The Playbook

In today's episode, I break down the habits and mindsets that help turn struggle into strength, focusing on how consistency, clarity, and intentionality create real change. I talk about the difference between helping and enabling, the truth behind non-negotiable behaviors, and why commitment has to outlast circumstances. I explain how I rebuilt after losing everything, what it means to live your legacy instead of chasing one, and why gratitude only matters when it's practiced during chaos. From sleep to self-awareness, I share the most overlooked priorities that influence success. The throughline? Giving meaning to your pain, and using it to build something better.

In today's episode, I sit down with NFL legend and Las Vegas native Steven Jackson to talk about what it really takes to sustain excellence, both on the field and in life. Steven shares the story behind his Mount Kilimanjaro climb, the mindset that carried him through pain and pressure, and the importance of putting one foot in front of the other when the path gets hard. We talk about how early mornings help him silence the noise, why being drafted 24th overall fueled his motivation, and how he made decisions that set him up for success long after football. His approach to giving, growth, and grit continues to shape the legacy he's building today.

In today's episode, I share the lessons I've learned about giving, parenting, and the power of asking for help. I talk about the eye-roll moments with my kids, the challenge of being generous without feeling worthy of receiving, and how too many kind people live in a zero-sum mindset. I break down what it really means to live in the infinite loop of giving and receiving, and why asking for help is one of the most faithful, courageous things you can do. From navigating teenage attitudes to redefining wealth and service, this is about shifting from “I'll be happy when” to “I'm happy for the sake of.”

In today's episode, I sit down with UFC Hall of Famer and VP of Athlete Development, Forrest Griffin, to talk about humor, preparation, and why confidence comes from doing the work. Forrest shares how he learned to use humor as a tool, what it means to “fake it till you feel it,” and why getting your mind out of the way is often the best thing you can do under pressure. We talk about setting purpose-driven goals, tracking growth, and trusting the body's instincts. From training sessions to life lessons, Forrest brings sharp insights, quick wit, and a brutally honest look at what it takes to keep growing.

Too often, people blame bad luck for missed opportunities or wait around hoping for a break. In this Friday Training, I shared why luck isn't something we find—it's something we build. Superstition might bring comfort, but it also keeps us passive. The real formula for success is grounded in intention, preparation, and meaningful relationships. When we stop relying on chance and start aligning our actions with our goals, we step into our full potential. Remember: don't wait for your lucky day—create it. Be kind to your future self, do good deeds, and lead with purpose. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down the difference between toxic charity and transformational giving. It's not just about helping; it's about how we help. I share a five-part framework that focuses on clarity, collaboration, contribution, capacity building, and connection. I also talk about why giving without understanding can hurt more than it helps, how we unintentionally strip people of their dignity, and why true impact starts with empowering others to stand on their own. From asking for help to creating sustainable systems, this conversation is about moving past emotional rewards and toward measurable, long-term outcomes that actually matter.

In today's episode, I unpack the relationship between timing, decision-making, and long-term results. I explain why there's never just one solution to a problem and how reframing your relationship with time can shift everything. I share the simple two-minute rule I use to create 90% of my success, why daily consistency matters more than occasional effort, and how to train your mindset to make faster, more accurate choices. From the power of relativity to the trap of external validation, I break down the internal tools that lead to better outcomes. It all starts with how you see the problem—not how fast you fix it.

In today's episode, I sit down with operational growth strategist and author Jack Jackson to talk about the high cost of inaction. Jack shares the origin story behind his book Reaction to Inaction, sparked by a moment of silence that cost a company $20 million and one passionate leader their drive. We get into what real empowerment looks like inside an organization, why janitors should be trusted just as much as executives, and how structure can create more freedom, not less. Jack breaks down the framework for building organizations where everyone has a voice, a role in innovation, and the confidence to act with purpose.

In today's episode, I sit down with Laura Ann Lamando, founder and CEO of FanGirl Fashionista, to talk about the real gap in sports merchandise for women and why no one's addressed it until now. Laura shares how years of industry inertia and bulk-buying habits have kept women sidelined from gear that actually fits, feels good, and reflects their fandom. We get into the licensing hurdles, manufacturing timelines, and what it takes to break through in a space most fashion brands won't touch. We also unpack why women speaking up, buying less, and asking for what they actually want could be the key to a more inclusive and profitable future in sports.

In today's episode, I sit down with mortgage strategist, martial arts coach, and LFG Society founder Arjun Dhingra to talk about real estate, financial literacy, and the emotional weight behind major life purchases. Arjun shares how a canceled coffee meeting almost ended his career, and how vulnerability, education, and authenticity helped him build trust in a fear-driven industry. We break down why some people shouldn't buy a house yet, how marketing shifts alongside public sentiment, and the real reason financial shame keeps so many stuck. Arjun also opens up about losing everything in 2008—and what that taught him about resilience and responsibility.

In today's episode, I sit down with coach, author, and Penn State board member Jay Paterno to talk about the pressure, politics, and possibilities shaping the future of college athletics. We break down how NIL deals, revenue sharing, and media money are forcing universities to rethink what it means to support student-athletes—especially those outside of football and basketball. Jay shares personal stories from life on and off the field, including how mental health, identity, and leadership are being reshaped in real time. We talk about the impact of Title IX, the lessons passed down from his father Joe Paterno, and why building a team matters more than ever.

In today's episode, I break down why AI is more than just a tool for automation. It's the future of connection, community, and brand growth. I explain how to use AI not just to find leads but to match with people who resonate with your values, essence, and mission. I share the three skills I believe everyone must develop to stay relevant: reading, cold calling, and practicing AI the right way. We move beyond volume and vanity metrics to focus on building relationships that last. The search engine of the future isn't just about search. It searches for you by feeding relevance back to the right people in real time. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I share the lessons that only failure can teach, starting with the pressure to succeed in a household where doctor, lawyer, or failure were the only options. I break down how losing over $100 million forced me to rethink everything—from chasing validation to reclaiming the meaning of success. I talk about loving what you don't like, using faith when there's no evidence, and choosing commitment when 98% of people would quit. From food stamps to fake wealth, from overselling to owning the truth, this is about the cheat codes that come from facing discomfort head-on and remembering who you really are.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Minnesota Timberwolves co-owner and serial entrepreneur Marc Lore for a conversation about mindset, failure, and how we prepare the next generation. We talk about growing up under pressure, the flawed messages baked into our education system, and why curiosity matters more than certainty. Marc reflects on raising kids to think independently, while I share why asking for help is one of the most important skills we can teach. From navigating trial and error to embracing purpose over perfection, we look at how gratitude, empathy, and openness can shape better leaders and stronger communities.

In today's episode, I sit down with Marshall Faulk, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history and a current coach at the University of Colorado. We talk about the influence his mother had on his unshakable identity, the difference between self-confidence and ego, and how humility has shaped his life off the field. Marshall also opens up about his post-career health journey, explaining how it took two full years for his body to recover after retiring. We discuss how high performers often neglect their own wellbeing, what finally pushed him to make a change, and what it really takes to enjoy the life you've built.

In today's episode, I sit down with Kass and Mike Lazerow, married co-founders behind Golf.com, Buddy Media, and now a book that tells the truth about what building a business actually looks like. We talk about the emotional cost of entrepreneurship, fighting well in business and in marriage, and why brutal honesty is the glue that's held their personal and professional lives together. They share the real story behind their billion-dollar exit, how they made big pivots without losing each other, and the cheat codes they swear by for surviving startup life without burning out or breaking up. It's funny, raw, and full of earned wisdom.

In today's episode, I sit down with Chris Callery, a former top Vegas DJ who walked away from nightlife, toured the world on cruise ships, studied risk management, and eventually bought a 75-year-old family-owned jewelry business with his wife. We talk about what it really means to be an “overnight success,” how to pivot when life demands it, and why emotion, not just utility, drives value—whether you're selling tacos or timepieces. Chris shares how storytelling, consistency, and connection have helped Huntington Jewelers thrive in a digital age, and how the right watch can say more about someone's values than any smart device ever could.

In today's episode, I sit down with Al Guido, President of the San Francisco 49ers and CEO of Elevate, to talk about vision, pressure, and purpose at the highest level of sports and entertainment. Al opens up about launching the Guido Family Foundation, the impact of his upbringing, and why running a marathon helped clarify what really matters. We talk Super Bowl and World Cup prep, balancing ambition with presence, and how he defines harmony in a life that demands sacrifice. Whether it's managing Levi's Stadium or being a father to three daughters, Al brings clarity, conviction, and humility to everything he does.

Success isn't about how fast you move—it's about how aligned you are while you move. In this Friday Training, we explored how real growth comes from clarity, consistency, and staying connected to what truly matters. When you stop comparing, stay patient, and focus on the habits that reflect your values, you create momentum that lasts. Progress isn't always loud or instant, but it compounds every day you show up with intention. As I always say, be kind to your future self, do good deeds, and let your purpose guide the way. That's how you build something meaningful step by step. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down how fear, when properly managed, becomes a catalyst instead of a constraint. Drawing from Napoleon Hill's timeless principles, I share a three-step approach: stop, drop, and roll. This helps you respond to fear in real time and stay aligned with your purpose. Whether it's public speaking, launching a project, or changing careers, your reaction to fear is often more important than the fear itself. By identifying emotional patterns, replacing ego-driven responses with gratitude, and training the brain to reroute stress, we can convert anxiety into momentum. This is about progress, not perfection, and using discomfort as directional fuel.

In today's episode, I share the full arc of my relationship with money—from growing up with nothing to making millions, losing it all, and rebuilding from a place of purpose. I talk about the trap of attaching happiness to outcomes, the myth of giving without receiving, and how shifting from scarcity to abundance reshaped not just my bank account but my mindset. You'll hear why faith matters most when nothing makes sense, how asking for more is part of giving more, and the difference between being generous and being wise. This is about moving from survival to service and still building real wealth.

In today's episode, I break down five core lessons from the laws of success that have reshaped how I approach fulfillment, income, and personal growth. I talk about shifting from chasing money to becoming someone money chases by focusing on clarity, credibility, conversion, contribution, and alignment. From understanding how to measure impact instead of time to articulating value in a way that builds trust and earns more, this session maps out a framework for anyone feeling stuck, burned out, or undervalued. It is not about working more hours or grinding harder. It is about removing resistance, aligning with purpose, and letting compensation become the outcome instead of the pursuit.

In today's episode, I sit down with business mentor and bestselling author Myron Golden to talk about faith, value creation, and what it really takes to grow. Myron shares how a childhood struggle with polio shaped his mindset, and why success without service isn't true success. We unpack the power of repetition, the importance of clarity in communication, and how embracing short-term pain leads to long-term gain. Myron challenges the idea of surrender, offering a more nuanced take on yielding to truth. From defining real wealth to explaining why every problem has two sides, he brings hard-earned wisdom with lasting impact.

In today's episode, I sit down with the legendary Linda Cohn, the longest-tenured anchor in ESPN history and a true trailblazer in sports media. Linda shares what it was like breaking into the industry as one of the only women in the room, the personal toll it took, and how she powered through early rejection with a mix of grit, humor, and love for the game. We talk about the pressure of live TV, her adrenaline-fueled nights on SportsCenter, and what keeps her coming back after more than 30 years. From crying behind closed doors to calling the shots on-air, Linda made history by simply refusing to quit.

In today's episode, I sit down with Kevin O'Leary to talk about what separates true entrepreneurs from wannabes. He explains why passion, not profit, is the real driver of success, and why most of his top-performing investments have come from founders who treat time like their most precious asset. Kevin shares why honesty beats politeness when giving feedback, how he spots resilience in a pitch, and what most people get wrong about financial freedom. We also talk about his views on work-life balance, the dangers of debt, and the surprising power of saving early and consistently. His candor is sharp, but it comes from experience—and results.

In this episode, I shared the “Flow Formula,” a simple yet powerful approach to success that centers on intention, rest, and trust. Too often, we get caught up in the idea that working harder is the only way forward, but real progress comes when we stop forcing outcomes and start aligning with what truly matters. Flow isn't about doing less—it's about showing up with clarity, letting go of resistance, and allowing things to unfold with purpose. Whether you're seeding a new idea, getting quality rest, solving problems with patience, or surrendering to timing, this formula helps you move forward with ease and impact. Be kind to your future self—stay present, stay consistent, and let your actions reflect your values. That's where fulfillment begins. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Sam and Dee Taggart, the couple behind the Taggart Xperience and authors of Eat What You Kill, to talk about the real work behind building both a business and a marriage. We unpack how they navigate shared goals, set clear boundaries, and design a relationship where support doesn't mean sacrifice. From co-parenting in a blended family to working together while honoring each other's roles, they break down the mindset shift from compromise to intentional collaboration. If you've ever wondered how to grow with your partner without losing your identity, this conversation offers a lived-in, unfiltered perspective.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Joel Puthoff and Leo Adams, co-founders of Linxy, a location-based app built to make real-world connection as intuitive as checking your phone. They share how their “social DNA” system helps users find people on the same wavelength by syncing interests, values, and goals in real time. We talk about the challenges of building community in a post-Covid world, the power of frequency in creating meaningful collaboration, and how trust fuels their long-term partnership. From professional networking to authentic belonging, this conversation is about creating tools that bring people together when it matters most.

In today's episode, I sit down with Sharon Lechter, financial literacy expert, bestselling author, and co-author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, to talk about fear, legacy, and taking control of your money. We discuss the power of Napoleon Hill's Outwitting the Devil, how fear influences our decisions, and what it takes to shift from scarcity to abundance. Sharon opens up about leaving a global brand, redefining success for women, and teaching others to build income-producing assets. We also look at why high earners often remain financially insecure and how small changes in mindset and language can lead to real financial freedom.

In today's episode, I sit down with entrepreneur, speaker, and medical practice growth expert Kevin St. Clergy to talk about ownership, reinvention, and what it means to build a purpose-driven life. Kevin shares how mentorship from Russell Brunson and Jack Canfield shaped his journey, from scaling and selling his business to embracing personal setbacks as opportunities for growth. We unpack the value of structuring your day around non-negotiables, how to create momentum through aligned decisions, and why asking for help is a powerful act of faith. If you're navigating transition or aiming higher, this conversation offers clarity, perspective, and a path forward.

In today's episode, I sit down with transformational facilitator Bucky O'Neill to talk about what it really takes to shift patterns, change your life, and serve at the highest level. We get into the spiritual foundation behind human transformation, how generational trauma gets inherited and broken, and why the most impactful work starts within. Bucky shares his approach to building powerful, in-person experiences that interrupt old ways of thinking and give people a clear path to what's possible. Whether you're leading a remote team or passing a legacy to the next generation, Bucky explains how clarity, presence, and internal work fuel lasting change.

In today's episode, I sit down with Jim Tananbaum, founder and CEO of Foresite Capital, to talk about how a background in medicine and math can shape the future of healthcare. He explains how early research exposure at Harvard and MIT led to a strategy that connects long-term vision with measurable impact. We get into why sequencing all 20,000 genes is more useful than collecting endless data, and how AI is helping tailor healthcare without overcomplicating it. Jim also shares how purpose, persistence, and the right partnerships have guided his decisions across decades of transformation in biotech, venture capital, and personal health.

Sleep is one of the most powerful tools we have—but it's also one of the most overlooked. In this session, I shared how treating rest with the same discipline as business or athletics can create real, lasting results. The truth is, you can't give what you don't have. When you show up tired, you show up at half your potential. But when you prioritize sleep with intention, you increase clarity, energy, and emotional control. I broke down the simple habits that have helped me sleep better and live better—because how you go to bed determines how you show up tomorrow. Sleep isn't a reward for grinding hard. It's a responsibility to your future self. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with brain coach and best-selling author Jim Kwik to talk about imagination, identity, and the power of rewiring your beliefs. Jim shares how a childhood brain injury and the label “broken brain” shaped his self-image, and how reshaping that identity became the foundation for his work helping others unlock their cognitive potential. We talk about practical ways to protect your mental energy, why learning how to learn is the ultimate skill, and how understanding your unique “brain type” can transform the way you think, work, and connect. This one's all about turning limits into starting points.

In today's episode, I talk with Ryan Angott, founder of TechLok Solutions, about the difference between being resourceful and being limited by scarcity. We explore how he scaled his computer accessory brand while navigating tariffs, supply chain shifts, and the realities of building a business with family. Ryan shares the story behind launching a Filipino staffing agency to support his vision and how years in enterprise sales shaped his approach to long-term growth. He opens up about the personal cost of early-stage entrepreneurship, the tension between ambition and presence at home, and how he's found more clarity and balance through daily discipline.

In today's episode, I sit down with Andrew Kamal, a tech builder with experience across 37+ startups and a deep focus on quantum engineering and product design. He breaks down how his company, Riemann Computing, is creating one of the world's most efficient data compression systems, designed to make the internet faster, cheaper, and more accessible. We talk about the massive potential of localized launch sites, internet balloons, and a compression-first approach that could reshape how data is transmitted globally. Andrew also shares the regulatory hurdles that come with innovation, why he prioritizes partnerships over investors, and what it takes to scale a breakthrough idea in a bureaucratic world.

In today's episode, I sit down with Tim Storey, the acclaimed life strategist and author known for helping people navigate comebacks with faith and vision. We talk about the power of expecting miracles, not just hoping for them, and the difference between a good idea and what Tim calls a God idea. He shares how staying fully present has shaped his one-on-one coaching and how he discerns where his time is truly needed. From divine doors opening at just the right moment to the idea that miracles move us forward, not just out of crisis, Tim offers a fresh lens on purpose, faith, and impact.

In today's episode, I break down a system I use to reset negative energy and turn it into aligned, purposeful action. I call it “Cancel, Clear, Connect,” and it's a tool to shift the conscious, subconscious, and unconscious habits that quietly drain performance and create emotional expenses we don't realize we're paying. From internal spirals to inherited trauma, I explain how negativity can linger in thought loops and behaviors, and how to interrupt them before they compound. This method isn't about chasing positivity. It's about wiring your mindset to respond with clarity and confidence, especially when the pressure is on and the stakes are high.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Shane Seo, a real estate entrepreneur who has built a portfolio of more than 400 properties using seller financing and low-risk strategies. We talk about how he got started with no credit, why personal branding has become a key driver of deal flow, and how door-to-door outreach is still one of the best ways to sharpen sales skills. Shane also explains why he is willing to lose money on live events if it means creating long-term value. From real estate to AI tools and post-event content, this conversation covers what actually works when building lasting success.

In this episode, I challenged the idea that kindness is a liability in business. I shared why leading with empathy, consistency, and integrity isn't just the right thing to do, it's the smart thing to do. True success lies in showing up every day with purpose, treating people with dignity,  and staying true to your values.  It's not about pursuing flash, it's about earning trust. Good guys don't finish last, they build something that lasts. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down why capturing your true essence through content is the key to building a lasting brand and community. I talk about the difference between authenticity and frequency, and why being consistent with your skills, knowledge, and desire is what resonates most. I also share why finding your purpose isn't about chasing anything outside of you, but about clearing the interference that blocks what you already are. From overcoming resistance to shortening the distance between who you are and what you project, I explore how presence, repetition, and faith can shape your business, your energy, and your life.

In today's episode, I sit down with Michael Oved, founder of the "30 Years in 30 Minutes" podcast, to talk about what it takes to build real success and lasting happiness. I share how chasing money alone led me to lose over $100 million and why reconnecting with gratitude, accountability, and faith allowed me to rebuild a better life. We talk about the importance of asking for help, learning to enjoy what you don't love, and prioritizing daily habits that move you closer to your true potential. This conversation covers why detours are often divine, why self-image sets your ceiling, and how consistent action shapes lasting change.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dylan Smith, a keynote speaker, educator, and entrepreneur whose journey through adoption, misdiagnosis, and dyslexia shaped his mission to serve others. Dylan shares how overcoming the odds taught him that humility is not a weakness but a strength, especially when building real connections. We talk about the difference between what people do and who they truly are, and how Dylan's setbacks became the foundation for his leadership and impact. From teaching kids across the country to writing his first book, Dylan shows that persistence, perspective, and service can transform challenges into purpose.

In today's episode, I share why purpose-driven leadership goes far beyond titles or strategies. It's about creating cultures built on humility, clarity, and daily renewal. I talk about how transformation comes not from pressure or ego but from recalibrating your energy and leading through service. You'll hear how gratitude, forgiveness, and joy can fuel long-term resilience, and why comparison is one of the greatest threats to your calling. From overcoming burnout to blessing your critics, I explore how to stay focused on what you're given instead of reacting to what's missing. Great leadership isn't about being impressive. It's about being impactful even when no one is watching.

In today's episode, I'm joined by James Maslow and NFL veteran T.Y. McGill Jr., a defensive tackle with a decade-long career and a foundation focused on empowering youth through education and exposure. We talk about the pivotal moment at age eight that shaped his values, his decision to give back through annual camps and charitable work, and how he's preparing for life after football. T.Y. shares what it means to live with purpose, even in uncertain times, and why staying ready physically, mentally, and spiritually is key. This is about building something lasting, turning pain into direction, and leading with intention every step of the way.

In today's episode, I sit down with Andrea Marcellus, founder of AND/life and a leader in the world of integrated wellbeing. We talk about why lasting health starts in the brain and how most people approach wellness in disconnected pieces. Andrea explains the problem with chasing goals without clarity, how burnout stems from low energy, and why mindset is more powerful than any meal plan. She shares a practical way to calm stress in just 60 seconds using breath, balance, and movement. We also touch on the link between cortisol and self-image, and how simple shifts in thought can change everything.

In this episode, I shared some my top takeaways from the month of April. From starting your day with the right mindset to turning tough moments into empowering stories, and embracing gratitude as a daily anchor, these habits aren't just easy to do, they're easy to skip. But those small, consistent choices move us forward the fastest. When we lean into the basics, we build momentum toward the life we want. Keep it simple. Do it every day. And let that be enough to change everything. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Wolfgang Puck, a culinary icon whose restaurants have shaped fine dining around the world. We talk about what it takes to create not just a great meal but an unforgettable experience, from hand-selecting ingredients at the farmer's market to making every guest feel like the most important person in the room. Wolfgang shares how his mother's encouragement and his stepfather's harshness pushed him toward excellence, and why discipline, humility, and consistency matter in both life and business. He also explains the simple rule that has guided his success for decades: spend less than you make.

In today's episode, I sit down with Alexis Belton, a World Long Drive competitor and former D1 athlete who's reshaping the intersection of sports, purpose, and business. Alexis shares how a bet on herself led to a third place world finish, a tour victory, and a new outlook on using golf as a platform for change. We talk mindset, monetization, and what it means to keep going when success alone isn't satisfying. From building distance through efficiency to teaching golf in the slums of Kenya, Alexis has turned a personal challenge into a mission rooted in service, connection, and growth.

In today's episode, I sit down with Jon Gordon, best known for The Energy Bus and his work with some of the world's top athletes, coaches, and business leaders. We talk about what it really means to live your purpose, not just speak it. Jon opens up about the discipline behind a positive mindset, the faith that grounds his work, and how prayer, humility, and selflessness keep him aligned. He also shares how purpose fuels performance, and why understanding mindset at its deepest levels is the key to building stronger, more connected teams. This is a conversation about walking the path—not just writing the map.

In today's episode, I unpack how Napoleon Hill's timeless principles can guide a modern career path rooted in clarity, confidence, and purpose. I break down Hill's 12 career pillars, from definiteness of purpose to accurate thinking, and explain how they align with vibrational awareness instead of rigid timelines. You'll hear why imagination matters more than intensity, why motivation gets you started but inspiration keeps you going, and how your frequency shows up in what you believe, feel, and do every day. This is a framework for success that doesn't chase outcomes. It attracts them by staying aligned, consistent, and centered in purpose.