The Playbook

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.

In today's episode, I sit down with James Maslow and Owen Hanson, a former USC walk-on who once brushed shoulders with Heisman winners and ended up running a multimillion-dollar black-market empire. Owen shares how ambition and access turned him from sports agent to international drug trafficker, and how a stint in federal prison sparked a new kind of hustle. From mop-bucket ice cream experiments to launching the first 20g protein ice cream bar from a halfway house, his story is as surreal as it is instructive. What started as a bet for fast cash became a lesson in patience, reinvention and the real cost of unchecked ambition.

In today's episode, I sit down with Georges St-Pierre, the legendary MMA champion and actor celebrated for his dominance across multiple UFC weight classes. We talk about the mindset that drove his success, his resistance to comfort, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who keep you grounded. GSP opens up about navigating fame, the role of mentorship, and why humility matters more than hype. He shares a vivid memory from one of his toughest fights, where time seemed to slow down mid-battle, and how entering “the zone” changed his performance. We also talk about health, legacy, and what he hopes for most in the next chapter of his life.

In this weeks ‘Friday Training' episode, I shared why culture, not charisma or short-term wins is the foundation of any great organization. When companies shift from being founder-centric to culture-centric, they build something that can weather change, inspire people, and last well beyond any one leader. We discussed the three pillars of lasting culture: a clear purpose, empowered people, and systems that support shared values. Real impact comes when culture is lived every day, not just posted on a wall. If you want your business to thrive long-term, focus on the habits, beliefs, and structures that will stand the test of time. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Casey Hayward, two-time Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee and 11-year NFL veteran, to talk about life beyond the field. Casey shares how his parents shaped his values early, why he gave one of the largest donations in Vanderbilt history, and how real estate became his post-football passion. We also talk about learning from mistakes, the importance of mentorship, and why business is a lot like playing cornerback. You need to recover quickly, stay focused, and trust your preparation. Casey opens up about his transition out of football and why running track helped launch both his athletic and financial future.

In today's episode, I sit down with Amanda Reese, a former Division I athlete turned elite event strategist, to talk about what really makes an event unforgettable. Amanda shares how she designs experiences around emotion, business value, and long-term impact, always keeping content and community at the core. We talk through her approach to matching the right people with the right room, creating moments that feel personal, and turning events into content machines that keep delivering. She also opens up about staying grounded in chaos, managing shifting expectations, and how her early experiences in sports helped shape her ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.

In today's episode, I sit down with global entrepreneur and wealth strategist Jeremy Wong, who shares how a career-ending gymnastics injury at 18 set him on a path to building more than 20 companies and redefining what legacy means. We talk about the gap between good actors and good practices in wealth management, the value of asking uncomfortable questions, and how his DSL system helps people leverage gold to unlock long-term financial potential. Jeremy also explains why understanding timing and risk tolerance is more important than chasing returns, and how the right mindset can turn major setbacks into lasting success.

In today's episode, I sit down with Ace Curtis, a motivational speaker and certified life coach who helps people build momentum through intentional growth. We explore what it means to be confident while also being open to support, especially for men who often feel pressure to figure things out on their own. Ace introduces his G.R.O.W.T.H. framework, a roadmap designed to help people reconnect with their purpose and take action. He also shares how his late mother's impact as an educator continues to inspire his work, including the creation of the Ace Collectives, where like-minded individuals come together to grow, support each other, and build stronger communities.

In today's episode, I sit down with entrepreneur and speaker Chad Sanschagrin to talk about the shift from survival to transformation. Chad shares the personal turning points that helped him break free from victimhood, including the night he met his wife and made a decision to become someone he was proud of. We talk about forgiveness, spiritual alignment, and learning to love yourself when the mirror doesn't reflect the person you're becoming. Chad opens up about his journey through faith, discipline, and emotional resilience, and why praying for storms is part of growing stronger.

In today's episode, I sit down with music agent and UTA partner Mike G, who represents stars like Lil Wayne, Cardi B, Young Thug, and Rauw Alejandro. We talk about how the agent's role has evolved beyond just booking shows, and why understanding everything from film and TV to brand deals matters more than ever. Mike shares what it really takes to build an artist's career step by step, how he keeps talent grounded when things blow up fast, and why empathy matters in an industry that rarely slows down. We also get into the emotional toll of fame and the importance of mental health on and off the stage.

In today's episode, I unpack how releasing attachment to outcomes, validation, and status can clear the path to lasting fulfillment. I share why simplicity isn't about doing less, but about doing what matters with clarity and intention. When we let go of the need to impress, we reclaim energy to innovate, connect, and serve at a higher level. I explore how to reframe goals through the lens of purpose, apply the AAA strategy of alignment, action, and adjustment, and shift from chasing to attracting. Success becomes a byproduct of gratitude, humility, and consistent practice, not a reward for striving or comparison. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down how to use rules as instruments for growth instead of letting them box you in. From Napoleon Hill to Don Miguel Ruiz, I explore how principles, not rigid systems, shape consistent success. I share the mindset behind bending rules with intention, evaluating motive before action, and asking uncomfortable questions that protect your time, energy, and trust. Whether it's a team decision or a business deal, clarity and adaptability are the real power moves. When you treat rules as tools, not as limits, you give yourself permission to evolve, align with purpose, and own your hustle without apology.

In today's episode, I sit down with former NFL executive and ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum. From his years leading the Jets and Dolphins, Mike shares how he managed the pressure of decisions worth hundreds of millions and why character always determined the ceiling for a player's success. He reflects on lessons from Curtis Martin, the importance of consistency, and why small daily efforts stack into game-changing results. We also talk about building lasting relationships, staying motivated after failure, and what young athletes should know if they're serious about the NFL. Mike's journey is a reminder that talent sets the floor, but mindset and preparation raise the ceiling.

In today's episode, I'm joined by artist and creative entrepreneur Mikael Brandrup, whose journey took him from corporate graphic design in Denmark to the heart of the global art scene in Los Angeles. We talk about burnout, identity, and how personal evolution led him to create without limits. Mikael shares how meditation and mindset work became his foundation, why he stepped away from a profitable business to follow his instincts, and how he built a career on abstract expression. From brand collaborations with Nike and Bentley to large-scale public art, his story is a rare look at freedom, resilience, and the power of starting with nothing.

In today's episode, I sit down with David Abeles, the CEO and President of TaylorMade Golf, to explore the core values driving one of the most loved companies in sports. We unpack how originality, competitiveness, relatability, and a made-up word, “golftimistic,” have shaped TaylorMade's identity and fueled its innovation. David shares how these principles are embedded in every hiring decision, every product launch, and every moment with his 2,200-person team. We talk about what it means to lead with intention, how he manages expectations in a dream job setting, and why staying grounded in purpose has helped TaylorMade thrive across decades of transformation.

In today's episode, I talk about what it means to actually walk the walk—not just in business, but in faith, giving, and leadership. I break down the idea of the “infinite loop of giving” and why asking for help is just as important as giving it. I share how losing $100 million was the greatest form of protection I could've received and why true faith means trusting the process even when the evidence looks like a setback. If you've ever felt guilty for asking or unworthy of receiving, this is the message. Giving only works if you're open to receiving too.

In today's episode, I sit down with Mikael Brandrup, a Copenhagen-born artist who left behind the golden handcuffs of corporate design to find freedom through expression. We talk about what happens when your supposed passion starts to drain you, and the difference between building for others versus creating from within. Mikael shares how burnout forced him to reset everything, leading to a risky move to LA, two distinct painting styles, and a mission-driven career that now supports environmental causes and younger artists alike. His journey is emotional, chaotic, and deeply creative—and it all started when he chose to stop following rules and trust his instincts instead.

In this episode, I shared why chasing “more” often leaves us feeling empty, no matter how much we achieve. The finish line keeps moving when we base our happiness on the next goal. Real fulfillment doesn't come from accumulation—it comes from clarity, gratitude, and alignment with our values. By redefining what “enough” means and shifting from scarcity to abundance, we begin to experience peace in the present, not just hope for it in the future. You already have everything you need—the key is removing what's getting in the way. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I sit down with Josh Luber, the co-founder of StockX and Fanatics Collectibles, to talk about what it really means to build a third act after creating two major successes. Josh shares how financial freedom and a grounded home life have shifted his relationship to pressure and how Ghostwrite, his latest venture in collectible toys, reflects a more personal vision. We talk about creating culture through scarcity, the evolution of the “hype economy,” and the strange power of nostalgia in shaping billion-dollar ideas. Josh also opens up about doing it solo this time, and why control—not capital—is what really fuels him now.

In today's episode, I sit down with Tom Bilyeu, co-founder of Quest Nutrition and creator of Impact Theory, to talk about what it really takes to sustain success without losing your sense of purpose. Tom opens up about building a billion-dollar brand while knowing it wasn't his ultimate calling—and how he stayed grounded by focusing on the people he loved. We explore his personal transformation, the power of identity shifts, and how he learned to break negative thought loops through discipline and intentional habits. Tom also shares his views on urgency, skill-building, and what it means to chase progress at a pace that actually matters.