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John continues his conversation with Dr. Rachel Fox. In this episode, Dr. Rachel talks about the inspiration behind her nonprofit, You Go Girl, which empowers girls and women by helping them with self-love & awareness, physical & mental health, and education. In Part 1, they discussed the struggles she faced, building a blended family, overcoming her daughter's serious illness, and how these experiences shaped her purpose and career. Listen to this episode to learn more: [00:00] - Story behind starting her nonprofit, You Go Girl [04:47] - Dr. Rachel's book: Back to Me: Evolved & Unshaken - A New Awakening [08:03] - The Gold in the Mud analogy [10:00] - Why Dr. Rachel stopped self-promoting her book [14:14] - Why you should buy multiple copies of a book [17:18] - Back to Me's availability on Kindle [17:55] - John's advice for overcoming fear of recording [22:11] - Don't die with your story inside you [25:10] - Dr. Rachel's definition of success [28:07] - Traits of a great leader [32:22] - #1 daily habit [34:00] - How Dr. Rachel invests in herself [36:31] - Coaches need coaches [37:28] - Creating family memories [42:00] - Best way to connect with Dr. Rachel [46:53] - Wrap-up NOTABLE QUOTES: “If girls aren't healed, they'll turn into women who are still broken. And that's why we focus on girls and women.” “Your first recording is always your first recording. It is your baseline. Because as you do it more, you get better at it. You start learning different tricks and things that work for you.” “I tell you how many times I failed … but there are a lot of lessons learned along the way.” “The things that we want to hide from, the things that we say, ‘Gosh, that was embarrassing. Oh my goodness, I can't believe that cringy moment,' those hold so many good lessons.” “You don't get to the shiny, pretty part without the heat, the fire, and knocking away the impurities.” “The worst feeling that I can think of in this kind of world is to die with your story inside you.” “You have to be ready for the feedback. And just because somebody has an opinion about you or your work doesn't make it true.” “A good leader allows you the space to grow, gives you the tools to be able to grow, celebrates you when you grow, and looks for that transformation.” “You never become more appreciative of life than when you see somebody so close to you hang on to it.” BOOK MENTIONED: The Awe Of God by John Bevere (https://a.co/d/9di9hV8) USEFUL RESOURCES: https://www.racheldfox.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheldfox/ https://www.instagram.com/racheldfox/ https://www.facebook.com/racheldfox https://x.com/theracheldfox https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oUKM0EYbaKjheENkGKX5A?view_as=subscriber Back to Me: Evolved & Unshaken - A New Awakening (https://a.co/d/8CmZfDK) CONNECT WITH JOHN Website - https://iamjohnhulen.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhulen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/johnhulen Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/johnhulen X - https://x.com/johnhulen YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLX_NchE8lisC4NL2GciIWA EPISODE CREDITS Intro and Outro music provided by Jeff Scheetz - https://jeffscheetz.com/
Why does brain inflammation happen during the freeze response? How do you explain the difference between stress and trauma to patients? What's the single most important starting point for nervous system regulation? This episode answers these critical questions while revealing why emotional eating isn't a willpower problem and introducing the simple three-day tracking tool that changes everything for healing. You'll discover the critical line of overwhelm - that invisible threshold where stress becomes trauma - and learn practical strategies you can implement immediately to support your nervous system and begin the repair process. In this episode you'll learn: [01:19] The Biggest Myth: Why confusing stress and trauma leads to minimizing experiences and self-shame [02:11] Physician's Lens on Trauma: If it makes you sick 20 years later, it wasn't just stress [06:04] Three Nervous System States: Understanding polyvagal theory and the critical line of overwhelm [09:52] Brain Inflammation During Freeze: Why immune cells unleash inflammation as protective survival strategy [13:25] Dysregulation Multiplied by Time: Why autoimmunity takes 20 years of nervous system dysregulation to appear [14:40] Three-Day Nervous System Journal: Simple hourly tracking tool that reveals hidden patterns [19:00] The Gut-Brain Connection: Why your gut is inseparable from brain health and trauma loops [21:22] Emotional Eating and Functional Freeze: Understanding food's hidden functions beyond willpower [24:40] The #1 Starting Point: Why quality sleep has greatest impact on nervous system regulation [25:44] Aligning with Circadian Rhythm: Morning sunlight, red light therapy, and working with your body's healing strategies Main Takeaways: Stress vs. Trauma Requires Different Repair: If it makes you sick 20 years later, it was trauma requiring fundamentally different approaches than stress management The Critical Line of Overwhelm: Personal capacity threshold where activation becomes trauma and the body automatically hits emergency brake Brain Inflammation Serves Protection: Immune cells unleash inflammation during freeze to facilitate disconnection and energy conservation for survival Time Compounds Dysregulation: Autoimmunity requires approximately 20 years of nervous system dysregulation to manifest as diagnosable disease Three-Day Tracking Creates Awareness: Hourly nervous system tracking reveals patterns showing time spent in shutdown, stress, or calm aliveness Innate Healing Requires Right Conditions: Surgical incisions prove the body heals itself when blocks are removed and proper support provided Gut-Brain Creates Stuck Points: Imbalanced gut causes neurochemical problems feeding back to worsen gut issues, limiting therapy progress Food Function Reveals Need: Emotional eating serves specific purposes - staying awake, avoiding feelings, managing energy - not willpower failure Sleep Impacts Everything: Quality sleep has greatest single effect on nervous system regulation and reduces sugar cravings Notable Quotes: "If it makes you sick 20 years later, that was not just stress. That was trauma your body was experiencing in childhood. You're looking at it through the lens of your adult self now, but that's not how you were experiencing it back then." "The critical line of overwhelm is where you've done your best. Your best wasn't good enough, and hitting the wall means there's no point in trying anymore." "Brain inflammation is part of a trauma response. Sometimes it triggers it. Sometimes it's triggered by the freeze response, but they always happen together." "Dysregulation multiplied by time becomes diagnoses. It's predictable." "Track your nervous system, and you'll be amazed at how much you learn about yourself in a week." Episode Takeaway: The critical line of overwhelm represents your personal threshold where stress becomes trauma and your body automatically engages the emergency brake. Brain inflammation during freeze is part of the deliberate survival strategy - helping you disconnect, go numb, and conserve energy for survival. The insight: dysregulation multiplied by time becomes disease. Autoimmunity takes approximately 20 years of compounded nervous system dysregulation to manifest. This explains why short-term stress doesn't cause chronic illness but prolonged trauma patterns do. The three-day nervous system journal - tracking your inner state hourly - reveals patterns invisible to both practitioners and clients. This tracking tool shows how much time you spend in each of the three states and guides targeted intervention. Quality sleep stands as the single most powerful starting point for nervous system regulation. Better sleep reduces emotional eating, decreases sugar cravings, and increases your capacity to handle stress before crossing that critical line into trauma territory. Resources/Guides: The Biology of Trauma book - Available now everywhere books are sold. Get your copy Foundational Journey - If you are ready to create your inner safety and shift your nervous system, join me and my team for this 6 week journey of practical somatic and mind-body inner child practices. Lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely and is the pre-requisite for becoming a Biology of Trauma® professional. Related Episodes: Episode 101: Brain Inflammation: Addressing The Overlooked Gatekeeper To Trauma Release with. Dr Austin Perlmutter Your host: Dr. Aimie Apigian, double board-certified physician (Preventive/Addiction Medicine) with master's degrees in biochemistry and public health, and author of the national bestselling book "The Biology of Trauma" (foreword by Gabor Maté) that transforms our understanding of how the body experiences and holds trauma. After foster-adopting a child during medical school sparked her journey, she desperately sought for answers that would only continue as she developed chronic health issues. Through her practitioner training, podcast, YouTube channel, and international speaking, she bridges functional medicine, attachment and trauma therapy, facilitating accelerated repair of trauma's impact on the mind, body and biology. Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please share and use your name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free and the discussion positive
In this episode of Do The Work | Mindset Mastery As we head into the final quarter of 2025, I can't help but reflect on how quickly this year has passed. For some it has been a year of breakthroughs, for others a season of struggle, and for many it has been the same repeated cycle with no real progress. I know that space well because I spent years stuck there, constantly comparing myself to others, replaying the same broken record of frustration and disappointment. What I learned is that when you remain in that weakened state and do nothing, it always makes things worse. There is no positive outcome that comes from inaction. It took me years of turmoil, fights at home, depression, and setbacks before I finally said enough was enough. I had to let go of arrogance, become a student, and follow a proven model with absolute discipline. That model taught me to take care of my body, grow my mind, and improve my business every single day. Eleven years later, that same discipline has carried me through highs and lows, created stability, and given me the responsibility to teach others to do the same. Last week, I interviewed one of our top producers, Felipe. His story hit hard. His mother in law is battling a terminal illness, and his family is carrying that weight every single day. Yet he continues to show up, smiling, working, and leading his family. He's able to remain strong because he follows the same model he built in times of peace. He makes his power deposits, his purpose deposits, and his profit deposits, even in the middle of heartbreak. That discipline allows him to stay strong when most would break. And that is the lesson. Discipline is what steadies you when the storms of life hit. Without it, you ride an emotional roller coaster that everyone around you feels your family, your clients, even strangers on Instagram. But with discipline, you create stability. You show up the same way whether life is good or life is breaking apart. You keep moving forward regardless of fear, anger, or doubt. I've lived this through every season of my business and my life: from financial ruin, to injuries, to losing agents, to being told the company wouldn't survive. And each time, I kept showing up, making my deposits, holding to the model. You wouldn't know my fear or my doubt because I refused to let it dictate my actions. That is what built this company, that is what built my family, and that is what continues to build my life today. So as we close this year, ask yourself: are you operating from feelings, or are you following a standard? Are you making deposits every day, or are you hoping that things just work out? Because without discipline, you don't stand a chance. With it, you create a foundation that allows you to not only survive but thrive no matter what comes your way. Reader Engagement Questions Where in your life do you need to raise your standard so discipline guides you instead of feelings? How do your family, clients, and peers experience you when things fall apart do they see strength or instability? What daily deposits can you commit to right now that will keep you steady through both success and hardship? Notable Quotes “If you are in a weakened position and you do nothing, it makes things worse. There is no positive that could come out of that.” “Discipline allows you to remain strong in moments of tragedy, in moments of weakness, in moments of doubt and fear but you wouldn't know.” “Regardless of where I am in life, I show up the very same way day in and day out. But again, you wouldn't know.” Follow A.Z. Araujo on Social Media: Instagram: @azaraujo Facebook: A.Z. Araujo TikTok: A.Z. Araujo YouTube: Do The Work Podcast For Real Estate Agents in AZ: Learn more about Do The Work Coaching and A.Z. & Associates: dothework.com/azaa Upcoming Events: If you're a real estate brokerage owner, sign up for one of our upcoming events. Visit: dothework.com bigmoneybrokerage.com Join my mailing list for updates! New Do The Work Gear: Check out the latest DTW and Do The Work Gear! Hats, shirts, journals, and more: • • shop.dothework.com
How Workshops Win: Emotion-First Public Speaking for Cash-Based PT Lead Gen In this episode, Doc Danny Matta lays out how to fill your schedule by getting in front of real people—workshops, talks, and small group education—and connecting emotionally before you ever ask for the appointment. He explains direct-response marketing for cash-based clinics, the “feelings before logic” rule, and a practical script stack (frustration → “imagine if” → personal story → action) that turns talks into patients. Quick Ask Help PT Biz move toward the mission of adding $1B in cash-based services to our profession: share this episode with a clinician friend or post it to your IG stories and tag Danny—he'll reshare it. Episode Summary Direct-response > referrals: Cash clinics grow fastest by going straight to the people (gyms, clubs, teams, parent groups), not by waiting on physician referrals. Workshops convert: Live education (in-person or virtual) is a predictable way to create trust and book consults. Feelings before facts: Lead with frustration, fear, and hope—the human stuff—then layer in the plan. Positive vision beats fear: “Imagine if…” scenarios help audiences see the future they want and move toward it. Stories sell: Personal experience (e.g., your own injury journey) creates instant credibility and connection. Let them say it: When attendees voice their own stakes and frustrations, commitment skyrockets. The Emotional Connection Framework Appeal to feelings before logic. Name the frustration in their language (“Isn't it frustrating when…?”) to open the door to change. Use “Imagine if…” Paint a clear, positive future state (pain-free golf trips, finishing workouts, keeping up with kids). Share something personal. Brief, relevant story that mirrors their journey (e.g., your own ACL rehab or chronic pain lesson). Make them feel the problem. Skip the RCT lecture; speak to missed experiences and what they're giving up. Elicit their why. Ask direct questions so they articulate what's at stake—then show the next step. Field Notes & Examples Workshops that work: Gyms, run clubs, golf leagues, youth sports parents, corporate wellness lunches, and private FB groups. The “gruff granddad” story: A patient's Disney scooter and coaster seatbelt moment became the emotional turning point—once he said it, change followed. Military → MobilityWOD/CrossFit reps: Coaching, audits, and “mystery shopper” feedback sharpened delivery—reps matter. Pro Tips You Can Use Today Book two talks this month. One in person, one virtual. Keep each to 25–30 minutes + Q&A. Script the open. 90 seconds: frustration opener → “imagine if” vision → your 20-second origin story. Give a simple plan. 3 steps max. Clear, doable, no jargon. Single CTA. “Grab a free 15-minute consult today”—QR code + signup sheet + link. Debrief after. What hook landed? What question came up most? Tighten the next talk. Notable Quotes “If you want action, connect emotionally first. Feelings open the door; logic walks them through it.” “I'd rather pull people toward the future they want than push them with fear. ‘Imagine if…' changes the room.” “When they say what hurts and what they want back, commitment follows.” Action Items Create a 1-page workshop outline: opener, 3 teaching points, 1 CTA. Make a list of 10 local/digital groups and pitch your talk this week. Design a QR code to your consult page and practice the closing script. Track: attendees → consults → plans of care. Iterate monthly. Programs Mentioned Clinical Rainmaker: Coaching + plan to get you full-time in your clinic. Mastermind: Scale beyond yourself into space, team, and systems. PT Biz Part-Time to Full-Time 5-Day Challenge (Free): Get crystal clear on expenses, visit targets, pricing, 3 go-full-time paths, and a one-page plan. Resources & Links PT Biz Website Free 5-Day PT Biz Challenge About Danny: Over 15 years in the profession—staff PT, active-duty military PT, cash-practice founder and exit—now helping 1,000+ clinicians start, grow, and scale cash-based practices with PT Biz.
Travis and producer Eric break down one of the most polarizing topics in entrepreneurship: is it better to bootstrap a business, or raise outside capital? Drawing on personal experience and lessons from startup culture, Travis reveals the biggest mistakes founders make when chasing VC funding, why Silicon Valley's obsession with investment misleads so many, and the first principles everyone should use to decide how to launch any new company. On this episode we talk about: The dangers and downsides of raising funding too early—even if the “checklist” seems to fit your business Why bootstrapping builds discipline, pressure, and actual proof of concept (and how to get creative when money is tight) When venture capital makes sense—and all the hidden costs of taking outside money, from loss of control to preferential contracts How AI is changing the software startup equation, and shrinking the need to raise massive amounts of funding Lessons learned from infamous failures (like Quibi) and the right ways to audit your business before chasing investment Top 3 Takeaways 1. Bootstrapping is almost always the better first move; it boosts discipline, real market feedback, and keeps control in the founder's hands.2. Raising outside capital adds pressure, complex contracts, and doesn't guarantee success; cash alone never fixes a business that lacks product-market fit.3. Use trusted frameworks (like Reid Hoffman's Blitzscaling checklist), consult experienced founders, and remember: don't give away control unless it's truly required for growth. Notable Quotes “If at all possible, bootstrap first—even just to prove your concept. Outside money makes everything more complicated.” “Cash doesn't solve all your problems. There are usually bigger issues at play—product, marketing, market fit—that have nothing to do with funding volume.” “The moment you take other people's money, it gets harder, not easier; discipline and focus will always win.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn Twitter/X: @travischappell Instagram: @travischappell Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️
In this episode, Travis and producer Eric dive into the uncomfortable but crucial world of pricing your services and mastering sales. They discuss real strategies, share personal struggles, and break down Alex Hormozi's now-famous “closed rate pricing gauge cheat sheet.” Whether you're a freelancer, agency owner, or business leader, you'll learn how to stop undercharging for your work, confidently sell your value, and turn price conversations from awkward to awesome. On this episode we talk about: How to use close rates to determine if your prices are too low (or too high) Overcoming anxiety around sales and setting prices for friends, family, and clients Writing scripts and using prep tools (like ChatGPT) to gain confidence before making offers Sales conversation frameworks—discovery, demo, value-building, and closing Actionable advice for firing low-value clients, upselling, and navigating new price points Top 3 Takeaways 1. If your close rate is above 60–80%, you're probably undercharging; double or triple your prices and focus on building real value for the right clients.2. Good sales is about diagnosing problems and becoming a trusted advisor—not just pitching; scripts, discovery, and prep are your friends.3. Retention is easier than acquisition, but honesty and transparency are key when raising prices or letting legacy clients go. Notable Quotes “If you can describe the problem better than they can, people will assume you have the solution.” “Most people aren't paying for a deal—they're paying for results from someone they trust to deliver.” “You're either selling stuff or building stuff. Everything else is noise.” Connect with Travis Chappell: LinkedIn: Travis Chappell on LinkedIn Twitter/X: @travischappell Instagram: @travischappell Website: travischappell.com ✖️✖️✖️✖️
On this solo episode, Travis breaks down the right (and wrong) way to handle the dreaded “your price is too expensive” objection—featuring FBI negotiator Chris Voss's real-world advice alongside Travis's own experience selling high-ticket podcasting services. If skipping straight to discounts has ever cost you a deal or margin, this episode gives you battle-tested scripts and the mindset needed to sell with confidence and preserve premium pricing. On this episode we talk about: Chris Voss's formula for uncovering the real reasons behind price objections Why you should almost never cut your price—and what to say instead When customer “pushback” is just a complaint (not an objection) How to build so much value with overdelivery that price is a non-issue Travis's personal client example of winning deals at 3X the competitor's price—without haggling Top 3 Takeaways 1. Isolate price resistance—ask clarifying questions to uncover if the concern is real, or just noise.2. Lead with empathy, then confidently explain the real value—don't counter “expensive” with discounts or apologies.3. High-value service earns high prices—overdeliver, believe in your offer, and treat objections as opportunities for better conversations (not price cuts). Notable Quotes “If there's price pressure, the answer is better service—not a discount.” (Chris Voss) “Objections aren't always real. Treat it like a complaint until it becomes genuine.” “Be confident: If you overdeliver, whatever you're charging is a bargain.” Connect with Chris Voss: LinkedIn: Chris Voss Book: Never Split the Difference ✖️✖️✖️✖️
In this captivating episode of On Adventure, I sit down with the legendary Bob Becker - ultramarathoner, race director, and age-defying adventurer - to unpack his incredible journey from late-blooming runner to becoming the oldest finisher of the Badwater 135, one of the world's toughest ultramarathons. At 80 years old, Bob proves that it's never too late to rewrite your story, conquer deserts, and inspire generations. Whether you're an aspiring endurance athlete, race organizer, or simply someone looking for motivation to stay active, this episode delivers.
A deeply personal and timely conversation with Governor John Kasich on bridging divides, living your values, and why forgiveness is essential in today's fractured political landscape. We were so pleased to be joined by Governor John Kasich who opens up about the role of faith, forgiveness, and civic duty in his life and career. The conversation spans everything from the tragic loss of his parents to a drunk driver, his evolving views on religion and politics, to the lessons shared in his newest book Heaven Help Us. Governor Kasich's winsome curiosity sparked a profound dialogue about personal transformation, ideological differences, and how to build bridges in divided times.
A deeply personal and timely conversation with Governor John Kasich on bridging divides, living your values, and why forgiveness is essential in today's fractured political landscape. We were so pleased to be joined by Governor John Kasich who opens up about the role of faith, forgiveness, and civic duty in his life and career. The conversation spans everything from the tragic loss of his parents to a drunk driver, his evolving views on religion and politics, to the lessons shared in his newest book Heaven Help Us. Governor Kasich's winsome curiosity sparked a profound dialogue about personal transformation, ideological differences, and how to build bridges in divided times.
In this special reverse interview episode, my friend and colleague Steven Wright from Healthy Gut interviews me about the core concepts from my upcoming book, The Biology of Trauma. Steven understands the somatic work, the parts work, the biology, the capacity, and the overwhelm from his own healing journey, making this conversation uniquely insightful. I share stories I haven't told anywhere else - including my keto diet disaster during surgery residency that became my first clue about the biology of trauma. We explore why I rewrote this book seven times, how I discovered I had all three major biochemical imbalances, and the painful decision to place my adopted son Miguel in a different home - the grief that ultimately led to my autoimmune diagnosis and this entire body of work. Key Topics & Timestamps [00:00] The Eight Drafts of the book: Dr. Aimie's journey as an author [04:12] Beyond ACEs Scores: Why we can become obsessed with our score [08:36] Capacity is Everything: Understanding your nervous system's dynamic capacity [13:47] The Biology Block: How Dr. Aimie discovered her own biology was sabotaging her trauma healing [21:55] The Pain Equation: When humans decide to change [25:44] Perception vs. Reality: How we create mountains from molehills [28:19] The Healing Timeline: Why trauma work doesn't have to be a lifelong journey [34:04] Safety First: The critical sequence for healing trauma without retraumatization [37:18] Stress vs. Trauma: The crucial distinction that changes everything [38:18] Miguel's Story: The heartbreaking adoption journey that changed Dr. Aimie Main Takeaways The Three-Legged Stool: True trauma healing requires addressing psychological, emotional, AND biological aspects simultaneously Biology Keeps You Stuck: Inflammation, oxidative stress, and biochemical imbalances create internal danger signals that perpetuate trauma responses Capacity Changes Moment to Moment: Your nervous system's capacity is dynamic and requires constant awareness, not just daily check-ins Perception Creates Your Reality: Your body responds to your perception of danger, not actual danger - making that molehill into a mountain The Right Sequence Matters: Creating safety must come before attempting to process trauma, or symptoms worsen Fast Healing is Possible: When addressing all three domains properly, healing happens faster than medication with only positive "side effects" Notable Quotes "If something makes you sick, that is not stress. Let's call it for what it is. That is your body having gone into a trauma response." "Our capacity is not being measured up against our reality, it's being measured up against our perceptions." "The pain of staying the same has to become so bad that we're willing to undergo the pain of change." "If their body had already felt safe, it would have already opened up all of this stuff and let all of these emotions and trauma go. It hasn't felt safe." Episode Takeaway Trauma healing doesn't have to be a lifelong journey. By understanding that trauma lives in your biology - not just your mind - and following the proper sequence of safety, support, then expansion, you can heal faster than traditional approaches suggest. The key is addressing all three aspects: psychological, emotional, and biological, rather than focusing on just one. Resources Related To This Episode Resources/Guides: Biology of Trauma book - Bonuses are available when you Pre-order now. Go Deeper With Dr. Aimie with The Biology of Trauma Book (available only until September 22nd): Guided Seeker: Get the Workbook + Mastercourse to go with the book - walking you through each chapter's key concepts Accelerated Implementer: Everything above + live half-day online group intensive with Dr. Aimie for implementation support Fast Track Professional: Everything above + one full day in-person with Dr. Aimie at her home to identify your biggest personal block to your next level of healing and regulation as a professional and guide for others Foundational Journey - If you want to be guided through The Essential Sequence laid out in the Roadmap and the book, join me and my team for this 6 week journey into your inner world with practical somatic and parts self-practices to lay your foundation to do the deeper work safely. These are the daily practices I have found that change one's biology and health symptoms the fastest. Steven Wright - Healthy Gut - Learn more about Steven's gut-brain support products: HoloZyme™ digestive enzymes with dual-strain activation technology, Tributyrin-X™ for microbiome diversity and gut lining health, and HCL Guard™ for protein digestion support Related Episode: Episode 122: Shutdown Before Stress: The Misstep in Trauma Healing That Often Gets Missed Related YouTube Video: Shutdown Before Stress: The Misstep in Trauma Healing That Often Gets Missed | Dr. Aimie Apigian About Dr. Aimie Apigian Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine who bridges the gap between Western medicine and somatic healing practices. After her own health crisis in 2014 while in medical residency, she discovered how stored trauma was affecting her biology. She has since dedicated her career to helping others understand and heal the biological impacts of trauma through her courses, clinical practice, and her new book "The Biology of Trauma." Disclaimer: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical, psychological, or mental health advice to treat any medical or psychological condition in yourself or others. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your own physician, therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified health provider regarding any physical or mental health issues you may be experiencing. Comment Etiquette: I would love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please share your constructive feedback by using personal name or initials so that we can keep this space spam-free, and let's keep the discussion positive!
Travis teams up with his producer Eric for an actionable episode on budgeting you'll actually stick to. Forget the generic advice and unrealistic expectations—this episode tackles the real-life habits, tools, and mental shifts that help you put (and keep) more money in the bank. Travis breaks down the parallels between honest financial tracking and fitness, shares how his own family discovered hidden cash leaks, and discusses proven apps and systems that make saving automatic and attainable at any income level. On this episode we talk about: Why “eyeballing” your budget is like trying to lose weight without tracking calories The surprising expenses (bites, licks, tastes… and subscriptions) that sabotage your savings Lessons Travis learned from catching years of double-billed HOA fees How to identify (and cut) spending that doesn't actually make life better Hands-on reviews of apps and systems like EveryDollar and Rocket Money, with tips for making them work for you The value of splitting money into separate savings accounts and “paying yourself first” Top 3 Takeaways 1. Tracking every dollar for even just a couple months will instantly highlight where money is leaking out—and where painless cuts can add up fast.2. Use budgeting apps (EveryDollar, Rocket Money, or similar) to create intentional systems, not just wishful thinking, and to automate savings for major goals.3. Developing focus around spending is as important as optimizing income—and the discipline you build budgeting will serve every other area of your financial life. Notable Quotes "If you haven't tracked every dollar for multiple months, you can't say you have a real budget—eyeballing always misses key details." "You'll be surprised what you see after looking at the data. Suddenly, it's obvious what to cut and what to keep.” "Budgeting is about being honest with yourself—a few months of real tracking creates lasting habits and real surplus." ✖️✖️✖️✖️
John continues his chat with Austin Armstrong. They discuss the evolving role of AI in education and business, strategies for integrating AI into your workflow, the upcoming AI Marketing World Conference, and the AI tools Austin recommends. In Part 1, Austin shared his journey from MySpace to building Syllaby, an AI startup that helps content creators, entrepreneurs, and business leaders create and share content faster and easier. Listen to this episode to learn more: [00:00] - Recap of Part 1 [01:24] - AI Marketing World Conference [04:21] - Julia McCoy at the conference [05:08] - Who the conference is for [06:00] - How AI is changing education and student cheating [10:03] - Why teachers should focus on critical thinking [11:57] - AI tool recommendations [15:39] - Austin's definition of success [16:01] - Top daily habit [18:57] - Austin's upcoming book, Virality [20:18] - Traits of a great leader [20:53] - Best way to connect with Austin [24:39] - Book recommendations [25:25] - Closing thoughts NOTABLE QUOTES: “If you set out to accomplish something, or have a set desire or outcome, and you achieve that, that's a success.” “It's getting easier and easier to cheat, and I think the most important thing that teachers can do is to know that this is happening and adjust to critical thinking.” “The problem is that critical thinking is not taught in school, because the school system does not want critical thinkers. They want robots.” “If you're going to embrace AI in the school system, you have to allow and enforce critical thinking.” “Lead by example. That's always been a core belief of mine, that I'm not just going to bark orders at you. Anything that I tell you to do is based on something that I've previously done or have experience with first.” “Don't be a content creator. Be a business owner who creates content.” BOOKS MENTIONED: Buy Back Your Time: Get Unstuck, Reclaim Your Freedom, and Build Your Empire by Dan Martell (https://a.co/d/hgFEgso) The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (https://a.co/d/4Q9XT6C) AI TOOLS: ChatGPT (https://openai.com/ ) Claude (https://www.anthropic.com/claude ) Grok (https://grok.com/) Copilot (https://copilot.microsoft.com/chats/kyux5V4Rhz2VTzzW7AcRT ) LLaMA (https://www.llama.com/ ) Futurepedia.io (https://www.futurepedia.io/ ) FutureTools.io (https://www.futuretools.io/ ) There's An AI for That (https://theresanaiforthat.com/ ) Product Hunt (http://producthunt.com ) G2 (http://g2.com ) USEFUL RESOURCES: https://austinarmstrong.ai/ https://syllaby.io/ https://aimarketingworld.co/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinarmstrong90/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/trysyllaby/ https://www.facebook.com/Owwstin/ https://www.facebook.com/trysyllaby https://x.com/trySyllaby https://www.youtube.com/@syllaby https://www.tiktok.com/@syllaby.ai CONNECT WITH JOHN Website - https://iamjohnhulen.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhulen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/johnhulen Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/johnhulen X - https://x.com/johnhulen YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLX_NchE8lisC4NL2GciIWA EPISODE CREDITS Intro and Outro music provided by Jeff Scheetz - https://jeffscheetz.com/
What if real change doesn't begin with institutions, campaigns, or capital — but with the people we invite into our lives?In this episode, Eric sits down with Amanda Litman, co-founder of Run for Something and author of When We're In Charge, to explore how small, human-scale actions can spark transformational impact — from politics to parenting to how we rebuild our social lives post-pandemic.Amanda has helped 225,000+ people raise their hands to run for office — and she's just getting started. In this candid conversation, she breaks down how we show up, lead, connect, and fundraise in ways that build community rather than extract from it.Episode Highlights:[00:00] What if real change starts with people — not policy, profit, or programs? [02:49] Amanda's three-pronged theory of social change: electoral power, workplace culture, and human relationships [04:25] The power of “casual hosting” to rebuild adult friendships and community [07:11] Why digital connection often feels empty — and what we can do about it [09:12] Designing invitations people can say “yes” to — both in life and in leadership [11:58] Fundraising is broken. Here's how we fix it without losing integrity [14:48] “Don't treat your supporters like crap.” Amanda on the ethics of political messaging [18:48] How millennials are redefining leadership in the workplace [21:29] Why personality — not brand — is key to breaking through on new media [24:18] What keeps Amanda going when everything feels impossible [26:21] The origin story of Run for Something and what's coming next Notable Quotes:“If work sucks less, people can be better parents, partners, and citizens.” — Amanda Litman [03:20] “Don't treat your supporters like crap. If you've told them the sky is falling for ten years — what now that it's actually falling?” — Amanda Litman [16:05] “I only drink the poison I have the antidote for.” — Amanda Litman [25:06] “Organizations can't really tell a story. A person can.” — Amanda Litman [22:43] “We make it easy to say yes — whether it's dinner or running for office.” — Amanda Litman [09:12]P.S. — Struggling to align your message with your mission? We help social impact leaders like you build trust-building brands through authentic storytelling, thoughtful design, and digital strategy that works. Let's talk about your goals »Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.*** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.
The Blueprint: Unlocking Cosmo: Advanced Listing Optimization Insights for Amazon Sellers Episode Overview In this episode, Danny McMillan and Oana Padurariu dive deep into the intricacies of Amazon's Cosmo system, providing valuable insights into how sellers can effectively optimize their listings. They cover 15 key relationships that drive successful product visibility and performance on Amazon. This episode explores amazon listing optimization strategies, understanding amazon's cosmo system with practical insights for immediate implementation. Key Takeaways Products that provide clear solutions to customer problems score higher in Cosmo optimization and gain better visibility on Amazon. Continuous revision and optimization of listings are essential as market conditions and customer preferences evolve. Chapter Markers Time Chapter Description 00:00 Introduction to Cosmo Danny and Oana introduce the topic of Cosmo, discussing its significance and how it has evolved over the past year. 02:00 Understanding Cosmo's Role Oana explains what Cosmo actually is, defining it as a common-sense knowledge graph and distinguishing it from an algorithm. 06:00 The 15 Relations Framework Danny and Oana go through the 15 parts of the Cosmo framework that can help sellers understand how to optimize their listings effectively. 14:00 Products that Suit Cosmo The hosts discuss what types of products benefit from Cosmo optimization and analyze product categories that perform well. 22:00 Optimization Strategies Strategies for effective product optimization in the context of Cosmo are shared, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer behavior. 31:00 Wrapping Up with Key Takeaways Danny and Oana summarize the main insights from the discussion, reinforcing the need for continuous optimization and understanding of product attributes. Notable Quotes "If you have a good product, make sure that you put in the effort to optimize it." Resources Mentioned Data Dive: A tool used to test outputs and improve product listing optimizations. Subscribe to Seller Sessions YouTube: Seller Sessions Channel Website: Seller Sessions
Building HVAC Science - Building Performance, Science, Health & Comfort
In this engaging episode of the Building HVAC Science Podcast, Eric Kaiser chats with Nikki Krueger, National Sales Manager and building science advocate at Santa Fe (a Thermastor brand), often dubbed the “Queen of Dehumidification.” They explore the science and application of dedicated dehumidification in homes and buildings across various climates—especially in today's increasingly humid and energy-efficient housing stock. Nikki shares insights from her 20+ years in the indoor air quality (IAQ) space, detailing her journey from AprilAire to launching her own consultancy, and ultimately joining Santa Fe. She explains how tighter building envelopes, increased ventilation needs, and changes in HVAC coil design have all contributed to the growing demand for standalone dehumidifiers—especially as homes become more efficient, but less capable of latent load removal. The discussion ranges from dew point awareness and crawlspace strategy to the nuanced interaction between comfort, humidity, and occupant behavior. Nikki emphasizes the importance of diagnostics and whole-house thinking when sizing and applying dehumidifiers. The episode closes with tips on where to find resources (including www.SantaFeProducts.com), and an open invite to meet at training events like the HVACR School Symposium. Notable Quotes: "If we change one thing in the house, it's going to change a series of other things." "Relative humidity is like the horoscope of moisture—it's vague until you understand the temperature context." "Once you live in a home with proper dehumidification, you'll never go back." The Products: www.SantaFeProducts.com The Person: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkikrueger/ The Symposium: https://www.hvacrschool.com/events/7th-annual-hvac-r-training-symposium/ This episode was recorded in July 2025.
“Would you date someone who refuses to buy feminine hygiene products—or has angry eyebrows?”In this episode of The JB and Sandy Show, Sandy and Tricia dive into the oddly specific dealbreakers women over 40 say they absolutely need in a partner. From beard preferences to meme etiquette, this hilarious segment reveals how dating changes when you know exactly what you want—and what you won't tolerate. But first, Sandy shares a jaw-dropping story about Vladimir Putin's travel routine that's equal parts bizarre and brilliant: his security detail reportedly collects his waste to prevent foreign governments from analyzing his health. Gross? Yes. Fascinating? Absolutely. Then, Tricia brings us the “Story We Love” featuring the Band Together Texas benefit concert at the Moody Center, where stars like Miranda Lambert, Matthew McConaughey, and Vince Young helped raise over $8.5 million for flood relief. The debate over who got the biggest crowd reaction—McConaughey or Vince Young—sparks some passionate Longhorn nostalgia. Notable Quotes:“If you spit, I'm out. No spitters allowed.”“You must be willing to buy feminine hygiene products without complaint.”“Putin's team collects his poo. That's next-level privacy.”“JB and I hugged once—and it was because Vince Young won the Rose Bowl.”Call to Action: If you laughed, cringed, or Googled “Putin bathroom protocol,” don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share The JB and Sandy Show with your friends. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @JBSandyATX and text us at 737-301-9600 to join the conversation!
In this episode, Baylor Barbee reminds us that work and life will never get “easy.” As you level up—whether in your career, fitness, or personal growth—challenges grow with you. Coasting may feel comfortable, but it leads to stagnation, loss of purpose, and a slow decline in the very dreams you once chased. Drawing lessons from Picasso's constant reinvention, the Dead Sea's lifeless stillness, and the false victories of the “loser's bracket,” Baylor challenges you to stop hiding behind preparation and start equipping yourself for the next level now. Key Takeaways: Work Never Runs Out: Stop waiting for a mythical “caught up” day—it doesn't exist. Leveling Up Means New Challenges: Each stage requires new skills, not just mastery of old ones. Comfort Kills Growth: Stagnation breeds decay in your goals, relationships, and purpose. Push Past Preparation Mode: “I'm getting ready” is often just a disguise for fear of growth. Surround Yourself with Movers: Being around people striving for their next level fuels your own. Notable Quotes: “If you can coast, it's too easy. And if it's too easy, you're not giving your all.” “So many people are winning in the loser's bracket under the false pretense they're champions.” “The Dead Sea is dead because nothing flows in and nothing flows out—don't let that be your life.”
In this episode of the East Coast Elite series, we sit down with Austin Stefani, CRO at DBT Labs, to discuss his career journey from EMC to his current role. austin shares his fundamental principles for sales leadership, emphasizing the importance of making every individual on the team successful. We learn about his focus on skill acquisition, the value of learning from challenges, and why empathy is crucial for both employees and customers. Austin breaks down his "playbook" for problem identification and how to apply it at various stages of a company's growth, from building a sales process and managing pipeline to scaling international teams.
Jonathan Meagher-Zayas is the founder and chief strategist of Equity Warrior Strategies LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and social justice within the nonprofit and social impact sectors. With over 14 years of experience, Jonathan specializes in capacity building, leadership development, community engagement, and DEI strategy. He is a queer Latinx nonprofit leader, a social work adjunct professor, a certified fundraiser, a certified diversity professional, and a doctoral candidate focused on critical pedagogy in nonprofit leadership.Episode Summary:Join Asheley Blaise as she welcomes Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, a prominent leader in advocating for equity and inclusion in nonprofits. This episode delves into the pervasive issue of ableism in workplaces, particularly for individuals with developmental disabilities, and explores strategies for creating inclusive environments. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of recognizing inherent biases, co-creating solutions, and shifting organizational culture to promote genuine belonging.Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares valuable insights into the common misconceptions that employers and the public have about people with developmental disabilities, including assumptions about competency and the notion that accommodations are costly. He advocates for the power of language and the role it plays in either reinforcing or dismantling stigma. With educational examples from organizations like AHRC Nassau, Jonathan illustrates how effective advocacy and inclusion efforts can transform communities and workplaces. The conversation also highlights the continuous journey of self-improvement and actionable steps that allies can take to combat ableism.Key Takeaways:Cultural Transformation: True inclusion transcends policy changes and is deeply rooted in shifting organizational culture.Co-Creation and Leadership: Involving people with disabilities in decision-making processes is crucial to developing impactful strategies against ableism.Language and Representation: The ways we communicate and represent individuals can either reinforce stigma or foster belonging.Continuous Learning: Addressing ableism requires an ongoing commitment to education and unlearning of societal biases.Notable Quotes:"If employers really want to center people with disabilities, they need to co-create solutions together.""Belonging is a human need…language helps us connect, understand, and create that belonging.""Giving grace is going soft on the person but hard on the problem.""If you are most impacted by ableism in the workplace, you have the most expertise and perspective to share, how to better address it."Resources:Equity Warrior Strategies LLCAHRC Nassau NYS Community of Practice on DEIEncouraging you to dive into this insightful episode, it's clear there's much to learn and reflect upon when it comes to inclusion and equity. Stay tuned for more discussions on DSP Talk as we continue to explore ways to better our communities and workplaces. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Whitney Jones is a trailblazer in the fitness world, best known for winning the prestigious Ms. Olympia title three times—a feat made even more remarkable by her unconventional start at age 34. As the first mother to ever win an Olympia title, Whitney redefines what's possible in competitive bodybuilding. Her journey includes overcoming 18 surgeries, including a broken neck, while building a thriving career as an athlete, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, author, and dedicated mom. Through it all, she's remained focused on empowering others with her mindset of grit, purpose, and possibility.Whitney opens up about the mental and physical resilience it takes to succeed after severe injuries, why competing against yourself is more powerful than seeking validation, and how motherhood became a superpower—not a setback. She also shares how she transitioned from the advertising world to owning a gym, building a brand, and inspiring youth through fitness and self-belief.Key TakeawaysWinning While Broken: Whitney shares how resilience and mindset—not physical perfection—are what separate champions.Motherhood & Muscle: As the first mom to win an Olympia title, Whitney proves motherhood can fuel, not hinder, greatness.From Corporate to Coach: Her leap from ad agency life to gym ownership highlights the power of following passion over comfort.Inspiring the Next Generation: Whitney is committed to empowering youth, helping them break past limitations and rewrite their own stories.The Power of Visualization: Learn how visual learning and inner dialogue have been essential tools in Whitney's evolution as both an athlete and person.Notable Quotes"If you look at everything on paper, I should have never been a pro athlete. I should have never qualified for Olympia.""I didn't compete to impress the judges—I competed to conquer myself.""What sets champions apart is that they've learned how to win even when broken.""At the end of the day, I had to answer to myself. That's what pushed me harder.""Why not be everything you dream to be—without limits?"Connect with Rudy Mawer:LinkedInInstagramFacebookTwitter
In this episode of the Grandparenthood podcast, Ben and Ian are joined by seasoned minister Simon Manchester. They explore Simon’s rich ministry journey—from London to North Sydney—and his insights on preaching, pastoral work, and the spiritual role of grandparents. Together, they offer thoughtful reflections on how faith, grace, and wisdom can empower older generations to deeply influence their families and churches. You can hear more of Simon Manchester and other special guests at the Grandparenthood Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Key Takeaways: The role of a grandparent is sacred and influential, providing spiritual guidance and support to the younger generations. Both guests highlight the importance of balancing ministry roles with personal and family life. Leveraging time with grandchildren is key—using everyday moments to impart values and wisdom. Notable Quotes: "If you want to speak well from the Word, you need to listen well to the Word" — Simon "You learn to navigate that kind of behavior, which is different from what you might have expected." — Simon "Our praying is seen as a privilege and not a chore." — Simon "Grace is having its impact on you as you do move closer to that last moment in time." — Ian Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the East Coast Elite series, we sit down with Brian Trowbridge, VP of Sales at FireHydrant, to explore the brutal truths of startup life. From making high-stakes decisions with limited runway to navigating board dynamics and founder alignment, Brian unpacks what it really takes to succeed in an early-stage company. We dive deep into how he evaluated FireHydrant before joining, what he looks for in founders and boards, and how sales leaders should think about burn rate, valuations, and growth expectations. If you're in sales and considering a startup role, this episode is a must-watch.
About the Guest(s): Dr. Chad Woolner is a seasoned expert in functional medicine. With years of experience, he has been instrumental in helping practitioners transcend the traditional brick-and-mortar model, guiding them towards successful virtual practices. Dr. Woolner is known for his strategic approach to simplifying functional medicine, making it accessible and effective without overwhelming technical demands. Dr. Andrew Wells is a renowned functional medicine practitioner dedicated to transforming healthcare practices. He partners with Dr. Woolner in the Simplified Functional Medicine podcast series, offering insights into building thriving virtual practices. Dr. Wells's expertise lies in crafting compelling offers and scaling marketing strategies that engage and convert audiences effectively. Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Simplified Functional Medicine podcast, Dr. Chad Woolner and Dr. Andrew Wells reveal the tangible blueprint for establishing a successful virtual practice. Building off their previous discussion where they debunked myths about virtual practices, this session dives deep into the tactical side, offering a four-step strategy that has liberated many from the constraints of traditional practices. This episode is particularly beneficial for practitioners looking to transition into the virtual healthcare space without getting bogged down by technology overload or certifications. The discussion begins by emphasizing the importance of leveraging existing audiences when transitioning to a virtual practice. Drs. Woolner and Wells provide expert strategies for creating a seamless integration between in-person and virtual consultations. They detail a streamlined process involving audience traffic, patient education, compelling offer crafting, and long-term marketing strategies. These elements form the backbone of a thriving virtual practice that can operate profitably and sustainably. Listeners will gain insights into the nuances of these steps and will be presented with actionable advice to make the leap into virtual healthcare delivery confidently. Key Takeaways: Transforming a brick-and-mortar practice into a virtual practice involves a strategic four-step approach: increasing audience traffic, patient education and enrollment, crafting irresistible offers, and establishing a solid marketing platform. Leveraging existing audiences is crucial; practitioners should tap into their current client base instead of trying to build one from scratch. AI developments have made conventional sales tactics obsolete; practitioners need to focus on selling comprehensive solutions rather than individual services like lab tests or supplements. Creating a unique branded solution can provide a competitive edge in the increasingly crowded field of virtual functional medicine. Building a podcast or regular content platform is essential for scaling marketing efforts and establishing authority in the virtual healthcare space. Notable Quotes: "If you build it, then they have to find you, and how do you separate yourself from other practitioners?" "Patients don't quit protocols easily, but they don't quit relationships easily." "If you're selling just labs, supplements, or diet programs, AI can do that better and faster." "We build the bike for you. It rides great, and it's ready for you to start helping patients now." "Start with a podcast. Leverage it to create a marketing platform for long-term sustainability." Resources: Dr. Chad Woolner's Simplified Functional Medicine Dr. Andrew Wells's insights on establishing virtual practices Alex Hormozi's book, "$100M Offers" AI tools like ChatGPT for content creation and management Video and content platforms such as VEED IO, Submagic, and Descript for content repurposing This episode contains strategic insights for anyone looking to build or enhance a virtual practice in the healthcare sector. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn directly from seasoned experts. Listen to the full discussion for an in-depth understanding and stay tuned for more episodes packed with actionable advice.
Interviews With The Hunting Masters - Big game Hunting podcast
n this episode of Days in the Wild, I sit down with backcountry hunter and elite outdoor photographer Steven Drake to unpack his approach to gear, preparation, and the mental edge needed to thrive deep in the wilderness. We dive into his minimalist yet functional backcountry pack system, how he balances photography and hunting in extreme terrain, and the hard-earned lessons that shape his mountain mindset. Whether you're dialing in your gear list or just looking for inspiration from someone who truly lives the wild, this episode is loaded with insight, authenticity, and practical takeaways.
What can people achieve together? This episode explores the power of collective intelligence and collaboration. Richard Jacobs shares insights on team building and leadership, highlighting the importance of a growth mindset to achieve goals. Discover how to channel collective intelligence to solve problems.What if your next team meeting could unlock 5,000 years of experience?That's not a metaphor. It's collective intelligence, and Richard Jacobs shows you how to harness it.In this powerful, practical, and real-world conversation, Richard Jacobs, performance coach, author, and expert in purpose-led leadership - shares how to shift the way your business thinks, meets, and grows.From immersive theatre challenges and working with Google to helping organisations rewire culture, Richard explains how to:Turn meetings into momentumTap into the combined wisdom of your teamShift from performance to Opus—your life's workLead with purpose that energises and connectsFacilitate collaboration instead of forcing controlWhether you're leading a business, growing a team, or asking “What am I really here to do?”—this episode will challenge and inspire you.
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Join host Baylor Barbee in this engaging episode of Shark Theory, where he delves into the importance of authentic leadership and continuous improvement. Baylor shares a recent experience with Pacesetter Homes that highlights effective leadership practices, focusing on transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of excellence. Take a journey as he discusses the impact of leaders who embrace their roles with authenticity and humility. In this episode, Baylor Barbee explores the significance of balancing acknowledgment of success with a commitment to addressing areas for improvement. He discusses his admiration for leaders who maintain transparency and accountability, as exemplified by Blake from Pacesetter Homes. By avoiding the pitfalls of overly optimistic assessments, leaders can foster trust within their teams. This candid approach not only strengthens leadership but also motivates teams to continuously seek new heights of success. Key themes include authentic leadership, continuous improvement, and the power of feedback. Baylor also emphasizes the importance of staying open to feedback from team members. He underscores how seeking and embracing input from others can reveal blind spots and spur growth. Through his own experiences, such as lessons learned from a former football coach, Baylor illustrates the difference between leaders who focus solely on positive metrics and those who genuinely seek to advance. By fostering an environment of transparency and continuous feedback, leaders can cultivate teams that are engaged, motivated, and ready to achieve their full potential. Key Takeaways: Effective leadership requires a balance between celebrating success and identifying areas for improvement. Authenticity and transparency in leadership build trust and inspire teams. Greatness involves constantly seeking new levels of growth and improvement. Soliciting and acting on feedback helps leaders identify blind spots and enhance team performance. Leaders should focus on creating environments where teams are motivated to strive for excellence. Notable Quotes: "If you want to be an effective leader, if you want to be a trusted leader, you have to embrace that mentality." – Baylor Barbee "Greatness always looks for another level." – Baylor Barbee "The people that always act like everything's all perfect... I don't ever want to be that person." – Baylor Barbee "Transparency in getting that feedback goes a long way to developing trust." – Baylor Barbee "When a team that wants to be there is a team that wins." – Baylor Barbee
Key Topics Covered:The Spark Behind Origin USAPete talks about how he saw an opportunity—and responsibility—to bring manufacturing back to America, starting with jiu-jitsu gis.Manufacturing in MaineThe commitment to American supply chains and reviving long-lost skills in the state of Maine.Resilience & RiskWhy Pete bet everything he had—literally—to get his business off the ground and why he never looked back.Partnership with Jocko WillinkHow teaming up with the Navy SEAL turned podcaster and author helped scale Origin's mission and visibility.What "Made in America" Really MeansThe difference between a marketing label and a mission-driven movement.Advice for Makers & EntrepreneursPete shares powerful insight on grit, self-belief, and doing hard things—even when no one else believes in you.Notable Quotes:“If you're not willing to put it all on the line, then you're not building something that's going to last.”“We don't just manufacture here. We grow our own cotton. We spin our own yarn. We dye, cut, and sew—all in America.”“You have to live the hard days to earn the good ones.” If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.
InTouch with Terri is brought to you by Podium: Podium is a platform providing AI-powered communication solutions for lead conversion and patient retention. In Touch with Terri listeners get their first month of Podium free CLICK HERE. Be sure to tune into the full conversation to uncover detailed insights into transforming your aesthetic practice by leveraging patient retention strategies. Subscribe for more episodes and stay informed about the latest developments and strategies in the industry Get InTouch with Terri! Terri Ross Website: Click Here Terri Ross Patreon: Business and Sales Mentorship 4S Summit Info: For more details, look up 4S Summit to understand its role in providing strategic business consulting in the aesthetics industry https://4ssummit.com/ Terri Ross is a renowned expert in the aesthetic industry, specializing in sales training, strategic growth consulting, and business transformation. As an accomplished author and international speaker, Terri has dedicated over two decades to elevating businesses in the aesthetic field with a ground-up approach focused on sustainability, profitability, and scalability. Her experience is rooted in working with Fortune 500 companies like Medicis and Zeltique, where she developed a deep understanding of market dynamics and strategic sales methodologies. About the Guest: Thomas Terranova is the CEO of Quad A, a globally recognized accreditation body known for its dedication to surgical safety. He is an attorney by training, specializing in international mergers and acquisitions, with previous experience advising multinational corporations using data analytics. At Quad A, Thomas steers the organization's strategic direction, ensuring the adherence to quality standards across surgical and non-surgical medical aesthetic practices. Under his leadership, Quad A is pioneering a new accreditation initiative for non-surgical medical aesthetics to enhance patient safety and facility standards worldwide. Quad A Website: quada.org Episode Summary: Welcome to this engaging episode of "In Touch with Terri," where we explore the dynamic world of accreditation in the booming aesthetics industry. Host Terri Ross converses with Thomas Terranova, CEO of Quad A, about an exciting and crucial initiative to introduce a global accreditation framework for non-surgical medical aesthetic practices, such as med spas. As the industry surges ahead with rapid growth, this initiative aims to bridge the current regulatory gap, providing a structured and formal oversight mechanism that has long been absent in non-surgical environments. In this revealing discussion, Terri and Thomas delve into the pressing safety gaps in the medical aesthetics sector. With an understanding that current growth has outpaced both regulations and common best practices, Thomas outlines the steps Quad A is taking to standardize safety, excellence, and consistency. The pair highlight the potential impacts of this initiative on both practitioners—ensuring legitimate, safe operations—and patients who will gain increased confidence in the services they receive. Attentive listeners will learn about the core pillars of this new accreditation framework, the challenges faced during its development, and its anticipated positive repercussions on the global stage. Key Takeaways: The medical aesthetics industry is experiencing rapid growth but lacks adequate regulation, particularly in non-surgical environments such as med spas. Quad A, under the leadership of Thomas Terranova, is leading a global initiative to develop an accreditation framework for non-surgical medical aesthetic practices. The accreditation aims to ensure patient safety, enhance facility standards, and instill greater confidence in aesthetic treatments. The initiative includes comprehensive documentation, rigorous staff training, and the adoption of standard operating procedures to minimize risks. Educating patients and making safety considerations front-and-center are key strategies for improving consumer trust and industry standards. Notable Quotes: "If you're a well-intentioned practitioner, whatever we're talking about are nothing to be afraid of. The only people that should be afraid are the people who don't want to do things right." "Product is a big one. And again, with supply chain, the way it is... that's a huge concern." "It's a choice to do things the right way. It's a choice to do it in a way that's safe." "We're bringing this back to medicine. We're talking about making sure the products are valid, properly maintained, and that the staff is well-trained."
Stephen Scoggins is a serial entrepreneur, author, coach, and host of the Build podcast. Having once started his business while sleeping in his car, Stephen built his construction company from the ground up and successfully exited in late 2023, selling at just under nine figures. Now, he invests in other entrepreneurs, mentors high-performing founders, and speaks across stages nationwide, sharing practical wisdom on scaling, exits, and personal transformation. On this episode we talk about: How Stephen went from homelessness to building and selling a near nine-figure company The lessons learned from exiting a business: why you should always build as if you plan to sell—even if you never do What buyers really want: systems, predictable cash flow, culture, and efficient operations The importance of restructuring, optimizing, and “going back through with a fine-tooth comb” before an exit Stephen's new focus on family office investing, real estate, equity stakes, and founder mentorship Why a year-long entrepreneur “test period” is Stephen's preferred way to find investible founders The five hidden enemies of entrepreneurs—impatience, arrogance, ignorance, fear, and insecurity—and how conquering them changes the game How to discern between arrogance and confidence, and how confidence comes from consistency, not credentials Tips on hiring for executive roles, including how to vet candidates even if they're smarter or more credentialed than you The value of coaching and mentorship at every stage—even after an exit Practical steps for employees and early-stage entrepreneurs to identify their superpowers, solve real problems, and launch a business with little capital Top 3 Takeaways Build to Sell, Even If You Don't: Always design your business with predictable systems, clear financials, and a scalable team—whether or not you ever plan to exit. Self-Awareness is the Real Secret: The most dangerous enemies in business are internal—impatience, fear, arrogance, ignorance, and insecurity. Master yourself to master your business. Mentorship Multiplies Success and Saves Pain: Investing in coaches and mentors is the cheapest and most powerful way to accelerate growth and avoid costly mistakes. Notable Quotes “If you'll focus on building as if you're going to sell, you'll end up with the kind of company buyers—and you—actually want.” “Arrogance is self-seeking. Humble confidence comes from serving others and showing up with consistency.” “Most of my painful lessons, including losing over a million dollars to embezzlement, could have been avoided by listening to my mentors sooner.” Connect with Stephen Scoggins: Website: stephenscoggins.com
Kirsten Graham is a virtual assistant (VA) and outsourcing expert who helps business owners reclaim their time, boost productivity, and scale smart—primarily through leveraging overseas talent. With a background in real estate, mortgages, and entrepreneurship, Kirsten is passionate about teaching entrepreneurs and professionals how to delegate low-value tasks, streamline their operations, and focus on high-impact activities. As co-founder of Six Figure Business Coaching, she helps her clients move from invisibility to visibility through video marketing, podcast guesting, and skilled virtual support. On this episode we talk about: Kirsten's first dollar earned through babysitting and her early journey into entrepreneurship Moving from real estate and mortgage to running a business that connects clients with remote talent worldwide Why hiring VAs for $6–$8 an hour can transform a business's profitability and owner's freedom The importance of hiring for very specific tasks rather than seeking a “unicorn” VA who does everything How treating remote team members with respect, paid time off, and long-term opportunities leads to retention and success The step-by-step model her company uses: interviewing, hiring, vetting, and training VAs for real estate, coaches, and service businesses Business models in the VA/outsource space: agency-style vs. direct-hire, margin differences, scalability, and how to choose a right-fit path The power of niching down (e.g., offering HighLevel-trained VAs or bookkeeping-specific VAs) and how to grow from a narrow offer Integrating AI: how today's VAs must be AI-fluent and how business owners can multiply efficiency by combining VAs and automation Why “boring” service businesses—like bookkeeping, HVAC, plumbing—are among the most reliable, profitable, and least likely to be automated by AI Buying, not just starting, a business: opportunities in acquiring already-running companies and upgrading them through outsourcing and systems Top 3 Takeaways Outsource for Freedom and Profit: Move all $6–$8/hour tasks off your plate; focus on what grows your business, not what just keeps it running. Niche, Train, and Systematize: Specialize your offer (e.g., marketing VAs, bookkeeping VAs, software-specific VAs) and use robust SOPs and ongoing training for client satisfaction and scale. Combine Talent, AI, and Acquisition: The biggest wins come from integrating skilled remote talent with AI-powered automations—whether you're starting from scratch or buying a business to modernize. Notable Quotes “If you're doing a $6 an hour task, you're doing it wrong. You should have someone else doing those tasks for you.” “It's easier to hire someone and keep them for years than to constantly replace people. Treat your VAs well—they're your team.” “Boring, unsexy businesses—like HVAC, bookkeeping, auto repair—are not going to be replaced by AI anytime soon, but they're always going to be profitable and needed.” Connect with Kirsten Graham: Website: sixfigurebusinesscoaching.com
In this high-impact episode of Shark Theory, Baylor Barbee explores what happens when you raise your standards—not just to meet expectations, but to exceed them entirely. After helping a client recover from a bad situation caused by another party, Baylor makes a bold decision to wipe everything clean and start over—not because he had to, but because his standard demanded it. Through the lens of Samurai warriors, Steve Jobs, and his own relentless mindset, Baylor delivers a powerful message: your actions are your legacy. The quality of your work defines you, even when no one else is watching—because you'realways watching. Key Takeaways: Set Standards Beyond Expectations: Don't just aim to meet what people want—aim to exceed it with your own personal code. Operate Like a Samurai: If your soul were in your sword—your actions—how sharp would it be? Maintain your craft like your legacy depends on it… because it does. Be Willing to Start Over for Better: Sometimes it's better to rebuild from scratch than to patch someone else's broken foundation. Someone's Always Watching—Especially You: We perform better when we know we're being watched. And the mirror is always watching. Quality Work Never Goes Out of Style: Your excellence becomes your brand, your differentiator, and your opportunity magnet. Notable Quotes: “If your soul was in your sword, you'd make sure it was flawless. Your soul now is in your actions.” “Is your standard for yourself higher than what anyone else expects of you?” “There's never a situation where someone's not watching—because you're always watching.” “You're not fooling anyone by cutting corners. You're just training yourself to settle.” “Quality work never goes out of style.”
In this episode of Hunters & Unicorns, East Coast Elite, we sit down with Brian McCarthy, President of Global Revenue and Field Operations at Rubrik. With a remarkable track record scaling high-performing teams and navigating through IPOs, Brian shares the foundational principles that shaped his leadership, putting people first, leading with love, and building structures that drive consistent performance. We explore how Brian transitioned from star seller to visionary leader, how he earned unshakeable team loyalty, and why systems like WANs can revolutionize your sales coaching. If you're serious about leading at scale with integrity, this is a must-watch.
Amanda Northcutt is a six-time executive with 22 years of experience in consulting, startups, and marketing strategy. After leaving a high-paying Silicon Valley role, Amanda saw a gap: creators and subject matter experts with massive potential, but lacking the CEO-level operational expertise needed to scale. As co-founder and CEO of Level Up Creators and Level Up Creator School, Amanda now helps coaches and consultants build boutique, high-impact businesses that generate recurring revenue and generational wealth. On this episode we talk about: Amanda's journey from Silicon Valley to creator consulting—and why she left the tech world on her own terms The mission of Level Up Creators: helping experts and executives turn decades of business experience into thriving consulting and coaching firms Why most creators and consultants struggle with operations, productization, and scaling—and how Amanda's team bridges that gap The ideal client profile: business experts (typically 40–60 years old) seeking legacy, impact, and a business they love for the next decade How to productize services, escape the “time-for-money” trap, and build a business that fits your life goals The importance of targeting painful, pervasive, urgent, and expensive problems for a specific audience How to stand out in a saturated market by developing a proprietary methodology and building deep trust with your audience Why high-ticket, high-touch, low-volume offers are the fastest path to impact and income for most experts The power of partner marketing, niche podcast guesting, and relationship-based lead generation How to structure partnerships and collaborations for maximum leverage and mutual benefit The mindset shift required to start over in a new field and build credibility from scratch Top 3 Takeaways Productize and Specialize: Focus on solving urgent, expensive problems for a specific audience with a clear, proprietary methodology—don't try to be everything to everyone. Go High-Ticket First: Start with high-touch, high-value offers before expanding into lower-ticket products or communities; this maximizes your impact and income with fewer clients. Leverage Partnerships and Niche Media: Build relationships with peers, pursue partner marketing, and guest on niche podcasts to reach your ideal clients—don't chase only the biggest platforms. Notable Quotes “If you're selling vitamins instead of Vicodin, you are not going to make sales—especially in a tough economy.” “You should be spending 80% of your time on only the highest-leverage activities in your business.” “The most successful people are willing to humble themselves and start over in a new field—they don't care about losing status, they just want to do the work.” Connect with Amanda Northcutt: Website: welevelupcreators.com
In this captivating episode of Shark Theory, host Baylor Barbee shares a delightful anecdote from his recent visit to Ham Orchard in Terrell, Texas—a renowned peach orchard famous for its vast variety and unique peach-inspired products. Using this experience as a metaphor, Baylor delves into the importance of mastering a core competency before expanding into various derivatives, drawing parallels with his journey in public speaking. The episode emphasizes how businesses and individuals can thrive by focusing on their strengths and fostering a peaceful and welcoming environment. Ham Orchard, a family-operated business since 1979, exemplifies the power of specialization and community atmosphere. Throughout the episode, Baylor details his surprise and admiration for the orchard's extensive selection of peach products, demonstrating how honing one core skill can lead to success in multiple areas. The discussion is rich with insights on personal growth, illustrating the significance of finding peace and projecting positive energy in personal and professional interactions. This theme serves as a central pillar for the episode, encouraging listeners to cultivate a sense of calm to enhance their magnetism and appeal. Key Takeaways: Mastering one core skill allows you to expand successfully into related areas. Creating a peaceful environment can attract and retain people both personally and professionally. Your presence and energy can have a significant impact on your success. Businesses that remain true to their values, like Ham Orchard's practice of closing on Sundays, can foster a positive community atmosphere. Seasons change in life and business; patience and persistence are key. Notable Quotes: "If you're great at something, you can always expand on it." "Success and growth come with mastering one element." "Being a Peace creator is arguably the most magnetic skill that you can have." "If you're the person that brings peace to a situation, people will want to be around you." "There's always seasons in life and if you're in a down season right now, just realize your season is coming."
Jacob Caris is an ex-corporate finance professional turned online entrepreneur who has generated over $7 million in sales through courses, coaching, consulting, and affiliate marketing—without relying on sales calls or big sales teams. After leaving Wall Street, Jacob built a business that prioritizes time freedom, lean operations, and high profit margins. As the founder of Caris Digital and Caris Investments, he's become a leading voice in helping coaches, consultants, and creators build lifestyle businesses that fund true freedom. On this episode we talk about: Jacob's journey from corporate finance and consulting to building a multi-seven-figure online business Making his first dollar online selling social signals and flipping websites before launching his personal brand The importance of proof-of-concept—how earning your first dollar online can be the catalyst for everything that follows Transitioning from affiliate marketing to launching high-ticket offers and group coaching programs The evolution from sales-driven to marketing-driven businesses, and why Jacob prefers content and trust over endless sales calls How to design a business around your ideal lifestyle and avoid the trap of chasing empty revenue milestones Jacob's “Five Page Google Doc System” for selling high-ticket offers without sales calls or sales reps Why qualitative factors—like peace of mind and time with family—matter as much as profit in business design The importance of interrogating your “why” and building a business that supports your real goals, not just what the internet says you should want Top 3 Takeaways Proof of Concept is Everything: Making your first dollar online—no matter how small—proves what's possible and gives you the confidence to keep building. Marketing-Driven > Sales-Driven: With the right content, audience, and offer, you can sell high-ticket products without endless sales calls or big teams—freeing up your time and boosting margins. Design Your Business for Your Life: Don't blindly chase revenue milestones. Get clear on your ideal day, week, and lifestyle, then build a business that supports those goals. Notable Quotes “If you can solve one very clear and real pain point people are sitting with right now, and give them a sexy, slightly different approach, you only need one offer to change your life forever.” “You run a marketing-driven business or a sales-driven business. Neither is wrong, but I prefer to build a business where content and trust do the heavy lifting.” “Don't let sunk cost fallacy keep you climbing the wrong mountain. Interrogate your ‘why' and make sure you're building the life and business you actually want.” Connect with Jacob Caris: Website: jacobcaris.com
John continues his conversation with Peter Awad. In Part 1, Peter shared his story of growing up in a grocery store and his transition from running multiple businesses to becoming a coach. In this episode, Peter discusses building real connections with his coaching clients, why he started White Stone Coaching, why he works with Christian businessmen, and explains the 70/30 framework to help people work more in their Zone of Genius. Listen to this episode to learn more: [00:00] - Intro [01:07] - How Peter helps his clients [05:35] - Why Peter started his coaching company, White Stone [08:28] - You only need to be one step ahead to be a coach [10:33] - Impact of Peter's faith on his business [14:14] - The analogy of life purpose to being a puzzle piece [16:04] - Traits of a great leader [18:27] - Peter's definition of success [19:34] - The 70/30 concept in coaching [22:31] - Peter's top daily habit [23:55] - Peter's best advice [25:58] - Question to ask when things aren't going well [26:51] - What Peter wants his legacy to be [29:29] - How Peter invests in his personal growth [32:03] - Creating meaningful memories with family [35:50] - Best way to connect with Peter [38:03] - Book recommendations [42:43] - Closing remarks NOTABLE QUOTES: “If you're a coach, you only need to be one step ahead of the person you're coaching. You can be further ahead, but you only have to be one step ahead.” “You can't be a disciple maker if you're not a disciple first.” “You can't take people higher up in the mountain than you've been.” “Great leaders come in with nothing to hide, nothing to prove, nothing to lose.” “You only need to be one step ahead of the person you're coaching.” “Sometimes all it takes is a small shift in perspective to open up a whole new world.” “Athletes have coaches, but everyone else is just told to figure it out.” “We're all a puzzle piece in this giant puzzle … When we discover our identity and we're living in our purpose, then we are linking arms, yoked with the other pieces around us.” “If we want to go fast, we've got to go together.” “You think about something you buy and you're really excited about, and it almost immediately loses value. The longer you have it, the more it degrades. Soon it's just junk, and you throw it away. Experiences are like wine — they get sweeter.” “We prioritize meetings with people we don't know or don't even like, but we leave it up to chance to hang out with the people that matter to us most. What are we doing?” BOOKS MENTIONED: 48 Days to the Work You Love: Preparing for the New Normal by Dan Miller (https://a.co/d/g6ZPdo4) Living Fearless - Exchanging the Lies of the World for the Liberating Truth of God by Jamie Winship (https://a.co/d/5OeeW2B) 10x Is Easier Than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan (https://a.co/d/cshTgD6) The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success by Dr. Benjamin Hardy & Dan Sullivan (https://a.co/d/cBTQdjU) The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer (https://a.co/d/6MzZufd) USEFUL RESOURCES: https://whitestonecoach.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterjawad/ https://www.instagram.com/thepeterawad/ https://www.facebook.com/thepeterawad https://x.com/peterawad CONNECT WITH JOHN Website - https://iamjohnhulen.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/johnhulen Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/johnhulen X - https://x.com/johnhulen LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhulen YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLX_NchE8lisC4NL2GciIWA EPISODE CREDITS Intro and Outro music provided by Jeff Scheetz - https://jeffscheetz.com/
In this unique episode of Shark Theory, host Baylor Barbee continues from where he left off in the previous session, diving deeper into the theme of seizing 'Shark Theory' moments in daily life. Baylor unpacks his creative process, revealing how he derives themes for his podcasts from everyday experiences and offers a step-by-step guide on how listeners can do the same to enhance their personal growth journey. By understanding the importance of having a clear, central thesis in life pursuits, Baylor shows how we can transform our daily reflections into powerful tools for self-enhancement. The episode also emphasizes the importance of having 'side quests'—auxiliary goals that support and enhance one's primary objectives. Baylor describes how these supporting objectives can provide structure and depth to our main goals, much like accent stones in a diamond ring. He illustrates this concept using relatable analogies and encourages listeners to seek out additional skills and knowledge that could bolster their main ambitions. Throughout the episode, Baylor reinforces the idea of being intentional with one's life choices, ensuring they align with broader aspirations and values. Key Takeaways: Identify a central theme or thesis to anchor your personal growth efforts and life pursuits. Recognize and engage in 'side quests' or auxiliary goals that enrich and support your main objectives. Learn to differentiate between goals and identify those that may not fit into your current life puzzle. Apply past experiences and external learnings to inform and strengthen your current goals. Understand that you hold more experience and wisdom than you might realize by drawing parallels across different areas of your life. Notable Quotes: "If you just go where life's taking you, it's always going to take you downhill, so it's important that you know what that finite point is." "Find that central figure… it sets the tone for how you go about… learning in your own life." "Have those auxiliary things that help your main point… they ultimately give structure." "Every puzzle piece fits the right puzzle, but not every puzzle piece fits in every single puzzle." "You realize you have a lot more experience, a lot more wisdom, and a lot more knowledge than you think you do."
In this episode of "Shark Theory," host Baylor Barbee delves into the art of finding learning opportunities in everyday life. The conversation revolves around the importance of being present and aware to accelerate growth across personal and professional domains. Baylor starts by discussing a listener's inquiry on how he conceptualizes the points for his podcasts, setting the stage for both an engaging and introspective dialogue on self-improvement and mindfulness. Baylor emphasizes the significance of altering daily routines to gain new perspectives. Using his personal experiences from running and training for fall races, he illustrates how changing one's mode of "transportation" or approach can lead to a deeper appreciation and awareness of life's nuances. The discussion is enriched with insights on how new experiences create mental bookmarks, making days more memorable and life more fulfilling. He encourages listeners to avoid complacency by integrating variety into their lives. Furthermore, Baylor reflects on the necessity of starting early when pursuing goals. He draws parallels between his running schedule and life ambitions, highlighting the advantages of acting without waiting for the perfect conditions. Additionally, he underscores the importance of planning breaks to prevent burnout, advocating for a balanced approach to work and rest. This episode serves as a reminder to embrace change, act promptly, and strategically plan downtime to maintain peak productivity. Key Takeaways: Present Awareness: Embracing presence in life allows for substantial personal and professional growth. Change Your Routine: Small changes in daily activities can create memorable experiences and provide new insights. Start Early: Initiate actions towards your goals promptly to allow time for adjustments and progress. Plan Breaks: Intentional breaks prevent burnout and maintain optimal performance levels. Perspectives from Exercise: Using different approaches, like running versus driving, can reveal unseen aspects of one's environment. Notable Quotes: "If you're present in your own life, there's so much you can learn, and that applies across different buckets of your life." "Change up your process a little bit, how you do things." "Quit waiting for everything to be perfect. Quit waiting until this right circumstance presents itself." "The best people I know plan their rest. They plan their breaks, they plan their vacation." "You need to have different modes in life in order to fully appreciate what it is."
Ashley Tison is a practicing attorney, experienced entrepreneur, and the co-founder of OZPros.com, a leading advisory firm specializing in Opportunity Zones. With a career spanning law, real estate, and business development, Ashley has built a reputation for demystifying complex tax incentives and helping investors maximize their returns. His unique background—combining big-firm legal expertise, entrepreneurial hustle, and a passion for empowering Main Street Americans—makes him a go-to expert for anyone looking to leverage Opportunity Zones for wealth creation. On this episode we talk about: – Ashley's entrepreneurial journey, from mowing lawns at age eight to founding multiple businesses – The basics of Opportunity Zones—what they are, how they work, and why they're a powerful tool for deferring and eliminating capital gains taxes – How Ashley built OZPros.com into a leading resource for Opportunity Zone investors and entrepreneurs – The importance of focus, living below your means, and building streams of residual income – Creative paths to residual income, including real estate, intellectual property, and even homesteading – Lessons learned from business failures, risk management, and the importance of proper deal capitalization – Building community, masterminds, and teaching others to create wealth through unique opportunities Top 3 Takeaways 1. Niche Down and Focus: Success comes from narrowing your focus and becoming an expert in a specific area—Ashley's deep dive into Opportunity Zones is a prime example. 2. Build Residual Income: True financial freedom is achieved by creating streams of residual income and resisting the urge to increase your standard of living until your passive income grows. 3. Lifelong Learning: Continuous education—through books, audiobooks, and masterminds—is essential for staying ahead and identifying new opportunities. Notable Quotes “If you don't have a plan for your money, the world has a plan for your money—and it's coming for you.” “The key is: let's get you residual income off of real estate, off of intellectual property, something that provides residual income—and don't grow your standard of living until you increase that.” “There are so many opportunities out there—sometimes it's just about getting out of your typical milieu and around people who have them.” Connect with Ashley Tison: Website: ozpros.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Scott Yamamura is a communication and design expert with over 25 years of experience, a Fortune 15 background, and numerous industry awards. As a certified financial coach and author of Financial Epiphany, Scott leverages his creative expertise to cut through financial jargon and help everyday people gain practical control over their money. Based near Seattle, Scott is passionate about making personal finance accessible and empowering others to take charge of their financial futures. On this episode we talk about: – Scott's journey from newspaper routes and teaching skateboard lessons to becoming a financial coach and author – Why most people find money intimidating and how Scott overcame his own financial fears – The “dartboard” approach to aligning your career with your passions – The Five C's of Financial Debt: Card, Car, College, Condo, and Cake—and how to avoid their traps – The importance of having a plan for your money before the world makes one for you – How compounding interest works for (or against) you, and why early investing is critical – Simple, actionable rules for building wealth and achieving financial wellness Top 3 Takeaways 1. Start with Defense: If you don't have a plan for your money, the world does—and it's not in your favor. Avoid the common debt traps and play strong financial defense. 2. Harness Compounding Early: Investing early in your career gives you the “power of 16”—money invested at age 22 can multiply 16 times by retirement, but that power halves every decade you wait. 3. Gamify Your Finances: Treat your financial journey like a game—learn the rules, avoid the traps, and celebrate small wins to build lasting wealth and peace of mind. Notable Quotes “If you don't have a plan for your money, the world has a plan for your money—and it's coming for you.” “Instant gratification lasts a day, but financial wellness is gratifying every day.” “Money is overwhelming for most people, but if you just know a few simple rules, you can take confident action and watch your money grow.” Connect with Scott Yamamura: financialepiphany.com
Mike McCarthy joins Travis for an insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, real estate, and the power of masterminds. Mike is a husband, father, and serial entrepreneur with over two decades at Keller Williams, where he has helped build the company into the world's number one real estate brand. As the regional operating partner for Greater Pennsylvania, Mike leads over 9,000 agents across 50+ locations, closing more than $23 billion in sales in 2024. He's also the co-founder of GoBundance, a community for high-performing entrepreneurs, and coauthor of Tribe of Millionaires and The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families. Mike is passionate about helping entrepreneurial families thrive, focusing on collaboration, shared values, and leaving a lasting legacy. On this episode we talk about: Mike's entrepreneurial journey, from selling candy at school to leading a real estate empire The evolution and challenges of masterminds and events, including the launch and growth of GoBundance and FamBundance The current state of the real estate industry, including commission changes and agent resilience The importance of legacy, family values, and creating meaningful family culture Balancing business growth with family life and the realities of “work-life balance” Healthy masculinity, leadership, and building supportive communities for entrepreneurs Top 3 Takeaways Leverage and Leadership: Building successful businesses and communities requires leveraging the right people and empowering great leaders, which creates time freedom and scalability. Legacy Over Transactions: Focus on building a legacy through family culture, shared values, and intentional moments, rather than just chasing financial success. Community and Connection: Entrepreneurial loneliness is real, but joining or creating mastermind groups like GoBundance can provide accountability, support, and a sense of belonging among like-minded high achievers. Notable Quotes “If you're really going to own a business, you need to understand the power of leverage.” “Don't trade millions for moments—you have to decide how important your business is compared to being there for the moments that matter most.” “You've got to find the same kind of crazy. We're like a pack of lone wolves—scrappy entrepreneurs who just kept putting one foot in front of the other.” Connect with Mike McCarthy: Website: gomikemccarthy.com
On this episode of the Travis Makes Money podcast, Travis welcomes Ann Carden, a top business growth expert, marketing and sales strategist, and the founder and CEO of A. Carden Inc. With over 41 years of experience and a track record of building and selling seven businesses, Ann is renowned for her ability to help coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs attract high-end clients and scale their businesses. Her “Expert In You” method and reputation for delivering high-touch, customized strategies have made her a sought-after mentor for those looking to multiply their income and impact. On this episode we talk about: Ann's journey from selling craft classes as a child to building an international craft business before the internet era The importance of merging passion with viable business opportunities How to turn your expertise into a premium coaching or consulting business Strategies for building authority, networking, and leveraging partnerships The power of innovation, bootstrapping, and selling before you build Top 3 Takeaways Merge your passion with a proven business model—success comes from doing what you love, but only if there's real market demand. Package and sell your expertise: The fastest path to more income is often leveraging what you already know and are great at. Relationships matter—what you know gets you started, but who you know takes you to the next level. Notable Quotes “If you can merge those two worlds—your passion and a viable business—you've got gold.” “Have people vote with their wallets, not their words.” “Start with what you're already great at and package, market, and sell that to get started.” Connect with Ann Carden: LinkedIn: Ann Carden's LinkedIn Website: annlcarden.com
Julia Menez is a travel hacking expert, educator, and founder of GeoBreeze Travel. With a background as an actuary, Julia brings a unique analytical approach to maximizing credit card points and airline miles for luxury travel. She's dedicated her career to teaching entrepreneurs and high-income professionals how to leverage everyday expenses for free flights, hotel stays, and elite perks. Julia's practical, no-nonsense style and deep industry knowledge make her a standout in the world of points and miles. On this episode we talk about: Julia's journey from actuary to full-time travel hacking entrepreneur The basics of travel hacking and who should (and shouldn't) play the points game How to choose the right credit cards based on your spending habits and business needs The potential pitfalls and risks of chasing points, and how to avoid them Real-life examples of maximizing points for luxury travel and upgrades Top 3 Takeaways Travel hacking isn't for everyone: If you can't pay off your credit cards in full each month, the interest will wipe out any rewards. Discipline is key. Optimize for simplicity: For business owners with predictable expenses, focus on a simple card strategy that matches your spending profile rather than juggling dozens of cards. Leverage business expenses: If you're an entrepreneur, running recurring or high-volume expenses through the right cards can yield significant travel rewards—without extra spending. Notable Quotes "If you have to carry a balance, any interest that you have to pay is going to negate the value that you're getting out of your points." "Real money before points money." "The internet is an illusion, and what's actually happening is most people just don't have the financial discipline to handle this." Connect with Julia Menez: LinkedIn: Julia Menez on LinkedIn Twitter/X: @geobreezetravel Instagram: @geobreezetravel Website: GeoBreeze Travel