The Playbook

In today's episode, I sit down with billionaire entrepreneur and Magna International founder Frank Stronach to talk about his journey from arriving in Canada with $200 to building a global automotive empire with 180,000 employees and billions in revenue. Frank shares how profit sharing transformed his business, why treating employees like partners created explosive growth, and how his experiences with poverty, war, communism, and capitalism shaped his worldview. We also talk about economic freedom, the future of entrepreneurship, the importance of purpose later in life, and why he believes stronger middle classes and fair enterprise systems are essential to creating a more civilized society.

In today's episode, I reflect on the lessons my mom taught me simply through the way she lived. After raising six kids on a second grade teacher's salary, she showed me what resilience, humility, kindness, and service really look like. I share stories about growing up in Akron, Ohio, carrying those lessons into my career, and the impact teachers and parents have on shaping lives long after the classroom is gone. From funny moments with my kids and social media to an emotional encounter at LAX with one of my mom's former students, this conversation is about gratitude, legacy, and the people who quietly change the world every single day.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Grant Elliott, founder of Rehab Fix and one of the leading voices in movement-based recovery for chronic back pain. We talk about why lower back pain has become the world's leading disability, and how stress, sleep, mindset, movement, and daily habits all contribute to the problem. Dr. Elliott explains why so many outdated treatment models still dominate modern healthcare, why most people can recover without surgery, and how belief plays a major role in healing. We also discuss scaling an online health business, mentoring providers around the world, and helping people regain confidence after years of chronic pain and discouraging diagnoses.

In this episode, I remind you that ego is the biggest interference between where you are and where you want to be. The ego wants to defend, control, and prove, and that interference keeps you from your potential. I talk about why the simple things matter most, and why the ego fights the mundane. Success isn't built in big moments; it's built in the small things you do every day. I also share why non-negotiable behaviors matter and how aligning your daily actions with your divine direction changes everything. When you stop judging, start discerning, and stay consistent in the simple things, you begin to remove the interference. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Grant Cardone, entrepreneur, real estate investor, bestselling author, and founder of the 10X movement, to talk about turning setbacks into fuel for something bigger. Grant shares how dissatisfaction can become a divine signal to grow, why success often starts before belief catches up, and how he learned to build businesses by doing the math backward from impossible targets. We also talk about time, money, real estate, leverage, social media, and the difference between chasing stages and building a platform that creates lasting relationships, impact, freedom, and a clearer path to becoming everything you are capable of becoming.

In today's episode, I sit down with former NFL players Julius Thomas and Bronson Kaufusi, along with entrepreneur and investor Frank Perdomo, for a conversation about community, faith, fulfillment, and impact. We talk about why culture starts with people, how the Pro Athlete Community helps athletes prepare for life beyond the game, and why success without fulfillment can still leave you empty. Julius shares how obedience shaped his unlikely path from college basketball to the NFL, Bronson opens up about identity after injury, and Frank reflects on the failure that strengthened his faith and changed the way he invests in people.

In today's episode, I share the lesson that came after losing over $100 million, going bankrupt, and realizing money alone would never make me happy. I talk about the calling that changed my life, the wisdom my mom gave me at my lowest point, and why faith is essential when the evidence is contrary to where you want to go. I also break down the three things I believe create real happiness: making a lot of money, helping a lot of people, and having a lot of fun while staying aligned with your potential.

In today's episode, I sit down with Patrice Evra, former Manchester United and France captain, to talk about what it really takes to win at the highest level. We get into the mindset of becoming a “monster” in pursuit of greatness, and the sacrifices that come with it, from family strain to personal loss. Patrice shares how his upbringing shaped his resilience, why he was never driven by money, and how success can come at the cost of connection. We also talk about healing from past trauma, finding purpose after football, and why giving back and staying present now defines his version of happiness.

In today's episode, I sit down with Justine Reiss to share my journey from early financial success to losing over $100 million and rebuilding with a new perspective on faith, values, and purpose. We talk about why sports has always been a backdrop for something bigger, and how learning to love what you don't like about what you love can change everything. I break down the role of gratitude, forgiveness, and accountability in shaping mindset, along with the power of consistent daily practices. We also get into timing, why too soon can be a burden, and how experience becomes your greatest advantage as you grow.

In today's episode, I'm joined by David Abeles, CEO and President of TaylorMade Golf, and Adrian Rietveld, Senior Manager of Tour, to talk about what it really takes to stay at the top for decades. We get into the pressure of leading a dominant brand, why complacency is never an option, and how surrounding yourself with world-class talent changes everything. David shares how culture and values drive sustained success, while Adrian breaks down the importance of understanding individuals at the highest level of competition. We also talk about AI as a cultural shift, not just a tool, and how embracing technology can elevate both performance and people.

In this episode, I share the six non-negotiables that top performers live by. It's not about motivation; it's about how you show up every day. I talk about clarity, devotion, prioritization, accountability, adaptability, and consistency, and why you have to decide in advance how you show up so circumstances don't control your results. When you stay aligned in what you do, say, think, feel, and believe, you build momentum. When you stay consistent, those small actions start to compound. That's how you create real, lasting success. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Ronnie 2K to talk about building influence the right way. He shares how his journey from a passionate gamer to the face of a global franchise came together organically, and why expanding into new ventures is about creating more opportunities to make an impact. We get into the difference between fulfillment and success, the responsibility that comes with a platform, and the darker side of online influence, from trolling to real-world risks. Ronnie also opens up about his upcoming documentary and how his background prepared him to handle both attention and adversity while staying focused on using influence for good.

In today's episode, I sit down with Ben Garland, Ron Cole, and Anthony Tolliver to talk about what legacy really means beyond money. We get into social wealth, community, and why mental health is the foundation that impacts every part of life. We share practical ways to build stronger communication skills in the next generation, from simple habits like making a phone call to embracing AI without losing human connection. I also explore the difference between discipline, determination, and devotion, and how purpose shapes every opportunity, even the ones that feel like setbacks at the time.

In today's episode, I sit down with Ryan Munsey to talk about the truth behind money, relationships, and consistency. I explain why money is a manmade construct and how giving, receiving, and asking all play a role in building abundance. We get into why kind people often struggle financially and how shifting your mindset around receiving can change everything. I also share how community and relationship capital create more opportunity than financial capital alone. From learning humility after major loss to using non negotiable daily habits, I break down practical ways to stay consistent, build value, and create a life rooted in growth, gratitude, and meaningful connection.

In today's episode, I sit down with Brock Holyoak, a real estate investor, developer, and coach known for building discipline, accountability, and performance-driven habits. We talk about what it really means to be blue collar built and why that mindset still matters for the next generation. Brock shares how hard work, consistency, and immediate action separate those who move ahead from those who stay stuck in motivation loops. We get into the danger of overthinking, the power of doing things now instead of later, and how simple habits create long-term results. We also discuss balancing grind with purpose, family, and finding personal fulfillment beyond business success.

In today's episode, I share the lessons that shaped my life, from chasing money to losing everything and finally learning what actually matters. I talk about intuition, humility, identity, and the daily practices that helped me rebuild from the inside out. I also break down why lessons keep repeating until we learn them, how the people around us shape our future, and why knowing what you want, who can help, how to prioritize, and how to apply your why can turn nothingness into reality. This is about getting honest with yourself, changing the meaning of your past, and moving in your divine direction.

In today's episode, I sit down with Urban Meyer, three-time national champion, former college football coach, and current commentator, for a conversation about what really builds winning teams. We talk about why culture has to be clear enough to see, hear, and feel, how great leaders define standards before they ever hire, and what separates talent acquisition from talent development. Urban shares lessons he learned from Bill Belichick, from competitive spirit and toughness to leadership, intelligence, and adaptability. I also share how accountability, trust, and time shape behavior in business, and why the right culture can bring out the best in people.

In this episode, I remind you that your potential is infinite; the problem is the interference you create. The biggest obstacle to your success isn't outside of you; it's you. I talk about entitlement, ego, and inconsistency, and why you have to show up every day and pay the rent. It's not about knowing what to do; it's about doing it, every day. When you stay aligned, take action, and make adjustments, you start to remove the interference. And when you remove the interference, you allow more of what you want to come to you. That's how you create real, lasting success. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Les Brown to talk about building a legacy that outlives you through storytelling, service, and teaching others to carry the mission forward. We discuss why success without successors falls short, how to stay driven after reaching the top, and the importance of a compelling why. Les shares lessons from overcoming stage four cancer, navigating new levels and new devils, and focusing on who you become through the journey. We also get personal about family, sacrifice, and what it means to live full and die empty while creating impact that lasts beyond your lifetime.

In today's episode, I answer questions on building real partnerships without locking yourself into rigid agreements that fall apart when circumstances change. I break down how to align skills, timing, and risk tolerance so you can make smarter decisions without regret. I also share how understanding perceived value versus your true bottom line can shift every negotiation in your favor. From quick five-minute calls to filtering where your time actually goes, I explain how to create systems that help more people while staying efficient. I also get into alignment, daily practices, and how knowing what to do now and next eliminates overwhelm and keeps momentum steady.

In today's episode, I talk with Blaine Bartlett about what it really means to live in flow instead of chasing results. We break down how clarity, humility, awareness, and intention help create alignment, and why happiness is found in the pursuit itself. I share why so much of our exhaustion comes from interference like worry, frustration, and attachment to outcomes, while Blaine uses the metaphor of a river to show how trust and direction work together. We also get into focus, feedback, meditation, and the importance of staying in the learning zone, where growth, resilience, and real momentum begin to compound.

In today's episode, I answer live audience questions about the tension between ambition and surrender, and how to stop wasting energy on what pulls us off course. I talk about why time matters so much, how to balance business, family, faith, health, and finances, and what it means to stay aligned in both the human experience and the infinite. I also share my thoughts on spotting toxicity, asking uncomfortable questions, learning from setbacks, and knowing when growth is happening versus when anxiety is taking over. Along the way, I reflect on parenting, mentorship, education, and the habits that help us recover, refocus, and move forward with purpose.

In today's episode, I break down what it really means to do more with less by designing better systems instead of pushing harder. I share how efficiency comes from eliminating friction through automation, delegation, and intentional focus, even in the smallest daily habits. I walk through why fixing the whole system matters more than reacting to symptoms, and how culture is built through what we reward, not what we say. I also get into ownership, accountability, and replacing what's broken instead of resisting it. When our systems, communication, and intention align, effort decreases, clarity improves, and results begin to compound in a meaningful way.

In today's episode, I talk about why great opportunities show up far outside your assigned industry, and how business becomes easier when you stop thinking in narrow categories. I share what I'm building next, from a book centered on my five daily practices to a TV concept focused on giving promising entrepreneurs a real second chance. I also talk about handling rejection, staying persistent, and giving better meaning to setbacks over time. Along the way, I break down the difference between discipline and devotion, why harmony matters more than balance, how to think about risk tolerance, and what actually helps you stand out when everyone else is competing for attention.

In this episode, I remind you that giving doesn't take away; it expands you. When you give with intention, you increase your capacity to receive and put yourself in the flow of more. I talk about why you have to give first, and how scarcity interferes with everything you want. What you give, time, energy, and encouragement is exactly what you strengthen in your life. When you shift from not enough to more than enough, and stay aligned in how you give, receive, and ask, you create a cycle that works for you. That's how you live in abundance. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Cindy Eckert, an entrepreneur whose journey redefines what it means to know your worth. From turning down a $900 million offer to ultimately closing a billion-dollar exit, Cindy shares how she separated perceived value from true bottom line. We talk about structuring deals the right way, how she regained her company for $1, and the lessons learned from that process. Cindy also opens up about building a company in women's health, pushing through skepticism, and shifting from proving yourself to creating real impact that changes lives.

In today's episode, I join Brad Banyas on the SaltyMF GOAT Podcast for a conversation about bold decisions, clear values, and refusing to let other people limit your vision. I talk about naming a book in a way people remember, how negativity and criticism can become fuel, and why a one star review helped create momentum instead of stopping me. We also get into building a community of leaders, not followers, and how empowering others creates exponential impact over time. It's a conversation about optimism, accountability, consistency, and removing the interference between you and your full potential.

In today's episode, I talk with Hamed Mazrouei, founder and CEO of Milagro, about navigating the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship. I share how non-negotiable habits like sleep, health, family, and time management create stability, even when everything else feels chaotic. We discuss shortening the “distance of resistance,” learning to manage reactions to setbacks, and why aligning mindset, heartset, and handset is key to long-term success. I also reflect on losing over $100 million, rebuilding with greater faith and wisdom, and shifting from chasing outcomes to focusing on consistent behavior that creates a happy, healthy, and wealthy life.

In today's episode, I sit down with former basketball prodigy Schea Cotton to talk about Manchild, the documentary built around his rise, setbacks, and everything he learned along the way. We get into how being labeled “the next big thing” can distort your mindset, why mentorship matters when praise gets loud, and how faith, family, and resilience shape long-term success. Schea opens up about mental health, including a moment that nearly ended everything, and how he now meets kids where they are by asking a simple question: where does it hurt? We also talk about purpose, discipline, and why the journey matters more than the outcome.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Carlo Blanco, who works with high-level leaders to eliminate stress at its root and restore clarity under pressure. We talk about how mindset shapes success, why happiness is not something you earn later, and how uncertainty fuels anxiety in a world flooded with information. I share how I lost everything while chasing the wrong identity, and what it took to rebuild with purpose, faith, and daily practices that create real fulfillment. We also get into the power of surrounding yourself with the right people, taking action over analysis, and redefining success as enjoying the consistent pursuit of your potential.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr Alexander, CEO and co-founder of CoreViva, to talk about the power of early detection and why most healthcare is still reactive instead of proactive. We get into how full body MRIs are catching serious conditions before symptoms appear, including dozens of early-stage cancers, and why timing can be the difference between a simple fix and a life-altering diagnosis. Dr Alexander explains how his team built a faster, more comfortable experience with immediate results and clear action plans. We also discuss fear, cost, and why investing in your health might be the most important decision you make.

In this episode, I remind you that the principles from Think and Grow Rich are just as relevant today. What you think, say, do, believe, and feel matters—and it shows up in your results. I talk about gratitude, letting go of ego, and why you can't let outside voices determine your happiness. In business, it's not about transactions—it's about relationships, trust, and consistent value. When you give before you ask and stay devoted to helping others, you put yourself in a position for more. That's how you create lasting success. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Gurudev to talk about absolute intelligence and how it shapes the way we think, feel, and perform. We explore the idea that human intelligence is part of a larger universal consciousness, and how intuition plays a role in accessing it. Through conversations on meditation, breathwork, and mental hygiene, we break down practical ways to build resilience, increase focus, and stay present. I also connect these ideas to performance, intention, and the role of attention in creating a more aligned and fulfilled life, both personally and professionally.

In today's episode, I sit down with James Maslow and special guest Tai Emery, a former electrician turned Muay Thai fighter and global combat sports personality. We talk about what it takes to pursue an unconventional path, from working male-dominated job sites to fighting for a living. Tai shares how adversity, discipline, and survival instincts shaped her mindset, while we connect those lessons to entrepreneurship, branding, and personal growth. We also break down timing and risk tolerance, and how making consistent decisions under pressure builds confidence. It's a conversation about resilience, self-belief, and doing what you must to become who you're meant to be.

In today's episode, I sit down with Tim Kennedy, bestselling author of Scars and Stripes, along with being a Green Beret, UFC fighter, and entrepreneur, to talk about prioritization, purpose, and turning pain into fuel. We break down how he structures his time, why he refuses to ever say “I know,” and how constant learning shapes everything he does. Tim shares how trauma, failure, and physical hardship became a foundation for growth, not limitation. We also get into the importance of family, faith, and community, along with his mission to rethink education and empower the next generation through real-world skills, innovation, and personal responsibility.

In today's episode, I sit down with Christian LeFer, founder and CEO of InstantNonprofit, who has helped launch nearly 5,000 nonprofits by removing the friction that stops people from acting on their purpose. We talk about why so many well-intentioned founders quit, how time and uncertainty kill momentum, and how he reduced a 50-hour process into something that can take under 30 minutes. Christian shares how his upbringing shaped his mission, why nonprofit work is about spirit over structure, and how AI can free us to better listen, connect, and serve. This conversation centers on turning intention into action at scale.

In today's episode, I sit down with Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX and author of Be Yourself at Work, to talk about emotional awareness and what it really means to show up authentically. We discuss why feelings should be treated as information instead of identity, and how recognizing them quickly can improve clarity and action. Claude shares the moment that helped her break patterns of self-sabotage and take ownership of her mindset. We also get into a candid conversation about authenticity in the workplace, exploring how to balance being yourself with maintaining boundaries and building stronger connections with the people around you.

In today's episode, I sit down with Asi Wind, an award-winning magician and mentalist, to talk about what makes magic feel real even when the outcome is already set. We get into how suspense is created, why uncertainty is the key to connection, and how knowledge can actually change your experience of wonder. Asi shares stories from live performances where unexpected moments created something unforgettable, along with his perspective on the difference between magic and mentalism. We also talk about fear versus excitement, preparation, and why the best moments happen when you are forced to respond in real time.

In this episode, I remind you that true momentum isn't built in big moments—it's built in consistency. It's about showing up every day and not breaking the chain. I share why small actions compound and how managing your energy keeps you consistent. Most importantly, momentum doesn't come from motivation—it comes from identity. You show up because of who you believe you are. When you stay consistent and aligned, you create momentum that doesn't stop—and that's what creates real freedom. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Andrew Wilson to talk about faith, gratitude, frequency, and the long road back after losing everything. I share how my mom and my wife helped me stay grounded when I went bankrupt after losing over $100 million, and how that season reshaped my values, my daily practices, and my purpose. We talk about the difference between discipline and devotion, the power of surrounding yourself with the right people and ideas, and why kindness, accountability, and intention matter in business, family, and life. It's a conversation about rebuilding from pain and creating a legacy that lives through others.

In today's episode, I sit down with Josh Newman, founder and managing partner at Clatter, to talk about turning zero to one into a competitive advantage. We get into how automation transforms disorganized marketing assets into fast, usable outputs while still protecting brand and compliance. Josh explains why his team focuses on using AI for intelligence and search instead of generation, and how guardrails create trust inside large organizations. We also talk about handling rapid technological change without chasing every new tool, and why staying the course matters. Finally, we get into culture, flexibility, and why work should support life, not the other way around.

In today's episode, I break down why most people quit and how it has nothing to do with talent. I talk about how slow progress, discomfort, and uncertainty get misread as failure when they are actually signs of growth. I explain why comparing your beginning to someone else's middle creates unnecessary pressure, and how overthinking leads to inaction. We also get into the illusion of control, and why focusing on effort, attitude, and consistency matters more than outcomes. Finally, I share how staying connected to your purpose keeps you moving when things get difficult, and why persistence comes down to how you interpret the process.

In today's episode, I sit down with Orlando Brown Jr, an NFL offensive tackle, to talk about what it really means to follow through and lead with intention on and off the field. We get into the value of vulnerability in the locker room, why meaningful conversations matter, and how his priorities have evolved as his career has grown. He shares how visualization helped him stay calm on the biggest stage, the habits he's changed to perform at a higher level, and the mental shift that freed him from comparing himself to others. We also talk about fatherhood, perspective, and building a standard that holds up in every area of life.

In today's episode, I talk about what it really takes to stay grounded while balancing family, ambition, and personal growth. I share how intentional time with my kids has become one of my biggest challenges as they grow more independent, and why consistency matters more than intensity in every area of life. I break down the difference between motivation and inspiration, and how a simple mindset shift helped me get back on my feet at my lowest point. I also explain why gratitude, forgiveness, accountability, and faith keep me centered, and how daily habits, recovery, and community shape long-term success more than any single breakthrough moment.

In today's episode, I sit down with Moe Jumaa, CEO of Waxii, to talk about building a business by questioning broken systems. At 24, Moe shares how a simple rideshare experience exposed a major gap in the market and led to a platform focused on giving drivers more of what they earn. We discuss his early start in crypto, learning through mentorship instead of traditional education, and why underserved global markets present massive opportunity. Moe also explains why he chose crowdfunding over venture capital and how aligning with community needs creates traction where big companies fall short.

In this episode, I remind you that most people aren't living with intention; they're reacting instead of creating. When you're not aligned with what you do, say, think, believe, and feel, you drift further from where you want to be. I share why simplicity creates clarity and how daily action, not perfection, keeps you aligned. It's not about doing more, it's about focusing on what matters and protecting your time. Building a life with intention isn't one big decision; it's a daily choice. When you start showing up with intention, everything changes. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I explain why income starts with identity, not tactics alone. I break down six lessons on how the way we see ourselves shapes the opportunities we pursue, the value we communicate, the habits we build, the communities we enter, the reputation we earn, and the wealth we create over time. I talk about aligning daily behavior with a bigger vision, practicing how we articulate value with confidence, and letting service, credibility, and consistency drive long term results. When identity expands, opportunity expands with it, and income becomes less about chasing money and more about becoming the person who can create it.

In today's episode, I sit down with Christopher Gustave, founder of Oma Mirrors, to talk about how a self-taught Navy veteran turned problem-solving into a breakthrough in beauty tech. What started as a DIY gift for his sister evolved into an AI-enabled smart mirror that blends software, hardware, and culture. We get into his path from military service to coding, the realities of building hardware overseas, and why integrating music, art, and retail into the platform opens new doors. Christopher also shares how he's thinking about funding, product-market fit, and scaling a product that keeps evolving alongside AI.

In today's episode, I join the Behavior Bitches podcast to share the moment my greatest fear came true and how it ultimately reshaped my life. After losing more than $100 million and going bankrupt, I had to confront the ego, habits, and beliefs that led me there. I talk about the lesson my mom taught me in that painful moment, why receiving is just as important as giving, and how community and shared values create real opportunity. We also discuss why surrounding yourself with the right people matters, the danger of doing business with “dicks,” and how responding to fear with humility, gratitude, and accountability can completely change your trajectory.

In today's episode, I sit down with entrepreneur Nadia Tedeschi, founder and CEO of Mylo Medical, whose approach to innovation starts with dignity. After witnessing firsthand how outdated medical equipment impacts patients and caregivers, she set out to redesign a system that hasn't changed in over 400 years. We talk about how her product improves hygiene, reduces labor strain, and lowers costs while restoring a basic human experience in healthcare. Nadia shares what it takes to turn frustration into invention, how to think through both design and business at the same time, and what patience really looks like when building something with massive upside.

In today's episode, I sit down with former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman to talk about life after football and what it really takes to carry success beyond the field. We get into how passion drives performance, why so many athletes struggle after retirement, and how to find something that gives you the same fire that once came from the game. Shawne shares lessons on building and protecting a brand, the value of licensing, and why humility keeps everything in balance. We also talk about fatherhood, legacy, and the importance of staying grounded while continuing to grow.