Get on the Box: tell your story

Visit kitodelgado.com for show notes Brittany Wagner is a nationally respected athletic academic counselor, life coach and motivational speaker. She garnered world-wide fame in 2016 as the television star of the hit Netflix documentary series, “Last Chance U”. Known for giving “troublemakers” their last chance at making it to the next level, Ms. Wagner was the vivacious, mentor and mother-figure to these young men – often times the driving factor behind their future successes. Her common question, “Do you have a pencil?” has become a phenomena across the world since the show’s debut. For the past year, Ms. Wagner has traveled all over the United States as a motivational speaker. In the fall of 2017, she launched her own company, 10 Thousand Pencils. Through 10KP, Brittany is able to work individually with high school and college athletes, administrators, counselors and teachers on academic success strategies and life skills.  CONNECT WITH GET ON THE BOX Twitter:  @getontheboxpod Instagram:  @getontheboxpod

Keith Mitchell, Master Certified Yoga Instructor, and former NFL all-pro Linebacker for the New Orleans Saints, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars, turned to Yoga after a paralyzing tackle caused a spinal injury that ended his football career and forced him into the agony of early retirement at only 31 years old.  In his darkest hour, Keith discovered conscious breathing, yoga, and meditation.  As a result, he not only found healing but a whole new outlook on life. Today, Keith has again risen to the top of his game. In addition to being a Master Certified Yoga Instructor with more than 12 years of experience, Keith is an International Teacher/Speaker.  presenting at such prestigious venues, groups and non-profits as: The Omega Institute, Deepak Chopra’s Homebase (NYC) , Sleepy Hollow Country Club, Four Season Hotel, Wanderlust, Sedona Yoga Conference, LA Coliseum, Just Breathe and Congressional Yoga Association( in Washington DC with Congressman Tim Ryan), Austin Capitol with Unify, LAPD and many more.  Through encouraging consistent, self-empowerment practices, Keith is committed to his mission of inspiring major transformation in the lives of millions.  Visit kitodelgado.com for full show notes!

Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes. Ryan Carson is the founder and CEO of Treehouse.  Treehouse's mission is to bring affordable technology education to people everywhere in order to help them achieve their dreams and change the world.   During this weeks episode, Ryan and I discuss:  Why he launched Treehouse and their mission to provide equal access to technology.  Big mistakes entrepreneurs should avoid when launching a startup.  How hearing "we're going to crush you" from a venture capitalist lit a fire under Ryan.   The benefits of knowing and writing down your "why."  Why Ryan is so passionate about coding  How being a good listener has helped him become a better leader. What prompted Ryan to start spartan racing and how it has helped him with mental toughness.   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Please help us grow the podcast and inspire others into action.  Follow and share Get on the Box with your friends on: Instagram: @getontheboxpod Twitter: @getontheboxpod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more storytellers by leaving us a 5 star review!  Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.    

Workforce Expert shares how organizations can keep millennials engaged at the workplace   Alissa Carpenter founded Everything’s Not OK and That’s OK after 13 years in higher education. She is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and has been featured on ABC7, CBS6, WBFF, PHL17, NPR, and quoted in multiple media outlets including CNN Money and Moneyish. She was also a Forbes contributor where she focused on how millennials can launch to the next phase of their career.  Alissa offers professional development and speaking engagements to companies, and individuals across the country looking to fully enhance communication and identify strengths in their multi-generational workforce. Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes THANKS FOR LISTENING! Please help us grow the podcast and inspire others into action.  Follow and share Get on the Box with your friends on: Instagram: @getontheboxpod Twitter: @getontheboxpod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more storytellers by leaving us a 5 star review!  Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.

Visit kitodelgado.com Kenneth Graham, M.A. is a Best-Selling Author, Inspirational Speaker, Educator, Community Advocate, and established Entrepreneur who is committed to the service of others.  Kenny Graham, as he is better known, continues to be exceptional within his line of work, inspiring and impacting others through his creative style and empowering messages. His words continue to impact thousands of people in various countries throughout the planet! Through social media and his unique teaching style, “Kenny Graham” is making a mark that no one will be able to erase!    THANKS FOR LISTENING! Please help us grow the podcast and inspire others into action.  Follow and share Get on the Box with your friends on: Instagram: @getontheboxpod Twitter: @getontheboxpod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more storytellers by leaving us a 5 star review!  Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.

Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes  David R. Harris, Ph.D., a sociologist with a distinguished record as an innovative teacher, scholar and administrator, became the 19th president of Union College on July 1, 2018. Union College's first African-American President shares his thoughts on leadership, equal access to education, work life balance, and his love for cycling. THANKS FOR LISTENING! Please help us grow the podcast and inspire others into action.  Follow and share Get on the Box with your friends on: Instagram: @getontheboxpod Twitter: @getontheboxpod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more storytellers by leaving us a 5 star review!  Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.  

Visit kitodelgado.com for show notes   Terri believes leaders turn moments into movements, and if community service were a gene, she inherited it from generations before her who had an unrelenting need to give to others. Throughout her accomplished career, Terri has turned public and community service into a professional art form that has positively impacted millions of lives. Terri has found a home with the American Heart Association, realizing her dream of creating significant, community-shifting outcomes. She counts some of the most significant pieces of legislation passed as  her biggest accomplishments, including The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act, one of the biggest defining moments in her career at the age of 28. Today, in addition to her responsibilities at AHA, Terri is focused on paying it forward – encouraging and building up others who want to do something big through her blog, www.movementmakertribe.com.     THANKS FOR LISTENING! Please help us grow the podcast and inspire others into action.  Follow and share Get on the Box with your friends on: Instagram: @getontheboxpod Twitter: @getontheboxpod If you're on Apple Podcasts, help us reach more storytellers by leaving us a 5 star review!  Ratings, reviews and subscribes are extremely helpful to expanding our reach within the Apple community.

Walter Boldish believes that in all of us lies the potential to become better people, better families, better communities, and a better world. 

It is from this belief that I GOT U was born. It’s a clear way to define and spread the attitude of lending a hand, lifting someone up, trusting a friend, or believing in a stranger that cares. People who wear the I GOT U brand represent doing the right thing in the most courageous situations in life as well as doing the right thing in the most routine walks of everyday life.  kitodelgado.com/igotu I Got U partners with Alex and Ani in support of Kenzie's Kindness Shop I Got U Connect with I Got U on Facebook and Instagram Connect with @getontheboxpod on Instagram and Twitter

Full Show notes available at kitodelgado.com   Adam Badger owns and operates Badger Strength,  a personal training and corporate wellness community in Upstate NY.  Having been an entrepreneur for only 3 months,  Adam shares his perspective of going “all in” on yourself, why life experience trumps book knowledge, and how lessons learned in the gym can be applied to all facets of your life.    HIGHLIGHTS AND TAKEAWAYS: Adam was laid off from his job-  He shares how he went from being unemployed to a full-time entrepreneur within two weeks. "I never collected an unemployment check." Don't choose a job just for the money.  Instead, choose passion over money and the money will follow. Stop saying "yeah, but" to your goals and aspirations.  Adam shares why employers should invest in a wellness program for their employees. Adam's advice to fence sitters, "don't sit around waiting for the perfect time to do it because it's never going to come." Life experience is our biggest teacher 4 tips for being productive everyday- wake up early, write down your daily goals, eat well, and set aside time for yourself. Your body and your mind is your biggest asset- "You're going all in on yourself, so why not take care of yourself?" Adam shares the biggest misconception of entrepreneurship- "it's not this utopia of freedom." Subscribe to Get on the Box and share this episode. Lets learn, grow, and be inspired together. Follow @getontheboxpod: Instagram  Twitter  

Visit Kitodelgado.com for complete show notes  Let his pivot from Harvard Law to NFL coach inspire your transition Daron K. Roberts is a former NFL coach and author of  Amazon best seller, “Call an Audible.”  After graduating from Harvard Law School, Roberts made a head-scratching transition to NFL coach.  He held coaching stints with the Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, West Virginia Mountaineers and Cleveland Browns.  Currently, Roberts serves as founding director of the Center for Sports Leadership and Innovation (CSLi) at the University of Texas. The Center is the first university-based institute dedicated to developing leadership and character curricula for high school, collegiate and professional athletes. Through the Center, Roberts teaches a course – A Game plan for Winning at Life– to incoming freshmen student-athletes. In January of 2018, the Center received the commitment and financial support of NBA All-Star, Kevin Durant.

Visit kitodelgado.com/armandohart for complete show notes.   Armando grew up in Long Beach California as first generation Mexican American in a low-income and high-crime environment.  After suffering a traumatic leg injury in 1996 that kept him sidelined at the Olympic games, The Hart Method training philosophy was created. Armando’s road to recovery made him aware of the connection between physical movement, environment, life, and the possibility to maximize performance on all those levels. Now as a world class trainer, speaker, and mentor, Armando’s work is to remove layers of social conditioning through movement for athletes of all levels and all individuals .   DURING THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS How being a 100 meter dash sprinter has helped Armando navigate life How being a little crazy is necessary when perusing your goals Why Armando looks forward to failure Lessons Armando learned from training with Olympic great, Carl Lewis The 8 maxims of the Hart Method and how you can apply them to your daily life What motivated Armando to write his first book, "The Hart Method." Why sharing your authentic story so important Armando shares his experience and lessons learned from training 3 time gold medalist, Misty May-Treanor Why Armando wakes up at 4:15 am everyday- "it sets the tone of the day." and much more Please subscribe and give GOTB a review.

Visit kitodelgado.com for full show notes As a Proud Dad, 2x Best-Selling Author, National Inspirational Speaker and Serial Entrepreneur, Castell J.R. Barnes takes pride in upholding his slogan “Prosper, The Elite Way,” through sonic relief and literary promise. With client work in 5 countries and all throughout the United States, Barnes looks to continue his entrepreneurial mission of innovation + financial empowerment + philanthropy!    DURING THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER How losing his father at a young age and becoming a foster child has helped Castell prosper as an entrepreneur. "Entrepreneurship is not incorporating a business; its innovation."  Before starting a business, focus on your integrity and credibility.  Answer the question, "would a customer buy from me?"  Do you want to write a book in 2018?  Castell recommends writing a letter to yourself-  "Write the book to yourself." "There's nothing sexy about entrepreneurship except for the reward." Why Castell thinks entrepreneurs should date (be with) other entrepreneurs. The biggest similarities between fatherhood and entrepreneurship is consistency and doing things you don't always want to do. Castell's final nudge- "You're a walking miracle, so be one."

Visit kitodelgado.com/hbcuwallstreet for complete show notes. Jamerus Payton and Torrence Reed are graduates of North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, NC and the co-founders of HBCU Wall Street.  They share a combined mission of being a solution for increasing economic opportunities and wealth in the black community, starting with our nation's HBCU community. Through live events, webinars, an online community and a growing social media following,  HBCU Wall Street provides audiences with tangible know-how and tools of empowerment to immediately put themselves in a better psychological and financial position.

Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes Compete every day. That’s Jake Thompson’s guiding philosophy, the mantra he repeats to himself when he needs to keep going. It’s also the name of his global lifestyle brand (of which he is founder and Chief Encouragement Officer) and the nugget of wisdom he shares with audiences around the world. Pulling from his unique professional career, Jake tells enlivened stories through his podcast, “Better Than Yesterday,” and distills the art of competition into actionable tips people can use within their own lives: take control, don’t let fear guide you, be courageous, and press onward. His focus is to motivate you and your team to make it happen, whatever it is. Because life, work, and passion? That’s always worth competing for. KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM TODAY'S EPISODE 1.   By telling your story, you provide hope and lend encouragement to someone who is struggling with a situation you've already overcome.  2.   Jake uses the analogy of a sprinter running the 100 meter dash to emphasize the importance of not comparing yourself to others.  Sprinters don't look to their right, left, or behind during a race; doing so will only slow them down.  Instead, they look forward and focus on the finish line which allows them to reach optimal speed. We should focus on our own race and compete against our previous best. 3.  Jake's advice for entrepreneurs and start ups- "Start small!"   4.  Avoid "Yes Men" and surround yourself with people that hold your feet to the fire. 5.  Jake starts every day with daily affirmations.  He constantly reminds himself that he has what it takes to accomplish his goals.  "If you're starting your day pouring into yourself, it only gives you more power to be able take on whatever sits before you in the day ahead." 6.  It's important for entrepreneurs to maintain balance.  "You gotta be able to take care of yourself to take care of others."

Visit kitodelgado.com/laurenvalentine for complete show notes and links to helpful resources Lauren Valentine is a highly motivated professional with a passion for sales and business development. Using the Sandler tools she works with companies to grow their businesses through effective sales and management practices. Lauren works with Sandler Training – the global leader in management, sales and customer service training and consulting.   TOP TAKEAWAYS  1.   A "sponsor" is someone who  advocates on your behalf even when you're not in the room. They look out for you by opening doors you didn't even know existed. 2.  Selling is understanding and then solve a problem someone might have. In order to do this effectively, a sales person must be a good listener. We have two ears and one mouth; use them in that proportion. 3.  Utilizing storytelling throughout the sales process helps the buyer to "self discover" how your solution can solve their problem. 4. Good sales people follow a processes; they don't wing it. 5. Track "leading behaviors"and focus on what you can control. "Measure the task and not the results." 6.  You can't say yes to everything and everyone. Doing so can lead to you doing a lot of different things poorly.  

Visit kitodelgado.com to connect with today's main character and the resources mentioned during the episode.   Robert T. “YB” Youngblood is the Founder and Chief Connecting Officer of YBConnects, LLC, a Richmond, VA based Strategic Relationship & Referral Marketing Firm that helps entrepreneurs and sales professionals to enhance their confidence, credibility, and visibility which leads to increased brand awareness, referrals and revenue. For over 15 years 'YB'  has focused his energy on building long-term relationships. He has a unique way of helping people to decrease frustration when it comes to attracting opportunities. His positive attitude enhances his ability to help his clients to overcome challenges in the area of Communication, Leadership & Networking.  YB holds a bachelor degree in business administration from Virginia Union University. He was born and raised in the Bronx, NY, and now resides in Richmond, VA with his wife and two daughters. In his time off, he loves to travel to warm places with palm trees.    

Visit kitodelgado.com/tonyarapley for complete show notes! Tonya Rapley is a nationally recognized millennial money expert and founder of the award-winning site, My Fab Finance. She has graced the cover of Black Enterprise magazine and was deemed the "New Face of Wealth Building". She was also selected as a Modern History Maker by TV One and has been recognized as one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Women in Personal Finance on Twitter”. Her mission is to help millennial women break the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck and own their power.    An engaging, relatable, and fun public speaker, Tonya has spoken at The New York Stock Exchange, Essence Fest, Bloomberg, The Taco Bell Foundation, PepsiCo, Fidelity and a host of colleges and universities across the country.   3 KEY HIGHLIGHTS 1.  Know your worth!  Walk into any room with the understanding that you're supposed to be there, and you deserve to be there.  2.  So many aspiring entrepreneurs chase exposure without  having systems in place to capitalize on the attention.  Develop your systems first and then pursue eyes. 3.  Tonya's advice for improving your finances- "Sit down and be honest with yourself on where you are and where you want to go."  You need to be crystal clear on what you want to do and block out the opinions of others; including your parents.   Check out Tonya's new book, "The Money Manual: A Practical Money Guide to Help You Succeed On Your Financial Journey."

Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes. Thomas Golianopoulos is a writer and editor living in New York City. He has contributed to the New York Times, Grantland, BuzzFeed, Pitchfork, and the Ringer. 3 KEY HIGHLIGHTS 1. Thomas is the son of two immigrant parents who wanted him to pursue the secure career of a teacher.  He shares why he chose a different path and how they reacted to it.    2.  Thomas believes structure is the most important element of writing a story. "I'm big into outlines."   3.  Thomas reveals what makes someone a great writer- they combine instincts, structure, and sentences  

Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes for every episode.   Michael Skolnik was recently profiled in the NY Times and identified as "the man you go to if you want to leverage the power of celebrity and the reach of digital media to soften the ground for social change." But, besides all of that, he is most proud to be the father of Mateo Ali, a rambunctious four year old. In his day job, he is the CEO of The Soze Agency, a social impact agency that partners with companies, non-profits, foundations and movements to create campaigns that uplift compassion, authenticity and equity. The Soze Agency is a worker’s owned cooperative. 3 KEY HIGHLIGHTS 1.  Michael Shares why he decided to make Soze Agency a workers owned cooperation and reveals the steps they've taken to become a "triple bottom line" organization.   2.  As a straight, white man, Michael understands that he was born with white privilege.  Some choose to exploit their white privilege, while Michael decided at a young age to use his privilege for the greater good.    3.  Michael almost lost his young son to a febrile seizure and highly recommends parents learn more about this condition.

Jiyah, Jace, Merl, and Jennaye Fennell are a traveling family that INSPIRES the WORLD...through writing, publishing, podcasting, speaking, Face Painting, and rapping while creating HAPPINESS! 9 yr old, Jace wanted to share Hawaii with others, so “Journey through Hawaii with Jace,” was the first book! 8 yr old, Merl was inspired by his big brother, so “Journey through Texas with Merl,” was the second book! 14 yr old, big sister, Jiyah combined her face painting and character trait skills, so “Princess Jiyah’s Face Painting Fairytale,” followed! Mom has been inspired by all 3 children, so “Hope and Happiness” was created!   Visit Kitodelgado.com for show notes

Substitute teacher turned Emmy award winner talks about living a life worth bragging about Courtland Bragg is an Emmy-Award Winning Associate Producer for NFL Films and Multimedia Journalist for Guru Blue Productions. He has directed, produced and edited content for shows airing on ESPN, Amazon Video and NFL Network as well as covered athletes such as Olympic Gold Medalist, Jordan Burroughs and Hip Hop Humanitarian, Mont Brown.  Courtland is also an inspirational speaker who’s message aims to inspire others to live a life worth bragging about.  Head over to kitodelgado.com for complete show notes and links to resources mentioned by Courtland

The media calls him “Marathon Man” because of his astonishing accomplishments. Croix went from a non-runner to a Run Across America in just one year. The next year he broke the world record running 146 miles though Death Valley, the harshest and hottest environment on the planet.  It’s not about the run or the world record. It is about what is you can accomplish when you own your greatness. Croix is an internationally celebrated author and inspirational speaker in the field of personal and business transformation and the psychology of success.    SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Croix shares why he decided to run 100 marathons in 100 days Having a Plan B detracts you from executing on Plan B- Croix refused to get a second job while building up his business We are our own worst critics- Croix shares strategies for overcoming negative self talk The quote that kept Croix going -  "Croix, you can't quit"  It's important to take action that's in alignment with your goals The big secret to success - Consistent Action Croix booked a large speaking opportunity after the Vice President of a 10 billion company purchased a used copy of "Dream Big Act Big" at a church tag sale  Taking action requires laser focus-  Train your mind to do so Croix's definition of entrepreneurship- a combination of passion and impact "The lack of money is the root of all evil." Mentors help you reach your goals faster Some people are meant to be in your life for a season or a season- "it's about growing where they don't." You can't help those that don't want to to be helped Croix shares why he'd love to meet Nelson Mandela and reveals the one question he'd ask him "Grind it out until you get discovered"- Croix's advise to aspiring motivational speakers For complete show notes visit kitodelgado.com 

Matt Kramer, engineer turned entrepreneur took his carbon fiber knowledge from helicopter design to insoles and helped outfit over 150 NCAA & Pro teams in an energy-returning insole. Proven to make you run faster (+9.3%), jump higher (1.6”) and protect from injury, @teamVKTRY insoles are changing the sports world.     MATT SHARES The grind of launching a startup Why he left a secure job to help launch VKTRY insoles Why he thinks being at a startup is the best place to be How VKTRY insoles helps athletes run faster and jump higher  The biggest difference between being an employee and an owner How he convinced the New England Patriots to join Team VKTRY What sets VKTRY insoles apart from others in the industry How he established relationships with athletes, agents, and manufacturers His definition of entrepreneurship- "Problem Solving" The number one app he uses to manage VKTRY Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes and helpful links to resources mentioned by Matt.    

Today's main character is Matt Scarchilli.  Matt is a proven entrepreneur.  His experiences starting, acquiring and selling companies gives him a broader lens to look through when evaluating situations and working with clients.  Matt’s sales success over the last 20 years has put him in a position to now be able to share those experiences to help other companies grow and flourish.  Matt is a student of human nature and the sales process giving him new ways to connect and communicate with people. Today Matt is the owner and CEO of Sandler Training Systems of the Greater Capital District which delivers sales, customer service and management training to companies of all sizes across all verticals. IN THIS EPISODE MATT AND I DISCUSS: Overcoming his battle with alcohol abuse Why he is reluctant to give advise to others The importance of recognizing what areas of business you are weak in How taking his eye off the ball hurt his business Why businesses need to stay up to date with industry trends Matt's definition of entrepreneurship-- Be willing to take a risk The number one question Matt asks himself before attending a networking event How having a systematic sales process can help 10x your business Matt's non-negotiable- daily prayer and so much more Visit Kitodelgado.com for complete show notes    

Dujon C. Smith has been able to travel, work, and study in 48 countries, allowing him to develop strong intercultural communication and leadership skills. His unique and diverse experiences in the U.S and abroad have provided him with a detailed knowledge of a variety of business cultures. Dujon is a Boren Scholar, member of the Scenemaker’s Board of the Goodman Theater, and active mentor in Chicago’s startup community. He is passionate about travel, technology and education, and his dream is to inspire others to expose themselves to new people, places and cultures. Currently, Dujon is an innovator working as a growth catalyst for Accenture. IN THIS EPISODE DUJON SHARES: Why he loves traveling the world- 48 countries and counting How he raised money as a high school student in order to go on a class trip to Italy The two countries everyone should visit and why How visiting third world countries has helped shape his outlook on life His definition of a "social" entrepreneur What prompted him to launch Fernweh Luggage Disparities in capital access between minority and non-minority businesses and so much more Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show includes including favorite quotes, and links to helpful resources mentioned by today's main character. Don't forget to subscribe to Get on the Box on your favorite podcast destination.

The co-founder of Planted Organics shares his recipe for launching a business from scratch Royston Souvenir is the co-founder of Planted Organics. As a former division 1 track & field athlete, a healthy diet was and will always be an important part of Royston's life. Planted Organics was born due to the lack of a healthy salad dressing. For guaranteed freshness and quality all dressings are made carefully by hand. Fresh ingredients are used in each and every batch in order to guarantee the best salad experience.   Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes including favorite quotes, resources mentioned, and key takeaways.   Subscribe, Review and Rank Get on the Box on Apple Podcast

Welcome back squad!  Today's main character is coach Rey Crossman.  The 2017-2018 season marked coach Crossman's third year as the assistant men’s basketball coach at Skidmore College.  The Albany, New York native has a career focus centered around the success and development of young men as individuals, scholars, and basketball players. What he deems most important is leaving a lasting positive impact in the community by sharing his knowledge with those who can use it.   IN THIS EPISODE COACH CROSSMAN SHARES: Advice to high school student athletes hoping to get recruited How building relationships can help establish a winning culture Why you should  have a "how can I help" mindset Why we should focus more on the process and less on the results Advice to high school athletes who want to play sports in college His definition of an athlete The biggest difference between high school and  college sports How staying in shape helps him connect with his players and more Visit kitodelgado.com for full show notes Please subscribe, rank, and leave a review for Get on the Box.

Welcome back squad!  Today's main character is Stephen Mackey. The founder and CEO of  2Words Character Development, Mackey has spent the last 10 years helping students and leaders connect the dots between sports and the game of life. Bi-racial and born to a teenaged mother, Mackey beat the odds to become a first-generation college graduate, seminary trained-pastor, teacher, entrepreneur, and highly sought after communicator. IN THIS EPISODE STEPHEN SHARES: How sports can help you be successful in life Why you should consider holding your child back from starting kindergarten How he built up resources prior to launching 2Words Character Development His Get on the Box moment How   previous work experience has helped him grow as an entrepreneur The definition of being a "one shoe" game. His definition of an athlete How to make the transition from motivation to discipline The benefits of  learning how to say NO in service to a greater YES Visit kitodelgado.com for show notes Subscribe to Get on the Box on Apple Podcast  

Today's main character is  Evan Odeseye.  Born in Staten Island, New York to a single mother, Evan’s upbringing instilled in him a hustler's ambition that has served him well personally and professionally.  A diversely intelligent, creative-minded entrepreneur, Evan is  dedicated to building the lifestyle he envisions for himself and those around him.  While competing as division 1 scholarship athlete, Evan earned two bachelor degrees of science in business marketing, and business management from Wagner College.  His time as a collegiate athlete not only nurtured his passion for football, but it revealed to him the business side of sports.  As CEO and founder of Unrestricted Sports and Entertainment Management, and First Love Yourself,  Evan  works to create strong marketing programs for professional athletes on and off the filed. IN THIS EPISODE EVAN SHARES: What inspired him to start his clothing line, First Love Yourself The value of learning all aspects of your business How being a personal assistant has helped him as an entrepreneur Why he was willing to work for free for 12 months How he's able to relate to today's professional athlete How to develop mutually beneficial relationships in business What characteristics of athletes are transferable to entrepreneurship Why he decided to get off social media for 3 months What question every entrepreneur should ask themselves everyday The biggest misconception of entrepreneurship   Full show notes at kitodelgado.com   Please subscribe to Get on the Box, leave a review, and rank the show!  

Richard (aka RL) Taylor is an award-winning author, business coach, podcast host and founder of Harrison Blake Apparel. The brand offers men's neckties, accessories and monthly subscription clubs that help men look polished. His background in Manufacturing and Business Administration play a role in putting systems in place for success. Passionate about paying it forward, he has begun helping others reach their entrepreneurial goals by teaching them how to launch a brand and build a business. IN THIS EPISODE RICHARD SHARES: The motivation behind starting Harrison Blake Apparel When building your brand, start small.  Don't do too much too fast. His definition of entrepreneurship The first step of starting a business- "Just get started with the idea" Why you should consider working with individuals outside your immediate inner circle How you can take advantage of a global economy when building your brand His favorite way to gain knowledge What every gentleman should have in their closet Why you should invest in a crisp white dress shirt 5 ways men can accessorize their look Why he posts on social media everyday Visit Kitodelgado.com/brand for complete show notes including links to helpful resources   Subscribe to Get on the Box on Apple Podcast Please leave us a review and rank the show.

Today's high achiever is  Deray McKesson.  DeRay is a civil rights activist focused primarily on issues of innovation, equity and justice. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, he graduated from Bowdoin College and holds an honorary doctorate from The New School. DeRay has advocated for issues related to children, youth, and families since he was a teen. As a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter Movement and the co-founder of Campaign Zero and OurStates.org, DeRay has worked to connect individuals with knowledge and tools, and provide citizens and policy makers with commonsense policies to ensure equity. Spurred by the death of Mike Brown and the subsequent protests in Ferguson, Missouri, DeRay has become a key voice in the effort to confront the systems and structures that have led to the mass incarceration and police killings of black and other minority populations. DeRay was named as one of the World’s Greatest Leaders by Fortune Magazine in 2015 and as one of the 30 Most Important People On The Internet by Time Magazine in 2016. Visit KitoDelgado.com for complete show notes which include key takeaways and favorite quotes. Please Subscribe to Get on the Box on Apple Podcast,  leave us a  review, and rank the show.  

Dr. Nehemiah James Mabry is a structural engineer, educator and entrepreneur based in Raleigh, North Carolina. His engineering experience includes over 8 years of research at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and, most recently he works as a Bridge Design Engineer at Simpson Engineers & Associates in Cary, N.C.  In 2012, while attending North Carolina State University as a graduate student, he founded STEMedia Incorporated. STEMedia, a digital media company that provides creative inspiration and educational content for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) community. Since its inception, Dr. Mabry has won national awards, engaged audiences through public speaking, rendered guest lectures and partnered with several organizations, businesses and academic institutions in STEM outreach. Don't miss out on complete show notes which include: 10 Key Takeaways  5 inspirational  quotes 3 Helpful tools that save you time and money  subscribe to Get on the Box on Apple Podcast Visit kitodelgado.com/stem-media-nehemiah-mabry

Joey Price, CEO of Jumpstart: HR, LLC warns startups not to hire too fast Today's high achiever is  Joey Price.   Joey is an award-winning Human Resource executive, business coach, thought leader, and professor. He is the founder of Jumpstart: HR, LLC, an HR consulting practice specifically for small businesses and startups, and host of Business, Life, and Coffee, a weekly personal and professional development podcast. Joey is a recent SHRM Top 30 Under 30 award winner, one of Forbes Magazine's Kevin Kruse's Top 100 Employee Engagement Experts in the World, and frequently cited HR and Startup Thought Leader in publications such as Forbes, HR Magazine, Inc., Businessweek, AMEX Open Forum, Money Magazine, and more.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Pitfalls to avoid when hiring employees for the first time The critical role HR plays in effectively growing a business Joey and I are both Jay-Z fans! Best hiring advice- Be slow to hire When hiring employees start by hiring for specific tasks The hidden cost of replacing an employee- the cost will shock you Business owners should assign themselves an hourly rate A solopreneur can involve multiple participants in the interview process Millennial's are old enough to change the world and have an impact on people NOW The only thing holding you back from starting a business is you Joey shares the biggest piece of advice he's received from a mentor- "Wealth moves in stealth" Joey shares his definition of entrepreneur- "entrepreneurs get to  choose how they impact the world." Entrepreneurs should apply this Wayne Gretzky quote to their business- " skate to where the puck is going to be, not to where it has been." How starting a podcast can help you get in front of your ideal customer Joey's daily routine always includes quiet time to read and learn Look for apps that give you structure in areas you are not structured Your biggest revenue generating asset is your body- take care of it and so much more   For complete chow notes visit Kitodelgado.com/hiring-best-practices-joey-price Follow Get on the Box on Instagram and Twitter  

Welcome back, storytellers!  Today's high achiever is Chris-Tia Donaldson, a Detroit native, Harvard attorney, cancer survivor, and current CEO of Thank God It’s Natural (tgin), a manufacturer of natural hair and skin care products. The former Senior Corporate Counsel at Oracle is also author to #1 Amazon best seller, Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Natural Hair, and is deeply committed to raising awareness of breast cancer and the benefits of early detection among women of color.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER: The importance of building solid, strong, lasting business relationships The major lesson Chris-Tia learned from Harvard Tips for balancing a full-time job and a side-hustle How 2015 was the best and worst year of Chris-Tia's life Challenges of being a black women in Corporate America How to Successfully manage your side hustle with your full-time career Tips for being an effective CEO How being an attorney has helped Chris-Tia in her role of CEO Why Critical Thinking Matters In the Workplace  How TGIN doubled in revenue while Chris-Tia battled breast cancer How the most effective CEO's delegate and so much more   Thank God I'm Natural--The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Maintaining Natural Hair by Chris-Tia Donaldson   Shop Thank God It's Natural    Visit kitodelgado.com for complete show notes   Please subscribe, rank the show and leave us a review on Apple podcast.

In celebration of Black History month, Get on the Box is pleased to present "Black Excellence: Sharing the stories of High Achievers." In this month long series, we will publish two episodes per week (Wednesday and Sunday)  highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of nine African American High Achievers. "It was something that I love. It was something that I practice. It was something that I knew I had to share ." - Amanda Muhammad Welcome back storytellers!  Today's High Achiever, is Amanda Muhammad (@sfmako1908)  Amanda Muhammad is a Mindfulness-Based Stress Management Consultant in Dallas, TX. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from The University of Kansas in Management & Leadership, with a Concentration in Human Resources, and a Master's Degree from Baker University in Organizational Leadership. She is a Yoga Instructor, Mindfulness Teacher, and Dynamic Mindfulness Certified Trainer. After several successful but unfulfilling career moves in Corporate America and Education she realized one thing; everyone was stressed and no one knew how to manage it. Amanda now spends her days teaching accessible ways to take a preventative approach to stress management. Further, she teaches you how to introduce these techniques to others as a foundation for social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and resilience. Amanda teaches wellness classes, workshops, and facilitates Dynamic Mindfulness Trainings.  Amanda has had the opportunity to share her practice with a number of individuals, organizations, schools, and companies in the DFW Metroplex. Her vision is to provide a safe and accessible space for people of all ages, genders, shapes, physical capabilities, and economic backgrounds, to tap into their underutilized potential and help them create great days.    IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to leave a toxic work environment The biggest challenges of entrepreneurship Key ingredients to being a successful entrepreneur Tips on how to run a business as a solopreneur How to reduce overhead by going without a storefront business Why employers should invest in a wellness program The dangers of not knowing the difference between Fight or Flight  Why we need to have systems in place to manage our stress How establishing morning routines can help determine the trajectory of your day The difference between dynamic mindfulness and Yoga Three things you need to do everyday:  Move, Breath, and Center Science Backed ways to help you fall asleep faster How implementing a dynamic mindfulness program helped a school district  eliminate student suspensions The importance of  who you let into your inner circle Tools to help Automate your small business tasks and so much more   Visit kitodelgado.com/amandamuhammad for complete show notes and links to valuable resources.

In celebration of Black History month, Get on the Box is pleased to present Black Excellence: Sharing the stories of High Achievers." In this month long series, GOTB will publish two episodes per week (Wednesday and Sunday)  highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of nine African American High Achievers. "I owe a lot of people." - Dr. Anthony Jenkins Welcome back storytellers!  Today's High Achiever, is Dr. Anthony Jenkins, (@JenkinsWVSU11) Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., West Virginia State University’s 11th President effective July 1, 2016, is an established higher education leader committed to advocating for students and creating opportunity to higher education for all students, especially culturally under-represented groups.   Born in Washington D.C., and raised between our nation’s capital and North Carolina, Jenkins is a vocal proponent for education and public policy issues. He has fostered meaningful dialogue within the national higher education community. His research, speeches and publications focus on crisis management, enrollment and retention, diversity, African-American male initiatives, first-generation college student success, state funding for higher education, mentoring and high-risk college campus behavior such as alcohol consumption and sexual misconduct. Throughout his career, he has enhanced the quality of the university experience for students, developed and successfully implemented comprehensive retention and enrollment plans leading to greater access, opportunity and higher graduation rates; thereby enabling more individuals to improve their quality of life by earning a college education. Jenkins began his path to West Virginia State University as a United States Army veteran and first-generation college graduate. Jenkins earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Tech University, a Master of Science degree from North Carolina Central University, and a Bachelor's of Applied Science degree from Fayetteville State University.   Prior to leading the State family, Jenkins served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and, most recently, as the Senior Associate Vice President for the University of Central Florida – the nation’s second largest university. His career includes serving at Jackson State University, thereafter joining Virginia Tech’s Housing and Residence Life and later the Office of the Dean of Students. He remained at Virginia Tech until becoming the Assistant Dean of Students at Northeastern Illinois University. He later served as the Associate Dean of Students at the University of North Carolina Wilmington; and was recruited to serve as the Dean of Students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Jenkins is a Life-member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. He is an active member of several higher education organizations, including: the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA); the American College Personnel Association (ACPA); the State University System of Florida Associate Vice President Council; the National Association of Student Affairs Professionals (NASAP); the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU); and the Association of Student Conduct Administration (ASCA). In 2014, he served as a faculty member for the NASPA Region II Mid Manager Institute.   A supporter of quality higher education, he has served as a site evaluator for the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). He has been inducted into several of the most prestigious academic honor, business and leadership societies in the nation: Alpha Kappa Psi; Phi Kappa Phi; Sigma Alpha Pi; Alpha Sigma Lambda; Omicron Delta Kappa; Alpha Phi Sigma; and Order of Omega.   Jenkins is married to Toinette Jenkins and they have two daughters. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER: The benefits of letting your children taste failure The importance of mentors Why you should define your own definition of success The difference between a leader and a manager and a The five essential qualities of a good leader The greatest compliment a parent can give a University How first generation college graduates break  generational cycles Why families should give strong consideration to a state college The expectation President Jenkins has of West Virginia State graduates How the perception of two year college institutions have changed Why West Virginia State implemented the Straight 2 State program  How running a university is like being the CEO of a company The myth of high cost education What factors students should consider when selecting a college and so much more   Visit kitodelgado.com/anthonyjenkins for show notes  

In celebration of Black History month, Get on the Box is pleased to present Black Excellence: Sharing the stories of High Achievers." In this month long series, GOTB will publish two episodes per week (Wednesday and Sunday)  highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of nine African American High Achievers. Welcome back storytellers!  Today’s High Achiever, is L. Oliver Robinson,  (@OliverRobinso13)  Dr. L. Oliver Robinson serves as the Superintendent of Schools for the Shenendehowa Central School District since July of 2005. Prior to coming to Shen, he served as the Superintendent of the Mohonasen CSD. His recognition as the 2013 New York Superintendent of the Year speaks to his unwavering belief in the transcending and transforming power of a quality education.   Dr. Robinson is the author of a recently published book, Naked in the Public Eye – Leading and Learning in an Era of Accountability. The book provides a practical road map to success and illuminates the mental and emotional fortitude needed in leadership positions. The tone and format are framed to contextualize the complex challenges faced by educational leaders in an era of heightened focus on accountability.  Dr. Robinson received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Business Economics, and Organizational Behavior & Management from Brown University. He received a Master’s degree from the University at Albany, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.), also from the University at Albany. He has been the Assistant Superintendent for Business (Mohonasen), School Business Official (Berne-Knox-Westerlo), and adjunct professor at the University at Albany, the College of St. Rose, and currently teaching a course in the doctoral program for the Sage Colleges. Viewing himself as a leader for learning, Dr. Robinson is a steadfast advocate for children and educational achievement. He is a staunch believer in equity and equal access to educational opportunities for all children, and focuses his leadership on fostering a school system that brings out the genius in every child. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why education matters How the pursuit of higher education is transcendent How to transform challenges into opportunities How playing teams sports helps achieve synergy at the workplace The biggest misconceptions of running a school district How time-blocking and scheduling can help maintain balance The difference between Kronos and Kairos time How to instill belief and confidence in students The benefits of understanding the value of your time The skills, qualities, and traits of an highly effective leader How to respond to and overcome self doubt  What the number one lesson we all should teach our children How working out allows Oliver to give more to others Why you should carve out a courvoisier moment everyday How to build an effective team Why you should consider a career in education What Oliver is looking for in an educator and so much more   Visit kitodelgado.com/oliverrobinson for complete show notes.   Read Naked In the Public Eye- Leading and Learning in an Era of Accountability.

In celebration of Black History month, Get on the Box is pleased to present Black Excellence: Sharing the stories of High Achievers.” In this month long series, GOTB will publish two episodes per week (Wednesday and Sunday)  highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of nine African American High Achievers. Today’s High Achiever is chef Alex Askew (@AlexAskew) At 14 he received his first job offer as a personal chef through a high school vocational work program and after 6 years of working in a variety of restaurants in and out of New York City decided to attend the Culinary Institute of America and graduated in 1989. With a focus on eating lifestyles and trends in new menu alternatives, he began food research, development, and consulting for companies; General Mills, Hilton Hotels, Aramark Corporation, Specialty Restaurants and a host of private clients. Alex has also created one of the most unique consortium of chefs under one group (ALS Culinary Concepts) for consulting in areas of menu development, R&D, start up operations, systems and controls, food manufacturing, business planning and concept reviews. While working in restaurants that broadened his experience in different cooking styles as well as cuisines which included Cajun and Creole, Holistic, Latin and American fusion. In 1993 Alex Co-founded the BCAGlobal (formally Black Culinarian Alliance) which dedicates itself to Education, Awareness, and Exposure for young and professionals of color seeking career advancement within the culinary, hospitality, and foodservice industry. The organization has assisted students and professionals alike, through mentoring, networking, career development, and an overall focus on marketability and discipline, to reach their fullest potential and position themselves as industry leaders. Alex has enjoyed guest appearances on Good Morning America, CBS Early Morning Show, and the Food Network. He was a 2001 Doctorate of Food service recipient from the North American Food service Equipment Manufacturers, a Distinguished Visited Chef (DVC) for Sullivan University, 2011 Business Leader of Year from the Marcella Brown Foundation, in May 2012 received the distinguished New York Institute of Technology Global Leadership Award and served on the American Culinary Federation as Board member Accreditation Commission. In 2014 Alex was Awarded 2014 National Kellogg Fellowship in Leadership and Racial Equity Healing. In 2018 through a National collective, Mindful Eating for the Beloved Community will be launched to focus on the importance of health equity in communities of color engaging chefs, food experts and agriculturalist as a coalition. With over 25 years in the restaurant and hospitality field Alex continues his use of knowledge and experience as a foundation for further growth and development in the best industry in the world and continues the important social change work for the advancement of people of color in the culinary arts. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL DISCOVER The motivation behind Alex's decision to  form the minority culture society while attending the Culinary Institute of America  The importance of investing in yourself before expecting others to  How to develop a strong  mentorship program How self care helps prevents burnout as a leader The importance of being kind to yourself  The benefits of mindful eating The difference between equity and equality  Key ingredients of effective leadership  How to be an engaged listener The need for real dialogue regarding health and racial equity Why the black community needs to embrace collaboration and so much more Mindful Eating for The Beloved Community, essays curated by Alex Askew Visit kitodelgado.com/alexaskew for complete show notes 

In celebration of Black History month, Get on the Box is pleased to present Black Excellence: Sharing the stories of High Achievers.” In this month long series, GOTB will publish two episodes per week (Wednesday and Sunday)  highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of nine African American High Achievers. “Kindness is underrated” – Jacques H. Bastien Kicking off our celebration is today’s High Achiever, Jacques Bastien, (@jacqueshbastien)  Writer, consultant, college professor, and serial entrepreneur, Jacques Bastien is the CEO/founder of Boogie GRP, parent company to shade.co, boogie.co, nappy.co, to name a few. With his diverse experience, Jacques consults with companies and teams on leadership, personal development, and productivity. He also instructs students on how to design mobile apps at the University at Albany and teaches creatives how to turn their passions into full-time professions. Jacques has been featured in Forbes, Inc, Black Enterprise, Huffington Post, and more. IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL DISCOVER: How to build a business with limited resources Jacques definition of entrepreneurship The meaning of “Hustle years” How to improve representation and create opportunities for black creators The benefits of working side-by-side with your spouse The importance of knowing what advice to follow The misconceptions of needing money to start a business Why it may be best to remain a solo-preneur How to run lean and stay profitable by outsourcing projects The importance of being kind in business Jacques number one time saving app  The two burning questions Jacques would want to ask Henry Ford How wearing a blazer helps you “stay ready” and so much more Success leaves clues! visit kitodelgado.com/black-excellence-jacques-bastien to learn more about the resources mentioned during today's episode.

"If you don't have passion don't even think about getting on the box" - Matt Phelps Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Matt Phelps,  (@metabolicmatt) As the founder of Metabolic Meltdown in 2008, Matt has assisted thousands of clients in their quest to lose weight, gain energy, and build strength. With fitness as his lifelong passion, Matt has a relentless drive to improve, an intense training style, and an authentic concern for his clients (particularly those who went to his alma mater, Siena College), all of which make him one of the top trainers in the Capital Region. Clients at the gym have a “love-hate” relationship with Matt, as many of them hate him during the workout, and love the way he makes them feel when they are done! In this episode you'll discover: How to transition from an employee to employer The key ingredient needed to pivot within your industry What is Metabolic training The benefits of time under tension training The importance of consistency in running a business and working out The benefits of making mistakes The one question every entrepreneur should ask themselves everyday Best practices for hiring employees Why athletes usually make great trainers The benefits of audio learning How having a child changes your perspective How humility can help business grow ten fold and so much more Success leaves clues. Please visit kitodelgado.com/mattphelps and connect with Matt, and learn more about the helpful resources  mentioned during today's episode. Thank you so much for checking out this episode of Get on the Box.  If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute and leave a quick rating and review of the show on Apple Podcast by clicking on the link below. It will help us to keep delivering inspiration through storytelling every week! Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcast  

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Ryan Hanley,  (@ryanhanley_com) As Chief Marketing Officer of Agency Nation, an insurance-centric digital media company, Ryan leverages his eight years as a retail insurance agent to educate and engage more than 300,000 insurance professionals annually. With more than a dozen Fortune 1000 insurance companies as clients, he uses social and content marketing to attract, nurture and deliver consumer attention to over 20,000 independent insurance agencies across the US, yielding millions in new business premium each year. Ryan shares his unique industry experience and expertise on YouTube, in “The Show.” During our chat, Ryan shares: His struggle with insurance sales The two most valuable lessons of content marketing The real purpose of your website The importance of sharing content without the expectation of reciprocation How producing 100 videos has led to over $300,000 in revenue The money shot of content marketing The two types of people that do entrepreneurism the right way The misconceptions of entrepreneurship Why he wakes up at 5am and so much more Success leaves clues!  Visit kitodelgado.com/ryanhanley for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and links to resources mentioned.

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Andy Holloway,  (@andyholloway) Andy is the co-host of The Fantasy Footballers podcast.   The Fantasy Footballers podcast is an award-winning independent fantasy football podcast that records and produces fantasy football content all year long. The show is focused on producing and developing content that is highly accurate, highly entertaining, and of a high production quality. During our chat, Andy and I discuss: Saying no to things that may be good, but not the best for your business The importance of staying in your lane How to create easy wins by placing a premium on quality  The similarities of building a fantasy football team and building a business Making time for his family The historic coach he would like to have dinner with His Get on the Box moment and much more Please Enjoy! Success leaves clues! Visit kitodelgado.com for key takeaways and links to resources mentioned during today's episode. 

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Tony Moze,  (@tony_moze5) A Brooklyn born, US Army veteran, Tony is an educator, entertainer and entrepreneur whose love for books and passion for music has led him to become the RHYMING book reviewer.   During our chat, Tony and I discuss: His Get on the Box moment Why it’s Important to define your business niche The importance of knowing your worth and understanding your value Resources you can use to help leverage your time What past leader he would like to have dinner with What he would like the name of his autobiography to be His Why and much more Please Enjoy! Success leaves clues! Visit kitodelgado.com for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and resources mentioned during today's episode. Support our mission of inspiration through storytelling.  Become a Patron of Get on the Box

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Jes Perez,  (@itsjesperez) As a little girl growing up in the Dominica Republic, Jes always knew she wanted to pursue a career in entertainment.  As founder and host of Industry High, Jes combines her passion for media and consumer culture to connect with children and millennials. She brings a fun and focused work ethic, creative energy and a love for social media and television production wherever she goes.   Head over to kitodelgado.com for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and resources mentioned during today's episode.

Head over to kitodelgado.com for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and links to helpful resources and books mentioned during today's episode. Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Jason Arcemont,  (@jasonarcemont) A Serial Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author, Endurance Runner,  BBVA Compass small business ambassador, and more, Jason Arcemont is undoubtedly a dynamic individual. Setting goals and crushing them seems to not only be a common quest for him but what he thrives for. He truly evokes what it is to live an “experiential life”; a principle he speaks about so often. As the founder of several Inc. 500 companies, Jason has developed the recipe for building powerful organizations. Both in terms of revenue growth and corporate culture alike. With a combined staff of nearly 100 employees, Jason has shown that his passion for leadership is not only present but extremely effective as well. Jason’s athletic and philanthropic endeavors have proven to be of similar merit. In October 2014, he ran a record-breaking 859 miles across Texas, all in effort to raise awareness and money to combat human trafficking and child sex slavery. Over 30 marathons in 30 days, Jason did the unthinkable and proved mind over matter, just as he does in his professional career as well. During this inspirational and insightful chat, Jason and I discuss: The motivation behind running 30 marathons in 30 days The importance of asking, "what do I know more than anybody else?" How to scale a business Partnering with the best resources Leveraging branding and marketing to grow your business How to attract top talent to your business The difference between profit sharing and equity and much more Please Enjoy!

Head over to kitodelgado.com for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and links to valuable resources. “Winning scholarships is mostly about being able to tell your story and hitting the submit button.” – Henry Keculah, Jr. Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Henry Keculah, Jr. (@henrykeculahjr) Henry is the founder and CEO of 4.0 of Growth Productivity Accountability (4.0 GPA). Brought up in Houston, Texas, Henry was raised in a single-parent home by a mother who migrated to the U.S. from Liberia. He was a first-generation citizen, and attended school in Alief ISD. While in school, Henry had been completely unaware of the important role that class ranking and GPA played when it came to attending college. He also had never gone on a college tour prior to attending his university’s summer orientation. Upon graduating from The University of Texas, Henry was accepted into the Teach for America corps, with whom he served as a high school teacher in Houston. As an educator, Henry committed himself to giving his students the opportunities he had not had, so they would be better prepared for college. For example, he often took students on college tours to institutions throughout the United States. Even when he ended his tenure with Teach for America, he continued to take Houston-area students to college tours (like The University of Texas’s annual “Explore UT” event) on a yearly basis. In 2016, Henry decided to establish his own company, 4.0 GPA. He began at the micro- level by hosting college readiness workshops at community college for students and their parents. In the months to come, 4.0 GPA would expand to include workshops held within public school districts and established working partnerships with Houston-area charter schools. During this powerful and wide ranging chat, Henry and I discussed: The motivation behind starting 4.0 GPA, LLC Challenges first generation college students face When should students and their parents begin the college planning process (this may surprise you) Uncovering scholarships families may be aware of Don't be afraid to reach out to successful people for advise Leverage tools and organizations that allow you to grow your business with Importance of being patient and not giving up so easily and much more Please Enjoy!

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Stephen A. Hart (@stephenahart) Stephen A Hart is brand and marketing professional, serial entrepreneur, husband, father, believer and host of Trailblazers.FM Stephen is a highly sought after Digital Brand Strategist and Marketing Professional who LOVES to help individuals and businesses  design, build, and optimize their brand, digital/social media and marketing strategy. Stephen started Trailblazers.FM after growing frustrated with the media's portrayal of black people.  The negative tone, and those touted as role models for black children usually include athletes, musicians, and reality television personalities. Many black men and women re doing amazing things and Stephen has set out to share their stories for his children and yours too. During this easy going and wide ranging chat, Stephen and I discussed: The motivation behind starting Trailblazers.FM  His philosophy of pouring into others His branding formula: A + MVP His definition of branding Why it's important to brand yourself even if you don't own a business Tips to building a highly optimized website Balancing family,  career, and side hustle life Head over to kitodelgado.com for key takeaways, favorite quotes, and links to resources and books mentioned during today's episode. Please Enjoy!

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Tara James (@bymsjames).  When Tara was younger, her father would buy her greeting cards filled with black imagery and messaging she could relate to.  At the time, Tara felt the cards were "super corny," and never understood why giving her a card  with a black image gracing the cover and a message on the inside she could relate to, meant so much to her father. As is often the case, Tara's perspective has changed with time, particularly with the birth of her son. Like her father, Tara had a burning desire to recreate and (re)inspire others with positive and relatable images of black people.  By Ms James is a paper goods and greeting card company based on the real life experiences and adventures of Tara James. Like Tara, each card contains a funny, honest, quirky, lovable and extremely relatable message.  Her beliefs are her own but are shared with and by many.  I'm truly appreciative to Tara for calling  from her car, during her lunch break.  While the the reception was spotty at times but her overall message of taking action and making things happen is clear nonetheless.  During this fun and easygoing chat, Tara and I discussed: What prompted her to start a black themed paper and greeting card company Just getting started vs paralysis by analysis Balancing your career and your side hustle The mentor who challenges and helps hold Tara accountable to her business Consumer vs Producer mentality Throwing parties to raise money for her business Please Enjoy! visit kitodelgado.com for key key takeaways and links.

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Jonathan Jones (@jonathanjonesspeaks).  Millennials are easily the most scrutinized and misunderstood generation of my lifetime. Often labeled as entitled, self adsorbed, and lazy,   Jonathan is out to shatter these notions by living on purpose. He's on a mission to empower and inspire students and millennials with his weekly "Process to success series," keynote presentations, and student development sessions. Truly on a mission to help millennials and students achieve success, Jonathon wrote Process, 14 Surprisingly Simple Behaviors to Skyrocket Millennials to Success.   Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jonathan Jones is the youngest of two boys. Always encouraged by his loving parents to reach for the stars, Jonathan attended Richland College and played for the men’s 2009 Junior College National Championship basketball team while earning an Associate Degree. Jonathan has always had the heart to serve others but especially wants to facilitate youth to pursue a better tomorrow. In the pursuit of positivity, Jonathan founded the No Complain Campaign in 2014, which provides daily motivation and inspires others to be grateful. The platform bloomed from his sincere heart and love for youth. Expanding his ambition to help others maximize their God-given gifts, Jonathan earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Texas at Tyler and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in marital and family therapy at Southern Methodist University. Although Jonathan was not always as optimistic as he is these days, positivity is something he learned while working at less than ideal jobs and not always making the best decisions. Through these tough lessons, Jonathan was able to find his way, and now he influences and inspires youth and millennials everywhere! During this wide ranging conversation,  we discussed: Why he enjoys working with millennials Misconceptions of millennials The importance of establishing a process for how you govern yourself The time his boss said, "Johnathan, your attitude sucks," and how he responded. The birth of the "no complain campaign." The pain of an untold story The meaning of Process Doing the work while you're waiting And so much more… Please Enjoy!

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Greg Henzel, aka The Saving Swami (@savingswami).  A serial entrepreneur and ultimate hustler, Greg has always had a passion for building businesses from the ground up.  As Saving Swami, helping businesses and families save money is a top priority.  All businesses, large and small, can benefit from The Saving Swami’s negotiating expertise and complementary wise counsel. While at the bargaining table lowering your monthly invoices, the Swami will make sure there are no errors or mistakes made by your vendors. I enjoyed chatting with Greg, we covered a lot of ground, including: His definition of entrepreneurship Identifying the right mentor Having an all-in mentality Importance of failing forward The entrepreneurial mindset Doing business vs talking business How a car accident started the Saving Swami And so much more… Visit kitodelgado.com for all show notes and key takeaways  

Welcome back Story Tellers! Today’s main character is Anthony Guadagnino (@veteranmadeny).  Anthony (aka Guads) is a United States Marine Corps OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom) Veteran and current US Army SFC (Sergeant First Class). Anthony is also the owner and lead carpenter of Veteran Made Woodworks LLC.  This is a special edition of Get on the Box as I recorded our interview in person and uploaded it to my YouTube channel.   During this wide ranging conversation,  we discussed: How a simple D.I.Y. project served as a springboard to his business Why he wanted to be a Marine Best advise he's received from mentors Having an entrepreneurial mindset Making time for what's important How previous life experiences and jobs have helped him as a business owner The meaning behind each flag Learning on the go And so much more… Visit kitodelgado.com for show notes, links, and video of our interview Please Enjoy!