Podcasts about unconventional path

Canyon Woodward is pro trail runner for Patagonia from Franklin, NC. Canyon has proven himself to be among the most consistent long-course athletes in America, finishing top five at three golden ticket races in a six-month timespan: Javelina Jundred (3rd), Black Canyon 100k (4th), and Canyons 100k (5th). Carrying a lot of fitness and competitive momentum, Canyon will be a factor at Western States later this month -- a goal he's been chasing for several years.     But Canyon is much more than just a talented runner. He's made his career working in politics and community organizing where he's fought for his values in the public domain – things like rural communities, environmentalism, and conservation, which we discuss at length in the episode.   Also part of our conversation is Canyon's recently signing with Patagonia – the iconic outdoor brand that takes a leadership role in the industry and globally around the things that Canyon cares about – the collision of his running career and his career as an environmentalist and activist coming together is an exciting new partnership. This is his first appearance on the podcast.   Topics:   – Canyon's fascinating childhood and ppbringing – His education and discovering his knack for community organizing – Getting into politics and running a 100% positive campaign – the political power of rural communities – Of course we explore the origins of his running prowess – the value of learning by doing – Consistency and Success in Racing – Navigating Sponsorships and The new Partnership with Patagonia – Preparing for Western States – The Pacer Debate in Ultra Running – Goals for Western States – And a lot more   Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front -- The poem recited at the end of the episode   Sponsors:   Use code FREETRAIL25 for 25% off your first order of NEVERSECOND nutrition at never2.com Check out the Capilene Cool Sun Hoodie from Patagonia Use code FREETRAIL for an extra discount on Clearlight Saunas at HealWithHeat.com Freetrail Links: Website | Freetrail Pro | Patreon | Instagram | YouTube | Freetrail Experts   Dylan Links: Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | Strava

Pilot to Pilot Magazine — Volume 002 is out now. Get yours at pilottopilothq.com/magSponsors — please support the people who support the show: • Avemco Insurance — Save 5% as a Pilot to Pilot listener. Call (888) 635-4297 or visit avemco.com/4297-owner (owners) or avemco.com/4297-non-owner (non-owners) • Textron Aviation — Built for lifelong aviators. Plan your next chapter at txtav.com/stepup • Garmin — Plan, file, fly, log with the Garmin Pilot app • Allworth Airline Advisors — Register for their latest webinar at allworthfinancial.com/justin • Learn the Finer Points — Save 10% off your first year at learnthefinerpoints.com/justin. https://allworthfinancial.com/airlines/lp/runway-for-retirement-webinar?utm_campaign=airlines+-+more+runway+for+retirement?lmls=Partner+Channel&lmld=Pilot+to+Pilot&ad_version=SocialCanadian pilot Mike Andrews has never taken the direct route — and that's exactly what makes his story worth hearing. Growing up in Southern Ontario, Mike got his start through Canada's Air Cadet program, earning a glider license at 16 and a private pilot license at 17 before nearly going the Canadian Armed Forces fighter pilot route. A heart murmur medical delay, a backpacking trip to New Zealand, and a hard reset later, he found himself building a flight school from scratch on Vancouver Island with one airplane and a jacket that said "ask me about flying."Now based on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Mike is one of Canada's leading instructors on the Pipistrel Velis Electro — the country's first electric aircraft approved for primary flight training — and he's about to embark on a brand new chapter as a bird dog pilot doing aerial wildfire fighting in BC's rugged mountain terrain.In this episode, Justin and Mike dig into the Canadian pilot training system, what it's actually like to fly and teach in an electric airplane, the unique aviation culture of the Pacific Northwest coast, and what draws a variety-hungry pilot to a career where low-level mountain flying meets public service. Plus — Mike shares what it was like to nearly make it into Canadian fighter pilot selection before a three-day paperwork deadline changed everything.Topics Covered:Canada's Air Cadet program and glider scholarshipsCanadian vs. American pilot training and instructor rating systemsFlying the Pipistrel Velis Electro — Canada's first electric flight trainerElectric aviation: where it works today and where it's headedAerial wildfire fighting and the bird dog roleBuilding a sub-base flight school on Vancouver Island from the ground upThe TBM 960's "Home Safe" emergency automation featuresWhy variety — not the airlines — has driven Mike's entire career

Welcome back to another episode of The Unconventional Path. In this special reissue from our archives, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman dive deep into the inspiring story of an entrepreneur who turned a passion for crafting into a global e-commerce success.Our guest today is Nicole Snow, the visionary founder of Darn Good Yarn. While many might assume the company is strictly about selling yarn, Nicole reveals how she has grown a multifaceted retail e-commerce business that serves a $44 billion crafting industry. Surprisingly, more than 70% of her revenue now comes from clothing and apparel, alongside a thriving subscription model with over 13,000 monthly members in her yarn club.In this interview, we explore the "human touch" required to build a brand from the ground up. Nicole shares her insights on the grit needed to manage complex international supply chains and the beauty of small business, where job roles often morph into robust, high-impact careers.Key topics discussed in this episode include:Building Community and Trust: Learn how Nicole leveraged these two core values to create a sustainable business model that remains resilient against changing trends and competition.The Power of Subscriptions: Discover how Darn Good Yarn uses a subscription-based model to simplify choices for customers and build long-term loyalty.Scaling a Small Business: Nicole discusses the evolution of her team and how hiring value-driven people allows a company to grow while maintaining its soul.Sustainable Success: Insights into creating a long-lasting business that identifies with the needs of everyday entrepreneurs.Connect with The Unconventional Path:Email: bela.and.mike@gmail.comListen on: iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon, and other major platforms.SEO Search Terms:Entrepreneurship, Small Business Growth, E-commerce Success, Sustainable Business Models, Building Brand Community, Darn Good Yarn, Nicole Snow, Value-Driven Business, Subscription Model Strategy, Supply Chain Management, Unconventional Career Paths, Crafting Industry Trends, Bela Musits, Mike Wasserman, Women in Business.

Comedian Robby Hoffman's career keeps growing, with her memorable roles in hit shows like Rooster and Hacks. When Tom Power spoke to Robby in 2025, she was just nominated for an Emmy for her role in Hacks, and her Just For Laughs show in Montreal had sold out. But Robby hasn't had a conventional path into comedy. From leaving an ultra-Orthodox Hasidic community in Brooklyn as a kid to living in Montreal with her nine siblings, Robby tells Tom Power about how she forged her own path.

Welcome to The Unconventional Path: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Stories and Ideas. In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with a truly deep thinker: Tom Chi. As a founding member of Google X, Tom has spent his career at the intersection of high-stakes technology and profound creative philosophy.When asked the common social question, "What do you do?", Tom doesn't lead with his work on Google Glass or self-driving cars. Instead, he identifies as an artist. With a professional background in songwriting, painting, and graphic design, Tom views any discipline approached with a deep sense of care and craft as reaching the level of artistry. For Tom, this introduction is a litmus test; it filters out "career climbers" and invites genuine connections with people who value mastery and discipline.One of the most compelling parts of the conversation focuses on how we learn. Tom argues that every human is a "genius" between the ages of zero and five. During this window, children learn to coordinate their bodies and master multiple languages with almost zero feeling of effort.Tom teaches that this intrinsic ability is often "trained out of us" as we grow. To illustrate this, he compares a baby learning to walk to a corporate professional. When a baby falls, they might cry for a moment, but they immediately get back up and try again. They don't stop for a postmortem analysis or hold a series of staff meetings to analyze the "failure".Drawing from his experience in rapid product development and rapid prototyping, Tom explains that his high-level consulting is essentially teaching adults how to learn like five-year-olds again. The secret lies in removing the emotional and psychic weight we attach to the word "failure". By stripping away the trauma of falling down in one's career and focusing on fast experimentation, we can return to a state of effortless learning and innovation.Join Bela and Mike for this fascinating dive into the mind of one of the world's most innovative thinkers and learn how to unlock your own unconventional path to success.Connect with The Unconventional Path:Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeTom Chi Google X, rapid prototyping, rapid product development, entrepreneurship and innovation, The Unconventional Path podcast, Bela Musits, Mike Wasserman, learning from failure, growth mindset, innovation strategy, Google X founding member, creativity in business, leadership and artistry, fast experimentation, executive coaching.Beyond the Resume: Tom Chi as an ArtistReclaiming Your Childhood GeniusRapid Prototyping and Fast ExperimentationSEO Search Terms

What does it take to build a thriving, high-performance culture inside one of the fastest-growing tech companies in the world, without ever requiring a college degree to get in the door? Mandy Mekhail, Chief of Staff of People at ClickUp, went from teaching in a classroom to leading the people function at a 1,200-person global company, and her journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, Mandy pulls back the curtain on ClickUp's non-traditional hiring philosophy, their obsession with onboarding excellence, and how they're turning AI agents into literal coworkers on the org chart. Whether you're an HR professional, a people leader, or simply curious about where work is headed, this conversation will challenge the way you think about hiring, culture, and the role of AI in your organization. Don't miss it. Key Timestamps [00:00:00] — Introduction: Mandy's Unconventional Path to People Leadership From educator to customer support to Chief of Staff of People at ClickUp, Mandy shares the leap of faith that started it all and the mindset that carried her through. [00:03:00] — Joining ClickUp at Employee #110 Mandy reflects on what it was like to join ClickUp when it had fewer than 100 functional employees and what it's meant to watch it scale to 1,200 people globally. [00:04:00] — The Role That Shaped Everything: Building the Quality Team Six months into ClickUp, Mandy was tasked with building the customer support quality function — and it became the role that fused her education background with her passion for people impact. [00:05:00] — Recruiting Power Users: ClickUp's Unconventional Hiring Strategy Forget job boards. ClickUp finds top talent by recruiting passionate product users from online forums and communities — and it's still a core part of their strategy today. [00:07:00] — Why ClickUp Dropped the Degree Requirement From Day One CEO Zeb Evans made a deliberate call early on: if a bachelor's degree isn't the real signal of capability, don't require it. Mandy explains how skills, integrity, and passion took its place. [00:09:00] — The Interview Question That Reveals Everything One question ClickUp asks every candidate regardless of role: "Give me an example of when you showed fortitude." Mandy explains why resilience is the great equalizer in hiring. [00:10:00] — Onboarding 500 Employees with a 99% KPI Success Rate Within 90 Days Mandy breaks down the layered, outcome-first onboarding framework that got new hires fully productive in weeks — by embedding them in the product from day one. [00:13:00] — Maintaining Culture Across Time Zones, Countries, and Hub Offices With teams spanning San Diego, Dublin, Sydney, Manila, and beyond, Mandy shares how a shared mission and core values become the unifying force across global subcultures. [00:15:00] — Preventing Burnout in a High-Growth, Fast-Shipping Environment High expectations don't have to mean burnout. Mandy explains why clear communication and respectful manager relationships are the real guardrails — not just PTO policies. [00:17:00] — Practical Boundaries in a Always-On World Mandy shares her personal rule: the ClickUp mobile app gets turned off at 5 PM. A small habit with a big message about modeling the boundaries you want your team to keep. [00:18:00] — Inclusion at Scale: How ClickUp Runs Global All-Hands Meetings Rotating time zones, recorded sessions, and a commitment to giving every employee the opportunity to attend live — Mandy breaks down what operational inclusion actually looks like. [00:19:00] — Why Every Single Communication at ClickUp Lives Inside ClickUp No side channels. No email threads. Every conversation, every message, every decision — all in ClickUp. Here's why that radical commitment powers both inclusion and AI at scale. [00:22:00] — The AI Agent Hour: One Hour a Week That's Changing Everything ClickUp gives employees one dedicated hour per week to play with AI Super Agents — no agenda, no expectations. Mandy explains how this structured playtime is dismantling fear and unlocking innovation. [00:27:00] — Advice for HR Leaders Who Are Afraid of AI Mandy's message to people leaders sitting on the fence: don't let your own fear set the tone for the rest of your organization. Start by understanding it yourself — and lean into your compliance and legal superpowers along the way. [00:29:00] — Where AI Has Made the Biggest Impact in the People Function Tier-one operational tasks are the obvious win, but Mandy points to something most HR teams are still missing: using AI for sentiment analysis of HR processes — and why that's the next frontier. [00:31:00] — AI as a Multiplier, Not a Replacement On the noise around AI layoffs, Mandy is clear: ClickUp treats AI agents as coworkers, not substitutes. They even appear on the org chart with the same data architecture as human employees. [00:33:00] — 5,000 AI Agents for 1,200 Employees Inside ClickUp's internal "agent wins" channel and Help Wanted Board — a grassroots knowledge-sharing system that has resulted in more AI agents than people at the company. [00:36:00] — Closing Thoughts: Don't Be Afraid to Try Something for the First Time Mandy's parting challenge to every listener — whether you're in tech or not: dive in, explore, and trust that understanding AI will transform how you see your role, your team, and your future. A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders." About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

In this episode of The Unconventional Path, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Deborah Clary, a renowned leadership strategist, executive coach, and author of The Curiosity Curve. Deborah shares her profound insights into how curiosity—often dismissed as a childhood trait—is actually a critical state that drives organizational performance and engagement.Deborah's journey into the power of curiosity began during her three decades in the corporate world, where she noticed a stark decline in engagement and productivity. Her research confirmed a direct link between curiosity and performance, leading her to develop frameworks that help leaders transition from a "know-it-all" to a "learn-it-all" mindset.During the conversation, Deborah breaks down the four essential factors of curiosity: exploration, inspirational creativity, openness to new ideas, and focused engagement. She emphasizes that while exploration is vital, it must be balanced with action to avoid becoming a distraction. Leaders learn how to find their place on the "curiosity curve" to ensure their teams are aligned, asking the right questions, and executing strategy effectively.Whether you are a CEO leading a large team or an entrepreneur looking to innovate, this episode provides actionable advice on how to foster a growth mindset and use curiosity as a competitive advantage.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why curiosity is a state that can be learned, not just a fixed trait.The relationship between high curiosity and improved corporate performance.How to shift from making statements to asking powerful questions as a leader.The four pillars of the Curiosity Curve: Exploration, Creativity, Openness, and Engagement.Strategies for aligning executive teams through better inquiry and counsel.Why the best answer a leader can give is often, "I don't know, but let's explore it together".About Deborah Clary: Deborah Clary is an executive coach and leadership strategist dedicated to improving organizational health through the lens of curiosity. With over 30 years of experience navigating complex corporate systems, she helps high-level executives align their teams and drive results by fostering a culture of continuous learning.Connect with The Unconventional Path:Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeSEO Search Terms:Leadership curiosity, executive coaching, Deborah Clary, The Curiosity Curve, organizational performance, growth mindset for leaders, high-performance teams, entrepreneurship innovation, leadership strategy, corporate engagement, learn-it-all mindset, unconventional path podcast, team alignment, executive leadership tips.

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Vinny Mauri was working the floor at a running shoe store in Ohio. Then he ran 2:05:54 and became the fastest American marathon debutant in history.Nobody was watching. That's not hyperbole.  While the running world was fixated on Sabastian Sawe's sub-two-hour performance in London, a 25-year-old from Warren, Ohio quietly dismantled the record books at the Glass City Marathon in Toledo—running solo, without a sponsor, without a pacer, and without anyone outside his circle knowing what was coming. Vinny Mauri's 2:05:54 didn't just break Ryan Hall's American debut record of 2:08:24. It shattered it by nearly three minutes.Dominic sat down with Vinny just two days after the race; before the contracts, before the headlines fully caught up, before the moment had time to calcify into legend. What you get is the raw version: how Vinny built this alone in Ohio, grinding 5:40 and 5:50 pace every day, ripping 20- and 22-mile long runs at five-minute pace with no team, no coach, and no fanfare. A former Arizona State and Notre Dame runner with a 13:34 5K under his belt and a moderately successful collegiate résumé, Vinny never announced himself as a marathon talent. He just trained, showed up in Toledo, won by fifteen minutes, and then talked about what comes next.This is the conversation that happens before everything changes. Share it with one person who needs to believe in what's still possible.Tap into the Vinny Mauri Special.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! S H O W  N O T E S  -The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs-Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run  -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ-My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz

Welcome to another episode of The Unconventional Path, where we explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, and real-world impact. In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Dustin Talacko, a dedicated paramedic and firefighter who is bringing an entrepreneurial mindset to the world of emergency services.Dustin's journey is a powerful example of how passion for a profession can lead to innovative solutions that save time, resources, and potentially lives. As a first responder, Dustin identified critical gaps in the equipment and processes used on the front lines and decided to take action by developing his own solutions.The conversation dives deep into the unique challenges faced by emergency personnel today. Dustin discusses the mental and physical demands of being a firefighter and paramedic, emphasizing the importance of efficiency when every second counts. He shares his transition from identifying a problem in the field to creating a tangible product—a journey that many entrepreneurs will find relatable.Dustin and the hosts explore the process of "boots-on-the-ground" innovation. Key topics include:Identifying the Need: How being an end-user of emergency equipment provided Dustin with the ultimate research and development environment.The Prototype Phase: The hurdles of moving from a concept to a functional tool that can withstand the rigorous conditions of fire and rescue operations.Streamlining Emergency Response: A look at how small changes in equipment design can lead to significant improvements in response times and provider safety.Beyond his specific invention, Dustin talks about the broader need for modernization in public safety. He highlights the often-slow adoption of new technology in government-funded sectors and why it is crucial for active first responders to lead the charge in innovation. His story serves as a call to action for others in "non-traditional" entrepreneurial fields to look for ways to improve their industries from within.Bela and Mike discuss with Dustin the common threads between public service and entrepreneurship: resilience, problem-solving, and a commitment to the mission. Whether you are in tech, retail, or emergency services, the drive to "remake" a process for the better is a universal trait of the unconventional path.Tune in to hear Dustin Talacko's inspiring story of service, ingenuity, and the drive to make a difference.Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeEmergency services innovationFirefighter entrepreneurshipParamedic equipment designFirst responder technologyPublic safety startupsModernizing EMSDustin Talacko interviewThe Unconventional Path podcastBela Musits and Mike WassermanEntrepreneurship in public serviceProduct development for first respondersFire and rescue technology trendsFrom First Responder to InnovatorSolving Real-World ProblemsThe Future of Public Safety TechnologyLessons for Serial EntrepreneursConnect with the Show:SEO Search Terms

In this episode of The Unconventional Path: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Stories and Ideas, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with New York Times best-selling author and innovation expert Brant Cooper. As the CEO and founder of Moves the Needle, Brant has spent over 25 years helping startups and large enterprises navigate the shift from Industrial Age mindsets to Digital Age opportunities.The conversation begins by exploring the evolution of the "lean" concept—from its origins in 1990s lean manufacturing to the modern Lean Entrepreneur. Brant explains his core mission: teaching large, established organizations how to reclaim their entrepreneurial spirit and structure work effectively for the modern era.A central theme of the episode is the stark contrast between the Industrial Age and the Digital Age. Brant uses Henry Ford's assembly line as a metaphor for traditional management, where efficiency was found in repetition and rigid hierarchy. In that era, the "white collar" side of business was simply an extension of this assembly line.Today, however, the world is "completely upside down." With endless options and power in the hands of the consumer, information now resides on the "edges" of a company rather than at the center. Brant argues that companies still using top-down, command-and-control management are too slow and disconnected from their customers. To thrive, organizations must embrace an "age of agile," decentralize decision-making, and create new communication flows.The hosts and guest also discuss the common hurdles to organizational change. Brant addresses the frequent objection that teams "don't have time" for what he calls exploration work—the process of finding answers when faced with uncertainty. He challenges leadership to integrate learning and exploration into daily routines to actually make execution work more efficient.Finally, the group reflects on the communication challenges that arise as a company grows. What starts as a simple "lunch table" communication culture in a small startup must evolve into a structured, two-way flow of information as the organization scales.Tune in to learn how to move your organization toward a more customer-focused, agile, and entrepreneurial future.About Our Guest: Brant Cooper is the author of The Lean Entrepreneur and a trusted advisor to global enterprises. You can find more of his work and insights at brantcooper.com.Connect With UsOur podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeSuggested SEO Keywords: Lean Entrepreneur, Lean Startup, Brant Cooper, Digital Transformation, Agile Management, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Innovation Strategy, Moves the Needle, Industrial Age vs Digital Age, Decentralized Decision Making, Bela Musits, Mike Wasserman.

Welcome to another episode of The Unconventional Path, where we explore extraordinary stories of entrepreneurship and innovation. In this episode, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Mark Fox, a serial entrepreneur whose career journey is as fascinating as it is diverse.Mark Fox isn't your average business owner; he is a former NASA rocket scientist and aerospace engineer who left a secure career to venture into the world of startups. From managing a women's clothing company to his current role as an innovator in the health and wellness space, Mark's story is a prime example of how one can successfully "remake" themselves multiple times.In this interview, Mark shares the "wild" story of how he transitioned into the world of Energy Therapy devices. Surprisingly, his journey didn't start in a lab, but with his dog. After a veterinarian told him there was nothing to be done for his dog's severe arthritis, Mark was introduced to a "magic machine" that claimed to reverse the condition. Despite his initial skepticism as a scientist—viewing it as "voodoo stuff"—the results were undeniable.Mark breaks down the science behind Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy in simple terms. He describes it as the "Earth's heartbeat," a natural energy frequency that originates from lightning bolts echoing off the ionosphere.Key takeaways from the discussion on PEMF include:Energy Exchange: Mark explains that everything in the world is an energy exchange, and PEMF is simply a convenient way to transfer that energy to the body.Recharging Your Cells: Much like a car battery, your cells hold an electrical charge. When this charge is low, nutrients can't enter the cell and waste can't leave. PEMF therapy is proven to recharge these "cell batteries".Boosting ATP: This technology can increase ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)—the primary fuel for your cells—by up to 500%, allowing the body to heal itself more effectively.One of the greatest challenges Mark faces is educating a public that is largely unaware of this technology. While PEMF is widely recognized and used in the equestrian world for horse therapy, only about one in twenty people are familiar with its benefits for humans.Mark's philosophy of "Relief before Reason" prioritizes results over complex technical explanations. As a rocket scientist, he notes that while we have theories for how things like aspirin work, we often value the relief they provide more than the proven mechanism.Tune in to hear Mark Fox discuss the challenges of building a business around a product that requires customer education and why he chose to focus on portable PEMF devices that allow for "therapy on the go".Subscribe to The Unconventional Path for more stories of innovation and entrepreneurial grit! Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeDiscovering PEMF TherapyWhat is PEMF?Innovation and EducationConnect with the Show:

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Glenn Cowan, a former Canadian Special Forces squadron commander, world-record skydiver, and founder of ONE9 Investments, one of Canada's most focused venture firms in defence, national security, and dual-use tech. He has experienced both sides of the mission, from the field to the boardroom, and brings a perspective you do not hear often when it comes to building serious, sovereign technology in 2026.Glenn opens up about his unexpected shift from military operations into venture capital and what he is seeing firsthand as Canada's defence landscape rapidly evolves. He breaks down major moves like the federal government's $35 billion Arctic defence infrastructure push and BDC's expanded $6 billion defence platform, translating what those headlines actually mean for founders, investors, and the country's long-term capability.The conversation also digs into bigger questions, including how Canada balances sovereignty with working alongside allies, why the Arctic is becoming strategically critical, and how venture capital is stepping in as a real force in national security.If you are building in defence tech, investing in dual-use innovation, or simply trying to make sense of where Canada is heading globally, this episode offers a grounded, no-nonsense look at what is happening and what it takes to be part of it.Glenn's Unconventional Path to Venture Capital (01:48)* From infantry officer to JTF2 squadron commander* How 20 years in special operations shaped his investment philosophy* The “wrong end of the trade” moment that led to founding ONE9The Shift in Canada's Defence Landscape (05:37)* Why Canada is moving from the “kids' table” to a relevant middle power* The $35 billion Arctic defence infrastructure announcement* How venture capital is becoming a tool of national securityPublic-Private Partnerships in Defence (08:37)* Why government end users are no longer the sole owners of critical capability* The democratization of space, surveillance, and intelligence* How founders and VCs can partner with end users to build fasterThe Future of Conflict: Cost Asymmetry and Contested Domains (21:52)* How $500,000 in drones can destroy $7 billion in strategic bombers* The rise of lasers, kinetic interceptors, and counter-drone technology* Space as a warfighting domain and what happens when Starlink goes downSovereignty vs. Interoperability (26:55)* What it means for a defence company to be truly Canadian* IP residency, data governance, and Canadian capital stacks* Why Canada needs its own defence primes, not just multinational subsidiariesThe Arctic as a Front Line (31:05)* Why the Northwest Passage and critical minerals are strategic flashpoints* Russian and Chinese activity in Canada's North* Building the first Inuit-led defence company and the importance of local partnershipONE9's Evolution and the Kensington Partnership (40:57)* Why ONE9 joined forces with Kensington Capital and AGF* Scaling a defence-focused investment platform with institutional backing* What's next for Canada's most specialized defence tech fundAbout Glenn CowanGlenn Cowan is a former Canadian Special Forces squadron commander, world-record skydiver, and founder of ONE9 Investments, a venture firm focused on defence, national security, and dual-use technology. A 20-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Glenn spent over a decade conducting strategic missions on behalf of the Government of Canada. He now applies his operational expertise to early-stage investing, backing founders building critical capabilities in autonomy, space, intelligence, and Arctic security. Glenn is also a co-founder of the first Inuit-led defence company and holds multiple world records for skydiving on all seven continents.Connect with Glenn Cowan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-cowan-3387b656/Learn more about ONE9 Investments: https://www.one9.ca/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com

Off-the-shelf immune cell therapies using engineered T cells represent an important direction in cancer treatment. Lili Yang, Ph.D., at UCLA develops an off-the-shelf platform based on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells generated from hematopoietic stem cells, often sourced from cord blood. Yang programs these stem cells with iNKT cell receptors, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), and genes such as IL-15 to create pure, expandable iNKT products that recognize lipid antigens presented by non polymorphic CD1d molecules. These cells combine multiple killing mechanisms, infiltrate tissues, target tumor cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells, and show reduced risk of graft versus host disease and cytokine release syndrome in preclinical models. Yang's group tests this strategy in models of blood cancers and solid tumors, aiming to generate many therapeutic doses from a single donor. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40846]

Off-the-shelf immune cell therapies using engineered T cells represent an important direction in cancer treatment. Lili Yang, Ph.D., at UCLA develops an off-the-shelf platform based on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells generated from hematopoietic stem cells, often sourced from cord blood. Yang programs these stem cells with iNKT cell receptors, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), and genes such as IL-15 to create pure, expandable iNKT products that recognize lipid antigens presented by non polymorphic CD1d molecules. These cells combine multiple killing mechanisms, infiltrate tissues, target tumor cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells, and show reduced risk of graft versus host disease and cytokine release syndrome in preclinical models. Yang's group tests this strategy in models of blood cancers and solid tumors, aiming to generate many therapeutic doses from a single donor. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40846]

Off-the-shelf immune cell therapies using engineered T cells represent an important direction in cancer treatment. Lili Yang, Ph.D., at UCLA develops an off-the-shelf platform based on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells generated from hematopoietic stem cells, often sourced from cord blood. Yang programs these stem cells with iNKT cell receptors, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), and genes such as IL-15 to create pure, expandable iNKT products that recognize lipid antigens presented by non polymorphic CD1d molecules. These cells combine multiple killing mechanisms, infiltrate tissues, target tumor cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells, and show reduced risk of graft versus host disease and cytokine release syndrome in preclinical models. Yang's group tests this strategy in models of blood cancers and solid tumors, aiming to generate many therapeutic doses from a single donor. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40846]

Off-the-shelf immune cell therapies using engineered T cells represent an important direction in cancer treatment. Lili Yang, Ph.D., at UCLA develops an off-the-shelf platform based on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells generated from hematopoietic stem cells, often sourced from cord blood. Yang programs these stem cells with iNKT cell receptors, chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), and genes such as IL-15 to create pure, expandable iNKT products that recognize lipid antigens presented by non polymorphic CD1d molecules. These cells combine multiple killing mechanisms, infiltrate tissues, target tumor cells and immunosuppressive myeloid cells, and show reduced risk of graft versus host disease and cytokine release syndrome in preclinical models. Yang's group tests this strategy in models of blood cancers and solid tumors, aiming to generate many therapeutic doses from a single donor. Series: "Stem Cell Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40846]

Welcome to another episode of The Unconventional Path, where hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman explore the unique journeys of entrepreneurs and innovators. In this episode, we sit down with Kat Koppett, the founder of Koppett and the Mopco Improv Theatre. Kat has successfully merged her background in theatre with organizational development, creating a unique business model that helps leaders and teams expand their performance range.The Intersection of Improv and LeadershipKat Koppett's journey is the definition of an unconventional path. Starting as a theatre major with dreams of Broadway, Kat discovered a powerful connection between the skills used in improvisational theatre and those required for effective leadership and management. Today, she operates two distinct but deeply connected businesses:Mopco Improv Theatre: A professional improvisational theatre company dedicated to the art of performance.Koppett: An applied improvisation and organizational development company that takes improv techniques off the stage and into the boardroom.Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeBy using "applied improvisation," Kat helps professionals improve their awareness and communication skills on "any stage that isn't a literal stage". Her work demonstrates how taking a core passion and applying it to different business models can lead to a fulfilling and sustainable career.From New York to California and BackKat's personal history is as varied as her professional one. Born in New York City, she moved to Palo Alto, California, at age eight before eventually returning to New York for college and graduate school. She shares how living in major metropolitan hubs like the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City shaped her worldview, but it was moving to Upstate New York that truly opened her eyes to the diversity of the world. This perspective has fueled her curiosity and broadened her approach to business and life.A Legacy of Creativity and PassionThe daughter of a legendary sports writer for the New York Times, Kat grew up surrounded by theater, museums, and culture. Her father, who holds the rare distinction of being in both the baseball and basketball halls of fame, taught her the importance of doing what you love. This philosophy is at the heart of Kat's success, as she continues to help organizations worldwide find their own "creative spark" through the principles of improv.Connect With Us

What if you didn't have to be a top junior to become a professional tennis player?In this episode of Control the Controllables, we speak with Belgian professional tennis player Sander Gille, a Roland Garros finalist, Olympic competitor, Davis Cup player and former World No.18 in doubles.Sander's journey to the top of the game is anything but traditional. He wasn't a standout junior, didn't grow up expecting to turn professional, and at 17 he chose US college tennis simply to continue playing while earning a degree. After college, Sander decided to give the professional tour a try — funding his early career through crowdfunding, league tennis, and relentless persistence. Years later, that journey led him to the Roland Garros final and the top of the ATP doubles rankings.This episode is a powerful reminder that there are many different pathways to success in tennis.In this episode:Growing up playing multiple sports before choosing tennisWhy Sander never planned to become a professional playerThe decision-making process behind his college career in the US and transitioning to professional tennisHow crowdfunding helped keep his career going early on.How injuries shaped his focus from singles to doubles and lessons learned along the way.Key insights on finding his game, mental resilience, and balancing success with authenticity.Memorable experiences, including playing Andy Murray at the Olympics and reaching a Grand Slam final.Reflections on partnership longevity, team dynamics, and future goals in doubles.If you're chasing a career in tennis or supporting someone who is, this is a story you need to hear.CONNECT WITH CONTROL THE CONTROLLABLESWebsite: https://www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctc.podcast/Email us: ctc.podcast@sototennis.com

Doug Springer is 80 years old, but looks and swims like he's 20 years younger. He joins us to unpack the swims that led to four world records, including a jaw-dropping 400 IM where he took 17 seconds off the world mark and cleared the national record by 35. If you love masters swimming, training for longevity, or simply want proof that performance doesn't expire, this conversation delivers real fuel.We dig into the details that make Doug's approach so fascinating. He's a self-described breaststroker, yet he leans into unconventional solutions across strokes, including breaststroke kick during butterfly and a double-arm backstroke paired with that same kick. The bigger takeaway isn't “break the rules,” it's “know your strengths,” then build technique you can repeat under fatigue while protecting your shoulders and joints. For adult swimmers and older athletes, that mindset can be the difference between plateau and progress.Doug also shares a practical, repeatable masters swim training rhythm: sprint-focused days, distance-focused days, and a realistic weekly schedule built around work and recovery. We talk favourite sets, why 50s are a staple for many older swimmers, and how he helped build a thriving masters program in a retirement community, using USMS Adult Learn to Swim to welcome beginners and dual meets to make racing feel inviting. If you've ever wondered how to stay fast, connected, and motivated in the pool for decades, press play.Subscribe for more stories and coaching-grade tips, share this with a lane mate, and leave a review if the show helps you swim and live better. What's one part of your training you'd change to swim strong for life?Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns. You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

In this episode of The Unconventional Path, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Vi Wickham, the founder of Wizard of Ads Online, to discuss how small to medium-sized businesses can navigate the complex world of digital marketing. Vai is not only a digital marketing expert and web developer but also a five-time Colorado state fiddling champion, bringing a unique, creative perspective to entrepreneurship and innovation.The transition from traditional advertising—like the local newspaper and Yellow Pages—to the digital age has created a complex environment for modern entrepreneurs. Vi simplifies this landscape by breaking down the three foundational "layers" every business owner needs to establish a credible and searchable online presence.The Website as Your Home Base: Why your website is the foundation of your online reputation and why it must communicate your purpose clearly without using "insider language" or "techno mumbo jumbo".+1The "Grandfather Test" for Business: Bela and Vi discuss the strategic importance of being able to explain your business so simply that even your grandfather would understand it.Local Search Marketing: How to use local search submissions to provide "proof" to Google that your business is a real entity deserving of a high rank in your specific town.+1The "500-Pound Gorilla" of Search: Why the Google Business Profile is the most critical third-party site for local businesses and how it controls over 90% of search traffic.Navigating Secondary Platforms: A look at the next tier of digital reputation management, including Facebook, Yelp, Bing, and the emerging challenges of Apple's business tools.Strategy vs. Wordsmithing: Understanding the difference between knowing your core message and the creative process of picking the right words to attract the customers you want—and repel the ones you don't.Vi Wickham is a web developer, digital marketer, and the founder of Wizard of Ads Online, where he helps companies establish and implement effective digital marketing strategies. He is also a celebrated musician, holding five state fiddling titles and three national runner-up titles.Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeIn This Episode, You'll Discover:About the Guest:Connect with the Show:

Most brokers pitch self-funding as a silver bullet for cost containment, focusing on administrative fees and stop-loss premiums. But they ignore the elephant in the room: the actual claims data. If you are only trying to shave 10% off the admin fee - which represents just 15% of the total cost - you are completely missing the opportunity to find massive savings in the 85% of the pie that actually matters.My guest, Jeff Borglund, Co-Founder of IntegroIQ, joins me to explain why forensic claims auditing is the ultimate wedge strategy to win and retain self-funded clients. We break down the difference between a targeted audit and a forensic review, and why employers are choosing "ignorance" despite mounting ERISA fiduciary lawsuits. If you want to differentiate your agency and offer a cost-containment strategy that requires zero employee disruption, this is the episode for you.▶▶ Sign Up For Your Free Discovery Callcompletegameu.com/agaKEY MOMENTS(00:00:35) The Sausage Salesman: Jeff's Unconventional Path to Insurance (00:02:19) The Forbes Article That Changed Everything (00:06:34) What is Claims Payment Integrity? (And Why is it a Blind Spot?) (00:07:33) Forensic Audits: Finding the $69,000 Mammogram Mistake (00:12:22) Shifting from "Identify and Recover" to "Identify and Prevent" (00:14:02) Fiduciary Ignorance: Why Employers Put Their Heads in the Sand (00:21:04) Fraud, Waste, and Abuse: The Most Common Billing Errors (00:25:05) How Brokers Use IntegroIQ as Their Back-Office Data Team (00:30:35) Jeff's Morning Routine: Coffee, Scripture, and High-Altitude HikingCONNECT WITH ANDY NEARY

Though Michele Woodrum has achieved success and found family at Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, her path to the in-plant was winding, encompassing stints in law enforcement and the military, following a family tradition of service stretching back to the Revolutionary War.

Delanie Fischer chats with filmmaker and creator of Earthlings Shaun Monson about his creative process, evolving as an artist and activist, and balancing meaningful, niche storytelling with commercial work. He shares candid advice for filmmakers on staying true to your voice while building a sustainable creative career. Episode Highlights:  Rejection to Virality: Inspiration + Word of Mouth Shaun's Favorite Tools & Inside His Creative Process Powerful Advice to Shaun from James Cameron Editing: How Much to Show in Non-Fiction Film 2 Genres That Support Small Budgets & Visibility Have You Tried the Opposite of Your Usual Approach? 4 Powerful Quotes for Artists and Activists Collaborating with Celebs Who Share Your Values Check out Shaun's Films: https://www.nationearth.com/ ____ A quick 5-star rating means a ton! ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-helpless/id1251196416⁠ Get a bunch of free Self-Helpless goodies: ⁠https://www.selfhelplesspodcast.com/⁠ Ad-free episodes now on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless⁠ Your Host, Delanie Fischer:⁠ https://www.delaniefischer.com⁠ ____ Related Episodes: Filmmaker Kit Williamson on the Highs and Lows of a Creative Career: Dead Projects, Taking Control & an Unconventional Path: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/1db83de7/filmmaker-kit-williamson-on-the-highs-and-lows-of-a-creative-career-dead-projects-taking-control-and-an-unconventional-path We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee Can Ambition Be Sustainable? How to Prioritize What Matters in Life and Work with Kathy Oneto: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/469eca67/can-ambition-be-sustainable-how-to-prioritize-what-matters-in-life-and-work-with-kathy-oneto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Unconventional Path: Entrepreneurship and Innovation Stories and Ideas, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman dive into the world of career reinvention and the entrepreneurial spirit with guest Mark Compeau. Originally released in May 2020, this classic reissue is paired with a recent conversation to provide a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to launch a new chapter in their professional life.About This EpisodeMark Compeau is the epitome of an unconventional path. With nearly 20 years of experience teaching entrepreneurship, innovation, and marketing at Clarkson University, Mark has not only shared his knowledge with students but has also lived the entrepreneurial dream himself. For the past five years, he has been the owner of Jake on the Water, a successful restaurant in Hannawa Falls, New York.Recorded live at Mark's restaurant, this interview captures the authentic energy of a small business owner who has successfully navigated the transition from academia to the hospitality industry. Mark shares his lifelong passion for sales, beginning with childhood fundraising contests where he consistently broke records. He discusses how he "caught the bug" of entrepreneurship at an early age by listening to his father's dining room conversations about the stresses and successes of starting an architectural firm.Key Insights for EntrepreneursThe Power of Independence: From a young age, Mark knew he wanted to be self-made and independent, even if he didn't initially know what form that would take.Navigating Rejection: Mark's journey began with a significant pivot after being rejected from architecture school, demonstrating that unexpected turns can lead to fulfilling destinations.The Second Career: Learn how to leverage decades of experience as a professor and consultant to build a tangible, local business like Jake on the Water.The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Discover how early experiences in sales and bootstrapping can lay the foundation for a lifetime of innovation.Whether you are a current business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone feeling stuck in your current career, Mark's story offers valuable insights into finding happiness through work and life. Join Bela and Mike as they explore the lessons learned over three decades of investing, managing, and teaching.Connect With UsOur podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeKeywords: Entrepreneurship, Mark Campeau, Small Business, Opportunity Recognition, Clarkson University, Jake's on the Water, Innovation, Real Estate Investment, Career Path, Bela Musits, Mike Wasserman.

Breaking into Cybersecurity with Shadya MaldonadoIn this episode of Breaking into Cybersecurity, Shadya Maldonado, Founder and CEO of ArcQubit, shares her journey and extensive experience in the field. With 16 years in security operations, technology modernization, and risk management, Shadya discusses her transition from a military analyst to a leader in cybersecurity and AI. She highlights her work with organizations such as CISA, DARPA, DOE, and NASA, as well as her passion for developing tools to make quantum computing accessible. Shadya also offers valuable advice for individuals looking to grow their careers in cybersecurity.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:16 Shaday's Unconventional Path to Cybersecurity01:48 From Military to Cybersecurity02:50 Exposure to Data Science and Cybersecurity03:43 Immersion in Cybersecurity and SANS Conference04:45 Founding Arc Qubit and Quantum Computing06:49 Developing Quantum-Ready Talent14:02 The Importance of Cybersecurity Knowledge21:06 Shaday's Leadership Journey24:24 Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals26:09 Closing RemarksSponsored by CPF Coaching LLC - http://cpf-coaching.comThe Breaking into Cybersecurity: It's a conversation about what they did before, why they pivoted into cyber, what the process was they went through, how they keep up, and advice/tips/tricks along the way.The Breaking into Cybersecurity Leadership Series is an additional series focused on cybersecurity leadership and hearing directly from different leaders in cybersecurity (high and low) on what it takes to be a successful leader. We focus on the skills and competencies associated with cybersecurity leadership, as well as tips/tricks/advice from cybersecurity leaders.Check out our books:The Cybersecurity Advantage - https://leanpub.com/the-cybersecurity-advantageDevelop Your Cybersecurity Career Path: How to Break into Cybersecurity at Any Level https://amzn.to/3443AUIHack the Cybersecurity Interview: Navigate Cybersecurity Interviews with Confidence, from Entry-level to Expert roleshttps://www.amazon.com/Hack-Cybersecurity-Interview-Interviews-Entry-level/dp/1835461298/Hacker Inc.: Mindset For Your Careerhttps://www.amazon.com/Hacker-Inc-Mindset-Your-Career/dp/B0DKTK1R93/About the hosts:Renee Small is the CEO of Cyber Human Capital, one of the leading human resources business partners in the field of cybersecurity, and author of the Amazon #1 best-selling book, Magnetic Hiring: Your Company's Secret Weapon to Attracting Top Cyber Security Talent. She is committed to helping leaders close the cybersecurity talent gap by hiring from within and encouraging more people to enter the lucrative cybersecurity profession. https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneebrownsmall/Download a free copy of her book at magnetichiring.com/bookChristophe Foulon focuses on helping secure people and processes, drawing on a solid understanding of the technologies involved. He has over ten years of experience as an Information Security Manager and Cybersecurity Strategist. He is passionate about customer service, process improvement, and information security. He has significant expertise in optimizing technology use while balancing its implications for people, processes, and information security, through a consultative approach.https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophefoulon/Find out more about CPF-Coaching at https://www.cpf-coaching.comWebsite: https://www.cyberhubpodcast.com/breakingintocybersecurityPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/breaking-into-cybersecuriYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BreakingIntoCybersecurityLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-into-cybersecurity/

Season 6, Episode 715:  **A Marine's Unconventional Path to Charity Work** When Conzo left the U.S. Marines, he never imagined his next chapter would involve OnlyFans, a UK dating show appearance, and becoming an accidental meme. (Ladbible apparently loves using his image as clickbait for completely unrelated stories.) This former Marine now uses adult content creation to fund animal rescue, LGBTQ youth support, and domestic abuse survivor assistance—all while challenging society's discomfort with sexuality and nudity. Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conzo0311 LADbible: https://www.ladbible.com/entertainment/tv/naked-attraction-contestants-where-are-they-now-connor-conzo-tiktok-777527-20230920 Daily Star: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/tv/marine-who-starred-naked-attraction-32726872 After discovering financial mismanagement at a horse rehabilitation charity in Scotland where he served as vice chairperson, Conzo faced a moral crossroads. The animals needed immediate help. His solution? **OnlyFans became his fundraising platform**, despite initial hesitation about the unconventional approach. Beyond the fundraising aspect, he found the work personally transformative and healing, helping him process past trauma and discover his sexuality. Why does sex work carry such stigma when it's simply labor performed by people—often parents with special needs children, disabled individuals, or neurodivergent people—who struggle in traditional employment without adequate state support? Conzo argues that opposition stems from control rather than genuine welfare concerns, noting how society suddenly found moral outrage when women started controlling their own earnings on platforms like OnlyFans. Ready to hear more about redefining masculinity, navigating stigma, and finding purpose through unconventional means? This conversation goes deep. Key Takeaways:  • **Sex work as trauma healing**: Conzo describes his OnlyFans work as genuinely transformative for processing military trauma, challenging the assumption that sex work is inherently exploitative or damaging to the performer. • **Diverse sex worker demographics**: A significant portion of sex workers are parents, disabled individuals, and neurodivergent people using it out of economic necessity due to inadequate state support—not a fringe phenomenon. • **Decriminalization as harm reduction**: Conzo argues that criminalizing sex work increases danger and exploitation, suggesting legalization protects workers better than moral crusades framed around "rescue" narratives. Ruan's Links, Newsletter Signup, Affiliate links and Deals:  PodNation Podcast Affiliate link, Get 15% OFF with code podna15 on Ryze Coffee at ⁠https://www.ryzesuperfoods.com/⁠ ⁠Support the show and get exclusive content⁠ Sign up for Ruan's Newsletters ⁠https://subscribepage.io/ruanwillow⁠ All Ruan's links and books: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RuanWillow⁠ Affiliate link, collect your body's health and sexual health info with a wearable device for men from Firm Tech 15% OFF with code ruan15 ⁠https://myfirmtech.com/ruanwillow⁠ BeeDee app. Enter the code ohfuckyeah on the Whips ('superlikes') page to get 1 free Whip, use my affiliate link to check out this app at ⁠https://beedee.app/?r=ohfuckyeah⁠ The Fantasy Box, where you can try out a similar fantasy in a box, or find a theme you like! (affiliate link) ⁠https://thefantasybox.sjv.io/c/6250602/2141126/26423⁠ ⁠https://thefantasybox.sjv.io/c/6250602/2152196/26423 Opus Clip Copyright 2026 Pink Infinity Publishing. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode of The Unconventional Path, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Tony Marinello, a retired New York State Trooper who turned a "retirement vacation" into a high-stakes, life-saving aviation venture. When Tony bought a small cargo airline to the Bahamas, he never expected to found the region's first-ever dedicated helicopter air ambulance service.+4While living in the United States often guarantees rapid emergency response, Tony realized that the 700 islands of the Bahamas tell a different story. After a pilot called him about a passenger potentially suffering a stroke on a remote island, Tony spent hours trying to find an air ambulance, only to discover that no such service existed for the region. Faced with the reality that medical help was days—not minutes—away, Tony decided to pivot his entire business model.+4Tony's background as a rescue helicopter pilot for 21 years gave him the expertise needed to navigate this complex industry. However, the "odyssey" to launch Tropic Air Rescue took two years of securing licenses, purchasing helicopters, and hiring a specialized medical team of doctors and paramedics. Today, the company provides emergency medical evacuation from the Bahamas back to top-tier trauma centers in Florida, including Fort Lauderdale and Miami.+4Because traditional air ambulance flights can cost tens of thousands of dollars out-of-pocket, Tony designed a membership-based system. For a yearly fee, members (including boaters, second-home owners, and tourists) gain access to:+124/7 Emergency Response: A dedicated team ready to launch at a moment's notice.Direct Transport: Evacuation from remote islands or vessels directly to specialized U.S. hospitals.+1Specialized Care: Transport to facilities with experts in everything from shark injuries to stroke and cardiac care.+1Tony's story is a powerful example of identifying a desperate need and fulfilling it. He shares insights into the challenges of starting a service-oriented business later in life and the importance of having a clear mission. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking for a new niche or a traveler heading to the Caribbean, Tony's "unconventional path" offers vital lessons on grit and preparation.+3Learn more about Tropic Air Rescue: tropicrescue.comOur podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and Mike

In this captivating episode, Andy Lopata sits down with the remarkable Marianne Abib-Pech. A dynamic leader, Marianne transitioned from a highly successful corporate finance career—culminating as CFO of Shell Aviation at just 34—to launching an M&A advisory practice for frontier markets in 2014. In 2022, she co-founded Transitions First, an international industrial venture fund dedicated to scalable start-ups rebuilding net-zero-compliant supply chains. Recognised for her leadership and visionary thinking, Marianne is driven by a belief that value creation stems from thinking differently, communicating authentically, and driving transformation. In this discussion, Marianne shares the pivotal moments, lessons learned, and unique mindset that propelled her forward. Andy and Marianne consider her extraordinary journey, exploring the nuances of cultural navigation (both national and functional), the power of curiosity, the art of strategic risk-taking, and the often-overlooked strength in asking for help. Marianne also provides fascinating insights into the "multidimensionality" of leadership, blending creative and structured thinking, and the critical role of neuroscience in understanding human connection and trust. What we discussed: The "Unconventional" Path to Rapid Executive Ascent: Ever wonder how someone becomes a Global CFO of a major corporation by their mid-thirties? This episode reveals the mindset and strategic moves that defy traditional career ladders. Luck: Is it Just Chance, or Something You Create? Examine a powerful, ancient definition of luck that challenges common perceptions and uncovers how you might be missing opportunities to "engineer" your own fortunate breaks. Beyond Borders: The Hidden "Cultures" You Need to Navigate: Discover how mastering not just national but also functional and organisational cultural differences can unlock unparalleled connection and influence in any environment. The Surprising Power of Your Brain's Chemistry in Leadership: What if building trust and achieving results was less about strategy and more about triggering the right neurochemicals? Explore the cutting-edge intersection of neuroscience and effective leadership. Risk-Taking & Asking for Help: Are Your Fears Holding You Back? Learn why embracing bold risks and humbly seeking assistance are not signs of weakness, but rather crucial accelerators for growth that most leaders overlook. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Marianne Abib-Pech: Website |LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Book: "The Financial Times Guide to Leadership" (Second Edition) Book: “The Artist's Way” By Julia Cameron

In this reissue episode of The Unconventional Path, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman explore the powerful impact of niche marketing within massive global industries. They are joined by Tyler Ornstein, the visionary founder of Tyler's Coffee, who shares his remarkable journey of launching a business at just 15 years old.Tyler's Coffee holds a unique position as the creator of the world's first and only acid-free coffee. Tyler explains how identifying a clear and distinctive product differentiator allowed him to thrive in a highly competitive market dominated by industry giants. Unlike many competitors, Tyler's Coffee does not compete on price; instead, it offers a premium product that addresses specific health concerns like heartburn and digestive issues without sacrificing flavor.The conversation delves into the evolution of the digital economy and how platforms like Amazon have enabled entrepreneurs to reach a global audience, making it easier than ever to build and sustain a successful niche. Tyler also reflects on being a pioneer in the subscription model space, discussing the technical challenges of implementing recurring billing before it became a standard industry practice.Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, this episode provides valuable insights into turning visionary ideas into tangible, successful ventures by focusing on quality and specialization.Key Topics Covered:The Power of Niche Marketing: How Tyler's Coffee carved out a segment in a $1.6 trillion industry by focusing on a specific consumer need.Innovation at a Young Age: Tyler shares the story of starting his company as a teenager with the support of his father.Product Differentiation: The importance of creating a unique product—like acid-free coffee—that offers clear benefits such as no "bitter bite" or upset stomach.The Global Digital Economy: How modern technology allows businesses to expand their reach far beyond their local market.Subscription Models: The early days of web-based recurring billing and the forward-thinking vision required to implement it.Health and Wellness in Coffee: A look into the science of pH levels and how acidic beverages impact the body's natural neutrality.About the Guest: Tyler Ornstein is the founder of Tyler's Coffee. He is a pioneer in the coffee industry, having developed a proprietary process to create acid-free coffee that is safe for individuals with sensitive stomachs and other medical considerations.About the Podcast: The Unconventional Path features stories of entrepreneurship and innovation, hosted by former Clarkson University professors Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman. With an extensive archive of over 180 episodes, the show highlights unique business journeys and the creative ideas that drive them.Our podcast is now available on YouTube. Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and Mike

Why This Episode Matters:This episode is a deep, grounded reminder that longevity in music doesn't come from chasing trends or algorithms. It comes from doing the work, living life, and letting experience shape the sound. Recorded in person at Nothing_Neue's Brooklyn studio, the conversation is reflective, practical, and quietly powerful.Who is Nothing_Neue:Nothing_Neue is a Brooklyn-based producer and artist whose work sits at the intersection of broken beat, soul, hip-hop, and experimental rhythm. Alongside his own artistic output, he works within the music tech world, giving him a rare dual perspective on creativity, industry pressure, and identity.What We Dive Into:* Why living life is essential to making meaningful music* The danger of chasing “radio friendly” or algorithm-approved sounds* Separating your artistic identity from your day job* Morning practice, discipline, and removing creative pressure* Letting unfinished ideas have value instead of forcing outcomes* Why support has to be active, not passive* Choosing an unconventional path and accepting unconventional resultsThree Key Takeaways:* You can't skip life and expect great art: Music gets better when it's informed by lived experience, not constant output.* Unconventional paths come with unconventional timelines: If you choose authenticity, you have to accept results that don't mirror anyone else's.* Practice removes pressure: When music has a guaranteed place in your day, everything else becomes bonus time.Before You Go:If you've been forcing productivity or measuring your work against someone else's success, take a step back. Build your walls, rooms, and houses before worrying about the final home. Progress isn't always loud.Chapters:0:00 – In-studio intro from Brooklyn0:57 – D'Angelo, life experience, and making music too close to the work2:46 – Why living life improves creativity4:04 – Gym vs bike analogy for creative process4:46 – Printing demos and listening away from the studio6:45 – Distance, objectivity, and breaking critical habits9:28 – Substances, creativity, and emotional avoidance11:42 – Pain, avoidance, and emotional honesty13:48 – Family, mortality, and confronting old wounds16:55 – Reprioritizing time, discipline, and energy19:57 – Discovering The Big Leap and the upper-limit problem24:38 – Self-imposed ceilings and early musical validation28:46 – Playlist Retreat, imposter syndrome, and belonging32:54 – Music as a communal experience36:12 – Letting ego step aside for collaboration40:41 – Translating inspiration into technique45:24 – How Nothing Neue practices instruments48:54 – Learning taste, preference, and musical language52:02 – Weed, reading, and rethinking time55:18 – Walls, Rooms, Houses, Homes creative framework58:53 – Morning practice and removing pressure1:03:18 – Weekday vs weekend creative routines1:05:24 – Recent releases and upcoming remixes1:06:27 – Favorite hardware and inspirations1:07:41 – Artists that changed his thinking1:07:57 – Best free tools and YouTube as education1:12:55 – Learning fundamentals vs chasing shortcuts1:17:44 – Rapid-fire questions1:18:33 – Loneliness in the music industry1:20:06 – Underrated “product” for creatives1:21:26 – Advice ignored and advice worth ignoring1:23:24 – Authenticity over chasing radio success1:24:40 – Undoing algorithms and passive consumption1:27:21 – Active support, community, and closing thoughts1:29:02 – Final recap and ProducerHead outroList of References from the Interview:Songs / Artists* D'Angelo* Lyric JonesBooks* Making Records by Phil RamoneHardware / Tools* SP-404* Alpha Juno* SeratoConnect with Nothing_Neue:* YouTube: @NothingNeue* Instagram: @nothing_neue* Spotify: Nothing_Neue* Apple Music: Nothing_NeueConnect with Toru:* Website: torubeat.com* Instagram: @torubeat* YouTube: @torubeat* Spotify: Toru* Apple Music: ToruCredits:This episode was co-produced, engineered and edited by Matthew Diaz. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace. Get full access to ProducerHead at producerhead.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Unconventional Path, hosts Bela Musits and Mike Wasserman sit down with Dave Munson, the founder of Saddleback Leather Company. If you have ever wondered how to build a business that prioritizes legacy over quick profits, this conversation is for you. Dave shares his "non-traditional" approach to entrepreneurship, shifting from his roots as a youth pastor to creating a global leather brand famous for its "They'll Fight Over It When You're Dead" warranty.+4The leather goods market is often viewed as a crowded, commodity-driven space. Dave explains how Saddleback Leather differentiates itself by refusing to compete on price. While many companies cheapen materials to satisfy shareholders or venture capitalists, Dave and his family own 100% of the company. This independence allows them to use the toughest leather, highest-quality linings, and most durable hardware available—creating products like $700 briefcases that are designed to last a century.+4Saddleback Leather operates a factory in Mexico employing approximately 150 people. Dave discusses the importance of quality control when dealing with raw materials like leather, which varies by hide. To maintain excellence, he sources from top-tier tanneries in both the United States and Europe.+3Dave doesn't rely on traditional marketing; instead, he uses storytelling to build a community of "super fans". The Saddleback website is famous for sharing Dave's personal adventures, his family life, and the founding story of the brand. By focusing on brand strength rather than aggressive sales tactics, the company has secured high-profile partnerships with organizations like Toyota and luxury hotels through word-of-mouth alone.+4Now based in Fort Worth, Texas, Dave is currently building a unique headquarters featuring buildings made from compressed leather bales. He shares his philosophy on leadership, emphasizing the need to encourage employees—even if that means helping them eventually start their own businesses.+4Don't Race to the Bottom: Instead of asking why your product is expensive, ask why your competitors' products are so cheap.The Power of Persistence: Dave likens entrepreneurship to karate, noting that the only difference between a white belt and a black belt is that the black belt kept going.Branding vs. Marketing: Focus on building a strong brand identity that people want to associate with.Connect with Saddleback Leather Company: Visit their website to read Dave's memoir and see his latest leather designs.Our podcast is now available on YouTube.  Simply search for "The Unconventional Path" to subscribe and never miss an episode.We're always on the lookout for interesting guests to feature on our show. If you know someone who has an inspiring story, unique perspective, or valuable expertise to share, please let us know. We're eager to connect with potential guests who can bring fresh insights and engaging conversations to our audience.We also love hearing from our listeners! Your questions, comments, and suggestions are incredibly valuable to us. Send us an email at bela.and.mike@gmail.com with your thoughts, and we'll do our best to address them in a future episode. Whether you have a question about a specific topic, feedback on a recent episode, or ideas for future content, we want to hear from you. Your engagement helps us shape the show and deliver content that resonates with our listeners.Thanks for listening,Bela and MikeThe Anti-Commodity StrategyManufacturing and Global FootprintMarketing Through StorytellingLeadership and VisionKey Takeaways from the Episode:

Not every pilot's journey starts with dreams of flight—some begin with a challenge and a bottle of Eagle Rare bourbon.In this episode, we sit down with Nick Fialka, captain at a major airline, host of the Ready for Pushback podcast, and interview coach at Spitfire Elite. Nick's path to the cockpit is anything but conventional. From attending The Citadel (not exactly known for churning out pilots) to flying helicopters in the Navy, then leaving it all to build a successful RV park in Florida—Nick thought the airlines weren't in his future.That changed when a retired Delta captain rolled into his RV park with a $700,000 rig and convinced him over whiskey that he belonged at 35,000 feet.We dive deep into what it really takes to land a job at a major airline in today's market. Nick pulls back the curtain on the interview process, sharing the mistakes that sink applications before they're even read, the logbook disasters that cost pilots their dream jobs, and why spending $600 on interview prep for a $22 million career is the easiest decision you'll ever make.We also tackle the reality of aviation's boom-and-bust cycles, what the 2026 hiring landscape looks like, and why even the most senior pilots need to keep one eye on their next move. Whether you're building hours at a regional, prepping for your first major airline interview, or just trying to figure out if this career is right for you—this conversation is packed with real talk and actionable advice.Plus, Nick shares why leading with empathy beats canned answers every time, and how your attitude might matter more than your flight time.

As we step into a new year, many of us feel it—that quiet but persistent pressure to do more, fix more, and somehow have everything figured out right now. New goals, new systems, bigger numbers—and for practice owners, that pressure can feel especially heavy and often pretty lonely. In today's episode, I want to invite you to think about January differently—not as a month for pushing harder or becoming more efficient, but as a chance to slow down and get honest about what you can actually hold. Drawing on Barbara Brown Taylor's Home by Another Way and Oliver Burkeman's 4,000 Weeks, we'll talk about burnout, the efficiency trap, and why things don't magically get easier "once we get there." This conversation is about reconnecting with your why, redefining what growth really means, and considering what it might look like to go home by another way this year—one that creates more space, alignment, and sustainability in your practice and your life. Resources Mentioned In This Episode  Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes free Consulting with Gordon The PsychCraft Network Profit First for Therapists Workbook Home By Another Way Four Thousand Weeks

When Kevin Kelly dropped out of college in the 1970s, it was almost unheard of. Instead of following a traditional path, he chose a life driven by curiosity, freedom, and hands-on learning. That decision led him to hitchhike across Asia, document disappearing cultures, and eventually immerse himself in the early internet. Years later, he co-founded Wired, a magazine that soon became the voice of emerging technology and culture. In this episode, Kevin joins Ilana to share how Wired went from fighting for shelf space to redefining what a tech publication could be. He also explains his unique relationship with time, why he tracks the days he has left, and how creators today can thrive with just 1,000 true fans. Kevin Kelly is a writer, photographer, and Senior Maverick at Wired, an award-winning magazine he co-founded in 1993. He is also a former editor and publisher of the Whole Earth Review and the author of multiple bestselling books about the future of technology. In this episode, Ilana and Kevin will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:14) Choosing an Unconventional Path to Success (06:34) The Start of His Adventures in Asia (10:54) Getting into Writing and Publishing (14:17) Creating One of the First Hacker Conferences (20:18) The Grit Behind Wired Magazine's Success (30:37) The Dot-Com Bust and Why Wired was Split (34:17) The Origin and Power of “1,000 True Fans” (41:18) How a Near-Death Experience Transformed Kevin (47:10) About His Latest Book,  Colors of Asia Kevin Kelly is a writer, photographer, and co-founder of the award-winning Wired magazine, and a former editor and publisher of the Whole Earth Review. He is the co-chair of The Long Now Foundation, which champions long-term thinking, and the creator of the Cool Tools website, which has reviewed tools daily for over 20 years. Kevin is also the author of multiple bestselling books on the future of technology, and his latest book, Colors of Asia, captures the culture of all 35 Asian countries through vivid photography. Connect with Kevin: Kevin's Website: https://kk.org  Kevin's Twitter: https://x.com/kevin2kelly  Resources Mentioned: Kevin's Book, Colors of Asia: A Visual Journey: https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Asia-Journey-Kevin-Kelly/dp/B0FGJ18PG5  Leaves of Grass: The Original 1855 Edition by Walt Whitman: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1449505716  Leap Academy: LeapCon is the #1 Conference for Reinvention, Leadership & Career — a powerful 3‑day experience designed to help you unlock what's next in your career and life.

In this episode, the Ski Moms welcome Chemmy Alcott, a British former World Cup alpine ski racer who competed in all five disciplines and represented Great Britain at four Olympic Games. Growing up in London, Chemmy's journey to elite ski racing is extraordinary, she trained on eight-second dry ski slopes made of plastic "hairbrushes" and at age 10 convinced her parents to let her travel alone to New Zealand for two months of training, a pattern she continued for eight years.Chemmy opens up about skiing at only 80% capacity for eight years due to fear of failure before her breakthrough at Sölden, where she embraced 100% effort and risk-taking. After coming within 1.8 seconds of an Olympic medal at Sochi 2014, her surgeon's warning about potential leg amputation led to her retirement. Now a mother of two boys (ages 8 and 6), she's achieved her childhood dream as presenter of BBC's iconic Ski Sunday and co-founded Carpe Diem Coaching with her husband Dougie, running camps across Europe for ages 6 to 89 focused on building confidence and resilience. She also founded Swiss Mountain Rescue after discovering CBD and meditation eliminated her chronic pain in just two weeks after 10 years of suffering.Resources:Carpe Diem Coaching: https://www.cdcperform.com/Instagram: @chemmyskiBBC Ski SundaySwiss Mountain Rescue (health and wellness brand)Imbrace (compression leggings)Key Quotes:"I always say that I was made to be a ski racer. I got his glutes and her lungsShop the 2025 Ski Moms Holiday Gift Guides here www.theskimoms.co/gift-guides SHOP HEREUse Code SKIMOMS for 15% off all labels. Code is not valid on sale items or stamps. Other restrictions may apply.  Still shopping for the skier or rider in your life?  The Ski Haus has you covered. Stop by the Ski Haus or grab a gift card online — and give the gift of snow this season. They've got locations in Salem, NH and Woburn, and Framingham in MA. Head to skihaus.com  to check store hours and directions. Plan your winter getaway now at VisitUlsterCountyNY.com.

Having a conversation with Carl Greer feels like receiving a masterclass in the architecture of the soul. Here was a successful businessman who, in midlife, answered a profound call to become a Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. In this episode, we dive deep into the powerful synergy between Jungian psychology and shamanism. Carl shares how these paths offer unique tools to access inner wisdom, rewrite the stories that hold us back, and fundamentally change our lives from the inside out. We explore the unseen energies that influence us and practical ways to connect with them for personal transformation TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 Meet Carl Greer: Analyst and Shaman02:49 Carl's Unconventional Path to Purpose06:18 What is Jungian Psychology?09:15 Jung, Freud, and the Spiritual Split12:17 Jungian Therapy vs. Modern Modalities15:07 Listener Support and Ways to Connect19:43 Stories, Energy, and Making Change25:58 Synchronicity and the Nature of Reality28:34 The Calling to Change Your Life32:51 The Transformative Power of Deep Analysis35:45 The Soul's Return to Psychology39:08 Accessing Your Inner Wisdom44:00 Spirituality and Pure Potential45:36 How to Find Carl's Work ABOUT CARL GREERhttps://www.carlgreer.com/ JOIN MY COMMUNITY In The Space Between membership, you'll get access to LIVE quarterly Ask Amy Anything meetings (not offered anywhere else!), discounts on courses, special giveaways, and a place to connect with Amy and other like-minded people. You'll also get exclusive access to other behind-the-scenes goodness when you join! Click here to find out more --> https://shorturl.at/vVrwR Stay Connected: - Instagram - https://tinyurl.com/ysvafdwc- Facebook - https://tinyurl.com/yc3z48v9- YouTube - https://tinyurl.com/ywdsc9vt- Website - https://tinyurl.com/ydj949kt Life, Death & the Space Between Dr. Amy RobbinsExploring life, death, consciousness and what it all means. Put your preconceived notions aside as we explore life, death, consciousness and what it all means on Life, Death & the Space Between.**Brought to you by:Dr. Amy Robbins | Host, Executive ProducerPodcastize.net | Audio & Video Production | Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode of Business Growth Talks, host Mark Hayward sits down with Mike Perlow, an entrepreneur who made a significant pivot from sports broadcasting to creating a thriving video production business. Mike shares his fascinating journey, starting from a high school sports talk show to becoming a sportscaster, and finally establishing Perlo Productions. His story is filled with lessons on leveraging past experience, understanding digital marketing, and the fundamental importance of storytelling in business growth.Mike discusses the unexpected yet organic growth of his company, touching on critical areas like creative leadership and digital strategies that helped him serve big names like Dell and Subaru. He emphasizes the challenges he faced along the way, including learning about business operations on the go and the transition from a micromanager to an innovative leader. Throughout the conversation, Mike offers insights into how businesses can use video content to effectively convey their message, detailing his work with varied clients and the importance of strategic marketing. His transition from broadcasting to entrepreneurship serves as a masterclass in adaptability and foresight, offering listeners valuable insights into scaling and succeeding in business.Key Takeaways:Transitioning Careers: Mike's journey from sportscaster to entrepreneur highlights the importance of adaptability and leveraging past experiences.Power of Storytelling: Effective storytelling in video production can significantly enhance a business's outreach and engagement.Building Strong Teams: Trusting and empowering a team of freelancers has been essential to the growth of Perlo Productions.Client Relationships: Focus on understanding clients' unique needs to create impactful and relevant content.Resilience in Business: Persistence and a positive mindset are key to overcoming the inevitable challenges faced in entrepreneurship.SPONSORS:If you want to set up a call with Christine Campbell Rapin at Clear Acceleration to achieve your business goals of growth and scale go tohttps://book.christinecampbellrapin.com/more-buyers-more-sales?am_id=markhaywardResources:Perlo Productions Website: perloproductions.comLinkedIn: Mike Perlow on LinkedInFacebook: Perlo Productions on FacebookConnective Networking Group: Check out their platform for more networking information and opportunities.Support the showIf you want to watch the full video of this episode go to:https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalksDo you want to be a guest on multiple podcasts as a service go to:www.podcastintroduction.comFind more details about the podcast and my coaching business on:www.businessgrowthtalks.comFind me onLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hayw...Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mjh169183YouTube Shorts - https://www.youtube.com/@markhayward-BizGrowthTalks/shorts

Chris Albro, the CRO of People.ai joins the Surf and Sales podcast. We discuss the challenges of maintaining data quality in CRMs, how to proactively addresses customer concerns around AI, and the generational differences in work ethic and expectations. Chris also shares insights on the evolving sales landscape, the impact of AI, and the importance of empathy and execution.    And the next www.surfandsales.com event is happening in November 2026. #PuraVida

Send us a textA rainy Boston morning set the scene, but the real weather shift happens in the story: an English major boards her first commercial flight to Alaska at 19, discovers how far a duffel and a daring heart can go, and eventually returns to writing through the heat of a private kitchen. We trace Melanie's winding path from private chef to freelance food-and-travel journalist, and how curiosity—not credentials—became the map legend for every bold turn.We dig into the messy art of pitching that school didn't teach well enough, why perfection slowed her down, and how a personal touch can cut through a crowded inbox. Then the narrative dives—literally—into the Galápagos, where a sea lion taught her the power of attention and play, and resurfaces in Iceland with fermented shark, sheep-dung–smoked whiskey, and the kind of hospitality that sticks. Along the way, we unpack travel trends with substance: detours that counter overtourism without diluting wonder, a resurgence of first-person narratives that invite empathy, and multigenerational trips that strengthen family bonds through shared discovery.Closer to home, Melanie opens a notebook of Boston recommendations that skip the obvious, from a lingering tapa night in the Seaport to a moody Beacon Hill hideaway, thermal cycling sessions in Revere, Mass Audubon's overlooked greenways, and a Woburn spot hosting a chestnut festival and a $22 three-course lunch. She shares what she seeks on hosted trips, why perseverance is the freelancer's quiet superpower, and the one dream that keeps resurfacing: flying a fighter jet. If you care about travel that feels honest, food that carries culture and pitching that respects people, you'll find tools, stories and surprises you can use. Enjoy the journey, then tap follow, share with a curious friend, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find us.Connect with Melanie at LinkedIN, Instagram or website. 

Delanie Fischer chats with actor and filmmaker Kit Williamson, best known for Mad Men, Eastsiders, and Unconventional , about the ebbs and flows of a long-term creative career. They dive into the resilience and recommitment required for longevity, navigating big breaks and dead projects, exercising creative agency, and behind-the-scenes insights into filmmaking. Plus: + The Process of Selling a Project vs. Creating a World + Avoiding Perfection Paralysis and Releasing Shame + Repurposing, Financing, and Getting Resourceful Unconventional: https://www.revry.tv/originals/unconventional?srsltid=AfmBOoqpHDsMf__K9un9PxTtwQO4rU5U2HGBxcf4lpN7JgG1bcpS429h Self-Helpless on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/selfhelpless Your Host, Delanie Fischer: https://www.delaniefischer.com EPISODES RELATED TO THIS TOPIC: We Need Your Art! For Health, Community, and More with Amie McNee: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/25b6ee3e/we-need-your-fcking-art-for-health-community-and-more-with-amie-mcnee It's Not Too Late To Start with Jared Champion: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23f7190f/its-not-too-late-to-start-with-jared-champion Q&A: Publishing, Podcasting, and Creative Entrepreneurship with Literary Agent Lindsey Smith and Podcaster Delanie Fischer: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/23bfb9d7/qanda-publishing-podcasting-and-creative-entrepreneurship-with-literary-agent-lindsey-smith-and-podcaster-delanie-fischer Making Less And Living More with Creator of Lore and Lust Karla Nikole: https://www.delaniefischer.com/selfhelplesspodcast/episode/24656068/making-less-and-living-more-with-creator-of-lore-and-lust-karla-nikole Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dentistry is a difficult and demanding profession. But with the right people and the right resources, you can make it rewarding and worthwhile. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Louis Kaufman from Smile Source Chicago to share his journey from his time at Burger King to becoming a successful practice owner. To hear about his incredible path and the lessons he's learned, listen to Episode 944 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Kaufman:Follow Dr. Kaufman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaufmanlouisRegister for the 2025 Smile Source Exchange: https://sstheexchange25.eventscribe.netMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 944: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Never Die Easy by Walter Payton and Don Yaeger: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/128589/never-die-easy-by-walter-payton-with-don-yaegerMain Takeaways:Attend the Smile Source Exchange, not just for the CE but to find your community.Take continuing education. It will play a big role in your life and your practice.Always look ahead to the next year. Be intentional in planning your life.Don't let your current financial burden define your next ten years.Be around and listen to other experienced entrepreneurs.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.0:43 From Burger King to dental school.7:23 After dental school and taking CE.11:18 Purchasing the practice and helping it evolve.15:33 The best business decisions Dr. Kaufman has made.16:59 A week in Dr. Kaufman's life.19:58 The biggest challenges for young dentists today.22:28 Dr. Kaufman's history with Smile Source.28:58 GPO, explained.31:47 The importance of being...

Here's something that might surprise you: Some of the most innovative educational leaders come from unexpected backgrounds.   This week, I'm speaking with Deepali Deshmukh, a school leader whose journey from biochemist to head of school challenges everything we think we know about educational credentials. Her story proves that your unique perspective isn't just valid. It's valuable.   Join us on this episode to discover why your "non-traditional" background might actually be your secret weapon in leadership, and how Deepali transformed her science background into leadership strengths. Her story reveals that the solution to imposter syndrome isn't trying to fit into someone else's shoes - it's bringing your authentic self and unique talents to create something that didn't exist before.   Find the full episode show notes and transcript, click here: https://angelakellycoaching.com/403

What's the real difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist — and how do you know which one you need? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Eric Bender, a psychiatrist, therapist, and media consultant who has worked everywhere from private practice to video game studios. Together we dive into the messy realities of mental health treatment: the truth about psychiatric medication, therapy vs. “med management,” why stigma keeps so many people stuck, and how to know when it's time to seek help. Dr. Bender shares his journey from teaching and social work into psychiatry, what it's really like to balance prescribing with therapy, and how he helps patients navigate shame, fear, and medication side effects. We also explore borderline personality disorder, antidepressant withdrawal, genetic testing, and the art of tailoring treatment to the individual. Plus — his fascinating work consulting on Batman and other characters for media projects. This conversation is honest, practical, and full of insights to help you better understand yourself and your mental health journey. Timestamps (Ask Kati Anything ep. 277) 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Dr. Eric Bender 00:17 – Psychiatry vs. Psychology: What's the Difference? 02:09 – Dr. Bender's Unconventional Path to Becoming a Psychiatrist 07:10 – Working with Children & Parents in Therapy 09:01 – Why He Still Does Therapy (Not Just Medication) 13:16 – Conversations Around Medication & Stigma 17:18 – Antidepressant Withdrawal & Side Effects Explained 23:36 – Treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) 29:48 – Therapy, Medication & Insurance Challenges 35:13 – Should You See a Psychiatrist or a Therapist? 43:47 – Offering Hope & Knowing When to Seek Help 47:31 – Psychiatry Meets Pop Culture: Consulting on Batman & Media 52:14 – How Media Shapes Mental Health Stigma 53:04 – Closing Thoughts My New Book (Pre-Order) Why Do I Keep Doing This? → https://geni.us/XoyLSQ If you've ever felt stuck, this book is for you. I'd be so grateful for your support. Other Books Traumatized → https://geni.us/Bfak0j Are u ok? → https://geni.us/sva4iUY Connect with Dr. Eric Bender YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.ericbender Website: http://www.doctorericbender.com/ Kati's Main YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/katimorton Sponsors (Support the Show!) Mint Mobile — Get 3 months of unlimited premium wireless for just $15/month → https://www.mintmobile.com/kati OneSkin — Target aging on 3 fronts with the OS-01 peptide, antioxidants, and non-nano zinc oxide. Get 15% off with code KATI → https://www.oneskin.co/ Online Therapy (10% off your first month) While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist → https://betterhelp.com/kati Partnerships Nick Freeman | nick@biglittlemedia.co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever wondered why your six-figure degree didn't come with instructions on how to do your taxes, build habits, or not ruin your credit score in your first year out of school, you're not alone. In this episode, I break down the 8 most important things college doesn't teach you and practical ways to finally fill in those gaps.For more go to: www.scottmlynch.comLevel up your life by joining my Patreon where you'll get exclusive content every week and more badass offerings (rips t-shirt in half, Hulk Hogan style, and runs around the room). And/or…Unlock practical and tactical insights on how to master your mindset and optimize your happiness directly to your inbox.If you're a glutton for punishment and want more swift kicks in the mind follow me on social:InstagramYouTubeLeave a review and tell me how I suck so I can stop doing that or you can also tell me about things you like. I'd be okay with that, too.Produced by ya boi.Past guests on The Motivated Mind include Chris Voss, Captain Sandy, Dr. Chris Palmer, Joey Thurman, Jason Harris, Koshin Paley Ellison, Rudy Mawer, Molly Fletcher, Kristen Butler, Hasard Lee, Natasha Graziano, ⁠David Hauser⁠, Cheryl Hunter, Michael Brandt, Heather Moyse, Tim Shriver, and Alan Stein, Jr.

Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Robin Givhan talks with Tonya Mosley about her new book, Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture with Virgil Abloh. It's a powerful look at the life and influence of the late designer, who made history as the first Black American artistic director of menswear at Louis Vuitton. Givhan reveals how Abloh, the son of Ghanaian immigrants and a digital native, shaped by hip hop and skate culture, was able to penetrate fashion's elite barriers and redefine who gets to belong.Also, film critic Justin Chang reviews the summer blockbuster F1 starring Brad Pitt.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Brandon Sanderson is joined by special guest Steve Argyle for this week of Intentionally Blank! The two go over the story of how Steve became the artist he is today (and some of the crazy adventures along the way). See more of Steve's work here! - https://www.steveargyle.comWant to send me something to open?Dragonsteel EntertainmentATTN: AdamP.O Box 698American Fork, UT 84003Get your Wheel of Time updates here with the Bound and Woven newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/brandonsanderson/eye-of-the-world-campaignStay up to date by  following my newsletter: https://brandonsanderson.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7d056bb7596a3e617f82004b2&id=fa68f14db0Interested in signed books and swag? Check here: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/You can also follow me on:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSandersonTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrandSandersonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/?hl=enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mistbornbrandonFrequently asked questions: https://faq.brandonsanderson 

Send us a textStrength isn't the absence of weakness—it's how we transform our challenges into growth. In this riveting conversation with leadership coach and author Becky Schmooke, we explore stoic philosophy as a misunderstood yet powerful tool for navigating life's inevitable obstacles.Becky shares her personal journey of using stoicism to overcome a twenty-year battle with bulimia, developing the STOA framework (Success, Targets, Obstacles/Opportunities, Action steps) that now helps everyone from executives to NFL players and first responders navigate high-pressure situations. Far from the emotionless stereotype, stoicism emerges as a practice of emotional awareness without emotional control."Leadership is a lifestyle, not a job title," Becky emphasizes, challenging conventional hierarchies with her SAFE framework that builds genuine capability rather than superficial "show muscles." Her approach transforms organizations from having "a team and a leader" to fostering "a team of leaders"—a critical distinction for environments where split-second decisions matter.The Japanese art of kintsugi—repairing broken pottery with gold—becomes a powerful metaphor for resilience throughout our discussion. When we acknowledge our breaks rather than hiding them, we become stronger precisely where we were once vulnerable. This principle applies powerfully to trauma recovery, offering a path beyond mere survival to genuine transformation.Whether you're leading a team, recovering from trauma, or simply trying to navigate life's complexities with more grace, Becky's practical frameworks provide immediate, actionable insights. Her husband, a fire captain, uses these same principles during emergency calls, demonstrating their real-world effectiveness under pressure.Ready to choose the handle that holds? Join us for this enlightening conversation about stoicism, leadership, and the art of transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. Find Becky's book "Choose the Handle that Holds" here and connect with her mindfulness retreats at www.beckyschmooke.com.Support the showYouTube Channel For The Podcast

What if the best way to build a high-performing team wasn't through perks or policies, but by telling people the truth? In this episode of The Game Changing Attorney Podcast, HR consultant, speaker, author, and former Netflix Chief Talent Officer Patty McCord joins Michael Mogill to challenge conventional HR thinking and offer a candid take on what truly drives culture, leadership, and high performance. With decades of experience shaping iconic teams in Silicon Valley, Patty unpacks how honesty, accountability, and experimentation can redefine what it means to build a workplace people are proud to be from, not just at. Here's what you'll learn: Why retention is the wrong metric for building great teams — and what matters instead How “telling the truth up front” can eliminate legal issues, improve culture, and drive results What it takes to create a company where high performers thrive and mediocrity doesn't survive If you're ready to ditch outdated practices, build a team of adults who own their impact, and lead with context instead of control, this episode is your blueprint. ---- Show Notes: 00:00 – Introduction: Patty's Unconventional Path into HR 05:06 – The Call That Changed Everything: Joining Netflix at 2 AM 06:40 – Reinventing Work: Cutting What Doesn't Matter 08:06 – Creating a Great Place to Be From 12:00 – Building High-Performance Teams with Radical Clarity 17:18 – Problem Solvers vs. Problem Finders 20:14 – Giving Feedback That Drives Growth 27:11 – Metrics That Matter: P&L Over Perks 34:12 – Preparing for the Future: Do You Have the Right Team? 37:04 – Stop Empowering: Teach How the Business Works 38:29 – The Future of Work Is Now 40:15 – Redefining Leadership Through Context 41:22 – Final Thoughts: Stop Doing Stupid Stuff ---- Links & Resources: Powerful: Building a Culture of Freedom and Responsibility by Patty McCord How Netflix Reinvented HR, HBR Article by Patty McCord Netflix Culture Deck “Google Ideological Echo Chamber” memo by James Damore ---- Do you love this podcast and want to see more game changing content? Subscribe to our YouTube channel. ---- Past guests on The Game Changing Attorney Podcast include David Goggins, John Morgan, Alex Hormozi, Randi McGinn, Kim Scott, Chris Voss, Kevin O'Leary, Laura Wasser, John Maxwell, Mark Lanier, Robert Greene, and many more. ---- If you enjoyed this episode, you may also like: 352 — Susan Fowler — Why Everything You Know About Motivating Your Team Might Be Completely Wrong 328 — Sherry Stewart Deutschmann — Transform Your Business with Bold, People-First Leadership