Just Press Record

In this episode of Just Press Record, Matt Zeigler reunites with Colossus CEO and Business Breakdowns host Matt Reustle for a conversation that blends media strategy, creative philosophy, and practical lessons on building meaningful content. Through a mix of insightful clips and behind-the-scenes thinking, Matt breaks down what separates content that merely entertains from content that truly transforms—and why it matters. If you're building an audience, publishing anything online, or trying to figure out how to deliver value with your ideas, this one's for you.Topics Covered:The meaning of "transformation" in content and why it's more than just entertainmentThe Disney origins of “infotainment” and its application in modern mediaWhy experience is the engine of transformationHow comedians and creators apply lessons from different industriesThe subtle art of self-promotion without self-congratulationCreating content for an “audience of one”—and how that scalesThe distribution “mechanics” vs. experiential deliveryWhy treating your audience with respect builds deeper relationshipsBusiness Breakdowns as a tool for investor insight and decision-makingLessons from David Senra, Rick Rubin, and even 90s game shows

Two accomplished writers. Two unique journeys. One unforgettable conversation.In this episode of Just Press Record, Matt Zeigler introduces Lara Crigger and Nina Badzin ( @dearninafriendship ) —two women who've never met but instantly click in a conversation that blends parenting, friendship, faith, and career twists. From NASA satellites and video game journalism to friendship advice and Torah study, Lara and Nina reveal how their upbringings shaped who they are, how they parent, and how they write.

In this special “Oh Snap, Guess What I Saw” edition of Just Press Record, Matt Zeigler welcomes back writer and thinker Eric Markowitz for a deep reflection on resilience, longevity, and the power of being unapologetically human in a digital age. Centered around a powerful clip from Christina Garnett and Vic Ruggiero, the conversation unpacks how meaningful connection—whether in business, creativity, or content creation—can help individuals and organizations outlast in a short-term obsessed world.

What happens when two women who've lived, led, and learned through fear, reinvention, and transformation meet for the first time? In this moving episode of Just Press Record, Nancy Burger and Julia Duthie share personal stories about stepping into the spotlight — one at 14, the other at 40 — and unpack what it really means to live authentically. From coming out later in life to healing childhood wounds, this conversation is packed with wisdom, honesty, and humor. Whether you're navigating career shifts, personal identity, or just trying to figure out how to show up fully, this one's for you.Topics Covered:The role of fear in personal growth and creative expressionNancy's story of overcoming stage fright at 40Julia's experience coming out at 50 and living authenticallyHow childhood experiences shape our adult narrativesThe link between vulnerability, leadership, and trustWhy being yourself everywhere is a superpowerHelping younger generations build confidence and resilienceThe power of storytelling, music, and embracing change

JPR: Bob Seawright & Jim Carroll - Financial Markets, Music, and Life LessonsIn this episode of JUST PRESS RECORD, host Matt Zeigler brings together two financial market experts who've never met: Bob Seawright (author of The Better Letter on Substack) and Jim Carroll (author of Vixology on Substack). Their conversation weaves through shared passions for music, writing, market insights, and life philosophy - from their morning music routines to the realization that "for every pathology there's a profession."Key Topics Covered:Music's influence on both guests' lives and workHow writing helps clarify thinking and connects with audiencesUnconventional career paths into financial marketsThe value of silence vs. background music for creative thinkingDiscovering personal limitations and finding your true pathCollege advice and educational experiencesRisk perception and decision-making frameworksFinding your niche in competitive environments

In this episode of JUST PRESS RECORD, host Matt Zeigler welcomes back Matt Ackermann, Chief Brand Officer at Integrated Partners, for an insightful discussion on brand building and storytelling. Triggered by a clip featuring David Burkus ( @DavidBurkus ) and Kit Huffman, the conversation explores how to develop memorable brands that stand out in a sea of sameness. From storytelling fundamentals to strategic brand development, Ackermann shares his unique VCR (Vision, Capability, Reach) framework and explains why understanding your audience is crucial for brand success.Topics Covered:The challenge of standing out versus blending in when building brandsThe fundamentals of storytelling and why they remain constant across platformsUnderstanding your audience before creating contentThe VCR framework: Vision, Capability, and Reach for brand developmentCreating effective through-lines in your contentHow to balance tension and resolution in storytellingThe importance of taking time for reflection and perspectiveWhy identity is emergent rather than an emergencyUsing top-down and bottom-up approaches in content creation

In this engaging and thought-provoking episode of Just Press Record, host Matt Zeigler introduces two guests who've never met before: musician and author Mishka Shubaly and financial crisis predictor turned entrepreneur/Punks and Pinstripes community founder Greg Larkin. Their conversation weaves through transformative musical experiences, sobriety journeys, post-9/11 New York City, corporate culture, and finding meaning in life's "second mountain." Listen as these two seemingly different paths reveal surprising parallels about authenticity, purpose, and redefining success.Main Topics Covered:Transformative musical experiences and how live music creates moments of profound personal changeSobriety journeys and navigating social spaces while maintaining recoveryPost-9/11 New York City and the unexpected beauty of human connection amid tragedyThe concept of the "second mountain" - finding purpose after achieving conventional successCan you be a "punk" while working in corporate culture or finance?Finding joy in the present moment and learning to appreciate what you haveOpening yourself to unexpected "miracle windows" rather than chasing specific outcomes

Join Matt Zeigler as he welcomes back author, coach, and poet Sean Delaney for this special "Oh Snap, Guess What I Saw" episode of Just Press Record. Matt shares a thought-provoking clip from Dylan O'Sullivan about storytelling principles and explores with Sean how these concepts apply to coaching, personal growth, and the stories we tell ourselves that shape our lives.Topics Covered:How storytelling principles apply to both fiction and personal developmentThe handful of stories that dictate how we live our entire livesMoving from unconscious to conscious awareness of our internal narrativesCarl Jung's idea that "until you make the unconscious conscious, it'll guide your life and you'll call it fate"Sean's approach to coaching and the importance of awarenessThe creative process behind Sean's book "When Life Begins to Whisper"How intention, presence, and reflection form the foundation of profound workFinding the underlying principles rather than focusing on techniques

In this thought-provoking episode of Just Press Record, Matt Zeigler brings together two fascinating individuals - Steve Willison, an HR executive with a passion for martial arts and stoic philosophy, and Mark Newfield, a financial advisor and thought leader. Their conversation reveals striking parallels in their life philosophies, professional approaches, and personal journeys, touching on stoicism, boundaries, the power of curiosity, and the importance of doing good in the world.Main Topics Covered:The many roles we all play in life and how to manage themStoic philosophy as a personal operating systemUnderstanding what's in your control versus what you can only influenceThe power of doing one good thing for one decent human being each dayProgress not perfection - embracing growth over flawlessnessHow our greatest strengths can also be our greatest weaknessesThe superpower of neurodiversity and reframing ADHDThe value of lifelong learning and curiositySetting boundaries and learning when to say "no"The importance of integrity in everything you do

Matthew Stafford on Showing Up with Soul | Just Press Record PodcastIn this special "Oh, Snap! Guess What I Saw" episode of the Just Press Record podcast, host Matt Zeigler welcomes back the "007 in any group of 9 others," Matthew Stafford, for an insightful and heartfelt conversation. Together, they dive into a powerful clip from a previous episode featuring Rusty Guinn and Cara Brookins, exploring the timeless wisdom of "always go to the funeral" and what it means to show up for the people who matter—whether it's at a funeral, a friend's speech, or during life's toughest moments. Matthew shares personal stories, including the impact of losing his father in 2018 and the unexpected connections that carried him through, alongside his philosophy of being "default helpful" in life and business. From his 13+ years running "Find Your 9others"- a global networking community - to his ventures in VC and beyond, Matthew unpacks how trusting your gut, building high-quality relationships, and letting the "pot simmer" can lead to serendipitous magic. Expect a mix of deep reflections, practical wisdom, and a few laughs as Matt and Matthew explore how showing up with soul compounds into a life well-lived. Stick around to hear Matthew guess why this clip was a must-share, and find out how to connect with him on X (@m_stafford) and beyond.

Join host Matt Zeigler on Just Press Record from Cultish Creative as he brings together two fascinating guests for the first(ish) time: Matt Reustle, CEO of Colossus and host of the Business Breakdowns podcast ( @joincolossus ), meets John Candeto, founder of Phronesis Fund and host of The Art of Quality podcast  @TheArtofQuality-AoQ ) on this episode! In this captivating conversation. Matt and John explore the intersections of storytelling, wisdom, and the human experience—from bedtime stories to multi-generational travel adventures. With a blend of personal anecdotes, philosophical insights, and reflections on time as a filter for truth, this episode is a treasure trove of ideas for anyone curious about how we shape our lives and legacies. Don't miss this dynamic discussion that bridges business, creativity, and the pursuit of meaning.Main Topics Covered:Bedtime Stories and Classics: Matt and John share their approaches to storytelling for their kids, emphasizing the enduring value of classics and the role of imagination in creating memorable narratives.Travel as a Transformative Experience: From Patagonia to Ireland's Torr Head Road, the trio recounts awe-inspiring travel moments that reshape perspectives and connect generations.The Power of Senses in Storytelling: A deep dive into how sensory experiences—like smell and sound—tie into memories and enhance the stories we tell ourselves and others.Time as a Filter for Truth: John's concept of time as a powerful filter sparks a discussion on durability, legacy, and what lasts across generations, from leather goods to music.Nuance vs. Polarization: Matt Reustle reflects on the death of nuance in a polarized world, while John ties it to the pursuit of wisdom and understanding complex systems.AI and Human Creativity: The group debates whether AI can replicate human inspiration, using examples like The Beatles' “Yesterday” to explore the limits of technology.Career Evolution and Aspirations: Matt and John recount their childhood dreams and how their professional paths evolved, connecting personal passions to their current work.Periods and Pyramids: Inspired by Chris Abdelmessih, they discuss balancing short-term projects (periods) with long-term legacies (pyramids) in life and work.

In this insightful episode of Just Press Record on the Cultish Creative YouTube channel, host Matt Zeigler welcomes back Mark McCartney ( @whatisagoodlife ) for a thought-provoking conversation sparked by a clip featuring Phil Pearlman  @PhilipPearlman ) and Jessica Yarmey ( @SizzleSociety ) . The discussion explores the profound idea that enlightenment might simply be remembering what was always there within us, rather than adding something new.Key Topics:The concept that self-development is about revealing what's innate rather than constructing or adding to ourselvesHow paying attention to life's natural fluctuations helps us find flowThe evolution from rigid mindfulness practices to a more integrated awareness of everyday lifeThe relationship between presence, attention, and loveMark's journey of self-acceptance and how it transformed his relationship with himselfThe power of giving attention to others and ourselvesThe connection between Mark and previous guest Sean DeLaney (author of "When Life Begins to Whisper")Reflections on Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" as a source of affirmation (cc:  @Justin_Castelli  )

Want to grow your network? You're in the right place: Watch brand consultant Elie Jacobs and former investigative journalist turned hedge fund analyst Eric Markowitz as they meet for the first time ever! Only on "Just Press Record" - hosted by Matt Zeigler, right here on the Cultish Creative YouTube channel. Their discussion explores the critical distinctions between brand and reputation, the nature of risk in business and life, and the enduring value of authentic relationships in an increasingly digital world.Topics Covered:Brand vs. Reputation: The crucial difference between what companies say about themselves and what others perceive, with Elie introducing his concept of "risk aperture" to describe the dangerous gap between these narratives.Crisis Communication: How professional communicators like Elie work to align brand promises with actual delivery, using "red teaming" to identify vulnerabilities before they become public relations disasters.Business Longevity: Eric's research into companies that have survived for centuries reveals patterns of deep community connection, craftsmanship, and prioritizing relationships over rapid scaling.Technology's Impact on Human Interaction: Both guests explore how smartphones, AI, and automation are fundamentally reshaping human relationships, with potential consequences for how we develop connections and trust.The Value of Serendipity: Discussion about how unplanned encounters and meandering exploration lead to breakthrough ideas that structured, AI-assisted thinking might miss.Risk Assessment: Comparing Elie's crisis management approach to risk with Eric's investor perspective on conviction and decision-making under uncertainty.The Theranos Case Study: Analysis of how Elizabeth Holmes might have saved her company by being truthful about technological limitations rather than exaggerating capabilities.In-Person vs. Digital Connections: The irreplaceable value of face-to-face meetings in building trust, generating ideas, and creating resilient business relationships.Generational Divides: How different age groups approach technology, with concern about younger generations lacking foundational skills as AI increasingly handles cognitive tasks.Community Embeddedness: Examples of how businesses that maintain strong local ties receive support during crises, creating mutual benefit systems that transcend purely transactional relationships.This thought-provoking conversation reveals why understanding the stories we tell—and the stories we're told—is crucial for navigating risk, building trust, and creating lasting value in business and life.

In this episode of "Just Press Record" on Cultish Creative, host Matt Zeigler brings together two fascinating thinkers for an engaging conversation about curiosity, burnout, and creative processes.The episode features Chris Mayer, an investor, author of books like "How Do You Know" and "100 Baggers," and advocate of general semantics - a discipline focused on understanding the assumptions behind our abstractions. Joining him is Anne-Laure Le Cunff, founder of Ness Labs and author of "Tiny Experiments," who shares insights from her journey from Google burnout to creating a thriving learning community.Throughout their conversation, Chris and Anne-Laure explore how they navigate creative projects, from recognizing when an idea has critical mass to managing feedback while preserving one's vision. They discuss the value of journaling to track evolving thoughts, the power of learning in public, and how attractors naturally pull us toward certain ideas.Both guests share practical wisdom about battling burnout, harnessing curiosity as a habit, and finding the delicate balance between structure and serendipity in creative work. Whether you're interested in metacognition, creative processes, or personal knowledge management, this episode offers valuable insights on becoming "the scientist of your own life."

Join host Matt Zeigler as he brings together two fascinating minds from the world of finance who've carved unique paths beyond the trading desk. Kris Abdelmessih (former SIG trader turned writer and founder of Moontower.ai) and Morgan Ranstrom (wealth advisor and frontman of Stone Arch Rivals) explore what it means to live authentically while building a life of purpose.This wide-ranging conversation starts with their contrasting personalities - Kris, the gregarious New Jersey native turned Californian who thrives on human connection, and Morgan, the contemplative North Dakotan turned Minnesotan who needs space to process and create. Their discussion weaves through formative musical influences (from 80s hair metal to Warren Haynes), the challenges of performing despite their different comfort levels with the spotlight, and how they're intentionally showing their children what it means to be "switched on" and engaged with life.The heart of their conversation centers on authenticity and purpose. Kris shares his philosophy of being the same person in every context, while Morgan explores how different "masks" might actually lead to deeper truth. Both men offer profound insights on parenting, the tension between preserving innocence and preparing children for reality, and the importance of helping kids find paths that truly match who they are.Through stories of trading floors, music stages, client meetings, and family moments, they illustrate how success in finance can coexist with creative pursuits and meaningful relationships. This isn't just another conversation about markets or money - it's an honest exploration of building a life that honors both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.Whether you're in finance, interested in personal growth, or simply curious about how others navigate life's big questions, this episode offers valuable perspectives on living authentically in an increasingly complex world.

In this engaging episode for 2025, host Matt Zeigler brings together two fascinating minds in the business world: David Burkus, a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, and Kit Huffman, a rising star in executive personal branding. Their conversation weaves through surprising territory, from Kit's unusual start networking with angel investors at age 14 to David's journey from stocking grocery shelves to becoming a leading voice in team dynamics. The discussion explores how leaders find and communicate their mission, why some companies lose their way as they scale, and what it means to build a business that truly reflects your values. David shares insights from his work helping teams rediscover their purpose, while Kit offers a behind-the-scenes look at how executives can authentically connect with their audiences. They challenge conventional wisdom about business growth, with both guests making compelling cases for staying small and focused rather than scaling at all costs. Some highlights include: The worst networking advice everyone gets (and why it fails) How companies lose their story as they grow beyond founder interaction Why some executive LinkedIn posts feel like "stale crackers" and how to fix that The delicate balance between business growth and maintaining personal priorities Why looking "backwards forward" can help clarify your mission The value of finding unoccupied space in your industry This conversation goes beyond typical business advice to explore how both leaders and companies can chart paths that align with their authentic goals rather than conventional expectations. Perfect for entrepreneurs, executives, or anyone interested in building meaningful work while staying true to themselves.

Join host Matt Zeigler for a fascinating conversation with Jason Buck (volatility hedge fund manager) and Roger Mitchell (former EMI music executive and Scottish Premier League CEO, turned sports industry consultant) as they dive deep into the business of sports, entertainment, and culture. This wide-ranging discussion explores everything from the economics of European football and the challenges of sports ownership to the parallels between the music industry and professional sports. Roger shares insights from his unique career journey and discusses why American-style closed leagues might be the future of European sports. Jason brings his perspective on financial markets, models, and survival strategies for local teams in a global (and very online) world. Not to mention, this episode is worth more than a few laughs! Key topics include: The cultural dynamics of football clubs like Celtic vs Rangers Why smart business people often make irrational decisions in sports The impact of streaming and piracy on sports media rights The future of sports entertainment and fan engagement The importance of community in local sports clubs The challenges of maintaining profitable sports businesses Whether you're interested in sports business, investment strategy, or the entertainment industry, this conversation offers unique insights from two experts with fascinating career paths and perspectives.

Seven standout moments from Just Press Record's first year, curated by host Matt Zeigler. Starting with the power of small acts over institutional loyalty, moving through engaging conversations about artistic co-creation, personal change, balancing structure with spontaneity, authentic relationship building, and ending with a powerful lesson on being present that will hit you like a lightning bolt... Each clip celebrates the show's core mission: showing you how to play more deeply with your networks of both ideas and people. As my Cultish Creative blog turns 7 years old, these moments showcase why connecting with others in meaningful ways, and, taking the time to reflect on those interactions, matters more than ever. Watch the full breakdown with timestamps for each featured guest: Ben Hunt & Paul Millerd on Make, Protect, Teach Dave Nadig & Angie Colee on co-creation Julia Carreon & Hal Hershfield on personal change Josh Spector & Dennis Moseley-Williams on balancing structure and spontaneity Vic Ruggiero & Christina Garnett on authentic connection Kara Brookins & Rusty Guinn on showing up for others Sean DeLaney & Mark McCartney on being present

In this episode of Just Press Record, host Matt Zeigler brings together two insightful thinkers who've never met before: Dylan O'Sullivan, a literary editor known for his existential musings, and Luca Dellanna, author of "Ergodicity" and other works on long-term decision-making. Their wide-ranging conversation explores the delicate balance between performance and survival, the nature of storytelling in both fiction and non-fiction, and how to make choices that are "not optimal, but compatible" with both short and long-term wellbeing. The discussion weaves through topics like the evolution of friendships from high school to adulthood, the challenge of pursuing greatness while maintaining balance, and the art of writing for impact rather than attention. Particularly moving is Luca's story about how a cancer diagnosis shaped his perspective on time horizons, and Dylan's insights into the craft of editing and storytelling. Whether you're interested in writing, decision-making, or simply living a more thoughtful life, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on how to navigate the complexities of modern existence. Join us for a deep dive into what it means to play the long game while staying true to yourself in the present moment.

Just Press Record brings together Cara Brookins, author of "Rise: How a House Built a Family," and Rusty Guinn of Epsilon Theory for a fascinating conversation about building things that matter. Cara shares her incredible story of building a 3,500 square foot house from scratch with her four children using only YouTube tutorials, while Rusty discusses transforming a historic 1763 property into a thriving apple orchard and cidery. The conversation weaves through themes of stubborn optimism, the importance of tangible creation in a digital age, and how the people who truly matter in our lives show up even when they think we're making a mistake. From hauling concrete in wheelbarrows to splitting wood at midnight for the perfect Texas brisket, we explore how physical labor connects us to something deeper than just the end product. Cara and Rusty offer profound insights into how social networks are changing human consciousness, the value of finding your "ride or die" tribe of 120 people, and why sometimes the most authentic path forward requires getting your hands dirty. Whether you're interested in homesteading, writing, craft cider, or just finding your place in an increasingly digital world, this conversation has something for everyone who believes in building things that last. A Cultish Creative production exploring what happens when we choose to "do something" rather than just "be something."

On this episode of Just Press Record, I bring together two fascinating guests who've never met but share an uncanny ability to transform audiences through their work - Josh Spector and Dennis Moseley-Williams. Josh ( @JoshSpectorVideos ) has built his career helping people get clients from their content, running a wildly successful daily newsletter "For The Interested" and coaching creators on growing their audiences. Dennis ( @seriousshift ), a keynote speaker and author, helps turn brands into cults by making CEOs into charismatic leaders and services into memorable experiences. Watch as these two masters of audience engagement discover their shared philosophies on authenticity, the power of word choice, and why "don't be boring" might be the cardinal rule of business. From Seth Godin's influence to surprising stories about Norm MacDonald, this conversation weaves through fascinating territory about what it means to truly connect with and transform an audience. We explore: Why the smallest viable audience might be better than mass appeal The importance of being true to yourself in business How comedians perfect their craft and why it matters for business Why self-promotion can be a selfless act The art of charging what you're worth Whether you're a creator, business leader, or someone interested in the psychology of audience engagement, this conversation offers valuable insights on how to matter more to the people who matter most. Subscribe to Cultish Creative for more conversations that make curiosity a habit.

I've got something special for you today - a conversation that genuinely gave me goosebumps. I brought together Sean DeLaney (host of "What Got You There" /  @WhatGotYouThere  ) and Mark McCartney (host of "What is a Good Life" /  @whatisagoodlife  ) for their first-ever meeting, and what unfolded was nothing short of electric. We dive deep into what it means to live authentically and in rhythm with yourself. From Mark's “lightning bolt” moment that led him to leave finance, to Sean's insights on self-mastery and presence, this conversation explores the territory of real wisdom - not the kind you just read about, but the kind you have to live to understand. Both guests share personal stories about finding silence in a noisy world, being present with their children, and navigating life's challenges with grace. We explore how truth has its own vibration, why pain can be a teacher, and what it means to truly see and be seen by others. If you're wrestling with big questions about living well, finding your path, or just trying to be more present in your daily life, I think you'll find something valuable here. This isn't about quick fixes or life hacks - it's about the deeper journey of becoming more fully yourself. As always, stick around for the disclaimers at the end, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to help others find these conversations too. Stay curious, Matt

CT Reese of @WatchWithCT and Frazer Rice of @Frazerrice1873 are BACK for a continuation of our prior conversation about horror movies, genre flicks, and why EVERYBODY can learn something from the murder, mayhem, and monsters of the (silver? cell phone? where do people watch movies now?!) screen(s)!

I was so excited to introduce these two, here's why: Matthew Stafford thinks of himself an introvert, and yet he's been hosting 10 person startup founder dinners, once a month, for 13+ years(!). Matt Ackermann is a self-described extrovert, gracing conference stages and making content for decades, with a community service attitude like few others I know (ex. coaching, PorchFest, etc.!). Plus, they're both music nerds. AND, they'd never met. Until now. We delved into several fascinating topics, including: The power of helping others without expecting anything in return The importance of collecting, curating, and connecting people and ideas How to build and maintain valuable networks The art of being a good conversationalist in networking settings Embracing failure as a stepping stone to success The value of trusting your gut instincts in business and life Matthew Stafford shared insights from his "Nine Others" initiative, which brings together entrepreneurs to share challenges and support one another. Matt Ackerman discussed his experiences in the financial advisory world and his community-building efforts through events like PorchFest. We also had some fun discussing our desert island music picks and reminiscing about our first websites. The conversation highlighted the importance of curiosity, compounding goodwill, and being a champion for your ideas and community. Overall, this episode was a fantastic exploration of how to build meaningful connections, foster creativity, and make a positive impact in both business and personal life. I'm grateful to have had these two insightful guests on the show, and I hope our viewers found the conversation as enriching as I did.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I'm diving into the world of ska music and behavioral psychology with two fascinating guests: Aaron Carnes, author of "In Defense of Ska," and Dr. Daniel Crosby, author of "The Soul of Wealth." We explore: The cultural impact and misconceptions surrounding ska music The psychology behind musical subcultures and identity How popularity can change the perception of a genre The balance between sincerity and irony in music and life Generational differences in expressing emotions and dealing with mental health The importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing vulnerability We also touch on some surprising connections between ska, punk, and even financial psychology! Whether you're a music enthusiast, psychology buff, or just curious about subcultures, this episode has something for everyone.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I've brought together two incredible minds who've never met before and an incredibly inspiring conversation ensued. Meet Dr. Hal Hershfield, the future self guru from UCLA, and Julia Carreon, a thought-leader in finance and technology. We dive deep into how we see what Hal's research calls our "future selves" and why it matters. Julia shares her journey of quitting a high-profile job to pursue a passion project, and then pivoting again. Hal breaks down the psychology behind these big life decisions, and we explore how generations from Boomers to Gen Z are reshaping the workplace. We tackle some heavy topics too, like the challenges women face in male-dominated fields and how to bridge the gap between generations in family businesses. But don't worry, we keep it light with some unexpected detours into pop culture (who knew a cartoon dog named Bluey could teach us so much about society?). Whether you're plotting your next career move, trying to understand your kids (or your parents), or just love a good conversation about human nature, this episode's got something for you. So grab a drink, press play, and let's get curious together!

In this episode, I bring together two incredible guests: Phil Pearlman, founder of the Pearl Institute, and Jessica Yarmey, founder of the Flex Society. I love connecting people from different worlds, and this conversation didn't disappoint. We dive deep into aligning our personal values with our professional lives, exploring how Phil and Jessica have each navigated this journey in their unique ways. We cover so much ground in this chat: How Phil and Jessica found authenticity in their careers after periods of misalignment Building real, meaningful communities in fitness and personal development The power (and challenges) of being vulnerable on social media Moving beyond traditional goal-setting to find true purpose The art of letting go and embracing new chapters What I love about these two is how openly they share both their successes and struggles. Whether you're into psychology, fitness, marketing, or just figuring out your path in life, I think you'll find some real gems in this conversation.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of bringing together two fascinating guests: Christina Garnett, a fractional chief customer officer, and Victor Ruggiero, a musician from the ska-punk band The Slackers. Our conversation covered a wide range of topics, from the challenges of maintaining a long-term music career to the importance of authenticity in building community and connecting with fans. We explored how both the music industry and tech world grapple with burnout, creativity, and the struggle to remain genuine in an increasingly commodified landscape. Christina offered valuable insights on leveraging social media to engage with audiences, while Victor shared entertaining stories from his decades in the music scene. Throughout the discussion, we uncovered surprising parallels between building fan bases in music and cultivating customer relationships in business, ultimately highlighting the universal importance of human connection and inspiration across different fields.

BE MORE MID. No, seriously. Or at least come listen to this discussion of why the nuance and nostalgia around mid-ness might just save the world. Scott Bradlee is kind of a professional nostalgia pusher.  Postmodern Jukebox has been flipping songs into older styles and genres for multi-generational audiences for over 10 years now. Their tagline is “Todays Hits Yesterday.” It works, in that the band can can sell out rooms all over the world, and - with a cool 6.25 million YouTube followers - they're well represented in rooms they're not even physically in too. I've always wanted to ask him why he thinks it works as well as it does. It can't just be Nickelback sounding better as a Motown act. Or can it?  Then there's Kyla Scanlon. In her new book (reviewed here!) she's taking her concept of “the uncertainty cake” and applying it across economic history.  A quick synopsis of the uncertainty cake idea: If Reality and Expectations are the outer layers of the cake, then the middle connective filling can be described as Theory, which covers as much as it can, but is boringly unpoetic until you add the secret ingredient to every great recipe, love VIBES. As an educator and commentator, on not just the economy, but markets and culture at the largest scales, Kyla Scanlon is kind of a professional nuance pusher. Where else but Just Press Record are you going to get professional nostalgia pushing Scott Bradlee and professional nuance pushing Kyla Scanlon on stage, in conversation, comparing and contrasting the details of each other's work? We talked about: How nostalgia works in cycles Reboot culture vs. remix culture What happens when the past becomes more unpredictable than the future How to look back without being “period-correct” (and why that fresh insight can work) The role community plays in experiencing art (and everything, really) Why it's so hard, and so so so important to BE MORE MID Why compressing time and giving access to damn near everything ever is a form of risk mitigation that might not be helping humanity these days And so much more. I mean, Chumbawamba even gets a shoutout in here. You couldn't possibly imagine a more diverse 40-minute conference talk than this. Maybe you missed it at Epsilon Connect, but Cultish Creative on YouTube is here for you now. Be sure to like, subscribe, follow, share, and all the social media things, but more than anything, please (watch and) LISTEN. These ideas are profound. Scott and Kyla are so articulate, and they're such deep thinkers, spending this time with them - it brought me so much joy. I'm so excited to share it with you here and now: But wait, there's more! Well, more thank you's. Extra special thanks to Ben Hunt, Rusty Guinn, Harper, Alex, Rafa, and everybody else who put Epsilon Connect 2024 together. You all, with FABLE (The Foundation for Applied Bio Linguistic Exploration) and Vanderbilt too, created the space for conversations like this to happen in public. Incredible. Extra extra special shoutouts to Steve Ujfalussy at Pinnacle Creative Productions and Jack Forehand for their production wizardry too! Can't wait to share some more of the footage you helped capture and curate.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I had the pleasure of hosting Ted Merz, a prolific writer and storyteller, and Dr. Meghaan Lurtz, an expert in behavioral psychology and change. We dove deep into the fascinating world of the transtheoretical model of change, exploring how people navigate through different stages of behavioral transformation. Our conversation weaved through personal anecdotes, from dental hygiene habits to life-changing decisions, illustrating the complex interplay between emotions, behavior, and storytelling in the process of change. We discussed the impact of data and technology on our self-perceptions and the stories we tell ourselves. I was particularly struck by how our guests' different perspectives - Ted's intuitive, story-driven approach and Meg's analytical, research-based view - complemented each other, offering a rich, multifaceted exploration of how humans adapt and evolve. This episode truly highlighted the universal nature of change and the power of understanding its processes in our personal and professional lives.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Angie Colee and Dave Nadig for an engaging conversation about music, creativity, and personal growth. We explored topics ranging from mosh pit etiquette to karaoke experiences, and delved into the importance of embracing authenticity in both personal and professional spheres. Both guests shared insightful stories about their musical journeys and how these experiences have shaped their approaches to business and life. We uncovered some profound lessons about ego dissolution, the co-creative nature of public performance, and the transformative power of embracing our true selves.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I had the pleasure of chatting with two fantastic guests: CT Thomas, the host of the "Watch with CT" YouTube channel, and Frazer Rice, a wealth advisor and fellow movie enthusiast. We delved into the world of horror movies, discussing the importance of the three-act structure, the impact of character deaths, and the art of subverting tropes to keep audiences engaged. Our conversation also touched on the role of star power versus character actors, the nostalgia of VHS covers, and the significance of storytelling in both the entertainment industry and in our personal lives. It was a thrilling discussion that showcased the power of movies to evoke emotions and connect people through a shared language of storytelling.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I dive deep into the complex topic of personal growth with my guests Justin Castelli and Adam Bruderly. We explore how traumatic experiences, both big and small, can serve as catalysts for change when combined with supportive relationships and a willingness to make difficult choices. Through sharing our own stories and insights, we uncover the importance of recognizing the "ingredients" for growth that are often right in front of us, even if we don't always see them. Together, we discover that the path to living an authentic life is paved with moments of discomfort, learning, and the acceptance that perfection is unattainable. Join us as we navigate the winding road of personal development and uncover the power of choice in shaping our journeys.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I dive deep into the dynamic nature of confidence with two incredible guests: Grace Nikae, a fractional marketer and recovered classical music prodigy, and Peter Atwater, a financial expert and the author of "The Confidence Map." Together, we explore the interplay between certainty and control, discuss the artistic process, and uncover the importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. We also delve into the difference between authenticity and vulnerability, and how leaders can better understand and support their employees. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that will leave you reflecting on your own journey with confidence.

In this episode of Just Press Record, I invited Ben Hunt and Paul Millerd to discuss the power of community building and rejecting societal scripts. We explore the concepts of "raccoons" (grifters) and "coyotes" (ambitious individuals) in various industries and look at the importance of authenticity and finding like-minded individuals to form genuine connections. We also discuss the challenges of raising children while maintaining a sense of community and the value of pursuing small-scale, meaningful experiences that satisfy ambition without succumbing to the pitfalls of industrially necessary systems.

In the second episode of Just Press Record, I had the pleasure of inviting Brian Portnoy, a behavioral finance expert, and Mat Cashman, an options trading specialist, to join me for a discussion on the concept of optionality in decision-making. Our conversation delved into the importance of having choices in life, the challenges of navigating uncertainty, and the role of self-awareness in making meaningful decisions. My guests shared insights from their respective fields, drawing fascinating parallels between options trading and personal decision-making, emphasizing the value of accumulating affordable, slightly out-of-the-money options in various aspects of life. We also explored the concept of "funded contentment," the pursuit of a meaningful life, and the courage to challenge one's evolving sense of identity. I found this podcast to be truly thought-provoking, offering practical advice for those seeking to make better decisions and lead more fulfilling lives.

In this podcast, Jess Bost, Tom Morgan and I dive into the concept of best self versus favorite self that Robin Arzon introduced in her interview with Adam Grant. We explore how trauma can spark transformative life changes, the importance of narrowing your focus to what's most fulfilling even if it goes against societal expectations, and the role mentors play in giving people space to flourish. We also discuss team dynamics, communication, and how the hero's journey plays out in group settings. Ultimately, it's about aligning your personal identity, finding your niche in a diverse ecosystem, and letting go of external pressures to move from a "best self" to "favorite self" mentality. Hope you find our discussion insightful and thought-provoking.