Podcasts about Don Williams

Most business owners assume that spending more money on advertising will automatically generate more leads and revenue.According to Vi Wickam, that's one of the biggest marketing myths entrepreneurs still believe.In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, Don Williams sits down with Vi Wickam, partner at Wizard of Ads Online, to discuss the realities of Google Ads, digital marketing, brand building, AI, lead generation, marketing transparency, and business growth.Vi shares why Google's goals are often different from a business owner's goals, how agencies can unintentionally create misaligned incentives, why tracking data is never as accurate as most people think, and why trust remains one of the most valuable assets a company can build.Whether you're a founder, entrepreneur, CEO, marketing leader, consultant, coach, or business owner, this conversation offers practical insights that can help you make better marketing decisions and avoid costly mistakes.WHAT YOU'LL LEARNWhy more ad spend doesn't always mean more revenueThe difference between brand keywords and non-brand keywordsCommon Google Ads mistakes that hurt ROIWhy many marketing reports can be misleadingHow trust impacts customer acquisitionThe truth about marketing attribution and trackingWhere AI helps marketers and where it falls shortHow entrepreneurs can break through growth plateausMEMORABLE QUOTES"80 to 90% of your posts should build community.""Your brand keywords can give you 25 to 100X ROI.""If they say pay us and we pay Google, run away."ABOUT THE GUESTVi Wickam is a partner at Wizard of Ads Online, helping businesses align timeless persuasion principles with modern digital marketing strategies. His work focuses on Google Ads, branding, lead generation, business growth, and marketing transparency.

In this episode we discuss our Too 5 Don Williams songs with Adam Nelson and Wilkie  https://skdistillery.com/ https://www.eventbrite.com/ https://sandmountainamphitheater.com/ 

Paul is joined by Nicole Auerbach from NBC Sports & SiriusXM. He also catches up with Don Williams, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes. Have you ever wanted to ride a real MotoGP track? Well, here's your chance! Leod Escapes does all sorts of amazing European tours, including the incredible Munich to Mugello tour at the end of June, or you can try the Core of Catalunya or the Portimão Andalusia trips, both in October. These are incredible touring experiences with the very best that Europe has to offer. Fabulous accommodation, incredible food, and motorcycles! So for the trip of a lifetime, visit LeodEscapes.com, now. *  *  *  *  * In our first segment, Don Williams and Nic de Sena chat about the latest Yamaha MT-07. The amazing motor in the Yamaha is mostly unchanged, however just about everything else with this bike has changed. Don and Nic have extensive experience riding this beast and you'll hear both their likes and a couple of dislikes too.   *  *  *  *  * Our guest for this episode is Nikolas Lazos, a 15-year old young man from Melbourne, Australia who starting racing in the Supersport 300 category in Australian Superbike last year. Nikolas had an awful crash at the tail end of last year that put him out of contention for the Championship. Teejay chats with Nikolas about his journey so far, and the physical and mental challenges he's facing coming back from injury. *  *  *  *  * Here's quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It's filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you've probably not seen elsewhere. It's absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well. Don't forget to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com  

What happens when someone Googles your name—and finds… nothing?In this eye-opening episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Marina Byezhanova, co-founder of Brand of a Leader and a speaker with Deloitte Academy, to break down one of the most overlooked growth drivers in modern business: personal branding. If you're a founder, executive, or B2B leader who believes your results should speak for themselves, this conversation will challenge that assumption.Marina reveals why invisibility in search (Google and AI tools like LLMs) is silently costing entrepreneurs clients, partnerships, talent, and authority—and why even highly successful leaders are often under-leveraging their personal brand compared to more visible (but less experienced) competitors.Throughout the episode, you'll discover:- The hidden financial cost of not showing up online- Why thought leadership now drives visibility in both search engines and AI recommendations- The real reason younger professionals are winning stages, deals, and attention- How authenticity beats perfection, especially in the era of AI-generated content- Why being “humble and quiet” may actually stall your growth- Marina's powerful comeback story—rebuilding after losing a 7-figure recruitment business during COVIDYou'll also hear practical insights on LinkedIn strategy, podcast guesting, ghostwriting, handling criticism, and building a brand that is both authentic and scalable.Whether you're a business owner, consultant, marketer, or executive, this episode is a wake-up call:

National Grape day. Entertainment 1972. Masking tape invented, Disney releases "3 little pigs". Todays birthdays - Vincent Price, Christopher Lee, Lee Meriweather, Louis Gossett jr, Don Williams, Neil Finn, Peri Gilpin, Todd Bridges. Robert Ripley diedIntro - God did good - Dianna Corcoran      https://www.diannacorcoran.com/The green grape song - Hmm thats strangeOh Girl - The Chi-LightsOn our last date - Conway TwittyBirthdays - In da club - 50 Cent        https://www.50cent.com/Thriller - Michael JacksonJingle hell - Christopher LeeIt must be love - Don WilliamsI got you - Split EnzExit - Heart felt - Jennie Angel       https://jennieangelmusic.wixsite.com/mysiteHistory & Factoids about today Playlist on SpotifyHistory & Factoids about today webpagecooolmedia.comcountryundergroundradio.comNational Days - May Puzzle BookGrace & Grit Christian Country Radio

What actually separates brands that grow from brands that slowly disappear, even after spending heavily on digital marketing?In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, Don Williams sits down with Brooke Shepard, founder of Mason Interactive, for a candid conversation about the reality behind modern business growth, digital advertising, customer acquisition, and performance marketing.Brooke has spent nearly two decades helping brands scale through search, social media advertising, SEO, programmatic campaigns, ecommerce strategy, lead generation, and growth marketing. From startup founders to global consumer brands, he has seen what works when companies are trying to grow under pressure, shrinking budgets, investor expectations, and changing digital platforms.The conversation moves beyond surface-level marketing talk and gets into the mindset behind scaling a company in today's economy. Don Williams and Brooke Shepard discuss why many businesses become obsessed with ROAS, efficiency metrics, and short-term wins while quietly damaging long-term growth potential. They also unpack the difference between cheap leads and profitable customers, the pressure private equity creates inside businesses, and why so many companies continue chasing marketing “growth hacks” that rarely last.Listeners will also hear conversations around AI in marketing, agency leadership, brand trust, company culture, customer loyalty, subscription business models, data-driven advertising, and the balance between automation and human experience.This episode featuring Brooke Shepard and Mason Interactive gives entrepreneurs, CEOs, founders, marketers, agencies, and ecommerce brands an inside look at how real business growth decisions are made behind the scenes.If you are interested in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, business strategy, advertising psychology, scaling brands, or customer acquisition, this is an episode worth adding to your playlist.

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes.  Have you ever thought “MotoGP… well that's an easy sport”? Yes you have? Well, here's a chance to prove to yourself if you could have been a contender! You can ride one or all of the classic MotoGP tracks, like Mugello, Portimao or Catalunya.   Leod Escapes does all sorts of amazing European tours, including the incredible Munich to Mugello tour at the end of June, or the Core of Catalunya and the  Portimao Andalusia trips, both in October. These are incredible touring experiences with the very best that Europe has to offer, as well as riding these amazing tracks on new BMW S1000RRs. So for the trip of a lifetime, book here at LeodEscapes.com, now! *  *  *  *  * In our first segment, Don Williams talks about a bike brand you've probably never heard of: the new Benda Napoleonbob 500. It's a really nice looking entry or intermediate level cruiser-style bike, and yes, it's from China. Don gives us the lowdown on its performance, quality, and of course, its price.     *  *  *  *  * Our guest for this episode is Gary Christopher. When I first started around 25 years ago, Gary was the Senior PR manager for American Honda motorcycles. Of course with a lifelong career at Honda he's seen some incredible things, and ridden a few bikes that you've probably never even heard of. His stories are dripping with nostalgia, and even if his time was before your interest in motorcycling got started, his knowledge and experiences are an absolute treat to hear. *  *  *  *  * Here's quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It's filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you've probably not seen elsewhere. It's absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well. Don't forget to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com  

Chad just got back from Tennessee, and he's not over it yet. Good luck getting him over it. Nashville first, from Barrett Hobbs, the Scoreboard, the Nashville Palace, dinner at the Detroit Cowboy with Chef Marino throwing down on steaks and lobster, then straight to Kid Rock's Honky Tonk with a VIP section right above the band. That's how you do Music City. Then Lynchburg. The Jack Daniel's distillery. Barrel selection with 24 people, the biggest group selection Clint Bailey and Josh Phillips had ever done. Drilling straight into a nine-year-old barrel in a rickhouse, lunch at Miss Mary Bobo's, shopping at the hardware store, and a sunset dinner on the hill with cigars and rocking chairs made from actual barrel wood. Hank Jr., Waylon, Randy Travis, and Don Williams playing softly in the background straight from his friend's guitars. Chad also gets into the single-barrel program and why you should seriously look into getting one for your family, your company, and your legacy. The details on that are worth the listen alone. This one's a trip. Pour something good and come along for it. This episode is brought to you by Bedside, LEER, Scoreboard Nashville, Napa Valley Olive Oil, Corning Ford, DEMERBOX, Resistol hats, The Provider Culinary, and GATR coolers

Jake & Ben Full Show from April 29, 2026 Hour 1 Jake & Ben love that we get to talk playoffs again in Salt Lake City. Game 5 tonight.  Top 3 Stories of the Day: AJ Dybantsa reveals his Signature Nike Logo, NBA Playoff talk, NCAA Tournament expanding.  LIV Golf is reportedly losing its funding.  Hour 2 ESPN NBA Insider Shams Charania was defending Adam Silver's Anti-Tanking proposal, and he seemed to take a shot at the Jazz.  What You Got Wednesday: Best Short Athletes & Best Las Vegas Things Do you enjoy The Sin City?  Hour 3 Is Adam Silver's Anti Tanking Proposal going to end up fixing the issue? Don Williams from the Lubbock Avalance-Journal joins to talk Texas Tech and how the team will be impacted if Brendan Sorsby is suspended. Will they still be Big 12 Favorites? Audio Vault: It's the 20 Year Anniversary of this Legendary Postgame Speech Hour 4 Radio Voice of the Utah Mammoth Mike Folta joined the show to set the scene for Game 5 tonigth between the Mammoth & Golden Knights.  ESPN College Basketball Analyst Seth Greenberg is defending the NCAA Tournament Expansion.  Would you die for Taco Bell? 

Hour 3 of Jake & Ben on April 29, 2026 Is Adam Silver's Anti Tanking Proposal going to end up fixing the issue? Don Williams from the Lubbock Avalance-Journal joins to talk Texas Tech and how the team will be impacted if Brendan Sorsby is suspended. Will they still be Big 12 Favorites? Audio Vault: It's the 20 Year Anniversary of this Legendary Postgame Speech

Don Williams from the Lubbock Avalance-Journal joins to talk Texas Tech and how the team will be impacted if Brendan Sorsby is suspended. Will they still be Big 12 Favorites?

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride a REAL MotoGP track?  One of the many Leod Escapes is the incredible Munich to Mugello tour which starts at the end of June. You get to ride the Dolomites, Europe's most famous motorcycle playground, and then spend three days on Italy's most famous track. And get this: Leod Escapes is offering an incredible discount: for two free nights on a “Track & Tour” simply add it when booking, and then at check out use the code ULTIMATETRACK. Places are limited, so visit LeodEscapes.com now to book your trip of a lifetime. *  *  *  *  * In our first segment, Nic de Sena chats with Don Williams on his impressions of the new Triumph Trident 660. Nic traveled to Spain to ride Triumph's middleweight roadster that comes with mechanical revisions that go beyond skin deep. *  *  *  *  * Later this episode we have an update from Freddie Spencer on his new venture. But before that, Teejay Adams chats with Vikki Van Someren, one of the founders and partners in the famous Bike Shed destination venue. It's a place of Common Ground, where people from all walks of life come together to share their passion for two-wheels, whether they ride a motorcycle or not. Vikki is a dynamic and energetic host who exudes warmth and welcome. *  *  *  *  * And finally this episode, before you check out, make sure you hear the update from three-times world Champion Freddie Spencer. Freddie is starting an interesting new venture with friend and business partner Camille Conrad, and they tell us all about it. *  *  *  *  * Here's quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It's filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you've probably not seen elsewhere. It's absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well. Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com  

Don Williams at The Masters 04 - 10 by Phil Kornblut, Chris Burgin, and Josh Cohen

Don Williams at The Masters 04 - 09 by Phil Kornblut, Chris Burgin, and Josh Cohen

Don Williams at The Masters 04 - 08 by Phil Kornblut, Chris Burgin, and Josh Cohen

Most people who lose everything in a real estate crash never come back. Chris Prefontaine did. And the way he did it will completely change how you think about building wealth through property.In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Chris Prefontaine, founder of Smart Real Estate Coach and one of the most respected names in creative real estate investing across the United States. Chris has spent over 34 years in the real estate business. He built homes, ran a Realty Executives franchise, sold his brokerage to Coldwell Banker in 2000, and was riding high until 2008 hit him like a freight train.The crash wiped him out completely. We are talking about going from a waterfront home overlooking the harbor in Newport, Rhode Island to a 976 square foot apartment. No money. Destroyed credit. Starting over at zero. Most people would have walked away from real estate forever. Chris did not. He rebuilt using a completely different set of rules: no bank loans, no personal guarantees, and no more getting paid once on a deal like he was running on a treadmill.That thinking became the Three Payday System, a federally trademarked model that structures every deal to generate three separate income events: money at the transaction, monthly income like a rental property, and a final cash-out payday when the deal closes. One deal. Three paydays. No bank required.Chris also shares the story of a condominium conversion project in Providence, Rhode Island that nearly finished him for good. Units selling at 170,000 dollars became impossible to move at 52,000 dollars overnight. He carried that weight for a decade and came out of it with one rule he teaches before anything else: never sign a personal guarantee on a deal. Not ever.He also gives three concrete steps for anyone starting in real estate today: pick one niche you can stand behind completely, find a mentor who has survived real market cycles, and commit to that path for three to seven years without chasing the next shiny opportunity. Straightforward advice that applies to any industry, not just real estate.This is not a motivational episode built on vague inspiration. It is an honest conversation between two experienced entrepreneurs about what actually works when the market turns against you.Ready to explore creative real estate investing? Chris offers two completely free resources with no credit card required. Grab two bestselling books at threepaydaysbooks.com/proven or watch his free 25-minute Masters Class at smartrealestatecoach.com/mastersclass.

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes. *  *  *  *  * Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride a REAL MotoGP track? …or maybe you HAVE ridden one and want more? Well, one of the many Leod Escapes is the incredible Munich to Mugello tour which starts at the end of June. You get to ride the Dolomites, Europe's most famous motorcycle playground, and then spend three days on Italy's most famous track. And get this: Leod Escapes is offering an incredible discount if you book before April 17th: for two free nights on a “Track & Tour” use the code ULTIMATETRACK.  Or for one free night on a Trippinar use the code ULTIMATETRIP. Simply add the extras when booking, and then at check out use the code. Places are limited on this bucket list trip, so visit LeodEscapes.com now to book your ride of a lifetime. *  *  *  *  * In our first segment, Don Williams discusses the 2026 Yamaha R7. Four years after its debut, the R7 gets its first major upgrade. Improvements to the R7 range from electronic to mechanical, and ergonomic to cosmetic. There's a lot to know about this popular Championship-winning supersport bike, and Don lets us in on a few of its secrets. *  *  *  *  * Earlier this year we brought you two guests from the new-on-the-scene Joe Rascal brand. Archie ‘Maddog' McDonald is one of the riders in the new Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup race series with MotoGP this year, and as it turned out is the Winner of the first race. James Tonna is the Chief Rascal, and with his business partner Barry Fitzpatrick they are the brains and money behind the entire Joe Rascal initiative. We had a chance to catch up with Archie and James at the recent COTA MotoGP round. *  *  *  *  * Most of you will have heard of Keith Code and the California Superbike School. Keith's legendary teaching has helped thousands of motorcycle riders improve their techniques both on- and off-track. Keith's son Dylan has now taken the reins at the Superbike school known for his expertise in cornering physics, technical training, and his role in managing the school's global operations. He specializes in training riders from novice street riders to seasoned racers. He is incredibly articulate and this episode Teejay Adams chats with him about not just what happens at the Superbike School but also his journey getting there.  *  *  *  *  * Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com

Birdies & Bogeys with George Bryan, Larry Mattox and Don Williams 4-3 by Phil Kornblut, Chris Burgin, and Josh Cohen

Heather Dinich of ESPN and Don Williams of Lubbock Avalanche-Journal join Paul to kick off hour 1 of Friday's program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

0:15:00-Don Williams, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal0:40:00-Jed Drenning, West Virginia Sideline Analyst1:00:00- topical discussions1:25:00-Scott Cross, Georgia Tech Basketball Coach1:45:00-Craig Smoak's “Off the Radar”2:00:00-Earth -- flat, or not? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

College football drama is heating up—and this one has real implications for the future of the Big 12. Texas Tech booster Cody Campbell is making headlines after firing back at conference leadership, igniting a public clash that has everyone talking. From bold statements about Lubbock's influence to the ongoing debate over Friday night games, this situation quickly escalated into one of the most fascinating off-field storylines in college sports. Don Williams joins the show to break down what really happened, why this matters for Texas Tech, and how it could impact the Big 12 moving forward. Is this just noise—or the start of something much bigger when it comes to power, scheduling, and influence in college athletics? If you care about conference politics, realignment dynamics, and the future of college football, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. #Big12 #TexasTech #CollegeFootball #CFB #ConferenceRealignment 00:00 – Reaction to Cody Campbell controversy 01:00 – Why the situation escalated quickly 02:00 – Campbell's growing influence in college sports 04:00 – Big 12 response and behind-the-scenes tension 06:00 – Friday night games and scheduling impact 08:00 – Is Texas Tech overplaying its hand 10:00 – What this means for the Big 12 future 12:30 – Could this affect realignment conversations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Turf Zone Podcast. This episode features the article “Art and Resilience: The Pollinator Garden at the UT Arboretum” by Mike Ross, Associate Professor of Plant Sciences and Jakob Johnson, UT Plant Sciences, Master of Landscape Architecture Student. As our relationship with Nature and access to natural spaces have become increasingly constrained by urban and suburban growth, we have seen a growing desire by homeowners, parks and municipalities for naturalistic landscapes that showcase plants as communities. This naturalistic planting design often seeks to abstract naturally occurring ecological habitats and put them in a context that, allows people to interact with the plants and their associates in more intentional ways. Pocket prairies, urban meadows, pollinator gardens, even rain gardens can serve these naturalistic functions that whether in bloom or in winter dormancy, can inspire the heart and captivate the mind. One such place is the Michelle Bradley Campanis Pollinator Garden at the UT Arboretum in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The pollinator garden has developed into something really special during the last five years. In many ways this special garden resource serves as a prime example of resilience in design and the blending of that resilience with the art of landscape and planting design. My involvement with this project dates back to June 2020. At the time I had been at the University of Tennessee for almost a year and with covid, all educational programs, field days, master gardener and outreach events had moved online. I had been asked by the UT Arboretum team to give a talk on ecological landscape design. During the presentation I mentioned that I thought there should be a wildflower center in every state. This was something I brought up during my job interview back in 2019. I still feel strongly about that need. At the talk in 2020, the idea of a wildflower center for Tennessee resonated with Michelle Campanis, who is the Education Coordinator at the UT Arboretum who was at the zoom meeting. She reached out and said they had an area at the Arboretum that would be a great place for a meadow…would I be interested in helping to create it? And so began a multi-year collaboration with the UT Forest Resources AgResearch and Education Center (REC), Tennessee Naturescapes, undergraduate PLSC students from the Sustainable Landscape Design concentration in the Herbert College of Agriculture, and graduate students from the School of Landscape Architecture in the College of Architecture and Design. Brainstorming and Breaking Ground: Planning the First Steps Our initial discussions centered around a stretch of ground that was next to the recently constructed auditorium and its extensive rain garden. The ground that was identified had become a field of invasive plants, weeds, and assorted woody shrubs and small trees. The team's idea was to create a space that provided visual appeal from the auditorium and that also would contribute to future educational programs that, like the rain garden, could be focused on sustainable and resilient landscapes. In keeping with that charge, it was determined that in addition to shedding the invasive field we would use fire, herbicide, and solarization as ways to suppress the significant invasive species pressure on the site. Michelle led volunteers through weeding and prepping the site, Kevin Hoyt, the director of the UT Forest Resources AgResearch and Education Center and the Arboretum staff oversaw bush hogging, prescribed burns, and pesticide application. Don Williams and Tennessee Naturescapes provided the solarization material and I began working with students and research assistants to develop initial plant lists. The key to successful projects like this one that relies on using abstracted ecosystems is the ability to convey the concept across all collaborative partners. The effective control of invasive and weedy species in the selected site and the shared vision for the pollinator garden were essential for keeping the project moving forward across the last four years. Art and Resilience in Landscape Design An intentional landscape plan is at its most evocative when it marries art and science to varying degrees to bring about experientially rich moments for people to interact with their designed surroundings. It can take the form of extravagant fountains and terracing like the Italian renaissance garden at Villa d'Este or the over-the-top grandeur of French baroque landscape designs of master paysagiste, Andre Le Notre, or perhaps our more familiar works from Frederick Law Olmsted and Jens Jensen. However, as evocative as these landscapes are, they were not conceived within a conceptual framework that accounted for an understanding of ecology as a discreet science nor to anticipate disturbance regimes that included wildfire, site construction, drought or flooding. This is precisely where the pollinator garden fits into our contemporary sphere of landscape design practice. The art of planting design, the artful shape, color, and texture of the plants utilized balanced with the realities of ever-changing precipitation, management regimes, unpredictable weather and scheduling approvals for prescribed burn permits, and fluctuating volunteer schedules and knowledge bases. All impact the success and perception of the project. At the end of the day, the pollinator garden must be both beautiful and functional. It must serve the educational and ecological goals of the REC, as well as benefitting the casual visitor to the Arboretum. It needs to support the well-attended annual Butterfly Festival and other University field days that are part of the education and outreach component of the land grant mission that the REC serves. It must above all support pollinators and their diverse life histories. The resilience and the art must be linked for the project to succeed. The Significance of People as Part of an Informed Design Process A key component in this project has always been the students and volunteers who have dedicated so much time and invested so much of themselves to this undertaking. Whether planting, weeding, constructing, maintaining accessible circulation, or controlling invasive plants; through their efforts we have been able to make this project happen. With that said, I think it is particularly meaningful when the work allows student interactions with the garden to reinforce and teach meaningful skills that can shape their own understanding of the profession of landscape design and management. Students working as part of the Living Systems Design Group and the Ross lab developed plans, researched plant material, learned how to design on-site, set up and space plants, use technology, review spreadsheets, and managed the prairie and meadow ecosystem establishment. In some cases, I would bring my graduate and undergraduate classes out to help with planting. More than once, I had the distinct honor of teaching a beginner student how to plant a plant. While this may seem small or trivial, it illustrates how even students who are drawn to landscape and horticulture may have had very limited past opportunity to plant, grow, and interact with vegetation beyond the occasional house plant. The work we have undertaken at the UT Arboretum has shaped the professional practice and career aspirations of many students. This outcome is further evidence of the immense value that hands-on experiential learning has for future designers, landscape architects, professional gardeners, horticulturists, and landscape managers. Ongoing Lessons Learned in Managing a Designed Ecological System As the pollinator garden has continued to establish and grow, there have been key management and maintenance decisions that we have made that will shape its long-term success. First and foremost, controlling invasive and weedy plant encroachment is key to maintaining the structure and visual impact of the garden. Woody plants, even native ones, can markedly change the form and structure if allowed to establish in the meadow. While intentional use of woody plants for their structural and aesthetic contributions must be maintained, careful removal of woody seedlings plus annual burning has helped us keep the invasive and weedy plants in check. Fire, manual removal, ethical and judicious use of herbicides each contribute key roles in controlling plant compositions throughout the garden. Some species, such as goldenrods (Solidago sp., dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), and asters (Symphyotrichum and Eurybria sp.) were always planned to be intentional parts of the project, yet these plant species were not intentionally planted or purchased; we knew from past experience that these species would naturally find their own way into our meadow plots and could be expected to colonize on their own. By that same logic, our expectation has also meant that some individuals of these species can show up anywhere and can regenerate in great profusion if left unmanaged. For these plant species, proper thinning, selective removal, and well timed cutting all aid in keeping these important pollinator plants behaving as good neighbors to the rest of the meadow community. Additionally, when plants are weeded and pulled up, native seed from flowering annual species that we intend to keep well represented in the design, are purposefully re-applied into areas of soil disturbance. In this way, there is propagule competition with the weedy species, and this interaction helps to offset the natural suppressive effect of longer-lived perennial plants on early colonizing annuals. Finally, because the garden exists as an interactive educational space, maintaining and managing circulation and pathways is an ongoing task. Plants mature and spread, sometimes obscuring pathways or sprawling into areas that are intended for more contemplative experiences. Thinning and plant relocation are important tasks needed for keeping the structure and design vision in place. All of this effort is dependent on volunteers and students who are coordinated by Michelle Campanis. Through continued effort and dedication, the garden is establishing nicely and keeping the vision flexible and resilient while not losing sight of the initial concept. A Look Into the Future As the project moves forward through the establishment and management phase, plants will continue to be added or subtracted. This is necessary to restate important design concepts, improve the aesthetic appeal, and keep up with the educational opportunities and needs of the UT Arboretum and REC. Final Thoughts The first formal discussions of this project that I was involved in began in June 2020 and this coming spring of 2026 the project receives its official name, the Michelle Bradley Campanis Pollinator Garden. While its official establishment date is attributed to 2022, the reality is that projects like this take years of dedicated work, advocacy, and commitment by many people, professionals, students and volunteers. We would like to thank Michelle Campanis, Don Williams, Kevin Hoyt, Jakob Johnson, Hailey Wright, JD Zimmerman, and my students past, present, and future that have and will work on the pollinator garden to help care for it into the future. Student's Perspective – Jakob's Experience By Jacob Johnson During my time at The University of Tennessee I have had the opportunity to work with professors who saw the value of engaging students in projects with real world implications. In our digital age the value of hands-on learning experiences is exponentially important. With the reality of the direction of education experiences that can now be fully gained online, the value of face to face or hands to dirt learning is something that can never be fully replaced. There is immense importance in actually seeing how hard work can lead to the physical manifestation of an idea. As I was nearing the end of my undergraduate studies in Sustainability, I was still unsure of how I wanted to utilize the knowledge I had gained in the classroom. Through a series of experiences being on site and taking the classroom outside to the world I discovered my true passion. My first experience with the UT meadow began in April 2022, while I was pursuing my undergraduate degree in sustainability with a minor in plant sciences. During this first visit to the arboretum I didn't know much about real world implementation of planting design…I knew how to dig a hole to its proper depth and to break up root bound plants, I knew how to identify certain plants that I was looking at, I knew the value in what these ecosystems provide, and I knew that I was excited to be a part of something bigger than myself. During this initial phase of the project I had the opportunity and guidance of Mike to mark out the boundaries for the planting zones, strategically stage the plants so there was structure, areas of reveal and lines of sight. Tasks that may seem minor to the average gardener, but these tasks would help jumpstart my pursuit of a career in Landscape Architecture. The next visit to the UT Arboretum was as a class, we began the laborious process of digging hundreds of holes for the plugs and containerized plants with the hope that the site would become a place where people and nature can meet or reconnect. Getting the opportunity to work under someone that is so knowledgeable in a field of study which aims to build and support communities of people and plants was an honorable task. It taught me that it was much more than just placing plants in the landscape, it was conversations about the plant communities and the species they support, the structural variation creating moments of wonder and others of reveal, it was about the intentionality of having bursts of color in moments along the path, and conversations about how amazing this place will be. It was through these types of conversations I was ignited with an inspiration that I too could gain these skills and knowledge to create places that provide beauty to our world while creating opportunities for essential ecological services to be provided. Upon graduating with my degree in Sustainability I began a summer job in landscape construction and that fall would begin my pursuit of my master's in landscape architecture. After about 3 years from the time I first helped plant at the arboretum I was invited back, this time to utilize the skills and knowledge I had been gaining through graduate school. My task this time was to help establish formalities in the design that assist in creating a sense of arrival into the meadow, as well as create opportunities for gathering. Through the collaboration and support of Michelle Campanis and Kevin Hoyt and oversight of Mike Ross I was entrusted with my first stand-alone landscape construction project. With the use of recycled on-site stone, I constructed planter beds to support Tiger Eye Sumac specimens (Rhus typhina ‘Bailtiger') to create a gathering space in the middle of the meadow. The entrance for the meadow was designed by Mike Ross and Margaret Mando (a fellow UTK School of Landscape Architecture student) and I was given the opportunity to do detailed construction design, material selection and sourcing as well as the actual building of the entrance. It has allowed me to create, to problem solve and to feel the fulfillment of turning something from just an idea on paper into a physical manifestation in the landscape. From my first experience of walking into a barren field of dirt to walking through the meadow and seeing a diverse mix of Carolina lupine, rattlesnake master, columbine, bee balm, big blue stem, husker red penstemon, false blue indigo, milkweed, mountain mint, and many more plants, I have sharpened my skills and sensibility as a designer, I have built relationships with people and the land, I have deepened my appreciation for our natural world and more importantly found a cause that I want to dedicate my life to…. creating places where people can feel a sense of wonder, beauty, peace and learn with nature. Through the opportunity and foresight of people like Michelle Campanis, Kevin Hoyt, Mike Ross and many more I have realized the true power and impact that a single experience of hands-on learning can provide to someone that is still learning and developing their place in the world. For these experiences I am eternally grateful. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X, Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. Visit www.theturfzone.com for more. The post Art and Resilience: The Pollinator Garden at the UT Arboretum appeared first on The Turf Zone.

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes. *  *  *  *  * Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride a REAL MotoGP track? …or maybe you HAVE ridden one and want more? Well one of the most popular Leod Escapes is the ‘Core of Catalunya' trip, this October. Leod Escapes gets help from local enthusiasts to show you the roads, the cantinas, the views, the food …and most importantly, the curves, that make this a perfect trip. Stay in the towns where locals riders go to escape the busy streets of Barcelona; ride the same mountain and coastal roads that local racers have ridden for generations. This is the ideal trip for couples too… so your better half will fall in love with Barcelona while you're enjoying a new BMW S1000RR for three full days on the incredible Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya track. And get this: Leod Escapes is offering an incredible discount if you book before April 17th: for two free nights on a “Track & Tour” use the code ULTIMATETRACK.  Or for one free night on a Trippinar use the code ULIMATETRIP. Simply add the extras when booking, and then at check out use the code and the money will be pulled off the total. Visit LeodEscapes.com now to book the ‘Core of Catalunya' ride of a lifetime. *  *  *  *  * In our first segment, Don Williams and Nic de Sena discuss the new Indian Chief Vintage. This Indian is a heritage-driven cruiser that blends mid-20th-century American design language with the thoroughly modern Chief platform. It's built around the air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-twin that's wrapped in classic valanced fenders and deeply nostalgic detailing. *  *  *  *  * Have you heard the latest from Insta360 about the new Ace Pro 2 Supercross bundle? The partnership between Insta360 and the Supercross World Championship includes world champion Jett Lawrence and the bundle features the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 action camera. The amazing Ace Pro 2 has 8K, AI-powered video, a large sensor and Leica lens that gives you 4K, 60fps video. There's a PureVideo Mode for low light conditions; it's waterproof, has a 180-minute fast charging battery, and it supports 1TB microSD cards. The Supercross Edition bundle includes a Helmet Chin Mount, two Flexible Adhesive Mounts, a Lens Guard, and a 128GB microSD card so that you can get going immediately. Head over to Insta360.com and use the promo code ULTIMATE. *  *  *  *  * BDR or Backcountry Discovery Routes organization, is a non-profit that creates off-highway routes for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel. In the second segment this episode, Teejay chats with Inna Thorn, the Executive Director, and Bryce Stevens, the Co-Founder and Routes Development Director. Bryce is heavily involved in scouting, designing, and mapping new routes for BDR. If you're not familiar with BDR, Inna and Bryce give us some background and what's new in the world of adventure motorcycling in the US. *  *  *  *  * Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com

Welcome to The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where host Don Williams goes beyond surface-level success stories to explore what really happens after the wins, exits, and milestones.In this episode, Don sits down with Kevin Thompson—founder of Impact and Legacy Collective and host of the Kevin Thompson Million Dollar Relationships podcast—for a conversation that cuts deeper than most entrepreneur networking podcasts dare to go. This isn't about tactics, hacks, or polished highlight reels. It's about the question underneath the question.Kevin has spent years building high-trust relationships in the entrepreneurial world, resulting in nearly 600 strategic partnerships over more than a decade. From the outside, his success looks effortless. Inside the conversation, Kevin reveals the uncomfortable truths behind it—choices made without being asked, trust built at real cost, and a way of giving that was never meant to be a strategy.Together, Don and Kevin explore why so many impact-driven entrepreneurs stop just short of their most important chapter, why trust in business is misunderstood, and what truly separates founders who feel empty after success from those who build something lasting. The discussion challenges listeners to consider what people say about them when they're not in the room—and whether they're building a real legacy or just staying busy.This is a rare, authentic conversation about entrepreneur mindset, relationships, and legacy—one that speaks to founders, CEOs, and builders who care about impact as much as profit. It's an episode worth listening to twice: once to hear it, and once because something Kevin says won't let go.If you're looking for a podcast about building meaningful relationships that lead to million-dollar deals—without reducing relationships to a growth hack—this is it.

What actually separates strong companies from the rest? Strategy alone rarely explains it.In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with leadership coach David Deane-Spread, founder of MediTude, who joins the conversation from Perth, Western Australia. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience coaching CEOs, senior executives, and board leaders, David shares practical leadership insights shaped by both business and military environments.The conversation moves beyond surface-level leadership advice and explores how real teams operate under pressure. David explains why building a company that people genuinely want to work for can quietly become the strongest competitive advantage a business can have. He also shares why leaders who listen, ask questions, and encourage challenge often build stronger teams than those who rely only on authority.Throughout the discussion, Don and David explore the subtle dynamics between leadership and followership, the importance of psychological safety inside teams, and why many leaders struggle with the conversations that matter most.Listeners will also hear stories from David's background in military, intelligence, and law enforcement leadership environments, where preparation, reflection, and accountability play a major role in team performance. These experiences shape how he now advises entrepreneurs, founders, and executives on building healthier workplace culture and stronger organizations.Rather than presenting leadership as a rigid framework, this episode invites listeners to rethink how leadership actually works inside modern businesses.Topics Discussed- Leadership and executive coaching- Workplace culture and team performance- Why culture often drives business success- Leadership versus followership in organizations- Psychological safety inside teams- Hiring people with diverse perspectives- The role of listening and curiosity in leadership- Necessary conversations in management- Lessons from military leadership applied to business- Building high-performing teams

This episode is brought to you by Leod Escapes. The Triumph Trident 800 is a charismatic highly sporting machine, and Don Williams traveled all the way to the Island of Cyprus to test this latest offering from Triumph.   *  *  *  *  * Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride a REAL MotoGP track? …or maybe you have ridden one and are salivating for more? Well, one of the many Leod Escapes is the incredible Munich to Mugello tour which starts at the end of June. As the name implies, you get to ride Europe's most famous motorcycle playground, the Dolomites, and then spend three days on Italy's most famous circuit. Cat McLeod gives us a few details on what to expect on this tour, and yes, you will definitely want to go!  Special deal for our listeners, use code ULTIMATETRACK gets you two free nights on a "Track & Tour" code; ULTIMATETRIP gets you one free night on a Trippinar! (codes apply up to April 17 2026) Places are limited on this bucket list trip, so visit LeodEscapes.com now to book your ride of a lifetime. *  *  *  *  * Have you heard the latest from Insta360 about the new Ace Pro 2 Supercross bundle? The partnership between Insta360 and the Supercross World Championship includes world champion Jett Lawrence and the bundle features the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 action camera. The amazing Ace Pro 2 has 8K, AI-powered video, a large sensor and Leica lens that gives you 4K, 60fps video. There's a PureVideo Mode for low light conditions; it's waterproof, has a 180-minute fast charging battery, and it supports 1TB microSD cards. The Supercross Edition bundle includes a Helmet Chin Mount, two Flexible Adhesive Mounts, a Lens Guard, and a 128GB microSD card so that you can get going immediately. Head over to Insta360.com and use promo code ULTIMATE. *  *  *  *  * In the second segment this episode, Teejay chats with Kira Knebel. Kira is one of the most modest Championship Winners you'll ever hear from. But don't be fooled by this super-sweet lady—she turns into a tiger on the track. Part of the Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race crew, in 2025 Kira entered her second year of the program and felt somewhat confident that she could make her mark. And boy, did she ever! The racing was close; she had a spectacular spill at Road America; and yet she wasn't fazed. It went down to the wire and Kira ended up taking the Championship win at the last round at The Ridge, in Washington state. It was a remarkable testament to her sheer toughness and never-give-up attitude. Here at Motos & Friends we're proud to be part of her racing journey.   Broitomoto Kira Knebel Instagram  *  *  *  *  * Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com  

What if the wealth you imagine for your future could start taking shape long before you sell your company?In this conversation, host Don Williams sits down with Noah Rosenfarb, a third‑generation CPA, entrepreneur, and founder of WealthThrive, to explore the practical and often overlooked decisions that help founders keep more of what they earn. Noah joins from Paris while spending a year abroad with his family, a real‑life example of designing a business that supports freedom rather than controls it. Listeners will hear how Noah went from building a family office for divorced women to creating a specialized tax strategy firm for seven and eight figure entrepreneurs. He explains why most business owners unknowingly operate without a real tax plan, and how simple yearly planning can prevent the shock of surprise tax bills. He breaks down his well known 20 Percent Rule, teaching founders how to build income streams before selling so they enter their exit with confidence, not uncertainty. Noah also shares stories that reveal the mindset behind wealth, including the moment a large boat taught him how to enjoy the rewards of disciplined saving without guilt. He discusses the role teams play in creating freedom, how he traveled for a year while his company ran smoothly, and why many entrepreneurs remain stuck because they never let their people lead. The episode ends with a thoughtful look at legacy, storytelling, and what it really means to live rich beyond money. What You Will LearnHow most founders unintentionally overpay on taxes: Noah explains why accountants often say there is nothing you can do, and what real tax strategy looks like for high earners. The 20 Percent Rule for life after an exit: A simple exercise that helps you build financial independence before leaving your business. Why founders must build teams that allow them to step away: Noah's year of travel reveals the power of the right visionary integrator balance and the danger of staying stuck in the E‑Myth cycle. The emotional side of wealth: From boat expenses to Miami Heat playoff tickets, Noah shares how he learned to enjoy wealth after a lifetime of disciplined saving. What legacy truly looks like: Why Noah documents his life for his children and how stories shape the next generation's relationship with money.Perfect For Listeners Who Are:✔️ Founders planning an exit✔️ High earning entrepreneurs who want to reduce taxes✔️ Leaders seeking more freedom and better team structure✔️ Professionals wanting to build a life that matches their values✔️ Anyone curious about money, mindset, and long term wealthListen If You Want To:Keep more of what you earnBuild financial independence earlierCreate a business that supports your lifeFind clarity around your relationship with moneyLearn simple, practical steps to build long lasting wealth

His ability to paint mental pictures has been compared to Raymond Carver, Flannery O'Connor, and even Norman Rockwell. His laid back, conversational singing style has been likened to Don Williams, Guy Clark, and John Denver. So, when the easy softness of this southern baritone delivers these lyrical short stories, it's no wonder that both his peers and journalists alike call Daryl Mosley a “songwriter's songwriter.”Daryl writes and sings about life as he knows it: small towns, rural churches, salt-of-the-earth people, family, and faith. He leans heavily on songs about the victories and challenges of everyday people because these are HIS people. For over three decades, the combination of these exquisitely crafted songs along with his understated delivery and gentle personality has been engaging music lovers in a way that few artists can. Mosley still resides in his hometown of Waverly, Tennessee - the small, Mayberry Esque hamlet just west of Nashville where he grew up. The experiences of life, work, faith, and love that resonate so strongly in this community are the very foundation of his songwriting. And when he sings those songs, the characters and scenes come alive as if they were sitting on the front porch with you. Music legends from Tom T. Hall and Ronnie Milsap to Bill Gaither and Rodney Crowell have praised both Mosley's singing prowess and his gifts as a songwriter. Mosley's songsmith abilities have led to him being honored four times as the industry's Songwriter of the Year, twenty #1 songs, and three Song of the Year awards. Other artists who have recorded his songs include - Lynn Anderson, Bobby Osborne, High Road, the Booth Brothers, and The Grascals. Songwriting legend Jerry Salley says Mosley is “easily one of the finest songwriters in our business.” Throughout the 1990s, Mosley toured as the lead vocalist with the much-celebrated Bluegrass group New Tradition. In 2001, he joined the legendary Osborne Brothers. In 2010, he formed the band The Farm Hands who quickly became one of the most awarded acts in Bluegrass. This marriage has taken him to the pinnacle of musical stages and venues ranging from the Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Bluebird Cafe to even West Point Military Academy. In 2020, Mosley stepped more directly into the spotlight with the release of his first solo project for Pinecastle Records -'The Secret of Life.' It was a collection of eleven songs written or co-written by Mosley that were both plain spoken and lyrically clever. The album reached #1 on the Roots Music Report as did the first single, “A Few Years Ago” and the spiritual “Do What The Good Book Says.” Critically acclaimed by both the media and industry peers, The Secret Of Life was praised by American Songwriter Magazine, SiriusXM, Bluegrass Today, Country Music People, Bluegrass Unlimited, MusicRow, Country Standard Time, No Depression, and more. The November 2021 release of Mosley's 'Small Town Dreamer' album featured a dozen original songs including three that reached the #1 spot on the charts; the nostalgic “Transistor Radio," the heart tugging “Mama's Bible” and the spiritual “He's With Me" that hit #1 on Cashbox Magazine's chart.In July of 2023, Daryl released his third solo album, 'A Life Well Lived.' The acclaimed album reached the top of the album charts as well as garnering three #1 songs: "Mayberry State of Mind" (along with the hit music video), as well as gospel chart toppers "The Bible in the Drawer" and "Big God". In 2024, Mosley released his current album, "Long Days & Short Stories."  The project is his fourth for Pinecastle Records and features the #1 songs "Me and Mr. Howard," "When the Good Old Days Were New," and "When I Can't Reach Up." Daryl Mosley remains a towering figure in roots music—crafting songs that feel both ancient and immediate, offering comfort and connection through his heartfelt stories and songs shaped by Southern tradition, Christian faith, and small‑town warmth.

What if honesty is the only sales strategy you ever needed? In this episode, Kevin sits down with Don Williams, founder of Don Williams Global and a sales and leadership coach with over 30 years of experience. Don works primarily with founder-led businesses under $100 million, helping them grow their top line fast. He started selling at 19, became the top rep out of 450 within months, and has since worked with more than half of the Fortune 500. His core belief has never changed: the foundation of all sales and leadership is trust, and the only way to build it is to be trustworthy. The relationship that transformed Don's life: a man he met in downtown Fort Worth at a meeting he knew was never going to close. Don was so impressed that before leaving he looked at the man and said, we are not doing business today, and I think that's the right thing. But I've only told a couple of people this in my life: you and I, someday, somehow, some way, we will work together and do great things. Two years later the man called. They spent nearly a decade doing significant work in the insurance industry, and at one point Don bought a house from his sight unseen simply because he trusted him completely. Their paths diverged, then reconnected again, and Don now expects them to be a near-household name in AI within the next 18 months. Twenty-five years, two business chapters, and a third just getting started.   [00:02:31] Noah Rosenfarb: The Introduction Behind This Episode Noah Rosenfarb introduced Kevin and Don, telling Don simply that Kevin has your vibe. Don says he and Kevin are like brothers from other mothers. Both agree it worked because Noah already had deep trust with each of them. [00:04:00] What Don Does: Helping Businesses Bring More Money in the Door Don spent 30 years with Fortune 500 companies before shifting to founder-led businesses. He helps clients raise their top line, which solves about half of all business problems. He took one client from the edge of bankruptcy to $1.5 million in 2025, projecting $5 million this year. [00:05:20] What Inspires Him: Helping People Who Help People Don describes himself as a giver whose mission is to help people who help other people. He only takes on work that feeds that personal mission. The bigger the ripple, the better. [00:08:00] Build the Best Team, Not a Team That Looks Like You Don used to hire people who thought and worked exactly like him, and says that was a mistake. The best teams have diverse viewpoints, thought patterns, and skill sets, like a football team. A leader's only two jobs are to cast the vision relentlessly and then go get the best people to make it real. [00:12:20] The Origin Story: A 19-Year-Old with a 67% Closing Rate Don dropped engineering when a part-time sales job out-earned his future degree. Within months he was the top rep out of 450 with a 67% closing rate, double the company average. He credits brutal honesty: people buy from someone who tells the truth. [00:15:57] The Foundational Principle: Be Trustworthy Don sold 17 houses in his first month in real estate, every one on the first visit. Trust is the foundational skill of all sales and leadership. Do what you say you will do and you will stand out. [00:17:40] The Google Stat Nobody Acts On The first vendor to speak with a customer wins the deal 71% of the time. If no one answers, they call the next business on the list. Answering the phone is one of the easiest ways to beat the competition. [00:19:00] The Client Results That Rock His World A client on the edge of bankruptcy closed 2025 at $1.5 million and is projecting $5 million this year. Don loves working with highly intelligent people who are sometimes low on emotional intelligence. All influence happens at the emotional level: the brain might veto something crazy, but the heart gets what the heart wants. [00:22:26] The Relationship That Changed Everything Don met a man at a meeting he knew would never close and told him they would work together someday. Two years later the man called, and they spent nearly a decade in the insurance industry together. Twenty-five years on they are building something in AI that Don expects to make them a near-household name. [00:24:40] The Business He Gave Away at 5 O'Clock Don opened a second business to support a sick friend, then gave the whole operation away when his friend passed. At 5 PM he told Dave it would be his at 5:01 or gone forever, and gave it away for free. Don buried Dave at the National Cemetery in Dallas this year and says no bank balance replaces relationships that mean something. [00:37:07] Final Thought: You Are Stronger Than You Think All success in life starts with how you see yourself. Your reality will follow your thoughts. His favorite quote, from Christopher Robin: you are far better, far smarter, and far stronger than you think.   KEY QUOTES "The foundational skill of all influence, whether it's leadership or sales, is trust. And if you want to build trust, be trustworthy. Do what you say you're gonna do. That will shock people, because they're not used to it." - Don Williams "Google stats say that the first potential vendor, the first potential service provider that speaks with the customer, wins the deal 71% of the time." - Don Williams "All your business success and all your awards and all those commas on your bank account won't make any difference if you don't like who you are and if you don't have relationships with people that mean something." - Don Williams CONNECT WITH DON WILLIAMS

Welcome to The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where we dive into the real stories of grit and growth that define the world of business. In this episode, host Don Williams is joined by Christian Brim, an entrepreneur with 28 years of experience and the founder of Core Group. Together, they explore the pivotal moments that take a founder from simply owning a job to building a scalable, high-impact organization.Christian shares his journey starting as a 27 year old who took a leap of faith by going into debt to purchase an accounting franchise. He reflects on the early days of "youthful ignorance," where a lack of fear allowed him to take risks that paved the way for his future success. However, the path was not without its hurdles. From facing extreme burnout to almost bankrupting his company due to an "unhealthy desire to grow," Christian is candid about the internal and external battles every leader faces.The conversation shifts to the critical mindset shifts required to stop being the bottleneck in your own business. Christian discusses the danger of self limiting beliefs, specifically the myth that one must work harder to make more money. Instead, he advocates for a model of leveraging the efforts of others and using the "language of accounting" to understand the true story your numbers are telling.Whether you are a creative agency owner or a seasoned founder, this episode offers a deep look into:The transition from a solo operator to a true business owner.How to handle the "gut punch" moments of entrepreneurship.The role of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in turning a struggling business around.The importance of being intentional about profit rather than just chasing top line revenue.Join us as we uncover how to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind by aligning your future vision with fiscal reality.Topics Discussed:Overcoming the "growth trap" and scaling with confidence.The concept of youthful ignorance in early stage startups.Moving past self limiting beliefs regarding money and effort.The difference between an EO qualifying business and a lifestyle job.Using financial storytelling to guide decision making.

In this master's class episode of the Smart Real Estate Coach Podcast, I sit down with Don Williams, entrepreneur, sales and leadership expert, and host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, to talk about what it really takes to go from W-2 employee to wealthy business owner and long-term real estate investor. Don's founded a dozen companies since 1986, started his first one with just $6,000, and bought his first commercial building almost by accident—then held it for decades while tenants paid down the debt.    We dig into why your tax situation changes the minute you stop taking a paycheck, the only two things that actually matter in business, how to use side hustles and coaching to de-risk the jump from corporate, and why buying the right deals and keeping them forever can quietly build "sleep-well" wealth.    If you're sitting on the fence about entrepreneurship or wondering how to scale your income and your portfolio, this conversation gives you a real, no-fluff roadmap.   Key Talking Points of the Episode   00:00 Introduction 01:01 Who is Don Williams? 03:15 Learning from failure and slow lessons 04:46 Leaving your W-2 and becoming a first-time entrepreneur 06:11 Side hustles, fear, and crossing the street 07:01 Why every serious entrepreneur needs a coach 08:05 Don's first commercial property deal 09:07 10,000-sq-ft office building breakdown 10:10 Negotiating a 10-year fixed-rate loan 11:16 Cash flow, repairs, and never feeding the building 14:14 A near-miss with property taxes and foreclosure 15:17 "Buy, pay-off, keep forever" strategy 16:37 Paying for the right coaches (and why cheap is expensive) 18:18 The 1% rule deal bought sight unseen 19:09 Reputation as your most valuable asset 20:07 Winning on the buy side, not the sell side 21:10 Skillset vs mindset for entrepreneurs 22:20 Paying $15,000 for a half-day with a "genius" 23:49 Why getting the right coach is key in entrepreneurship 25:25 College ROI vs elite coaching ROI 26:25 The XTO Energy story and not needing to own it all 28:04 Hiring the best people on planet Earth 29:45 How to connect with Don 32:05 Christopher Robin's advice for investors and entrepreneurs   Quotables   "I made about a zillion mistakes in everything I ever did, but I won often enough and big enough to get ahead of the game."   "People overcomplicate business. There's like only two things to do in business: one is bring money in and the other is keep money from leaving."   "When you deal with the very best people on planet Earth, you can't pay too much. They'll demand that they deliver an ROI to you."   Links   Don Williams Global https://donwilliamsglobal.com   Don Williams don@donwilliams.com   The Proven Entrepreneur https://provenentrepreneurshow.com/   Free Discovery Call https://smartrealestatecoachpodcast.com/discovery   3 Paydays® System Mastery Course - Use coupon code for 50% off https://smartrealestatecoach.com/qls Coupon code: pod   Apprentice Program https://3paydaysapprentice.com Coupon code: Podcast   Masterclass https://smartrealestatecoach.com/masterspodcast   3 Paydays Books https://3paydaysbooks.com/podcast   Strategy Session https://smartrealestatecoach.com/actionpodcast   Partners https://smartrealestatecoach.com/podcastresources

What if the business you're building starts scaling you instead of the other way around?In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Sid Jashnani, founder of Rekruuto, for a conversation that moves far beyond offshore staffing.Sid shares how Rekruuto was born during COVID from a simple, unexpected idea with his former assistant in the Philippines. What began as a way to help one person keep her job evolved into a global offshore staffing company serving businesses across the US and Europe — with over 200 team members and an employer-of-record model that supports Filipino professionals with real security and benefits.But this episode isn't just about remote teams.Don and Sid dive into:The biggest productivity lie entrepreneurs believeWhy chasing shiny AI ideas can quietly derail focusThe four-quadrant time audit every founder should runDelegation mistakes that destroy growthAI agents + humans and the future of outcome-based staffingLeadership lessons from scaling with strong complementary talentThen the conversation takes a deeply personal turn.Sid opens up about his son's rare diagnosis of aplastic anemia, the emotional breaking point that nearly collapsed both life and business, and how faith, systems, and perspective helped him rebuild.This episode is about entrepreneurship, yes. But it's also about resilience, priorities, family, leadership, AI in business, offshore hiring, and what truly matters when everything feels at risk.If you're a founder, operator, or leader trying to scale without losing yourself in the process, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.Entities MentionedDon Williams: Host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show.Sid Jashnani: Founder of Rekruuto and expert in global staffing.Rekruuto: A recruitment and staffing agency specializing in offshore talent from the Philippines.Marchee: Sid's former assistant and current business partner who co-founded Rekruuto.The Philippines: The primary hub for Rekruuto's specialized offshore talent pool.

This week we look at our country of the week - Hong Kong; Jimmy Lai;  Iran; Canadian Trans Shooting; The EU and Transwomen;  Silencing anti-abortion campaigners; Deleting justice files in the UK;  Pam Duncan-Glancey and the dangers of being friends with sinners;  Bad Bunny v. Kid Rock; The Winter Olympics - Ilia Malinin; Church of England abandons blessings for SSM couples; Feedback and the Final Word - James 3:13-18with music from Barry White; U2; Don Williams;  Cantonese Psalm 23;  The Proclaimers;  Bad Bunny; Kid Rock ; Fiddlers Dream; Living Word Collective; 

Most people don't ignore life insurance.They trust it.That's what makes this conversation unsettling in the best way.In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, Don Williams speaks with Frank Campbell, a veteran financial professional who has spent decades inside the life insurance industry. What he shares isn't about bad actors or rare edge cases. It's about how ordinary assumptions quietly turn into money mistakes, even for successful entrepreneurs and executives.This life insurance podcast explores what happens after a policy is signed and filed away. Frank walks through how policies are designed, how they change over time, and why many people only discover problems when a letter arrives years later. The kind of letter no one expects. The kind that turns “peace of mind” into panic.Through real examples and clear analogies, this financial planning podcast looks at the hidden mechanics behind long-term protection, the risks founders often overlook, and why reviewing insurance matters just as much as reviewing investments. It's not about fear. It's about understanding what you already own.If you're a business owner, executive, or professional who values wealth protection and long-term security, this entrepreneur finance podcast episode will make you pause before assuming everything is fine.Listen closely. Not everything that's quiet is working.

In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Clare Baukham, wealth strategist and founder behind Clear Wealth Group and Clear Art Reserve, for a deep conversation on quiet wealth, financial freedom, and how high-income professionals can rethink money without stress.This business podcast episode is designed for entrepreneurs, founders, executives, and professionals who earn well but feel that money is still loud, chaotic, or mentally exhausting. Clare shares how her journey from trading and traditional advisory work led her to develop quieter, more intentional wealth strategies that align with long-term freedom.As an entrepreneur podcast and wealth podcast, this conversation explores how wealthy individuals actually think about money, why income alone does not create peace, and how mindset shapes every financial decision. Listeners will hear why this approach is becoming essential in today's volatile world of noise, pressure, and constant hustle.You'll learn:1. Why quiet wealth is different from traditional success narratives2. How this financial freedom podcast reframes money as a tool, not a source of stress3. What separates loud investing from thoughtful financial strategy4. Why high earners struggle with money mindset despite successThis episode also fits perfectly for listeners searching for a money mindset podcast, a high net worth podcast, or an alternative investing podcast focused on clarity over chaos. Clare explains how founder thinking, long-term planning, and calm execution shape real wealth.If you're looking for a podcast about quiet wealth and financial freedom, an entrepreneur podcast on wealth mindset, or a podcast for high income professionals, this conversation delivers perspective without hype.Listen now and discover how wealthy people reduce financial stress by changing how they think, not just how they earn.

Hello and welcome again to the Motos and Friends Podcast. This episode is brought to you by Daytona Bike Week *  *  *  *  * In the first segment this episode Don Williams gives us a scrambler history lesson while telling us all about one of Honda's best kept secrets: the SCL500.  This mid-size scrambler-style Honda is a lifestyle statement that's also very functional. The mildly off-road aesthetic resonates with those who grew up on the original scramblers, as well as a new generation of riders who are drawn to the relaxed vibe of a bygone era; an incredibly easy to ride motorcycle that works incredibly well.  It's all about torquey fun at a very affordable price. *  *  *  *  * Now here's a really cool event coming up in just a few weeks that you absolutely must not miss! It's the 85th Annual Daytona Beach Bike Week, one of the world's premier motorcycle events. For 10 days from February 27 to March 8, we will kick off the new riding season in Daytona Beach, Florida where you can enjoy Bike Week events and scenic rides along historic Main Street to Midtown, the Scenic A1A Highway, and through the best of old Florida: the Ormond Beach Scenic Loop. If you love racing you have to be at Daytona International Speedway which has a jam-packed schedule of races: the 56th annual  DAYTONA Supercross, the Progressive American Flat Track, DAYTONA Short Track, and of course the historic DAYTONA 200. And don't forget to visit Teddy Morse's Daytona Harley-Davidson, the U.S. 1 corridors, and the rest of Volusia County. For information about Daytona Beach Bike Week including lodging availability, events, vendors, parking and more, go to the website OfficialBikeWeek.com or call the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce at 386-255-0981. We'll see you there! *  *  *  *  * Have you heard the latest news from Insta360 about the new Ace Pro 2 SuperMotocross Edition bundle? It's a cool partnership between Insta360 and the SMX World Championship, and created with world champion Jett Lawrence. The bundle features the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 action camera, which includes 8K AI-powered video, a large sensor, and Leica lens creating 4K 60fps video, with a PureVideo Mode for low light. It's waterproof, has a long-life 180-minute battery that fast-charges, and it supports 1TB microSD cards. The SuperMotocross Edition bundle includes the camera, a Helmet Chin Mount 2.0, two Flexible Adhesive Mounts, a Lens Guard, and a 128GB microSD card. So head over to Insta360.com and use promo code ULTIMATE. *  *  *  *  * In the second segment this episode, Teejay Adams chats with MotoAmerica LIVE+ presenter, Michael Hill. Mike is an established commentator and co-ordinator and host of the WorldSBK Paddock Show. If you subscribe to MotoAmerica's live streaming on-demand service, then you know who Michael Hill is. He can talk all day long about what's happening on-track and when there's nothing on-track, he ventures out to find fans to chat with on his live and very entertaining ‘Mike on The Mic' segments during Moto America race weekends. Mike and Teejay cover topics including the Isle of Man TT, and superstar Peter Hickman, World Superbike and Nicky Hayden, his charity work for Two Wheels for Life, and his thoughts on the new Baggers racing class in MotoGP. Michael also recently published his book ‘Superbikes, The Stage, and Me', that is available in all the usual places including Amazon, and Kindle. *  *  *  *  * Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com

What does it look like when a business partnership starts in childhood and survives real pressure?In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Dean Lyulkin and William Stern, co-founders of Cardiff, a privately held small business lender that has deployed more than $10 billion to Main Street businesses across the United States.Their story begins long before boardrooms and balance sheets. Dean arrived in America as a child refugee from Ukraine. William grew up alongside him in San Diego. They opened a joint bank account as teenagers, stayed friends through school and college, and eventually reunited to build a company that would weather the 2008 financial crisis, the collapse of traditional small business lending, and the economic shock of COVID.This conversation goes beyond numbers. Dean and William talk candidly about how partnerships actually work when opinions collide, why “strategic laziness” is really about delegation, and how leadership roles must evolve over time. They share lessons from scaling Cardiff with technology, navigating existential business crises, and keeping enough cash on hand when everything else feels uncertain.The episode also explores how their definition of success has changed over two decades. What started as ambition and growth has matured into something quieter and harder to protect: peace, freedom, and the ability to choose how and with whom they work.If you're an entrepreneur, founder, or business owner thinking about partnerships, leadership, or building something that lasts, this episode offers lived experience rather than theory.

What separates successful entrepreneurs from those who struggle? RJon Robins, a licensed attorney turned business transformation expert, reveals the uncomfortable truth in this game-changing episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show.In this raw and honest conversation with host Don Williams, RJon shares how he built a $36 million organization that serves hundreds of law firms while managing everything from CEO services to sales training and bookkeeping operations. But the real story isn't about the wins. It's about the losses that forced him to pivot.Discover the critical difference between understanding your business and getting lost in the practice of your profession. Learn why lawyers, doctors, restaurateurs, and countless other professionals make the same costly mistake that holds them back from scaling. RJon breaks down the one question he's asked to thousands of entrepreneurs since 1999 that most still get wrong.Hear the painful $3 million lesson about hiring that transformed into a blessing, resulting in a business model that's set to grow from $35 million to $150 million in the next three years. Understand why failing fast is infinitely better than slow, agonizing suffering, and how the biggest failures often lead to the biggest wins.This episode covers real entrepreneurial challenges, from marketing campaigns that bombed to the importance of shipping your work even when it's not perfect. RJon shares his unconventional approach to building an audience, creating trust, and letting customers tell you what products and services they actually need.You'll hear practical wisdom about hiring professionals who can compress decades into years, why paralyzing perfectionism kills momentum, and how to view every setback as a learning opportunity rather than a failure. This conversation cuts through the motivational fluff and gives you the strategic clarity that separates thriving entrepreneurs from struggling ones.Whether you're thinking about starting a business, scaling an existing one, or stuck in the gap between having a practice and having a real business, this episode offers the perspective shift you need.Content Highlights:Why understanding your business is completely different from mastering your professionThe $3 million hiring mistake that became a strategic breakthroughWhy bigger failures create bigger wins in entrepreneurshipHow to build an audience and let them tell you what to sellThe one question that reveals most entrepreneurs are confused about their businessWhy shipping imperfect work beats endless planningHow to hire professionals who compress years of learning into monthsThe waiting list strategy that protects brand quality while building demandReal examples from law firms, restaurants, hotels, and beyondThe mindset shift from "I have a practice" to "I have a business"

GRAMMY winner and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Mike Reid chats about his remarkable musical life. PART ONEScott and Paul talk about the sports games and so much morePART TWOOur in depth conversation with Mike ReidABOUT MIKE REIDNashville Songwriters Hall of Famer Mike Reid has written twelve #1 country songs and has had his work recorded by Bonnie Raitt, Anita Baker, Bette Midler, Prince, George Michael, Nancy Wilson, Etta James, Kenny Rogers, Ann Murray, Wynonna Judd, Alabama, Joe Cocker, Tanya Tucker, Willie Nelson, Collin Raye and Tim McGraw. He is perhaps best known for co-writing the modern-day standard “I Can't Make You Love Me” with Allen Shamblin. Launching his music career as a staff songwriter for country star Ronnie Milsap's publishing company, Reid penned Milsap hits such as “Stranger in My House,” which won a Grammy for Best Country Song” and “Lost in the Fifties Tonight,” which was named ASCAP's Country Song of the Year. As an artist, Mike signed with Columbia Records and scored a #1 hit with the self-penned “Walk on Faith.”Others who've recorded Reid's songs include Tammy Wynette, Rita Coolidge, Don Williams, Billy Dean, Josh Turner, Shelby Lynne, The Judds, George Jones, and Shania Twain. A true Renaissance man, Reid went on to compose theatrical and operatic works, winning a Richard Rodgers Development Award from the Academy of Arts and Letters for 1997's The Ballad of Little Jo. His most recent project is a collaborative album with Joe Henry called Life and Time.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most entrepreneurs don't fail because of the market… they fail because they never learn to let go.This episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show brings you a refreshingly honest Bill Duguay interview—one that cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what real leadership looks like when the pressure is real, the stakes are high, and the vision feels bigger than the person holding it.Bill's journey didn't start in a boardroom. It started sweeping floors, picking up nails, working his way through engineering school, and eventually becoming a president and CEO. Somewhere between the job sites, long nights, and never-ending responsibility, he discovered the one thing most founders never figure out: how to lead without losing yourself.Inside this conversation, you'll hear how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) transformed his approach to entrepreneurship, business management, and business growth—not as a theory, but as a lived experience. Don Williams and Bill move through the kinds of stories and insights that only show up when people talk without filters: why leaders avoid the conversations their teams desperately need, how effective delegation actually works, and why some entrepreneurs stay stuck long after their business outgrows their habits.They dive into topics like: The hidden cost of trying to hold everything together Why the best leaders learn to step back before they step up How EOS helps small business leadership teams stop spinning and start scaling The emotional battle behind letting go of the “chief-doer” identity Building an aligned, healthy culture without burning out What real leadership team coaching sounds like in the trenches Why communication—not strategy—is the real dividing line between thriving and drowningThere's no preaching here. No clichés. Just two seasoned voices breaking down what happens when vision meets reality—and how the right operating system can pull a business (and a leader's life) back into balance.If you're in the stage where your company is growing but your calendar, emotions, or expectations are collapsing… this Entrepreneurial Operating System podcast episode may be the one that finally gives you clarity.Download it. Listen closely. Your next leadership breakthrough might be hiding in this conversation.

What happens when a medical device executive walks away from a stable 17-year career to build a digital marketing agency in one of the most complex industries on Earth? In this compelling episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Saul Marquez, founder and CEO of Outcomes Rocket, to uncover the untold story of pivoting, perseverance, and the power of trusting your gut in healthcare entrepreneurship.Before he founded Outcomes Rocket, Saul Marquez spent 17 years in medical devices, living what many would call a "dream career." In this candid conversation with host Don Williams on The Proven Entrepreneur Show, Saul shares how he walked away from that security to build a specialist healthcare marketing agency serving health tech, medical device companies, and ambulatory provider groups. If you've ever felt torn between a safe path and a bigger vision, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar in the best way.You'll hear Saul break down his simple decision framework of "dreams and data"—how he used both gut instinct and real-world evidence from over 2,000 podcast interviews with healthcare leaders to validate his leap into healthcare entrepreneurship. The discussion dives deep into health tech marketing, medical device marketing, and why "you sell like you buy" is one of the most practical mindset checks for any founder, CEO, or marketing leader. They unpack why "cheap marketing" is so expensive, when to stop DIYing and hire real experts, and how to think about podcasts and webinars for lead generation in today's healthcare landscape.Saul also shares a raw story about a webinar gone wrong—a painful early failure that turned into a long-term client relationship and bulletproof SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) through radical ownership. Along the way, Don and Saul talk about comfort zones, "burn the boats" moments, choosing mentors wisely, and what big thinkers in healthcare are really struggling with behind the scenes. This conversation covers essential topics for anyone navigating the intersection of healthcare business growth and digital transformation.What You'll Learn:How to validate a business idea using the "dreams and data" framework before taking the leapWhy healthcare commercialization requires strategic marketing partnerships, not budget solutionsThe psychological barriers keeping healthcare professionals from becoming successful entrepreneursHow B2B healthcare marketing differs from other industries and why it requires specialized expertiseThe role of content marketing, webinars, and podcasts in healthcare lead generationWhy 10X growth is easier than 2X growth—and what that means for your strategyHow to recover from catastrophic failures and turn them into competitive advantagesThe importance of surrounding yourself with mentors who've already achieved your goalsPractical strategies for health tech and medical device company growthThe "three M's of leadership": Mindset, Mission, and MethodologyWhy This Episode Matters:This isn't generic entrepreneurship advice—it's a masterclass in healthcare business strategy from someone who's built a thriving agency while serving some of the most complex organizations in the industry. If you're a health tech founder, medical device company leader, healthcare CEO, ambulatory provider, or anyone in the healthcare sales space wondering why your marketing isn't working, this conversation will rewire how you think about growth.Subscribe to The Proven Entrepreneur Show for more unfiltered conversations with leaders building billion-dollar healthcare businesses and navigating healthcare commercialization.

Are you chasing unrealistic sales goals or struggling to scale despite working harder than ever? Sales can feel messy when goals are unclear and the pressure keeps rising. In this episode, Doug C. Brown brings a calm and practical view that helps founders and sales leaders look at growth with a clearer mind. His approach is shaped by years of real work with entrepreneurs, corporations, and fast growing teams. The conversation touches on the moments that decide whether a buyer leans in or steps back, the habits that block progress, and the simple actions that keep revenue steady even in a tough market.Doug shares how most sales challenges begin with unrealistic goals, unclear ideal clients, and teams that freeze when stress climbs. He talks about his early lessons from his father, cases from his consulting work, and the math based approach he uses to help businesses build predictable revenue. You will hear how re engaging dormant clients creates fast results, why the right buyer matters more than the loudest market, and how small wins can shift a team out of fear and back into performance. The episode also includes a candid moment from Doug's own life when he had to rebuild using nothing but his phone and his network.Topics discussed include the sales mindset, predictable revenue, buyer psychology, ideal client identification, prospecting, client retention, outbound strategy, performance habits, realistic goal setting, and relationship driven selling. Entities mentioned in the conversation include CEO Sales Strategies, private consulting clients, and stories from Doug's early work in his family's business.If you are an entrepreneur, a solopreneur, a founder, or someone responsible for sales inside a growing company, this episode gives you practical insight you can use today. Listen in, take a few notes, and you may find that the path to growth is easier than it looks once the mind gets clear.Entities & Resources Mentioned:Doug C. Brown: CEO of CEO Sales Strategies.Don Williams: Host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show.Judge Ziglar: Brother of Zig Ziglar and world-record holder in sales (referenced by Don).Glengarry Glen Ross: Referenced regarding outdated "Always Be Closing" tactics.Book: Romancing Your Customer by Don Williams.Concept: The Rolodex (as a metaphor for your network).

This episode brings listeners into a thoughtful conversation between Don Williams and Jermane Cheatham, set within the world of entrepreneur stories and the kind of successful entrepreneur interview that encourages reflection. Their discussion fits naturally inside a business growth podcast and leadership podcast environment while staying grounded in the lessons that come from real work and real choices. Jermane shares how freedom-based entrepreneurship shaped his path and why simple business models continue to guide his decisions. The conversation touches on the founder mindset, how founders stay motivated and the moments where resilience in business matters more than speed. Don explores how entrepreneurs simplify operations without losing momentum and how to create financial freedom without burnout. Each part of their dialogue shows how clarity grows when a person pays attention to the work that feels steady and aligned rather than forced.Listeners also hear how leveraging partnerships can shorten the path to progress and why a healthy sales mindset is often built on listening rather than pressure. It feels less like a sales podcast and more like an honest look at how influence, trust and small shifts can create long-term benefits. The themes of business mindset transformations and simple daily habits repeat throughout the episode without giving away the details behind them.If you want a conversation that speaks to founders who value focus over noise, this episode offers a calm and grounded look at the habits that support a stable business life. Press play to experience a meaningful exchange that may help you see your own work through a clearer lens.

What if your 9-to-5 wasn't the end goal - but the launchpad to freedom?In this powerful episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Luke Van Der Veer, founder of Website Rental Coaching, to uncover how one decision to escape a corporate job turned into a thriving entrepreneurial movement.Luke Van Der Veer shares how he went from working in human resources to building a six-figure passive-income business by renting SEO-optimized websites to small businesses. He reveals the mindset shifts that transformed his frustration into freedom, how he helps others create their own income streams, and why true success isn't measured in money - but in impact and peace of mind.You'll learn how Luke built a creative, sustainable business model that balances income, independence, and influence - and what it really takes to transition from employee to entrepreneur without losing your sanity.In This Episode with Luke Van Der Veer:How to build a profitable website rental business from scratchThe mindset and resilience required to quit the 9-to-5 lifeLessons from Luke's journey - from failure to financial freedomWhy impact matters more than incomeHow entrepreneurs can create balance, peace, and purposeLuke's story isn't just inspiring - it's proof that anyone can rewrite their career path and build a life of meaning, flexibility, and ownership.Tune in now to discover the step-by-step lessons from Luke Van Der Veer's entrepreneurial journey, and learn how to take your own leap into freedom.Connect with Luke Van Der Veer:Website: WebsiteRentalCoaching.comInstagram: LukeVanDerVeerConnect with Don Williams:Website: ProvenEntrepreneurShow.comYouTube: The Proven Entrepreneur Show

What happens when military precision meets entrepreneurial passion? In this inspiring episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Robert Braiman, founder of Cogent Analytics, to uncover the mindset, strategy, and soul behind one of America's top business consulting success stories.From his early days of service to building a nationwide firm with over 250 employees, Robert Braiman opens up about the real journey of entrepreneurship — the long nights, the leadership lessons, and the family-driven purpose that keeps founders going when the odds stack up.Together, Don and Robert explore:How military discipline shaped Robert's leadership and problem-solving mindset.The creation of Cogent's “Profit Platform” — a framework that helps entrepreneurs grow profitably and sustainably.The toughest conversations small business owners avoid — and how facing them leads to breakthrough growth.The real meaning of success, risk-taking, and work-life balance for modern entrepreneurs.How storytelling, mentorship, and purpose-driven leadership can transform any business into a wealth-building legacy.This isn't another feel-good business chat. It's a masterclass in building, leading, and scaling a purpose-driven business — one that thrives on Main Street, not just Wall Street.If you're an entrepreneur, creative agency founder, or small-business owner who wants to grow smarter (not just harder), this episode will reignite your why and give you actionable strategies to turn your business into a wealth creation vehicle.

What if the secret to building wealth wasn't working harder—but paying smarter?In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Mike Milligan, Certified Financial Planner and founder of 1 Oak Financial, to unpack the tax strategies and mindset shifts that helped him build a multi-million dollar business—while legally paying just 2% in total tax.Mike shares his journey from counting cash in coffee cans for his grandmother's cornbread sandwich hustle to becoming a bestselling author of The One-of-a-Kind Financial Plan. You'll hear how desperation sparked innovation, and how real-life lessons shaped his mission to help entrepreneurs build wealth and reclaim time.Topics Discussed:The #1 financial mistake entrepreneurs make (and how to fix it)Tax-saving strategies like the Augusta Rule and Section 179 depreciationWhy Mike moved to Puerto Rico for tax optimizationA real-life case study: how a realtor went from $40K to $1M net worthThe importance of working with entrepreneurs—not employeesListener Benefits:Learn how to legally reduce your tax burdenDiscover practical wealth-building strategiesGet inspired by real transformation storiesUnderstand how to reclaim time by outsourcingHear why working with entrepreneurial advisors mattersWhether you're a founder, real estate agent, B2B leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode delivers actionable strategies and real-world wisdom to help you thrive financially.

Hey there, fellow listeners! Don Williams here, and I'm thrilled to bring you another powerhouse episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show. Today, I'm joined by none other than Jesse Anderson, the brilliant mind behind Big Data Institute and IdealLead, all the way from Portugal (by way of Montana!).Jesse is a global authority in AI, data consulting, and sales optimization, and in this episode, he breaks down how smart businesses are using generative AI not just to follow trends—but to actually drive results. We dive deep into the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when implementing AI, why most lead generation efforts are a waste of time, and how Jesse's company Idealeed uses AI to pinpoint the exact B2B customers most likely to buy.We also explore:Why “adding AI” without strategy is a recipe for failureHow to build scalable AI systems that actually workThe truth about AI hallucinations and how to avoid themWhat makes a real AI expert vs. a LinkedIn pretenderHow data-driven decisions can transform your customer experienceWhether you're a founder, executive, or just curious about the future of technology adoption in business, this episode is packed with insights that will challenge your thinking and elevate your strategy.So grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to augment your humans, optimize your sales, and unlock the full potential of AI in entrepreneurship. Trust me—this one's a game-changer.

What would you do if you went 7 years without a paycheck, maxed out your home equity, and still couldn't get a bank to believe in your business?Welcome, dreamers, doers, and those stuck somewhere in between.This isn't just another business podcast. It's a front-row seat to a story that will shake your assumptions, stir your ambition, and maybe even make you a little uncomfortable—in the best way possible.Meet John Gleason, a man who didn't just flirt with risk—he married it. He took out a $67,000 loan against his modest Boston home, not to renovate or invest in something safe, but to build a business from scratch. No investors. No safety net. Just belief. And for seven long years, that belief was tested in ways most of us can't imagine. No paychecks. No bank support. Just mounting pressure, growing responsibilities, and a family watching it all unfold.But John didn't fold.He kept showing up. Day after day. Month after month. Year after year. And through it all, one thing never left his desk: a three-ring binder. Inside it? A business plan—not just a document, but a living, breathing roadmap that guided every decision, every pivot, every late-night call to a vendor asking for just a little more time.This episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show with host Don Williams isn't about overnight success. It's about the grind behind the glory. It's about what it really takes to go from being unbankable to securing a $1.785 million credit line, scaling to $14 million in revenue, and selling to a private equity firm—all without losing your soul.You'll hear about the moments that nearly broke him. The quiet conversations at home when the money ran out. The vendors who had to be convinced to stay. The employees who were given ownership of their roles and the freedom to lead. And the moment when, after years of struggle, John walked into a national trade show and walked out with a deal that changed everything.But this isn't just John's story. It's a mirror. A challenge. A reminder that the difference between those who make it and those who don't often comes down to one thing: the willingness to keep going when no one else believes it's worth it.So if you've ever felt like you're building something no one else understands…If you've ever wondered whether the sacrifice is worth it…If you're looking for a reason to keep going, or a blueprint to do it smarter…Download it. Listen to it. Let it remind you why you started—and what's still possible.

What happens when a founder treats AI like hiring Albert Einstein—brilliant, but useless without a clear brief? In this vivid conversation on The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams reconnects with long‑time friend Rodolfo Salazar from San Salvador, El Salvador, and together they chart a journey that begins with surf breaks near Surf City, detours through global boardrooms, and lands on a playbook any growth‑minded leader can use today. You'll step into Rodolfo's world as he moves from early entrepreneurship to executive roles at Sprint, Telefónica, Microsoft, and Dell, then into the contact‑center universe with a major BPO that ultimately ties to Convergys—an experience that reveals how large‑scale service operations can transform a country's economy. When a values test at the top levels forces a hard choice, Rodolfo chooses character over comfort, exits the corporate ladder, and returns to building. That decision sets the stage for IdeaWorks, then a post‑pandemic rebirth as Q‑DOX (spelled Q‑U‑D‑O‑X)—a growth company designed for a world where change arrives faster than most leaders' planning cycles.Across the episode, Don and Rodolfo unwind a deeply practical theme: identity‑first AI. AI, Rodolfo insists, is not your identity; it's your instrument. He illustrates this with a memorable story: if you ask “Einstein” to bring you pupusas from Galerías del Escalón and give him no context (what a pupusa is, where the mall is, which route to take on Waze), you'll get clever nonsense instead of useful action. Leaders, he argues, must supply context, constraints, and clarity—precisely the same foundations they owe their teams. That mindset folds into a broader operating model: stop buying isolated tactics and start assembling a growth ecosystem that compounds—website and messaging, content engine, analytics, automation, and AI co‑pilots working in one feedback loop. Rodolfo is candid about the scars too: the time he tried to scale offices across multiple Central American countries at once. The “cookie‑cutter” expansion failed because every market carried different partners, people, and variables. The fix was counterintuitive but powerful—centralize what must be controlled, open commercial presence thoughtfully, and scale only what the system can sustain.If you lead a company—owner, founder, or top‑management—this episode will feel like a field guide. You'll hear how to bake a DNA of change into your culture so the brand evolves deliberately, not reactively. You'll come away with a leadership stance that AI can't replace: clarity in communication, empathy for customers and teams, and creativity born from trial and error. You'll also hear how E‑E‑A‑T‑style credibility—first‑hand experience, proof, and transparency—earns trust with customers and, increasingly, with the systems that surface your content. Along the way, Don and Rodolfo name‑check the places and forces that shaped the journey—El Salvador, Latin America, cross‑border work from the U.S. to Singapore, and the contact‑center industry's outsized role in lifting entire job markets—while weaving in cultural details that make the story human.Come for the origin story, stay for the operating system. If you've wondered how to harness AI without losing who you are—or how to build a growth marketing engine that keeps learning—this conversation delivers a rare blend of philosophy, playbook, and humility. Press play, and let two seasoned operators show you how identity guides strategy, strategy guides prompts, and prompts guide results.Entities & Mentions:Host: Don WilliamsGuest: Rodolfo SalazarCompanies: iDigital Studios, QDOX, Microsoft, Dell, Telefonica, Sprint