The Playbook

In this episode, I talk about the real engine behind sustainable success: consistency. It's not about the big wins—it's about the small things we do every single day when no one's watching. I share how routines, mindset, and even how you start and end your day can shape everything in between. From embracing the tasks you don't love to staying committed through slow progress, I break down how discipline creates results that compound over time. The truth is, your habits reflect your priorities—so if you want to change your life, start by changing what you repeat. Small hinges swing big doors. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I explain how I maintain energy, peace, and purpose by limiting interference with what already flows through all of us. I talk about why consistency beats intensity, how two minutes a day shapes your subconscious more than two hours once a week, and what it really means to invest in yourself instead of sacrificing. I share the mindset that carried me through loss and recovery, the parenting habit that rewired my relationship with my kids, and why receiving is just another form of giving. It all comes back to asking for help, being intentional with time, and remembering you're part of something infinite.

In today's episode, I sit down with Nicholas Fratantonio, a dentist and father who turned his concern for safety into groundbreaking technology. We talk about his invention of a virtually invisible, self-charging tracking device that attaches to a molar, providing continuous safety for children, the elderly, and those with memory care needs. Nicholas explains how this tiny device resists tampering, never needs charging docks, and can store critical medical information for first responders. We explore the challenges of scaling such a cutting-edge product while technology rapidly evolves, and why his solution could redefine how we approach personal safety, prevention, and recovery.

In today's episode, I share how my meetups turned into an unexpected global research project on human connection, energy, and intention. I talk about the difference between motivation and inspiration, the real value of rejection, and why the people who love us most often hold us back without meaning to. I explain how I prioritize decisions using relativity, association, and what feeds me, even when it drains me. From funding pitches to spiritual alignment, I walk through how to build something meaningful in both the practical and infinite sense, and why asking “for the sake of what?” can reframe your purpose, guide your energy, and keep you grounded.

In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Kien Vuu, a former interventional radiologist turned performance and longevity expert, to talk about what it really means to feel alive. We get into the connection between identity, inherited beliefs, and disease, and how stress and self-worth are linked to cellular health. Dr. Vuu shares how chasing external success led to his own decline and what he did to reverse it. We unpack why most people are focused on living longer instead of living better, and how real wellness begins with energy, ease, and purpose. It's not about avoiding death. It's about creating a life that actually feels worth living.

In today's episode, I sit down with Bradley Bostic, a longtime healthcare innovator and investor who's using data, AI, and capital to push the entire industry toward personalization and prevention. Bradley shares how food prescriptions and microbiome testing are already making a real difference in patient outcomes, and why social connection is essential to lasting wellness. We talk about how healthcare tech can identify harmful medication overlaps before they become dangerous, and how his podcast, Boombostic Health, opened unexpected doors for connection and growth. From food deserts to functional medicine, this conversation covers what it really takes to help people feel alive, not just live longer.

In today's episode, I sit down with former NFL fullback and Yale alum Chris Hetherington, now CEO of Fathead, to talk about the shift from pro sports to entrepreneurship. Chris shares how lessons from the football field like discipline, grit, and team focus helped him revive a legacy brand by leaning into technology, cultural relevance, and smart partnerships. We get into prioritization, staying mentally and physically sharp, and why his mantra is “hell yes or not yet.” Chris also opens up about personal adversity, what it means to surrender without giving up, and how asking for help changed his approach to leadership.

In this episode, I share why real growth takes time—and why that's a good thing. Trusting the process isn't about sitting back and hoping for the best. It's about showing up every day with purpose, especially when the outcome isn't clear. I talk about how to stay consistent when progress feels slow, how surrender can actually create more space for success, and why uncertainty is often where the best opportunities begin. It's not about rushing the results—it's about having faith in the work, the timing, and yourself. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I share the mindset shift that turned frustration into fuel and how a simple mental trick I call the Michael Jordan rule helps me show up when I don't feel like it. I talk about learning to love what I once hated, redefining abundance by receiving fully, and the importance of asking for what you want without guilt or hesitation. I reflect on why marrying my wife was the best decision I ever made, the pride I feel working alongside my daughter, and how giving only works when you allow others to give to you. Abundance is not a finish line. It is a loop.

In today's episode, I'm joined by luxury real estate developer Steve Harbaugh to talk about building a legacy on the crystal-clear shores of Exuma. After years of success in New Jersey, Steve moved his family to South Florida and began developing a high-end resort on an island off an island, where materials arrive by boat and concrete is mixed by hand. We talk about setbacks like the 2008 housing crash, turning failure into a career breakthrough, and why TikTok is now his most effective sales tool. Steve also shares how he manages family life, grief, and business with intention, flexibility, and a little bit of sandbar magic.

In today's episode, I reflect on the early habits that cost me more than money, especially how I misunderstood credibility and used manipulation as a shortcut to success. I share the mindset shift that redefined my approach to value, integrity, and how I show up in every relationship. I talk about building real purpose through consistent action, even on days I want to quit, and why faith matters more when nothing is going right. From having good sleep habits to setting daily non-negotiables, I break down how I protect my energy and reframe setbacks as setups. This episode is a raw look at how I align belief with behavior and turn hardship into clarity.

In today's episode, I sit down with Joe Tolzmann, founder and CEO of RocketPlan, the app transforming property restoration management. Joe shares how he built RocketPlan from a small startup into a global solution by streamlining documentation, reducing labor, and improving cash flow for contractors. We talk about how his simple, user-friendly platform helps businesses get paid faster while reducing stress for property owners after disasters. Joe explains how RocketPlan's efficiency boosts earnings, attracts private equity interest, and raises company valuations almost overnight. His journey from cleaning up job sites himself to leading a recession-proof tech company proves how powerful the right solution can be.

In today's episode, I share how shifting your consciousness can break you out of old loops and help you solve problems faster. I talk about the subconscious running most of your day, how to train it with intention, and why truth and repetition are the real tools of impact. I explain why manifestation isn't magic. It's the process of materializing what already exists by tuning your awareness to the right frequency. From building a foundation of learning to capturing those “aha” moments as they happen, this episode covers how to raise your thinking, shorten resistance, and access the cheat codes that turn challenges into opportunities.

In today's episode, I sit down with Super Bowl champion, former NFL MVP, and longtime broadcaster Joe Theismann. We talk about his passion for golf and his role in the American Century Championship, where top athletes, entertainers, and business leaders compete while raising millions for charity. Joe explains why quarterbacks and pitchers often excel at golf, shares what keeps him motivated after football, and reflects on moments that shaped his career on and off the field. We also get into his work as a motivational speaker, his approach to storytelling, and how a simple thank-you letter from two young fans left a lasting impact.

In this episode, I shared why simple actions are often the most powerful tools for transformation. From saying “thank you” every day to setting clear boundaries in relationships, it's the small, intentional choices that create the biggest results over time. We talked about mindset shifts, the importance of consistency, and how reframing setbacks can lead to growth. Success isn't about doing more—it's about doing what matters, every single day, with purpose and clarity. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down the emotional patterns that shape how we respond to fear, stress, and setbacks, often without realizing it. I explain why our feelings aren't always true, how to spot what they're really signaling, and how reframing those reactions helps create more clarity, peace, and direction. I share strategies for building emotional resilience in business and in life, starting with one simple shift: stop reacting and start responding with intention. Whether it's a delay, disappointment, or misstep, I show how to turn emotional interference into fuel for better decision-making, stronger relationships, and a more aligned, purpose-driven path forward.

In today's episode, I sit down with Evelyn Y. K. Lee, founder of Vine Ventures, international investor, mentor, and private equity expert. Evelyn shares why she backs entrepreneurs who demonstrate consistency, integrity, and a deep commitment to their mission. We discuss the persistent funding gap facing women, especially women of color, and why investing in these founders often leads to stronger long-term outcomes. Evelyn also shares why companies like Rocket Plan, which simplify outdated industries with scalable solutions, stand out in a crowded market. Legacy, impact, and execution remain at the center of her approach as she empowers founders building businesses that create real change.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Joe Tolzmann, entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of RocketPlan Technologies, for a conversation with Christine Tsai, Founding Partner and CEO of 500 Global. Christine shares how watching her mom program punch cards sparked a lifelong connection to technology and entrepreneurship. We talk about what it takes to succeed outside the typical startup hotspots, why investing in underrepresented founders matters, and how early rejection helped shape breakout companies like Canva. Christine also reflects on why entrepreneurship still holds the key to solving the world's biggest challenges.

In today's episode, I sit down with Irina Novoselsky, CEO of Hootsuite, to talk about what leaders are getting wrong about Gen Z. After interviewing more than 500 members of the generation, Irina shares what's really driving their decisions, including their preference for social-first communication and their shifting definition of success. We break down how anxiety, remote work expectations, and evolving relationships with authority shape their priorities. Irina explains why traditional sales tactics fall flat, how companies can actually reach Gen Z buyers, and what they really mean when they say they want flexibility. It's not entitlement. It's a different rulebook entirely.

In today's episode, I sit down with my high performance coach and longtime friend John Assaraf to talk about how to train the brain for sustainable success. John explains how our thoughts activate specific neural circuits and how to interrupt the negative ones before they take over. He walks through his signature “innercise” method and shares a simple morning practice that rewires the brain with repetition, not willpower. We talk about the neuroscience of fear, motivation, and identity, and the real reason most people do not trust their training when it counts. From visualization to blueprinting goals, this conversation covers the mental fitness needed to perform at the highest level.

In today's episode, I sit down with Will Bryk, co-founder of Exa.ai and former robotics lead at Harvard, to talk about the future of search, the limits of human understanding, and how AI can help us push past them. Will shares how his background in physics led him to build search tools focused on meaning rather than keywords. We talk about what makes Exa.ai different, how it's helping people surface better information, and why designing for complexity creates more useful results. For anyone looking to make sharper decisions or grow with more clarity, this conversation offers a look at what's possible when AI actually understands what you're asking.

In this episode, I talk about one of the most underrated tools for growth—your perspective. I share why the way you see things often shapes what you get from them, and how small mindset shifts can lead to big changes in results. From the power of intentional disruption to the REFRAME method I use to reset and refocus, this conversation is about breaking patterns, getting clear on what matters, and moving forward with purpose. When we lead with gratitude and curiosity, everything starts to look different—and so do the outcomes we create. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today's episode, I break down the habits, mindset shifts, and uncomfortable decisions that lead to lasting growth. I talk about the importance of narrowing your focus, protecting your energy, and making peace with the fact that not everyone will grow with you. I explain why feeling like a fraud is often a sign you're on the right track, and how burnout happens when you try to serve everyone but yourself. From setting non-negotiables to releasing what no longer fits, I share what it really takes to stay aligned with your purpose. Greatness doesn't come from doing everything;it comes from doing the right things consistently.

In today's episode, I break down what it really takes to move forward when everything falls apart. I talk about the pain of losing over $100 million, the identity loss that comes with failure, and the power of turning rejection into redirection. From firewalks to forgiveness, I share how non-negotiable behaviors and consistent values create long-term stability. I explain why faith matters more when nothing makes sense, why self-awareness beats self-pity, and how asking for help can be a higher act of service than offering it. This one's about finding your direction through struggle—and turning setbacks into something that serves you.

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.