Podcast appearances and mentions of derek champagne

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews John Rossman. John Rossman is the author of The Amazon Way book series, and a Managing Director at Alvarez and Marsal (A&M), a global professional services rm. John is an expert in innovative and digital business models and organizational change, including internet of things (IoT).Prior to A&M, John was an executive at Amazon.com where he launched the third party selling business, which today is over 50% of all Amazon units and supports over 3 million sellers. He is a leading analyst on Amazon and has been featured by the New York Times and CNBC.The Amazon Way series helps managers and leaders build digital strategies and skills. The customer reviews tell the story on the impact these books are having.The Amazon Way: 14 Leadership Principles of the World's Most Disruptive Company is considered the authoritative work on helping business leaders understand how Amazon creates a systematic culture of operational excellence and innovation.The Amazon Way on IoT: 10 Principles for Every Leader from the World's Leading Internet of Things Strategies is a highly reviewed business strategy book outlining the strategies and approaches for using the internet of things to improve operations and innovation.

From interview vault: In this episode Derek Champagne interviews the Founder & CEO of RedHead Wines, Marisa Sergi just after she has landed a deal with WalMart stores. Marisa is a young business owner who is a third generation wine maker. Marisa shares her background, passion for making wine, and the highlights of her entrepreneurial journey.Learn more at https://redheadwine.us

In this episode Derek Champagne talks with Shark Tank veteran Yannis Moati. Yannis is the Founder & CEO of Hotels by Day, which seamlessly unlocks latent intra-day room inventory, bringing guests the flexibility of short stays. Intra-day rooms being the inventory of unsold rooms from the night before pooled with early checkouts.Yannis shares his experiences launching his new business and growing his national brand.Learn more at www.hotelsbyday.com

In this episode Derek Champagne chats with Eddie Yoon. Eddie is a growth strategy expert for the last 20 years as a Partner with The Cambridge Group. In the last 5 years, he has helped double numerous businesses-cable media company, food brand, beverage company, pet food brand, consumer robotics, standby generators-from several hundred million to close to a billion dollars.Eddie is the author of the acclaimed book, Superconsumers: A Simple, Speedy and Sustainable Path to Superior Growth (Harvard Business School Press, 2016). He is also the author of over 40 articles, including Make Your Best Customers Even Better (Harvard Business Review magazine, March 2014) and Why It Pays to Be a Category Creator (Harvard Business Review magazine, March 2013). Eddie has been a keynote speaker in the U.S., Africa, Australia, Denmark, the UK and Japan.

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Siphiwe Baleka. Fox Sports won an Emmy for Changing Lanes: The Siphiwe Baleka story.Siphiwe Baleka is the founder of Fitness Trucking, LLC and serves as the DriverHealth and Fitness Coach at Prime Inc., one of America's largest trucking companies.His innovative, on-the-go wellness program has helped thousands of truckdrivers lose weight and reclaim their health (69% of truck drivers are obese; thetrucking industry is the least healthy of any industry in the country).His premise is that ANYONE with 4 minutes can get fit. What works for truckers can workfor any sedentary person! Formerly, Baleka served as the Driver Health Editorfor both Road King magazine and The Trucking Network magazine. After beingraised in Chicago by a single dad, he graduated from Yale University and is thefirst African American ever named to the First Team All-Ivy League Swim Team.He missed qualifying for the 1992 Olympic Swimming Trials in the 100 freestyleby just 0.8 seconds! He is the author of 4-Minute Fit (Simon & Schuster).

From the interview vault: Derek Champagne talks with pro athlete entrepreneur Rennie Curran about how to (Rennie's phrase) "operate at the level of your vision". As a former NFL player, Rennie shares his experience in transitioning to an entrepreneur and the valuable leadership lessons he's learned along the way.Rennie is the CEO of Game Changer Coaching whose mission is to help business professionals and elite athletes reach their fullest potential through personal development workshops and one-on-one coaching in order to improve leadership and career performance. Key areas of expertise include leadership effectiveness, building effective teams, strategic planning, mental toughness, conflict resolution, overcoming adversity, diversity and inclusion, and personal branding.Rennie is the author of Free Agent: Intangible Assets For Overcoming Adversity and Times of Transition and What Does It Take To Be A Star?, which he co-authored with his daughter.Learn more at https://renniecurran.com/

Interview vault from Derek Champagne's discussion with international business woman Arlene Battishill. Arlene is the co-founder of the International brand GoGo Gear, a Shark Tank veteran, consultant, and best-selling author of the book Retail Therapy: A Prescription For What Ails Your Online Sales. Shark Tank Star, Daymond John, has called Arlene book, Retail Shock Therapy as "a MUST READ for businesses selling online."Arlene talks with Derek about building her brand, testing her product, shifting with the marketplace, her experience on Shark Tank, and tips for building effective communication that resonates with your target audience.

We pulled one of our favorite interviews from the BLS interview archives where Derek Champagne interviews Michael Levin. This was a powerful interview and Michael overdelivered as our guest! As one of the most established writers in the nation, New York Times best-selling author Michael Levin has written or co-written more than 100 books, of which eleven are national best sellers.He appeared on ABC's Shark Tank on January 20th, 2012. In the past, Michael has published with Simon & Schuster, Random House, St. Martin's Press, Putnam/Berkley, and many other houses. His works have been optioned for film and TV by Steven Soderbergh/Paramount, HBO, Disney, ABC, and others. One of his own novels became Model Behavior, an ABC Sunday night Disney movie of the week. He has also made contributions to the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Forbes.com, Politico, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe, the Jerusalem Post, Writers Digest, CBS News. Michael has had the experience to teach writing classes at the University of California – Los Angeles and New York University. As an Amherst College and Columbia Law School graduate, Michael served for many years as a member of the prestigious Authors Guild Council and as Treasurer of the Authors Guild Foundation.Michael currently resides with his wife and four children in Boston, Massachusetts. Learn more about Michael at www.businessghost.com

In this episode Derek Champagne is on the other side of the interview as a guest on Motivational Mondays, an amazing London-based podcast, hosted by Abigale Otchere.Derek talks about coming from humble beginnings, his years as a Hollywood musician, his rock bottom and overcoming obstacles, celebrating 15 years as an agency owner, how he ultimately measures success, and becoming a legacy entrepreneur.Learn more at www.businessleadershipseries.com

In this episode Derek Champagne, Founder & CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Sean Wittenberg. Sean has been featured on ABC hit tv show Shark Tank and is the President & Founder of Safe Catch Inc.Sean is on a mission to make a positive impact on our world and he is well on his way! He talks with Derek about motivation behind developing his technology and company, how he maintains his passion and focus, and what's next for his industry.Safe Catch is an award nominee at Expo West for its 100% mercury tested canned tuna. Purity for pregnant women, kids and top athletes. Safe Catch pack and cook methods result in more purity, nutrients and Omega 3s for peak performance and recovery. SafeCatch.com.People, globally, want to live happy, healthy lives and unilaterally recognize that a healthy diet is key. Safe Catch provides the purity and nutrients to give all consumers, around the world, the ability to eat seafood with confidence.The last 10 years has been spent developing the world's first technology capable of testing every fish for impurities. Never before has a company been able to guarantee seafood purity for consumers.Learn more at www.safecatch.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Youtube sensation and 2x Shark Tank guest Aaron Marino! Aaron Marino, successful entrepreneur and Founder of Pete & Pedro, gives us valuable insight on growing a brand, learning from failures, and building a content machine with millions of engaged followers.Learn more at www.aaronmarino.com

Derek Champagne interviews Mike Caprari. In addition to being the stars of a highly watched episode of MSNBC's popular tv show The Profit, Mike Caprari is a passionate musician and entrepreneur. Mike is the SVP of Marketing and Co Founder of SJC Custom Drums. His product is played and endorsed by some of the world's top musicians and bands.Mike talks with us about his journey of building his business, his experience on The Profit, learning from mistakes, developing authentic customer relationships, engaging with customers on social media, and building the right team. Learn more at www.sjcdrums.com

In this week's interview, Derek Champagne talks with Shark Tank veteran Steven Sashen. Steven talks with Derek about building an international business, stepping in the Shark Tank, and even his days of stand up comedy.Steven is the developer and CEO of Xero Shoes • Your Original Barefootware – www.XeroShoes.com. Steven and his wife, Lena Phoenix, started the “Barefoot… PLUS!” sandal business in late 2009; he had returned to sprinting 2 years earlier, at age 45, and experienced almost continuous injuries. An experiment with running barefoot cured the injuries and improved his times. Knowing about the Tarahumara indians in Mexico, who run hundreds of miles in sandals made of tire scraps lashed to their feet, Steven created a high-tech upgrade of that product and launched it online.With nothing but Search Engine Marketing and Social Media Marketing, Xero Shoes has become the best-selling running sandal in the world.Steven's commitment is to making footwear that lets customers connect with the ground and “Feel The World,” fits perfectly, express wearer's personalities, outlasts any other footwear, and uses fewer resources than any other footwear. He's also committed to discovering and teaching the best techniques for teaching natural movement — for walking, hiking, and running.Prior to jumping into the sandal business, Steven was an internationally-known Internet marketing expert, Search Engine and Social Media marketing consultant, and software designer. He also co-hosted the Emmy award winning, internationally syndicated TV show, Disk Doctors.Steven is also a Masters All-American sprinter, one of the fastest 50+ year olds in the United States.Learn more at www.xeroshoes.com

In this episode Derek Champagne talks with Melissa Gersin. Melissa was  featured on the hit tv show Shark Tank and shares her transformation from maternity RN to inventor and business owner.Based on 5 years of experience as a maternity RN, Melissa invented and designed the Tranquilo Mat – the only portable, versatile soothing mat for babies. Listen in as she shares her long journey in launching the product, challenges along the way, and ultimately triumph!

In this episode, Derek Champagne interviews Devin Thorpe. As a new-media journalist and founder of the Your Mark on the World Center, Devin has established himself as a champion of social good. Devin was formerly the CFO of one of the top 3 Fortune 500 companies in 2009 before shifting his attention to social entrepreneurship.As a Forbes contributor, with more than 250 bylines and over one million unique visitors, he has become a recognized name in the social impact arena. His YouTube show, featuring celebrities, CEOs, billionaires and entrepreneurs who are out to change the world, has been viewed over 200,000 times, giving him a recognizable face as well.Devin is also a noted author with 4 popular books that have raving reviews and over 1,000,000 downloads to date.Devin calls himself a champion of social good. As an author, speaker and Forbes contributor he focuses on helping those doing good in the world.www.devinthorpe.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, chats with tv executive and consultant, Jen Grisanti, about being the active hero in your own story.International speaker Jen Grisanti is an acclaimed Story/Career Consultant at Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc. Grisanti is also a Writing Instructor for Writers on the Verge at NBC, a former studio executive, a blogger for The Huffington Post and author of Story Line: Finding Gold In Your Life Story, TV Writing Tool Kit: How To Write a Script That Sells, and her upcoming book, Change Your Story, Change Your Life.Twenty-Three years ago, Grisanti started her career as an assistant to Aaron Spelling, who served as her mentor for 12 years. She quickly climbed the ranks and eventually ran Current Programs at Spelling Television Inc., covering all of Spelling's shows including Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place and Charmed. In 2004, Grisanti was promoted to Vice President of Current Programs at CBS/Paramount where she covered numerous shows including Medium, Numbers, NCIS, 4400 and Girlfriends.In January 2008, Grisanti launched Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc., a highly successful consulting firm dedicated to helping talented writers break into the industry. Drawing on her years of experience as a studio executive where she gave daily notes to executive producers/showrunners, Grisanti personally guides writers to shape their material, hone their pitches and focus their careers. Since launching her consulting firm, Grisanti worked with over 800 writers specializing in television, features and novels. Due to her guidance, seventy-five of her clients have staffed as writers on television shows, forty have sold pilots, and five of those pilots have gone to series. Learn more at www.jengrisanti.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Shark Tank Veteran John Wise. John has an MBA from Harvard and is the Co Founder and COO of LovePop, a company that scored a deal with Mr. Wonderful on the TV show Shark Tank and is disrupting the greeting card industry.John talks with Derek about launching their Kickstarter campaign, having transparency and trust with your partners and team, how his network helped them to launch, and his experience before, during, and after Shark Tank.

Derek Champagne sits down for a special conversation with his dear friend, Charles Kochel. Charles is a husband, father, entrepreneur, and author. Charles is also the CEO of Infinity Blue, North America, a borderless e-commerce agency helping brands engage with new customers on multiple platforms and continents. Charles talks with us about business, life…and cancer. Charles new must-read book is More: A Mindful Guide To Intentional LivingIn More, Charles Kochel presents a heartfelt exploration of what truly matters in life: spirituality, health, relationships, time, and freedom. This book is not about imparting absolute truths but rather about encouraging readers to embark on their own unique journeys toward fulfillment. Through personal stories and valuable lessons, Kochel invites you to reflect on your path, recognize your potential, and embrace the richness of life. With an emphasis on mindfulness and intentionality, More serves as a guide to inspire you to live fully, love deeply, and discover the beauty in every moment. Join Kochel on this transformative journey and empower yourself to do more and be better. Order a copy of Charle's book at https://kochelhill.com/

Derek Champagne interviews former NFL play and entrepreneur, Marques Ogden. Marques, the best-selling author of "Sleepless Nights: The NFL: a Business and Family", talks with Derek about his childhood years, playing in the NFL, his entrepreneurial journey, and leadership lessons along the way.Growing up in a single-parent home with a father that inspired and demonstrated perseverance and fairness, Marques Ogden learned how to define his values and set goals. Marques attended Howard University from 1998-2002, where he played Division I football. He followed his dream and his brother Jonathan's footsteps and was drafted into the NFL in 2003. At the age of 27, he founded a construction company called Kayden Premier Enterprises, a business that grew rapidly in its first few years, but he lost the business after a bad business endeavor. At his lowest point, the NFL and lessons he learned from his father and coaches, helped him restructure his life.Learn more at https://www.marquesogden.com

Derek Champagne is a serial entrepreneur with over 18 years of experience developing effective marketing campaigns. He is the Founder & CEO of The Artist Evolution, A full service agency building memorable brands, marketing tools and campaigns for startups to household brands. Derek is also the author of the best-selling marketing book: Don't Buy a Duck and the host of the Business Leadership Series podcast. What problem do we solve? The podcast solves the problem of ineffective marketing for small business owners. It provides practical advice and strategies to help businesses stop wasting money on marketing and focus on what works. The expert discusses the five common mistakes businesses make in marketing and offers solutions to avoid them. Derek also emphasizes the importance of understanding your brand and target audience having a well-defined marketing plan, and consistent execution. Small Business Answer Man Show Notes: Many businesses make impulsive marketing decisions, leading to wasted money and ineffective campaigns. Knowing who you are and what makes you unique is essential for effective marketing. Understand your target audience and their needs to create relevant and engaging content. Utilize the appropriate tools and platforms for your business to reach your target audience. Develop a well-thought-out plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and tactics. Consistently implement your marketing plan to achieve results. Make marketing decisions based on data and strategy, not emotions. Plan, Execute, Track, Measure, Adjust, Grow. Consult with marketing professionals or mentors to get expert guidance. Focus on the most effective marketing channels and strategies for your business. Derek Champagne Advice for Leaders: Clearly define who you are and what makes you unique. Understand your ideal customers' needs, pain points, and online behavior. Evaluate your website, social media, and email marketing for effectiveness. Set goals, develop a strategy, and allocate a budget. Track results, make adjustments, and stay committed to your plan. Consider hiring a marketing consultant or agency if needed. Learn from their experiences and share best practices. Keep informed about the latest techniques and technologies. Make informed choices based on strategy and data. Focus on what works and eliminate ineffective tactics. Connect with Derek Champagne: Get your free book and a free marketing assessment at assessmymarketing.com theartistevolution.com DerekChampagne.com Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Clarity Navigator Discovery Session – Sign Up HERE Learn more about Gary's Mastermind group at goascend.biz/the-mastermind-solution

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Brian Buffini, author of the New York Times best-selling book, The Emigrant Edge: How To Make It Big In America.Brian Buffini emigrated from Ireland at the age of nineteen, with only ninety-two dollars in hispocket. Today, as the founder of Buffini & Company, the largest business training company in North America, he is one of the nation's top business experts. In his engaging  book, THE EMIGRANT EDGE: How To Make It Big In America (Howard Books, August 2017), he shares the secret of his success: a mix of seven qualities that make up what he calls the Emigrant Edge.“Successful immigrants think and work differently than the average American,” Buffini writes. “When they leave everything behind, they keep their dream of success uppermost in their mind.” Through his own experiences as well as those of others, Buffini describes how the sacrifices made to come to America, the lack of a safety net, and the advantages of a fresh start, set the stage for success.The good news for everyone, Buffini says, is that the seven traits immigrants share are wholly transferable, no matter where a person is born, or what his or her circumstances are.“Imitating these traits will equip anyone to thrive and succeed,” he contends.Learn more: https://www.brianbuffini.com/the-emigrant-edge.aspx

Derek Champagne interviews Nick Friedman. Nick has been featured on Oprah (2x), the hit tv show Shark Tank, Millionaire Matchmaker, and is the Co-Founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk.World-class speaker, bestselling author, founder of a national franchise, and TV personality, Nick's story is as incredible as they come. But what sets him apart is just how much fun he has along the way.Nick talks with Derek about building a successful brand, working ON not IN your business, and intentionality in building your team and culture.Over a decade ago, Nick co-founded College Hunks Hauling Junk, now a multi-million dollar national franchise. This success set off a chain of dominos, as Nick became not only an entrepreneur – but a dominant speaker, author, and TV personality as well.Nick has been on Millionaire Matchmaker, The Pitch, House Hunters, Jobs That Don't Suck, and Below Deck. Each “performed incredibly well compared to other episodes of those shows that had aired at the time”, according to Alan Moore, a Casting Agent from APA Agency.Learn more at:www.collegehunkshaulingjunk.comwww.nickfriedman.com

Derek Champagne talks with Beth Comstock, former Chief Marketing Officer and then Vice Chair of Innovation at GE. For almost 3 decades Beth led efforts to accelerate new growth, develop digital and clean-energy futures, seed new businesses and enhance brand value.As President of Integrated Media at NBC Universal , Beth oversaw TV ad revenue and digital media efforts, including the early development of hulu.com Prior to this, she held a succession of roles at NBC, CBS and CNN/Turner Broadcasting.Beth is currently a director at Nike, trustee of The National Geographic Society, and former board president of the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian National Design Museum.Beth's book “Imagine It Forward: Courage, Creativity, and the Power of Change” is an inspiring, fresh, candid, and deeply personal book about how to grapple with the challenges to change we face every day. It is a different kind of narrative, a big picture book that combines Comstock's personal story in leading change with vital lessons on overcoming the inevitable roadblocks.Learn more at https://www.bethcomstock.info/

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Brian Scudamore. Brian talks with Derek about setting goals, hiring the right team, building a culture, and how he built his successful franchising empire. Brian is a franchising genius and has built an empire of solid brands with a great team and authentic culture. O2E Brands is the banner company for home-service brands 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, WOW 1 DAY PAINTING, You Move Me, and Shack Shine.Brian started his business in Vancouver, Canada at the age of 18, and later went on to franchise 1-800-GOT-JUNK? as a way to expand operations. Today, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has 1000 trucks on the road throughout some 180 locations in Canada, the United States, and Australia.Brian has received wide recognition in the media and business community. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has celebrated appearances on the highly-acclaimed Undercover Boss Canada, Dr. Oz, Dr. Phil, CNN, ABC Nightline, the Today Show, The Hour with George Stroumboulopoulos, and the View. His story has been told in Fortune Magazine, Business Week, New York Times, Huffington Post, and Wall Street Journal, to name a few. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is currently the starring junk removal attraction on the hit A&E reality show, Hoarders. In addition to interviews and guest appearances, Brian contributes written articles on building a business and entrepreneurism to many national magazines, including a monthly column in PROFIT Magazine.In 2004, Brian was inducted into the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) and served as a board member for the Young Entrepreneurs' Organization (YEO). In 2007, Brian was honored to have been named the International Franchise Association's Entrepreneur of the Year. Other accolades include Fortune Small Business' Best Bosses Award, Globe & Mail's Top 40 under 40, and a three-time winner of a prestigious “Best Company To Work For” award.As a public speaker, Brian has brought his entrepreneurial success story to many conference stages, including the Fortune Small Business Magazine's national conference. A strong believer in personal and professional development, Brian graduated from MIT's four-year Birthing of Giants program, and has subsequently completed several years of MIT's BOG's alumni program, Gathering of Titans. He is also a participant in a nine-year executive education program at Harvard University through YPO Presidents' University.Learn more at www.o2ebrands.com

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews noted businessman George Maloof. George is the former owner of the NBA Sacramento Kings, Palms Casino & Resort in Las Vegas, and the NHL Vegas Golden Knights.George discusses his  NHL hockey team, how he deals with setbacks, what success looks like, and how important customer service is to his brand. 

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Tim Sanders. Tim Sanders spent most of his early career on the cutting edge of innovation and change. He was an early stage member of Mark Cuban's Broadcast.com, which had the largest opening day IPO in history. After Yahoo acquired the company, Tim was tapped to lead their ValueLab, and by 2001, he rose to Chief Solutions Officer. In 2005, he founded Deeper Media, which provides consulting services for leading brands. Today, he is one of the top-rated speakers on the lecture circuit.Tim is the author of four books, including the New York Times bestseller Love Is the Killer App: How To Win Business & Influence Friends. It's been translated into over a dozen languages and has been featured in Fast Company, USA Today, the New York Times, The Boston Globe, Christian Science Monitor and on CNN.He's a master storyteller who offers listeners actionable takeaways that produce results right away. That's why he's one of the top speakers on the lecture circuit.Learn more at www.timsanders.com

In this episode Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Melissa Lay.Melissa shares how she started her unique clothing company, her experience when she found her product in Target stores nationwide, being on Shark Tank, and growing her national lifestyle brand.Learn more at www.sandilakeclothing.com

In this episode Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Peter Winick.Peter Winick is the Founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage, a company that helps thought leaders turn foundational ideas into thriving businesses. He is an entrepreneurial-minded director who leverages the power of internal and external relationships, accelerating the growthof aspiring thought leaders and exponentially increasing the value of their intellectual property. For over twenty years, Peter has worked with thought leaders to monetize their content by developing products and solutions applicable to large enterprises. Further, his accomplishments with start-ups, turnarounds, and M&A (in the b2b services sector) have equipped him with the ability to drive results using practical strategy, focused execution, and a disciplined method of cost control.As an information junkie and avid reader of business books, he is capable of taking great content and creating a platform to best support it through a combination of art, science, logic, focus, passion and creativity.Peter knows that visionaries, whether speakers, authors, corporate leaders, or just really smart people, need help with moving beyond one-book-one-gig. He's here to bring you solutions.Learn more at www.thoughtleadershipleverage.com

Derek Champagne talks with David Lane, entrepreneur and CEO of Lunatix. David shares his entrepreneurial journey. He shares valuable advice about recognizing warning signs, knowing when to pivot, recognizing key opportunities within what you are already doing, and removing blinders.Lunatix is the first ticket site where sports fans can buy the regular season and get the post season. They can buy concert or theatre tickets and get the post season.Lunatix description: We are diehards, loyal, fanatical about our teams. We have to be at the biggest games... We are all Lunatix!Lane's professional experience includes twenty years of C-level experience and leading business units with a number of well-known sports and media businesses such as FanDuel, TouchTunes, and Outfront (Formerly CBS Outdoor).David has been featured in several publications and is considered an expert in the sports ticketing industry frequently speaking on industry related topics and trends.Learn more at https://lunatix.com/

Derek Champagne chats with Michael Dweck. Michael, the co-founder of Basic Outfitters, was recently named to Forbes 30 under 30 list and has appeared on the ABC hit t.v. show Shark Tank. He talks with Derek about his entrepreneurial journey, defining success, and his experience in "the tank".In 2014, Basic Outfitters co-founders Laura and Michael Dweck married and moved into a cozy apartment in NYC. It was quickly obvious whose clothing collection would take precedence in their precious and limited closet space. Michael's eclectic and long-time accumulated sock and underwear assortment would have to go and be replaced by a fresh, new and curated collection of basics.When it came time to refill his drawers, Michael was faced with the choice of expensive designer products or cheap, generic and poorly made basics, both of which would entail a stressful shopping experience. Michael and Laura recognized the overwhelming need for superior and affordable men's essentials offered to customers in a convenient, easy-to-use way. And thus, Basic Outfitters was born.Learn more at www.basicoutfitters.com  

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Shark Tank veteran Evan Delahanty. Evan is the Founder and Lead for Peaceful Fruits LLC, a social good startup that produces premium dried fruit snacks from sustainably-sourced acai. Evan shares his entrepreneurial journey, his approach to community engagement, and his experience on the hit ABC television show Shark Tank.Learn more at www.peacefulfruits.com

In this episode Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, talks with Christopher Lochhead. Christopher is the co-author of Harper Collins' “instant classic” Play Bigger: How Pirates, Dreamers and Innovators Create and Dominate Markets and he's the co-host of the Legends and Losers podcast.Christopher is a former three-time public company CMO and entrepreneur. Fast Company Magazine calls him a “Human Exclamation Point” and The Economist calls him “off-putting to some.” At 18 he got thrown out of school and withno other options he started a company. After 30 years in business he's mostly retired. From time to time he coaches a courageous CEO and exec team in category design and marketing. He can recite much of The Big Lebowski, but can't remember his wife's phone number. He's an butt-kicking speaker, surf and ski bum and proud advisor to non-profit 1 Life Fully Lived, living happily ever after in Santa Cruz California.Learn more at:www.PlayBigger.comwww.Lochhead.com

In this episode Derek Champagne talks with Options for Community Living CEO, Yolanda Robano-Gross, and NFL Standout, Erik Coleman. Yolanda and Erik share a spotlight on the current epidemic of mental health and homelessness, how their organization is addressing the problem, and how we can take action in our own communities.  Learn more at https://optionscl.org/Yolanda Robano-Gross joined Options for Community Living (Options) as Chief Executive Officer in 2014 with more than twenty years of prior executive-level experience within the health care industry. She is responsible for oversight of all agency affairs and reports to the Board of Directors. Responsibilities include fiscal management of an annual budget of over $24 million, personnel management, program development, and fundraising. She earned her master's in health care administration from Hofstra University, master's in social work from Yeshiva University, and her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Marist College.  She holds a certificate in Executive Education, Non-Profit Leadership from The Fordham Center for Non-Profit Leaders.Erik Coleman is a former NFL standout, businessman, philanthropist, and sought-after sports analyst who uses his on-field experience, extensive knowledge of sports, and robust personality to bring new and exciting insight to fans across the globe. After a stellar collegiate career as the captain of the Washington State football team, Coleman was drafted in the fifth round by the New York Jets in 2004. Coleman played nine consecutive seasons in the NFL with the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, and the Detroit Lions. Recognized for his unwavering work ethic and passion for the game, Coleman became the first New York Jets player ever to earn the NFL Rookie Defensive Player of the Month Award since the honor's inception in 1996 and finished his rookie season as the NFL's highest grossing member of its performance-pay program, the league's plan for rewarding low-salary players who outperform their contracts. During his NFL tenure, Coleman's highlights include 653 combined career tackles and assists, 11 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, and 37 passes defended and served as the player-elected NFL Players Association Team Representative five out of his nine years in the league. Since his retirement in 2013, Coleman has become a TV analyst for the New York Jets' “Jets Pregame Central”, “Jets Post Game Show”, SiriusXM NFL Radio's “Sunday Kickoff”, CBS NY's “Jets Late Night” and MSG Network's “The Betting Exchange.” He also frequently appears as a sports commentator on several sports shows and network programs such as The Sean Hannity Show and FOX & Friends. Coleman is an active philanthropist who supports several causes close to his heart such as sickle cell anemia, pediatric cancer, mental health, and traumatic brain injury, to name a few.  Most recently, Coleman started assisting The Alliance for Nonprofit Growth & Opportunity (TANGO) to help assist nonprofits grow through education, preferred services, and mission support. He is a board member for the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF) and a mentor for My Brother's Keeper Mentorship Program.  Moreover, Coleman is the proud recipient of Manhattan Youth Baseball Excellence in Sports & Philanthropy Award. When Coleman isn't working or giving back to the community, he enjoys spending time with his wife Sabrina and their three beautiful children.   

In this episode Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Kavit Haria.From a young age, Kavit Haria learned to play “the world's most dificult percussion instrument”, the Tabla. Having immersed himself in learning about artist promotion, Kavit began to raise his profile and performed across the UK at venues large and small, with many artists (including Jimmy Page at the Royal Albert Hall) and recorded albums at the famed Abbey Road studios.Recognizing the demand for sharing what he learned gave rise to Kavit's first company, Insider Music Business. Within five years, from 2005 to 2010, Kavit created thirty-five different educational products online, from ebooks to video courses and audio training to membership programs, which he promoted to the growing database of 120,000 musicians and hit 7 figures in revenue.Kavit then turned to share his marketing automation strategies at business conferences in the UK and ran private workshops for small business owners in New York,Sydney and London.Since 2013, Kavit has been running Automated Business System, a flagship service to help experts and brands strategies, build, launch and market their businesses online. He has helped launch and grow 120+ businesses for clients, generating $100,000 or more in their first year online sales.Now, Kavit puts the knowledge and inspiration from his 10-years of building businesses into his book, Don't Sleep On It! Turn Your Passion & Expertise Into A Profitable Business.Learn more at https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Sleep-Expertise-Profitable-Business/dp/1683509854

Derek Champagne talks with Alden Mills about his inspiring personal journey to overcoming obstacles, his impressive professional career, and building and leading unstoppable Teams.Alden began taking control of his life at age twelve, when his doctor told him to learn chess because his asthma would keep him from playing sports. His first goal was to conquer the asthma, and he went on to achieve extraordinary things in sports, academics, military service, business, and philanthropy.Alden became a nationally ranked rower, a gold medalist in the Olympic Festival, and captain of the freshman and varsity teams at the U.S. Naval Academy. As a Navy SEAL he led his platoon through multiple missions.After discharge from the military, he founded Perfect Fitness and led it to growth of over 12,000% annual sales of $90 million, and Inc. magazine recognition as the fastest-growing consumer products in America in just three years. He developed over 40 patents, including the Perfect Pushup, Perfect Pullup, Perfect Sit-up and Perfect Ab Carver.Alden's books include Be Unstoppable: The 8 Essential Actions to Succeed at Anything and Unstoppable Teams: The Four Essential Actions of High-Performance Leadership. He has been featured on ABC's Nightline, CBS This Morning,The Big Idea with Donny Deutsch, and more. He serves on boards of a number of non-profits.For tools and resources to help you become unstoppable, visit Alden-Mills.com.

Derek Champagne talks with pro athlete entrepreneur Rennie Curran about how to (Rennie's phrase) "operate at the level of your vision". As a former NFL player, Rennie shares his experience in transitioning to an entrepreneur and the valuable leadership lessons he's learned along the way.Rennie is the CEO of Game Changer Coaching whose mission is to help business professionals and elite athletes reach their fullest potential through personal development workshops and one-on-one coaching in order to improve leadership and career performance. Key areas of expertise include leadership effectiveness, building effective teams, strategic planning, mental toughness, conflict resolution, overcoming adversity, diversity and inclusion, and personal branding.Rennie is the author of Free Agent: Intangible Assets For Overcoming Adversity and Times of Transition and What Does It Take To Be A Star?, which he co-authored with his daughter.Learn more at https://renniecurran.com/

From our interview vault:  Derek Champagne's discussion with Eric Partaker.  Eric has been "CEO of the Year", Top 30 Entrepreneur, and High Performance Expert. He helps ambitious entrepreneurs, leaders, and coaches reach the top of their game.Eric shares his personal story of success in business and then having a near heart attack while flying back to London. This is a must listen to episode for learning how to be successful in life AND business!Eric has been named one of the "Top 30 Entrepreneurs in the UK", 35 and under, by Startups Magazine, and among "Britain's 27 Most Disruptive Entrepreneurs" by The Telegraph. His work has featured on over 7 major TV stations, as well as in the Wall Street Journal and The Economist. He has appeared as a guest judge with Lord Alan Sugar on the The Apprentice and cooked together with Tana Ramsay on UKTV's Market Kitchen.Eric has worked with and led high-performing teams at McKinsey & Company, Skype, and Chilango. He is one of 300 people worldwide certified as a High Performance Coach, by the High Performance Institute. Over the last 20 years he has studied and modeled the traits and habits of the world's most successful people, in order to help his teams and clients break through their barriers and reach their highest potential, in both their work and life.As co-founder and CEO of Chilango, Eric oversees overall company strategy, operations, and marketing as well as product, brand, and culture development. Chilango has been voted "London's Best Burritos" by Zagat, Harden's, Time Out, and The Evening Standard. It has been described by Elite Business Magazine as "arguably the most exciting fast food company of the decade" and profiled as one of the "Best Chain Restaurants Around the World" by Conde Naste Traveler. Chilango is also the most successfully crowdfunded restaurant chain in the world.Prior to Chilango Eric helped build Skype's multi-billion dollar success story, served as the Managing Director of a Norwegian non-profit focused on stimulating entrepreneurship, and started his career as a consultant with McKinsey & Company.Learn more at: www.ericpartaker.com

Interview vault from Derek Champagne's discussion with international business woman Arlene Battishill. Arlene is the co-founder of the International brand GoGo Gear, a Shark Tank veteran, consultant, and best-selling author of the book Retail Therapy: A Prescription For What Ails Your Online Sales. Shark Tank Star, Daymond John, has called Arlene book, Retail Shock Therapy as "a MUST READ for businesses selling online."Arlene talks with Derek about building her brand, testing her product, shifting with the marketplace, her experience on Shark Tank, and tips for building effective communication that resonates with your target audience.

We pulled one of our favorite interviews from the BLS interview archives where Derek Champagne interviews Michael Levin. This was a powerful interview and Michael overdelivered as our guest! As one of the most established writers in the nation, New York Times best-selling author Michael Levin has written or co-written more than 100 books, of which eleven are national best sellers.He appeared on ABC's Shark Tank on January 20th, 2012. In the past, Michael has published with Simon & Schuster, Random House, St. Martin's Press, Putnam/Berkley, and many other houses. His works have been optioned for film and TV by Steven Soderbergh/Paramount, HBO, Disney, ABC, and others. One of his own novels became Model Behavior, an ABC Sunday night Disney movie of the week. He has also made contributions to the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Forbes.com, Politico, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe, the Jerusalem Post, Writers Digest, CBS News. Michael has had the experience to teach writing classes at the University of California – Los Angeles and New York University. As an Amherst College and Columbia Law School graduate, Michael served for many years as a member of the prestigious Authors Guild Council and as Treasurer of the Authors Guild Foundation.Michael currently resides with his wife and four children in Boston, Massachusetts. Learn more about Michael at www.businessghost.com

In this episode Derek Champagne is on the other side of the interview as a guest on Motivational Mondays, an amazing London-based podcast, hosted by Abigale Otchere.Derek talks about coming from humble beginnings, his years as a Hollywood musician, his rock bottom and overcoming obstacles, celebrating 15 years as an agency owner, how he ultimately measures success, and becoming a legacy entrepreneur.Learn more at www.businessleadershipseries.com

In this episode Derek Champagne, Founder & CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Sean Wittenberg. Sean has been featured on ABC hit tv show Shark Tank and is the President & Founder of Safe Catch Inc.Sean is on a mission to make a positive impact on our world and he is well on his way! He talks with Derek about motivation behind developing his technology and company, how he maintains his passion and focus, and what's next for his industry.Safe Catch is an award nominee at Expo West for its 100% mercury tested canned tuna. Purity for pregnant women, kids and top athletes. Safe Catch pack and cook methods result in more purity, nutrients and Omega 3s for peak performance and recovery. SafeCatch.com.People, globally, want to live happy, healthy lives and unilaterally recognize that a healthy diet is key. Safe Catch provides the purity and nutrients to give all consumers, around the world, the ability to eat seafood with confidence.The last 10 years has been spent developing the world's first technology capable of testing every fish for impurities. Never before has a company been able to guarantee seafood purity for consumers.Learn more at www.safecatch.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Youtube sensation and 2x Shark Tank guest Aaron Marino! Aaron Marino, successful entrepreneur and Founder of Pete & Pedro, gives us valuable insight on growing a brand, learning from failures, and building a content machine with millions of engaged followers.Learn more at www.aaronmarino.com

Derek Champagne interviews Mike Caprari. In addition to being the stars of a highly watched episode of MSNBC's popular tv show The Profit, Mike Caprari is a passionate musician and entrepreneur. Mike is the SVP of Marketing and Co Founder of SJC Custom Drums. His product is played and endorsed by some of the world's top musicians and bands.Mike talks with us about his journey of building his business, his experience on The Profit, learning from mistakes, developing authentic customer relationships, engaging with customers on social media, and building the right team. Learn more at www.sjcdrums.com

In this week's interview, Derek Champagne talks with Shark Tank veteran Steven Sashen. Steven talks with Derek about building an international business, stepping in the Shark Tank, and even his days of stand up comedy.Steven is the developer and CEO of Xero Shoes • Your Original Barefootware – www.XeroShoes.com. Steven and his wife, Lena Phoenix, started the “Barefoot… PLUS!” sandal business in late 2009; he had returned to sprinting 2 years earlier, at age 45, and experienced almost continuous injuries. An experiment with running barefoot cured the injuries and improved his times. Knowing about the Tarahumara indians in Mexico, who run hundreds of miles in sandals made of tire scraps lashed to their feet, Steven created a high-tech upgrade of that product and launched it online.With nothing but Search Engine Marketing and Social Media Marketing, Xero Shoes has become the best-selling running sandal in the world.Steven's commitment is to making footwear that lets customers connect with the ground and “Feel The World,” fits perfectly, express wearer's personalities, outlasts any other footwear, and uses fewer resources than any other footwear. He's also committed to discovering and teaching the best techniques for teaching natural movement — for walking, hiking, and running.Prior to jumping into the sandal business, Steven was an internationally-known Internet marketing expert, Search Engine and Social Media marketing consultant, and software designer. He also co-hosted the Emmy award winning, internationally syndicated TV show, Disk Doctors.Steven is also a Masters All-American sprinter, one of the fastest 50+ year olds in the United States.Learn more at www.xeroshoes.com

In this episode Derek Champagne talks with Melissa Gersin. Melissa was  featured on the hit tv show Shark Tank and shares her transformation from maternity RN to inventor and business owner.Based on 5 years of experience as a maternity RN, Melissa invented and designed the Tranquilo Mat – the only portable, versatile soothing mat for babies. Listen in as she shares her long journey in launching the product, challenges along the way, and ultimately triumph!

In this episode, Derek Champagne interviews Devin Thorpe. As a new-media journalist and founder of the Your Mark on the World Center, Devin has established himself as a champion of social good. Devin was formerly the CFO of one of the top 3 Fortune 500 companies in 2009 before shifting his attention to social entrepreneurship.As a Forbes contributor, with more than 250 bylines and over one million unique visitors, he has become a recognized name in the social impact arena. His YouTube show, featuring celebrities, CEOs, billionaires and entrepreneurs who are out to change the world, has been viewed over 200,000 times, giving him a recognizable face as well.Devin is also a noted author with 4 popular books that have raving reviews and over 1,000,000 downloads to date.Devin calls himself a champion of social good. As an author, speaker and Forbes contributor he focuses on helping those doing good in the world.www.devinthorpe.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, chats with tv executive and consultant, Jen Grisanti, about being the active hero in your own story.International speaker Jen Grisanti is an acclaimed Story/Career Consultant at Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc. Grisanti is also a Writing Instructor for Writers on the Verge at NBC, a former studio executive, a blogger for The Huffington Post and author of Story Line: Finding Gold In Your Life Story, TV Writing Tool Kit: How To Write a Script That Sells, and her upcoming book, Change Your Story, Change Your Life.Twenty-Three years ago, Grisanti started her career as an assistant to Aaron Spelling, who served as her mentor for 12 years. She quickly climbed the ranks and eventually ran Current Programs at Spelling Television Inc., covering all of Spelling's shows including Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place and Charmed. In 2004, Grisanti was promoted to Vice President of Current Programs at CBS/Paramount where she covered numerous shows including Medium, Numbers, NCIS, 4400 and Girlfriends.In January 2008, Grisanti launched Jen Grisanti Consultancy, Inc., a highly successful consulting firm dedicated to helping talented writers break into the industry. Drawing on her years of experience as a studio executive where she gave daily notes to executive producers/showrunners, Grisanti personally guides writers to shape their material, hone their pitches and focus their careers. Since launching her consulting firm, Grisanti worked with over 800 writers specializing in television, features and novels. Due to her guidance, seventy-five of her clients have staffed as writers on television shows, forty have sold pilots, and five of those pilots have gone to series. Learn more at www.jengrisanti.com

Derek Champagne, CEO of The Artist Evolution, interviews Shark Tank Veteran John Wise. John has an MBA from Harvard and is the Co Founder and COO of LovePop, a company that scored a deal with Mr. Wonderful on the TV show Shark Tank and is disrupting the greeting card industry.John talks with Derek about launching their Kickstarter campaign, having transparency and trust with your partners and team, how his network helped them to launch, and his experience before, during, and after Shark Tank.

Derek Champagne interviews former NFL play and entrepreneur, Marques Ogden. Marques, the best-selling author of "Sleepless Nights: The NFL: a Business and Family", talks with Derek about his childhood years, playing in the NFL, his entrepreneurial journey, and leadership lessons along the way.Growing up in a single-parent home with a father that inspired and demonstrated perseverance and fairness, Marques Ogden learned how to define his values and set goals. Marques attended Howard University from 1998-2002, where he played Division I football. He followed his dream and his brother Jonathan's footsteps and was drafted into the NFL in 2003. At the age of 27, he founded a construction company called Kayden Premier Enterprises, a business that grew rapidly in its first few years, but he lost the business after a bad business endeavor. At his lowest point, the NFL and lessons he learned from his father and coaches, helped him restructure his life.Learn more at https://www.marquesogden.com

In this episode Derek Champagne interviews Brian Buffini, author of the New York Times best-selling book, The Emigrant Edge: How To Make It Big In America.Brian Buffini emigrated from Ireland at the age of nineteen, with only ninety-two dollars in hispocket. Today, as the founder of Buffini & Company, the largest business training company in North America, he is one of the nation's top business experts. In his engaging  book, THE EMIGRANT EDGE: How To Make It Big In America (Howard Books, August 2017), he shares the secret of his success: a mix of seven qualities that make up what he calls the Emigrant Edge.“Successful immigrants think and work differently than the average American,” Buffini writes. “When they leave everything behind, they keep their dream of success uppermost in their mind.” Through his own experiences as well as those of others, Buffini describes how the sacrifices made to come to America, the lack of a safety net, and the advantages of a fresh start, set the stage for success.The good news for everyone, Buffini says, is that the seven traits immigrants share are wholly transferable, no matter where a person is born, or what his or her circumstances are.“Imitating these traits will equip anyone to thrive and succeed,” he contends.Learn more: https://www.brianbuffini.com/the-emigrant-edge.aspx