The Secret To Success with CJ, Karl, Jemal & Eric Thomas

Most people don't fail because they lack talent— they fail because their ego keeps putting them in positions they're not built for. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who keeps blowing opportunities, breaking alliances, sabotaging good teams, or confusing “control” with “calling.” We're talking identity, roles, loyalty, humility, and the dangerous trend of chasing titles instead of mastering your assignment. If you've ever walked away from the people who built you… If you keep trying to lead when you're meant to support… If you think you want the spotlight but can't handle the responsibility… If you're losing while insisting on being in charge… …this conversation is going to sting, but it will straighten out your whole approach to success. It's time to tell the truth: You can't win the game when your ego won't let you play your position. And for the first time ever, we're introducing two new segments designed to shift your mindset daily:

Life keeps bullying you because you keep handing over the power. Your habits, your phone, your job, your fears, your past — all of it is pushing you around while you stand there acting like you don't have a choice. This episode breaks that cycle wide open. ET, CJ, Karl, and Jemal dive into the truth nobody wants to admit: you're either the bully… or you're getting bullied. By your circumstances. By your imagination (or lack of it). By the systems built to turn you into a full-time consumer. Inside the episode, you'll learn: • Why the picture in your head is more important than the reality in front of you • How to stop giving your power away to fear, bills, people, and your own patterns • Why consumers get exploited, and why producers win every single time • How social media turns you into a victim without you noticing • How intentionality separates the bullied from the unstoppable • Why your gift — not your job — is the real source of your freedom • How to bully the bully in your finances, marriage, career, and internal dialogue • Why one property, one skill, or one shift can flip your entire life trajectory This is one of those episodes you replay when you feel stuck. It's raw. It's practical. It's uncomfortable. And it's exactly what you need. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Show Intro 01:25 - ET on Bullying Awareness 05:09 - Bully the Bully Strategy 07:32 - Discovering Your Gifts 11:55 - Overcoming Inner Criticism 17:19 - The Reality of Fear 19:14 - Understanding Menopause 22:15 - The Nature of Bullying 25:29 - Utilizing Your Gifts 27:18 - Embrace Assertiveness 30:25 - Valuing Your Worth 33:25 - Work for Your Demands 35:55 - Embracing Change 38:30 - Be the Solution 44:10 - Next Level Conference Overview 46:16 - Future of EYL University 47:40 - Inside The Lab 49:45 - Join the BU Community 50:01 - Support This Podcast

You're letting people with zero track record tell you how to run your life. And the wild part? Half of them couldn't survive doing what YOU do for 24 hours. In this episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, the guys break down the “Bully the Bully” mindset—why the world pushes you around if you don't push back, why people in survival mode try to hijack what you've built, and why letting the wrong voices guide you is the fastest way back to the bottom. ET, CJ, Karl, and Jemal unpack: Why unqualified opinions keep you broke and stuck The mentality difference between survivors and winners Why you MUST protect what you've built How the world “bullies” you financially if you're not intentional The exact mindset shift needed to take control of your life This one is raw, hilarious, and heavy with truth—perfect for anyone tired of being pushed around by people who haven't done the work. Video Chapters 00:00 Opening: Don't Let Bullies Give You Advice 01:21 Welcome and Team Introductions 09:48 New York Trip and Expensive Breakfast Revelation 13:45 The $69 Breakfast: They're Bullying You 14:19 Introducing Bully the Bully Mentality 22:10 Mike Tyson and the Mental Game 28:29 Recognizing Opinion Boys vs. Authorities 43:15 Black Men and the Bully Dynamic 45:02 Stop Being a Consumer, Become a Producer 52:31 Your Gifts Shall Make Room for You 58:58 Closing: Concentrate on Your Opportunity

If your feelings keep driving your finances, you're paying an invisible tax. In this episode we break down how to regulate emotions, demand receipts (real due diligence), and replace motivation with rules so you stop bleeding time and money. Action over anxiety. Rules over mood. Results over excuses. You'll learn How to stop emotional decision-making before it costs you What real due diligence looks like (records over “trust me”) The mindset shift from motivation to non-negotiable rules Why KPIs and clear consequences end confusion and chaos How to do “the real work” (and why thinking about it is harder than doing it) Tap in with S2S Subscribe for weekly breakthroughs: https://www.youtube.com/@S2SPodcastChannel?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: @s2spodcast Website: https://s2spodcast.com Patreon (exclusive content & live recordings): https://www.patreon.com/c/S2SPodcast120 Do this next (CTAs) Comment: Drop “FIRE YOUR FEELINGS” if you're done letting emotions run your money. Share: Send this to a friend who keeps “investing” without receipts. Review: If this helped, leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts—tell us your #1 takeaway.

Whether your team is 1–5 or your home feels out of rhythm, this episode gives you the playbook: peace over moods, standards over scoreboard, purpose over procrastination. ET breaks down the same locker-room mentality he brings to pro teams—then we translate it to your marriage, money, and mindset. (And yes, we clown Jemal about the Bears some more

The week the Ravens were 1–5 and about to face Chicago, ET walked into Baltimore's locker room with a message—not hype, a standard. Jemal, a lifelong Bears fan, wants to know why ET had to deliver that talk right before they played his team. That friendly smoke sets the tone as we unpack the exact principles ET shared: why contracts beat feelings, how identity sets standards, standards drive behavior, and behavior produces results—on the field and in your life. We trace the arc from a losing record to a winning mindset, then translate it into practical moves you can use this week: building simple systems that work when your mood doesn't, protecting momentum, and committing to one non-negotiable that changes the scoreboard at work and at home. By the end, Jemal makes his Bears case, ET makes the case for standards over vibes, and you'll leave with a clear “12–5” plan—one covenant, seven days, real traction. If this hits, subscribe and share it with someone who needs a standard, not a speech. Drop “12–5” in the comments with the one rule you're locking in this week, and we'll read a few on the next episode.

Stop helping. Own the kill. For years, helping felt noble—but that was Level 1. In this episode, Karl opens up about his shift from approval-seeking supporter to hunter: taking ownership, moving first, and letting execution—not permission—set the pace. We break down how that mindset change is transforming his leadership, family life, business, and even real estate strategy. What you'll get Karl's real transition: supporter → slayer (ownership over approval) “Move first, figure it out later” — how hunters build momentum Family & legacy: why your people need you leading from the front Real estate lessons (1031s, opportunity zones, scale thinking) you can model Simple systems to keep hunting when motivation dips

Drop your North Star in one sentence below. If you can't say it in a line, you can't live it in a year! Are you doing everything and going nowhere? This episode is your wake-up call. We break down why scattered hustle kills credibility, how a single North Star changed our entire operation, and the exact mindset shift to align actions with the goals you keep talking about. The guys get surgical: give up the stage for the mission, put businesses on autopilot (one at a time), value mastery over opinions, and stop letting anxiety grow in the gap between your words and your work. If you want receipts, we've got them—KPIs, standards, and the uncomfortable conversations required to level up.

Most people don't lose because they're not talented—they lose because they're scattered. In this episode, the guys break down why doing nine things halfway will never beat doing one thing with ruthless focus. ET unpacks how people-pleasing drains your energy, CJ shows how a single North Star changed their whole brand, and Maul & Karl dive into legacy, parenting, and building skills that outlive you. You'll learn: Why your focus decides your future How “too many options” quietly kills results The cure for people-pleasing and scattered energy Generational strategy: turning gifts into a family enterprise How to choose one priority and actually finish

In this powerful continuation of last week's conversation, the S2S crew dives deep into the truth about circles, ego, and why so many people stay stuck.

Parents think the best gift they can give their kids is money. But the truth? Money alone isn't enough. In this powerful episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET, CJ, Karl & TJ unpack the story of Vontrell — a star athlete whose NFL dream collapsed after repeated injuries. Lost and struggling, he fell into security jobs and uncertainty… until Marlon & Camille stepped in. Instead of letting him sink, they gave him something far greater than money: A car to drive. A place to live. His basic expenses covered. In other words, they gave him a margin of error — room to fail, recover, and chase his next dream. That margin led to marriage, a new home, and eventually a million-dollar contract. Here's what you'll learn in Part 1: - Why your kids need stability more than a paycheck - How to create room for failure without destroying their future - Why marriages and money collapse when there's no foundation - The hidden sacrifices that build true legacy - ET's challenge: how do you stay hungry when you're already full? This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation that every parent, leader, and dreamer needs to hear.

Chronic stress is silently killing your energy, focus, and health. In this episode, learn how to eliminate stress, gain mental clarity, and thrive. Stress isn't about your job, marriage, or circumstances—it's about your perception of them. In this powerful episode, the S2S crew sits down with Lisa Angel Smith to break down the difference between acute stress and chronic stress, why managing stress isn't enough, and how to actually eliminate it from your life. Lisa shares her journey, how diet and daily routines impact mental clarity, and the formula for reducing stress through Exit, Enter, and Engagement strategies. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck—this is the conversation that will set you free. ✊

This week on the Secret to Success Podcast, the guys go deep on why most people stay stuck financially and personally. From Cracker Barrel's branding mistakes to the truth about passive income, standards, and self-sabotage—this episode will challenge you to stop listening to the wrong voices and finally become the right person.

If you're not intentional with money, marriage, or business, you'll accidentally end up broke.

F* the Anchor. Yeah, we said it. But it's not what you think. In this episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET, CJ, Karl, and Jemal break down why so many people are drifting in life—financially, relationally, and spiritually—because they don't have anchors holding them steady. The guys talk about: Why margin for error matters in your money, marriage, and health How real estate formulas apply to every area of life Lessons from Little League World Series to building legacy The difference between drifting and being anchored It's one of the most raw and practical conversations yet—funny, unfiltered, and guaranteed to challenge how you think about success.

You keep praying for a better life — more money, a better marriage, peace of mind — but nothing changes. Why? Because prayer won't fix stupid habits. You can pray all day, but if you're still eating like trash, still blaming everybody else, still out of order… don't expect different results. In this episode, CJ, ET, and Pastor TJ break down why your sequence matters more than your intentions — and why God's blessings aren't missing, you're just out of alignment.

You think staying quiet is keeping the peace — but it's killing your marriage, your friendships, and your opportunities. In this raw conversation from the S2S Podcast, the guys get brutally honest about the damage caused by holding things in for years, avoiding hard conversations, and expecting others to “just know” how you feel. Learn why unspoken frustrations become resentment, how your silence might be teaching your kids unhealthy patterns, and why the same energy you use to make excuses could have already fixed the problem. From marriage lessons to personal breakthroughs, this episode is a wake-up call to speak up, take responsibility, and stop self-sabotaging the relationships that matter most.

Why do people cut you off even after years of loyalty? In this episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET, CJ, Karl, and Jamal break down a truth most people don't want to face: being loyal isn't enough if you're no longer an asset. From Dede's emotional revelation about feeling unprotected, to the raw talk about marriages, business partnerships, and friendships—this episode will challenge how you see your own relationships and the value you bring.

In this episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, the guys go all in on the mindset shift required to break out of survival mode. They challenge the traditional W2 mentality and expose why playing defense in life keeps you stuck. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right but still not getting ahead—this episode is for you. Topics Discussed: Why the W2 mindset is keeping you broke How real wealth starts with real exposure The power of playing offense in your life How Jamal's early moves set up generational wealth Why people criticize your grind but ask to eat from it What it really means to be a value-add in your circle And why you can't save your family with a small mindset

You've got more access to information than any generation in history — so why are most people still stuck? In this powerful episode, the guys break down the real reason proximity to greatness doesn't automatically lead to results: you're learning the moves but not adopting the mindset. From million-dollar real estate lessons to spiritual growth, relationships, and health — this one covers what it really takes to win in life.

Dede is back — and she's not holding back. In one of the rawest episodes we've ever recorded, Dede and Candis join CJ and Eric for an unfiltered conversation about walls, wounds, and the real reason trust is so hard to build — especially in marriage and sisterhood. Whether you're dating, married, or simply trying to grow in emotional maturity, this episode is your mirror. From communication breakdowns to spiritual breakthroughs, you'll hear real strategies, vulnerable confessions, and a challenge to finally tear down the bricks we've all built.

Karl returns from a life-changing mission trip to Kenya — but what started as a service project turned into a soul reset. In this episode, the guys unpack what it really means to live with less, why simplicity brings peace, and how one week of building a school in the mountains revealed what America often distracts us from. From 400 kids with no phones and no complaints, to laying bricks alongside his kids and a 75-year-old volunteer — Karl shares how being on one accord with strangers unlocked more purpose than years of hustle ever could. ✈️ What you'll hear: Why too many options can steal your joy The truth about mission trips: it's not about what you give How silence, service, and sacrifice create lasting transformation And the surprising leadership lesson from a brick wall

Most people want the rewards of success, but aren't willing to do what it takes. In this episode, CJ drops a powerful analogy: the habits of the greats are like broccoli—hard to swallow but life-giving. He shares how adopting “broccoli habits” in fitness, finances, relationships, and business transformed his life from average to avenger-level. ET jumps in with a challenge: stop chasing Krispy Kreme results with cheat-meal commitment. If you're tired of being stuck, this episode will shake your soul.

This week, the fellas take you straight to the Motherland — recording live from Ghana! From the emotional walk through Cape Coast Castle to the powerful reality check about your DNA's hidden strength, CJ, Jemal break down what it means to truly know your history.They unpack raw lessons about endurance, perspective, and how your ancestors' survival story is coded in your blood. This episode will challenge you to stop complaining, tap into your generational resilience, and check your circle, because who you build with today shapes your legacy tomorrow.

Are your feelings stopping your future? In this episode, the guys break down why so many people stay stuck — not because of a lack of skill or opportunity, but because they refuse to take feedback. From relationships to real estate, work to worship, it's time to stop letting your emotions drive the car and start asking the right questions. If you're tired of being in the same place and ready for real growth, this episode is your wake-up call. We're talking feedback, filters, and finally getting RESULTS.

What happens when you're forced to make the hardest decision of your life… and you only have minutes to decide? In this deeply emotional episode, Jemal shares how his father's life was hanging in the balance — and how a choice made decades earlier saved everything. The guys unpack the difference between planning and true preparation, and why waiting until a crisis hits is too late. You'll learn: ✅ Why living in your feelings can cost you everything ✅ How the faith pillar gave Jemal peace in chaos ✅ What it really means to be prepared — spiritually, financially, and emotionally This episode isn't just a conversation — it's a wake-up call to get your house in order before the storm comes. Make Real Estate Real → makerealestaterealcourse.com Forever Forward Marriage → foreverforwardmarriage.com You Matter Youth Camp → etsummerschool.com If this episode challenged or encouraged you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And don't forget to:

What starts as a quick story about turbulence on a flight turns into a hilarious debate:When a random stranger reaches for your hand… What do you do?

This might be the wake-up call you didn't know you needed. What if the vision you're chasing isn't even real? What if you're frustrated, not because you're behind… but because you're living in delusion? In this episode, the guys go all the way in — breaking down the dangerous difference between perception and reality, and how most people sabotage their future by refusing to expose themselves to the truth. You'll hear: Why your vision might be built on lies The hidden traps of tipping culture, insurance, and "they" systems designed to keep you in the dark How exposure shatters delusion and provides the clarity you need to move forward Real talk on homeownership, money moves, and why most people never get wealthy Delusion feels good — until it doesn't. Reality stings, but it leads to real progress. If you're ready to stop pretending and start building a life that actually works… this episode is for you.

You're not stuck because of your job, your past, or your partner… You're stuck because of the lies you believe about yourself. In this episode, the S2S crew unpacks the real reason most people never elevate: self-deception. You're grinding, praying, and planning—but you're out of alignment with the truth. We're calling it out—and giving you the mindset shift to finally move forward. No more delusion. No more excuses. It's time to get free.

This week on the Secret to Success Podcast, the crew dives into a raw, awkward, but absolutely necessary conversation: what happens when your partner stops trying? One listener asks, “Do I tell my wife she never dresses up anymore… or stay quiet to keep the peace?” CJ, ET, Karl, and Jemal open up the uncomfortable truth about relationship expectations, unmet needs, and why most couples are too scared to say what they really want. From misaligned visions to silent resentment, they break down why failing to communicate can slowly destroy even the best marriages. If you're married, dating, or want a healthy relationship, this episode will challenge you hard and give you real steps to fix things — before you lose what you've built.

You ever wonder why your healthy marriage still feels heavy? In this episode, the guys get real about the weight of being the “strong couple” in your circle — the ones everyone runs to when their relationship is falling apart. But what if constantly being surrounded by broken marriages is secretly impacting your own? From secondhand smoke to secondhand divorce, CJ, ET, Karl, and Jemal unpack why healthy couples need spaces to recharge, reset, and be celebrated — not just drained. They introduce a bold new vision: Forever Forward Marriage — an exclusive retreat for healthy marriages only. ▶️ Why healthy marriages need protection ▶️ How Camille nursed Jemal through two surgeries — twice ▶️ The danger of dimming your light for broken couples ▶️ Creating a marriage Olympics — the All-Star Game for couples in bliss ▶️ What real investment in your spouse actually looks like This isn't a marriage conference for broken people — it's a celebration for couples in bliss.

You've got big dreams. You've got ambition. So why does your life still feel off? In this episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET, CJ, Jemal, and Karl break down a truth most people avoid: you're not certified for the life you keep asking for. We don't mean a degree or a license — we're talking about the inner work, the healing, the consistency, and the mastery that separates dreamers from doers. If your life feels unstable, your vision unclear, or your progress slow… this episode will show you why — and what to do next. Because the dream ain't enough.

Most people don't realize their real stress isn't the layoff, the diagnosis, or the bad news — it's the fact that everything in their life is depending on one source. One income. One plan. One backup. And when that one thing fails? Everything starts crashing. In this episode, the guys break down why relying on one stream of income is the fastest route to burnout — and what it looks like to actually prepare for a storm before it comes. If you've ever felt like your world was one unexpected bill away from collapse… this one's for you. You don't have to live in fear. But you do have to prepare.

CJ shares the hilarious and inspiring moment Eric Thomas made him “President” of a company that didn't even exist yet — with nothing but a vintage t-shirt and a vision. From that Embassy Suites meeting to global impact, the guys break down what it means to believe before you see results. Plus: Maul's indoor pool story, food temperature debates, retro checks, and why controlling your environment is key to success. This one's equal parts laughter, legacy, and life lessons.

In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Secret to Success podcast, we're diving deep into the mindset shift that separates the weak from the unstoppable. If you've ever felt stuck, angry, or held back by your past, this is the episode that will force you to take a hard look in the mirror and make a choice: keep making excuses or use your pain as fuel. ET shares powerful, real-life stories—including how he forgave his father, how love is the ultimate weapon, and why true strength isn't about never struggling but about rising up when life knocks you down. We also discuss the difference between people who talk about success and those who become successful—and why your excuses won't cut it anymore. Whether you're facing struggles in relationships, business, or life itself, this episode will challenge you to stop playing victim and start becoming the version of yourself that refuses to lose. Key Takeaways & Action Steps:

In this raw and unfiltered episode of the Secret to Success podcast, CJ, Dr. King, and Douglas hold nothing back as they challenge you to face adversity head-on. Learn why running from tough situations is the fastest way to fail—and how the right mindset can transform obstacles into opportunities. The hosts dive deep into what separates those who thrive under pressure from those who crumble. Discover how to stop letting missed shots and setbacks derail your vision and why mental toughness is the secret weapon of the successful.

Most people chase money, thinking it will bring them happiness—only to feel unfulfilled. In this eye-opening episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET The Hip Hop Preacher and his powerhouse co-hosts break down why your focus needs to shift from transactions to transformation if you truly want to win in life.

In this powerful episode of the Secret to Success Podcast, ET, CJ, Karl, and Dr. Adam Downes dive into the brutal truth about leadership, success, and discipline.

This week on the Secret to Success Podcast, Karl, CJ, ET, and special guest Dr. Adam Downes dive deep into what it takes to build a championship culture. Drawing from Nick Saban's legendary leadership approach, the team explores the formula that propelled Nick Saban to legendary status. Drawing lessons from his unwavering discipline, vision, teamwork, and resourcefulness, this conversation dives deep into how to apply these principles to your personal and professional life. Dr. Downes shares insights from his time around Saban's system, and ET reflects on how the right guidance and mentorship transformed his journey. Whether you're leading a team, pursuing personal goals, or simply aiming to elevate your game, this episode will inspire you to embrace a higher standard and stay committed to the process.

This week on the Secret to Success Podcast, we're diving into the blueprint of building a successful team with family and friends. CJ, Karl, and ET, joined by Mostafa and Brandon, share candid insights from their 20-year journey, including the highs, the lessons, and how they've shattered the stereotype that "business and family don't mix." Listen as they discuss: ✔️ The power of communication and clear expectations. ✔️ How to handle conflict and maintain trust in your relationships. ✔️ The critical distinction between fit and favor when building your team. ✔️ Transformational principles from the free Thrive in 2025 Challenge designed to help you align your business and personal life with biblical values. Don't miss the laughs, the gems, and the stories of triumph that will inspire you to build and lead with purpose. Join us as we teach you how to succeed together—because no one wins alone!

Transforming a vacant property into a $380K opportunity is more than just a real estate win—it's a lesson in vision and execution!

Ready to make 2025 your best year yet? This episode of the Secret to Success Podcast is packed with transformative insights to help YOU break free from fear, boost your confidence, and prioritize your health. Whether you're looking to elevate your mindset, take control of your well-being, or set game-changing goals, this episode delivers the blueprint.

Ready to dominate 2025? In this powerhouse episode, we're laying out the ultimate success blueprint from 2024 to help you crush your goals and maximize your potential. From mindset shifts to actionable strategies, these top 10 success principles are designed to keep you focused, disciplined, and unstoppable all year long. Whether you're aiming to level up in your career, build stronger relationships, or finally take that leap of faith, this episode has the tools you need to make it happen. Get ready to take notes, because 2025 is calling, and it's your time to answer. Tune in, lock in, and let's build a legendary year—together!

As the year comes to a close, we're taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've shared together in 2024. In this special episode, we're revisiting the most unforgettable moments, lessons, and laughs from the past year. From powerful guest interviews to those raw, unfiltered conversations that left us all inspired, this is a celebration of everything we've built together. To our loyal listeners: Thank you for making this community what it is. Your support, feedback, and love have fueled every episode. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's relive the moments that made 2024 one for the books. Here's to growth, gratitude, and getting even better in 2025! ❤️ Tune in now to experience the best of 2024 with us! Patreon Are you ready to take your growth to the next level? Join the Secret to Success Patreon community for exclusive access to live recordings, behind-the-scenes content, and deeper insights you won't hear on the podcast. This is your chance to connect with us, ask your questions directly, and join a driven, like-minded community committed to success. Plus, you'll get early access to episodes and bonus content designed to keep you motivated and focused on your goals. Don't just listen—level up with us! Head over to Patreon.com/S2Spodcast120 to become a Secret To Success Patron! LISTENER PERKS: Shopify is the place to get your business started! Shopify is a complete commerce platform that lets you start, grow, and manage your business online. Has multiple templates available to design your store. Shopify can also integrate with existing software you currently use. Head over to Shopify.com/SecretToSuccess for a $1 per month for three months on select plans. Organifi Is giving our listeners up to 20% off of their order! Just go to www.organifi.com/success. Support your journey from sunrise to sunset with fan-favorite superfoods backed by science to replenish micronutrients, support energy and balance hormones from am to pm with our customer favorites.

Turn Every Setback into Success! In this powerful episode, E.T. and the guys dive deep into invaluable lessons from Joseph's life. Discover how vision, teamwork, and resourcefulness can transform challenges into opportunities. Learn to apply these principles in your own life, unlocking greatness in 2025 and beyond. Join us as we explore the profound impact of emotional maturity and compound interest on personal growth. From hilarious stories to powerful insights, this episode delivers actionable steps to elevate your mindset and achieve lasting success. Whether you're facing adversity or seeking to level up, the Joseph Strategy offers a blueprint for turning setbacks into stepping stones. PATREON "Don't miss out on the ultimate insider experience!