Million Dollar Relationships

What if the connection that saves your life was nine years in the making, and you had no idea it was coming? In this episode, Scott Rammage shares how a chain of relationships built over nearly a decade led him to the doctor who restored his health when no one else could. Scott is the owner of HireVP, a virtual professionals agency that recruits, places, and fully supports experienced overseas staff for business owners across the U.S. and Australia. He spent 17 years learning the hard way what it costs to try to do everything yourself, losing money and time with his family in the process, before building a business model designed to give other entrepreneurs the freedom he struggled so long to find. HireVP has grown entirely through referrals and relationships, with zero advertising spend. Scott lives in Dallas with his wife and sons. The relationship that transformed Scott's life: Carl, an executive coach who mentioned his brother almost in passing at the end of their first meeting. That brother was a functional neurologist, one of only 300 in the world with that specialty. Months later, when a mysterious neurological episode left Scott non-functional for weeks and regular doctors had no answers, Carl made the call. His brother took Scott from barely functional to nearly fully recovered in four days. The chain that led to Carl stretched back nine years through three other people, starting with a client Scott met in the fitness industry.   [00:02:44] George Rivera: The Introduction Behind This Episode George Rivera connected Kevin and Scott, and Kevin calls any intro from George an automatic yes. Both agree a trust-based introduction beats every other way of meeting someone. It is proof that the right relationship cuts through instantly. [00:03:43] What Scott Does: HireVP and the Freedom He Was Chasing Scott runs HireVP, placing and supporting experienced virtual professionals for business owners. They go beyond typical VA services by staying involved with both sides long-term. It is all driven by Scott's mission to give owners the freedom he spent 17 years chasing himself. [00:04:42] Why He Does It: The Price He Paid First Scott started his first business in 2004 while still teaching full-time. He spent 17 years making costly mistakes and robbing his family of time and attention. His greatest joy now is shortening that learning curve for other owners. [00:07:55] The Origin of HireVP: Hold My Beer A contractor told Scott he needed a VA, then said he would never succeed with one. He took it as a challenge, went all in on overseas hiring, and had three full-time VAs within three months. A colleague asked to borrow one, Scott charged a rate, and a business was born. [00:11:40] The Breaking Point That Built a Better Model Scott lost 70% of recurring revenue almost overnight after buying out his business partner. His 17-year-old son told him he just wished his dad would finally get paid what he was worth. He charged a doctor $500 to find and train a VA just for her, knocked it out of the park, and kept getting referrals. Seeing clients fail after placement showed him full support was the missing piece, and HireVP was born. [00:16:40] The First VA, Nine Years Later His very first VA still works for him and is now at university in Florida, with Scott sponsoring her. When asked why she enrolled, she said she wanted to bring more value back to the company. He calls this kind of impact the thing that feeds him every day. [00:21:40] Carl's Brother: The Connection That Saved His Life Scott hired executive coach Carl, who mentioned his brother, a functional neurologist, almost as an afterthought. Months later Scott was falling without tripping, slurring words, and freezing mid-step, with doctors finding nothing wrong. Carl helped run the business for six weeks, then connected Scott with his brother, who had him nearly fully recovered in four days. The doctor told Scott there are only 300 practitioners with that specialty in the world. [00:26:40] What He Learned About How He Is Wired The neurologist showed Scott that his drive to fix everyone's problems is the same thing that built his businesses. Learning to manage that wiring rather than be destroyed by it has been a major personal shift. He now sees it as his duty to pass on hard-won lessons so others move through similar things faster. [00:32:22] Final Thought: Play the Long Game Networking well is a superpower, but most people try to force it too fast. His advice: slow down to speed up, and focus on the relationship, not what it might bring you. Someone recently messaged him about a podcast from three years ago that had already sent two paying clients his way.   KEY QUOTES "I get no better satisfaction in business than helping other business owners really achieve that little bit of freedom from the chaos they created when they started." - Scott Rammage "Don't just make a connection. Your goal with that connection should be leaving that person with something that will improve their life. No reciprocity. Have a goal of giving only, and that will absolutely work." - Scott Rammage "Slow down to speed up. Just start meeting people and don't try to push the relationship for a connection. Push the relationship for a relationship." - Scott Rammage CONNECT WITH SCOTT RAMMAGE

What if losing everything was actually the beginning of your greatest chapter? In this episode, Jeff Martinovich shares an extraordinary story of building and losing a billion-dollar wealth management firm and then fighting his way back from federal prison. Jeff is the founder and former CEO of MICG Investment Management, which grew to over $1 billion in assets and 100 associates in Newport News, Virginia. After the 2008 financial crisis triggered regulatory scrutiny, Jeff refused three federal plea offers, went to trial against the U.S. government, and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. But that wasn't the end. Representing himself with a number-two pencil and a manual typewriter from the prison law library, Jeff filed over 500 motions, had trial court decisions reversed five times, and got two federal judges removed, walking free nearly seven years early. Today he advises 19 companies, speaks to CEO groups worldwide, and is the author of When Not If: A CEO's Guide to Overcoming Adversity, published by Forbes Books in January 2024. Jeff lives in Norfolk, Virginia with his wife Ashley and their young children. The relationship that transformed Jeff's life: his wife Ashley. She had worked in his mortgage company years before his conviction, and about a year and a half into his prison sentence, she sent him a love letter out of the blue, saying she had always loved him and would stand by him until they won. She then drove seven hours each way to visit him once a month for seven years in what Jeff describes as a horrific prison visiting room. On the day he was released, she was waiting at the front gates to bring him home. They are now married with a young daughter, Carly, a miracle Jeff says he never deserved and considers his greatest motivation.   [00:03:40] Kurt and Kristen LudHart: The Introduction That Started It All Kevin credits Kurt and Kristen LudHart for connecting him with Jeff Jeff agrees on the power of trust-based introductions cutting through surface-level noise Demonstrates how the right relationships open doors quickly and authentically [00:04:43] What Jeff Does Today: Rebuilding After Ruin Now works with a portfolio of 19 companies, helping CEOs and management teams grow Has a team of experienced advisors; also runs a law firm and investment funds Focused on helping owners create secure jobs, community impact, and charity support Describes the last five years as a full business resurrection [00:08:02] The Backstory: Air Force Academy to Billion-Dollar Firm Attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, served at Langley Air Force Base during the First Gulf War Got his MBA at night while at Langley, then entered finance as a rookie cold-calling stockbroker Built MICG Investment Management in Newport News, VA to over $1 billion in assets and 100 associates Grew to include three hedge funds, a mortgage company, insurance company, and real estate firm [00:08:48] The 2008 Crisis and the Government Comes Knocking The 2008 financial crisis triggered regulatory crackdowns on approximately 2,000 second-tier firms MICG was too large to avoid the radar and too small to write a $200 million check to make regulators move on Jeff was offered three federal plea deals and refused all three Sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after a five-week trial [00:11:20] The Prison Law Library and 500 Motions Sent to a violent prison in New Jersey, not the minimum-security facility typical for white-collar cases Began helping other inmates with their cases, filing over 300 motions for others Through this service, taught himself federal criminal law entirely by doing Filed over 500 motions in his own case using a number-two pencil and a manual typewriter [00:12:50] The Three Pillars That Got Him Through Physical: committed to 1% improvement every day, weights and running the track, not just for protection but for endorphins and the energy to stay proactive Intellectual: read 26 classics from the prison library and discovered a love of literature he never would have found otherwise Spiritual: read the Bible front to back multiple times; got into yoga and meditation to channel his anger into something productive Key mindset: treat adversity like a marathon, not a sprint, because it will take way longer than you think [00:18:26] The Academy Roommate: From Prison to $8 Million Exit Air Force Academy roommate flew out on Jeff's second day home from prison Had several struggling companies and needed someone he could trust completely Jeff and a team of Academy basketball and rugby teammates merged four losing companies Sold to California private equity two years later for $8 million Jeff's deep pride: these men had visited him in prison when he had nothing, and this was his way of giving back [00:20:32] Ashley's Love Letter: The Relationship That Changed Everything About a year and a half into his sentence, Jeff received a love letter from Ashley, a former employee She wrote that she had always loved him and would stand by him no matter what Drove seven hours each way to visit him once a month for seven years Was waiting at the front gates the day he was released and brought him home [00:24:20] The 12-Man Room: Jumping on Tony's Back Describes a late-night prison confrontation: a large inmate named Tony began brutally beating a smaller Guatemalan man over commissary pricing Jeff had spent months helping Tony with legal paperwork to get him transferred to a minimum-security camp In the middle of the night, Jeff ran across the room and jumped on Tony's back, screaming that he was about to ruin his transfer Tony came to his senses, went back to bed, everyone survived [00:27:11] The Book and the Mission: When Not If Forbes Books published When Not If: A CEO's Guide to Overcoming Adversity in January 2024 Amazon #1 bestseller; available on Amazon and at jeffmartinovich.com Two halves: 20 lessons on how to prepare before a black swan event, and 20 lessons on what to do differently once it arrives Jeff's goal: help business leaders avoid the mistakes he made on the way up and survive the ones they can't prevent [00:30:06] Final Message: You Can Get Through Anything Life doesn't throw curve balls, it throws bazookas, and Jeff lost everything down to zero Message to anyone going through something terrible: you can get through anything, you just have to get through it Believes God gives incredible rewards on the other side of the tunnel for those who endure Humbled by how many people share their own terrible stories after his speeches, proving everyone carries something [00:32:57] Own Your Story: Turning Disadvantages Into Advantages 99% of people run and hide after catastrophic public failures; Jeff chose the opposite At the start of every meeting, he tells his story directly before anyone can Google it This transparency consistently attracts trust, admiration, and deeper connection Malcolm Gladwell's principle in action: turn disadvantages into advantages   KEY QUOTES "Don't run away. Own your story. Be as transparent and strong as you can. And when you own your story, it becomes the thing that attracts incredible people to you." - Jeff Martinovich "I literally lost a billion-dollar firm and everything down to 0.00. But what I want to give other people is hope and inspiration. You can go through anything as long as you get through it. You just gotta get through it." - Jeff Martinovich "The more people I help, the more the universe takes care of us. I learned that even in prison. The day I got home, I just started helping as many people as possible, mostly at 5 AM for free, and it has just exploded into all these blessings." - Jeff Martinovich CONNECT WITH JEFF MARTINOVICH

What if success isn't about pushing harder but allowing yourself to be pulled toward your purpose? In this episode, Seth Streeter shares how he helps people navigate major life transitions and discover their inspired life purpose as co-founder of Mission Wealth, a wealth management firm he started 25 years ago that now manages $14 billion in assets for 4,600 families across 34 US locations. Seth has been a financial advisor for 34 years, specializing in guiding clients through major life events while helping them live more fulfilling lives through assessments across 12 dimensions of wealth. After going through divorce and the financial crisis, Seth realized he was achieving traditional success but wasn't fulfilled, leading him to spend an introspective year attending retreats, meditating, and traveling to India. In the last eight years, Seth has led purpose-driven retreats for over 2,000 people, including nine-day retreats in Bhutan where leaders trek in the Himalayas and stay with monks. Seth spoke at Davos with Deepak Chopra on conscious leadership and leads the purpose community for YPO. Seth reveals the relationship that transformed his life: Joe Bosco, owner of an Italian restaurant in Fort Collins, Colorado where Seth worked as a dishwasher through high school. When Seth was looking at colleges and his parents wanted him to attend Colorado State, Joe Bosco said "you should check out Santa Barbara, California" because he went there for horse shows. Seth had never heard of Santa Barbara but applied to UCSB because of Joe Bosco and spent 27 years there, founding Mission Wealth, having his children, serving on 10 nonprofit boards, starting sustainable future.org, and doing a TED Talk, all because Joe Bosco suggested he check out UC Santa Barbara. Seth also credits Chip Conley, founder of MEA, as a mentor who showed him how to move from his head to his heart.   [00:03:40] Led Two Nine-Day Purpose Retreats in Bhutan In Asia for most of the trip Had 25 leaders in each group trekking in Himalayas Stayed overnight at monasteries, lived with monks Contemplated purpose individually, within companies, within world at large [00:04:40] Mission Wealth: 25 Years and $14 Billion Co-founded Mission Wealth 25 years ago Independent registered investment advisory firm 34 locations across US, manages just under $14 billion in assets About 4,600 families, team of 200 advisors and professionals [00:05:20] Started Leading Retreats Eight Years Ago In last eight years started leading retreats and coaching For different companies, leaders, different groups of people Takes paid time off to do it, spends vacations leading retreats About 2,000 people have gone through in-person programs [00:06:00] The 13 Inches From Head to Heart Great quote: "furthest distance many travel in lifetime are 13 inches from head to heart" As financial guy, had heart in what he did, loved helping people solve problems This work feels more intimate, more meaningful Really helping people give themselves permission to be best version of who they want to be [00:08:00] Started in Financial Services Right Out of College Right out of college, needed a job Was in student government at UC Santa Barbara, thought he'd be entrepreneur Dad was in government, mom was teacher, brother was police officer Family said "you need a job with benefits, security, and paycheck" [00:09:00] Went Through His Own Tough Journey Went through divorce, financial crisis, bumps in life Realized success script needed to be rewritten Was working hard but wasn't fulfilled, wasn't content Achieving success in traditional way materially but didn't feel fulfilled [00:09:20] The Introspective Year That Changed Everything Decided to do whole introspective year Went to retreats, read self-help books, listened to podcasts Got into meditation, went to India, did all these "woo" things That year opened up whole new framework for living [00:10:20] Push Energy vs Pull Energy As entrepreneur, had lot of push energy: building vision, growing team, charging hill Used that in Ironman, marathons, running nonprofits After personal reflection, started to adopt pull energy approach More of allowance, trusting doors close and open for reason [00:11:20] Speaking at Davos With Deepak Chopra Was asked to speak at panel in Malibu with five people Woman from Finland asked if he'd been to Davos, offered to get him in Three months before event, confirmed: Thursday with Deepak Chopra on Conscious Leadership in Era of AI Couldn't have pushed way into that opportunity, was being open and available [00:14:40] 12 Dimensions of Wealth Talk about wealth not just in financial sense but across 12 dimensions Impact families are having, quality of relationships, physical health, intellectual growth Seeing families grow true wealth feels very rewarding Lead purpose community for all of YPO [00:15:00] The Success Script and Grind Mentality Lot of people followed success script, did what they were taught Worked hard in school, career, moved through ranks or started company Rinsed and repeated grind mentality to get ahead Now 40, 50, or 60 saying "is this all there is?" [00:17:00] Woman Going Through Divorce Woman in mid-50s going through divorce Two daughters just graduated high school, going to East Coast for college Husband ended 30-year marriage right at same time From financial standpoint she was fine, but really struggling with identity [00:18:00] Converting Husband's Office Into Studio She loved working with single women's nonprofits, domestic shelters Also loved skincare, always did facials for daughters Helped her convert former husband's office into studio Became licensed aesthetician, did facials for women in community including free ones for women through tough times [00:19:20] The Inspired Life Purpose Exercise Had someone at retreat who was CEO, just exited food tech company in New York Did exercise called Your Inspired Life Purpose Four circles: innate gifts, skills, passion, what world needs most Look at how those four circles intersect [00:20:00] Paul's Life Manifesto CEO named Paul came up with amazing idea during exercise Went to room that night, wrote his life manifesto Next morning: "I was up most of the night, I now have life manifesto" Wanted to change food systems of North America leveraging technology [00:20:40] Started a Blog, Got Recruited by Patagonia Paul decided to start blog writing about his vision Just couple months later, recruiter read one of his blog posts Interviewed for new position Became head of Patagonia's Food Provision Company [00:24:00] Invested Heavily in Relationships Since High School Always had lunch meetings 12 to 1, five days a week at same restaurant Would book with clients, teammates, or people in community City council members, students, nonprofit leaders, business leaders Every single day asking: who is this person, what makes them tick, how can I support them? [00:25:00] Working at Italian Restaurant in Fort Collins Worked at Italian restaurant through high school to pay bills Was bus boy, dishwasher, had all the jobs Owner was Joe Bosco, owned restaurant in Fort Collins and one in Casper, Wyoming Was thinking about colleges, parents would pay for Colorado State [00:25:40] "You Should Check Out Santa Barbara" Wanted to do something different, applied to UCLA and Berkeley Joe Bosco said "you should check out Santa Barbara, California, they have university there" Used to go there for horse shows Had never even heard of Santa Barbara at the time [00:26:00] Chose UCSB Because of Joe Bosco Applied to UCSB, packet looked amazing, university on coast Ended up choosing UCSB as his university because of Joe Bosco Spent 27 years in Santa Barbara, half of his adult life Founded company there, had children there, on 10 nonprofit boards [00:31:00] Meeting Ashley Brilliant Mom was sixth grade teacher, had cartoons called Pot Shots by Ashley Brilliant in classroom Going through tough time in Santa Barbara, Ashley's cartoons spoke to him three days in row Wrote thank you note to Mr. Brilliant He replied, met for lunch at Chinese restaurant [00:32:00] The Fortune Cookie Message After meal, got fortune cookies Ashley's note said: "Finally, the answer you've been looking for is sitting across from you" Seth's said: "If at first it's a no, it may become a maybe" Decided to help Ashley start building business around his cartoons [00:34:40] Service Trip to Honduras Took son on service trip to Honduras, worked at orphanage Security guard had wooden leg, very archaic piece of wood with hinge 34 years old, probably made $2 a day, couldn't get new leg Decided to get him a leg [00:35:40] Getting Him a $10,000 Leg Took almost a year but got friend who was Paralympic athlete involved Got him fancy $10,000 leg that was molded and fit for him Had to get it down there strategically because shipping would mean it gets stolen He sent FaceTime video: first time he'd been able to slow dance with wife since car accident 10 years prior   KEY QUOTES "A lot of people followed the success script, worked hard in school and career, rinsed and repeated this grind mentality. Now they're 40, 50, or 60 saying 'is this all there is? I now have success, but there's a creative in me that hasn't been out to play.'" - Seth Streeter "The furthest distance many of us travel in our lifetimes are the 13 inches from our head to our heart. This work feels more intimate and meaningful because it's really helping people give themselves permission to be the best version of who they want to be." - Seth Streeter "I had a lot of push energy as an entrepreneur. But I started to adopt a pull energy approach, more of an allowance, trusting that when a door closes it closes for a reason, when it opens for a reason. I was being pulled to where I was supposed to be." - Seth Streeter CONNECT WITH SETH STREETER 

What if buying a home isn't a transaction but a deeply emotional transition that reveals who you're becoming? In this episode, Scott Harris shares how he helps people navigate the emotional journey of finding their dream homes as the founder of Magnetic Real Estate, a boutique residential real estate brokerage in Manhattan. Scott has been a residential real estate agent in New York City for almost 23 years and has sold over $2 billion in real estate. Growing up as a child of divorce, he moved back and forth between his parents' houses approximately 500 times before turning 18, and when he started helping people buy homes, he realized he was healing the damage of being from a broken home himself. He nearly burned out in 2014 while building a team, emerging wiser with the realization that real estate is much more than a transaction. His innovative approach, The Magnetic Method, ensures clients attract homes that help them reach the fullest expression of who they're meant to be. Scott firmly believes real estate agents are doing sacred work, and he wrote "Pursue Your Home" to change the narrative around buying a home. Scott reveals the relationship that transformed his career: Howie Cusack, his mentor at a booking agency in Boston when Scott left college wanting to be in the music business while performing as a singer in a boy band acapella group. Howie took Scott on as an intern and trained him for six years, teaching him how to manage crazy artists, put complicated deals together, and navigate producing concerts and booking tours. Scott toured approximately 100,000 miles a year in an RV performing about a thousand shows opening for bands like NSYNC, working from dial-up internet as the original work-from-home person. When Scott moved to New York and got into real estate, he realized he was armed with incredible skills from Howie, plugging right into the business from day one. This foundation equipped Scott to deal with level-11 insane moments, like when a client called the night before a $7 million closing asking to borrow $350,000 in closing costs, and Scott channeled Howie's ballsy presence from when a reggae act pulled out a chainsaw demanding payment and Howie said "get your butt on stage, you know you're gonna get paid."   [00:05:20] Founder of Magnetic Real Estate Boutique residential real estate brokerage firm in Manhattan, New York City Been residential real estate agent in New York for almost 23 years Serves people buying and selling real estate in New York Connects with people all over the globe [00:07:40] Child of Divorce: Moving 500 Times Child of divorce, moved back and forth between parents until age 18 Did the math: moved about 500 times between their houses Started on rental side of business in New York, felt very transactional Got into sales and got such satisfaction from helping people buy homes [00:08:00] Healing Through Helping Others Find Home Finally put two and two together When helping people find homes, also doing work to heal damage of being from broken home himself When he bought home with his wife, it was same work To have a place that's really yours changed his life [00:09:20] Helping People Through Tough Things One of first sales: helping older Italian woman who was divorcee find home after bad divorce Got call from estate attorney representing Maurice Sendak's estate (wrote "Where the Wild Things Are") His estate went to serve organizations that helped kids Satisfying to know they were helping many people when they sold the apartment [00:12:00] Real Estate Agents Are Doing Sacred Work Firmly believes real estate agents are doing sacred work, really important work Some of most important work there is If people change the way they think about themselves and what they're doing, changes whole tenor Need to bring whole self into relationship with buyers and sellers [00:15:20] Started in Music Business as Intern When first left college, wanted to be in music business Also was singer and performer Got job as intern at booking agency (represents bands or talent buyer like clubs/colleges) Introduced to Howie Cusack in Boston [00:16:00] Learning to Sell Bands and Put Tours Together Real estate is competitive and hard, but go try to sell bands to bookers at clubs Or to college kids probably smoking weed half the time on phone calls Really hard to put tours together for bands Had amazing mentor in Howie, worked together for better part of six years [00:16:40] Producing Concerts is Multifaceted Producing concerts is so multifaceted Putting bands on road, booking tours, all those things All skills from working with Howie influenced way he plugged right into real estate business Right out of the gate, made huge impact on his life [00:17:40] Touring 100,000 Miles a Year Working phones from RV while doing 60,000 or 100,000 miles of touring a year Really grateful to Howie for making huge impact Had RV, went all around country performing at venues Boy band version of acapella group (like contemporary Pentatonix) with beatbox [00:18:20] Opening for NSYNC and Doing 1,000 Shows 23 to 24 years ago Opened for bands like NSYNC Did about 1,000 shows together when he was there Credits experience for making him appreciate giving back [00:18:40] Everyone's Got a Story Been to so many little towns: upstate New York, Indiana, Ohio, eastern seaboard, California Meet people living their lives, get to know them Everyone's got story to tell What's their superpower? Everybody's got something they're uniquely awesome at [00:21:00] The $7 Million Townhouse Crisis Represented songwriter (very well known, wrote popular songs in 60s and 70s) Made a lot of money, but also crazy deal maker Night before buying $7 million townhouse, calls Scott Even though told him 50 times about closing costs, didn't register he'd have to spend $350,000 [00:22:00] Get Your Butt On Stage Howie looks him right in eye: "Get your butt on stage. You know you're gonna get paid. Get outta my face with that" Scott inhabiting this ballsy guy Client asking for money Scott didn't have sitting around At closing table, client did significant gymnastics to make it happen [00:24:00] Free Resources at Pursue Your Home Bunch of free resources so people can get flavor of what's in book Go to pursueyourhome.com Can take assessment to learn your own communication style Strongly encourages people to take time to be prepared before jumping in [00:26:00] Surround Yourself With People Who Care Need to surround yourself with team who really cares about you Family and friends that support you, cheer you on, in trenches with you If there are people in your life that secretly want you to fail, leave them on outside of this conversation Important to surround yourself with feeling where people see you and hear you   KEY QUOTES "I firmly believe that real estate agents are doing sacred work, really important work. We're doing some of the most important work that there is. If people change the way they think about themselves and what they're doing, it changes the whole tenor of the dynamic." - Scott Harris "Everybody's got something they're uniquely awesome at. If you prejudge them, you miss it. You miss that moment. If you can just be with somebody, you end up learning a lot." - Scott Harris "Finding a home is one of the most stressful things people go through because it is so deeply important to our existence. The word for human and the word for home are the same route. You can't untangle those two things." - Scott Harris CONNECT WITH SCOTT HARRIS 

What if the extraordinary results you're chasing are hiding in the ordinary daily tasks you're overlooking? In this episode, Dr. Lani Jones shares how she helps mid-career professionals navigate the "what's next?" question through psychology-informed business coaching. Lani is a clinical psychologist who works in the leadership space, doing one-on-one coaching with professionals asking "I've checked all the boxes, where do I go from here?" while also working with organizations on culture and clarity. She started her career in a hospital setting as part of an interdisciplinary team before opening a private practice, but COVID became the unexpected catalyst when evaluation needs dropped while therapy demand skyrocketed, and she began working with entrepreneurs and executives on leading through crises and balancing professional ambition with caregiving. Lani's innovative approach centers on deep-dive calendar audits that reveal what's truly important versus what's done out of obligation, helping seasoned professionals reclaim agency they've forgotten they have. Her biggest win was helping a C-Suite executive who achieved her life's goal but was miserable, and after 18 months she was loving work again simply by claiming her agency and rebuilding her calendar. Beyond her professional achievements, Lani champions the motto "the extraordinary abides in the ordinary." Lani reveals the relationships that transformed her business: three powerhouse women she met in a mastermind group for testing psychologists around 2018-2019, who after the mastermind ended gelled so deeply that one said "I think we need to meet in person," leading to yearly gatherings where they show up so vulnerably that if two end up in the same city there's a text guilting the others to fly in even for 36 hours. These women became her biggest champions who championed her pursuit of coaching saying "pursue this, it's okay to transition out of clinical work," and because Lani had all her cheerleaders behind the scenes giving her business advice while personally supporting her, she could show up powerfully for an early coaching client, a founder drowning without systems who couldn't afford mentorship. She worked with her pro bono, introducing her to key people and helping her handle burnout, leading to Lani's realization that it wasn't just about these three women but about the broader relationship ecosystem she'd built over years where she could say "let me share my people with you."   [00:03:20] Clinical Psychologist in Leadership and Business Space Works as consultant and coach with mid-career professionals One-to-one coaching with those asking "what's next? I've checked boxes, had success—where do I go from here?" Works with organizations and leadership teams on culture, clarity, evaluation procedures Does workshops and trainings [00:04:20] Started Career in Hospital Setting Worked with variety of medical professionals as part of interdisciplinary team Focused on diagnostic side: evaluation and testing Moved to opening private practice during COVID [00:04:40] COVID Changed Everything By happenstance started working with group of entrepreneurs and executives Covering topics: leading through pandemic, going through reorg while dealing with divorce Climbing corporate ladder while being caregiver at home Talking about dual roles [00:05:00] Merging Business and Psychology Being business owner herself, loved talking all things business Using psych expertise to address people-related challenges Coaching was way to merge love of both business and psychology Help people maximize impact and show up as best selves in all spheres [00:05:40] The Need Shifted Dramatically Stay-at-home mandates, children in schools at home Need for evaluations drastically dropped off Need for therapy greatly increased What she'd been doing totally unexpectedly shifted [00:07:40] C-Suite Client Success Story Woman came to her, been in C-Suite about a year C-Suite was her entire goal—everything she'd done was for this Year in, I was not very happy, asking "is this it? Is this what it's supposed to feel like?" Crisis moment: "What do I do now?" [00:08:20] Deep Dive Calendar Audit First step with all clients: calendar audit Can say such and such is important, but calendar reflects what truly is Spend week or two doing deep dive: mindless scrolling, transport times, all the things Start peeling back layers in all spheres [00:08:40] What's on There Out of Obligation? What's under obligation or guilt? What did you really want to say no to but said yes to? Seasoned professionals often forget how much agency they have in a situation [00:09:00] The Big Win: Nothing Externally Changed By end of their time together, she was really loving things again Nothing significantly changed externally: same role, two elementary age kids, married Started claiming her agency, taking more control Peeling away guilt and "shoulds" [00:09:40] Rebuilding Calendar to Bring Life Rebuilt calendar to things that brought her life, things she wanted to say yes to Even within job position, had more flexibility than she was claiming Structured schedule to maximize deep think time Had flexibility in when and how she was taking meetings [00:12:40] Met in Mastermind Group When first starting practice, sought out business mentor Was in mastermind group—all testing psychologists in private practice Very specific niche, all virtual across the country [00:13:00] Four Women Really Gelled Together At end of mastermind, herself and three women really gelled One said "I think we need to meet in person" Met up in person number of years ago for first time Have yearly gathering somewhere in world, one plays host [00:13:20] Guilting Each Other to Fly In If two end up in same city, there's text message Guilting other ones to fly in even for 36 hours to be with them Powerhouse business owners [00:13:40] Biggest Champions and Cheerleaders Been some of her biggest champions and cheerleaders Shown up in this space so vulnerably and authentically Few weeks ago, sitting on beach in Florida talking life, talking business What's going great? What's hard? [00:15:40] Early Coaching Client: Founder Drowning One of early coaching clients was a founder couple years in Didn't quite have systems in place that she needed This was her first business, felt like she was drowning Not in financial position to take on business mentor or coach [00:16:00] Working Together Pro Bono Made agreement to work together Started working with her on both personal and professional life Getting business systems in place Introduced her to number of key people with expertise outside of hers [00:16:40] Had Cheerleaders Behind the Scenes Because had all her cheerleaders behind scenes Who were giving her all amazing business advice and expertise Personally supporting her Was able to show up in very similar way for this client [00:17:40] Broader Relationship Ecosystem Wasn't only these three women Was the broader relationship ecosystem she shared with client So many other key players was able to introduce her to All that relationship equity over the years [00:20:20] The Extraordinary Abides in the Ordinary One of her mottos: "The extraordinary abides in the ordinary" As entrepreneurs and business owners, we want the big shiny things Want to run after really big successes or goals Actually the seemingly mundane or just ordinary daily tasks [00:20:40] Relationships Take Time to Build Even relationship building: sending the text, doing the follow up, grabbing the coffee Can't alter time—time is what it is, for better or worse Sometimes it's fast, sometimes it's slow Relationships take time to build, they're not overnight   KEY QUOTES "The extraordinary abides in the ordinary. Sometimes as entrepreneurs and business owners, we want the big, shiny things, but it's actually the seemingly mundane, ordinary daily tasks of relationship building, sending the text, doing the follow up that creates big results." - Dr. Lani Jones "Our calendar actually reflects what truly is important to us. We can say such and such is important, but how are we spending our time? Seasoned professionals often forget how much agency they have in a situation." - Dr. Lani Jones "Relationships take time to build. They're not overnight. Don't get in that rapid pace of 'I'm not where I need to be.' Just do the daily tasks, do the ordinary, and you're gonna see the big results." - Dr. Lani Jones CONNECT WITH DR. LANI JONES 

What if we don't know what to do with broken hearts the way we know what to do with broken bones? In this episode, Jeanne Foot shares how she helps individuals and families navigate mental health, addiction, and trauma recovery through The Recovery Concierge. Jeanne is the founder of this boutique mental health, addiction, and trauma navigation agency that provides innovative concierge services tailored to unique needs of individuals, families, and the entertainment industry. With a focus on mental health and addiction recovery, her team's holistic approach encompasses assessments, counseling, and continuous support, ensuring a comprehensive pathway to sustainable recovery. Her journey into this work wasn't by choice - it chose her. Growing up in 1960s London with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and the death of her baby sister, Jeanne fell into substances at a young age as her only tool for emotional regulation. After getting sober and spending seven years frozen in emotional pain, she had an epiphany: no one's coming to save you. She dove into everything from peak performance to trauma healing, creating the proprietary method she uses today with clients. Jeanne reveals two relationships that transformed her: her father, who mentored her in the family insurance business in her early twenties when she didn't want to go to university, teaching her that sales is about guiding people through a process (not coercing them), that you win on price but lose on price, and instilling values of ethics, integrity, kindness, vulnerability, and transparency that shape everything she stands for today and carry through to their third-generation family business; and Dr. Anthony Levitt, Chief of Brain Sciences at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto with over 10,000 employees, a brilliant psychiatrist who gave agency to people who weren't clinically trained, wanting to learn from lived experience rather than taking a top-down approach, asking Jeanne to chair a grassroots pilot program in 2012 that has now served thousands of families and become a leader in the industry both nationally and internationally, and who admitted "we're failing people, we need to do better" when others would hide that they don't know what to do.   [00:04:20] Founder of The Recovery Concierge Boutique mental health, addiction, and trauma navigation agency Matches people to right services and bespoke treatment plans Uses invitational, compassionate, non-stigmatizing approach to intervention Been doing this work 30 years informally, 15 years professionally [00:05:40] Growing Up in 1960s London "Children should be seen and not heard" environment in middle class family Baby sister died when Jeanne was four years old Stepbrother sexually abused her, grew up with tremendous trauma Fell into substances at very young age as only coping mechanism [00:06:40] The Critical Juncture: Seven Years Sober Seven years into sobriety, thought "if this is all my life's gonna be, I don't want any part" Frozen in her body, life picture perfect on outside but empty inside In so much emotional pain despite having everything externally [00:07:20] The Epiphany: No One's Coming to Save You Had an epiphany: "There's no one who's coming to save you. You better figure this out yourself" Dove into everything: peak performance, emotional healing, trauma, addiction, mental health Created proprietary method mixing optimal tools that became foundation for her work [00:08:20] Her Children: The Catalyst for Change Children became more important to her than herself Wanted to do things differently than her family had done Made sacrifices in her early thirties (early 1990s) to choose them [00:09:40] The Volunteer Visit That Changed Everything Looking for place to volunteer, wanted to be of service and reduce suffering Someone pointed her to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto Had no idea what she was doing, just felt she wanted to help [00:10:00] The Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Anthony Levitt Met Dr. Anthony Levitt, Chief of Brain Sciences at Sunnybrook Hospital (10,000+ employees) He was examining why parents were taking children to US for mental health treatment Parents shared their stories, Dr. Levitt said: "We're gonna do something about this right now" [00:10:40] Building the Plane While Flying It Dr. Levitt asked Jeanne to chair the pilot program Lived experience informed program with clinical expertise Did everything: secured philanthropy funding, hired people, visited every stakeholder, defined metrics [00:11:20] He Gave Us Agency Dr. Levitt gave them agency despite being brilliant psychiatrist Felt he could learn from people who had been in trenches and failed by system Jeanne worked across from him 30 hours a week for free because so in love with the work [00:13:00] We Don't Know What to Do with Broken Hearts Know what to do with broken hearts (cardiology) or broken bones Don't know what to do with broken hearts (emotional)—very nuanced, non-prescriptive process Need to meet client where they're at, not use top-down approach [00:14:20] Rapport Is Number One Indicator of Success Rapport is #1 indicator of success, not therapeutic expertise If you don't have rapport with someone, you can't go anywhere Client from 40 years ago still calling because of implicit trust: "I've got my people" [00:16:00] Learning from Her Father First person who changed her life was her father His ethics, sense of humor, values shaped who she became Father was fantastic mentor when she joined family insurance business in 1980s [00:17:00] Sales Is About Guiding People in a Process Father taught her sales is about guiding people, not coercing them Showing them a process: either they want it or they don't He taught her about ethics—have to have benchmark of morality in business [00:19:20] Third Generation of Client Relationships Into third generation with client acquisitions in insurance business Values come from within structure of family and organization Clients saying: "We've been dealing with these people for long time, continue that" Father's lesson: "You win on price, you lose on price" [00:22:40] Dr. Anthony Levitt: Beautiful Humility Gave agency to people who weren't clinically trained, wanted to learn from them Admitted "we're failing people, we need to do better" instead of defending system Such beautiful humility about him wanting to learn [00:23:40] Grassroots Organization Still Going Strong Since 2012 Built organization that's served thousands of families Has funding, clinical research, evidence-based outcomes Leaders not just nationally but internationally with this model of care Dr. Levitt's philosophy: "The government leads by following" [00:25:20] Lives Saved Through Being There Been in situations where had she not been there in right moment, person wouldn't be here today Meets people in their darkest moments, sometimes requires heavy lifting Testimonials from family members: "You literally saved my daughter's life" [00:26:20] Compassionate Persistence Everyone does it in their own timeline, have to respect that Not top-down authoritarian approach—some people need more time "Compassionate persistence": stay with them until they get what they need [00:28:20] Triggers Are Learning Opportunities Closer relationships trigger us most, but triggers can be good thing Learning opportunities to do better, show up differently People we love most can be most challenging, but they're opportunities for beautiful learning [00:28:40] 100% Personal Responsibility Have to take 100% responsibility, each of us—no 50/50 When we take personal responsibility, we put control in our hands We build walls to protect our hearts, but can't let anything good in either Being seen, validated, heard for what we need is important part of healing   KEY QUOTES "We know what to do with broken hearts in cardiology, but we don't know what to do with broken hearts." - Jeanne Foot "Rapport is the number one indicator of success. People think it's therapeutic expertise—it's not. If you don't have rapport with someone, you can't go anywhere." - Jeanne Foot "Triggers can be a good thing. They can be learning opportunities for us to do better, to show up differently. We all have blind spots, and the people we love the most sometimes can be the most challenging in our relationships." - Jeanne Foot CONNECT WITH JEANNE FOOT 

What if charitable giving opens you up to a new world of purpose and meaning you didn't know you had access to? In this episode, John Bromley shares how he helps donors navigate and participate comfortably in the giving world as a "charity banker." John is the founder and CEO of Charitable Impact, Canada's first fully online donor-advised fund, which has facilitated over $1.5 billion in charitable donations since its inception in 2011. Growing up in a family deeply engaged in philanthropy, John was inspired by his father, renowned charity lawyer Blake Bromley, to pursue a career in creating impact. He began in corporate finance with PwC and RBC Capital Markets before transitioning to the charitable sector in his mid-to-late twenties, where he recognized the need for a simpler, more effective giving platform. John's innovative approach has earned him recognition as a TEDx speaker, a "Forty Under 40" honoree, and recipient of the CEO Community Leadership Award. Committed to cultivating generosity, John continues to empower individuals and organizations to make meaningful change through philanthropy. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a dedicated community leader, soccer coach, and proud father of two. John reveals the relationship that transformed him: his father Blake Bromley, one of the global pioneers of charity law and finance in Canada, who taught John everything he needed to know to become a charity banker not through formal education but through osmosis during car rides to sports games every weekend, where John thought he was tuning out boring workplace talk but was actually absorbing years of expertise that no textbook could teach, leading to John's realization in his late twenties that his dad possessed unique knowledge that became the foundation for Charitable Impact and John's ability to help donors go from thinking about $200,000 gifts to creating private foundations with $15 million.   [00:05:00] I'm a Charity Banker Acts like private banker to donors (individuals or organizations) Gives access to knowledge about how to go about giving Brings tools and team members to help Founder and CEO of Charitable Impact (donor-advised fund) [00:05:40] How a Charity Bank Works People give money in, get tax receipt right away Can determine how to use those charity dollars to create impact they want Role is entrepreneur who founded it, gives vision and mission There because people with great hearts, minds, deep wallets never had anywhere to go for neutral advice [00:06:40] Inspired by Seeing Others Become Inspired Charitable giving opens people to new world of purpose and meaning About investing time, talent, and money into things you care most about Having impact with your time, talent, and money Coached soccer for years, grateful for opportunity to do it [00:07:40] Getting More Out Than You Put In Really good donors get more out of it than they think they put in First time doing anything, you're not gonna be whiz kid Takes time and focus People who learn to have joy and gratitude become best donors [00:10:40] Making Intentional Giving Part of Everyday Life Vision at Charitable Impact: make intentional giving part of everyday life Quantum of money isn't as important Type of cause they choose isn't important to him Like banker shouldn't care what specific stocks someone chooses [00:11:40] From Sporadic to Intentional Giver Inspired when someone goes from not being giver to proactive giver From only reacting to being asked for money to building giving into their life Whether using time, talents, and/or money Like fitness banker trying to get people off couch [00:14:00] Be Open to Help Blessed to have had many encounters with people who had material impact If talking to younger self: you've gotta be open to help and feedback Don't have to accept it all, but have to listen to it One person stands out head and shoulders above everyone else [00:14:40] Didn't Recognize Until Almost 30 Key mentor in his life was his father Didn't recognize dad played that role until almost 30 Not just because dad was good dad who loved and nurtured him Where do you learn what you need to know to become a charity banker? [00:15:20] One of Two Serious Pioneers Father was one of arguably two serious pioneers of charity law and finance in Canada In charity nerd community (very small), dad is known globally He's one of global experts in the space Here he is, just my dad [00:16:00] The Career Change Conversation Graduated university, started in corporate finance and investment banking Left after several years, not being culture fit Started interacting with dad about changing career mid-to-late twenties Accidental pathway led to realizing dad knows stuff you can't read online [00:17:20] Learning from Osmosis Played ton of sports growing up, every weekend dad took him to games Dad yapping about charity stuff going on in his workplace John thinking: in one ear out the next, boring Now realise: how much did I learn from osmosis? [00:19:20] The $15 Million Superpower Dad's superpower: donor comes in thinking $50-100K, maybe $200K Two months later, leaving with private foundation with $15 million in it Rooted in relationship development and expertise John has had few scenarios where this happened [00:20:20] Seeing Beyond the Barriers People come in wanting to make giving part of how family does things Starting with what sounds like relatively low money Shifting how they think about it, making large structured contributions Growth mindset in philanthropic advisory space [00:22:40] Increasing Access to Participation Mission: increase access to participation in and benefit people feel from giving Not about going from 200K to 15 million About going from never giving to starting to give $100 a month It's the action to participate and start that matters [00:24:00] Like Building a Bank Banks might make more money off high net worth clients But banks don't exist without tens of thousands of small depositors Real interest is helping people get in and stay in game Regardless of money or causes they want to create impact for [00:26:00] The Workshop That Changed Everything Kevin started family foundation in 2008 to avoid big tax bill Friend Jeff Ziegler told him to start foundation and get 501(c)(3) status Went to workshop in 2009, heard foundation owners talking about what they're doing Wanted to start experiencing that [00:26:40] Jamaica Orphanage and Family Sponsorship Kevin's foundation supports Jamaica orphanage, visits every year Gives each of four older kids access to foundation debit card They choose family through food bank or church to sponsor Buy what kids want and need, groceries [00:27:20] I Wish This Was My Job Oldest daughter after first year: "I wish this was my job all the time" So incredibly rewarding for them Take kids to Jamaica orphanage, they experience what those kids are like On bus ride back, kids saying "we got it really good, Dad" [00:28:20] Three Beliefs at Charitable Impact Everyone has something in world they want to create change for Everyone has something to give toward creating that change (time, talent, treasure) When you give, you get something in return This third belief is under-focused on [00:29:40] Selfish Reasons to Give How do you learn you have it well if not exposed to these things? Creates opportunity, learning, meaning, and purpose in your own life It's not just about benefiting community No one focuses on this, but they should [00:30:00] You Don't Stay in Jobs You Don't Like Do you live in a house you hate? Probably not Eat foods you hate? Play sports you don't like? Of course not - you do things you enjoy Important to see philanthropy that way [00:32:40] Intention vs. Action Intention is critically important, big fan of intention But it's action, doing stuff in real world that creates change Can't just think about it Philanthropy is like exercise or eating well - you have to actually do it [00:33:20] You Don't Have to Be Perfect Don't have to work out hours every day Can be incremental, small part of who you are But you actually have to do something When you do, you get something in return [00:33:40] The One Thing They Don't Regret Seasoned philanthropists, particularly as they get older Never heard anyone regret spending time, talent, money on things they care about Partly because of how much they get out of it By so doing [00:34:20] Being in Control of Where Money Goes Can choose instead of paying it all in taxes Give to organization or something you believe in and want to support Take proactive step and give it there instead We can totally choose that [00:36:00] Dad, Thank You and I Love You John gives shout out to his father Thanks him for everything Says "I love you" Beautiful moment honoring his dad   KEY QUOTES "Charitable giving opens them up to this new world of purpose and meaning. It's really about investing your time and talent and money into the things that you care most about, that you love." - John Bromley "Really good donors get more out of it than they think they put in. The people who learn to have joy and gratitude from giving become the best donors." - John Bromley "When you give, you get something in return. It's about creating opportunity and learning and meaning and purpose in your own life." - John Bromley CONNECT WITH JOHN BROMLEY 

What if community is currency and you can never truly be broke? In this episode, Eric Farewell shares how he helps founders grow their businesses while staying grounded in purpose, presence, and resilience. Eric is an entrepreneur, author, and somatic business coach who has built industry-shaping brands like Aviator Paramotor and National STOL. He's a devoted husband and father of three whose journey through loss, injury, and burnout led him to redefine what success truly means. Eric retired at 35 (four years ago) after 26 years of building businesses since age 13. In his book Farewell to Normal and through his coaching with the Royals Mastermind, Eric helps founders cut their efforts by at least 50% while doubling revenue. His work week is usually about 90 minutes, allowing him to be deeply present with his family and use the wisdom of his experience instead of the abilities of his brain. Eric moved halfway across the country to be closer to his community in Texas, specifically the Front Row Dads mastermind. He's on the board of Rising Man, which specializes in Native American style rites of passage for men and boys. Eric reveals the relationships that transformed him: his wife, who for 16 years of marriage has reminded him he's a good man and makes good decisions, keeping him from the brink more times than he can count when their marriage was in crisis before they found therapy and somatic work; his first mentor Alex Ozzi, whom he met at an internet marketing conference at age 13 and followed puppy dog style, moving to California and living in his garage from ages 13 to 21, learning that having a mentor who's where you want to go is absolutely imperative; and his Front Row Dads community in Texas (especially Jason Bro who challenges him more than anyone and gives him more love from another man than he's ever received), teaching him that community is currency and you need mentors, coaches you pay way too much for, and community that builds you up and holds you accountable when you fail.   [00:03:40] Retired at 35 Retired four years ago at age 35, been building businesses since age 13 This is not first retirement but this one actually took For him, addiction to producing was tied directly to childhood abuse and trauma Four years ago realized he didn't need to be the best worker to matter anymore [00:04:20] Serving Entrepreneurs Who Want More Stepped down as CEO, moved halfway across country from companies two years ago Work week is usually about 90 minutes, using wisdom of experience instead of abilities of brain Serves entrepreneurs and founders who are waking up spiritually Goal: Cut efforts by 50%, increase revenue by double (some reduce hours 70-80%) [00:05:40] Legacy Is Relationships Most proud of clients reducing hours 70-80% while increasing revenue Legacy is not money in bank account, it's relationships with people and family Marriage was in crisis (relationship is over, how do we cut things apart) Found therapy and somatic work, now have best relationship he can imagine [00:07:00] The Hardest Year but the Happiest Hardest year in at least last nine years (financially, emotionally, death in family) Got dozed in February, tariffed in April, had to lay off half of team Production truck and trailer flipped in Montana, caught fire, burned to ground Because of the work he's done, genuinely the happiest he's ever been [00:08:20] Started Selling Airplanes on the Internet Started in 1999 selling airplanes on this new thing called the internet ADHD kids not designed to build airplanes, so sold them instead Turned into hundreds of airplanes sold over next five years Became internet marketing career, retired from that at 23 [00:09:00] Flying as First Form of Therapy Flying was first taste of perspective shift (like Burning Man or therapy for others) Astronauts call it the overlook effect Built para motor flight school, manufacturing business, media company, aircraft racing series Many clients will never go to therapy, but flying is great tool for them [00:09:40] Losing His Brother Changed Everything Seven years ago lost his brother at age 22 (had three-month-old son) Brother was first employee at Aviator Huge wake up call about what really mattered Had been chasing constantly moving goalposts (million, 5 million, 10 million, 25 million) [00:10:20] Logo Tattooed on Bodies Worldwide Logo tattooed on ton of bodies all over the world Clients call it a family, vociferous fans, massive fans Racing series has one part-time employee and 1600 volunteers For-profit business with volunteers who believe in mission and love community [00:10:40] Why Do I Work a Hundred Hours a Week? Started journey looking inward at why he does this Would work 100 hours a week then crash every three months into fever Got vasectomy, was back on field working 24 hours later Worked that way because that's where he felt loved [00:11:20] Presence Is the Core of Everything Realized presence is the core of everything Presence is the absence of fear, love's antithesis of fear Presence is truest version of love you can give yourself and world Everything else good in life is byproduct of choice to be deeply present [00:13:00] Living with the Pain For 22 years used alcohol as primary numbing agent for pain Broken back twice, five radiated discs, broken vertebrae (was test pilot) Haven't had drink in almost two weeks, got curious about living with discomfort Doesn't want anything that ties him to fear, so sitting in the pain [00:16:40] Wife Kept Him from the Brink Number one most valuable relationship is his wife For 16 years of marriage, reminds him he's a good man who makes good decisions Her guidance and encouragement kept him from brink more times than he can count Marriage went from crisis to best relationship through therapy and somatic work [00:17:00] Following Alex Ozzi at 13 At 13 got first mentor, went to internet marketing conference, met Alex Ozzi Followed him puppy dog style, begged to make coffee, carry briefcase Ended up moving to California, living in his garage Followed him conference to conference from ages 13 to 21 [00:17:20] The Three Things You Need Mentor who is where you want to go, who's lived life you want to live Coach you pay way too much money to (makes it uncomfortable so you follow through) Community that builds you up and holds you accountable when you fail Those three things are absolute must [00:18:20] Moving to Texas for Community Moved halfway across country because community is in Texas Found mastermind called Front Row Dads (John Broman) focused on family Came to Texas with family, realized more friends here than Florida Five weeks later moved here to double down on having men who challenge him [00:18:40] Jason Bro Gives More Hell Than Anyone Jason Bro (CEO at Ma) gives more hell than anyone else Eric's met Also gives more love than Eric's ever received from another man Deeply present, engaged, challenges the crap out of him Wants relationships that challenge him to be best version and pick him up [00:22:00] Cooking for Everyone Grew up in French restaurant, started working there at age seven Worked every position from line cook to dishwasher to bartender At Aviator, if you're learning to fly, you ate meal Eric prepared first day At National STOL, cook for 100-200 people three meals a day (all volunteers) [00:22:40] The Moment He No Longer Had to Carry the Energy Sat down for lunch at Aviator with about 30 people Someone sat next to him and asked "So what do you do here?" They didn't know he was founder or CEO That's the moment he no longer had to carry energy of whole organization [00:23:00] Community Is Currency From Preston Smiles and Garin Jones (Garin Oay): "Community is currency" So many people fear going broke, not having enough, failing Problem is fear based on tangible idea that universe is finite (it's not) When you have community, you can't ever truly be broke [00:23:40] Millions Lost This Year Father-in-law hung himself, business suffered massively from canceled contracts and tariffs Millions and millions of dollars lost this year Yet in community, realized he's building coaching program with incredible people Doesn't do social media marketing, no interest in being that person ever again [00:24:40] Asking for Withdrawals Community only becomes currency when you ask for support Garin said: "You're not asking for help. Biggest bridges are suspension bridges, need support" Each of us in different places in lives, can offer different levels of support In mastermind, do ton of testing (Gene Keys, Human Design, Enneagram, Kolby, Working Genius) [00:25:00] Partnering People's Genius If someone is high quick start and another is high fact finder, partner them Quick start can temper fact finder, fact finder can challenge quick start Same thing exists in relationships All you have to do is ask for support because rising tide lifts all ships [00:26:00] Michael Dash Asked Where He Could Help Michael Dash asked where he could help Eric said he loves being on podcasts if Michael has any friends That was an invitation Michael offered Not natural for Eric, he'd rather give support (then he's in control, can't be turned down) [00:27:00] Jesse Elder's Lesson on Giving Jesse pointed out: when you give to someone who appreciates it, amazing feeling But by not allowing others to give to you, you're depriving them of same experience It's stealing from them Can't have one-sided relationship, there must be reciprocity [00:30:00] The 65-Foot Boat Experience Client Michael concerned about how he'd contribute to Kevin's event Two days later called back with idea: offer 65-foot boat for Seattle water experience Could have been time when Kevin said "you don't need to do that" Would have been worst thing for Michael who put two days of thought into it [00:32:20] The Truth of the Last Year Wrote second book, realized first 10 chapters sounded like hero's journey Wrote afterward about reality: all the hardships of last year These things are still hard, difference is capacity to be present with them Learning that level of intimacy changes every relationship [00:33:00] Most Masculine Thing You Can Do Learning to ask in way that's not demeaning of masculinity or polarity Most masculine thing: truly open visor and show what's inside Show your fear, show your pain, be with someone and let them see They can hold it [00:34:00] The Royals Mastermind Group for men and women who want to step into their king or queen energy Not overwhelmed, not living in fear or anxiety Deeply present with all that is End goal: businesses that work to support us, build legacies that matter [00:35:00] The Deeper Relationship There may be deeper relationship you've overlooked: relationship with yourself While outside relationships deeply important, they help us see reflections of ourselves Relationship we carry for who we are, for honoring our challenges is most difficult There's deeper layer of connection to self   KEY QUOTES "Community is currency. So many people fear going broke, not having enough, that they will fail. The problem is we have this fear based on this tangible idea. The universe is finite. And it's not. The universe is infinite. When you have community, you can't ever truly be broke." - Eric Farewell (quoting Preston Smiles and Garin Jones) "You're not asking for help. The biggest bridges in the world are suspension bridges. They need support from others, and each of us are in different places in our lives and can offer different levels of support." - Garin Jones (shared by Eric Farewell) "If you are not allowing others to pour into you the way you pour into them, it's a one-sided relationship. There is no reciprocity, and that's the deepest part of a relationship." - Eric Farewell CONNECT WITH ERIC FAREWELL 

What if your 11% success rate means you're absolutely crushing it? In this episode, Paul Kirchoff shares how he helps small growth businesses and their leaders accelerate success through EPX Global, a breakthrough AI-centric acceleration platform and ecosystem. As an avid entrepreneur, investor, and global adventurer, Paul is the founder and CEO of EPX Global, where members around the world drive faster business success, max out amazing experiences, and push individual performance to new levels. Paul is also the Founder and CEO of DominoOne, an impact accelerator and crowdsourced problem-solving platform. Paul built two marketing software/agency companies and multi-billion dollar business units at Dell Computer Corporation as an early employee. He's a member of the 113-year-old Explorers Club, DJs electronic music, wrote a corporate thriller novel (giving proceeds to cancer research), and made a film about racism. Paul is developing frontier-level expertise in operationalizing artificial intelligence across the enterprise in every department. Paul reveals two relationships that transformed him in ways nobody has ever answered this question before: a Mongolian eagle hunter he met in the far eastern corner of Mongolia, an older gentleman who had zero knowledge of America, spoke no English, and lived in a yurt with horses and golden eagles as pets, teaching Paul about authentic human connection beyond labels and systems, which became the core culture he built into his technology platform where single moms are valued equally with astronauts; and a police officer who arrested him at 32 after a casual happy hour (though Paul was sober), leading to community service at a center for the deaf and blind where he spent weeks rewinding VHS tapes while listening to thought leaders teach cutting-edge SEO and digital marketing, which gave him the advanced knowledge to start his marketing agency that became successful and sold 13 years later, ultimately leading to his trip to Mongolia and the realization he needed to build EPX Global.   [00:04:00] What Paul Does at EPX Global Tech veteran CEO with many startups, sold companies, shut down companies Early employee at Dell Computer Corporation before anyone in Austin knew who Michael Dell was Built EPX Global as AI-centric ecosystem for small growth businesses and their leaders Heavy artificial intelligence expertise helping companies accelerate success, health, and experiences [00:05:00] Making Everything Go Faster Helps accelerate time to best performance unique to genetics on health side Helps companies accelerate success with AI, connections, and knowledge Makes sure people don't forget to dance under the Milky Way because life is short [00:06:00] Living in Service of Others Used to be financial goals and status symbols when younger, none of that matters now Addicted to a blank sheet of paper, gifted to solve or invent anything Respect for fellow humans (all a unit of one on their own unique journey) Living in service of others by replicating himself with technology [00:07:00] Building a Top Marketing Agency Built and sold one of top demand generation agencies in world Controlled front page of Google, Facebook called asking how they converted traffic Always on cutting edge of deploying technology in marketing (technical + psychology) [00:08:20] AI Systems for Every Business Size Wanted to build AI systems for small businesses (missing factor for 10x resources) Also doing business transformation consulting for billion-dollar companies Helping bigger companies go from where they are to AI-first operations [00:09:20] The 60% Revenue Increase Every Month Networking ecosystem connects people to solutions for health, happiness, business, capital People battling depression got connected to biohacking guys, transformed their lives One client company 60-70% higher revenue every single month with zero change to headcount [00:11:00] Being the X Factor AI systems deployed handle support, become AI salesperson, become AI marketing team Small businesses can grow beyond traditional chains with 10x resources All about being X factor in people's lives or facilitating X factor with someone else [00:14:00] The 11% Success Rate Discovery Expert guest on platform said his success rate is 14% (very successful guy) Paul did the math on his own attempts, came out to 11% success rate Entrepreneurs put enormous pressure on themselves, need different perspective [00:16:00] Trust in an AI World Real meaningful relationships becoming more and more valuable with AI Building networking assistant governed by user (uses your reasoning to find value) Human connection and that magnetic field around our hearts makes us who we are [00:19:40] When Social Media Became Entertainment Facebook, Instagram, TikTok devolved into micro entertainment channels (not networking) Feeds filled with ads and sponsored posts, no actual networking EPX Global has no ads, every connection based on merit of what you want [00:20:20] Photorealistic Fake Content AI video (Sora, Veo) can create photorealistic content that's completely fake Consumer backlash coming for authenticity in connections Business will embrace AI efficiency (hyper-efficient usually wins) [00:23:00] Two People, No Names Never anyone Paul looks up to or admires or wants to be like who affected his life Been blessed to meet incredible people (Pope, Richard Branson's Island, etc.) Two people come to mind that transformed everything Both people Paul has no idea where they are or their names [00:24:20] Far Eastern Mongolia Was entrepreneur working 14 hours a day for decade plus, one-trick pony success Knew needed to desperately change something, chose adventure Took group to far eastern corner of Mongolia to ride horses with eagle hunters Met older gentleman in yurt who had zero knowledge of America or United States [00:25:40] The Man with Golden Eagles Man spoke zero English, wore fox neck tie, had pet golden eagles (40 pounds) Paul realized this is furthest from his life as tech guy (opposite side of life) Both excited to meet each other as new friends with zero in common [00:27:00] Single Moms and Astronauts Brought that spiritualness and core value into network he built Despite super achievers (swimming oceans, skiing Everest, gold medals), none of that matters Single mom raising five good kids might be more impressive than astronaut [00:27:40] The Saturday Night Traffic Stop At 32, coming out of casual happy hour, got pulled over Told officer honestly: "I had two drinks over last hour, I'm clearly fine" Officer said he seemed like nice guy but made him do sobriety test Got arrested and taken downtown (was actually sober, officer kept saying he was nicest person) [00:28:40] Community Service for the Deaf and Blind Offered to do community service to get charge expunged Chose center for deaf and blind, job was rewinding VHS tapes in warehouse Asked supervisor if he could listen to music, supervisor said yes [00:29:20] SEO Lessons in His Ears Instead of music, put in thought leaders teaching SEO and digital marketing For weeks on end, hours a day, learning cutting-edge techniques from pioneers After that, was so advanced in knowledge that led to starting agency Agency became successful and powerful, sold it 13 years later [00:30:00] The Chain of Events If officer hadn't arrested him, wouldn't have had that learning experience Wouldn't have had confidence to start agency that got him burnt out Wouldn't have gone to Mongolia and realized need to build network [00:31:00] In the Canyon Before the Summit At the time was devastated, seemed horrible (younger without perspective) Now incredibly grateful it happened When in the canyon, you're about to go to the summit [00:32:20] When Identity Gets Wrapped Up Greatest risk to mental health is when identity tied to something other than happiness If identity wrapped up in labels (AI whisperer, top guy), devastated when things go wrong Separate identity from accomplishments to stomach any ups and downs [00:38:00] The Leader in the Back AI exercise: meditate on what you look like as future leader Paul's image: crowd moving down valley, Paul in the back (slightly bigger) Leader in back can move crowds (not showing off Maserati or boat) [00:39:00] A Multitude of Miracles However someone gets through life (good/bad parents, heartbreak, etc.) shapes them Everyone made it to this one moment in time (mathematically massive miracle) When you respect everyone like that, you operate without ability to judge or be judged [00:39:40] Operating Without Fear When you don't judge or feel judged, you operate without expectations Without expectations means without fear of future negative ramifications Can be yourself, be present, love everybody, still compete   KEY QUOTES "I did the math and my success rate is like 11%. And I feel like I'm fairly successful, right? I've learned to not really give a shit about what your definition of success is." - Paul Kirchoff "There's zero in common, zero knowledge about each other. And it was one of the most remarkable moments because it shows you this level of connection that's possible when you drop labels and systems and passports and everything else." - Paul Kirchoff "If that guy wouldn't have arrested me, I wouldn't have started an agency, wouldn't have gotten burnt out, wouldn't have gone to Mongolia, and wouldn't be on this call today." - Paul Kirchoff CONNECT WITH PAUL KIRCHOFF 

What if hearing God speak to you in the last row of a church saved you from losing everything? In this episode, James Brown shares how he helps professional service business owners scale their businesses without sacrificing their lives through Business Accelerator Institute and Perseverance Squared. After launching his first business in 1994 and rapidly expanding to $8M in annual revenue, James transitioned to coaching in 2014 and has now guided over 450 business owners to significant growth. He launched Small Law Firm University, growing it to $3 million in revenue within a year, and developed a CMO program generating an additional $2 million annually. James holds a Business degree from Lindenwood University (1989) and JD from St. Louis University (1993). In 2009, he was selected as one of America's Top 20 Premier Experts and featured in USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek. James believes all businesses have the same seven working parts, and the only difference is what they sell. James reveals three relationships that transformed him: his wife Sherry, whom he's known since age three when they met in her mom's beauty salon, who believed in him when everyone else said he couldn't achieve his dreams and stood by him through 41 years including his darkest moments; his mentor Darrell Castle, a Memphis-based lawyer who taught him to reject the "cookie cutter" approach and build a business on his own terms, showing him that all businesses share seven working parts regardless of what they sell; and God, whom he encountered in March 2015 after hitting rock bottom (drinking excessively, making terrible choices, nearly losing everything) when a random stranger invited him to church where he heard God speak to him in the last row as the only white person in an all-Black congregation, completely transforming his perspective and leading him to sell his law firm to help other business owners build lives of purpose.   [00:04:20] What James Does at Business Accelerator Institute Helps owners of professional service businesses scale predictably and profitably Focuses on building businesses that serve owners, not the other way around Has helped over 450 business owners achieve this transformation [00:05:20] The Defining Moment with His Wife Second year in business, struggling financially, client asked for refund Wife said: "At the end of the day, you do what's right and everything else will follow" That statement still resonates 30 years later and drives his mission to help more people [00:07:20] How Clients Find Him Primarily word of mouth and brand touches through Interview Valet (on 40 podcasts this year) Results speak for themselves without traditional marketing Recent client: 69-year-old Alabama lawyer practicing 50 years, never broke $500K, just hit $1M this year [00:11:00] The Unorthodox Path to Success Known wife Sherry since age three, met in her mom's beauty salon Parents married at 16, kicked James out at 19 when he announced marriage Told his whole childhood he was "too heavy" to do things, couldn't play sports Made varsity football first year as junior, played four years (nobody in family graduated college) [00:12:40] Working His Way Through Law School Got job at General Motors assembly line, 6 AM to 2:30 PM, went to school 4 PM to 11 PM for 10 years Right before graduating law school, GM announced plant closure Sent out 300 resumes, got zero responses with three kids (ages 5, 2, and 1) Forced to start business by necessity, not by choice [00:14:00] Meeting Mentor Darrell Castle Lawyers conditioned that marketing is "beneath them" Darrell taught him to look at business differently, be different Showed him all businesses have same seven working parts (only difference is what they sell) Set up business around not working past 4:30 PM from day one [00:15:40] Building the $8M Law Practice First rule: Business open till 7 PM and Saturdays, but James wasn't there Hired people and built systems so business ran without him Grew to $8 million annually with offices in four different states [00:16:40] The Dark Years: Getting Too Big for His Britches Started making bad choices despite success (never drank until his 40s) First drink was Irish car bomb followed by 10 kamikaze shots Started spending money on wrong things, went to strip clubs, cheated on wife Wife and him separated, she went on cruise with daughter [00:18:20] The Divine Encounter That Changed Everything March 2015: Drunk at wine bar, random stranger invited him to church next morning Went to that church by himself Sunday morning, sat in last row Only white person in all-Black church, heard God speak to him Never saw that stranger again (believes he was an angel) [00:19:40] The Wake-Up Call Wife told him: "God gives you hints, and if you don't listen, at some point He's going to slap you across the face" Nearly lost everything (wife, business, all going downhill) That March 2015 moment was most influential person: God Decided to sell law firm and start helping other business owners [00:20:20] The Leap of Faith Worked for another company making $330,000 a year coaching business owners 2018: At conference in Jacksonville, told them he was leaving, called wife from airport Goal: Get nine private clients in 60 days to replace income (took nine days) First year did just under $1 million in business [00:22:40] The Catalyst Moments After coaching calls, often sits there thinking "who was that guy?" Works with business owners from $250K to $100M annually Stopped questioning who he is to coach $100M business owners Been blessed with certain gifts and has faith they will continue [00:24:00] The Lesson of Not Labeling Setbacks Example: Payroll in two days is $15K, only $1K in operating account Freaking out keeps you from being creative and finding solutions Takes everything as exactly as it's meant to be and learns from it [00:27:40] The Live Event Revelation $10M, $50M, $100M business owners at tables with under-$500K owners Big business owners worried they wouldn't learn from "smaller" ones $50M and $100M owners took just as many notes (smaller businesses still nimble and innovative) Realized everyone can gain something from each other regardless of revenue size [00:30:00] When Is Enough, Enough? Just turned 60, my wife asked "when is enough, enough?" The Mastermind member asked: "What's your goal?" Answer: "To help people" "How many people on the planet? Are you ever gonna run out of people to help?" Never gonna run out (also volunteers through Red Cross deploying to disasters) [00:32:00] Building Business Accelerator Institute Can only work with so many people one-on-one before hitting bandwidth Goal: Give business owners Harvard-level business degree without Harvard-level dollars Over 55 four-week courses addressing all seven parts of business $249/month, includes two-hour open office hours every Wednesday [00:35:00] Final Wisdom: You're the Average of the Five Don't pay attention to what other people say, surround yourself with people who inspire you "You're the average of the five people you hang out with the most—and it's true" Example: Son played goalie since age 5, adapted performance to level of teammates around him Hang around like-minded individuals who inspire you to go where you want to go   KEY QUOTES "At the end of the day, you do what's right and everything else will follow." - Sherry Brown "All businesses have the same seven working parts. Literally the only thing that's different is what we sell. The concept of running a very successful business and scaling it is simple. I'm very intentional with that word. I'm never gonna say it's easy, but the concept is simple." - James Brown CONNECT WITH JAMES BROWN 

What if witnessing 10 deaths in 23 years changed your view on life? In this episode, Kyle Skalisky shares how he helps teams build cultures of trust, respect, and accountability through his company Wyld Sky Aerospace and Management Consulting. After 23 years as a fighter pilot (F-15, F-16 aggressor, and F-18 in operational flight tests) and 15 years in the aerospace industry doing flight tests, Kyle recently stepped down as president and CEO of Check Six Aero Solutions to focus on giving back. His book "A Skyless Traveled: A Maverick Life of Leadership, Resilience, and the Pursuit of Purpose" shares lessons learned from the cockpit about building exceptional teams. Kyle believes good teams need three things: character (how people treat those who can do nothing for them), competence (people who can get the job done and are willing to learn), and commitment to the mission. He also wrote the book for his six and four-year-old sons, wanting to leave something showing what their father did for 50 years before they were born. Kyle reveals three relationships that shaped him: meeting President Ronald Reagan at his Air Force Academy graduation in 1984, whose speech about being solution-oriented rather than a naysayer set the tone for his career; his parents who married at 16, had six kids by 29, and just celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary teaching him dedication and never giving up on people; and his best friend Malibu, a talented pilot who died at 30 when he hit the ground during a Red Flag exercise. Witnessing 10-11 deaths in 23 years of flying changed Kyle's perspective—he stopped worrying about what people thought and started pursuing what brought joy, realizing that if no one will remember it in five years, it's just not that important.   [00:04:20] From CEO to Giving Back Recently stepped down as president and CEO of Check Six Aero Solutions Now runs Wyld Sky Aerospace and Management Consulting Wrote book "A Skyless Traveled: A Maverick Life of Leadership, Resilience, and the Pursuit of Purpose" Serves wonderful wife Dr. Kyra Carpenter and two boys Wilder (6) and Colt (4) [00:06:00] Why Write the Book Experience is great but people never get opportunity to pass it on to next generation All people's stories are wonderful, wishes more could tell them Wants to lift up next generation that will follow Wrote book for his 6 and 4-year-old boys as older father [00:06:40] Leaving a Legacy Doesn't know how long he gets to be with boys growing up Wanted to leave something showing 50 years before they were born Show what their father did and what he believed in Pass message down to true legacy: children and family [00:07:20] Growing Up in Wenatchee, Washington Parents married at 16, had six children by 29 Didn't have much but knew wanted to do something bigger Didn't fly on airplane until 17 years old, senior in high school First flight was to Air Force Academy physical at Whidbey Island [00:08:00] The First Flight That Changed Everything Had state playoff baseball game that afternoon across state Local orchardist Jim Wade flew him in Cessna 172 Flying over Cascade Mountains, seeing Mount Rainier was transformative Changed into uniform in car, was third batter, hit three-run homer off future major leaguer [00:09:00] Air Force Academy and Finding His Passion Second time flying was leaving for US Air Force Academy (only way to get to college) Got exposed to things small town guy never traveled beyond family station wagon Found passion for flying airplanes at young age Stumbled into it with no idea it would be 23 years as fighter pilot [00:10:00] Fighter Pilot Career Flew F-15 operationally around the world for 23 years Was F-16 aggressor (adversary/bad guy that trains combat pilots) Did exchange tour with US Navy, flew F-18 in operational flight tests Retired after 23 years, went to Raytheon [00:10:40] Entrepreneurial Years Owned Great Harvest Bread company franchise (had a bakery) Co-owner of pro indoor football league team in Spokane Taught him when it's your own money, think more about spending it Helped when managing other people's money at Raytheon and Mitsubishi [00:13:20] Proudest Moment: The Team That Didn't Need Me At Raytheon, experimental R&D test airplane transitioning from single customer Customer said they don't want exclusive use anymore, won't pay for it Five year task to redefine mission, vision, create new organization After five years: "This team doesn't need me anymore, they can do this without me" [00:14:40] From One Program to 15 Had to go out and advertise capability to other Raytheon programs Restructured team to support multiple test projects instead of just one Asset went from supporting one program to 15-16 programs Worth billions of dollars in sales to Raytheon [00:15:40] Mitsubishi: Six Months of Success Mitsubishi trying to certify new regional jet, program having problems Took over program management and flight test team Program for previous 5 years never met schedule or been on budget Within first month, for next 6 months straight met schedule and under budget [00:17:00] Refocusing the Team Just through refocusing team, aligning tasks to priorities Giving people clear idea of what they did and why important to mission Aligned the focus and became best flight test team in business Better than Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, Embraer or any large OEMs [00:19:00] Character, Competence, and Commitment Good teams have people full of character (how they treat those who can do nothing for them) Team needs competence (people who can get job done, willing to learn and improve) Third C is commitment to what they're doing Finding right people with all three is when you will succeed [00:21:20] Meeting President Ronald Reagan Air Force Academy graduation 1984, Reagan handed him diploma Speech that day embodied how Kyle wanted to live his life Not enough to be naysayer pointing out everything wrong Have to be person who can bring forward solutions [00:22:40] Reagan's Impact Shaped views about what was valuable throughout life Optimistic but understood reality, charismatic but not fake Had guiding principles but willing to change Genuinely liked people (important for any leader) [00:24:00] His Parents' Influence Parents are who really had impact on who he became Never made it feel like they gave up something for kids Felt true blessing was getting to have kids in their lives Father was athlete of year, worked morning job, bartended at night while in college [00:25:40] 72 Years Together Parents both 88 years old, just had 72nd wedding anniversary Even when times are hard, don't give up on people, work through it Father didn't become major league player but channeled into coaching Oldest brother became professional baseball player with Philadelphia Phillies [00:27:00] Learning to Live in the Moment Finding joy means learning to live in the moment Let go of past but learn lessons, don't let it define you Don't be so focused on future that you forget what's in front of you Take opportunities that may take you on detour in life [00:28:20] Losing Malibu Best friend Jim "Malibu" Reynolds was academy graduate, talented flyer Designed and built own aerobatic airplane, flew in air shows Made mistake on range in Red Flag exercise, hit ground and died at 30 Changed Kyle at 30 years old, realized it can all end very quickly [00:29:40] 10 Deaths in 23 Years Saw at least 10-11 deaths in 23 years of flying Changed how he looked at things and approached them Before worried about everything, how people thought of him Now: if no one will remember in 5 years, it's just not that important [00:33:00] The Squadron Bar Ritual Friday nights not just about drinking, it's a ritual Chance to bond with people going through similar experience Way to relax, find friendship and bonding in non-retribution way Learned more in one-on-one conversations than formal meetings   KEY QUOTES "I wrote a book because I have those six and four-year-old boys. I am an older father and I don't know how long I get to be with those boys growing up. I wanted to leave something to show for those 50 years before they were born, what their father did and what I believed in." - Kyle Skalisky "Good teams have people full of character. You can't define that on a resume. It's how people treat those who can do nothing for them. But you also have to have competence. Then the third C is commitment." - Kyle Skalisky CONNECT WITH KYLE SKALISKY 

What if your journey from poverty to six countries was shaped by stepping stones of relationships? In this episode, Ghazenfer Mansoor shares how Technology Rivers helps health tech companies build HIPAA compliant software products and helps healthcare service businesses 10x their operations through AI and technology. With a computer science background and experience building a recruitment SaaS company, Ghazenfer started Technology Rivers with one core philosophy: build it right the first time. Too many founders hire developers and end up with never-ending products that keep building but never launch. His team focuses on helping startups with limited money build the right MVP so they can get traction, get customers, and secure more funding. The work creates a double bottom line: supporting businesses solving world problems while creating opportunities and livelihoods for people across six countries. He reveals that his journey wasn't shaped by one person, but by stepping stones of relationships. Growing up in Pakistan in poverty, mentors and friends guided him toward education and opportunities that eventually brought him to the US. Coaches, entrepreneurial groups like EO, and books like "Who Not How" all shaped his direction. The most powerful story? Exchanging business cards at a conference. Months later, that person called about a project. Over six years, that one card exchange generated close to $2 million in business.   [00:05:20] What Technology Rivers Does Software development business serving health tech companies primarily Started helping all verticals but gradually focused just on health tech Help companies build HIPAA compliant software products Work with healthcare service businesses, help them 10x operations through AI and technology [00:06:00] Build It Right the First Time Wanted to fix problem of never-ending products that keep building but never launch Companies hiring developers with products that are never ending Founders have limited money, need to build right MVP to get traction and funding Help startups build products right the first time so they're not broke if it doesn't work [00:08:00] Creating Double Bottom Line Impact Help companies create solutions that solve world's problems Every founder working with them is solving something, changing the world Also creating opportunities for people supporting those projects Team in six different countries, many in growing economies, creating livelihoods [00:10:20] AI is the Biggest Shift Started career in early web, but AI is even much bigger shift Mind blowing how things are moving, but also creating opportunities Much easier now for people who want to create companies and solutions AI not just solving existing problems but bringing new problems to solve [00:12:00] Journey Shaped by Series of Relationships Not just one person, journey shaped by series of relationships as stepping stones Growing up in Pakistan, mentor guided him to take risky opportunity That opportunity created by colleague in same company Friend said "you have to do your master's degree" when Ghazenfer only had diploma [00:13:00] From Poverty to Possibility Friend showed the path, arranged meeting, pushed toward higher education Was in poverty, didn't have means for education People supported along the way giving opportunities on jobs or introducing to something Each opportunity helped get to next step [00:13:40] Coming to the United States Would not have been in US without those opportunities Friend introduced to recruiter who was recruiting for company in US Coach helped see certain things in way he hadn't seen before Entrepreneurial groups (EO, Vistage forums) helped shape journey [00:14:40] Books That Shaped Direction "The Great Game of Business" by Jack Stack - partnership made based on this book "Who Not How" by Dan Sullivan - amazing book "What Got You Here Won't Get You There" by Marshall Goldsmith "How to Win Friends and Influence Others" by Dale Carnegie [00:15:40] Taking the Leap Created own podcast, started speaking engagements Wrote first book "Beyond the Download: How to Build Mobile Apps That People Love, Use, and Share Every Day" Now writing another book All these people contributed to growth, wouldn't be fair to point to just one person [00:19:20] Clients as Partners and Coaches Client gave guidance and tips that helped do things in certain way Coaching came directly from client to team: "If you do it this way, this would help me" Relationship with clients has always been as partners Client guided in terms of how to do things, shaped development effort [00:22:00] Co-Creation is Key Software development and product development can only work if co-creating Not about giving instructions and just doing it Believe in co-creation as collaborative effort Client comes with idea, have to discuss, brainstorm, come up with right way [00:23:40] Challenging in a Positive Way Someone said "you would challenge our client's business approaches" Don't challenge their decision, communicate and make sure they hear alternate options Challenge in positive way: "Have you thought about this alternate option?" Show three ways of doing something with one recommendation [00:24:40] Three Options, One Recommendation Not making decision for client, letting client make decision Giving enough information to make the decision If only give one option and it doesn't go well, it's a problem Software products need that product approach with enough guidance and information [00:27:00] The Power of Physical Business Cards At conferences, people say "Who uses cards nowadays?" Challenge: Once you leave a conference, how do you remember who you connected with? If just connect on LinkedIn, no reference left when you have thousands of contacts Physical cards are cheaper and provide tangible reminder [00:27:40] The $2 Million Card Exchange Years ago at conference, sitting with someone, exchanged cards Few months later, guy called: "We were on same table, you gave me your card" Working on global software project, needed help Got that project, then partner introduced them to another company [00:28:40] Six Years of Business from One Card After six months of work, got another project, then another one Over six years timeframe, got close to $2 million in business From that one card exchange From that point, focused on improving quality of card and keeps bunch with him [00:29:20] Cards Keep You Top of Mind Cards are cheap but provide reminder when back at home or office In sales they talk about follow ups: be in front of people at right time Traditional way but works for Ghazenfer Still keeps bunch with him all the time [00:36:20] Be the Go-To Person Book "Networking is Not Working" by Derek Coburn resonated Want to be go-to person for anything - even if someone needs a plumber Are you the person who's connected to many that friends always call? If you are that person, makes huge difference   KEY QUOTES "Software development, product development can only work if you are co-creating something. If the clients are giving instructions, then we're just like everybody else, then we are not really doing our work. We believe in co-creation." - Ghazenfer Mansoor "You wanna be the go-to person for anything. If somebody even needs a plumber, who do they call? Are you the person who's connected to many that your friends are always calling you?" - Ghazenfer Mansoor (quoting Derek Coburn) CONNECT WITH GHAZENFER MANSOOR 

What if a simple LinkedIn message could get you on the phone with decision-makers immediately? In this episode, Jason Fishman shares how DNA has worked on over 500 investment crowdfunding campaigns that have collectively produced nine figures of capital. His agency specializes in investor marketing and user acquisition, helping brands raise capital through Reg CF, Reg A+, and Reg D filings. Jason's mission stems from a sobering statistic: nine out of ten businesses fail in their first year, and nine out of ten that survive fail the next year. Many of them fail because they're undercapitalized. By using his digital marketing skillset to bring the right investors to marketing funnels and measure actual conversion and return on ad spend, Jason helps companies that are having trouble meeting new investors access the capital they need to survive and thrive. He reveals how he met his business partner Tim Martinez at a 2009 conference after almost skipping a workshop. Jason waited in line 10-15 minutes just to talk to Tim, and that conversation eventually led to co-founding DNA together. Jason also shares his LinkedIn outreach strategy: send 25 invitations per day with customized messaging, look for a 20% acceptance rate, and include a scheduling link by message three. This simple tactic helped DNA connect with FINRA regulated portals and build the strategic partnerships that became instrumental to their success.   [00:05:20] DNA: Investor Marketing and User Acquisition Focused on investor acquisition, targeting investors with advertising and outreach Worked on over 500 deals that collectively produced nine figures of capital Campaigns in 2025 alone have surpassed $100 million raised altogether Helps brands that are having trouble meeting new investors [00:06:20] Why Jason Does This Work Nine out of ten businesses fail in first year, nine out of ten that survive fail the next year Many fail because they're undercapitalized Can use digital marketing skillset to bring right investors to marketing funnel Measure conversion, return on ad spend, total transactional value [00:07:20] Background in Ad Tech Part of social gaming startup in Los Angeles, played role in capital raise Raised over $3 million in seed capital, created countless versions of deck Company merged with advertising network, started working with Fortune 500s Quickly found fundraising was common part of conversation [00:08:20] First Campaign: $2.83 Million First campaign through Reg D 506(c) which allows solicitation of accredited investors Able to target high net worth, high household income audiences with advertising Raised $2.83 million on first campaign for Rayon Solar back in 2015 Reg CF (Regulation Crowdfunding) went into effect May 2016 [00:09:00] The Filings Available Today Can raise up to $5 million on Reg CF campaign Up to $75 million on Regulation A+ campaign (hoping for $150 million soon) Important to have specialization and niche as marketing agency Fell into this area, succeeded, kept getting introductions [00:11:00] What Inspires Jason Most Stat that nine out of ten businesses fail is not acceptable Part of LA accelerator community, works with universities and founders Want to make sure right eyeballs are on their products, companies, brands Funding could be make or break for them [00:12:00] Watching Companies Grow Watch clients' teams grow, their offices, their equipment, market share Seen groups go from $20 million valuations to $3.5 billion valuations Part of Crowdfund Professional Association working on tax credit for investors Would put Regulation Crowdfunding on tax form for every American [00:15:40] Meeting Tim Martinez in 2009 Met at SR Action Sports Retail conference in San Diego Almost didn't attend workshop, last minute walked into "50 Ways to Promote Your Skate Shop" Tim was professional skateboarder, worked in snow/skate/surf sports world 50-100 business owners taking notes on everything Tim said [00:16:20] Waiting in Line 15 Minutes Had to wait in line 10-15 minutes to talk to Tim after presentation First thing Tim asked: "How old are you?" (Tim few years older) Hit it off, had great discussion Tim said "I'm in Hollywood, you're in Hollywood, why don't we grab coffee sometime?" [00:17:00] The Path to Partnership Started pulling Tim into projects at agency, later worked for Tim's agency When Jason was at ad network, Tim asked if interested in starting new firm Tim was consulting companies with no idea about digital marketing Created DNA together, Tim has brought in countless introductions since [00:19:00] Don't Be Bashful Don't let self-doubt and little thoughts stop you ("maybe I'm too young or he's busy") Everyone wants to talk to speakers, why stick around? But Jason did Speakers are there for a reason, looking to have outcome for their time They're thought leaders, experts, probably things you can do together [00:20:40] How Tim Led to Crowdfunding Wouldn't have been possible without relationship with Tim Tim's relationship with Fundable introduced them to Reg D campaigns After success, Tim had friend in film industry with crowdfunding company That partner brought them to first Reg CF campaign in May 2016 [00:25:20] Building Strategic Partnerships Building strategic partnerships has been instrumental to success Would tell founder to incorporate into business plan, marketing plan, model Went to great lengths because saw how effective it was LinkedIn outreach in 2017-2018 got DNA on phone with portals right and left [00:26:00] The LinkedIn Strategy Can send 25 invitations per day from your profile Search by company, job title, company size, industry, zip code Send message with invitation, look for 20% or higher acceptance rate By message three, add scheduling link to streamline booking process [00:27:00] Customized Outreach Have very clear call to action, very visible opportunity on how to connect Every founder, if not every professional, should be doing this Start manually, really customize messaging Build relationships with people who can introduce you to target audience [00:30:00] Do More Don't think "I have a few relationships, I'll hit my goal" It's all about driving enough traffic at high enough conversion rate 50,000 visits per million raised at 2% conversion rate and $1,000-$2,000 average investment Engage experts, talk to people, do not be bashful   KEY QUOTES "It's all about relationships. Your net worth is your network. Some people say it the other way around. Your network is your net worth." - Jason Fishman "Whether they're on television or a billionaire or leading a workshop or whatever it may look like, don't be afraid to go up to 'em and talk to 'em. There's no telling what it could look like 16 years into that relationship." - Jason Fishman "Building strategic partnerships has been instrumental to the success of our business, and it's something I would tell a founder to incorporate into their business plan, marketing plan, and their model." - Jason Fishman CONNECT WITH JASON FISHMAN 

What if the contract you didn't get was actually the answer to your prayer? In this episode, Eric Collett shares how he helps entrepreneurs and executives optimize their brain health to function at an elite level. His work goes upstream, identifying the trajectory decades before diseases like Alzheimer's show symptoms, because most people don't realize that Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases generally start decades before the first symptoms appear. Eric's team has developed the Enhance Protocol, helping clients improve brain function by 20-30% so they can learn faster, understand new technologies more rapidly, find words faster, have more stable mental health, and prevent cognitive decline to stay in the game longer. He reveals losing what would've been his biggest contract in Arizona. After two weeks of silence following a handshake agreement, he prayed: "If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen." The CEO called to say they'd met nurse practitioner Randy Vawdrey who could actually reverse cognitive decline. Eric told them "You should work with Randy, that's a huge opportunity." Months later, Randy called to collaborate. They met at 6pm and talked until after midnight going through a Bible-sized stack of research. Within six months, Eric asked Randy to become his business partner, a relationship that put him through an intentional crash course in med school for years.   [00:05:20] Optimal Brain Health is Required Believes optimal brain health required for optimal results in business and life Brain is like hardware, everything we're learning and striving to do is like software Loading new software on crummy old dysfunctional hardware never gets great results Good brain health needed for better relationships, better business [00:06:00] Improving Brain Function by 20-30% Team developed organized system to identify root cause issues affecting brain performance Make specific recommendations, track objectively Help people improve brain function by 20-30% Can learn faster, understand new technologies more rapidly, find words faster, have more stable mental health [00:07:20] Who They Serve All ages: younger people with traumatic brain injuries, people in 30s with brain fog People 50-80 noticing things aren't what they used to be Especially focus on entrepreneurs and executives who want to function at elite level Most people miss opportunity to quantify it objectively instead of just guessing [00:10:00] Gary Plummer: From Doorknob to Stage Gary Plummer played linebacker for San Francisco 49ers, won Super Bowl ring Shortly after retiring, couldn't remember how to install doorknob (had done many times) Could go from zero to fighting mad at drop of hat, had to isolate from people Wouldn't drive on freeways, wouldn't travel without handler to meet at airport [00:11:20] The Transformation Eric's team helped take Gary's cognitive scores from 58th percentile to 86th percentile Several years later, now above average overall on tests Got to watch Gary step on stage at Forever Young Foundation event in Arizona Had quit speaking because he would lose train of thought, now presenting confidently [00:13:40] Alzheimer's Starts Decades Before Symptoms Nationally recognized expert, spoken in 39 of 50 states to healthcare professionals Alzheimer's and diseases like Parkinson's generally start decades before first symptoms We've grown up in "sick care system" that waits till you have serious problem 40-95% of Alzheimer's cases believed to be preventable [00:18:00] Think of Your Brain as a Boat When things are good, riding high in water, moving at top speed When not good, starting to take on water Common for people to get forgetful as they get older, but that's not normal, that's evidence of disease Brain health is never about one thing, it's multifactorial (80-100 things) [00:19:20] One Client: 68th to 99th Percentile Client is 42 years old, wrote LinkedIn article about experience Went from 68th percentile in cognitive functioning to 99th percentile Getting better results in life and business today Has lot more assurance he's changed trajectory for tomorrow [00:20:40] The Contract I Didn't Get Early 2017, started A Mind For All Seasons as solopreneur Opportunity to work with Arizona company designing memory care program for entire portfolio Met with owners, left with handshake agreement, supposed to get contract in couple days Couple days turned into more than two weeks [00:22:00] The Prayer Prayed: "I want this to happen, this would make my year" "If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen" "I promise I will be grateful, I may not understand it, but I can be grateful in all things" Within day or two, CEO called [00:22:20] Meeting Randy Vawdrey CEO said they met nurse practitioner with advanced training in neurodegenerative diseases Randy had done fellowship with Dr. Bredesen at UCLA, Buck Institute for Research on Aging Dr. Bredesen's 2014 paper "Reversal of Cognitive Decline" showed 9 out of 10 patients with remarkable improvement Company said "We can't afford both Randy and you, we're going to work with Randy" [00:23:40] "You Should Work With Randy" Eric told them "You should, that's a huge opportunity, no one's doing that" They suggested "You should call Randy, he lives in Idaho like you do" Eric thought "I'm not gonna call Randy, I don't have time, I just lost biggest contract" Hustled for couple months [00:24:20] Randy Called Randy called out of the blue, said company wanted him to train staff "I'm a clinician, I don't do that, I want to explore collaborating" Eric was driving through Randy's part of state next week, said "Why don't we get together?" Went to Randy's house at 6pm, was there till after midnight [00:25:00] The Bible-Sized Stack of Research Randy brought out huge Bible-sized stack of research, slammed it on coffee table Started going through footnotes of the footnotes, what he'd learned with real patients Eric left 100% recognizing they could make far bigger difference Had agreement to split the contract, neither would make much money [00:25:40] "Will You Be My Business Partner?" Within six months Eric said "Randy, what are we doing dating? We need to work together" "Will you be my business partner? Let's go all in on this" All these years later still working together, still innovating Randy put Eric through intentional crash course in med school [00:26:00] The Education Every Friday and Monday morning at 7am for a few years, met for hour or two Randy taught Eric how to read labs, physiology and science behind everything Continued teaching ever since "Short of my own family, he has done more to affect my life than any human on the planet" [00:27:40] The Vision: Impact a Million Lives Current goal: impact another million lives in next two to three years Eight billion people on planet, everybody has brain, everybody needs optimal brain health Majority of Americans not metabolically healthy Alzheimer's nicknamed "diabetes of the brain" [00:32:40] Social Engagement Reduces Cognitive Decline From research standpoint, being more socially engaged reduces risk of cognitive decline Not only better in business and more joy in life, it's better for your brain Prioritizing relationships and being connected matters deeply for cognitive and mental health   KEY QUOTES "Diseases like Alzheimer's disease, which I'm a nationally recognized expert in. I've literally talked in 39 of the 50 states to healthcare professionals. Most people don't realize that Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's generally start decades before the first symptoms ever show up." - Eric Collett "I prayed and I literally said, I want this to happen. This would just make my year. If it's not the right thing, please don't let it happen, and I promise that I will be grateful. I may not understand it, but I can be grateful in all things." - Eric Collett "Being more socially engaged actually reduces the risk of cognitive decline. So not only are things better in business, and not only do you have more joy in life, it's actually better for your brain." - Eric Collett CONNECT WITH ERIC COLLETT 

What if feeling like you only had a stick on the battlefield was the moment God showed you the sword? In this episode, Francis Piché shares his declaration: to create the best men's group in the world for conscious men who want to establish something beyond their own life. The Knight Club isn't just about mission, it's about working on that mission together with brothers who share the heroic code (humility, excellence, respect, optimism, integrity, and courage). His vision? Chapters around the world where men can travel to Paris, London, Barcelona, or Sydney and know they'll connect with people like them who they can do life and business with. Francis was inspired by a recent trip to Scotland where he felt deeply connected to the knighthood and brotherhood, realizing this is his next chapter. He reveals the dark night in Orange County when he felt so powerless that ending it all seemed like the only option. Financial debt, feeling worthless in a place full of luxury cars, unable to even talk to a woman because his self-esteem was on the floor. After rejecting his friend's money in anger, he told his brother Jason he felt like all he had on the battlefield was a stick, not even a sword. That conversation saved his life. Later, Francis asked for the photo of the bright star he'd seen that night. The star's name? Sisaph, which means "the sword of the giant." God had the story for him all along. Francis also shares how his sales mentor Bob Smith told him after selling his entire year's quota in six months: "What do you mean 150%? Your goal is 200%. That's how successful people think."   [00:07:06] The Knight Club Declaration Declaration: Create the best men's group in the world for conscious men, men of faith Men who want to establish something beyond their own life, creating a legacy Rising together in ups and downs, working on mission together Differentiator: Not only thinking about mission, working on it with Thinking Into Results program [00:08:40] The Vision: Chapters Around the World Vision inspired by recent Scotland trip, felt connected to knighthood and brotherhood Imagine chapters everywhere: Paris, London, Barcelona, Sydney, South America Connect with people like you who share the heroic code Can do life and business with them, have great time traveling [00:09:20] The Heroic Code Humility, excellence, respect, optimism, integrity, and courage All guys in group embody these attributes, you can rely on this Creating retreats for men, sometimes incorporating women together Traveling, connecting great people, business owners, dreamers who want to make difference [00:11:40] Am I Alive While I'm Alive? Best friend died last year out of nowhere at 47 Asked himself: "Am I alive while I'm alive? Am I having a bold life?" Bold means: Brave, Original, Loving, and having Dedication to a cause/mission Purpose of life: be fully alive, being free, helping others, making a difference [00:17:00] The Dark Night in Orange County Two-three years ago, perfect storm: waiting for clients not responsive, deeply in debt Felt not good for own clients, business not showing up, felt powerless and meaningless Saw beautiful woman at hookah bar but too scared to talk, she left in McLaren Friend Simon teased "Be a man, why don't you talk to her?" hitting self-esteem to floor [00:19:20] The Stick on the Battlefield Rejected friend's money with gesture he felt, was rejecting own friend and self "What's the point? Why am I here? I'm not even a man" Only reason didn't consider ending it: didn't want burden of bringing body back to parents Friend Jason had long conversation, wouldn't let him give up [00:21:00] The Sword of the Giant Told Jason: "If I was on battlefield right now, all I have is a stick, not even a sword" After conversation felt reignited, asked for photo of bright star from that night Looked up name of star: Sisaph, which means "the sword of the giant" "God had that story for you. You're the giant, you're the star. Remember this." [00:22:20] The Power of Brotherhood Moment of reawakening the giant within Not just support in bad times, also celebrating good times All have ceilings, all have pressure (next exit, firing employees, etc.) Requires new identity to go to next level [00:24:40] The Godfather's Wisdom At 16, godfather gave birthday card: "Don't choose job for paycheck" "Do what makes your heart come alive, otherwise you'll be poor all your life" Chose multinational job for $55K over $30K small organization that offered travel Was miserable for four years, flames diminished every day [00:26:20] Found the Card 20 Years Later At 36, found the card and realized: "He was right" Associated being successful with getting all that, which is a lie If you have enough of your why and excitement, you'll go through challenges Purpose of living: to be fully enlivened [00:27:20] Bob Smith: The Sales Mentor Week before starting new job at Xerox, fiancée said "I want to cancel the wedding" Three months before wedding, she left next day, "house of cards collapsed" Sales coach Bob Smith at bootcamp helped him recreate himself Bob's lesson: "Seven things to be a successful salesperson... #7 most important: Have fun" [00:29:00] "You Can Do Anything You Want" After bootcamp, thanked Bob for the week Bob put hand on shoulder, piercing eyes: "I've watched you this week" "You can do anything you want in your life. It's just up to you" Gave permission to go for it [00:29:40] Sold Entire Year in Six Months Won rookie of the year, at six months sold whole year's quota Told Bob "My goal now is 150% for President's Club" Bob: "What do you mean 150%? Your goal is 200%. That's how successful people think" Ended at 167% of plan, almost best in entire company, second place [00:37:20] Are You Alive While You're Alive? Friend passed away from running, something burst in heart, died at 47 Life is precious, not just at 65-80, but now Mission: make sure fully playing game, not playing small Other friend with cancer chose date, said: "Never let anyone or anything sway you from who you really are"   KEY QUOTES "The name of the star was Sisaph, which means the sword of the giant. All along, while you're at your lowest point, God had that story for you. You're the giant, you're the star." - Francis Piché "You can do anything you want in your life. It's just up to you." - Bob Smith (to Francis) CONNECT WITH FRANCIS PICHÉ 

What if the most powerful communicators aren't the most polished ones? In this episode, Dia Bondi shares how watching a three-day communication skills class transformed her life. She had no resume to support her desire, but she made the ask that changed everything: "Will you apprentice me?" That mentor said yes, and 25 years later, she's still helping leaders speak powerfully from who they truly are. Dia's work goes beyond messaging to something deeper: helping clients articulate what they have to say before figuring out how to say it. She's coached VC-backed founders past Series B, VP-level executives, and even helped Rio de Janeiro win the right to host the 2016 Olympics (a $7 billion decision) without ever knowing who referred her. Dia reveals the six attributes of the most compelling communicators: they make the choice to be big in big moments, they know how to make strategic asks, they absolutely know their voice, they've got killer setups for their asks, they bridge their voice to the business really well, and they prep on purpose by actually talking through what they'll say.  She shares the story of a founder who created a 40-minute story to invite existing customers to help inform what gets built next. That task drove $10 million of value in the business. Dia also explains why the most powerful moment in her career might have been her first deal that included both cash and shares, because once she did it once, she now had the confidence and understanding to recreate it over and over again.   [00:08:20] The Ask That Changed My Life Watched three-day communication skills class about storytelling in business Had no resume to support desire to do that work Asked if he would apprentice her, and he did 25 years later still finds it compelling because it truly moves the needle for people [00:10:20] What You Have to Say vs. How to Say It Messaging is "how do I say it?" but Dia lives in the step before that "What is it that you have to say?" Until a leader can articulate things that feel innate but aren't obvious, can't create the message First articulate what you have to say, then figure out how best to express it [00:12:00] The 40-Minute Story Worth $10 Million Former client needed to invite existing customers to participate in informing product development Put together compelling story bridging what founder has to say with story of business Set up really killer ask, 40-minute story to set up that ask Client secured participation needed, will drive about $10 million of value in business [00:17:20] The First Deal With Shares Introduction to blockchain company working directly with founders First time setting up deal that included both cash and shares It paid off, and importantly gave confidence and understanding Once you do it first time, now have opportunity to do it over and over because it's in your radar [00:20:00] Helping Rio Win the Olympics bid Got a request over the internet: "We heard you're good, can you give us a call?" Turned out to be production team working on Rio's bid for 2016 Olympics $7 billion decision, got to work in those teeny tiny rooms where stories get crafted Still doesn't know who referred her, but knows what part of work it came from [00:24:40] Six Attributes of Powerful Communicators One: Make choice to be big in big moments (not about being polished or showboat) Two: Know how to make strategic asks and use asking strategically Three: Absolutely know their voice and can give good feedback to creative collaborators Four: Got killer setups for the asks they make of partners [00:27:20] The Last Two Attributes Five: Bridge their own voice to the business really well Six: Prep on purpose by actually talking through it, not just thinking about it One founder's pregame routine: end call, go downstairs, change shirt, wash face, drink water If he did that six times in day, he'd go through six shirts [00:30:00] Kevin's $16.1 Million Conversation 2003, owned cleaning and restoration company with website producing $15,000/month Mentor Joe Polish: "Come speak at event, document what you do into a course" Had never spoken publicly before, invested in Speaker's Bootcamp training Made $35,000 in course sales that day, but that wasn't the big win [00:32:40] The Real Big Win Over next 12 years sold $16.1 million worth of that course All because of one conversation: "Why don't you come down and speak?" Brought energy, joyfulness, willingness to share with generosity When you're invited, say yes   KEY QUOTES "I made the ask that changed my life. That gentleman brought me in and let me watch his class. I asked if he would apprentice me, and he did." - Dia Bondi "The most compelling communicators make the choice to be big in big moments. And that's never about being a showboat." - Dia Bondi CONNECT WITH DIA BONDI 

What if saying your goals out loud, got you an email introducing you to your hero? In this episode, Cliff Ravenscraft shares how he walked away from a family insurance agency (started by his grandfather in 1937) where he was next in line to lead, all because of a podcast about the TV show Lost. After building an audience of 60,000 subscribers and receiving over 500 handwritten letters from people whose lives were transformed, Cliff realized his real calling wasn't selling insurance or being a pastor. It was teaching people how to use their voice to create content that matters. He's since helped over 40,000 people launch podcasts, but discovered something critical: nine out of ten failed because they skipped the first seven steps of building an online business. Step eight? Create content and build your audience. Everything else comes first. Cliff reveals the four-step formula that led to a $3 million relationship: believe it's possible, write it down, tell others, and work the plan as it becomes available. He also shares why his first year as a full-time entrepreneur, working 14-hour days seven days a week for $11,000, ended with a 24-hour podcast marathon and two weeks in the hospital where he almost died.   [00:05:00] Helping 40,000 People Launch Podcasts Left very lucrative career in family insurance agency started by grandfather in 1937 Went out to teach people how to launch podcasts Helped more than 40,000 people in the world launch a podcast Published over 4,800 podcast episodes across 55+ shows in 20 years [00:11:20] The First Year That Almost Killed Him First year full-time: 12-14 hours a day, seven days a week, not one day off first nine months Didn't receive single personal paycheck, just earned enough to pay business expenses End of year brought home $11,000 net personal income after taxes Celebrated with 24-hour podcast marathon, ended with two weeks in hospital [00:13:20] Why Nine Out of Ten Podcasters Fail In 2012, more than 50 of top 100 business podcasts were Cliff's clients But nine out of ten failed to ever see sustainable profit or any income Created 11-step framework for building online business Step number eight: create content and build audience (first seven steps were missed) [00:14:40] The Workshop That Changed Everything In 2017 stopped teaching podcasting, started coaching through what people missed One person earned no income before workshop, within two weeks secured $5,000/month recurring Coaches charging $50/hour walked out charging $300/hour "This is what fires me up" [00:16:40] Choose an Audience With Money Most people fail to choose audience that has money Ideal customer must have money, be aware of problem, willing to pay to solve it "I've got entire audience of tens of thousands and none of them have any money" Must validate they will pay before you create website, logo, podcast content [00:20:00] The Two Conditions At 18, convinced life would be devoted to ministry with servant's heart Parents asked him to work in insurance office because of computer skills Told parents: "You will never expect me to get insurance license" "If I'm offered opportunity to pastor church, I must get your full blessing to leave" [00:24:20] Top 10 Out of 14,000 Insurance Agents Year 2000, top 10 out of 14,000 agents with Grange Life Insurance Top 50 out of 48,000 agents with Auto Owners Life Insurance Sold 30-100 policies per month selling term life insurance All while competing against people selling permanent life (much higher premiums) [00:25:40] The Lost Podcast Changed Everything 2005, started podcasting as hobby about TV show Lost By third episode had 27,000 subscribers around the world Audience grew to over 60,000 subscribers Wooden inbox with over 500 handwritten letters: "Because of something you said, my life will never be the same" [00:28:00] Reaching Hundreds of Thousands Within 18 months reaching hundreds of thousands through seven different podcasts Producing seven to fifteen podcast episodes per week People's lives being transformed "I wonder what life would be like if I could do this for a living" [00:30:40] Testing the Four Step Formula Heard four-step formula: believe it's possible, write it down, tell others, work the plan Decided to test it with specific goal: meet Dan Miller and Leo LaPorte Didn't want to just meet at conference and be forgotten Wanted to tell them their influence and have them not forget meeting him [00:32:40] Forty Minutes After Hitting Publish Recorded podcast episode explaining formula and his goal Hit publish, 40 minutes later got email from Andy Troub (the connector) "I happen to be working on a project with Dan Miller. He's already aware of who you are" "Would you like me to introduce you?" [00:34:00] From Hero to Consulting Client One week later, Dan Miller was guest on Cliff's podcast After the interview, Dan asked "Can I schedule a consulting call with you?" Cliff told Dan audio quality was terrible, people can't make themselves listen Dan: "I really appreciate how honest you are. What do you recommend?" [00:35:00] The Weekend in Franklin, Tennessee Dan said order duplicate of everything in studio, ship to house "Come spend weekend with me, stay in guest room, help me build podcast studio" Dan started telling massive audience about Cliff Ravenscraft Cliff was booked solid for years because of that relationship [00:36:00] The Michael Hyatt Introduction Dan told Michael Hyatt (CEO Thomas Nelson Publishing) podcast was #1 marketing tool Dan did email introduction to Michael Hyatt Within a week, Cliff was in Franklin staying in Michael's guest room Setting up Michael's podcast studio [00:37:40] $3 Million in Revenue Between Dan Miller and Michael Hyatt relationships alone Can trace at least $3 million in revenue to those two Also met Leo LaPorte, both goals from four-step formula checked off Tested formula over and over, it worked every time [00:40:20] The 10-Step Formula Over time developed 10-step formula (includes four steps plus six others) Six other steps where you don't have to wait for plan to become available Ask series of questions that will give you next step Email cliff@cliffravenscraft.com with subject "10 step formula" for free video   KEY QUOTES  "I've got an entire audience of tens of thousands of people and none of them have any money, and none of them will buy any of my products and services. This is why you're creating content year after year with no real income." - Cliff Ravenscraft "Forty minutes after I published that episode, I got an email from Andy Troub saying Dan Miller is already aware of who you are, he's been having trouble with his podcast, would you like me to introduce you?" - Cliff Ravenscraft CONNECT WITH CLIFF RAVENSCRAFT 

What if restoring impossible relationships just required knowing what's on the other side? In this episode, Greg Stephens shares how 24 years as a master trainer for Crucial Conversations taught him that breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over. That realization led him to shift from training to coaching, creating a six-month program where executives and emerging leaders have conversations they never thought possible. His specialty? Seeing relationships like some people see music, orchestrating conversations where people show up as their best. Greg also reveals why his mentor Bill Solomon intentionally made his welding job miserable before college, teaching him the resilience he'd need to push through Baylor surrounded by wealthy students. Most powerfully, he explains "emotional accounting": why putting off a Friday conversation until Monday doesn't just ruin your weekend, it costs you exponentially more on the back end.   [00:04:44] What Alignment Resources Does Company goal: everyone eats at the trough (trainers train, coaches coach, sales people sell, speakers speak) Greg's specialty lives in areas of difficult relationships, everyone has at least one Works with relationships that seem impossible Application of Crucial Conversations tools for talking when stakes are high [00:05:40] Twenty-Four Years Teaching Crucial Conversations Was master trainer in Crucial Conversations, taught it for 24 years starting in 2001 Before the book was written, it was called "Path to Dialogue" then "Dialogue Smarts" One of first master trainers, stayed until January this year when he released his book Got to travel the world, train on stage, do keynote talks [00:06:00] Why Breakthroughs Need Practice People would take class, have great experience, have aha breakthrough moments Found that breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over If you want permanence around a breakthrough, you've gotta go do something That piece was lacking, so decided to shift business to coaching [00:06:20] The Six Month Coaching Program About six month program, 20 different weeks Teaching executives and emerging leaders (ages 21-28) Wanted to teach younger generation what executives said "I wish I'd learned this 20, 30 years ago" Most people say "I've had a coach before, this is nothing like it" [00:07:00] Building Up and Completing Relationships Build people up in relationships, let them go back and improve, clean up, or complete relationships Complete doesn't mean never see person again (could, but doesn't have to) Can work next to person and have completed relationship around an issue It just doesn't show up for you anymore because you know where you stand, said what you need to say [00:07:40] The Skills Most People Don't Have Coaches and mentors say "you need to go have this conversation," but how? There are skill sets you need, the application of them, and how to make adjustments People talk about psychological safety but don't know how to create it What to do when your emotions take hold or other person's emotions take hold [00:08:20] How to Really Listen When You Disagree How do you begin to really listen when you disagree with everything being said? How do you get on the right topic? Most people don't know how to dissect and break down conversations Greg helps dissect it and break it down for people [00:08:40] Executives on Retainer Some executives don't want to learn all skill sets, just want someone to do it for them Working with groups on retainer where they call when they have big problem They lay out background, what they've done, then Greg lays out plan for conversation Role plays exactly what might happen, clients say "it was like you were right there" [00:10:00] When People Don't Show Up as Their Best Sometimes people have breakdown, don't show up as their best, come back saying "I really blew it" Great learning point, it needed to be this way Limiting belief: thinking it's over when conversation goes badly When you know these skills, you can go back over and over and reset [00:11:20] What Drives Greg Most Watching people restore relationships they thought were just not possible Worked with police captains on issue, individual conversations showed no one thought it could be done Scheduled for four sessions, had breakthrough after first session One person took responsibility for their part, allowed everyone else to take responsibility [00:13:00] It's Still Hard Even With Skills People say "you have the skill, you should be able to do it" Greg still doesn't like having difficult conversations Doesn't want to have the conversation, but wants what's on the other side "Stop looking at the conversation right now. Let's look at what you want beyond that." [00:14:00] Work is Easy, Personal is Hard When working with businesses, always eventually get to their personal lives Those are the much more difficult conversations Work is easy, we all want to make more money and enjoy work Hardest ones are family businesses with so much emotion and unspoken hierarchy [00:16:00] Bill Solomon Changed Everything Gentleman who wrote forward to Greg's book, had heart transplant before writing it Bill told Greg "I'm so glad you asked me to write the forward because I couldn't stop writing" Two months later Bill had book of his own called "Losing Control" (in his seventies) Was the person who pointed Greg toward something more in his life [00:17:20] The Welding Job That Taught Resilience Bill gave Greg job before college as welder's helper (Bill was CFO of company) Told the guys "You're gonna like this guy I'm bringing in, but treat him like crap" "Tear him down every day. Make him feel stupid. You're gonna begin to like him. Make it hard on him." Never told Greg this was happening [00:18:20] Breaking the Golden Handcuffs Wouldn't have business today without Bill Solomon Getting through Baylor, getting great job, then getting out of job and breaking golden handcuffs Starting own business in 1999, none of that would've happened Bill took interest, made it difficult on purpose, said "you're gonna be a great leader one day" [00:21:40] Greg Reynolds Called Every Day After Greg's divorce, Greg Reynolds called him every day for three months All he said was "How you doing today? How you doing today?" One of hardest times Greg ever went through Showed Greg the power of that, he's done same thing for friend of his [00:22:20] Taking Interest in People If you really want to take interest in a person, find out what they're doing every day Every one of these gentlemen shaped how Greg mentors others Having conversations he never would've had, saying what he never would've said Taking interest like Bill Solomon did, being there like his coaches [00:24:40] "What Do You Want to Do?" Woman was looking at situation from the past when she didn't have skills Now she does have skills "Question isn't what they want or what I want to do. It's what do you want to do?" She got quiet: "I want to have the conversation." [00:25:00] Over 20 Resets to Stay on Track They practiced again, she went and had conversation Wrote amazing email about how each time she had to stop herself and come back Get conversation back on track by sharing your best intent Had to do that more than 20 times [00:28:20] Investing Upfront vs. Costing on Back End If you add skillset and knew how to address it, you'd say "I'm not wasting my weekend" Have conversation, no matter what outcome, it's out of you Have entire weekend to problem solve whatever that was and learn about what you did Used time wisely by investing upfront rather than it costing you on back end [00:31:40] Marcus Newcomb Connection Marcus Newcomb is special person, they hit it off Greg has gotten to meet so many great people networking and marketing his book Kevin is "the real deal"   KEY QUOTES "Breakthroughs aren't permanent until they're practiced over and over. So if you want permanence around a breakthrough, you've gotta go do something." - Greg Stephens "If you really want to take interest in a person, find out what they're doing every day." - Greg Stephens "My life is built on the shoulders of all my friends and people in my life that have shown me so much." - Greg Stephens CONNECT WITH GREG STEPHENS 

What if the book you're writing is actually about the story holding you back? In this episode, Amanda Johnson shares how twenty years of helping entrepreneurs write books revealed something most people never see: the reason you can't finish your book usually has nothing to do with time, organization, or writing skills. It's the old stories you're carrying that keep one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake. Amanda's work goes far beyond traditional book coaching. She creates what she calls "story saving" experiences where high-achieving entrepreneurs finally see the truth they've been avoiding. She tells the remarkable story of a social worker writing a "choose your own adventure" book about high-conflict divorces who spent 18 months unable to get one character right. Amanda kept trying to show her client she was writing her own husband, but the truth wasn't safe enough to see yet.  After a decade of watching hybrid publishing houses destroy clients' carefully-built brands with covers that would "completely disrupt trust," Amanda's 19-year-old entrepreneurial son suggested while she cursed in the kitchen: "Mom, how about we just build a publishing house?" Now, with her son as business partner and youngest sister as creative designer, Amanda runs Saved By Story, a boutique hybrid publisher where every detail honors the transformational work her clients have done.    [00:03:40] Entrepreneurial DNA Raised with entrepreneurial grandparents, it's in her DNA Accounts for rebellious spirit: entrepreneurs see problems and think "I could fix that" Thought she was going to be a Christian journalist at end of high school Got to university, asked to be part of honors program (classic books program) [00:04:40] Learning to Think Critically Four and a half years wrestling with great ideas and stories that formed civilization Hadn't been taught how to think critically or feel greatly Halfway through decided: I want to get to teens before they're in college alone and disconnected Became a history teacher to help teens think critically and wrestle with big ideas [00:05:40] Bouncing Out of the System Got classroom with all gang bangers, drug dealers, kids nobody else wanted first semester "What is the logic here? Send the newbie to barely survive?" Did it for six months, gave absolute best Realized couldn't give it her all every day and show up as good mom for toddler [00:06:20] The Online Writing Program Friend of family starting online writing instruction program "You have teaching credential, writing chops, can do it anytime when your kid is sleeping" Helped build curriculum, got really great results Went to networking events to share the program [00:07:00] The Side Business That Changed Everything Female entrepreneurs said "I don't want you to teach me to write, I need you to fix what I've written" Opened side business helping people get clear on message, audience, and engagement Quickly found story was the answer Story was also the answer to why most people weren't finishing their books [00:08:40] The Retreat Model Today Mostly retreat and community model for busy, wildly successful individuals They need time away, good excuse to say "I'm out for three days, seven days" They know how to focus and achieve goals, but book always gets pushed to back burner All of a sudden five or ten years have gone by [00:09:20] Authorship is Lonely Like Entrepreneurship Not every entrepreneur writes book to establish authority Entrepreneurs can be very lonely working from home without water cooler experiences Gets exacerbated when someone decides to write: Who am I to write? How does one do this? Having community where everybody's in same soup moves people much more quickly [00:10:40] Two Types of Clients First type (15-20%): "I need this done in three months and published in another three" Example: Client franchising business in six months, needed book published first Wrote book in less than three months, published in another three months These clients know how to block time and make it happen [00:12:40] The Choose Your Own Adventure Book Works in high conflict divorces, helps judge sort out what's best for kids Wanted to write choose your own adventure for her career Family with parents and two children, both parents get three options each All sound amazing but only one actually is best, shows destination of each choice [00:13:40] Writing the Husband Character Writing family quite unfairly, good for women but men would say "What? She didn't do anything" Couldn't get one character right, Amanda realized she was writing her husband We write what we know Readers said "No way would I put this in front of male reader, this has to be changed" [00:15:20] Breaking Generational Patterns Didn't have enough safety in herself, writing character out helped her see truth Realized all the stuff in marriage was generational Has been able to break that generational story for her own kids This is the book "You Can't Make This Story Up" [00:16:00] Fifteen Years of Seeing People Stuck Could have been wounded story or something they didn't want to talk about Sometimes they'd been dimmed in childhood or got in trouble when they got visible One foot on gas, one foot on brake even though it's for great cause and fulfilling purpose Had to figure out what the brake was [00:16:40] After That Story, Everything Changed After 15 years of stories, decided to help other creatives and entrepreneurs learn about being stuck It's not just "not organized" or "not right time" or "I'm not good writer" Those are ego's convenient way of keeping us from changing the real story That lady worked for two or three years and still rewriting it three or four years later [00:17:20] Do It In Community If our souls know that hard work is coming, of course there's resistance Answer: Write it, process it first, do it with partner who knows what you're up to Do it in community because communal experience really accelerates it [00:19:40] The 12 Month Program Structure Seven days together quarterly in person in cozy Airbnb (not conference settings) First three days: story saving work (not therapy but sort of feels like it) One day: go to spot together or do something fun in nature, let everything recalibrate Three days of work: goal is to get first chapter at first retreat [00:22:40] It's Always About Relationships When trying something new, doesn't want to do all the tasks "Where are the people? It's all for me. It's always been about relationship, not the actual to-dos" First person who changed everything: Ursula Lameris, sales coach [00:24:40] Learning From an Extrovert Connection was so natural to Ursula but not natural to Amanda (introvert) Put it in the book, had fun for five or six years in same neighborhood Made game out of networking: "Today I'm gonna sell this many contracts for you" Both experienced each other's work, just created relationships [00:25:20] Making Networking a Game Would go to networking meetings and talk each other up "Oh you need to talk to Amanda. Oh you need to talk to Ursula" That's how they both built really amazing businesses in a few years [00:28:00] Ten Years of Saving Self-Published Authors After 10 years helping individuals self-publish, people started looking at hybrid publishing Needed imprint for their position, status, industry Would try different hybrid houses, then call Amanda to come save it Couldn't believe what she was seeing [00:29:20] The 19-Year-Old's Solution Son said: "Mom, how about we just build a publishing house? We'll just figure it out" He was 19 years old Always been an entrepreneur, was hustling people at garage sale at age three or four Amanda: "I don't really have time, but if you want to, I'll partner with you" [00:30:00] Saved By Story Publishing House Son is business partner, youngest sister is creative designer Boutique hybrid publishing house A lot of people who do writing process eventually move through publishing Do education and empowerment for people ready to publish without giving all power away [00:30:40] The Bigger Impact Vision More of what's already doing, bigger impact on personal side Narrative resilience work that happens when people write in community Gets to end of retreats thinking "There are only few people in this room" Dream: expanding transformational work through personal brand, speaking, facilitation [00:31:00] Narrative Tools for Every Arena Take narrative tools and skills and infuse them into places that need them Education system, mental health space Pretty much every other arena could benefit from narrative resilience right now [00:32:00] Free Content at Foreshadows Website: savedbystory.house Forward slash foreshadows has whole bunch of free content Helps anyone at any stage from "I have an idea" to "Am I on right track for publishing?" [00:33:00] Tell Your Family How to Support Figure out how to make people around you feel safer while on amazing adventure Most family members really want to support, but if we don't tell them how, they don't know how   KEY QUOTES "We're made to belong. We're made to be in a community. And the way that we do that and have for millennia is by figuring out how to be reciprocal." - Amanda Johnson "Most of our family members really want to support, but if we don't tell them how, then they don't know how." - Amanda Johnson CONNECT WITH AMANDA JOHNSON 

What if losing half your business in a betrayal led you to make $120,000 in 60 days on a platform everyone ignores? In this episode, Anthony Simonie shares how being adopted by his grandparents literally saved his life and how that experience shaped everything from his approach to entrepreneurship to his decision to adopt both of his children, Miles and Daisy. After his nine-month-old son Miles stopped breathing and Anthony performed CPR not knowing if his son would survive, his business partner exploited that crisis by drawing up a fraudulent amendment that gave away half of Anthony's half of their seven-figure business. That betrayal could have crushed him. Instead, it led Anthony to discover LinkedIn's hidden goldmine. Within 30 days, he generated $60,000 in new business plus $60,000 in recurring revenue, for $120,000 total. He did it again the next 30 days with the exact same numbers, proving it wasn't luck but a duplicatable system. Now, having helped over 1,000 clients leverage LinkedIn to build databases of affluent prospects, land strategic partnerships, and get booked on podcasts, Anthony has turned relationship-building into a science. Anthony reveals why his five-foot-tall Italian grandmother's persistence shaped his entrepreneurial DNA, how his daughter Daisy (his niece whose parents both committed suicide within five months) is now thriving, and why Tim Tebow's words hit him like a lightning bolt: "You can be successful without having any significance."   [00:05:40] Raised by Grandparents, Saved by Adoption Adopted and raised by grandparents, literally saved Anthony's life Grandparents stepped up when they should've been enjoying retirement Both of Anthony's kids (Miles and Daisy) are adopted because adoption was a blessing for him Five-foot-tall Italian grandmother wouldn't let anyone leave without a meal, haircut, and promise to go to church [00:07:00] Learning Entrepreneurship at Craft Shows Grandmother was an artist making ceramic and wooden crafts Anthony helped her set up and break down at craft shows Watched her overcome challenges as they came She taught persistence and perseverance that stuck with him forever [00:08:00] The Pharmaceutical Sales Path Finished high school, walked onto college baseball team (paid for school for couple years) Became pharmaceutical sales rep like his stepdad, seemed like helping people Got job at Schering-Plough, did well but wasn't happy Started learning pharmaceutical goods may not be so good for us [00:10:00] The Foreclosure Cleaning Business Buddy said "We've got this little side business cleaning out foreclosed properties" At first thought "I don't think I wanna clean houses" Had moment of "I'm just done" with corporate job Started business, expanded from Missouri to Los Angeles (brother in charge), then Phoenix [00:11:00] The Dan Kennedy Event That Changed Everything Same friend took him to Dan Kennedy marketing event in St. Louis Eyes opened watching people make money helping others understand their business Friend said "Why don't we do it together, you be the face" Anthony had already turned cleaning business into real business with systems [00:11:40] First Year: Over $1 Million Partnered up, grew business in first year to over $1 million Had to learn everything: copywriting, email, webinars, buying traffic At first loved the money, but then started receiving messages from people he was helping "You saved my marriage. You helped save me from losing my home." Hundreds of them. [00:12:40] When It Became More Than Money First time felt complete: "This is so much more than just the money" People appreciate you, like you for what you're doing to help them Attorneys, physicians, everyone was losing businesses during that time Learning how to make income by doing something in large demand that people didn't know existed [00:15:40] Losing Everything Was the beginning of everything falling apart Used to a certain quality of life, now worried about son and business blows up Lost interest in the business, couldn't do it anymore, business died Partner had franchised business to double dip, his franchise failed too [00:17:20] LinkedIn Saves the Day Anthony: "LinkedIn? Are you trying to help me get a job? I'm not looking for a job" Took skills he'd learned and applied them to LinkedIn platform Created an offer, first 30 days sold $60,000 plus $60,000 recurring = $120,000 Thought maybe he got lucky, then did exact same thing next 30 days with same numbers [00:18:20] Helping Over 1,000 Clients Realized he had something duplicatable Close circle started asking what he was doing, started sharing it Years later, helped over 1,000 clients leverage LinkedIn Building databases of affluent prospects, referral partnerships, getting on podcasts, strategic partnerships [00:19:00] Every Successful Entrepreneur Has Been Crushed You're gonna have ups and downs in business If you have fortitude to stick it out and learn from challenges, you grow When you talk to people at measurable level of success, all have been through steep challenges Sometimes way worse than Anthony's experiences [00:23:40] Not An Agency, Highly Customized Not a one-size-fits-all agency approach Very highly customized and specific strategy depending on who you are, what you offer, who you serve Usually at capacity, takes on one or two new clients per month Recently launched "done with you" program to teach people how to run the play themselves [00:28:40] The God Thing Anthony and Jill were thinking about adopting again Friend sent invitation to dinner for adoption agency Right during that timeframe, all the tragedy happened with Daisy "It was a God thing... put on our hearts for specific reason: to step up and take care of Daisy" [00:30:40] Tim Tebow's Words: Success Without Significance At mastermind, got to watch Tim Tebow speak One thing stuck: "You can be successful without having any significance" Never heard it phrased that way before If all entrepreneurs adopt that mindset, we can change the world better than any politician [00:32:20] Starting the Real Estate Fund Works with lots of real estate syndicators and operators Asked: How else can I serve these people outside of helping them make more money? Started real estate fund to protect capital and provide hedge against inflation Helps people grow their capital while protecting it [00:35:00] Nobody Is Self-Made Doesn't believe anybody's self-made When people say "I'm a self-made millionaire" they're not being honest Even just your mother deciding to go through with birth, that person helped you There's abundance of opportunity, money, success out there for everybody [00:40:20] Remember Why You Do What You Do We live in world that's so distracted, separated, at odds Take time every day and remember why you do what you do, who you do it for What's the purpose, what's the passion, how does it impact world around us Entrepreneurs can change the world, but it starts under our own roof [00:42:40] Turn Off The News for 30 Days Challenge: Turn off news for next 30 days Watch how your mind clears up and you start focusing on things that matter You'll become more productive, have more pep in your step If you're business owner, you need that clarity to continue with what you're compelled to do   KEY QUOTES "You can be successful without having any significance." - Tim Tebow (as shared by Anthony) "I don't believe anybody's self-made. Even just your mother deciding to go through with the birth, that person helped you." - Anthony Simonie "We as entrepreneurs can change the world in my humble opinion, but that starts with us. It starts under our own roof." - Anthony Simonie CONNECT WITH ANTHONY SIMONIE 

What if Forrest Gump taught a six-year-old how to never worry about money again? In this episode, Jerremy Newsome shares how watching Forrest Gump at age six sparked a question that changed everything: "What does it mean to not have to worry about money?" That question led him to pick blackberries door-to-door, earning $1,500 that his dad matched to buy $3,000 worth of Apple stock in 1995. While those shares would be worth $39 million today, Jerremy sold them in 2000 for $12,000. That early win, and the lesson from selling too soon, ignited a 20-year journey mastering liquid markets. Now Jerremy helps people understand stocks, options, crypto, and other "liquid markets" using what he calls "second grade math" to achieve financial freedom. He shares the story of Jordan, a police officer making $80,000 a year who recently made more in one month trading than his entire monthly salary. But Jerremy's impact goes beyond teaching trading. When he stood up at a Vail event and matched $40,000 in donations for blind and special needs children learning to ski, he didn't just change those kids' lives. He turned a skeptic named Preston Brown into a lifelong friend and business ally. Jerremy reveals how meeting his wife at a Tony Robbins event, connecting with business partner Brittany Turner through Instagram, and operating from abundance instead of scarcity has created a life where impact matters more than income.   [00:04:00] The Forrest Gump Moment That Changed Everything At age six, watching Forrest Gump with his dad and brother when Lieutenant Dan "invested in some kind of fruit company" Growing up poor, hearing someone didn't have to worry about money was a huge paradigm shift Asked his dad what investing meant, learned about Apple as a computer company Dad gave every excuse: "I don't have time, I'm not smart enough, I don't have enough money" [00:05:20] Picking Blackberries to Buy Apple Stock Dad said "If you bring me some money, I'll match it dollar for dollar" Jerremy's favorite quote: "It's not your resources, it's your resourcefulness" Picked blackberries, sold them door-to-door for a dollar a bag in summer 1995 Made $1,500, dad borrowed from uncle to match, bought $3,000 of Apple at exact bottom [00:06:00] The $39 Million Lesson Those shares today worth about $39 million Sold them in 2000 for $12,000 when family moved from Georgia to Florida Dad called it "the best investment, the best trade I'd ever make my whole life" Got $12,000 at age 12 and has been studying markets "like a heathen" ever since [00:07:00] From History Teacher Dream to Teaching Financial Freedom Wanted to be history teacher since fourth grade, teacher said "You don't get paid any money" Has blend of entrepreneur spirit and teacher spirit Loves learning unique things and teaching them simply because that's how he learns Teaches "liquid markets": stocks, options, crypto, futures, bonds, gold, silver, commodities [00:08:00] Making Complex Things Simple What motivates him: helping people understand complex subjects and explaining them easily When someone learns something and it clicks, that energizes him more than anything Teaches "second grade math to how to become financially free as quick as possible" If you have access to internet, you have access to income once you have knowledge and tools [00:09:20] Jordan the Police Officer's Transformation Started working with Jordan 7-8 months ago, police officer in Northern California making $80,000/year Jordan said police officers are massively undertrained, don't have equipment/knowledge for wide array of situations Last month Jordan made more trading than his monthly salary Made $12,000 net on $60,000 account (20% return in one month) [00:11:20] From Scarcity to Abundance Jordan paying off debts, taking wife and kids to Disneyland Using money to feel abundant, taste prosperity, be in place of creation versus fear Most people find themselves in scarcity when it comes to money The opportunity to create income exists every single day in the stock market [00:12:20] Giving People Choices and Freedom Jordan now realizes he has choices and options For entrepreneurs doing $500K-$3M, you're in the swamp: making enough to do well but not enough to be free Mindset shift from "I have to work to make money" to "I get to create to attract more value" Making (grinding energy) versus attracting/receiving/creating (different energy) [00:15:40] Two People Who Changed Everything His wife: Met at Tony Robbins UPW event November 4, 2012 in Orlando Brittany Turner: Reached out via Instagram in February 2020 through mutual connection Both have helped him heal, expand, and step into greatness [00:16:00] Meeting His Wife at Tony Robbins Boss said "you really should go to this Tony Robbins event called UPW" Met his wife at Unleash the Power Within in Orlando Took 12 years to figure it out, got married about five years ago Have three boys together, she's helped him expand and step into greatness [00:17:00] The Brittany Turner Partnership Needed real estate specialist for his Money Grows on Trees conference Sent Brittany Turner video via Instagram DM in February 2020 In coming-up-on-six-year relationship: organizations built, purpose stepped into, islands, investments, opportunities Alignment with someone who brings joy, understanding, and awareness of more into your life [00:18:40] The Web of Million Dollar Connections Brittany introduced him to Ané Gupta (relationship specialist) Ané introduced him to Chuck Hogan who ran Your Best Life mastermind Chuck's mastermind had three main members: Chuck, Dean, and Preston Brown Got asked to speak at event in Vail, Colorado in February 2022 [00:19:40] The $80,000 Donation That Changed a Relationship Organization helping blind and special needs kids learn to ski said "$5,000 would change our whole life" Preston Brown admittedly didn't like Jerremy before they met Jerremy stood up and said "I will match every donation given today" Room raised over $40,000, Jerremy matched $40,000 for $80,000 total to Little Champions [00:21:00] From Skeptic to Lifelong Friend Preston came up afterwards, gave hug: "You are my guy, that reminded me of Christ" "Between me and you, we'll be friends for life" Preston has given so much business, referrals, opportunities since Coming to Vegas this weekend with 40 entrepreneurs for "radical business" [00:23:00] When Making More Money Ceases to Inspire Kevin: Once family needs are met, making more money ceased to inspire him Having conversations with entrepreneurs, making introductions that lead to big deals, that's what inspires It's not the revenue, it's the impact Les Brown taught Jerremy: "Your income is directly tied to your impact" [00:25:40] Connecting with Jerremy Name spelled J-E-R-R-E-M-Y (stands for Jerry + Me, his dad's name was Jerry) Newsome: N-E-W-S-O-M-E.com All social media platforms, look for blue verified check mark Broke to Woke podcast with Brittany Turner (six seasons, 24 episodes, season seven coming) [00:27:00] Ask For More Awareness of what's possible comes by asking for more It's okay to want more so you can offer more, provide more, give more God is the God of infinite, receiving more doesn't take away from anyone else "Those who knock, door is opened" - ask for more and change your awareness   KEY QUOTES "It's not your resources, it's your resourcefulness. That's probably what entrepreneurship is." - Jerremy Newsome "If you have access to the internet, you have access to income once you have the knowledge and the skills and the tools." - Jerremy Newsome "The secret to living is giving, and one of the best things to give is the gift of a relationship." - Jerremy Newsome "Your income is directly tied to your impact. You wanna make more, figure out a way to impact more." - Les Brown (quoted by Jerremy) CONNECT WITH JERREMY NEWSOME 

What if an entire family's trajectory changed in a single moment of tragedy? In this episode, Stephen Woessner, founder of Predictive ROI, shares the remarkable story of his grandfather Peter Marus, who arrived in America in 1920 with just $10 and couldn't speak English. After his father was murdered on the streets of Istanbul for being Greek, eight-year-old Peter became the family breadwinner, dropping out of third grade to support his mother and siblings. That singular tragedy transformed his family's DNA, creating a lineage of entrepreneurs that spans four generations. Stephen reveals how his grandfather's business philosophy during the Great Depression, giving away more soup than he sold because "Jesus might look like anyone," shaped his own approach to business and giving. Now running an agency that serves other agencies, Stephen and his wife have quietly paid thousands in tuition for struggling families, honoring his grandfather's sacrifice while pursuing an audacious vision: building 100 churches and funding college educations for as many kids as possible. Stephen explains why education is the great equalizer, how one moment of violence created an entire family of business owners, and what it means to honor the risks your ancestors took by working late into the night when you'd rather sleep.   [00:03:00] The Corey Morris Connection Kevin and Stephen connected through Corey Morris and felt like they'd known each other for years Stephen: "When Corey introduces me to somebody, there's the transference of trust and credibility" The power of context in introductions versus generic "you're both great guys" connections Trust transfers through quality, contextual connections [00:06:40] Family First, Business Second Married 32 years to Christine, daughter Caitlyn is freshman in college Stephen and Christine were married 14 years before having Caitlyn On "empty nesting": "I think we're gonna be okay" spending time together again [00:07:00] Building Predictive ROI Started Predictive ROI in 2009 with team of 26 who genuinely care about each other Uses the "forbidden love word" inside the business Agency supports other agencies with business development and sales operations Team travels together, hangs out together, laughs and cries together [00:09:20] The Unlikely Path to Agency Life Grew up in Canton, Ohio surrounded by family restaurant businesses Graduated 272 out of 300 in high school ("I don't think you got your percentiles right, Mom") Joined Air Force in junior year, spent four years in nuclear missile silos in South Dakota Learned power of troubleshooting and system design [00:11:00] Breaking Into Advertising Working at Red Lobster, needed marketing experience to become manager Called agencies in Rapid City offering to work for free, most said he was "greener than green" Robert Sharp and Associates said yes to three-month unpaid internship Competed against two other interns: "There's no way I'm not winning this" [00:16:00] What Inspires the Work Changing trajectory from famine to feast in business development Replacing desperation with hope, confidence, and structure Creating dependable sales pipelines that open new possibilities for agencies [00:17:40] The Everest Mission Business goals mapped on office wall, but real "why" is building 100 churches Put as many kids through college as possible Stephen: "Education is a great equalizer" Business profits fund impact, not the other way around [00:20:40] Peter Marus: The Man Who Changed Everything Born 1902 in Istanbul, Turkey Father murdered on streets when Peter was eight for being Greek Dropped out of third grade to become breadwinner for mom and two younger siblings At 18 (1920), came to United States with $10 and no English [00:22:20] Building The Ideal Restaurant Came to Canton, Ohio, started washing dishes and cutting vegetables Traded skills for money, saved everything Six years later, opened The Ideal restaurant in downtown Canton Got married, had four kids [00:23:20] The Depression Philosophy Gave away more soup than he sold during the Great Depression Peter's response when asked why: "I know Jesus is coming back someday. I don't know what he's gonna look like, so I'm just gonna be kind to everybody" Entire business plan: "If you take care of your customer, they will take care of you" And he was right [00:24:20] Papu: 14 Years of Living Proof Stephen called him "Papu" (Greek for grandfather), passed away when Stephen was 14 For 14 years, showed Stephen what it meant to be good person, take care of people, sacrifice for family Stephen: "I didn't hear somebody just talk about it. I saw somebody live it" [00:25:40] When DNA Changes in a Moment Stephen believes when great-grandfather was murdered, family DNA changed to entrepreneurs Peter's four kids all became restaurateurs All 10 grandkids became business owners 100% of family downstream became entrepreneurs [00:28:00] From Poor Student to Education Advocate Peter had only third grade education but was incredibly intelligent Never stopped reading and consuming knowledge with fervor for education Stephen got four college degrees through Air Force Now wants to put as many kids through college as possible in Peter's honor [00:29:20] Becoming a Partner in Three Years Told agency president: "I want to be an owner in this business" Set five-year goal, worked hard, badgered the president Accomplished it in three years instead [00:30:00] The Late Night Work Ethic Peter's photo framed on Stephen's office wall as daily reminder At night when tired: "I think I can send one more email" Has privilege to do what he does because Peter took all those risks Grandmother's struggle from Crete to America was horrendous too [00:32:00] The $5,186 Check That Changed Lives First time Stephen has shared this story publicly 15 years ago at back-to-school night, wondered if families were struggling with tuition Principal Bob said family's business failing, owed $5,186, had to pull kids out Stephen brought check that day, one condition: complete anonymity Received anonymous thank you letter, Stephen and Christine crying in kitchen: "We need to do more of that" [00:36:00] The Gift of Receiving Kevin's realization 13 years ago: not receiving deprives others of joy of giving Family foundation gives kids debit card at Christmas to find struggling families Kids shop for gifts/food, deliver everything themselves Oldest daughter: "Dad, I wish I could just do that all the time" [00:38:40] Blossom Garden Orphanage Kevin's family supports Jamaica orphanage for years, takes trips to spend time with kids Kids call it "white people day" when they visit First trip son Brock was 3, only white kid in photo, completely oblivious Now take kids' school friends, parents amazed when they return with new perspective   KEY QUOTES "You know, I know that Jesus is coming back someday. I don't know what he's gonna look like, so I'm just gonna be kind to everybody." - Peter Marus (Stephen's grandfather) "If you take care of your customer, they will take care of you." - Peter Marus "In that moment that my great-grandfather was murdered in Istanbul, everything downstream changed. We became entrepreneurs." - Stephen Woessner "Education is a great equalizer. If you want to change somebody's trajectory, give them education." - Stephen Woessner CONNECT WITH STEPHEN WOESSNER 

What if a stranger inviting you to build a boat halfway around the world led to meeting your wife, building a family, and discovering your life's work? In this episode, John Caprani, video advertising specialist for home service businesses, shares his unconventional journey from Ireland to West Africa to Fiji and finally to Spain. After meeting a Swiss sailor named Hans in 2011, John packed everything for a one-way ticket to Senegal to build a 72-foot wooden sailboat. That adventure led to a job in Fiji doing construction project management, where he met his wife within six weeks, married her six months later, and became a father 10 months after that. Six years later, with two kids under three and a deep dissatisfaction with his corporate job, John made the leap into entrepreneurship at age 37. Now specializing in video advertising for home service businesses generating $1M to $5M annually, he's helped clients book $800K in 30 days and $95K in 40 days using a simple approach that most marketers overlook: putting the founder on camera and building trust through personality instead of just showcasing work. John reveals why trust matters more than perfect craftsmanship when entering someone's home, why employees can never sell as effectively as founders on video, and how narrowing his focus to home services transformed his results.   [00:02:20] The Technology That Makes the World Smaller John is in Valencia, Spain (nine hours ahead of Seattle) Zoom and modern technology make global conversations seamless Kevin used to commercial fish in Alaska before technology like this existed The ability to work from anywhere is now a reality [00:04:00] What John Does: Video Advertising for Home Service Businesses Spent years as a copywriter but found it hard to sell to uneducated buyers Shifted 18 months ago to focus specifically on home service businesses Serves businesses doing upgrades: walls, paving, air conditioning, barns, storage units, renovations, landscaping Specializes in video advertising on Facebook and Instagram only Works with businesses selling high-ticket services for the home [00:06:33] Why Home Services Is Different: Trust Over Technique Local business marketing is not as sophisticated as e-commerce or online coaching Most local businesses aren't doing video marketing at all Those who do focus on work being done (pictures of installations) which doesn't solve the real problem John's approach: focus on personality and the business owner themselves [00:08:38] Kevin's Parallel Journey: Carpet Cleaning in 1995 Started carpet cleaning and restoration business in 1995 Blew through $300K in first year following traditional industry approach Advertised "two rooms and a hallway for $59.95" (then dropped to $49.95) Key lesson: trust is huge when you're in people's homes while they're at work [00:13:04] John's Background: From Father's Business to Sailing Father was entrepreneur in publishing, graphic arts, and printing Tried entrepreneurial things as teenager but they didn't work out Spent twenties traveling, went to UK, learned woodworking skills Learned artisan craft skills, made lovely things, lived hand to mouth existence Everything changed when he got married, needed more stability [00:14:20] The Construction Years: Getting Promoted Out of Success Friend offered job in construction industry doing project management for holiday resort renovations Was good at project management, actually being on site Got promoted out of job he was good at into job he sucked at: marketing and sales Had to learn copywriting and marketing to sell to traveling business clients [00:15:40] The Big Decision: Quit at 37 with Two Kids Under Three In 2018, didn't want to stay in construction, wanted freedom Knew online meant he could travel, move countries, income unaffected Was 37, married, two kids under age three Had enough money to live for maybe three or four months Quit job in September 2018, got first couple of clients, took it from there [00:20:16] The Jockey and the Horse John likens his role to being a jockey "The horse you ride on is most of the race won" Not magic on his part, certain factors need to be in place When it works, it really works [00:22:00] The Sweet Spot: Five to Fifteen Person Teams Prefers smaller businesses: 5-15 people team Direct relationship with founder No layers of bureaucracy Say "Can you help me?" John says "Yes," they say "Okay, let 'er rip" Bigger businesses (20-30+ people) have marketing team in-house, bureaucracy, people covering their own ass [00:23:08] The Non-Negotiable: A Good Assistant on the Phone John needs business owner to have assistant who is good on the phone When leads come in, owner should NOT be doing screening or appointment setting Owners are often best salesperson but definitely not best appointment setter They start to hate it because it's beneath them, then they hate John [00:27:00] The One-Way Ticket to Senegal Hans said: "I'm not gonna buy your ticket there, but I'll pay for everything after. I want to see that you get there on your own steam" "Show up at Dakar Airport in Senegal on such and such day, I'll be there to pick you up" John packed up, sold his vehicle, got one-way ticket to Dakar Worked together for 10-11 months building the boat, launched it, did sailing together [00:27:47] The German Guy in Fiji Hans was going to sail elsewhere, John didn't want to go back to Ireland Asked Hans: "Do you know anybody else who might have something interesting?" Hans: "I know this German guy in Fiji doing work on holiday resorts" German guy called a few days later: "I need a man. Can you be here in two weeks?" John: "Would you buy me a ticket?" German: "I'll send you a ticket today" Packed up from London, jumped on plane to Fiji [00:29:40] From Project Management to Sales to Entrepreneurship Started doing dusty construction project management on site in Fiji Got better at job, got promoted to sales Had to learn about selling Led to 2018 decision: "I have these sales skills, I know copywriting, I want out of construction, let's quit and go do my own thing" [00:30:06] The Big Leap: Married, Kids, No Steady Paycheck Pretty big step going from steady paycheck to own thing Mentally tough, but felt like it was now or never at 37 with two kids under three "Gun to the head moment, and gun to the head is a great motivator" Family helped: gave them place to stay while getting on feet in Ireland Wife was rock solid: "I don't understand why you're doing this, but if you want to do it, I'll support you" [00:32:20] The Turning Point: Everything's Actually Okay About 18 months after quitting, I was constantly worried: "Is this gonna fail?" Looked at himself: "Everything's okay. We've still got a place to live. Kids still have shoes. We have food. Nobody's going hungry" "This might not be working perfectly, but it's working. I've covered the basics. We're surviving and I can grow from here" [00:33:20] Five Years Later: Life in Valencia, Spain In 2024, decided time to move on from Ireland Glad to spend those years there, reconnect with family Wanted kids to know his family, wanted wife to become Irish citizen Sold up everything, packed into two cars, road tripped from Ireland to Spain Life has become so much better since moving to Spain [00:36:00] The Integration Life: No Rules About When You Work Don't have work-life balance with entrepreneurship Do get work-life integration if you're smart about it Bring everything in, don't live by rules about finishing work at certain time or can't do anything on weekends Do what you can when you can, find time to get everything in [00:39:38] Where to Find John Website: firedigitalmarketing.com (short video explaining what he does and how it helps) Facebook: John Caprani (most active there) Can get sense of who he is, his opinions and thoughts before reaching out Best place to connect [00:42:40] Repetition Over Perfection First time around won't be perfect, won't be what you feel is perfect in your mind Kevin's coach had him make 24-25 videos in one day walking through a process Every time got more comfortable, didn't have to think about what to say, got the flow [00:44:06] What Really Works: Belief and Confidence All the fancy copywriting, hacks, tactics are good, valuable, useful But what really works better than anything else: somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves That'll convert better than anything   KEY QUOTES "If you are an eight out of 10 at your work, but you're like 10 out of 10 in terms of a human being and being trustworthy, people would care about that more than being a 10 out of 10 in the work and maybe being a five out of 10 in the character side of things." - John Caprani "Gun to the head is a great motivator. It'll get you to do shit you wouldn't normally do." - John Caprani "You don't get work-life balance [as an entrepreneur], but you do get work-life integration if you're smart about it." - John Caprani "There's nobody but the founder of a business who really has the conviction and has enough on the line to actually sell it as effectively on video." - John Caprani "All the different fancy copywriting and hacks and tactics, in the end, what really works better than anything else is somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves. That'll convert better than anything." - John Caprani CONNECT WITH JOHN CAPRANI 

What if the most important person in your life handed you their most powerful peer group and said "yes you can" when you were certain you couldn't? In this episode, Natalie Michael, executive coach and CEO Forum Chair with 20 years of experience guiding leaders through transitions, shares her journey from psychology studies and consciousness research to becoming the person who holds space for some of the most powerful entrepreneurs in Canada. After riding the .com boom from 2 million to 30 million in four years with no outside venture capital, Natalie learned what she loved and what exhausted her about the entrepreneurial journey, forcing her to dig deep into who she was and what she wanted. From her first CEO client (who shocked her by saying yes) to the moment the founder of McKay Forums handed her a peer group filled with billion-dollar CEOs and told her "yes you can" when she was certain she couldn't, Natalie's story reveals the power of someone seeing your potential before you do. Through her work as a Tiger 21 chair and coaching founders through exits worth hundreds of millions, she's witnessed that the people who get there with their spirit intact aren't driven by money, but by contribution, challenge, and a deep understanding of what really matters. Natalie shares why "the money is the outcome" but the journey is everything, how one entrepreneur taught her that "home is where my wife is," and why she's learning to build a life she never wants to retire from through silent weekends and putting her needs on the calendar first.   [00:04:35] The Journey: From Psychology to CEO Transitions Studied psychology with deep interest in consciousness studies, mindset, brain, spirituality, and how they all intersect Through that process realized what she loved and what exhausted her about entrepreneurial journey Had to do soul searching to figure out what was more important than her options plan A lot of the journey exhausted her Had to dig deep: who am I, what do I want, how do I want this journey to look for me? [00:07:20] Witnessing the Journey: Money as Outcome, Not Driver Has ringside seat to the journey through clients she serves Number of clients have had hundred million dollar exits People who get there with their spirit intact are driven not by money They're driven by sense of contribution and challenge, and often a restlessness Didn't understand this earlier but witnesses it the higher up she gets in entrepreneurial space [00:08:18] What Natalie Does: Supporting CEOs at Crossroads Supports founders and CEOs to figure out what's next Looking at how the CEO role does or doesn't fit into that How founder or CEO needs to support that process All the nuances, politics, and emotions that go along with it [00:09:21] The Arc: Moving Up, In, or Out of the C-Suite Works with people trying to become a CEO (moving up into C-suite) With demographics right now, a lot of people thinking about moving out One client was so stressed about his business he sold off locations in almost a fire sale because he couldn't deal anymore [00:11:04] Results That Matter: The Art of Each Client Doesn't associate results with being proud More about the acknowledgment the client provides as they move through the experience When you get to this level with people, you're in each other's circle of trust Like a deep friend from high school: might not talk every day, but when you do, you pick up where you left off [00:12:43] The Timeline: 15 Years of Building This Work Doing this work in various forms for about 15 years Real focus and commitment to CEO transitions as the focus and CEO Next Chapter has been about seven years [00:15:52] The Relationship That Changed Everything: "Yes You Can" Looked at the bios: one running a billion dollar company, one running huge Crown Corporation, one was top entrepreneur "I cannot do this. No way" Founder looked at her and said: "Yes you can. No one's better than you. I totally have faith. You can do this" Combined founder's faith in her with her own personal development around holding space for powerful people That's what her whole career's been built on [00:19:58] The Entrepreneur Who Taught Her What Matters Through that experience, been exposed to people who continue to inspire her Fortunate in her forum to have a man who on paper is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in Canada Built multiple businesses, highly successful, has a foundation So rooted in his family and his love of a challenge as being his driver When you see someone like that behave like that, it gives you permission to put that stuff first [00:24:45] The Tiger 21 Reality: Life After the Exit Work as Tiger 21 chair is "life after the exit or when you're thinking about what's next" A lot of people think those conversations are about squeezing a percentage point on investments Rented a house on an island by herself, meditated, walked in the woods every day, just found herself again Said it was really hard because she was so addicted to feeding her restless energy with action Created a clearing that allowed her to step into what was new from a new identity [00:31:15] Building a Life You Never Want to Retire From "That's kind of the thing that I hold for my clients. It's like, how do you build a life you never wanna retire from?" Reading a book called The 100 Year Life Purpose, relationships, money, and health are all catalysts for being fulfilled For Natalie: if she puts her stuff in her calendar first (things she needs to nourish herself and be healthy and engaged), that goes in first [00:33:39] Silence Weekends: Decompressing the Chatter Started playing with silence weekends, new thing in last couple years Already planning for next one Three days where she goes into the forest, has a bit of a back country experience, does it by herself Very important part of how she wants to serve and lead in the world [00:35:24] Where to Find Natalie & CEO Next Chapter Website: ceonextchapter.com (very easy to remember) "That's essentially the essence of what we do in the world" Thanks Kevin for doing his work in the world and inviting her Inspiring to her, both the question he asked and the choice he made in his own work to focus on relationships   KEY QUOTES "I had value. I add value, I'm adding value, I'm adding value. Listen to add value, listen to add value." - Natalie Michael's mantra "The money is the outcome... but oftentimes the people who get there with their spirit intact, they're driven not by the money. They're driven by a sense of contribution and challenge, and often restlessness." - Natalie Michael "Each time I get a client, it's like a little piece of art. It's my art. And so it's more about the relationship we have as we go through it. That is what is deeply gratifying." - Natalie Michael CONNECT WITH NATALIE MICHAEL 

What if everything you built (the money, the status, the business success) left your heart completely empty? In this episode, Dane Maxwell, serial entrepreneur and founder of The Foundation and Paperless Pipeline, shares his raw journey from "3D success" to discovering his sacred calling. After launching more than a dozen businesses and achieving what most would call the dream (money, freedom, recognition), Dane found himself with a hollow heart. Through a prophetic message in a church, answered prayers, and divine signs, he reclaimed the gift he'd buried 10 years earlier: his voice and music. From training 2,000 students (including two billionaires) to singing improvised songs that help people take their most difficult actions, Dane's story reveals the difference between performing for validation and surrendering to become "a flute that the divine blows its breath through." He discusses spiritual hierarchy, the power of slowing down, and why being wanted by God matters more than being wanted by the world. Dane reveals why music is sacred (not about fame or sex), how four signs in one week confirmed his calling, and what it means to approach life from the inside out instead of outside in.   [00:02:28] Meeting at Destiny Fest: A Three-Hour Conversation That Wouldn't End Kevin and Dane met at Giovanni Marsico's Destiny Fest in Toronto Sat at dinner table for hours after everyone else left Dane performed an entirely improvised musical piece on stage for 1,400 people Kevin's been connected to Gio for 14 years, watching the vision grow from a dinner conversation to nearly 2,000 attendees [00:05:45] The Philosophy: Greatness in the Moment Most people rehearse before presenting to 1,400 people Dane chose to "dangle by a string," the string of present-moment creation Believes the next evolution of events is not rehearsed but "moment oriented" "I wanted to be present with people instead of rehearsed" Magic happens when people are willing to risk unpreparedness [00:07:54] Current Mission: Music for Difficult Actions Creating songs that help people take the most difficult actions in their lives Actions that would dramatically improve their lives in 90 days Examples: losing weight, starting a business, going to the gym, writing a book, picking up a new hobby Not telling people what to think, singing pure possibility and inspiration into their hearts [00:13:40] The Problem: 3D Success with an Empty Heart Had all the external markers of success: money, time freedom, status, women "3D success," everything in the physical, three-dimensional world But his heart felt completely empty Realized he'd been "distracted by success" as a safe, socially acceptable way to avoid vulnerability Business felt safe; true connection and music felt vulnerable [00:15:06] How Men Are Stripped of Their Power "You make them believe that the outside world can make them happy" Make men believe worth is achievement, status, attention The world is designed to engineer us to strip us of our power Jesus had a donkey and white robe but was "beaming with power" External trappings (beautiful women, cars, homes) are an illusion when coming from a dissociated place [00:19:00] The Spiritual Hierarchy and Heart Pursuit Jesus's heart field could reportedly be felt from two miles away (average is 15-50 feet) Dane was raised Christian with teaching that "the heart is deceitful and wicked" Felt he couldn't trust his own heart, so wrapped it in external things Realized the teaching was "not being communicated or translated correctly" Started approaching life inside out instead of outside in [00:21:06] The Turning Point: Slowing Down and Hearing "Sing" Heart kept feeling empty despite business success Slowed down and heard the word "sing" Initial resistance: "I'm a six-foot-one 42-year-old white male, I don't look like a singer" Thought he was "such a broken man" that performing for others was the best he could do Admits: "When I say I don't know what I'm doing, it's very honest" [00:24:00] Teaching Wealth: The Karma of Money Taught 2,000 students how to build wealth Two billionaire students, one valued at $1 billion, one student exited for $500 million Half of students did very well, other half probably shouldn't have bought the program Friend Danielle LaPorte said people have their own "karma to sort out with money" [00:24:30] The Church Moment: Getting His Gift Back Age 31, attending Bethel Church (Holy Spirit-led church) Pastor stops mid-worship, points directly at him: "Son, I just got a message from God" "He didn't trust you with a gift, so he took it away. But he trusts you with it now, so he gave it back" Dane's hand went to his throat, realized it was his singing voice Had trained intensely for his first open mic at age 21 [00:28:20] Eleven Years of Fear and Teetering 11 years since that church moment Released four albums, done shows, played for 1,400 people But always "teetering around it" Wasn't sure if he was authentically interested or just trying to impress people Admitted fear: maybe doing it "to get laid" (common male conditioning around music) [00:29:00] The Week of Signs: Music Is Sacred Got hypnotherapy session to bring more freedom to singing During hypnosis, saw subconscious belief: "I'm just trying to do this to get laid" Sign #1: Massage therapist's hat said "MUSIC IS SACRED" Sign #2: Someone wrote "I hope you're doing music" Sign #3: On a business Zoom, someone private messaged "Hey, how's music?" Sign #4: Woman he used to date said "Obviously you're supposed to be doing music" [00:36:29] Rumi and Becoming a Flute for the Divine Quotes Rumi: "I am but a flute that the Christ blows its breath through" In spiritual hierarchy, highest level before God is Lord Christ Jesus was "Christed," fully surrendered mediator for Lord Christ Got off stage thinking "nobody got any flavor of me, I blew it" Heard hysterical laughter (maybe angels): "You were just an instrument for love" [00:39:40] The Mecca of Bliss Bob Dylan and Michael Jordan have "an extra sense of something else" That's spiritual connection coming through their work "That's the mecca, the mecca of bliss" Dissolve all sense of self, merge with Christ, allow God's love to flow through [00:40:20] Approaching Life Inside Out Doesn't have hot girlfriend, sexy car, amazing mansion anymore "Am I way happier than when I had any of that stuff? Does any of me want any of that stuff? Maybe if it's aligned" Not an ache because approaching life from inside out If something feels "authentic to my core," he'll get it Deep enough in his body now to not fool himself [00:41:40] The Vocal Cord Miracle and Feeling Unwanted Went to ear, nose, throat doctor after the church message Doctor put camera down his throat, looked at vocal cords "Dane, your vocal cords look pristine" The four signs made him "feel so wanted by God" Mother was concert-level flute player, listened to sophisticated music in the womb [00:46:20] Holy Spirit Working Through Connection Marcus Collier told Kevin: "This is the Holy Spirit working through you" Making introductions and connections is being a vessel When you allow it, you become more effective They want more of that feeling [00:49:36] Where to Find Dane and Final Message Instagram: @musicbydane (Music by Dane) Website: danemaxwell.com (book, businesses, principles) Encourages Christians: stay where you are, it's close to God Book recommendation: "The Great Work of Your Life" "May anybody who loves God the way they do continue to love God the way they do"   KEY QUOTES "How do you strip men of their power? You make them believe that the outside world can make them happy. You make them believe that worth is an achievement. That worth is status, that worth is attention." - Dane Maxwell "What we're supposed to be doing with our life is evolving our consciousness to such a state that we can become a completely surrendered vessel for the divine love of God to flow through. That's the mecca, the mecca of bliss." - Dane Maxwell "I've felt so unwanted on the earth and in my life, and just such a deep degree of unwantedness, which was a product of the conditioning of the nineties, which is you have to be a certain way to be wanted." - Dane Maxwell "In Isaiah they say, and the Lord said, whom shall I send? And I said, here am I. Send me." - Isaiah (quoted by Dane) CONNECT WITH DANE MAXWELL 

What if the most important decision you ever made was trusting someone who saw your potential before you fully saw it yourself? In this episode, Morgan Nichols, CEO of Life Branch Wealth Partners and financial advisor, shares her journey from a 25-year-old in corporate finance loading up a U-Haul and driving cross-country to lead a financial advisory practice in Texas. As the first born of two financial advisors, Morgan was "destined" for this work, but it was her father-in-law Gary's belief in her potential that gave her the springboard to build a multi-state practice with offices in three states and serve four generations of the same family. From working in a male-dominated sales environment where she was the youngest person on the desk to becoming CEO and co-authoring "Intentional Legacy" with partner Kelly Base, Morgan's story reveals the power of relationships that see who you can become. Through fertility challenges overcome with the help of two incredible doctors, she now wakes up every morning with her three-year-old daughter as her "why," a constant reminder that we get one shot at this life, so we might as well make it as intentional and impactful as possible. Morgan shares why achievement without purpose left her asking "why do we work so hard?", how opposite strengths with the right partner create relationship gold, and why showing up with gratitude and goodness puts us on the right foot to make million-dollar impacts we might never even see coming.   [00:05:20] What Morgan Does: Financial Advisor with a Different Approach Financial advisor and CEO of Life Branch Wealth Partners Careful to define "financial advisor" - not just transactional relationships Works with clients covering all areas of financial lives Serves individuals, families with larger portfolios, and small business owners Helps clients navigate financial peace of mind [00:06:32] Leading a Multi-State Practice: Growth-Minded Excellence CEO of practice with offices in three states: Grapevine, Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth area) Harrisonburg, Virginia Chicagoland area, Illinois Loves learning about industry changes and simplifying for clients Leads a team, trains younger advisors Works with well-seasoned advisors, sharing perspectives Building a team focused on making a difference in the lives of others [00:07:45] Destined for This Work: The Apple Didn't Fall Far First born of two financial advisors After college, took a job in Boston in wholesaling, corporate finance Enjoyed opportunities and learning ground Recognized that for some people, personal finance makes their eyes glaze over; they just want to delegate it [00:09:18] Most Impactful Result: Four Generations of One Family Works with four generations of one family Started with one generation in the middle: husband and wife in their 30s trying to raise children and manage life Over time, ended up working with the parents and grandparents Heartwarming to know the whole family line is seeing the benefit of planning [00:12:00] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Gary's Leap of Faith Father-in-law Gary is the advisor who gave her the career opportunity At 25, working in corporate finance in Boston, thought she was doing pretty good Had opportunity to leave Boston, load up U-Haul, drive across country Without that opportunity, she wouldn't have ability to springboard the way she is today Achievement is one of her core values, and this relationship helped her grow her career [00:16:34] Finding Relationship Gold: Kelly Base and Opposite Strengths Kelly Base is an advisor on her team Co-authored book "Intentional Legacy" together over the past year Met in 2023 through a women's entrepreneurial group Having more fun in their career than they ever could have imagined "We have to find people that compliment our strengths and can also speak truth in our lives so we can become the sharpest versions of ourselves and sharpen one another" [00:19:20] The Million-Dollar Question: Why Do We Work So Hard? Very driven, wired a certain way Can work all day, come home, be fulfilled in career When she really dove into her values, realized family really matters Area families don't always talk about: challenges with fertility, having a family Felt sharing her story was important so others can feel comfortable sharing theirs [00:20:00] The Gift of Life: Two Doctors and a Miracle Had two doctors in her life who navigated the challenge with her Journey from "we don't think you're gonna be able to have children" to having a beautiful daughter In the spirit of intention, being achievement-minded and a mom "I've got my work baby and my baby baby, and I'm always juggling their priorities" Doctors gave her the shot to pour into the next generation [00:22:20] Faith and Gratitude: The Foundation of Everything Faith is very important to her and aligns with her values Has achievement as a value Leans into her faith as she does her work and lives her personal life Hopes to continue making an impact in lives of others, personally and professionally [00:24:00] Giving Back: Grace and Growing Generosity Giving back in community is really important Supports Grace, a local charitable organization helping the underserved who need help As a business, able to support their endeavors and help those who need it most Giving back is ingrained in core values Wouldn't have a business if it weren't for relationship with Gary, or it wouldn't look the way it does today [00:30:17] Mentorship Matters: Female Advisors Pouring In Started career in sales environment that was probably 10% female Was the youngest person on the sales desk in downtown Boston Now advocates for young women starting in finance: "Go find mentors. You're not too young, don't hesitate. This is a great career and you can get so much out of those relationships" "You never even know where all of them are gonna lead, but they make such an impact" [00:32:05] Where to Find Morgan & The Intentional Legacy Website for book: intentionallegacybook.com Feedback: "This is something I wish I would've read 20, 30 years ago. I really want my children to read it" Personal website: lifebranchwealth.com Always glad to have a conversation with anyone   KEY QUOTES "We get one shot at this life, so we might as well make it as intentional, as and impactful as possible." - Morgan Nichols "I can't put a price tag on that... These doctors just helped give me the daughter, and that's gonna be a generational impact." - Morgan Nichols "We have to find people that compliment our strengths and can also speak truth in our lives so we can become the sharpest versions of ourselves and sharpen one another." - Morgan Nichols "If we keep showing up with goodness, we show up with gratitude and acknowledging our blessings, it puts us on the right foot to see opportunity and to really make a difference." - Morgan Nichols "If I just do what I'm doing and I don't intentionally think about what I'm doing and why, you know, she's gonna be 15 and I'm not gonna get those years back." - Morgan Nichols CONNECT WITH MORGAN NICHOLS 

What if the most important relationship you'll ever have isn't with your mentor or business partner, but with yourself? In this episode, Lin Yuan-Su, a mindset coach for high-achieving entrepreneurs, shares her journey from being a "miserably successful" registered dietitian to building a thriving coaching business. After six years of education and eight years in a soul-sucking career that looked perfect from the outside, Lin found herself crying in a parking lot, making what she calls a "spiritual decision": something must change, even though she had no plan. Through a 30-minute video ad on social media, Lin discovered her mentor Mary Morrissey from Brave Thinking Institute, and everything shifted. That relationship, along with coach Kirsten Wells, changed her life so profoundly that she named her daughter Mary in honor of it. From helping a burned-out restaurant owner expand from one struggling location to five thriving restaurants to manifesting $50,000 in hours to save her own event, Lin's story proves that the right relationships reveal who you've always been meant to become. Lin reveals why being kind to yourself is the first step to transformation, how her mentors kept her from drowning in fear, and why we're all perfect exactly as we are.   [00:05:01] The Journey: From China to Canada to Crying in a Parking Lot Born and raised in China, came to Canada at age 20 Studied nutrition for six years (undergrad + master's degree) because she loved food and was curious about the human body Became a registered dietitian, worked in healthcare for 8 years From the very beginning, felt unfulfilled but was too afraid to change Everyone saw her as successful: secure job, good pay, pension, benefits But inside, she was "miserably successful," shiny on the outside, hollow and miserable inside The turning point: crying in an empty parking lot, devastated about the life she'd worked so hard to build [00:08:20] The Spiritual Decision: Something Must Change Made a decision in that parking lot moment: "something got to change" Had no plan, no idea what the change would be Calls it a "spiritual decision," trusting that something must shift Things started showing up differently in her life after that decision Began building her entrepreneurial journey part-time while still working full-time Led to discovering her calling as a mindset coach [00:09:08] What Lin Does: Helping Entrepreneurs Discover Their Truth Mindset coach for high-achieving, heart-centered, passion-driven entrepreneurs Helps people discover "what is the truth between their two ears" Supports clients to see they can do more, give more, make bigger impact Helps clients connect with others at a deeper, meaningful level Creates space for clients to say "I love my life" [00:11:36] The Power of Self-Relationship: Being Kind to Yourself First relationship is with ourselves We would never say "what's wrong with me?" to our best friend, yet we say it to ourselves "We are perfect as this higher power made us" When you notice something you don't want, that's good news: it's the starting point That awareness is the beginning of next-level expansion, growth, abundance, freedom [00:13:07] Most Impactful Result: Julia's Restaurant Revolution Client Julia, age 24, had double degree in nutrition and business Working 12-13 hours every single day, Monday to Sunday, no breaks Owned one restaurant that was losing money Did coaching call from Hawaii via Zoom Became a much better boss to her employees [00:18:02] The Relationship That Changed Everything: Meeting Mary Morrissey Found her mentor Mary Morrissey through a 30-minute video ad on social media Doesn't remember what Mary said, but remembers the feeling "I found the person who can understand me" Felt Mary's love, gentleness, and belief even without ever talking to her Also met Kirsten Wells, another coach and mentor [00:20:31] Beyond Business: Manifesting Her Daughter Mary Through relationship with Mary and Kirsten, built on love, trust, and unconditional belief Lin manifested a child along this journey Named her daughter Mary Lee to honor the relationship with Mary Morrissey Calls her daughter "our girl" when talking to Mary [00:24:00] Crisis Moment: The $50,000 Hotel Bill Two years ago, planned a three-day event as brand-new entrepreneur Wanted to model what she'd watched her mentor Mary do Reached out to hotel, signed contract, but didn't fully check payment due dates Event happened successfully [00:26:54] The Ripple Effect: What Happened at the Event One baby was manifested: client stood up, shared vision of having a child, got pregnant months later At least three people moved into their dream houses within a year People manifested love: one team member met a man at the event, clicked immediately, still together today Chain reaction of transformation that wouldn't have been possible without mentors' support [00:29:08] Where to Find Lin & How She Shows Up Website: enlightenedsuccess.com (all contact information available) Active on all major social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram Search her name (unique with hyphen)—usually first result Believes in giving—offers 15-minute calls to anyone who reaches out Her intention: "In this moment, what can I serve you? What can I do to make your day, your moment better?"   KEY QUOTES "You noticed something you don't want? That's good news because guess what? From that moment then you can really start to discover what is great that I am about to start making. And that is the starting point of anybody's next level of expansion, growth, more abundance, more freedom, more money, more time freedom, more happiness, more fulfillment." - Lin Yuan-Su "We are perfect as this higher power made us. We are perfect already. And the next step is to listen to your heart." - Lin Yuan-Su "They don't believe my limiting beliefs. They believe in what I want, what I know is possible and they support me when I was shaking." - Lin Yuan-Su CONNECT WITH LIN YUAN-SU

What if a traumatic childhood experience could become the catalyst for a career saving thousands of lives, not through arrests, but through education and early intervention? In this episode, Chuck Marting, retired law enforcement officer with 19 years of distinguished service and founder of Colorado Mobile Drug Testing, shares his unexpected journey from almost being kidnapped as a teen in Southern California to becoming one of the nation's leading experts in workplace impairment detection. Through a pivotal moment when an officer took the extra step to check on him that same night, Chuck discovered his calling: if he could do for others what that officer did for him, his life would have meaning. From earning recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving to becoming a certified Drug Recognition Expert to building a mobile drug testing business from his kitchen table 14 years ago, Chuck has transformed how employers protect their teams. His philosophy is revolutionary: shift from "zero tolerance" (reactive, after the fact) to "zero blind spots" (proactive, before tragedy strikes). With workplace impairment costing US businesses $81 billion annually, Chuck's mission has never been more critical. Chuck reveals the restaurant encounter where a former client thanked him for saving his family, how one trained supervisor caught an employee vaping marijuana in plain sight, and why relationships with his father, his wife of 35 years, and mentors like Jack Canfield have shaped everything he does.   [00:04:30] The Origin Story: A Childhood Trauma That Planted a Seed As a teen in Southern California, Chuck was grabbed by someone attempting to kidnap him Broke free, ran to nearest house, called for help Police officer arrested the suspect quickly [00:06:24] Finding His Gift: Becoming a Drug Recognition Expert Got into law enforcement and discovered natural gift for detecting impairment Performed so many DUI arrests that Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognized him Sent to Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) school, one of law enforcement's hardest certifications Equivalent of college semester compressed into two weeks [00:08:20] The Kitchen Table Beginning: Starting Colorado Mobile Drug Testing 14 years ago, arrested someone who was panicking about missing pre-employment drug test Answer: "Nobody does that" Light bulb moment: started researching, found nobody in Colorado doing mobile drug testing Started business at kitchen table with his wife [00:09:40] The Problem Chuck Solves: Teaching "Zero Blind Spots" Saw supervisors missing obvious signs of impairment due to lack of training Most employers treat drug testing as afterthought until crisis hits Workplace impairment costs: $81 billion/year in US, $4 trillion/year worldwide Created training programs that go beyond textbook knowledge [00:12:20] Colorado's Marijuana Legalization: 21 Years Later Colorado and Washington legalized marijuana over 21 years ago Even after two decades, many Colorado employers still have no policies or training Chuck speaks nationally and trains companies on handling this challenge Also coaches supervisors on leadership skills learned from law enforcement Active listening, de-escalation, and other cop skills translate directly to business leadership [00:16:11] Most Impactful Result: The Restaurant Encounter Two years ago, took team to Christmas dinner at restaurant in city where he was officer Hesitant to go (officers typically avoid areas they policed) Chuck's immediate concern: arrested? positive drug test? upset? The reveal: "Four weeks ago I lost my job because I had a positive drug test" [00:26:00] Recent Impact: The Supervisor Who Caught the Vape Trained a "designated employer rep" (safety program manager) who became passionate about program Client called Chuck: "Something's off with this employee, I need confirmation" Supervisor thanked Chuck: "I don't know if I would've ever caught this before" This is Chuck's mission: protecting employers, teams, and community [00:29:20] Why This Work Matters: The 3 AM Calls As officer, had to tell families at 2-3 AM their loved one was killed by impaired driver "Very difficult situation to have to be in" Employers face same situation when workplace accidents occur Would do this work even without pay; mission to prevent tragedies "I'm only one guy doing the best I can to get it out there" [00:32:00] Chuck's Business Philosophy Runs 24/7 operation and is available anytime because problems don't wait "If I get a call at 3 AM, so be it. You might have to give me a couple minutes because it might sound like I need a drug test" Doesn't want anyone waiting or feeling like they're inconveniencing him Core message: Zero tolerance is reactionary and after the fact Zero blind spots is proactive, recognizing issues before tragedy strikes   KEY QUOTES "What made the impact on me was later on that night, that officer came to my home to make sure that I was okay. He took that added time. That made that impression on me. And I remember thinking to myself, if I can do what he just did for somebody else, then I want to do that." - Chuck Marting "It's hard to read the label when you're inside the bottle." - Chuck Marting "I'm not gonna be able to take somebody in an hour or two hours of training and turn them into a drug recognition expert, but if they listen to some of the things that I teach them, they're gonna catch those things." - Chuck Marting "Zero tolerance is reactionary, after the fact. Zero blind spots: recognizing this before something happens, is what we have to focus on." - Chuck Marting   CONNECT WITH CHUCK MARTING

What if you could help someone completely transform their career in just 45 minutes, not by training them to be someone they're not, but by revealing who they've always been? In this episode, Steve Woodruff, author of "Clarity Wins" and "The Point," shares his unexpected journey from Vanderbilt astronomy student dreaming of becoming an astronaut to becoming the "King of Clarity" who's spent 20 years helping professionals discover and communicate their true identity. Through a pivotal relationship with a manager-friend who made one simple observation ("Let Steve run with sales and Rob run with service because that's what you're good at"), Steve discovered that fitting people into their strengths, not training them to overcome weaknesses, is the ultimate key to success.  From consulting with pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer, Novartis, and GSK to leading 100 emerging leaders globally during the pandemic to transforming his own pastor's preaching, Steve has developed the Clarity Fuel Formula, a brain science-backed framework that helps anyone cut through noise and connect powerfully. His philosophy is simple but revolutionary: "You can't read the label of the jar you're in." We need someone on the outside to reveal who we really are. Steve reveals how he helps people experience that jaw-dropping moment when someone finally sees them (and they see themselves), why the first 15 seconds of any interaction matter most, how "memory darts" beat elevator pitches every time, and why his biggest professional thrill is attaching the right words to someone's identity and watching their entire career trajectory transform.   [00:03:59] The Journey: From Aspiring Astronaut to King of Clarity Childhood dream: becoming an astronaut Started at Vanderbilt University studying astronomy Hit a wall with calculus and physics, realized he loved words more than numbers Shifted to psychology, fascinated by how the human mind and communication work Moved into business sales and marketing [00:07:39] What Steve Does: Revealing Who People Really Are Works with corporations (pharma/biotech primarily) on communication training Developed the Clarity Fuel Formula: framework for clear communication in every format Real passion: entrepreneurs, solos, small businesses, and individuals Specializes in helping people discover their identity, purpose, and how to articulate it [00:09:23] Most Impactful Result: The Infrastructure Builder Met Jason, a sales training manager at pharma company, for networking lunch Through conversation, Steve identified Jason's core strength: infrastructure building Gave Jason the exact words to describe his superpower Jason found perfect role at training organization in disarray [00:12:00] Pandemic Pivot: Training 100 Leaders Globally via Zoom Companies forced to move training online during COVID Steve led personal branding workshop for 100 emerging leaders globally All done from his desk via Zoom, no travel for days required [00:14:38] What Inspires Steve: The Jaw-Drop Moment Most people (including himself for years) are only half-aware of who they really are People are guessing, trying different things without true north Has unique ability to ask questions and see themes emerge quickly The magic moment: 45-60 minutes in, holds up "figurative mirror" [00:17:04] The Relationship That Changed Everything During first 10-year career job, Steve and colleague split country for sales/service One person better at sales, other better at service, but both trying to do both This insight plus reading StrengthsFinder completely revolutionized Steve's view of work [00:21:41] Recent Impact: Transforming His Pastor's Preaching Steve's work applies 100% to church settings, not just business Pastor came to dinner, Steve discussed "memory darts" concept Memory darts: short, vivid ideas using analogies, illustrations, or stories instead of elevator pitches Pastor wanted to improve preaching and asked Steve for help [00:23:58] Where to Find Steve & His Resources Company: Clarity Fuel (clarityfuel.com redirects to stevewoodruff.com) Most active on LinkedIn with newsletter and regular posts about clarity Two books: "Clarity Wins" (branding, niches, pigeonholes) and "The Point" (universal framework for clear communication) The challenge: "The Point" is for 8 billion people, anyone, any role, any place, anytime [00:26:40] The First 15 Seconds: Why They Matter Most Success boils down to the first 15 seconds of any interaction Must earn attention with something interesting, relevant, and compelling Get rid of the elevator pitch (telling and selling) Learn to answer "What do you do?" in 15 seconds that makes people say "Huh? Tell me more" Biggest problem: TMI (Too Much Information)   KEY QUOTES  "You can't read the label of the jar you're in. We are not able to be objective about ourselves. We need someone on the outside who can look at us and say, this is really who you are." - Steve Woodruff "I'm not here to train people to become what they're not. I'm here to reveal to them who they are. When you try to train people to be what they're not, you're setting yourself and them up for a world of hurt." - Steve Woodruff "We have stewardship over our lives. We have one life. If we're wasting it, even with good intentions doing the wrong thing, that's a terrible shame." - Steve Woodruff "People don't need information. They need to know why they should care." - Steve Woodruff "Nobody wants to hear your monologue. They want to hear something that makes them say, 'What in the world are you talking about? Tell me about it.' And we're off and running." - Steve Woodruff CONNECT WITH STEVE WOODRUFF 

What if the emptiness you feel despite your success isn't a sign you're broken, but a signal you're ready for something deeper? In this episode, Andrew Anderson, a transformational coach for high-achieving business leaders, shares his remarkable journey from elementary school playground helper to teaching career to becoming the guide that successful entrepreneurs call when they have "problems money can't solve." Through two pivotal relationships, Xavier, a Belgian mentor he met at 19 who still coaches him 21 years later, and Kevin Hall (former VP of Franklin Covey), who saw potential in him during his darkest season.  Andrew discovered how to help others move from survival to thriving, from playing defense to playing offense with their lives. From reconnecting with Xavier during his friend's divorce and flipping their mentor-mentee dynamic, to standing in the Virgin River at Zion National Park receiving divine inspiration to write a book that would later save a man's life, Andrew reveals how the right relationships at the right time don't just change your business trajectory but reshape your entire identity and calling. His approach cuts through years of traditional therapy in hours, helping clients rewire neural pathways and reconnect with who they truly are beneath the pain. Andrew reflects on honoring the versions of ourselves that went through hard things, why most people are playing not to lose instead of playing to win, and how a single conversation can absolutely change the trajectory of a career, relationship, or life.   [00:04:42] What Andrew Does: Solving Problems Money Can't Solve Shows up in three or four important roles each day First as a son of God Husband supporting wife who homeschools and does foot zoning Father to seven children [00:07:25] The Origin Story: Fourth Grade Playground Met Lap, a Vietnamese student who spoke zero English Became his playground buddy through the universal language of play Lap helped Andrew with math; Andrew helped him with sports First recognition of unique ability to see needs and show up for individuals [00:10:50] The Unique Ability Discovery References Dan Sullivan's Strategic Coach concept Like Marcus Colius told Kevin: "This is the Holy Spirit working through you" Unique abilities reveal themselves through stewardship, not searching [00:16:06] The Transition: From Teaching to Coaching Six years as a classroom teacher Went through separation and divorce that felt like life was over Lost career, marriage, and family simultaneously Left teaching, sold real estate for one year, then started coaching agents [00:20:00] Client Success Story: "Jared" Nearly million-dollar business but struggling with drug addiction, porn addiction Couldn't have children for several years, had hard time keeping money Worked at deep unconscious level to find root causes of self-sabotage Process took hours, not years - created new neural pathways [00:24:33] Playing Offense vs. Defense Andrew's 76-year-old dad's wisdom: "Play to win, don't play not to lose" Most people in life are playing defense, trying to get out of pain First day and a half with clients: playing defense but with love, not resistance [00:27:37] Xavier: The 21-Year Friendship Met in Belgium when Andrew was 19, Xavier was 28-29 Still FaceTimes to this day after 21 years Has visited Andrew's home three times, supports his retreats Andrew's best friend and coach for deepest heart and soul questions [00:29:26] Kevin Hall: The Professional Catalyst Met summer 2015 during Andrew's transition period Former VP of Sales at Franklin Covey, worked with Stephen Covey Author of "Aspire" teaching 10 powerful words Saw something in 29-year-old Andrew during training event Took Andrew under his wing in group coaching [00:32:04] The Book That Saved a Life Standing in Virgin River at Zion National Park at Kevin Hall's event God said: "You're gonna write a book" Title: "Strength of the Oak, Strength of the Willow" Two things keeping him from suicide: the Bible and Andrew's book   KEY QUOTES "Single conversation is guaranteed to change the trajectory of a career, a relationship, or a life. Any single conversation absolutely can." - Andrew Anderson (quoting Susan Scott) "You need to honor and respect that version of you because you would not be doing what you're doing and helping who you're helping or anything without having gone through that experience." - Xavier (to Andrew) "You gotta play to win. Don't play not to lose." - Andrew's 76-year-old dad "It's really hard to move forward while you're looking back." - Andrew Anderson "If you want to find yourself, you're gonna have to lose yourself. And if you're looking for happiness, the best way to find it is to give and do it unconditionally." - Andrew Anderson (referencing Jesus) CONNECT WITH ANDREW ANDERSON

What if the work you do every day could help 15-25 families consider adoption with just a $1,500 Christmas card budget? In this episode, Graeme Watt, co-founder and leader of Anthem Creative, shares his remarkable journey from outdoor adventure guide to nonprofit founder to running a thriving creative agency that serves organizations pursuing human flourishing. Through pivotal relationships with two mentors - Tom Ko, his "fundraising Yoda," and Michael Gibney, his business mentor of 15 years - Graeme discovered how to build businesses that amplify good in the world. From Googling "how to start a nonprofit" at age 26 to celebrating 10 years running a full-service agency with his brother, Graeme reveals how the right relationships at the right time, combined with unwavering optimism and clear vision, can transform not just your business trajectory but your entire life's work. His agency operates with a simple filter: "Will this amplify human flourishing?" This principle guides everything from client selection to team building, creating a business that treats every project as an opportunity to make the world better. Graeme reflects on how mentorship shaped his leadership, why passion is the single greatest competitive advantage in hiring, and how one adoption agency campaign proved that creative work can genuinely change lives - one family at a time.   [00:04:00] What Graeme Does: Amplifying Good Through Creative Services Co-founder of Anthem Creative with his brother Mark Mission: Partner with organizations pursuing human flourishing to amplify their impact online Portfolio company structure with main operating company as creative agency Core filter for all decisions: "Will this amplify human flourishing?" Specializes in branding, custom web experiences, and film/documentary work [00:06:00] The Journey: From Outdoor Guide to Entrepreneur Studied ecotourism and outdoor leadership (not business) Worked as river guide and rock climbing guide early in career Married and moved to Edmonton, Alberta where outdoor industry didn't exist Started working with youth and students, creating experiments for young people At 26, Googled "how to start a nonprofit organization" and launched one from his living room [00:10:00] The Haiti Moment: Brothers Unite Graeme worked at World Vision Canada (large global NGO) Submitted innovation grant proposals that kept getting funded Hired his brother's agency for these innovation projects Graeme quit his nonprofit job and joined his brother full-time Just celebrated 10 years in business together [00:11:25] Most Impactful Result: The Adoption Agency Campaign Early in agency life, partnered with local adoption agency Handled complete rebrand: new name, website, video content, and collateral Agency wanted to run year-end digital ad campaign but had no budget Got creative: repurposed $1,500 Christmas card budget for digital ads Launched December 20th using brand hero video they'd already created [00:17:00] How They Met: Through a Designer's Introduction Met when Graeme was 26, starting nonprofit from scratch Introduced by Ian, a freelance designer working with Graeme Graeme was building a board and asked if anyone knew potential board members Tom had 30 years in nonprofit space, running successful consulting firm Graeme thought: "He's not gonna want anything to do with a guy like me" [00:18:07] Tom's Investment: Chairing the Board Tom was captivated by Graeme's passion and vision Immediately offered: "I would love to chair your board if you would have me" Became board chair when organization "wasn't even really an organization" Taught Graeme everything about fundraising, board leadership, governance, and agency agreements [00:24:00] How They Met: Through an Intern's Introduction Michael's daughter was Graeme's intern at World Vision Canada Graeme was running a coffee company on the side (social enterprise sourcing from Africa) Michael also involved in coffee and sourcing products from developing world [00:25:20] The Mentorship Terms: 30 Minutes of $900/Hour Time Graeme was looking for business-side mentor (had Tom for nonprofit side) Asked Michael directly: "Would you consider mentoring me?" Michael's conditions: "My time is really valuable—I charge $900/hour" Michael's offer: "I'll give you 30 minutes whenever you need it, but:" 15 years later, relationship still going strong [00:27:37] Michael's Lasting Impact: Believing Before Graeme Did Every major business decision has had Michael's voice in it In 15 years, has never steered Graeme wrong Saw things in Graeme that he didn't believe were there Believed in Graeme when he didn't believe in himself [00:29:00] Real-Time Impact: The 3D Printing Product Launch Operating partner designed proprietary product for global market 3D printed product with penny manufacturing costs and high margins Required expertise in international patent law and licensing agreements Called Michael 40 minutes before podcast recording [00:33:40] Philosophy: The Power of Pursuing Human Flourishing Commitment to human flourishing attracts incredible relationships and opportunities Right people show up at right times with needed expertise Until recently, never posted job openings—always went to network   KEY QUOTES "The ability to clearly communicate a future vision with conviction and passion—there are a few skills that are more valuable than that." - Graeme Watt "The glass is always half full with me. It's always optimistic. We're always gonna figure it out." - Graeme Watt "If you can constantly see the forest, then you don't get bogged down by the trees." - Graeme Watt "Whoever tells the best story wins." - Graeme Watt "If you give 51% and you give more than you expect in return, then that's a winning formula." - Graeme Watt (referencing Gary Vaynerchuk) CONNECT WITH GRAEME WATT

What if sending one Instagram DM could completely change the trajectory of your life and business? In this episode, Braxton Kilgo, Founder & CEO of I Believe In You (IBIY), shares his incredible journey from a small town in Texas with just 200 people to building a global movement that's touched lives in over 20 countries and 100+ cities. After a career-ending football injury forced him to reimagine his future, Braxton discovered his true calling when a middle school principal's phone call led him to create stickers that said "I believe in you" - sparking a ripple effect of kindness he couldn't ignore. From frantically rewriting a speech 24 hours before delivery to receiving stories about lives saved, Braxton reveals how one bold DM to a stranger in Scottsdale introduced him to his business partners Joey and Dylan, who brought him into a world of entrepreneurs that transformed everything. Through the power of "big belief leading to big action," Braxton built IBIY - a tech-enabled bracelet movement where small acts of kindness create measurable waves of impact, with partnerships including Tony Robbins' Mastermind.com and Recovery Unplugged that happened before they even officially launched their B2B offering. Braxton shares why "show up to serve, not sell" will 10x everything you're doing, how being kind and asking "how can I help you?" creates an army of people ready to connect you with anything you need, and why the person giving the bracelet might experience something even more powerful than the person receiving it.   [00:05:19] What Braxton Does: Building a Kindness Movement with Technology Founded I Believe In You (IBIY) - a movement centered on one core belief: small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact Flagship product: Bracelets with "I believe in you" message that you wear with the intention to give away Each bracelet contains an NFC chip synced with mobile app - tap your phone to see personalized video/photo messages and track the bracelet's journey Track every city, country, and person impacted - watch your ripple effect spread around the world even after you give it away Mission: Create an army of "wave makers" to make impact as individuals and businesses [00:07:40] The Origin Story: From Football Dreams to Purpose Grew up in May, Texas - a town of 200 people where his whole family lived on one farm Thought his only path out was playing in the NFL Got to college on a football scholarship but struggled with injuries, limping off the field every day after practice Strength coach Coach Ramey pulled him aside: "I think you were made for something bigger than this, and I think you also want to be able to run around in the yard with your kids one day" Eventually dropped out, went back to the farm and oil field, returned to school and started a clothing company called Vision about defining your version of success [00:10:41] The Pivotal Moment: A Principal's Phone Call That Changed Everything Got invited to speak at a middle school (about 10 schools in, wasn't very good yet) Principal called 24 hours before: "I wanted to remind you what some of the kids are going through at home and at school so you really know who you're talking to" Spent 10 minutes breaking Braxton's heart with stories Braxton told his brother: "I wrote the wrong speech. I'm not qualified" [00:12:37] The Unexpected Impact: When Kindness Goes Viral Principal called days later: Kids were being nicer to each other in hallways and to staff Parents called thanking them for the speaker because of conversations kids started at home Local businesses called asking "what are these ugly ass stickers these kids are sticking on everything?" At 19 years old, shipped bracelets to 16 different countries, appeared on TV channels and podcasts [00:15:01] The Long Journey: From 19 to 30 and Back Again Realized he didn't know any entrepreneurs - "the only person I knew that was maybe a business person was the guy who had more cows next door" Put IBIY on pause to learn how to be a business person and build the technology Built another company (Hours Global - business consulting) that he used to fund IBIY Worked with 1,000+ clients in sales, branding, and high-level partnerships over the decade Now ready to launch IBIY to the world at age 30 (turns 30 next week) [00:18:29] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Introduction Who Changed Everything: Joey and Dylan (his business partners) [00:19:25] Pivotal People: Joey and Dylan - The Instagram DM That Changed Everything Was planning to move to Fort Lauderdale with his best friend/brother Two friends convinced them to move to Scottsdale instead - "at least come for a little while" On the drive to Scottsdale in a U-Haul, looked for people doing cool stuff on Instagram Never had true friends who were also entrepreneurs before meeting Joey and Dylan They introduced him to Devon who runs Arizona Entrepreneurs, which is where he met Nico [00:21:18] The Scottsdale Effect: From 10 Months to 5 Years Original plan: Stay in Scottsdale for 10-12 months then leave Reality: Stayed for 5 years and was the last one there after all his friends moved Joey and Dylan are now his business partners in IBIY They're the reason he brought IBIY back when he did [00:23:20] The Arizona Entrepreneurs Connection: Opening Doors Everywhere Joey and Dylan introduced him to the Arizona Entrepreneurs community Became the official marketing partner of the entire Arizona Entrepreneur group His first investor for IBIY came from one of those stages Got to sit on stages with "some of the top entrepreneurs in the world" even though they'd done "astronomically more" than him" [00:31:42] The Three Pillars of IBIY Direct-to-Consumer: Bracelets sold online to anyone in the world; each collection gives back to a charity Culture Shift Tour: Speaking at hundreds of schools around the country every year (led by partner Jared), recreating the original sticker moment with real bracelets B2B Partnerships: Custom co-branded bracelets for nonprofits, churches, retreats, conferences, and businesses with custom messaging and packaging [00:32:40] The Partnership Program: Impact You Can Track Organizations get completely co-branded bracelets and packaging Can leave a custom message on the front of all bracelets (video from founder/leader appears first time it's tapped) Working with major companies BEFORE officially launching: Recovery Unplugged, Mastermind.com (Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi), Dick's Sporting Goods meeting scheduled, ClickFunnels reached out All from texting friends and reaching out through personal relationships - no marketing yet [00:38:59] Braxton's Advice: Big Belief, Big Action, Big Results "You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly" "Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results" "Little belief leads to little action, which then basically just has you re-solidify in your mind that you couldn't do it" "If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic" [00:41:00] The Giver's Gift "It's really awesome for the people that receive the bracelet, but I think it might still be more powerful to the person that gives it away"   KEY QUOTES "Small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact." - Braxton Kilgo "You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly. Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results." - Braxton Kilgo "If you show up to serve, not sell, it will 10x everything that you're doing." - Braxton Kilgo "If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic." - Braxton Kilgo CONNECT WITH BRAXTON KILGO

What if a single introduction from a stranger you never saw again could change your entire life? In this episode, Theresa Bassett, CEO of The Diamond Group and sales and marketing expert with over $550M in transactions, shares the remarkable story of how a mystery connector named Isabelle introduced her to Kelly Bassett at a running training group and then vanished forever. That one serendipitous moment transformed not only Theresa's personal life but her entire professional trajectory, leading her from Fortune 500 corporate sales to building a thriving 28-year-old family business that now employs a team of 20 and serves small businesses across the nation. Theresa reveals how she "went in kicking and screaming" to entrepreneurship, initially unable to envision herself as a CEO, but discovered her true calling: equipping and empowering small business owners to triple their revenue, build legacy wealth, and create ripple effects that impact entire families and communities. From tripling a home builder's revenue in 18 months to helping a solo orthodontist open five offices and build generational wealth, Theresa's story is a masterclass in the power of partnership, resilience, and saying "yes" even when you can't see the full picture.   [00:05:29] What Theresa Does: Serving Small Business America CEO of The Diamond Group: A sales and marketing growth revenue agency for small businesses Why Small Business? Small businesses provide 86% of jobs in America Theresa counts it as one of her greatest privileges to employ a team of 20 people Every time a team member buys a car, house, or takes a vacation, it feels like a personal victory [00:07:43] The Backstory: From Corporate to Coaching to CEO Trained as a sales professional working for major home builders Merchandised new home neighborhoods for the biggest builders in the world Coached business owners on sales and marketing one-on-one Believed in the power of personalized consulting to elevate brands [00:08:55] The Life-Changing Introduction Both showed up at a running training group Neither could run "a lick"—couldn't even run to the corner A woman named Isabelle was at the front gate Isabelle: "Oh, you're new. There's this other new guy here too. His name's Kelly. I should have you meet." [00:11:40] The Partnership Begins: Joining The Diamond Group Started an agency in San Francisco, California Left the radio industry as a producer to produce radio ads independently Known as "Crash Bassett" in the radio world (crashed his truck into a brick wall on the way to work) When radio consolidated, he pivoted to more video production [00:13:13] Going "In Kicking and Screaming" A marketing agency had never been on her radar "Okay God, what are you up to? Seriously, whatcha up to?" Admits: "I had some selfish motives" [00:16:34] Kelly's Remarkable Pivot Not easy to welcome a new partner into your business Not easy to move yourself from chief/presidency to welcome a CEO alongside you Kelly allowed Theresa's vision to come up alongside his Eventually, her vision became the vision they were calibrating to [00:17:47] Results That Create Ripple Effects Rebranded a couple times along the journey Name reflects the resiliency and strength they build in strong businesses Goal: Build strong, sustainable sales and marketing systems so businesses don't run owners into the ground [00:18:58] Marketing Is About More Than New Customers The Recruiting Connection: "People think of marketing as new clients, customers, and patients, but marketing is also about new team members. Recruiting is a marketing and sales activity. If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand." [00:21:10] The Power Team Approach Theresa couldn't do this work alone When a client comes in, they get a "power team": essentially a sales and marketing department down the hall Experts rally around the business, create a strategic plan, and execute It's a co-creative collaborative process [00:22:58] Synergy: 1 + 1 = 3 (or 500!) One plus one equals three The ripple effect of exponential partnering impact Her relationship with Kelly is a prime example: "That was a one plus one equals 500 synergistic relationship" [00:24:21] Impact on Employees: Opening Doors Diamond Group hires and recruits a lot of young professionals Marketing is an industry of youth and talent (especially with AI changing everything) Watching employees soar is "a little bit like watching your kids move up and out of the nest" [00:28:10] Racehorses Run Faster Together Put the blinders on so all they can see is forward But they're getting momentum from running right alongside others "I love running with other racehorses" Iron sharpens iron We're all here to help each other— none of us can do it alone   KEY QUOTES "My mission on the planet is to equip and encourage and embolden leaders and their teams." - Theresa Bassett "Sometimes it's just your door that you open to them is the door that unlocks another door. None of that would've been possible if it weren't for Kelly. Him opening his door to me allowed me to open my door to so many others." - Theresa Bassett  "If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand." - Theresa Bassett "Racehorses are likely to run at least 10% faster when they're next to other racehorses." - Theresa Bassett CONNECT WITH THERESA BASSETT

What if one conversation at 16 could shape the next 40 years of your life? In this episode, Dr. John A. Gallucci Jr., President & CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, shares his remarkable journey from a high school wrestler with injuries to building one of the Northeast's largest physical therapy empires with 170 locations serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Through the pivotal mentorship of Rich Giardano (a relationship that began with a literal smack to the back of the head and the question "What do you want to STUDY?"), John discovered his calling in sports medicine and learned invaluable lessons about business, integrity, and the importance of balance. From nearly losing everything in the first six months to serving over 700 providers and 2,000 employees, John reveals how one mentor's wisdom about networking, continuous learning, and kindness became the foundation for an organization that treats everyone "like a VIP professional athlete." John reflects on how Rich's mentorship shaped not just his clinical skills, but his approach to building culture, fostering the next generation of leaders, and why he believes "one kind brings two." This principle guides JAG Physical Therapy's mission to help people "get back to the life you love."   [00:04:35] What John Does: Dual-Licensed Healthcare Leader Dual licensed as both a certified athletic trainer (ATC) and physical therapist (PT, DPT) Master's degree in sports science and master's in physical therapy, plus doctorate in physical therapy President, CEO, and Founder of JAG Physical Therapy (John Anthony Gallucci = JAG) [00:08:11] Most Rewarding Case: From "Never Walk Again" to Dancing Woman hit by a taxi cab in New York City Physicians told her she would never walk again without an assisted device John calls this "probably one of the most proudest moments in my professional career" [00:11:05] Growth Strategy: Patients as Best Marketers 80% of growth in just the last two years came from former patients opening doors Patients have spoken to insurance groups, doctors, and healthcare systems to bring JAG into their communities Vision: "My goal is the people that need us have access to us" [00:12:37] Teaching the Next Generation: Network = Net Worth "Your personal network helps you grow your professional network" As professional network grows, it creates more opportunities personally AND professionally Importance of being ingrained in the community while building personal and professional networks [00:13:53] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Mentor Who Changed Everything: Rich Giardano [00:14:00] Pivotal Person: Rich Giardano - The 40-Year Mentor Has been John's mentor since age 16 (John is now 58) Known Rich his whole life, but formal mentorship began in high school Rich is a physical therapist in sports medicine who worked for the New York Rangers and owned his own practice [00:17:12] The Impact of Mentorship: Building JAG on Rich's Principles Within six months of opening JAG Physical Therapy, they were almost out of business Rich sat down with John and reminded him: "You've got this network of people from being in different worlds of pro sports and collegiate sports. You've gotta be able to use that network to foster growth." Within 18 months, they made their first profit (John's wife Dawn was grateful they didn't lose their home!) [00:19:52] Personal Life: 40 Years Together Family Foundation: Married to Dawn for 35 years this December (together for 40 years total) Known each other since age 9, dating since age 18 Two children: Stephanie and Charles [00:22:41] Advice: Enjoy the Ride John's Best Advice: "No matter what you're building, enjoy the ride. Sometimes you get caught up in it. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win." Taking moments to sit back and say "wow" about the journey: from 1,800 square feet to 170 locations, from one clinician to 700+ providers. [00:23:20] The Congressional Moment: Realizing the Impact Speaking to Congress: Invited to Washington DC to speak about provision of physical therapy care Topic: Importance of slips and falls prevention for seniors Congressional leader's perspective: "John, you've made an impact in one of the biggest markets in the world, not even in the United States"   KEY QUOTES "The day you stop learning is the day you should no longer be working." - Rich Giardano (John's mentor) "Your personal network helps you grow your professional network. And as your professional network grows, it just gives you more opportunities personally and professionally." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. "Enjoy the ride. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. "The best competitors are those that are also making the competition better." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. CONNECT WITH DR. JOHN GALLUCCI JR.

What if the worst chapters of your life could become the foundation for your greatest impact? In this episode, Michael Dash, entrepreneur, author, and self-described "super connector," shares his remarkable journey from 20 years of addiction and a six-year legal battle to becoming a force for connecting entrepreneurs, building meaningful communities, and helping the formerly incarcerated rebuild their lives. Through two pivotal relationships (his entrepreneurial father and spiritual mentor Soleil Rad), Michael discovered how early business training and a transformed prayer practice could unlock his gift for creating life-changing connections. His mission? Bringing like-minded entrepreneurs together to create exponential impact while building the Impact Accelerator alongside Vince Covino and Satya. Michael reflects on how these mentors shaped his path at critical moments and why he believes authentic relationships and community (not transactional connections) are the keys to transforming both business and life.   [00:04:05] What Michael Does: The Super Connector Describes himself as a "super connector" who finds joy in introducing people from his network Runs Live Life Activated retreats focused on aligning entrepreneurs' physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual practices with their vision Has run six retreats over five years, resulting in three businesses, multiple lasting friendships, and relationships formed among participants Currently working with Vince Covino and Satya building the Impact Accelerator: matching impact-driven entrepreneurs with heart-centered investors [00:11:26] Background: From Recruiting to Retreats Spent 20 years in recruiting and staffing, running his own business for 13 years Natural training ground for being a super connector: "basically what you're doing is matchmaking" Lived in Tulum, Mexico for 4.5 years before recently relocating to Austin, Texas Now focused on the Impact Accelerator: training entrepreneurs to receive funding and matching them with investors who want to make an impact beyond just ROI [00:06:53] Connection Success Story: Winner's Circle Heath & Shelly Winter's Partnership: Heath: Tennessee-based entrepreneur, expert at writing and winning grants Shelly Winter: Served five years in prison for addiction, became #1 salesperson at Microsoft after they initially rescinded her offer due to her record Mission: Helping current inmates train while incarcerated and connecting them with companies willing to hire formerly incarcerated individuals Michael's insight: "Imagine if you were judged your entire life by the worst thing you ever did" Now part of the Impact Accelerator community [00:12:01] The Impact Accelerator Vision Bringing entrepreneurs looking for funding together with impact-driven investors Training entrepreneurs first: MVPs, what to ask for, technical requirements for funding Matching with "heart-centered investors": those who want ROI but also want to make the world better Philosophy: "Take a 10-year plan and make it a three-year plan" through strategic partnerships [00:15:10] The Million Dollar Question: A Key Distinction Michael's Perspective on "Life-Changing" Introductions: Challenges the premise: "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you" "Have I been introduced to people who have shifted my perspective, who have laid out another path that I could travel? Absolutely." Key insight: An experience is only life-changing if you take action afterward "It's really all about what each and every one of us actually does with that experience that can make it life-altering" [00:16:34] Pivotal Person #1: His Father The Entrepreneurial Foundation: Father was an entrepreneur who trained Michael from age 8 Worked in father's retail store and import/export business (collectibles: Swarovski, Baccarat, Waterford, Royal Doulton) Learned about sales, relationships, and "schmoozing" as a child Michael's reflection: "At the end of the day, they did the best with what they had" Their connection was through entrepreneurship and sales [00:19:08] Pivotal Person #2: Soleil Rad The Spiritual Transformation: Met in Tulum, Mexico while Soleil was running men's groups Men's work focused on expressing challenges, confronting shadows, sharing darkest secrets, and celebrating wins Reframed prayer as a partnership with God, not begging "Looking at God as a business partner": giving gratitude, asking for what you want, then showing God you're taking action [00:20:39] The Prayer Practice That Changed Everything Michael's New Approach: Training to be grateful throughout the day: for food, home, even rejections and setbacks "Be grateful the person just turned down the business deal. Be grateful I just got cut off. Be grateful the police pulled me over." Attitude of gratitude that "retrieves" the nervous system Philosophy: Training your vessel to receive the light from God [00:24:23] Kevin's Perspective: The Holy Spirit Connection Being a Vessel: Kevin shares story of Marcus Polls telling him: "This work you do is the Holy Spirit working through you" Realization that super connecting is about allowing yourself to be a vessel "Every conversation I have, I'm just here to be me and be the best steward I can" Partnership with God/Holy Spirit/Universe changes perspective on connecting [00:28:21] The Philosophy of Divine Connections Michael's Belief: "The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now." Flow and keep building without attachment to knowing why Accomplishing more together than any individual can alone [00:30:41] Michael's Book: Chasing the High Chronicles his 20-year addiction journey and six-year legal battle Shares entrepreneurship journey and how he turned his life around Available on Amazon and Audible (Michael narrates the audiobook himself) Fair warning: "If you can handle a Jersey accent for four hours, get it on Audible" [00:31:37] Advice for the Shy: Step Into the Magic For Those Who Hesitate: Fear is what holds back the magic of connection If you're intimidated by someone, that's even MORE reason to introduce yourself Our minds are powerful: we can convince ourselves of anything (good, bad, or ugly) Honor your intuition: If it tells you to speak to someone, go speak to them Opening Questions That Work: Instead of "What do you do?" or "Where are you from?" Try: "What brings you joy in life?" Lead with inquisitive questions, not what you do If you struggle with questions, use ChatGPT for help [00:33:15] The Power of Questions Kevin's Story: At San Diego event, asked someone a question and spent the entire 15-minute break listening Person apologized for not learning anything about Kevin They became very good friends That same trip led to starting the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast KEY QUOTES "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you." - Michael Dash "Looking at God as a business partner." - Michael Dash "The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now." - Michael Dash "Step through that fear because that fear is what holds back the magic." - Michael Dash CONNECT WITH MICHAEL DASH

What if the key to scaling to $250 million wasn't working harder, but working less? In this episode, George Rivera, founder of multiple 7- and 8-figure businesses and creator of the Buy Back Time Formula™, shares his 30-year entrepreneurial journey from a high school supplement business to a $250 million empire. Through the devastating loss of his father to cancer and the life-changing deathbed wisdom "don't miss Leo's games, I missed too many of yours," George discovered that the path to freedom wasn't grinding 100-hour weeks but systematically buying back his time. His mission? Helping entrepreneurs escape the "job with overhead" trap so they can scale their businesses while being present for the moments that matter most with their families. George reflects on how his father's final words arrived at exactly the right moment to transform his entire approach to business, and why buying back your time isn't just about making more money but about reclaiming your life before it's too late.   [00:04:19] The 30-Year Journey Begins Started first business in 1995 at age 17-18 while still in high school Fell for Don Lapre's late-night infomercial (tiny apartment, classified ads, rags to riches) Bought the course, took action, made zero dollars, but the entrepreneur seed was planted Parents thought it was a scam, but George kept pursuing home-based business opportunities [00:05:22] The First Real Business: Supplements & The Internet Summer 1995: Started supplement business after seeing space ads in small business magazines Connected two trends: GNC's explosive growth + the internet's rising adoption First online business launched, didn't go well initially 2-3 years into college: Making as much as doctors while studying pre-med [00:06:46] The Weight Loss Empire & Early Lessons Dominated the keyword "weight loss" on GoTo.com for just 50 cents per click Built and eventually ran the first business into the ground, couldn't keep up with orders Lesson #1: Take your time, build infrastructure so you can scale appropriately Built Google AdSense business to seven figures by 2005-2006 [00:08:31] The Digital Marketing Agency Started agency helping clients with BSLs and one-click upsells in their infancy He was the bottleneck, quality controlling everything, no proper org chart Built a job with overhead, not a business [00:10:44] The $250 Million Supplement Company 10 years ago: Started supplement company with $5,000 seed money But George was working 100+ hours per week, burning midnight oil constantly Would pass out at his desk or stumble into bed, wake up 3-4 hours later and repeat "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years" Money was great, but life was not enjoyable [00:14:21] The Buy Back Time Formula Birth Around 2018-2019: Applied systematic approach to buy back his time Removed himself as the bottleneck Implemented proper SOPs, documentation, training, and later AI Income went UP because he was no longer the bottleneck Bought back dozens of hours per week [00:16:41] Living the Freedom Lifestyle Friends noticed: "You're in Germany driving the Nürburgring, business still running, how?" 6-7 different people asked him to teach this Held workshop at his home to test if the marketplace wanted it Amazing response—decided to package it officially as Buy Back Time Formula [00:18:05] The Father-Son Story That Changed Everything The pivotal relationship that transformed George's entire approach 2015: George's father diagnosed with cancer in February Six months later, he was gone. "That's just how fast cancer can take you" Dad broke the news when George had just adopted his newborn son Leo George spent every day with his dad, driving 1.5 hours each way [00:20:18] The Deathbed Wisdom The million-dollar moment that changed everything Father's last words: "Don't miss Leo's games. I missed too many of yours." Hit George "like a ton of bricks" Brought closure—his dad acknowledged missing George's childhood games George realized: "I'm on pace to replicate the same mistake" [00:22:03] What Really Matters at the End Father never said on his deathbed: "I wish I'd seen one more patient" Never: "I wish I'd closed one more property" (he was in real estate too) Never: "I wish I'd taken that client call or upsold them" Only: "Are the people I love around me? I just need them right now" [00:22:52] Training Your Replacement Need focused attention on him or he'll get influence from somewhere else 2015-2018: George knew he had the problem but didn't have the solution yet It took 3 years for the solution to birth itself into something actionable [00:31:37] The 100-Hour Grind Reality Was working 80-100+ hours per week Weekends meant LESS interruptions, so worked even HARDER Wasn't healthy for mind, wasn't healthy for family Not a sustainable long-term strategy [00:32:33] Life After Buying Back Time Real freedom looks like: Now works 20-30 hours per week when in creation mode Can work as little as 5 hours per week when traveling Can turn phone off and check back tomorrow, nothing falls apart If something breaks, team handles it without him [00:33:08] God's Purpose Realized "I just feel like it's God's purpose of putting me on the planet to help share this" Secondary benefit: Make more money and nice lifestyle Primary benefit: Being with family for the moments that matter Non-negotiable: Not missing games, graduations, or special moments [00:35:42] Northern Michigan & Homeschool Freedom Bought property in Northern Michigan, turned it into successful Airbnb Teaching son how to negotiate real estate deals and assess properties Son is homeschooled, gets to tag along on their adventures Ultimate flexibility: "We're studying the Washington Monument this week. Let's go see it tomorrow" [00:37:20] The Buy Back Time Formula Available at buybacktimeformula.com Everyone's unique—different reasons for wanting to buy back time Some love working but need to cast vision instead of being in the weeds Focus on high-dollar things that move the needle Structure and confidence from someone who's been at it for 30 years KEY QUOTES "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years. Money was great, income was great, but life was not enjoyable." - George Rivera "It's never too late to say, 'Hey, this needs to change 'cause I've already missed moments I'll never get back, but at least I did something about it.' The longer you wait, those missed moments rack up. We wanna be the one that experiences those moments. Not miss 'em." - George Rivera "I was inundated and I didn't know how to properly remove myself as being the bottleneck on a lot of things." - George Rivera CONNECT WITH GEORGE RIVERA

What if middle school endurance training and PhD-level strategic thinking could revolutionize executive coaching? In this episode, Carla Fowler, founder of THAXA and executive coaching expert, shares her unconventional journey from MD/PhD student to surgical resident to performance science coach. Through two pivotal relationships: a demanding outdoor education teacher and a world-class immunology researcher. Carla discovered how physical endurance and strategic thinking form the foundation of extraordinary leadership. Her mission? Helping 50-60 executives at a time accelerate toward their goals using evidence-based performance science while freeing up their mental bandwidth to focus on what matters most. Carla reflects on how these mentors arrived at critical moments in her development and why she believes performance science, not generic leadership advice, is the key to helping leaders achieve breakthrough results. [00:04:00] What THAXA Does THAXA = Executive coaching firm centered on performance science Helps leaders and executives improve results, impact, and leadership Uses rigorous scientific foundation from multiple disciplines Works with 50-60 leaders at a time across diverse industries Every approach is individualized. No cookie-cutter solutions [00:04:00] The Unconventional Path Started career in medicine: MD/PhD program at University of Washington Trained to become an academic physician blending clinical work and research Matched to general surgery residency after graduating Made the hard pivot: left surgery after one year to pursue passion for performance 12 years building a coaching practice that merges science with practical application [00:04:00] The Science Nerd Meets Impact Always fascinated by high performance since fifth grade Loved surgery for its hands-on + decision-making combination Realized coaching could create exponential impact: improve one leader, impact everyone they lead Performance science is broad and deep enough to meet each client's unique needs Blends everything from business strategy to physiology and decision-making [00:16:40] The Power of Mental Clarity Example: Multi-hour focus sessions to help leaders get crystal clear on goals One client shared their clarity framework with their team. Team "lit up" Team members could finally see where they fit and why they mattered Result: Better alignment AND genuine motivation from one strategic input Shows the power of performance science: one principle creates multiple downstream effects [00:20:40] Two Pivotal People [00:21:38] 1. Fran Call: The Physical Endurance Teacher Middle school outdoor education teacher (7th and 8th grade) Ran alternative PE program focused on endurance activities Showed Carla how to do hard things and believe in herself [00:30:00] 2. Phil Greenberg: The Strategic Thinking Mentor PhD advisor in immunology at University of Washington Early pioneer in T-cell immunotherapy for cancer research Very hands-off mentor. Forced Carla to think independently The game-changer: Pushed on the quality of her thinking, not just productivity Would challenge: "Why are you doing that experiment? What's most valuable to learn?" [00:37:20] The Million-Dollar Question Working with entrepreneur who wanted to sell company for specific valuation Client stopped mid-conversation: "I need to raise my prices immediately" That one insight contributed to over $1 million in company value [00:41:40] The Ripple Effect Philosophy Not just about what leaders need to DO, but WHO is around them Both mentors arrived at exactly the right moments in Carla's development Physical endurance (Fran) + Strategic thinking (Phil) = Her unique coaching approach Leaders don't have to figure everything out alone. The world's highest performers don't Relationships create impacts that cascade through our entire lives   KEY QUOTES "A lot of times we think we have to have this super linear path to get a place. Mine was linear for a while and then took a major left turn. I think it's great to always just have stories where you can always make pivots in your career." - Carla Fowler "If I could help connect leaders to science and ideas that would help them improve, like their ability to inspire or connect or lead, if I could improve them even just a little bit, the number of people who would be impacted by that and who would get the downstream effect would be many." - Carla Fowler "Part of coaching is having a process that turns the soil. You don't know what it's gonna be and you don't know when it's gonna happen. But sometimes that's what it looks like if you have a good process." - Carla Fowler CONNECT WITH CARLA FOWLER

What if saying yes to significance over money could unlock a decade of impact and lead you to build the business you were always meant to create? In this episode, Steve Caton, founder of Altezza Solutions and fractional sales expert, shares his remarkable journey from rejecting his banker father's career path to becoming a champion for trapped founders. Through four pivotal relationships, each arriving at exactly the right moment, Steve learned the art of relational sales, the discipline of the sales process, the courage to choose significance, and the confidence to finally launch his own company. His mission? Freeing brilliant founders from the sales trap so they can lead their vision while spending more time at the dinner table with their families. Steve reflects on how the right mentors at the right time shaped his career and why he believes the fractional sales model is a game-changer for emerging growth companies stuck between $1-5 million in revenue.   [00:06:00] What Altezza Does Altezza = Italian word for "altitude" (inspired by Colorado living) Provides fractional sales expertise AND execution Frees brilliant founders trapped doing sales instead of leading their vision Allows business owners to focus on what truly matters: building their extraordinary future [00:06:40] The Sales Trap is Real Emerging growth businesses started by visionary innovators Founders know they need to stop selling but don't have the framework Can't attract top-tier salespeople without proper sales infrastructure Hiring inexperienced or commission-only reps almost always fails [00:08:20] The Innovator's Journey Steve discovered he's wired as an innovator and starter Thrives in early-stage growth companies ($1-5M revenue range) Gets restless when companies become routine without innovation Spent career helping companies bring in their first real salesperson [00:11:00] The COVID Pivot Waited until last son graduated college to start the business Launched during COVID pandemic, initially seemed like bad timing Actually worked in their favor: remote work became normalized Altezza operates 100% remotely, selling remotely [00:12:00] The Sweet Spot Client Professional services or technology firms $1-5 million in revenue range Founder still trapped in the sales motion Highly relational, consultative sales needed Can sell remotely without boots-on-the-ground [00:13:00] Three Service Models Do It Yourself: Client has sales infrastructure, just needs the right salesperson Done With You: Some documentation exists, needs tweaking and 90-day support Done For You: Everything lives in founder's head, must extract, document, and build systems [00:14:40] Beyond the Numbers Stories of 40% sales increases and doubled revenue matter But the real win: founders getting home for dinner more often Client's wife thanked their salesperson: "My husband is home for dinner way more" Freedom founders dreamed of when starting their business [00:17:40] Four Pivotal People [00:18:40] 1. His Dad: The Passion Banking and finance background Ton of passion, drive, fire, and energy Steve internalized that drive but knew banking wasn't his path Couldn't envision putting on a suit and tie every day [00:19:23] 2. David: The Relational Sales Master Left high-paying pharmaceutical job to start real estate company Invited Steve to get real estate license and sell with him 10 years older, taught Steve everything about relationship-driven sales How to build rapport, ask open-ended questions, and shut up and listen Made way more money in real estate than he would have in banking [00:22:11] 3. Doug Sherman: The Process Guru Held record for highest math score on Air Force Academy entrance exam Sales consultant for companies like Boeing Helped Boeing overcome getting "their butt kicked by Airbus" Game changer: Taught Steve about sales PROCESS for the first time [00:25:24] 4. Jerry Melek: The Significance Prophet Grandfather of kid on Steve's son's football team Career counselor and recruiter with strong faith Steve at crossroads: high-paying jobs vs. low-paying significant opportunity Jerry's challenge: "You told me you wanted significance. This is black and white. Which job is about significance? If you care about significance and not money, this is a no-brainer." Hit Steve right between the eyes, he was too fearful to do what he felt led to do [00:29:00] 5. Don Martin: The Business Leadership Mentor Former Century 21 executive team member Gave Steve the tools to actually LEAD a company and be a business owner Helped Steve see he wasn't launching Altezza because of fear "God created you for this moment: see it, own it, have faith, take the step" Still there for challenges, rough days, pep talks, and "kicks in the ass" [00:31:40] The Ripple Effect Moment Leaving the company Jerry helped him join Spontaneous going away party with his team One by one shared the impact Steve had on them Gave him caricature with signatures and encouragement [00:34:49] The "Go With Others" Glass Gift from team member at that farewell gathering Reminder of ripple effects Steve won't get to see Still uses it 9 years later: an anchor to that meaningful season Physical reminder of choosing significance over salary KEY QUOTES "We don't get wherever we are in life by ourselves. It's always with the help that we get from other people we intersect with on the journey along the way." - Steve Caton "When a company got to a certain size, I started getting super restless because God wired me as an innovator and a starter. When you put me in an early stage growth company, I'm thriving. As soon as it starts to feel routine, I get bored." - Steve Caton CONNECT WITH STEVE CATON

What if the right relationships at the right time positioned you at the forefront of every major technology revolution for 25 years? In this episode, Peter Swain, international speaker, bestselling author, and AI enablement advocate, shares his extraordinary journey from coding at age six to being at the epicenter of three major tech paradigm shifts — the web, mobile, and now AI. Through chance encounters with Tim Berners-Lee (inventor of HTML and the World Wide Web), working directly with Steve Jobs, and saying "yes" to countless opportunities, Peter has built a career helping entrepreneurs leverage AI to work half the time while earning twice as much. Peter reflects on how relationships and serendipitous moments shaped his path and why he believes AI is more transformative than if aliens landed tomorrow.   [00:04:02] The Six-Year-Old Coder Started coding in 1983 at age six on a Spectrum ZX 80 Beta testing for Microsoft at age 12 Met Tim Berners-Lee at 17 (inventor of HTML and the World Wide Web) Quit high school to become one of the first web developers in the world [00:06:00] Three Technology Paradigm Shifts Built UK version of Yelp before Internet Explorer launched Mid-2000s: Bought first iPhone, closed web business—"This smells the same" Started first mobile agency in Europe, worked with McDonald's, BBC, Microsoft, Apple, Google 2023: Downloaded ChatGPT beta, immediately rolled up current business [00:08:20] Understanding AI: Beyond the Noise Four groups: technical experts, futurists, doomsayers, and prompt sellers Peter's philosophy: "Integrated Living"—AI amplifies human capabilities The power of "and" versus "or"—great family AND business AND health [00:12:20] Why Social Media and Bitcoin Weren't the Same Social media: Puts people in silos and echo chambers Bitcoin: "Most awesome solution waiting for a problem" AI is fundamentally different: A new form of intelligence More impactful than if aliens landed tomorrow [00:16:20] Communication, Not Technical Skill Most people give AI 10-word instructions Would you hand your business to someone with 10 words? AI is coded to be people-pleasing—always says "yes" without context [00:18:00] The Business Handoff Analogy Imagine asking someone to run your business for three weeks with just office keys They'd keep it afloat but create chaos without proper context Same thing happens when you give AI insufficient information [00:20:20] The Critical Test Ask AI: "What did you need to know to do this well?" AI will list 28+ things you didn't provide Instructions should be around 1,000 words Less produces "looks great but is secretly terrible" results [00:23:40] Million-Dollar Relationships: Too Many to Choose Dad gave first computer and introduced him to Tim Berners-Lee Philippe Trush taught discipline and diligence Tom Bell gave first job with no qualifications "Nobody is self-made" [00:25:20] The Series of Unlikely Events Recent deal traced back through networking chain Tony Robbins ticket → networking group → presentation opportunity → major deal Can't predict going forward, only track backward [00:27:00] The Power of Saying Yes "The right advice at the wrong time is still the wrong advice" Until you know your place and purpose, say YES to everything Universe consistently offers gifts we're too busy to see After finding your North Star, THEN start saying no [00:31:40] The Most Aligned He's Ever Felt Everything before was leading to AI Web and mobile: Tools to help humans work better AI's promise: It will do it FOR you Fundamental shift in everything—relationships, health, spirituality [00:34:00] Why Entrepreneurs, Not Big Business Most entrepreneurs are great at their craft but terrible at business AI as the leveler: Handles operations so you can focus on genius Margins can go from 20% to 80-90% [00:38:20] Free Mastermind Offer Weekly calls every Thursday for three years 250 members helping people earn twice as much in half the time peterswain.com/mastermind KEY QUOTES "The right advice at the wrong time is still the wrong advice. Until you know why you are on this planet, say yes to as many things as possible. If it's not gonna kill you and it's not addictive, you should say yes." - Peter Swain "AI is more impactful than if aliens landed tomorrow. This is a new form of intelligence that doesn't need to sleep, eat, rest, or have water." - Peter Swain "An instruction to AI should be around a thousand words. Anything less, you're probably gonna get something that looks great, but is secretly terrible." - Peter Swain "Nobody is self-made. We are all built on the shoulders of great men and women. That doesn't make your achievements any less. It just allows you to honor what's happened." - Peter Swain CONNECT WITH PETER SWAIN

What if your father's unconventional advice became the foundation for a 30-year career performing for millions? In this episode, Chad Jeffers, guitarist for Carrie Underwood and luxury real estate agent, shares his extraordinary journey from a family band in East Tennessee to performing on the world's biggest stages. Through his father's counterintuitive guidance and a creative introduction to bestselling author Dan Miller, Chad has built a career touring with Kenny Loggins, Keith Urban, and Carrie Underwood for 18 years — while also launching a speaking career, teaching at Belmont University, and creating the "Be Performance Ready" movement. Chad reflects on the relationships that shaped his unconventional path and continues to fuel his mission to help entrepreneurs show up as their best selves in high-pressure moments.   [00:04:00] Who Is Chad Jeffers? 18 years as guitarist for Carrie Underwood, previously with Kenny Loggins and Keith Urban 30 years as a professional musician Luxury real estate agent specializing in music and entertainment industry clients [00:07:00] The "Be Performance Ready" Movement Applying musician performance techniques to business meetings The psychology of "show clothes" and how they trigger performance mindset One less thing to worry about when you know you look good [00:12:20] Million-Dollar Relationship #1: His Father "Don't ever get a job with benefits if you want to do music" "You've gotta go to Nashville and become part of the fabric of the community" Created a family band that launched three professional music careers Attended all 47 Grand Ole Opry performances with Pinmonkey [00:15:20] Following the Unconventional Path Attended Belmont University to learn the business side of music Built relationships throughout university that lasted decades "The whole generation comes up together" in the music industry [00:18:40] Million-Dollar Relationship #2: Dan Miller Creative introduction: bought a 3/4 size guitar with note "you haven't heard my tune yet" Had it couriered to his house Dan's response: "Best introduction I've ever seen" [00:20:00] The Three-Hour Mexican Lunch Dan suggested: "I think you should write a book" Share experiences to help others navigate the music industry [00:21:20] From Book to Speaking Career Wrote "25 Notes for the Successful Musician" in 2008 Book opened doors to speaking and teaching at Belmont University Created "Be Performance Ready" course as an extension [00:22:40] Dan Miller's Champion Role From 2007 until his passing in 2024 Constant encouragement and validation Always available for advice and support [00:24:40] The Speaking Career Launch Dan invited Chad to speak at his workshop Kent Julian (in the audience) taught Chad the business of speaking Both book and speaking career started with Dan's support [00:26:20] Current Speaking Focus Heavy focus on speaking at universities Believes skills impact students beyond stage—for entire life KEY QUOTES "If you want to do music, you've gotta go to where it's at. They're not gonna be calling you. You've gotta go down to Nashville and become a part of the fabric of the community." - Chad's father "I think you should write a book. Write about all of your experiences and share that with people so it may help them." - Dan Miller's advice "Relationships are absolutely the cornerstone of everything that I do. Whether it's music or real estate or personal, it definitely all starts with the relationships." - Chad Jeffers CONNECT WITH CHAD JEFFERS

What if your greatest suffering became the foundation for healing thousands of others? In this episode, Mike Dannheim, founder of Sensie, shares his extraordinary journey from a traumatic brain injury and suicide attempt at 19 to leading a groundbreaking wellness technology company. Through his experience with addiction recovery, meditation, and cutting-edge neuroscience, Mike has created a platform that predicts stress before it becomes a problem and generates measurable biopsychological resilience. Mike reflects on the mentors and relationships that saved his life, shaped his path, and continue to fuel his mission to help people connect more deeply with their body's intelligence.   [00:03:54] What Is Sensie? Predicting stress before it's a problem and generating wellness Using smartphone sensors to assess micro movements in gestures Identifying sources of stress and providing precise techniques to alleviate them Breakthrough: measurable biopsychological resilience [00:05:03] The Birth of Two Passions Leading consumer technology companies for 15 years Personal healing work and 21 years of sobriety Helping everyone from people with addiction to CEOs and professional athletes Wellness-based coaching rooted in recovery principles [00:06:00] The Car Accident That Changed Everything Traumatic brain injury at age 19 Out-of-body experience watching himself at the accident scene Retrograde amnesia: not knowing who he was or where he was Struggling with short-term memory recall and feeling like he was in hell Trying to take his own life at 19 [00:07:40] The Meditation Miracle Four to six months of meditation bringing his brain back Memory returning and life taking off Leading a $16 billion IPO and living around the world Life becoming "beyond my wildest dreams" Mainstream medicine in 2002 not understanding neuroplasticity Doctors believing he wouldn't recover Deep dive into neuroscience, consciousness studies, and Eastern spirituality [00:08:26] The Power of Movement and Meditation Witnessing impact on hundreds of people's lives Techniques that compress 10 years of therapy into one session Transforming suffering into intelligence and wisdom Helping people show up more present in their lives [00:11:26] Million-Dollar Relationships: Martin The man who taught Mike meditation and saved his life Going back seven years later to thank him [00:12:00] Alessandro Anastacia: The First Believer First investor in Sensie, met in Tokyo during Groupon expansion Speaks five languages, sometimes all in one sentence Lives by Ubuntu philosophy: "For us, by us" Invested before any R&D, just to support two friends with good hearts [00:13:40] Satya Raja: The Leadership Guide Vince Covino's partner and partner in Sensie Integrating enlightened leadership for over 30 years Found Mike in a really hard place, frustrated with support levels Helped Mike see himself and clean up his own energy [00:16:01] The Life-Saving Impact Getting emotional reflecting on the question Helping a man who was trying to take his life Using techniques learned from Satya and others The man is now a close friend with four kids and a thriving art business in Miami [00:19:00] Kevin's Story: Losing His Father Diagnosed with cancer at the beginning of ninth grade Passing at the end of 10th grade after a year and a half Not a word left unsaid between father and son The uncle who became a father figure and passed away in February The surprise family reunion with his last remaining aunt The power of honoring those still with us [00:24:21] Final Reflection: The Body's Intelligence Research field called Interoception: neuromechanics of inner awareness Deeper connection to inner environment improves life across all domains Trust levels, friendships, contentment, fulfillment, even financial success Dr. John Coates' research: traders who could self-assess heartbeat had higher profitability The more we help each other connect to our body's intelligence, the better life gets   KEY QUOTES "He invested in our company before we had done any R&D. He just wanted to support two friends. He didn't care, and put any pressure on us. He was just like, I know you guys have good hearts. Here's the money. Go do the research." - Mike Dannheim on Alessandro "Grief is unexpressed love. May we not leave this funeral with any unexpressed love." - Satya Raja's message that Mike shared with his family "By being able to grieve the death of my mother, I can still feel her in my heart. She's never left. She's here loving you, me, right now." - Mike Dannheim "Instead of having to go through 10 years of therapy, you can get it in one session. There's very well researched techniques that can help alleviate suffering so it can become intelligence and wisdom." - Mike Dannheim "The more we can help each other connect more deeply to our body's intelligence, the better this life gets." - Mike Dannheim   CONNECT WITH MIKE DANNHEIM

What if the biggest barrier to your success isn't lack of opportunity, but the insecurity holding you back from showing up? In this episode, David Ask shares his remarkable journey from a small-town Minnesota vocal major to a successful entrepreneur with products in 3,700+ retail stores including Home Depot and Lowe's. Through his thermostat guard invention and his work as an author and vocalist, David reveals how the power of authentic relationships, especially through the Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind, transformed not just his business, but every area of his life. David reflects on overcoming crippling insecurity, the mentors who saw his potential before he did, and why "just showing up" as your authentic self is the real superpower in business and life.   [00:02:22] Meet David Ask Kevin introduces David to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast Shout-out to Juliana Starky for the connection The power of right relationships opening doors [00:06:13] The Music Revelation Discovering music wasn't about the craft, it was about connection Using music as a tool to help people look within and "look up" Why a vocal major who rarely goes to concerts or buys records makes perfect sense [00:10:20] The Thermostat Guard Story A brother-in-law's phone call that changed everything Working in real estate group for Verizon overseeing five states and 75 stores Identifying a pain point: thermostat guards with keys people kept losing Learning injection molding, overseas manufacturing, and supply chain management from scratch [00:13:20] The Power of Revealing Others' Riches Benjamin Disraeli's quote that defines David's mission Loving to see the uniqueness and strengths in others Meeting Dr. Andy Garra (Carl's Jr. founder's grandson) in mastermind [00:16:29] Overcoming Insecurity Suffering with insecurity his whole life Thinking success was for people with "the Midas touch" How insecurity almost prevented him from joining Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind [00:20:21] Million-Dollar Relationships: Aaron Walker The founder of Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind who changed David's trajectory Hearing about ISI for years but being too insecure to join Getting invited to do music at their annual event in Smithville, Tennessee [00:25:20] The Music Mission Revealed David Ash's observation: "You don't sing because you like music" Pointing out that David rarely goes to concerts or buys records The truth: "You do music because you want to inspire people" Shifting from being "a musician" to being "on mission" [00:26:25] Guardians of Grit for Fathers and Sons Writing a book with Juliana Starky about identity Helping fathers identify their own powerful, unique qualities Equipping them to specifically call forth those qualities in their sons Moving beyond generic advice like "be nice and work hard" [00:28:31] The Power of Showing Up David's challenge: Can you share an example of impact that wouldn't have happened without these relationships? The answer: Swinging for the fence, sending his song to President Trump Thinking "Why can't I sing at the White House?" Performing at places requiring non-disclosure agreements Launching the new Lockbox Pro for the professional contractor market [00:30:20] The Prison Ministry Story Former pastor inviting David to sing at a prison ice cream social Battling fear about going into the prison Meeting a sophisticated man in a jumpsuit, staring into nothingness [00:31:40] "I Think I'm Gonna Kill Myself Tonight" The inmate's matter-of-fact confession David's uncertainty about what to say Deciding to sing Nessun Dorma (Pavarotti's famous aria) [00:33:20] The Power of Music and Presence Explaining the aria makes something "rise up" in him The inmate standing in the back, alone Finishing the song to see him smiling ear to ear with tears streaming [00:37:14] Final Reflections Kevin's two-pronged mission for the podcast Giving guests a chance to honor those who impacted them Inspiring entrepreneurs to create meaningful, profitable relationships Gratitude for David's authentic sharing   KEY QUOTES "The greatest good you can do for another is not to share with him your riches, but to reveal to him his own." - Benjamin Disraeli (David's guiding principle) "I suffered with such insecurity my whole life and I just thought success was for those who had the Midas touch." - David Ask "You don't sing because you like music. You do music because you want to inspire people." - David Ash to David Ask "The times when I've had the biggest impact is when David Ask gets out of the way and doesn't have some weird agenda and just shows up." - David Ask "I think authenticity is the new superpower. We think we have to achieve an identity or achieve status, but the opposite is true — showing up with a generous heart, with curiosity and wonder, and just being yourself." - David Ask   CONNECT WITH DAVID ASK

What if the key to business growth wasn't just strategy, but building trust at every level? In this episode, Geoffrey Toffetti, CEO of Frontline Performance Group (FPG), shares his journey from starting as a hotel valet to leading the world's top company in frontline sales performance for hospitality. With 30 years of proven results and partnerships with global hotel giants like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Radisson, and IHG, FPG empowers frontline teams to maximize revenue, improve guest experiences, and drive employee engagement, all through its innovative IN-Gauge SaaS platform. Geoffrey reflects on pivotal mentors, lessons from scaling companies, and why trust is the cornerstone of leadership and culture.   [00:02:15] Meet Geoffrey Toffetti Kevin introduces Geoffrey to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast Shout-out to Claire and Quoted for the connection Geoffrey explains FPG's mission to empower hospitality frontline teams [00:05:00] From Valet to Executive Leadership Starting out parking cars at TradeWinds Resort in Florida Moving into management roles before joining a dot-com startup in 2000 Surviving the dot-com bubble and rising to VP of Strategic Solutions [00:07:00] Joining FPG Meeting founder Ziad Khoury after six months of conversations Leaving a billion-dollar company for a sub-$10M firm with high potential Why empowering people to generate revenue was more inspiring than cost-cutting [00:09:10] Expanding into Hospitality FPG's origins in the automotive industry How Geoffrey's hotel background guided expansion into hospitality Scaling to serve more than 2,500 hotels worldwide [00:13:27] Million-Dollar Relationships The pivotal role of Ziad Khoury in Geoffrey's journey Trusting Geoffrey with leadership and appointing him CEO during COVID How Ziad's generosity and mentorship transformed FPG's future [00:15:02] Influential Mentors Coach Matt Hedrick: lessons on leadership and culture from football Harold Mills, CEO of ZeroChaos: strategic mentorship in sales and contracts How diverse mentors shaped Geoffrey's leadership philosophy [00:18:46] Paying It Forward Stories of hiring and empowering talent during challenging times Transformations that reshaped both individuals and the business Why building people is key to sustainable success [00:22:00] Leading with Trust Why leaders must give trust first instead of demanding it be earned How trust shaped FPG's resilience through COVID pay cuts with no turnover The dangers of leading without openness or respect [00:24:30] Building a Strong Culture FPG as a “tribe” rooted in ethics, values, and trust Why cultural violations, not mistakes, are deal-breakers How trust-driven culture fosters resilience, innovation, and loyalty [00:32:14] FPG's Global Impact Overview of FPG's IN-Gauge SaaS platform Equipping frontline managers with performance analytics, training, and incentives How FPG sustains its leadership after 30 years in the industry [00:34:00] Final Reflections Why leading with trust transforms both relationships and business The role of vulnerability and openness in effective leadership Geoffrey's advice: “Lead with trust, you can't go wrong.”   KEY QUOTES “Leaders must give trust first. It's yours to lose.” - Geoffrey Toffetti “Culture built on trust creates resilience, even in the hardest times.” - Geoffrey Toffetti “What FPG does isn't about squeezing nickels, it's about inspiring people to generate revenue.” - Geoffrey Toffetti CONNECT WITH GEOFFREY TOFFETTI

What if building a multimillion-dollar brand wasn't just about innovation, but about listening, legacy, and empowering confidence in women? In this episode, Eve DeMartine, founder and CEO of Popilush Shapewear, shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Malaysia to leading one of the fastest-growing shapewear brands in the world. With over $100 million in growth sales, Eve has redefined what shapewear can be by blending comfort, inclusivity, and style, all while staying true to her mission of helping women feel confident in every moment of life. Eve reflects on her entrepreneurial path, how viral growth transformed her company overnight, and the invaluable relationships that shaped her resilience and success.   [00:02:26] Meet Eve DeMartine Kevin introduces Eve to the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast How her assistant Amanda connected her to the show Eve introduces Popilush and its mission to empower women [00:05:34] From Motherhood Struggles to Inspiration Postpartum body changes after twins sparked the idea for Popilush Creating shapewear that is comfortable, stylish, and inclusive Turning personal struggles into a brand that supports women everywhere [00:06:46] The Viral Breakthrough From slow early sales to an influencer video that went viral $200,000 in sales on Amazon within one week Challenges of scaling quickly and the importance of strong factory partnerships [00:09:40] Listening and Adapting Using customer complaints to improve designs (solving the “walking sound” issue) Conducting face-to-face customer interviews in LA and New York Constantly innovating based on real feedback [00:10:57] Key Lessons from Growth Be prepared before going viral React quickly when opportunities come Value strong partnerships and relentless work ethic [00:13:17] Legacy and Family Values Influence of Eve's great-grandfather and family business in Malaysia Lessons of craftsmanship, trust, and responsibility Why entrepreneurship is about legacy and community impact [00:15:09] Motivation to Create Popilush Frustration with traditional shapewear being bulky and uncomfortable The aha moment that inspired built-in shapewear Mission: enhance women's confidence without changing who they are [00:17:47] Growth and Expansion Hitting $100 million in growth sales by 2024 Popilush products featured at Nordstrom Opening the first Las Vegas outlet store [00:19:22] Final Reflections Eve's journey from Macy's cosmetic counter to global entrepreneur Advice: trust your instincts, take baby steps, and keep moving Why entrepreneurship is about impact, not just profit   KEY QUOTES “Don't wait until you're ready, just go for it. You'll grow in the process.” - Eve DeMartine “Entrepreneurship isn't just about money. It's about legacy, impact, and responsibility.” - Eve DeMartine “Our goal is simple: make women feel comfortable, confident, and proud in what they wear.” - Eve DeMartine CONNECT WITH EVE DEMARTINE

What if the key to transforming an entire industry wasn't just innovation, but genuine care for people and their experiences? In this episode, Landon Wimmer, visionary CEO and Owner of Empower Home, shares his journey from selling door-to-door to building a trusted solar energy company that is redefining customer care in the renewable energy space. With over a decade in the solar industry, Landon has pioneered a “whole home” approach that ensures homeowners receive sustainable, affordable, and long-lasting energy solutions. Landon reflects on his entrepreneurial path, the lessons he's learned from relationships that shaped him, and why integrity, service, and mentorship remain at the core of his mission.   [00:02:19] Meet Landon Wimmer Kevin introduces Landon to the show Landon's gratitude and excitement for the opportunity Why caring about customers and integrity drive his business [00:06:13] From Sales Struggles to Finding Purpose Starting in door-to-door sales in 2006 Early challenges and learning how to connect with people Discovering his sales breakthrough by focusing on relationships [00:09:39] Entering the Solar Industry Moving into solar sales in 2012 The $800 utility bill that revealed solar's impact Realizing solar could change both finances and the environment [00:12:05] Founding Empower Home Leaving large companies to start his own firm in 2019 Running the business from his garage in the early days Taking ownership of the entire customer experience [00:15:18] A Whole Home Approach Why roofing and HVAC matter in solar installations Expanding beyond “just solar” to full home energy solutions Creating lasting value by solving bigger challenges [00:18:54] Navigating Industry Challenges Why over 100 solar companies failed in California Empower Home's focus on sustainability and long-term care Expanding services into HVAC and roofing for resilience [00:20:38] Relationships that Shaped the Journey Landon's first mentor from a window-washing job at 15 Early lessons in customer service and entrepreneurship The role of mentorship in shaping his leadership style [00:27:09] Paying It Forward Mentoring new sales reps and teaching them success principles Story of a cashier who became a six-figure solar salesperson Why teaching and mentorship matter for legacy [00:31:43] Closing Reflections Why entrepreneurship is really about valuing time and service How relationships shape both business and personal growth Landon's passion for empowering homes and people Key Quotes “Integrity and character matter more than anything else. That's how we run Empower Home.” - Landon Wimmer “The moment I saw an $800 utility bill, I knew solar could change lives.” - Landon Wimmer “Relationships are everything. They shaped who I am and how I do business.” - Landon Wimmer Connect with Landon Wimmer LinkedIn Empower Home Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

What if the future of digital advertising wasn't just about scale and reach, but about trust, transparency, and relationships? In this episode, Matt Wasserlauf, three-time founder, two-time successful exit entrepreneur, author, and now CEO of Blockboard, shares his remarkable journey from pioneering online video ads 25 years ago to leading the charge against $120 billion in digital ad fraud today. Known as the “first guy to put TV commercials on the web,” Matt is revolutionizing ad tech by leveraging blockchain to bring accountability and transparency back to digital media. Matt opens up about the pivotal relationships that shaped his career, from mentors who gave him his first big break to co-founders who helped him innovate at scale. He reflects on lessons learned in building companies, the value of mentorship, and how trust and collaboration fuel not just business, but entire industries.   [00:02:23] Meet Matt Wasserlauf Matt's background in TV and transition into digital media Becoming the first to put TV commercials on the web The vision behind Blockboard and fixing ad fraud [00:05:42] The $120 Billion Problem How ad fraud became one of the world's biggest fraud rings Why it's largely unpoliced and misunderstood Pepsi's insights that validated the size of the problem [00:07:33] How Ad Fraud Works The rise of bot farms in places like Iceland and Russia Mimicking platforms like Peacock to trick advertisers How Coca-Cola and other brands unknowingly waste millions [00:11:00] Spotting the Warning Signs Why most agencies don't tell clients about fraud The importance of transparency and hard results How direct response marketers became Blockboard's biggest customers [00:14:20] Relationships that Changed Everything How Jim DePalma gave Matt his first shot at CBS The mentorship that shaped his entrepreneurial path Meeting Tarun Yadav and 20 years of innovation together [00:19:00] Building Measurement & Innovation Launching the first video measurement platform (Ndio) Why Procter & Gamble's first streaming ad dollars were a turning point Innovating from early online video to blockchain verification [00:21:37] Blockchain and Beating the Bots How Ethereum smart contracts power Blockboard Pre-verifying ad calls in 33 milliseconds Delivering real ads to real humans at scale [00:26:34] Closing Reflections Why it's the best time to be an entrepreneur The importance of building trust and networks Matt's invitation to fellow entrepreneurs to share notes and innovate together Key Quotes “There's $120 billion in digital ad fraud, and blockchain gives us the ability to stop it ” - Matt Wasserlauf “Don't worry about raising money. Just go sell. That advice changed my life”  - Matt Wasserlauf “Relationships and mentorship have shaped every step of my entrepreneurial journey" - Matt Wasserlauf Connect with Matt Wasserlauf Facebook LinkedIn Blockboard Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

What if the key to building one of America's fastest-growing companies wasn't just hard work, but the right relationships at the right time? In this episode, Tyler Dunagin, founder and CEO of Turnserv, shares his extraordinary journey from flipping single-family homes to leading a platform revolutionizing the multifamily housing industry. Ranked in the top 500 on the Inc. 5,000 list, Turnserv now manages turnovers for hundreds of apartments each month and continues to scale at rapid speed. Tyler opens up about the pivotal relationships that changed his life, the mentors who shaped his path, and the lessons he's learned navigating growth, private equity, and leadership. Beyond his ventures — which include brands like “ApartmentPainters.com , LiquidLiner.com , and ApartmentFlooring.com”.  Tyler is passionate about family, classic cars, and cultivating networks that fuel growth and impact.   [00:02:20] Meet Tyler Dunagin Tyler's background and early career in flipping houses. The vision behind Turnserv and solving turnover challenges. Expanding into multiple service brands. [00:05:40] Scaling at Speed Turning over 500+ apartments a month. How Turnserv partners with major property managers. Why speed, scale, and quality rarely exist together in property management. [00:10:20] Relationships that Changed Everything How a cold email opened the door to multifamily housing. Mentorship from industry leaders that reshaped his career. The impact of support from private equity advisors. [00:14:00] Lessons from Mentorship The importance of patience, persistence, and learning fast. Why investors who act as advisors create exponential value. How key conversations shifted Tyler's business trajectory. [00:19:00] Aha Moments and Growth Realizing the scale of Turnserv's impact. Celebrating small wins and the team's contributions. Building systems and leadership that drive scalability. [00:22:30] The Power of Networks Why relationships compound business growth. How proximity to leaders accelerates learning. The value of surrounding yourself with people who care. [00:24:20] Closing Reflections People, not companies, drive success. Why cultivating meaningful relationships is the ultimate growth strategy. Tyler's personal passions: family, sports, and classic cars. Key Quotes “There's a magical power in having a good network and cultivating it all the time.” — Tyler Dunagin “When you think about everyone's contributions that led to success, you realize the magnitude of effort that compounds when you work together.” — Tyler Dunagin “People run companies. Companies don't run themselves.” — Tyler Dunagin Connect with Tyler Dunagin Facebook LinkedIn Turnserv Dunagin Collective   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

What if your greatest professional success wasn't just about the money raised, but about the lives changed and the relationships built along the way? In this episode, Jeff Kruszyna — an award-winning direct response strategist, fundraiser, and copywriter, shares his journey from a New York college student inspired by 9/11 to raising over a quarter of a billion dollars for Republican campaigns, conservative advocacy organizations, veteran support groups, and Christian charities. With more than 20 years of experience, Jeff has been recognized with industry honors including the AAPC “40 Under 40 Award,” Peer Choice All Star Awards, and multiple POLLIE and MAXI Awards. He opens up about the mentors who shaped his career, the family influences that grounded his values, and the early campaign that confirmed his calling to make an impact through fundraising. Today, as co-founder of JMK Victory, Jeff continues to serve causes he believes in while staying rooted in faith, family, and community.   [00:02:18] Meet Jeff Kruszyna How Jeff's last name is pronounced (“Kru-shin-a”). The introduction through Kurt & Kristen Luidhardt that changed everything. Early shoutout to Liberty Spenders podcast. [00:05:27] Jeff's Backstory Growing up in Southampton, New York. The impact of 9/11 during his first semester of college. Switching majors from computer science to political science. Discovering conservative activism and direct response fundraising. [00:07:13] Building a Fundraising Career 20 years in direct response and nonprofit fundraising. Partnering with Joel Bogger to launch JMK Victory. Raising over $250 million for campaigns, causes, and Christian charities. [00:10:07] Relationships that Changed Everything Honoring his grandfather, a Polish WWII veteran and immigrant. Lessons of hard work, resilience, and entrepreneurship. Passing on his grandfather's legacy to his son. [00:13:31] Mentors in the Industry Learning copywriting and creative strategy from Amy Paul. Business-building mentorship from Jamie Hogan. Why staying curious and constantly learning is critical. [00:16:32] Impactful Campaigns Early work supporting two imprisoned border patrol agents. A Father's Day appeal that made a national impact. Receiving a handwritten letter from one of the agents that confirmed his calling. [00:19:12] Reflections and Purpose Knowing he was in the right place, with the right people, for the right reasons. The power of relationships in attracting the right opportunities. [00:20:25] Connect with Jeff Website: jmkvictory.com Social media links (Facebook, LinkedIn, X). [00:20:58] Closing Thoughts Gratitude for relationships built through introductions. Why his mission is not only raising funds but advancing God's Kingdom. Key Quotes “His work ethic and blue-collar values continue to shape my life and career.” — Jeff Kruszyna “Always be curious, always be learning. Never get stuck thinking you already know it all.” — Jeff Kruszyna “With God by our side and organizations such as yours, we will persevere and get through this tough season.” — Border Patrol Agent (inspired Jeff early in his career) Connect with Jeff Kruszyna Facebook LinkedIn Website   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

What if your life's mission wasn't just about career success, but about teaching others how to love, lead, and transform? In this episode, Marcia Martin, one of the most prolific influencers of thought leadership in the last 40 years, shares her extraordinary journey as a pioneer of the human potential movement, Vice President of Erhard Seminars Training (est), and renowned transformational trainer and executive coach. Recognized worldwide for her work in transformational leadership, relationship coaching, communication training, and public speaking, Marcia has trained over 300,000 people in more than 20 countries. Her clients include Capital One, Warner Bros., InterContinental Hotels, American Cancer Society, Chase Bank, Allianz, McCain Foods, Evian Water, Danone Group, and Hard Rock International. From building est into a movement with millions of graduates to consulting for transformational leaders like Tony Robbins, Jack Canfield, and LifeSpring to managing the film shoot of The Secret – Law of Attraction, Marcia's story is one of influence, mentorship, and lasting impact. Knighted in 2012 by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem for her humanitarian contributions, Dame Marcia Martin continues to inspire leaders across the globe.   [00:02:25] Meet Marcia Martin Marcia's background in transformation and coaching. Her role in co-founding est and growing it from 30 people to millions worldwide. Becoming known as the “Godmother of Transformation.” [00:06:40] Mentors and Influences Learning from Werner Erhard, Buckminster Fuller, Jerry Weintraub, and others. How mentorship shaped her journey. Why she prioritizes mentoring future leaders. [00:10:15] Relationships that Changed Everything The profound impact of her aunt, Werner Erhard, and Buckminster Fuller. Why mentorship has been the cornerstone of her life and career. [00:14:58] Commitment and Breakthrough Goals Lessons from Werner on persistence and results. The “commitment game” — making breakthrough goals that stretch who you are. A powerful story of perseverance that led Marcia to sell encyclopedias even after being arrested — and still hitting her goal. [00:22:25] Mindset and Perspective How perspective shapes reality. Why abundance and scarcity coexist like the “old woman/young woman” optical illusion. Learning to manage the mind instead of letting it run wild. [00:27:40] Managing the Mind Why our minds are like unruly teenagers. Choosing empowering thoughts over self-limiting beliefs. Training yourself to create the results you want. [00:29:20] Marcia's New Book Sex, Power, and Transformation: The Untold Story of est and the Human Potential Movement. How est went from a 30-person seminar to millions of graduates worldwide. Her memoir of resilience, transformation, and rising from adversity. Key Quotes “My life's work is having your life work better.” — Marcia Martin “You either have a result or you have the reason you don't have the result. What kind of person are you?” — Marcia Martin “I don't need to be followed. I want to create people who can lead.” — Marcia Martin Connect with Marcia Martin Facebook LinkedIn Website   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

What if you could build a profitable, lifestyle-driven Amazon business that could eventually sell for millions, even without prior e-commerce experience? In this episode, Neil Twa, CEO and Co-Founder of Voltage Holdings, opens up about his 17-year journey of building, launching, and acquiring e-commerce brands. After leaving a senior role at IBM, Neil became an early pioneer on Amazon, creating multiple FBA brands, generating tens of millions in revenue, and helping more than 1,000 entrepreneurs through consulting, coaching, and mentoring. Neil shares how Voltage has grown to 12+ in-house brands and 40+ client brands, why they recently closed a $12M acquisition, and the systems that allow him to scale businesses without traditional employees. He also explains Voltage's proprietary “green light process” for validating products and how partnerships and timing often matter more than resources. Together with his business partner Reed Larsen, Neil co-authored the book Almost-Automated Income with FBA, a #1 new release that provides a step-by-step guide to building and exiting a profitable Amazon business. This conversation dives into resilience, priorities, and creating businesses that provide both freedom and lasting value. [00:02:29] Catching Up with Neil Returning as the podcast's first-ever guest after 3 years. Reflections on 300+ episodes of Million Dollar Relationships. Why relationships multiply opportunities. [00:05:12] What Voltage Does Helping entrepreneurs build 7-figure businesses with physical products. 12+ in-house brands and 40+ client brands. The thrill of building something from nothing. [00:10:08] Scaling and Acquisitions Moving from launch to systemization and scale. Closing a $12M acquisition deal. Growing brands for long-term exits. [00:11:02] From Brands to Software Proprietary platform for product research and brand development. The “green light process” for product validation. Scaling without employees by empowering operators. [00:12:40] Partnerships and Timing Why do the right opportunities show up when you're not looking. Meeting collaborators at the perfect time. Growing through trusted relationships. [00:16:15] Training Operators Instead of Hiring Employees How Neil partners with entrepreneurs as operators Splitting profits instead of salaries Building smarter teams through collaboration [00:20:48] Launching Brands That Last From product validation to brand identity Mistakes most new sellers make Building businesses designed to scale and sell [00:25:30] The Shift Toward Brand Acquisitions Why acquisitions accelerate growth How Neil evaluates acquisition opportunities Building value for long-term exits [00:30:12] Almost-Automated Income with FBA Why Neil and Reed Larsen wrote their book A blueprint for lifestyle-driven e-commerce success Lessons for both new and seasoned entrepreneurs [00:34:55] The Role of Mentorship and Coaching Guiding over 1,000 entrepreneurs Why mentorship accelerates growth Creating impact beyond revenue [00:40:34] Evergreen Power of Physical Products Why physical products outlast trends. Building brands with longevity. Why resilience and due diligence matter. [00:47:07] Final Reflections & Life Principles Neil on being a dad, entrepreneur, and conservative voice. The importance of priorities and imperfect action. Why resilience and perseverance are keys to success. Key Quotes “Your opportunity begins at the end of your excuses.” — Neil Twa “We help entrepreneurs build seven-figure businesses using physical products.” — Neil Twa “Imperfect action beats perfect inaction every time.” — Neil Twa Connect with Neil Twa Voltage DM Get the Free Book — use code MAXRESPONSE Facebook LinkedIn   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher  

What if turning a simple idea into a one-of-a-kind gift for baseball fans could spark a multimillion-dollar business? In this episode, Kris Dehnert, founder of Dehnert Media Group and CEO of Dugout Mugs®, shares lessons from 15 years of entrepreneurship across multiple industries including real estate, apparel, affiliate marketing, and eCommerce. With more than $65 million in online sales and partnerships with some of the biggest names in baseball, Kris reveals the mindset, strategies, and resilience that fueled his journey. From humble beginnings naming his first company after himself to scaling Dugout Mugs® into a brand officially licensed by MLB, MiLB, MLBPA, and the Hall of Fame, Kris's story is one of creativity, grit, and seizing opportunity. Today, he consults with businesses on sales, marketing, and social media while continuing to bet big on ventures and owners with vision. [00:03:39] – $65 Million in Online Sales Breaking down the path to surpassing $65M. The marketing approaches that fueled growth. Balancing consulting with full-scale business building. [00:09:31] – Finding Diamonds in the Rough Spotting visionary owners with scalable ideas. Why Kris sometimes goes “all in” as a partner. How he evaluates whether a business can become a unicorn. [00:13:40] – The Dugout Mugs® Story The origin of the Dugout Mugs® concept. Turning a baseball bat into a mug. Early challenges and breakthroughs. [00:19:00] – Scaling with Licensing Deals How Dugout Mugs® secured official MLB, MiLB, MLBPA, and Hall of Fame partnerships. Recognition from major baseball organizations. Building credibility through licensing. [00:24:18] – Lessons in Leadership and Growth Simplifying operations while scaling. Why consistency beats complexity. Balancing multiple ventures as a founder. [00:29:00] – Mindset Shifts for Entrepreneurs Learning to adapt when plans don't work. Keeping focus in the face of setbacks. The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. [00:34:00] – Giving Back and Mentorship What drives Kris today beyond revenue. Why collaboration and mentorship matter. Helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. [00:38:20] – Advice for Entrepreneurs How to spot the right opportunities. Knowing when to pivot versus when to double down. The role of resilience in long-term success. Key Quotes “My goal is simple: help businesses do what they're doing, better than they are currently doing it.” — Kris Dehnert “Sometimes you find a diamond in the rough, a business with potential and an owner with vision — and in those cases, I go all in.” — Kris Dehnert “Creativity, grit, and resilience are what turn ideas into multimillion-dollar ventures.” — Kris Dehnert  Connect with Kris Dehnert