s story is one of creativity, grit, and seizing opportunity. Today, he consults with businesses on sales, marketing, and social media while continuing to bet big on ventures and owners with vision.

[00:03:39] – $65 Million in Online Sales * Breaking down the path to surpassing $65M. * The marketing approaches that fueled growth. * Balancing consulting with full-scale business building.

[00:09:31] – Finding Diamonds in the Rough * Spotting visionary owners with scalable ideas. * Why Kris sometimes goes “all in” as a partner. * How he evaluates whether a business can become a unicorn.

[00:13:40] – The Dugout Mugs® Story * The origin of the Dugout Mugs® concept. * Turning a baseball bat into a mug. * Early challenges and breakthroughs.

[00:19:00] – Scaling with Licensing Deals * How Dugout Mugs® secured official MLB, MiLB, MLBPA, and Hall of Fame partnerships. * Recognition from major baseball organizations. * Building credibility through licensing.

[00:24:18] – Lessons in Leadership and Growth * Simplifying operations while scaling. * Why consistency beats complexity. * Balancing multiple ventures as a founder.

[00:29:00] – Mindset Shifts for Entrepreneurs * Learning to adapt when plans don’t work. * Keeping focus in the face of setbacks. * The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.

[00:34:00] – Giving Back and Mentorship * What drives Kris today beyond revenue. * Why collaboration and mentorship matter. * Helping the next generation of entrepreneurs.

[00:38:20] – Advice for Entrepreneurs * How to spot the right opportunities. * Knowing when to pivot versus when to double down. * The role of resilience in long-term success.

Key Quotes * “My goal is simple: help businesses do what they’re doing, better than they are currently doing it.” — Kris Dehnert * “Sometimes you find a diamond in the rough, a business with potential and an owner with vision — and in those cases, I go all in.” — Kris Dehnert * “Creativity, grit, and resilience are what turn ideas into multimillion-dollar ventures.” — Kris Dehnert

Connect with Kris Dehnert 🔗 Facebook 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Dugout Mugs

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What if the right strategy, powered by AI and human connection, could turn a struggling business into a multi-million-dollar success?

In this episode, David Asarnow, CEO of Sababa.global and founder of Business Nitrogen, shares insights from more than two decades of leadership, entrepreneurship, and transformation. Having scaled companies to eight and nine figures, coached top entrepreneurs, and pioneered AI-driven growth strategies, David has helped countless leaders reignite their passion, build systems that scale, and create lasting impact.

From working with Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes to building an eight-figure franchise in just five years, David’s journey is one of resilience, vision, and service. Today, through Sababa.global and Business Nitrogen, he empowers entrepreneurs to leverage practical AI, build high-performing teams, and position themselves uniquely in the marketplace.

[00:04:28] – David’s Work and Mission * Helping entrepreneurs build, grow, and scale businesses. * Why gratitude and transformation fuel his passion. * Early stories of client impact and renewed excitement.

[00:07:00] – Strategy and Positioning * Why high-ticket offers must be positioned as “new opportunities.” * Blue ocean positioning vs. improvement offers. * Choosing the right clients to create global impact.

[00:09:20] – Career Highlights * Growing a division from $0 to $45M in five years. * Scaling a franchise to eight figures. * Working with Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes.

[00:10:20] – Results That Inspire * Helping a speaker hit $1M in 90 days during COVID. * Growing a natural health business to nine figures. * Why excitement is contagious in business transformation.

[00:13:40] – Game-Changing Relationships * Kevin asks the core question: who changed everything? * David recalls Dr. Dan Pompa’s influence on his health and career, leading to 15 years of collaboration.

[00:17:12] – From Patient to Partner * How learning about autoimmune conditions changed David’s life. * His daughter’s health transformation using the same principles. * The power of a single seminar to spark lifelong impact.

[00:20:23] – Handshake Partnerships and Vision * The origin of their collaboration. * Growing a network of 300+ practitioners worldwide. * The honor of leading masterminds and shaping industries.

[00:21:40] – Honoring Jim Bunch * A 33-year friendship that led David to Tony Robbins’ world. * Overcoming fear of public speaking. * How mentorship unlocked his path as a speaker and strategist.

[00:27:00] – Inspiration from His Grandfather * Watching his grandfather start over at 50. * Lessons in grit, sales, and entrepreneurship. * Why that story fueled his own leap at 40.

[00:31:20] – The Power of Self-Talk and Relationships * Kevin and David discuss mindset, surrounding yourself with the right people, and why stories we tell ourselves determine our future.

Key Quotes * “You’re not just an improvement offer—you must create a new opportunity.” — David Asarnow * “Gratitude can spark movements. One word can change someone’s life.” — David Asarnow * “What you feed yourself and who you surround yourself with is everything.” — David Asarnow

Connect with David Asarnow 📧 david@businessnitrogen.com 🔗 Facebook 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 businessnitrogen.com 🔗 davidasarnow.com

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What if true leadership wasn’t about titles or power, but about serving others and creating lasting value?

In this episode, Mike Murphy shares lessons from over 40 years of leadership in healthcare, technology, and insurance — where he built billion-dollar companies, revitalized struggling businesses, and ultimately launched Sunstone Management Advisors. Known for his transformative leadership, Mike has orchestrated the integration of three disparate healthcare businesses, achieving 18% revenue and 40% EBITDA growth in the first year.

Through these experiences, and inspired by the mentorship of bosses and his father, Mike embraced timeless principles of leadership: always out-earn your pay, give more than you take, find a way to win, and lead by serving others. His story is one of resilience, accountability, and a commitment to ethical success and cultural alignment. From empowering teams to pull off the “Massachusetts Miracle” to helping leadership groups push beyond the status quo, Mike demonstrates the power of building high-performing teams and creating sustainable enterprise value.

[00:04:05] – Mike’s Journey Into Leadership

• 40+ years in healthcare and insurance
• Building and fixing companies inside large organizations
• Leading billion-dollar growth and turnarounds
• Founding Sunstone Management Advisors to help companies “go beyond”

[00:11:20] – The Core Question: Who Changed Everything?

• Mike credits multiple people throughout his career
• His father’s timeless lessons: always out-earn your pay, give 51% in partnerships, don’t spend other people’s money
• The difference between personal and professional relationships

[00:17:20] – A Defining Mentor

• A boss who demanded results: “There is no try—only do or do not.”
• Learning empowerment: good people find a way to make things happen
• Leadership redefined: you’re not the star, your people are
• Servant leadership as the true source of influence

[00:24:20] – The Massachusetts Miracle

• Taking over a struggling sales office on the verge of closure
• Inspiring 50+ team members to work beyond their roles
• “Doctor Storm”: rallying everyone around one mission
• Grew market share 30% and delivered record earnings despite no extra resources

[00:27:55] – Lessons From a Lifetime of Leadership

• Diversify your career early to build range and resilience
• Relationships are built on meeting obligations, not just camaraderie
• Empowerment and service unlock hidden potential in teams
• The long-term compounding value of showing up with discipline and grit

Key Quotes

“Out-earn your pay. In an equal partnership, give 51%.” — Mike Murphy

“Good people find a way to make things happen.” — Mike Murphy

“You’re not the star, your people are. Your job is to serve them.” — Mike Murphy

Connect with Mike Murphy

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mike-murphy

Website: sunstonemanagementadvisors.com

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What if losing everything became the very thing that unlocked your biggest growth?

In this episode, Joseph shares how he grew Empire into a $42M company, navigated private equity partnerships, reinvented himself during the pandemic, and built enduring business relationships with his wife and longtime partner Moses. His story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the compounding value of meaningful relationships.

With more than 20 years of experience in facilities management and construction, Joseph Scaretta has co-founded and scaled two national facility maintenance companies — exiting both, including his tenure as co-CEO of CS Hudson. Today, he’s challenging the status quo again with Mason Made, building innovative niche services and customer-focused team cultures

[00:04:40] – Setting Context: Mason Made

• Joseph introduces his current company, Mason Made.
• Focus areas: facilities management, construction, and software.
• Vision: solving gaps in data, infrastructure, and technology.

[00:07:04] – First Entrepreneurial Venture

• How Joseph met his business partner Moses.
• The leap from working at a small construction firm to starting Empire.
• Scaling Empire to $42M revenue and over 100 employees.

[00:09:44] – Growth, Sale, and Private Equity Lessons

• Selling Empire and transitioning into CS Hudson.
• Expanding into essential service industries (medical, storage, finance).
• Learning KPIs and data-driven operations from private equity.

[00:12:06] – Second Private Equity Experience

• Partnering with PE again to accelerate growth.
• Key lessons: asking better questions, knowing when visions diverge.
• Transition into Mason Made with a stronger foundation.

[00:14:05] – The Power of Relationships

• Kevin poses the core podcast question: who changed Joseph’s journey?
• Joseph highlights his wife Stephanie as his greatest support.
• Her resilience, career pivot into nursing, and parallel journey with him.

[00:18:01] – Honoring His Business Partner, Moses

• How Moses taught Joseph the industry from scratch.
• Why partnerships accelerate success (when done right).
• 20+ years together, across 3 companies and multiple acquisitions.

[00:24:27] – A Defining Client Story

• Landing Sprint/Nextel as a client.
• Moses’ cautious approach prevented overpromising.
• How balance in partnership protected their reputation and fueled growth.

[00:27:55] – Lessons From 20+ Years in Business

• Why humility and asking for help matter.
• Recognizing when to pivot and reinvent.
• The long-term value of nurturing both personal and professional relationships.

Key Quotes “Relationships and referrals have gotten us to where we are today.” — Joseph Scaretta

“Whatever I could dream, Moses could build.” — Joseph Scaretta

“Having a partner with complementary skills accelerates everything tenfold.” — Joseph Scaretta

Connect with Joseph Scaretta

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/josephscaretta Website: masonmade.coEmail: joe@masonmade.co

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What if focusing on fewer services and leaning into the right relationships could transform your business and generate millions in ROI?

On this episode, our host Kevin Thompson talks with Corey Morris, CEO of Voltage and author of The Digital Marketing Success Plan. Corey has spent 20 years in the marketing industry, navigating a career that began in traditional advertising and evolved into digital marketing leadership. Through a succession plan, Corey became the sole owner of Voltage, where he reshaped the agency from a generalist “do-it-all” shop into a focused powerhouse specializing in SEO, paid search ads, and website creation.

In this conversation, Corey shares how mastermind groups and peer communities gave him tough love and clarity, pushing him to double down on what he and his agency do best. He highlights how intentional relationships shaped his path as a leader and fueled his company’s growth. Corey also recounts a standout client success story—how his team helped a logistics firm turn a $77,000 investment into $1.2 million in revenue.

Listeners will gain powerful insights into niching down, building stronger networks, and the ROI of authentic, meaningful relationships in business.

02:18 – Guest Introduction: Corey Morris • Shout-out to Jessica and the Podcast Guest platform for the introduction. • Corey shares his excitement and context for the conversation. • Kevin sets the stage for Corey’s story of career and relationships.

03:26 – Corey’s Journey: From Project Manager to CEO • Early career pivot into digital marketing before it became mainstream. • Hands-on learning of SEO, HTML, and search strategies in the early 2000s. • Transition into agency leadership through a succession plan.

07:18 – Challenges and Strategic Decisions • The tension between being a generalist agency vs. specializing. • Tough choice to focus only on SEO, paid search, and websites. • Letting go of “good” work to focus on the “best” opportunities.

12:04 – The Importance of Relationships and Community • The role of mastermind groups and Agency Management Institute. • Peer feedback that pushed Corey to niche down and gain clarity. • Value of accountability, candid feedback, and tough love.

20:33 – Client Success Stories and ROI • Logistics firm case study: $77K investment generated $1.2M in revenue. • Importance of measurable ROI in digital marketing. • Turning lessons into the START Planning framework and his book.

23:56 – Sharing His Process and Book • Introduction to The Digital Marketing Success Plan. • Free tools and resources available at thedmsp.com. • Why Corey focuses on “helping, not selling.”

29:18 – Conclusion and Final Invitation • Kevin highlights Corey’s authenticity and client-first approach. • Corey’s reminder: every business needs a clear digital plan. • Invitation to connect with Corey and build meaningful relationships.

Key Quotes “Sometimes tough love is exactly what we need to get clarity.” — Corey Morris “We had to let go of good work to focus on the best work.” — Corey Morris “Relationships aren’t just connections—they’re lifelines for clarity, accountability, and growth.” — Corey Morris

Connect with Corey Morris Website: thedmsp.comAgency: voltage.digitalLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coreymorris Email: corey@thedmsp.com

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What if the right words, shared with the right people, could create $30 million in just 30 minutes?

On this episode our host Kevin Thompson talks with Juliana Balinbin Stachurski, a conversion copywriter, consultant, and speaker known for helping entrepreneurs combat “random acts of marketing” through strong direct response copy. Juliana is a Ray Edwards International Certified Direct Response Copywriter and has guided multiple organizations through hyper-growth, leveraging technology and copy to drive rapid conversions.

In this conversation, Juliana shares how mentors like Ray Edwards and Sarah Morrison shaped her career and opened doors to six-figure opportunities. She recounts a standout moment where her carefully crafted presentation helped a client generate $30 million in just 30 minutes. Juliana also opens up about her heartfelt involvement in Maui’s 2020 fire relief efforts, where she used her communication skills and relationships to mobilize aid for displaced families, including her own relatives.

Listeners will be inspired by Juliana’s commitment to building intentional, impactful relationships, and her mission to turn scattered marketing into clear, strategic, and measurable growth systems.

01:54 – Invitation to the Preferred Partnership Community • Kevin invites listeners to the Preferred Partnership Community. • Notes it has created millions through introductions. • Positioned as an exclusive, by-invitation network for entrepreneurs.

02:41 – Guest Introduction: Juliana Stachurski • Juliana was referred by Amanda Day after Kevin sought a copywriter. • Kevin immediately saw her fit and invited her to the podcast. • Juliana expresses her excitement to share her journey.

04:34 – Juliana’s Journey: From Opera to Marketing • First “marketing gig” at 16 with Seattle Opera donor events. • Transitioned into teaching LSAT/MCAT prep, but needed more income for her big family. • Experience in early online teaching prepared her for internet marketing and copywriting.

05:46 – Combating Random Acts of Marketing • Many businesses succeed quickly but lack systems and structure. • Juliana helps them build repeatable processes and measure results. • Her mission: end “random acts of marketing” by aligning efforts with strategy.

09:43 – Juliana’s Impactful Client Success Stories • Writes high-converting sales pages and campaigns. • Surreal moment: hearing her own copy quoted back to her in a wellness class. • Biggest win: client generated $30M in 30 minutes from her presentation.

13:49 – The Importance of Right Relationships • Kevin emphasizes success came from copy + reputation + right audience. • Collaboration allows results neither could achieve alone. • Reinforces the theme: right relationships multiply impact.

15:38 – Honoring Key Influences: Ray Edwards and Sarah Morrison • Ray Edwards taught Juliana the PASTOR copywriting framework. • His lessons allowed her to financially support her family of 10. • Sarah Morrison provided six-figures in opportunities through introductions.

19:34 – Making a Difference: Maui Relief Efforts • After the 2020 Maui fires, 26 of Juliana’s relatives were displaced. • She acted as a liaison between local and national nonprofits. • Applied copywriting skills (stacking little “yeses”) to mobilize relief aid.

22:56 – Connecting with Juliana • Website: mercerfranklin.com (named after meaningful places in her life). • Also active on LinkedIn and Facebook. • Open to conversations and collaborations with entrepreneurs.

24:28 – Conclusion: Trust the Process • Big goals are reached by stacking little wins. • Encourages an attitude of “eager patience”—keep moving forward without rushing. • Kevin thanks Juliana for her wisdom and powerful stories.

Key Quotes “I’m on a mission to help businesses combat random acts of marketing.” — Juliana Stachurski “Big goals are reached by stacking little wins—what I call eager patience.” — Juliana Stachurski “The right relationships allow us to achieve far more together than we ever could on our own.” — Juliana Stachurski

Connect with Juliana Stachurski Website: www.mercerfranklin.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/juliana-stachurski Facebook: facebook.com/juliana.stachurski

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What if publishing your book didn’t have to take months or even years but could be done in just weeks, without losing your authentic voice?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson talks with Dan Curran, founder of Chapters, a company reimagining the future of publishing by combining next-generation AI with human editorial excellence. Dan shares his entrepreneurial journey from running marketing agencies and doing M&A deals to launching a publishing platform that removes industry gatekeeping and makes writing a book enjoyable and accessible.

Along the way, Dan honors three people who profoundly shaped his career and life: Jason, a business partner who taught him the importance of preparation and financial fluency; Carla Boyd, who showed him patience and empathy in relationships; and John Ruhlin, whose generosity and networking acumen inspired Chapters’ launch.

Dan also shares moving client stories from a cancer doctor turned patient whose memoir will touch countless lives, to a Marine quadruple amputee whose words reveal unexpected poetry.

Whether you’ve dreamed of writing a book or want to hear how relationships open doors you never saw coming, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and human connection.

[00:00 – 03:00] From Storytelling to Marketing Success

• Dan’s lifelong fascination with documentaries and storytelling.
• Launching a marketing agency in 2000 and working with major brands like Anheuser-Busch.

[03:01 – 08:30] Meeting John Ruhlin & Building Chapters

• How EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization) fostered deep connections.
• The early inspiration for Chapters and John Ruhlin’s role in its launch.

[08:31 – 14:30] Client Stories that Inspire

• A renowned cancer doctor’s personal battle with breast cancer.
• How telling her story will transform her work with patients.

[14:31 – 19:00] From the Battlefield to the Page

• A Marine quadruple amputee’s powerful memoir.
• How Chapters’ AI + interview process makes book creation faster and more authentic.

[19:01 – 28:10] Honoring Jason: Lessons in Preparation & Financial Clarity

• Learning to “speak banker” in high-stakes meetings.
• The lasting impact of understanding numbers and preparation.

[28:11 – 33:40] Honoring Carla Boyd: Patience, Empathy, and Seeing Everyone as “Misfit Toys”

• How Carla’s perspective shifted Dan’s approach to people and business.

[33:41 – 36:40] The Small Network That Changes Everything

• How a few key relationships are connected and drive massive impact.

[36:41 – 40:30] How Chapters Works & Why It’s Different

• Turning voice conversations into manuscripts in 10–14 weeks.
• Why human stories will be even more valuable in the AI era.

[40:31 – 41:16] Final Thoughts on AI and Life

• Dan’s perspective on embracing AI without fear.
• Encouragement to share your story for future generations.

Key Quotes

“The world of AI will make us crave human stories even more.” — Dan Curran “Being prepared is the ultimate sign of respect in business.” — Dan Curran “We’re all just misfit toys trying to figure it out.” — Dan Curran

Connect with Dan Curran Website: www.chapters.ioLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/currandan Facebook: facebook.com/CurranDan

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What if the key to building a thriving, multi-million-dollar company was rooted not in chasing profits, but in honoring people, purpose, and relationships?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson talks with Shelly Berkowitz, founder of BrightStar Care and now CEO of Founder 2 Founder. She shares how a personal struggle to find quality home care for her grandmother in 2001 inspired her to create BrightStar Care, a company combining medical and non-medical services under one roof.

Over two decades, Shelly grew the brand to more than 400 locations, serving thousands of families weekly while navigating the challenges of single motherhood, rapid franchising, and leading through COVID-19. When it came time to sell, she discovered that 80% of the process was emotional. Her insistence on finding a buyer who valued culture and quality over just money led her to Peak Rock Capital, where she remains a shareholder and board chair.

Today, through Founder 2 Founder, Shelly helps other entrepreneurs prepare for scaling or selling, offering the kind of empathetic guidance she wished she’d had. This conversation is about vision, grit, and the relationships—from mentors and early franchisees to her husband that helped shape every step of her journey.

[00:00 - 02:30] Introduction: Kevin Sets the Stage

• Kevin introduces the Million Dollar Relationships podcast and its mission
• Shoutout to the Quoted platform for connecting him with Shelly

[02:31 - 10:55] Founding BrightStar Care

• Personal experience seeking better home care for her grandmother in 2001
• Creating a company that offered both medical and non-medical care under one roof
• Commitment to paying caregivers above market rates

[10:56 - 15:50] Rapid Growth and Franchising

• Success in the first three years leads Shelly to franchise BrightStar Care in 2005
• Expansion to 450+ locations, serving 10–20K families weekly, employing 25K caregivers and 5K nurses

[15:51 - 20:36] Navigating COVID and Shifting Roles

• Balancing business demands with raising twin boys, one with autism
• Decision to step back from day-to-day operations and focus on family

[20:37 - 28:13] The Sale Process — and Walking Away

• Near-sale to a buyer who didn’t align with her values
• Choosing Peak Rock Capital for cultural fit and quality focus
• Lessons learned: most of the sale process is emotional, not just transactional

[28:14 - 41:18] Relationships that Shaped the Journey

• Mentors like Julie Beachy and Gloria Jean Ko
• Early franchisees who took a chance and helped shape the brand
• Key employees who continue her mission
• The personal relationship with her husband Sean that gave her strength during tough decisions

Key Quotes

• “It’s never been about money. It’s been about doing the right things for families, caregivers, and franchisees.” — Shelly Berkowitz
• “Eighty percent of selling my company was emotional, not transactional.” — Shelly Berkowitz
• “If you’re not ready to be done, don’t sell. There are other ways to take chips off the table.” — Shelly Berkowitz

Connect with Shelly Berkowitz Website: founder2founder.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shellysunberkowitz Facebook: facebook.com/shelly.sun.3 BrightStar Founder Page: brightstarfounder.com

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What if the key to building a multi-million dollar business had nothing to do with chasing profits and everything to do with genuine relationships?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson sits down with entrepreneur, author, and mentor Joel Gandara, who shares his incredible journey from escaping communist Cuba to building and selling a seven-figure apparel empire, all by focusing on people first.

Joel’s story is about grit, hustle, and the unstoppable power of human connection. Born in Havana, Cuba, Joel and his family emigrated to the United States during the massive 1980 Mariel Boatlift. Growing up poor in California fueled a relentless drive to succeed. From selling trading cards and candy to buying goods at garage sales and selling them at flea markets, Joel was always looking for his big break. That moment came when he discovered Jockey underwear samples at a garage sale, a discovery that years later turned into a multi-million dollar apparel business.

By the age of 38, Joel had semi-retired, stepping back from the long work weeks to enjoy life with his wife and kids while coaching others to create their own success. In this episode, he shares how powerful relationships shaped every step of his journey.

[00:00 - 02:45] Introduction: Kevin Sets the Stage • Kevin introduces the Million Dollar Relationships podcast. • He talks about the power of relationships and mentions Tribe for Leaders. • Joel Gandara is welcomed to the show.

[02:46 - 04:45] Who Joel Is Today • Joel shares what he does now: running men’s and women’s personal growth programs, writing a book, and leading 31-day challenges. • Talks about how the programs are changing lives, from improving marriages to helping grandparents raise grandkids better.

[04:46 - 08:15] The Cuba Story: From Labor Camps to Miami • Joel recounts being born in Cuba under communism, where his father spent 13 years in a forced labor camp. • Shares the terrifying 12-hour Mariel boat trip to the US, including four hours in dangerous storms, before settling in California.

[08:16 - 11:10] Early Hustles: Cards, Chocolates, Flea Markets • As a kid, Joel sells Garbage Pail Kids cards, turning pennies into dollars. • In high school, he sells chocolates and starts doing garage sales. • He finds Jockey underwear samples at a garage sale, buys them for $1 each, and flips them for $6 at flea markets.

[11:11 - 13:20] Building Brands and Facing Betrayal • Learned about eBay in 1999, started importing and distributing international brands. • A supplier breaks trust by going direct to Joel’s clients, pushing him to start his own brand. • His first brand hit over $1 million in retail sales in about 13 months.

[13:21 - 15:50] How Wilfredo in Colombia Changed Everything • Joel shares reading The Secret and then meeting Wilfredo, who owned a factory in Colombia. • Invests $80,000 in his first order — which turns out to be Wilfredo’s first production run too. • This relationship builds the foundation for Joel’s multi-brand empire.

[15:51 - 21:00] Buying 14 Businesses Thanks to Handwritten Notes • Because of Wilfredo, Joel grows into multiple brands and shifts from wholesale to owning ecommerce sites. • Buys a small ecommerce business that leads to 14 acquisitions, almost all through relationships. • He shares how handwritten cards, personal follow-ups, and genuine care made competitors want to sell to him.

[21:01 - 33:04] The Power of Relationship Capital • Joel and Kevin dive deeper into how relationships were the key to every major opportunity. • Discuss how small gestures like handwritten notes create lasting impressions. • Kevin relates it to his own experience sending handwritten notes and overnight checks, which led to referrals and stronger partnerships.

Key Quotes “Most bad things in my life were just precursors to something great that would come.” — Joel Gandara “Relationships are everything. I’ve never had a negative reaction from checking in, caring, and sending handwritten notes.” — Joel Gandara “We were poor, but my parents taught me to live simply and save. Those habits helped me build everything.” — Joel Gandara

Connect with Joel Gandara Book & 31-Day Challenge: 31dailychallenges.comWebsite: JoelGandara.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joelgandara Facebook: facebook.com/joel.gandara.3 Instagram: @joelgandara

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What if the secret to skyrocketing your sales had nothing to do with tactics and everything to do with trust?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson sits down with Ari Galper, the world’s number one authority on trust-based selling and founder of the Unlock The Game methodology. Ari shares a powerful, real-life story of betrayal during a sales meeting that transformed his approach and led to the creation of a heart-centered sales movement focused on trust, not pressure.

For over 20 years, Ari has helped coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs eliminate rejection and stop chasing prospects by building trust from the very first conversation.

Ari is the author of seven best-selling books and a recognized thought leader featured in CEO Magazine, Forbes, Inc., and Financial Advisor Magazine. He is also the CEO and founder of AriAI, a 24/7 trust-based selling growth partner that acts as a “third brain” in your business, embedding trust into every conversation and decision. In this episode, Ari also honors his son Toby, who has Down Syndrome, as the inspiration behind his heart-first philosophy that’s reshaping how business is done.

[00:00 - 02:30] The Origin Story: From Betrayal to Breakthrough • Ari recounts a sales call 20 years ago where, after accidentally hitting mute, he overheard prospects say, “Keep using him for more info, then buy cheaper.” • This moment exposed a fundamental dysfunction in selling and launched his mission to transform the sales process into one focused on truth and trust.

[02:31 - 06:30] What Trust-Based Selling Means • Ari describes creating Unlock The Game, a trust-based selling approach that flipped traditional sales on its head. • Explains why ghosting happens, not because of the solution but because people don’t trust your process. • Highlights that chasing prospects is a symptom of lacking trust.

[06:31 - 12:00] Language That Builds Trust, Not Pressure • Why you should never use the word “follow-up.” • Replace it with, “Do you have any feedback on our last conversation?” • Shows how language either pressures people or invites the truth, changing the entire dynamic of the relationship.

[12:01 - 18:30] Shifting from Pitching to Diagnosing • Ari unpacks his Doctor Framework, telling you to stop rapport-building chatter and start by exploring their problems deeply. • Offers questions like, “How long has this been a concern for you?” and “What have you done so far to address this?” • Emphasizes that trust is built when they feel truly understood, not when you start prescribing solutions.

[18:31 - 24:30] Real Results: Why Trust Works • Ari shares examples from clients in high-ticket, long sales cycle industries who stopped chasing and started closing quickly. • Explains how leading with trust gets people to say, “How can you help me?” which flips the traditional sales script.

[24:31 - 33:48] Honoring Influences and Lessons from Toby • Ari honors Dan Kennedy and Perry Marshall for shaping his understanding of marketing and systems. • Opens up about his son Toby, who has Down Syndrome, and how Toby taught him to be present, love without agenda, and lead with empathy. • “People don’t want your pitch. They want to know if they can trust you.”

Key Quotes “The goal is not the sale. The goal is the truth.” — Ari Galper “People don’t ghost you because of your price. They ghost you because they don’t trust you.” — Ari Galper “Stop delivering value before you’re paid. Stop selling. Start listening.” — Ari Galper

Connect with Ari Galper

Free Book: www.thetrustbook.comWebsite: www.unlockthegame.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/arigalper Facebook: facebook.com/arigalper

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What if the key to living out your true calling was hidden in the parts of your life you’ve overlooked?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson talks with Peter Awad, a 5-time founder, executive leadership coach, husband, father of 4, and follower of Christ. Peter is the founder of Whitestone Coaching, where he helps Christian businessmen unlock potential, eliminate self-limiting beliefs, and become leaders worth following.

Peter opens up about his journey from running multiple businesses to stepping into a higher calling. He shares how discovering his "superpowers" during a personal crisis in 2020 led to the creation of a coaching practice that now impacts entire companies and communities. Peter also honors two men, his coach Mike and his friend-turned-client Steve who played pivotal roles in helping him find clarity and courage.

[00:00 - 04:00] One of One: Identity and Impact • Peter and Kevin discuss the idea that imposter syndrome has no place when you realize you’re “one of one” • The conversation begins with Peter’s perspective on embracing your unique identity and why it matters • Kevin introduces the podcast and its focus on honoring the people who’ve shaped successful lives

[04:01 - 08:00] Purpose-Filled Coaching and Lasting Transformation • Peter introduces himself as a leadership coach for Christian businessmen • He explains how coaching helps scrape off the “muck” that keeps leaders stuck • Shares a powerful one-on-one coaching story where years of transformation happened in a single session

[08:01 - 17:30] From Crisis to Clarity • Peter recounts hitting a wall in 2020 and how his wife urged him to make a change • He started coaching with Mike, who helped him identify and embrace his lifelong superpowers • Peter realizes coaching has always been a part of who he is, he just hadn’t named it yet

[17:31 - 22:00] Honoring the People Who Opened Doors • Peter honors Mike (his coach) and Steve (his first client and biggest supporter) • Steve not only encouraged him but also actively helped generate excitement for his coaching • Peter reflects on the value of having people who believe in you before you believe in yourself

[22:01 - 25:30] One Moment That Changed Everything • A powerful story from coaching Steve’s staff: two team members share how the sessions helped them transition and retire with confidence • Peter reflects on the ripple effect of serving leaders and their communities • He expresses deep gratitude and humility: “Why do I get to do this?”

[25:31 - 29:30] Comparison, Confidence, and Authentic Influence • Peter and Kevin discuss how comparison is the thief of joy • Peter reinforces the truth: “You’re one of one,” and how knowing who you are eliminates imposter syndrome • Kevin adds that when we show up confidently, people respond to our energy and authenticity

[29:31 - 32:41] Final Thoughts and Encouragement • Peter urges leaders to slow down, get clear on their “why,” and build from purpose, not pressure • “Turn the lights on. Slow down. Look up. Get clear on your why”

Key Quotes: “Your superpowers are part of your calling, not just your occupation.” — Peter Awad “There’s no such thing as imposter syndrome when you’re one of one.” — Peter Awad “Turn the lights on. Slow down. Look up. Get some clarity.” — Peter Awad Connect with Peter Awad

Website: www.whitestonecoach.comFree Resource: Text Whitestone to 55444 to receive “5 Secrets to Leading Biblically While Growing Revenue” Email: peter@whitestonecoach.com Facebook: facebook.com/thepeterawad LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/peterjawad

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What would your life look like if you truly embraced every change that came your way and surrounded yourself with the right people to help you through it?

In this episode, our host Kevin Thompson talks with Jim “Soni” Sonefeld, drummer of the legendary band Hootie & the Blowfish. Jim shares how he went from chasing dreams on the soccer field to becoming part of one of the top-selling rock bands of all time. As the songwriter behind hits like “Hold My Hand”, Jim helped launch Hootie & the Blowfish into worldwide fame with their debut album Cracked Rear View, which became the 9th best-selling album in U.S. history.

Jim opens up about his personal battles with alcohol addiction and how he found hope, healing, and a new purpose through faith and recovery. Today, as he gears up to release his fourth EP Remember Tomorrow and his memoir Swimming With The Blowfish: Hootie, Healing, and One Hell of a Ride, Jim reflects on the relationships that carried him through it all—his family, his bandmates, mentors, and community.

This conversation is a real look at humility, growth, and why trying to do it all alone is never the answer.

[00:01 - 07:00] The Power of Being Connected • Jim and Kevin connected through their friend Jeremiah. • Trusting mutual relationships can open doors you never expect. • Jim shares why slowing down and being grateful changes everything.

[07:01 - 21:00] From Soccer to Drums • Jim talks about growing up curious, rebellious, and learning from his parents. • Music and sports shaped his youth, but drinking started early too. • Those choices followed him for years, setting the stage for future struggles.

[21:01 - 32:00] Joining Hootie & the Blowfish • Jim found his way into Hootie & the Blowfish in college. • They hustled like entrepreneurs, touring with little money but big dreams. • Everything changed after David Letterman heard “Hold My Hand.”

[32:01 - 39:00] The Struggles Behind the Fame • Sudden fame brought tours and millions of albums sold. • But Jim wasn’t prepared and leaned harder on alcohol to cope. • Eventually, he realized he needed help and couldn’t keep hiding.

[39:01 - 51:00] Finding Recovery and Giving Back • A 12-step program and honest friends helped him heal. • Jim learned to let go of what he couldn’t control in life and music. • Now at 60, he tours again with deep gratitude for a second chance.

[51:01 - 56:00] What’s Next for Jim • Jim loves speaking, sharing stories of music, mistakes, and redemption. • He hopes his journey inspires others to face their own struggles. • His biggest lesson: don’t do life alone—the right people change everything.

Follow the links below to check out Jim Soni Sonefeld’s memoir and music: Swimming With The Blowfish: Hootie, Healing, and One Hell of a RideJim’s Music

Connect with Jim: FacebookWebsite

Key Quotes: “Whatever you’re doing, don’t try and do it alone.” — Jim Sonefeld “If we have anything in common, it’s that we’ll make mistakes and that’s not the end, that’s the beginning.” — Jim Sonefeld

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What would your business look like if it were truly designed to support the life you want to live, not the other way around?

In this episode of the Million Dollar Relationships podcast, host Kevin Thompson speaks with Chris Williams, founder of Group Coach Nation. Chris shares the intentional choices that led him from 12-hour workdays to a 12-hour workweek, all while making a bigger impact and spending more time with his family. The conversation dives into his entrepreneurial journey, the mentors who changed his life, and the framework he teaches coaches and consultants who want to build group coaching programs or masterminds. This episode is a clear look at why the “right relationships” matter—and how aligning your business with your lifestyle can change everything.

[00:01 - 07:00] Right Connections Change Everything

• The significance of mutual introductions in creating high-trust relationships
• Why Kevin trusted Chris before even meeting him, because of their mutual connection
• How the right relationship can immediately open doors and create opportunity

[07:01 - 14:22] Defining What You Want

• How Chris uses calendar and income constraints to shape business strategy
• Why defining time and financial margins simplifies decision-making
• The importance of balancing business growth with personal priorities

[14:23 - 21:09] Building Something That Lasts

• Chris’s journey from financial services to marketing to coaching
• Why he transitioned to group coaching models
• The process that took him from burnout to freedom

[21:10 - 29:46] When Clients Win, You Win Bigger

• How Group Coach Nation clients use their programs to create deep impact
• The importance of building both revenue and transformation
• Examples of clients achieving financial breakthroughs or social change

[29:47 - 37:18] The People Who Changed Everything

• Chris opens up about a personal moment that nearly broke him, and who helped him back
• How his mentor Aaron Walker has shaped his current business success
• Why choosing the right support system changes your direction entirely

Connect with Chris:

Chris's new book launches July 1st

The Business Coach's Guide to Group Coaching: How to Create a Business That Frees Up Your Time, Makes More Money, and Turns Your Clients Into Raving Fans

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F7T8DRNQ?dplnkId=e653ff0c-c43d-4518-a73c-8aff0307c4c9&nodl=1

Key Quotes:

"You don't have to be the smartest person in the room. You just have to build a process that works." - Chris Williams

"Execution is what creates results. But doing the right work is what creates freedom." - Chris Williams

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What happens when a mission to serve others becomes the catalyst for both personal and business breakthroughs? In this episode, Kevin speaks with Whitney Sewell, founder of LifeBridge Capital, about how adopting a purpose bigger than business changed the trajectory of his life. Whitney shares his journey from serving in Iraq to becoming a federal agent, then pivoting into real estate investing to fund adoptions—starting with his own. He explains how relationships have opened doors, transformed his mindset, and enabled him to support over 50 families through adoption grants. Whitney's story reveals the ripple effects of living with conviction, building strong connections, and leading with mission-driven clarity.

[00 - 04:00] From Small Town to Big Vision * The significance of asking mentors to shape your growth early on * Why military service shifted Whitney’s mindset for life * The importance of aligning your career with personal convictions

[04:01 – 08:30] A Life-Changing Trip to Roanoke * Why hearing about global orphan statistics sparked immediate action * The importance of responding to nudges without overanalyzing * How early adoption challenges led to long-term mission clarity

[08:31 - 13:00] Turning Sacrifice Into Strategy * The need for an honest self-assessment of your long-term direction * Why selling their dream home was a turning point * How setting a clear “why” fuels resilience in business

[13:01 - 18:30] Relationships That Scale Impact * How mission-based networking creates deeper bonds * The importance of sharing personal values before pitching business * Why mentorship at the right time can reshape your entire path

[18:31 - 26:53] When Relationships Become the Bridge * The significance of being visible in the lives of those who can help * How an online fundraiser through a friend returned a major loss * What it looks like to steward trust and use influence to serve others

Connect with Whitney:

Website: https://www.whitneysewell.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-sewell

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitneysewellva

Key Quotes:

“We would not be where we're at if not for relationships—not just in business, but spiritually and personally.” - Whitney Sewell

“If we're going to grow, we've got to make decisions others aren't willing to make. Only then can we give in ways others can’t.” - Whitney Sewell

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What happens when one invitation around a firepit turns into a global movement?

In this episode of the Million Dollar Relationships podcast, host Kevin Thompson sits down with Stephen Reiter, founder of Right Turn Media and a key figure in the Holy Smokes Club—a global community where faith, friendship, and honest conversations thrive. Stephen shares how childhood passions led to a career in radio, the personal impact of losing his wife during COVID, and the powerful connections formed through cigars and meaningful relationships. His story is one of resilience, purpose, and the kind of influence that only comes from authentic connection.

[00:01 - 06:58] From Backyard Cassette Tapes to Global Broadcasts

• The importance of rediscovering childhood passions
• Why audio storytelling continues to shape media
• The significance of building a production company grounded in purpose

[06:59 - 12:38] The Birth of Holy Smokes Club

• The significance of structure and values in growing community
• Why the Holy Smokes Club became a haven for authenticity
• The importance of vulnerability and safe spaces in faith-based circles

[12:39 - 18:30] Loss, Purpose, and the Never Alone Project

• Why presence at a hospital bedside matters
• The emotional toll of isolation during illness
• The need for legislation to protect patient connection

[18:31 - 24:42] The Net Weaver: Impact through Introduction

• The power of intentional connectors
• How one relationship can unlock a life mission
• The importance of mentors who lead with humility

[24:43 - 35:41] Relationships that Last: A Ripple Effect

• What it means to create long-term community impact
• Why slowing down creates space for honest dialogue
• The significance of legacy through service and storytelling

Connect with Stephen:

Websites: http://www.neveralonepandemic.org

https://www.rightturn.media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reitersteve

Key Quotes:

“Some of the most impactful conversations I’ve ever had started around a fire pit with people I barely knew.” - Stephen Reiter

“Stories are what connect us as human beings. It’s not data, it’s not credentials—it’s a story.” - Stephen Reiter

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Can clearly defining your values be the difference between a business that struggles and one that thrives?

In this episode, Dan Truex, co-founder of Owners Guard, a fast-growing security company redefining industry standards, shares the path from military and law enforcement service to entrepreneurship—and how redefining personal success, aligning values, and building powerful relationships shaped every step. With humility and clarity, Dan explains how a partnership rooted in shared values and mutual trust became the foundation for scalable impact, even earning multiple spots on the Inc. 5000 list. He also opens up about the deep importance of family, the lessons of growing through discomfort, and how a simple act of buying a grandchild a bike became a guiding principle for company culture.

[00:01 - 06:19] Redefining Success

• The importance of personal fulfillment over traditional career milestones
• How defining success led to entrepreneurship
• Why introspection was key to starting something meaningful

[06:20 - 12:38] Building from Zero

• Launching a physical security company with no business background
• The financial and emotional challenges of year one
• Why passion and grit helped them grow across multiple states

[12:39 - 18:56] The Power of Partnership

• How values alignment with his co-founder shaped every decision
• The role of ego (or the lack of it) in healthy partnerships
• Why trust in both character and competence is essential

[18:57 - 24:33] Defining Your Values

• Dan breaks down how conflicting values cause decision paralysis
• How he identified misaligned priorities in his own life
• The overlooked practice of writing down your core values

[24:34 - 29:18] “We Buy the Bike” – Culture in Action

• The story of how a fallen employee inspired a core company value
• Why “We Buy the Bike” became more than just a catchphrase
• The role of values in everyday leadership

Connect with Dan:

Website: https://www.guardlogic.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-truex-50871a13a

Key Quotes:

“If you don’t know your values, you won’t know who you align with.” - Dan Truex

“When you and your business partner align on values, decision-making becomes simple—even when it’s hard.” - Dan Truex

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What if the support you need is waiting on the other side of vulnerability? In this powerful episode of the Million Dollar Relationships podcast, Kevin sits down with Serena Mastin, founder of Pulse Marketing and author of Exposed: You Can’t Heal When You Hide. Serena shares the raw, personal story behind building her agency—from early success to navigating the grief of losing her husband to suicide in the wake of addiction, debt, and collapse. Through her journey, she discovered the critical role of community, the strength of asking for help, and how the people around you can carry you when you can’t walk alone.

[00:01 - 05:46] Leaving Corporate, Building From Scratch

• The significance of Serena’s mother’s encouragement to start her business
• Why Serena’s husband quit his job to bet on her
• What the early success masked behind the scenes

[05:47 - 10:21] Behind Closed Doors: The Cost of Hiding

• The importance of recognizing personal breakdowns as turning points
• How the burden of pretending can silently destroy a leader
• Why reaching out is the only path forward during extreme hardship

[10:22 - 15:38] The Memoir That Changed Everything

• Why Serena wrote Exposed despite fear of judgment
• What happened when she decided not to hide anymore
• The significance of pushing through personal discomfort for impact

[15:39 - 20:53] The Power of People Who Show Up

• The role Serena’s team played in keeping the agency afloat
• The impact of her mentor Marshall’s challenge to stop being a victim
• Why leaders must develop others before expecting support in return

[20:54 - 25:55] The Ripple Effect of Giving and Receiving

• The need to shift from giver-only to receiver, too
• The importance of trust when referring and collaborating
• What Marshall’s brand ambassadorship unlocked for Serena’s future

Connect with Serena:

Websites: http://www.serenamastin.com

http://www.heartofcreative.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/serenamastin

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worthyoflove2020

Key Quotes:

“You don’t have to set yourself on fire to keep others warm.” - Serena Mastin

“I wouldn’t be here today without my team. When I couldn’t stand, they stood for me.” - Serena Mastin

“Once I let down that veil of vulnerability, people showed up. They just needed to know I needed them.” - Serena Masti

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What if the key to transforming your financial future isn’t a new tactic, but a deeper relationship—with someone who’s already solved the problem you’re facing?

In this episode of the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast, Kevin Thompson speaks with Noah Rosenfarb, a third-generation CPA who helps successful entrepreneurs drastically reduce their tax burdens. Noah shares how a single connection and a viral moment within the Entrepreneurs’ Organization led him to build a business serving founders earning $1M+ in net income. He opens up about his philosophy of being “rich beyond money,” why he believes entrepreneurs are the real heroes of society, and how his wife has shaped both his personal growth and professional success. From tax-saving structures to legacy-minded parenting, Noah's perspective challenges listeners to rethink how relationships and values shape long-term wealth.

[00:01 - 04:37] | From Retirement to Reinvention

• The significance of sharing knowledge organically with peers
• Why helping others prompted a return to business
• What led Noah to create a team-based model to support entrepreneurs

[04:38 - 08:53] | A Tax Strategy That Changed a Life

• How Noah helped a client eliminate capital gains taxes
• The importance of strategic structures in financial planning
• Why clarity around goals led to lifestyle upgrades and peace of mind

[08:54 - 12:22] | Why Entrepreneurs Are the Real Heroes

• How Noah views entrepreneurs as drivers of innovation
• Why he believes business owners allocate capital better than governments
• What motivates him to support their financial efficiency

[12:23 - 16:48] | The Power of a Life Partner

• Why meeting his wife was the most impactful relationship in his life
• How Amanda influenced his philosophy of living “rich beyond money”
• What their parenting decisions reflect about aligned values

[16:49 - 20:52] | Network as Leverage

• Why Noah now sees his network as his greatest asset
• How giving value without expectation pays off
• Why strong relationships create better problem-solving

Connect with Noah:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noah.rosenfarb

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahrosenfarb

Websites: http://www.wealthrive.com

http://www.talkabouttax.com

Honoring: His wife

Key Quotes:

“If I can help entrepreneurs create more income, I know they’ll reinvest it to innovate, hire, and impact others.” - Noah Rosenfarb

“Your network really does become your net worth—I'm just one phone call away from a solution to any problem.” - Noah Rosenfarb

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What happens when your personal mission becomes the foundation of your business strategy and legacy?

In this episode of Million Dollar Relationships, Kevin sits down with entrepreneur and visionary Sam Vandervalk to explore how mission, personal growth, and relationships shape business success. Sam shares his evolution from fishing guide to multi-business founder, revealing how SEO, hospitality, and systems thinking propelled his ventures forward. The conversation dives deep into the purpose behind Sam’s newest project—an AI-driven adventure booking platform—and his passion for experiential mastermind retreats that help entrepreneurs clarify their purpose and legacy. Through his journey, Sam underscores the importance of meaningful relationships and staying grounded in a larger mission.

[00:01 - 05:14] A Solid Start and the Power of Relationships

• Why relationship-building platforms like Interview Valet create opportunities
• The importance of being introduced by people who understand your mission
• How Kevin identifies guests aligned with his podcast values

[05:15 - 10:37] From Salmon to SEO: Building a Business the Hard Way

• What drove Sam to launch a fishing business while still in college
• How early SEO wins helped scale his company
• The significance of testing bold guarantees in client service

[10:38 - 15:57] Product Innovation and Vertical Integration

• Why offering full-package fishing experiences changed the game
• How controlling accommodations helped optimize customer flow
• The importance of leveraging digital tools for long-term growth

[15:58 - 20:00] | Adventure Mastermind and Defining Your Mission

• What makes experiential masterminds different from typical retreats
• How Sam ties legacy into his business vision
• The need for entrepreneurs to define a mission others can carry forward

[20:21 - 26:15] | Legacy, Systems, and Growth Through Relationships

• Why personal development is crucial for leadership
• The role of Sam’s brother Ray in shaping his business thinking
• How relationship-driven decisions can lead to long-term impact

Connect with Sam:

Website: https://www.SamVandervalk.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samvandervalk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sam.vandervalk.5

Honoring: His brother Ray

Key Quotes:

“If I passed away today, someone else has to carry my mission.” - Sam Vandervalk

“When you have a mission and a vision, and you convey that to the right people, they will run with it.” - Kevin Thompson

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How can the most meaningful business breakthroughs start with a simple, genuine conversation?

In this insightful episode, Kristen Nolan, a powerhouse connector from Interview Valet, opens up about her journey from hospitality and sales to becoming a vital bridge between high-performing entrepreneurs and podcast audiences. She shares how a deep respect for connection, service, and genuine curiosity has shaped her mission, not just to book guests, but to build meaningful relationships that spark growth. This episode isn't just about podcasting; it's about the human stories behind real relationships and the quiet power of thoughtful introductions.

[00:01 - 04:30] | Matchmaker Mindset

• How Kristen curates connections, not just bookings
• Why matching values matters in podcast guesting
• The importance of chemistry between the host and the guest

[04:31 - 08:30] | When Life Redirects You

• Why Kristen returned to work with a purpose
• The significance of blending family and fulfillment
• What pushed her to re-embrace her ambition

[08:31 - 12:30] | A Connection That Changed Lives

• How one intro led to deep friendship and growth
• Why organic relationships have a lasting impact
• The need to view every connection as a chance to grow

[12:31 - 16:30] | Beyond Transactions

• The importance of giving over getting
• How generosity opens unexpected doors
• Why trust builds a better business

[16:30 - 19:11] The Ripple Effect of One Introduction

• How small actions spark big change
• Why personal bonds fuel real success
• The significance of being the connector, not the closer

Connect with Kristen:

Website: https://www.interviewvalet.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbnolan

Key Quotes:

“Do not make podcast guesting transactional. The real opportunity begins after the recording stops.” - Kristen Nolan

“When we lead with how we can help, the rest unfolds naturally—relationships, opportunities, all of it.” - Kristen Nolan

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Could your next breakthrough come not from working harder—but from surrendering control?

In this episode, Kevin speaks with entrepreneur and bestselling author Markus Kaulius, who shares his transformative journey from scaling a $170M supplement business to exiting it and stepping into a new life of listening, faith, and mentorship. Markus opens up about the internal reckoning that comes after achieving massive financial success and why fulfillment often lies beyond the metrics we chase. He also explores how realignment with God, authentic relationships, and focusing on “10 out of 10” experiences lead to deeper joy and purpose. This conversation moves beyond business to the heart of identity, legacy, and divine calling.

[00:01 - 09:00] — The Introduction That Changed Everything

• How a spirit-led compliment shifted Kevin’s perspective on his own gifts
• Why recognizing divine influence in our gifts changes how we use them
• The significance of asking for more of the Holy Spirit and actually listening

[09:01 – 18:49] — Letting Go of Identity Tied to Business

• Why the exit of a business often leads to unexpected emotional challenges
• The need to find identity beyond professional success
• The importance of honoring a divine “pause” before the next chapter unfolds

[18:50 - 27:34] — Choosing Authenticity and Alignment

• The importance of following connection over convenience in relationships
• How the scarcity mindset limits real growth and peace
• What it means to live in a state of daily divine assignment

[27:35 - 36:13] — Life as a Series of 10/10s

• What the 10/10 exercise reveals about true priorities
• Why most people mistake comfort or status for joy
• The significance of designing life around purpose-driven moments

[36:14 - 46:10] — From Divine Introduction to Seven Ventures

• Why fulfillment should start before financial success
• What Seven Ventures does to support entrepreneurs holistically
• The importance of mentorship that integrates purpose, faith, and entrepreneurship

Connect with Markus:

Website: https://www.playabiggergame.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markuskaulius

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markus.kaulius

Key Quotes:

“Get out of that mold. The stuff that makes you uniquely you… that’s exactly what the world needs.” - Markus Kaulius

“The more you lean into this, the more the Holy Spirit is going to continue to work through you.” - Markus Kaulius

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Can a single relationship reshape your business, your faith, and your future all at once?

In this episode, Hunter Hensley, co-founder of Simple Check and Free Life Funding, to explore how one introduction can set off a series of life-changing events. Hunter’s story begins in the world of blue-collar work and ends with building a fintech product that's transforming the coaching and dental industries. Along the way, he shares how a single connection led to meeting his wife, rekindling his faith, and creating a company that helps businesses filter for financially qualified leads with a soft credit check. Through it all, Hunter highlights the significance of relationships, from his business partner to his father—and how these ties have shaped everything.

[00:01 – 05:20] Paint Brushes to Purpose

• The importance of recognizing hidden opportunity in unexpected places
• How a Facebook ad rerouted Hunter’s entire career path
• Why being open to new skills can fast-track major career pivots

[05:21 - 10:30] From Sales Rep to Partner

• The significance of mentorship and working closely with experienced leaders
• Investing long hours in a startup laid the foundation for long-term equity
• Why alignment in vision and trust can lead to unexpected partnerships

[10:31 - 15:44] Solving a $100K Problem with Simple Check

• How understanding the gap in dental financing led to product development
• The importance of using data to reduce friction in the sales process
• Why soft credit checks improve customer experience and practice revenue

[15:45 - 20:00] The Impact of Data-Driven Sales Strategy

• How integrating credit data into CRMs increased sales close rates
• Why unqualified leads drain resources—and how to filter them out
• The significance of using backend data to optimize ad performance

[20:01 - 24:51] The Relationship That Changed Everything

• How Hunter's business partner led him to faith, a spouse, and stability
• The need to acknowledge the unseen impact of relational investments
• What it means to build a life, not just a company, on strong connections

Connect with Hunter:

Website: https://simplecheck.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-hensley-172abb20b

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hunter.hensley.10

Key Quotes:

“It’s more about who you know at this point than what you know.” - Hunter Hensley

“We lost our lender overnight—that was 70% of our revenue gone. Relationships gave us a path forward.” - Hunter Hensley

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What if the most defining influence in your life came from someone you worked with as a teenager, and their impact continues to guide you decades later?

In this episode, Kevin Thompson talks with Bill Kasko about the man who unknowingly shaped his future: Ronnie Horton. From stocking shelves and bagging groceries to building a national staffing agency, Bill traces his entrepreneurial path back to a mentor who modeled integrity, leadership, and service. This conversation isn’t just about career paths—it’s about the deep, unseen ripple effects of influence and the importance of honoring those who showed us the way. Bill shares how his company now gives back through a scholarship in Ronnie’s name, and what it means to live a life grounded in values, gratitude, and quiet impact.

[00:01 - 07:30] Built on Relationships

• Why building personal relationships became the foundation of his business
• How one moment at the dinner table confirmed his mission
• The significance of placing people one at a time, not just filling roles

[07:31 - 14:15] A Foundation of Work Ethic

• How early jobs taught long-term leadership lessons
• Why privilege didn’t exempt him from hard work
• The significance of having structure and accountability from a young age

[14:16 - 21:30] The Mentor Who Changed It All

• Why a scholarship from a grocery chain became a life-changing opportunity
• How mentorship filled the gap left by family struggles
• What it means to listen more than you speak and lead by example

[21:31 - 28:35] Carrying the Legacy Forward

• Why it mattered to involve the Horton family in the legacy
• The significance of doing good without needing credit
• What happens when impact outlives the influencer

[28:36 - 35:58] Real Influence, Real Results

• How giving feedback—even when it’s hard—builds lasting respect
• What Bill learned about ego and staying focused on the bigger picture
• The significance of showing up early, staying late, and leading by presence

Connect with Bill:

Website: https://www.frontlinesourcegroup.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billkasko

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563315765616

Key Quotes:

“You take the skill of what you have—people, mentoring, growing—and figure out what can I parlay that into?” - Bill Kasko

“I'm the man I am today because of the influence of that one individual.” - Bill Kasko

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What if access to personal growth programs didn’t depend on having cash up front? In this episode, Ben Gower and Brandon Sowers, co-founders of Shiloh Finance, unpack how their fintech startup is breaking down the financial barriers to coaching and education by helping programs offer affordable payment plans without sacrificing upfront revenue. The conversation also dives into their shared history in the coaching and sales world, key mentors who changed their lives, and why relationships are central to everything they do.

[00:01 - 06:57] | Reframing Access to Coaching Programs

• How financing removes the need for internal collections by paying programs upfront
• Why offering terms like $400/month increases accessibility for prospective clients
• The significance of presenting coaching offers in the same way as car companies advertise

[06:58 - 12:00] | From Double-Wides to Network Shifts

• The importance of financial accessibility in expanding someone’s network and opportunities
• What happens when a person joins a coaching program and enters a new, more empowered community
• Why investors now see both social impact and strong returns through ShiFi’s funding model

[12:24 - 18:33] | Mentors Who Redefined the Path

• The importance of mentorship in personal growth and business development
• How asking better questions leads to better self-awareness and ownership
• What Ben gained by relocating his family to surround himself with deeper mentorship and community

[18:34 - 24:16] | Relationship Capital and Big Bets

• Why long-term relationship-building often leads to opportunities you can’t plan for.
• The significance of showing up with trust and consistency before ever asking for anything
• How that one introduction shifted Brandon’s entire career path and vision

[24:17 - 29:17] | Trust, Timing, and Thinking Bigger

• What makes introductions effective: trust in both character and competence
• Why entrepreneurs should put bold ideas out into the world with clarity and intention
• The importance of having a simple test for whether to make a connection

Connect with Ben and Brandon:

Website: https://www.shilohfinance.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bengower1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonsowers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachbengower

https://www.facebook.com/brandoncharlessowers

Key Quotes:

“Becoming a powerful coach comes from being powerfully coached.” - Ben Gower

“You can’t just seek value—you have to find where value is seeking you.” - Brandon Sowers

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What does it feel like to brush up against death twice—and still believe in kindness?

In this intense and deeply personal episode, Kevin speaks with Benjamin Shrader, an event producer who recently survived the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. Benjamin recounts the events of that day, including his surreal invitation to the rally, his interaction with Trump, and the chaos that followed. He also opens up about an earlier life-threatening experience: discovering and surviving a brain tumor. Through both events, Benjamin reflects on the value of kindness, his passion for building community, and how his struggles with dyslexia shaped his entrepreneurial path. It’s a conversation about survival, perspective, and staying grounded in compassion, even when life becomes unpredictable.

[00:01 - 08:22] Kindness Over Cutthroat

• The importance of kindness in business and life
• Rejecting the idea that success must come from ruthlessness
• How Benjamin formed meaningful personal and professional relationships

[08:23 - 16:37] From Brain Tumor to Political Rally

• The bizarre chain of events that led to his VIP invitation to a Trump rally
• The surreal nature of being chosen and the Secret Service vetting process
• Benjamin introduces his health journey, which played a role in the invitation

[16:38 - 24:06] Moments Before Chaos

• The warm demeanor of the former president and the shock of the assassination attempt
• The tragic death of Corey Ator, who was sitting just behind him
• Benjamin reflects on how close he came to death

[24:07 - 32:15] A Scar That Tells a Story

• Benjamin describes his diagnosis with an acoustic neuroma
• Explains the effects, symptoms, and the terrifying prognosis
• How the surgery changed his outlook

[32:16 - 38:16] Building Through Adversity

• How Benjamin built a successful event production company
• Putting on concerts and creating jobs for others
• Finding purpose and pride in hard work

Connect with Benjamin:

Website: https://www.Theshradernation.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-shrader-a852a0152

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benjamin_shrader

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ben.shrader.5

Key Quotes:

“People think success comes from domination or manipulation. I’ve found it in connection and compassion.” - Benjamin Shrader

“Kindness is the new currency. Now, kindness won't pay your bills, but I don't believe in being a real brutal type of cutthroat bad guy.” - Benjamin Shrader

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How do the relationships you build shape your success and personal growth? In this episode of Million Dollar Relationships, host Kevin sits down with entrepreneur Nick Anderson to explore the profound impact of relationships on both business and personal life. Nick shares his journey, emphasizing the role of meaningful connections in his growth as a leader, husband, and father. He delves into the philosophy behind One Accord, his company, and how prioritizing relationships has fueled its success. Through personal anecdotes and key insights, Nick reveals how cultivating trust, integrity, and genuine partnerships can transform one’s life and career.

[00:01 - 07:30] The Foundation of Success: Relationships

• Genuine relationships are the cornerstone of both personal and business growth
• Trust and integrity form the bedrock of lasting partnerships
• Investing in people leads to long-term success and fulfillment

[07:31 - 14:15] Building One Accord: A Relationship-Centric Business

• Prioritizing relationships over transactions fosters a thriving company culture
• Authenticity and shared values attract like-minded individuals
• Long-term business success stems from strong personal connections

[14:16 - 21:45] Overcoming Challenges Through Community

• Support systems help navigate entrepreneurial hurdles
• Learning from mentors accelerates personal and professional growth
• Facing adversity with trusted partners strengthens resilience

[21:46 - 28:20] The Power of Giving First

• Offering value before expecting returns strengthens relationships
• Giving without expectation creates authentic and lasting bonds
• A service-first mindset fosters trust and long-term success

[28:21 - 35:34] Lessons in Leadership and Legacy

• Leadership is about uplifting others and creating opportunities
• Building a legacy is rooted in the impact one leaves on people’s lives
• Success is measured by the relationships nurtured along the way

Connect with Nick:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickdanderson

Website: https://www.oneaccord.co

Key Quotes:

"The whole notion of relationship is the bedrock, the foundation of how OneAccord has grown." – Nick Anderson

"When you invest in people first, everything else falls into place." – Nick Anderson

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What if one conversation could change the trajectory of your business? Entrepreneur and product developer David Sanborn shares how a chance encounter at a networking event led to the sale of his company and transformed his career. From launching a consumer brand in his garage to building a global manufacturing operation, David discusses the power of relationships, the evolution of e-commerce, and the impact of strategic partnerships. He also reflects on the lessons learned from navigating business growth, product innovation, and the unexpected shifts brought by the pandemic.

[00:01 - 05:00] From Engineer to Entrepreneur

• How David transitioned from an engineering background into product development
• The early days of building a consumer brand from his garage
• Realizing the importance of understanding customer psychology beyond product creation

[05:01 - 10:16] Scaling, Selling, and Pivoting

• Expanding from e-commerce to retail and the challenges of logistics
• The moment David realized his business had outgrown his home
• How he successfully sold his second company in 2020

[10:17 - 15:34] A Game-Changing Introduction

• How a chance meeting at a networking event led to a life-changing business opportunity
• The value of knowing the right people in scaling a business
• The difference between online and retail sales strategies

[15:35 - 20:49] The Impact of COVID on E-Commerce & Business Growth

• How COVID changed the retail and supply chain landscape overnight
• The importance of diversifying sales channels beyond online platforms
• The role of partnerships in navigating business challenges

[20:50 - 26:55] Lessons in Business and Innovation

• The importance of adaptability and learning from every business cycle
• Why manufacturing and product development are evolving faster than ever
• Advice for entrepreneurs on scaling, partnerships, and future-proofing a business

Key Quotes:

“You never know who you're going to meet, where you're going to meet them, and what the impact might be at the moment that you meet them.” — David Sanborn

“You realize the number of things you don’t know, and that’s where relationships become invaluable.” — David Sanborn

Connect with David:

Websites: https://www.gizmoglobal.co

https://www.gizmospring.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidasanborn

Honoring: Matt Hariett

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How do some copywriters consistently create messages that engage, persuade, and convert? In this Million Dollar Relationships Podcast episode, David Deutsch, a direct-response expert with over 30 years of experience, shares his journey from Madison Avenue to becoming a sought-after consultant for top brands. He reveals the key lessons he learned from marketing legend Jay Abraham, the power of building relationships, and the importance of writing with authenticity. Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, or writer, this episode is packed with insights on the art of persuasion and how to craft messages that truly resonate.

[00:01 - 06:27] The Power of Relationships in Business

• Relationships act as a filtering system, connecting like-minded individuals
• A strong network can open unexpected doors and opportunities
• Authenticity and shared values create natural connections

[06:28 - 12:34] The Art of Copywriting & Its Impact * Great copy isn’t about formulas—it’s about authentic persuasion * Editing existing copy can be more powerful than writing from scratch * Copywriting success comes from understanding psychology, not just words

[12:35 - 18:42] How Jay Abraham’s Marketing Philosophy Changed Everything * The concept of leveraging competitors instead of fearing them * The power of maintaining a customer list and maximizing lifetime value * How shifting from traditional branding to direct response transformed David’s career

[18:43 - 24:29] Learning from Every Industry to Create Better Copy * Working with diverse industries teaches invaluable marketing lessons * Every project, from estate planning to Procter & Gamble, presented unique challenges * The importance of uncovering emotional triggers in any product or service

[24:30 - 30:14] The Future of Copywriting & The Role of AI * AI-generated copy lacks the emotional depth of human persuasion * Authenticity and personal storytelling are the future of effective marketing * Copywriters should focus on tapping into their inner salesperson rather than relying on formulas

Connect with David:

Websites: https://www.speakingofwriting.com

https://www.davidldeutsch.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-l-deutsch

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.l.deutsch.9

Key Quotes:

"Copywriting isn’t about words on a page. It’s about moving people." — David Deutsch

"The best copy doesn’t sound like copy. It sounds like you talking to a friend." — David Deutsch

Thanks for tuning in!