Recent Updates
1580: Resilience After Stroke and Heart Failure with Jonathan Scott Bogner
From surviving two strokes, heart failure, and a life-saving transplant to producing a powerful PBS documentary series, Jonathan Scott Bognar shares a raw and inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. In this episode, Jonathan opens up about losing his ability to speak due to aphasia, rebuilding his career from the ground up, and how he transitioned from Hollywood film production into meaningful storytelling that educates and serves others.
We dive into his upcoming documentary Alive But Not Well, which explores major diseases affecting people as they age through the lens of patients, caregivers, doctors, and advocates. Jonathan explains how his own health journey sparked the idea, and why caregiving is one of the most overlooked yet universal human experiences. He also breaks down his philosophy of “rigorous optimism” and “rugged flexibility,” showing how mindset, persistence, and adaptability are critical not just in business but in surviving life itself.
If you’ve ever faced adversity, struggled with reinvention, or wondered how to turn pain into purpose, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your limits and remind you to “die with memories, not dreams.”
Quotes:
“Everything in life is about how you view what’s happening to you—you have to choose a positive attitude, even when it’s hard.”
“In order to succeed, you have to be rigid in your commitment but flexible in your approach—that’s where real progress happens.”
“Rigorous optimism means you don’t always feel positive—you fight to be positive anyway.”
Contact Details:
Jonathan Scott Bogner Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:23 — 59.8MB) | Embed
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1579: Kabbalistic Biology and the Hidden Dimensions of Life with Dr. Michael Kosoy
From zoonotic infectious diseases to Kabbalistic metaphysics, Dr. Michael Kosoy argues that modern biology is missing something critical: the invisible dimensions of life that our instruments can’t measure, but that still shape health, disease, and ecosystems. A retired but still-active CDC infectious disease researcher with over 200 scientific publications, Dr. Kosoy joins us to unpack his book “The 10 Dimensions of Kabbalistic Biology (Abridged Edition)” and explain why more data doesn’t always mean more knowledge sometimes, it actually increases uncertainty.
We explore how his decades at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, his work on zoonotic diseases, and his long-term study of Kabbalah came together into a new framework he calls Kabbalistic biology. Dr. Kosoy explains why traditional, dualistic thinking in science breaks down when we confront real-world complexity (like the pandemic), how invisible structures, hierarchies, and “unknowns” still follow patterns, and why we need better tools for orienting ourselves in a fast-changing, paradox-filled world. If you’re curious about holistic science, invisible biology, microbiomes, pandemics, and the intersection of spirituality and rigorous research, this conversation offers a practical, and surprisingly grounded toolbox for thinking differently about life itself.
Quotes:
“The more data and more information we collect, the more uncertainty we create.”
“Instead of useless debates between reductionists and holists, I propose a system for orientation between those two extremes.”
“First dimension is what I call segmentation to unification—it’s your choice as an investigator to select how complex you want to see the system.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Dr. Michael Kosoy on Facebook
Dr. Michael Kosoy on Amazon
Dr. Michael Kosoy Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 22:34 — 31.5MB) | Embed
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1578: Cybersecurity and AI for Small Business Growth with Ephraim Epstein
From small chiropractic clinics to multi-location hotels, my guest Ephraim Epstein of Fit Solutions (fitsolutions.biz) reveals how modern cybercriminals operate like full-time sales teams prospecting, nurturing, and “closing” attacks on businesses that mistakenly think they’re too small to be a target. We dig into real-world ransomware stories, why Office 365 and Google Workspace email accounts are the #1 breach vector, and why SMS-based two-factor authentication is no longer enough to keep your company safe. Ephraim explains how 24/7 security monitoring, penetration testing, and smarter authentication can prevent the kind of total business shutdowns he sees far too often.
We also explore how AI is changing the game not just for attackers, but for defense and operations. Ephraim shares how his team uses AI to reduce labor costs, automate SMS conversations that feel human, and deliver concierge-level experiences at scale, like hotel texting systems that book spa appointments, schedule room cleanings, and answer questions with a 74% engagement rate. Finally, he opens up about the entrepreneurial lessons learned from a failed CrossFit gym, why “side hustles” often backfire, and how complementary revenue streams (IT → cybersecurity → AI) helped Fit Solutions grow while staying focused on what they do best. If you’re a business owner wondering whether your systems are really safe and how AI can actually improve your bottom line, not just sound cool, this conversation will give you a practical, story-driven roadmap.
Quotes:
“Opportunities are wrapped in problems—whenever I find a problem, I ask where the opportunity is and how I can turn it into an advantage.”
“Side hustles are not really great—if you chase a second revenue stream that doesn’t complement your main business, both the side hustle and your core business will suffer.”
“Focus on the main thing, become amazing at it, and crush it—then add complementary revenue streams that feed and strengthen your core, instead of chasing random ideas that pull you in ten directions.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Ephraim Epstein on LinkedIn
Ephraim Epstein Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:52 — 23.7MB) | Embed
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1577: College Planning, Scholarships, and Teen Success Strategies with Shellee Howard
College admission doesn’t have to be terrifying, unaffordable, or a giant mystery. In this episode, global educational consultant Shellee Howard of College Ready joins Robert Plank to break down how families can navigate college admissions strategically instead of emotionally. Shellee explains why “no one gets into college anymore” and “there’s no scholarship money” are myths, how her Class of 2026 students earned $10.3M+ in scholarships with 100% college acceptance, and why there is a “perfect-fit college” for every student (including tuition‑free options).
You’ll hear a candid discussion on the truth about college vs. trade school, why “influencer” is not a career plan without real skills, and how AI is reshaping which majors and careers will still exist in four years. Most importantly, Shellee shares her process for helping students answer the hardest question, “Who are you?” So they can package themselves, stand out beyond GPA and test scores, and use college as a stepping stone to a meaningful future instead of an expensive dead end.
Quotes:
“Teach your child to love reading and to think for themselves, and they will be able to learn anything they ever want to learn for the rest of their life.”
“College is a stepping stone to their future, not the end game. When students know who they are and what they’re good at, the path actually gets easier.”
“Do what you love and the money will come. I’m not talking about a hobby—I’m talking about a career you deeply enjoy. People ask me when I’m going to retire; why would I ever retire when I love inspiring teenagers?”
Contact Details:
Connect with Shellee Howard on Facebook
Connect with Shellee Howard on LinkedIn
Shellee Howard Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:03 — 23.0MB) | Embed
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1576: Spiritual Awakening and New Earth Living with Bo Lockwood
Visionary author and conscious leadership guide Bo Lockwood joins Robert Plank to share how a series of near-death experiences, a dark divorce, and a massive brain bleed awakened him to his true purpose: helping people “always be bold” and step into their power.
Bo explains what New Earth Civilization really is (a state of consciousness, not a movement), how he’s gathering 1,000 change makers through PrincetonGreen.org, and the story behind his book Essence: A Gateway to Expansive Living, co-created with his 93‑year‑old spiritual mentor, Anne Emerson.
You’ll learn about self-awareness, fear vs. fearlessness, letting go of attachment, and how spiritual entrepreneurs and business leaders can drive real, systemic change.
Quotes:
“Everything happening outside is a reflection of what’s going on inside of us. Life is a mirror.”
“Unfortunately, we as humans tend to grow through struggle. It’s like a dandelion trying to break through asphalt—once it does, it begins to really bloom, and that’s how we grow too.”
“It’s not fear no or fear none—it’s fear less. We always experience fear; it’s part of the human experience. The difference is that I feel the fear and do it anyway.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Bo Lockwood on Facebook
Connect with Bo Lockwood on Facebook
Bo Lockwood on Amazon
Bo Lockwood Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 34:03 — 27.8MB) | Embed
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1575: AI Visibility and Empathic Marketing for Better Rankings with Mike Caldwell
From living off the grid to helping businesses get recommended by AI, Mike Caldwell (The Marketing Medic) explains how to win in an AI-first search world without obsessing over traditional SEO. He shares how his small Mad Trapper trail race series outranks huge competitors inside AI, thanks to clear, empathic messaging that speaks to people’s difficulties, desires, dreads, and dreams.
We break down Mike’s AI Visibility Stack Message, Mechanics, Mentions, Match and why clarity beats cleverness in copywriting for both humans and AI. You’ll hear how things like schema, consistent branding, and question-based headings help AI truly “get” what you do, plus a wild story of how one popular business was basically invisible to AI because of a single WordPress performance plugin.
If you want AI to recommend you (not just your bigger competitors), this episode gives you a practical roadmap that blends empathic marketing, simple technical fixes, and a human-first approach summarized in Mike’s rule: “Sell unto others as you would have them sell unto you.”
Quotes:
“Clarity beats cleverness. You don't need flowery copywriting—you need direct, clear copywriting. That's what your audience is going to respond to, and that is also what AI is going to understand as well.”
“SEO is about tweaking the algorithm. AI visibility is about the personal side—how clearly you speak to real people’s problems and desires.”
“You can have tons of five-star reviews and great content, and still be invisible to AI if the mechanics are wrong. One plugin can literally erase 95% of your site from AI’s view.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Mike Caldwell on Facebook
Connect with Mike Caldwell on Instagram
Connect with Mike Caldwell on LinkedIn
Mike Caldwell on Amazon
Mike Caldwell official website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:19 — 22.4MB) | Embed
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1574: Executive Abundance Framework for Thought Leaders with Mitchell Levy
From redefining “abundance” for CEOs to reframing how AI changes thought leadership, my guest Dr. Mitchell Levy, PhD, shares a bold and practical framework for building a legacy that goes far beyond quarterly results. We talk about how most leaders mistakenly equate abundance with money and resources alone and why true executive abundance means bringing happiness and success to five stakeholder groups: family, employees, customers, investors, and community. Mitchell explains how over-focusing on investor returns and short-term metrics creates “short-termism,” and how shifting what you measure can completely change how you lead, hire, and make decisions. He also opens up about the intense grind of finishing his PhD dissertation, the difficulty of unwinding after months of 12–16 hour days, and what it looks like to actually live the principles he teaches.
Mitchell walks us through his Executive Abundance Engine clarity, credibility, consistency, and commitment and why his research shows that 98% of thought leaders lack the clarity to state their purpose in three to nine words. We explore how AI has made thought leadership ubiquitous, why trying to hoard ideas behind NDAs is obsolete, and how showing up consistently across LinkedIn, your website, podcasts, and AI search results is now essential to being seen as a credible authority. Along the way, Mitchell shares vivid stories from publishing 750+ books, sitting on a public company board, and coaching fast-growing CEOs who want their current success not to undercut their long-term impact. If you’ve ever worried about AI “stealing” your ideas, felt tension between serving investors vs. everyone else, or wondered how to align your message, brand, and behavior into a coherent legacy, this conversation will give you a clear, visual, and deeply human roadmap for leading with abundance in every part of your ecosystem.
Quotes:
“Executive abundance is bringing happiness and success to five different stakeholder groups. If you’re running a company, your job is to make more than just the investors happy.”
“A leader’s legacy is felt in the success of their stakeholders. Legacy is not something that comes tomorrow. Legacy is something that is felt today.”
“If we take care of the employees, they’ll take care of the customers. If we take care of the customers, they’ll take care of the investors. In Executive Abundance, investors are fourth, not first.”
Contact Details:
Mitchell Levy on Instagram
Mitchell Levy on LinkedIn
Mitchell Levy on Amazon
Mitchell Levy official website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:31 — 25.8MB) | Embed
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1573: Close the 18-Inch Gap and Follow Your Dreams with Edwin Soler
Are you stuck in a life that looks “fine” on the outside but feels wrong on the inside?
Do you overthink every decision, stay in your comfort zone, and quietly wonder, “Is this really it for me?”
Edwin Soler, a Dream Realization Partner, life coach, author, and podcast host of “Closing the 18 Inch Gap.” After losing a 27-year career just three months after publishing his book, Edwin rebuilt his life and business from the ground up. Now he helps people close the 18-inch gap between their head (logic, fear, overthinking) and their heart (dreams, purpose, calling).
If you’ve been thinking about life coaching, feel stuck in your career, or want to expand your comfort zone without blowing up your life, this episode shows you what’s possible.
Quotes:
"You can’t think your way into your dreams. You have to live from the heart that imagined them."
“Coaching is about awareness. The answers may already be in you—you just need the right questions to draw them out.”
"We do a lot of comparisons. We compare our backstage to someone’s front stage. People say, ‘I’m an overnight success’—but it took 15 years to get there."
Contact Details:
Connect with Edwin Soler on Facebook
Connect with Edwin Soler on LinkedIn
Edwin Soler on Amazon
Edwin Soler Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:07 — 21.5MB) | Embed
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1572: Find Purpose in Retirement with Sharon Rolph
From childhood trauma and feeling invisible to becoming the self-described “Queen of Courage,” Sharon Rolph has lived what psychologists call post-traumatic growth and now helps retirees do the same. In this episode, Sharon shares how she transformed early abuse, lifelong invisibility, and a late-in-life career shift into a mission: helping retirees and baby boomers rediscover their spark, step into their essence, and realize that retirement is not the beginning of the end, but the start of a new, deeply meaningful chapter.
We dig into the ideas behind her book “Fresh Courage in Retirement: Finding Purpose, Essence and Fulfillment,” and why she believes your “invisible assets” your personality, values, and what makes your heart sing matter more than your bank account. Sharon explains how unhealed trauma can still be driving today’s leaders and managers, why leading from love instead of fear changes everything, and how simple practices like listing 20 things you love to do, clarifying your core values, and noticing what frustrates you can point directly to your purpose.
Sharon also shares practical tools and real-life stories: using art blocks and quotes to anchor new beliefs, designing a retirement that feels like an adventure instead of a slow decline, and approaching your later years with curiosity, experimentation, and service. Whether you’re newly retired, thinking ahead to retirement, or trying to heal from your own past while building a better future, this conversation offers a gentle but powerful roadmap for finding meaning, courage, and joy after 60.
Quotes:
“What makes me stand out is I've learned a new term… there's post-traumatic growth. I'm the model of post-traumatic growth.”
“Your vocation is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet.”
“Never underestimate the power of a planted seed. A seed has to have a harvest, and I'm on tippy-toe expecting a marvelous harvest.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Sharon Rolph on LinkedIn
Sharon Rolph on Amazon
Sharon Rolph official website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 32:59 — 27.0MB) | Embed
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1571: Whiskey Tasting for Beginners with Patrick Sanaghan
From dusty gift bottles on a home bar to a three-year journey tasting 365 whiskeys, co‑author Patrick Sanaghan turned casual curiosity into a structured, joyful experiment in flavor, learning, and humility. In this episode, we talk about his new book “A Year of Drinking Whiskey: Two Old Geezers and a Great Bartender Sailing Down Whiskey River,” co‑written with Tom Nicoletto and bartender Julius Facenda, and how three non‑experts approached whiskey like a long-term learning project instead of a snobby insiders’ club.
Patrick explains why this book is intentionally written from a beginner’s perspective, what he learned about the real relationship between price and quality, and why “trust your taste buds” became the core lesson of the whole adventure. We dive into how they structured their tasting process (including grading and always tasting neat), why environment matters so much (smells, glasses, ice, and timing), and how simple habits like slowing down, letting a pour breathe, and sipping instead of gulping can completely change how you experience whiskey.
We also explore the human side of the project: how long-term experiments build curiosity and discipline, why different people can experience the same whiskey in totally different ways, and what it means to enjoy life’s “electives” without getting lost in pretension or overindulgence. Whether you’re whiskey-curious, a casual drinker, or someone staring at a shelf of bottles wondering where to start, this conversation gives you a friendly, practical starting point and permission to ignore the hype and follow your own palate.
Quotes:
“Trust your taste buds. You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy great whiskey.”
“Don’t be intimidated by the labels or the price tags—the best whiskey is the one you actually like.”
“It’s meant to be sipped and enjoyed, not gulped. Slow down and let the experience unfold.”
Contact Details:
Connect with Pat Sanaghan on LinkedIn
Pat Sanaghan on Amazon
Pat Sanaghan Official Website
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:25 — 22.5MB) | Embed
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1570: NLP Influence Secrets to Reprogram Your Mind with David Snyder
From mastering body language to reprogramming your subconscious for confidence, influence, and rapid change, my guest, Dr. David Snyder, shares practical NLP tools to take control of your internal state and external results. We talk about why everything humans do is driven by feelings, how posture and breathing are the fastest ways to shift your emotional state, and how power posing and playfulness can dramatically speed up learning and habit change especially in a post-COVID, highly digital world where connection, validation, and trust are the real competitive edge.
David explains how NLP maps the “code” of your subjective experience so you can model top performers, uncover the hidden beliefs driving your behavior, and install more useful internal programs. You’ll learn how to communicate more effectively, make people feel deeply understood (without manipulation), and upgrade your confidence and productivity in minutes before a sales call, Zoom meeting, presentation, or tough conversation. If you’ve ever known what to do but struggled to do it, this episode gives you practical, fast-acting tools you can use right away.
Quotes:
“Everything you do is driven by a feeling—change the feeling, and you change the behavior.”
“The fastest way to change your mind is to first change your posture and your breathing.”
“People don’t just want information; they want to feel seen, understood, and validated.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:21 — 21.1MB) | Embed
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1569: Find Strength and Purpose After Adversity with Carlos Perez
From stage four cancer survival to rebuilding identity, purpose, and execution under extreme pressure, my guest Carlos Perez has dedicated his life to one mission: helping people recover clarity and strength after crisis. In this episode, I talk with Carlos about how he rebuilt his life after multiple cancer diagnoses and transplants, and how he now teaches professionals to regain focus, emotional control, and direction when life feels uncertain. We also explore what most high performers get wrong about adversity—how they stay stuck in survival mode long after the crisis is over, why avoiding discomfort delays real healing, and how small daily actions can steadily rebuild identity and confidence over time.
Carlos breaks down the difference between surviving and truly rebuilding, why emotional strength matters more than motivation, and how clarity often comes from facing discomfort instead of avoiding it. You’ll hear how he went from hospital recovery beds to becoming a “rebuild architect,” how speaking and coaching became part of his healing journey, and why helping others became his new mission. We also talk about fear, procrastination, and how simple actions like writing one page, having one conversation, or taking one step forward can completely change the direction of a life.
Quotes:
Don’t wait for tomorrow. The time is now. You are stronger than you think.”
“You can either drown in your problems or break them down one by one.”
“Strength is already inside you—you just have to use it.”
Resources:
- Carlos Perez speaks
- Carlos Perez on Linkedin
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:51 — 21.5MB) | Embed
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1568: Curiosity and Human Purpose from The Book of Odd Awakening with Todd Leblanc
From space‑lab clean rooms to the inner universe of human awareness, my guest Todd R. LeBlanc has spent decades exploring both the frontiers of technology and the depths of consciousness. In this episode, we talk about his journey from seasoned space‑lab manager to author of The Book of Odd and his new project, The Book of Odd: Awakening. Todd explains why our greatest “technology” isn’t rockets or AI, but awareness itself—our ability to live in the present moment, ask better questions, and recognize that “right now” is the only place we ever have any agency. We dig into what most people get wrong about time, the anthropic principle and our role as conscious observers, and why cultivating curiosity, gratitude, and critical thinking is more powerful than chasing status or stuff.
You’ll hear how Todd structures his days around meditation and writing before he gives any energy to his day job, why he believes we should “give our best self to ourselves” first, and how simple habits like journaling, reading, and daily reflection can lead to a quiet but profound awakening. We talk about seeing hidden wonder in everyday things—from toilets and soccer balls to the Panama Canal and public libraries—how to protect yourself from misinformation by strengthening your own mind, and why he thinks we’re each just one line in a much larger language of existence carried through our DNA and culture. If you’re ready to become more present, more curious, and more intentional with your one “flicker” of time, this conversation will give you both inspiration and concrete first steps.
Resources:
- Todd R. LeBlanc on Linkedin
- The Book of Odd
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:54 — 37.7MB) | Embed
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1567: Core Strength Plan for Back and Shoulder Pain with Phil Ross
From Navy SEALs and top‑ranked wrestlers to desk‑bound professionals in constant pain, my guest Master Phil Ross has spent his career on one mission: fix what most fitness programs miss—your back, shoulders, and “hidden core.” In this episode, I talk with Phil about how he helps people avoid unnecessary surgery, rebuild strength after injury, and stay mobile and powerful well into their 70s and beyond. We get into what most people get wrong about back pain, why devices and quick fixes rarely solve the root issue, and how deep support muscles like the multifidus, erector spinae, and transverse abdominis actually protect your spine. Phil breaks down the difference between flexibility and mobility, why your “cylinder of power” matters more than visible abs, and how five to ten minutes a day can radically shift your back and shoulder health.
You’ll hear how Phil’s “Get Off Your Back” and Body Bell Method programs help everyone from high school wrestlers to Special Forces operators stay strong and pain free, why his elite wrestling team has zero shoulder harnesses while competitors are taped up, and how a 75‑year‑old client now performs weighted Turkish get‑ups. We also talk about motivation, removing the “dread factor” from workouts, and how to reframe exercise as small, fun “exercise snacks” that fit into a busy day.
Quotes:
“People say they don’t have time to train, but you only have one body. When you take care of your body, your mind and your spirit follow.”
“You don’t need a pill, a stimulation device, or a quick fix. Strength, mobility, and proper alignment are your first line of defense.”
“Shoulda, woulda, coulda don’t add up to one little word: did. Now it’s your time to do it.”
Resources:
- Phil Ross on Linkedin
- philross.com
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:53 — 21.7MB) | Embed
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1566: The AI-Ready Human, Future-Proof Your Career with Paul Slater
From early days of bulky PCs under desks to two decades inside Microsoft, my guest Paul Slater has had a front row seat to every major tech shift—and now he helps leaders face the most disruptive one yet: AI. In this episode, I talk with Paul about how AI is not just a tool, but a new “team member” that forces us to rethink work, skill, and strategy. We get into why AI adoption feels so unstable and fast, how to stay relevant when the tech changes every three months, and why your real moat now is human traits like resilience, adaptability, and better judgment—not code or features alone.
You’ll hear how Paul sees AI reshaping code, software moats, and whole industries, why “vibe code” and new dev tools mean almost any SaaS can face a clone or a rival in a weekend, and how his 90‑day “AI Ready Human” approach helps people move from anxious user to strategic partner with AI. We also go into his failure story with his startup Billion Minds, what he learned about mission drift and hard shutdown calls, and how that experience now fuels his work with companies that want to be AI ready at both the human and org level. If you are a founder, leader, or pro who wants to stay valuable in a BANI world—brittle, anxious, non‑linear, incomprehensible—this episode will help you see how to match AI power with human skill, culture, and better choices.
Quotes:
AI is not here to replace top performers—it exposes the ones who never learned how to think.”
“Any moat that rests on software alone is weak now; with new AI tools, a rival can build a better version of your app in a weekend.”
“The only honest answer to ‘Where is your business in three years?’ is ‘I have no idea’—so your real edge is people and systems built for constant change.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 36:06 — 29.1MB) | Embed
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1565: How Black Menswear Turns Style to Power and Profit with NeAndre Broussard
From sharp suits and street flash mobs to global media features, my guest NeAndre Broussard has spent his life on one mission: change the way the world sees Black men and the way Black men see themselves. In this episode, I talk with NeAndre, the founder of Black Menswear, about how a simple idea a network of Black men in suits turned into a movement, a media force, and a business. We get into why powerful visuals can do what speeches and debates often can’t, how intentional media reshapes narratives about Black men, and how community and culture can sit at the center of a real, profitable brand.
You’ll hear how NeAndre’s viral flash mob photo shoots started, why he focused on joy, excellence, and visibility instead of trauma, and how Black Menswear grew from a creative idea into a platform for partnerships, revenue, and opportunity. We also talk about what it takes to lead a movement while still paying the bills, how he thinks about brand, community, and profit, and the mindset shifts Black men and allies can make to support this kind of change. If you’re a founder, creator, or just someone who cares about how stories about Black men get told, this episode will help you see how image, media, and community can work together to build both legacy and income.
Quotes:
“One flash mob photo shoot can do more for a young Black boy’s self-image than a hundred debates about stereotypes.”
“When you control the image, you shift the narrative. Once the narrative moves, opportunity follows.”
“We don’t just wear suits we rewrite the script on what it means to be a Black man.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:48 — 40.9MB) | Embed
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1564: Practical Roadmap to 100 Percent Clean Energy Worldwide with Mark Z. Jacobson
From smoggy San Diego tennis courts to shaping the Green New Deal, my guest Mark Z. Jacobson has spent his life answering one question: How do we actually fix air pollution and climate change? In this episode, I talk with the Stanford professor and director of the Atmosphere/Energy Program about why we don’t need miracle technologies; we just need to deploy the clean solutions that already work. You’ll hear why many “solutions” like carbon capture, blue hydrogen, biofuels, and new nuclear are expensive distractions, how wind, water, and solar can reliably power the grid 100%, and why electrifying everything (cars, heating, cooking, industry) slashes both energy use and deaths from air pollution.
Mark also walks me through real-world data from 150+ country-level transition plans, his own 100% renewable home, and why the biggest barrier now isn’t technology, it’s politics, misinformation, and lack of focus. If you’re a founder, policymaker, or just a concerned citizen wondering whether we’re doomed or if the solutions are real, this episode will help you see what actually works, what doesn’t, and how you and I can both help accelerate the transition.
Quotes:
“We don’t need miracle technologies to solve climate change, we need the courage to deploy the solutions we already have.”
“Every year we delay the transition to clean energy, seven and a half million more people die from air pollution. Waiting is not neutral, it’s deadly.”
“This isn’t a technology problem anymore; it’s a focus problem. When we ignore the distractions and double down on wind, water, and solar, a 100% clean energy world becomes inevitable.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 34:28 — 47.3MB) | Embed
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1563: Understanding Transgender Identity and Workplace Inclusion with Wendy Cole
From childhood repression and medical gatekeeping to living authentically and educating others, Wendy Cole has walked the transgender journey in a way few have and she’s turned that lived experience into a powerful force for change. As a gender diversity consultant, speaker, and co‑host of the podcast Demystifying the Transgender Journey, Wendy helps organizations, communities, and leaders understand what it really means to be born transgender and how to create environments where everyone can belong.
In this episode, you’ll hear how early rejection and threats of institutionalization shaped Wendy’s life, what finally made transition possible in her 60s, and why she believes gender is “between the ears, not the legs.” You’ll learn how clear, compassionate education can replace fear with understanding, why focusing on the “60% in the middle” creates the biggest social impact, and how organizations can better support transgender and LGBTQ+ employees, customers, and community members.
Quotes:
“Gender is between the ears, not the legs your body is just the costume, not the character.” – Wendy Cole
“I didn’t transition to become someone else; I transitioned so the world could finally see who I’ve always been.” – Wendy Cole
“The most radical act a transgender person can take isn’t changing their body; it’s refusing to be ashamed of who they are.” – Wendy Cole
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 45:51 — 63.0MB) | Embed
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1562: After-Sales Excellence Driving Customer Growth with Nigel Woodall
In this episode, you’ll hear why most companies obsess over new customers while quietly losing profitable existing ones, how to build simple after-sales processes that don’t require massive new budgets, and why empathy and listening are still the most powerful “technology” in your business. Nigel also shares common recurring mistakes he sees in SMEs like deleting unhandled inquiries every day and how a few low-cost changes can dramatically improve retention, margins, and morale.
If you’re a founder, owner, or leader at a small or medium-sized business who feels things are “not performing as well as they should,” this episode will show you how to plug the leaks, protect your revenue, and make after sales a core part of your growth strategy instead of an overlooked niche.
Quotes:
“You don’t need more leads“After sales isn’t a niche it’s the moment every customer decides whether to stay or leave.” – Nigel Woodall
“If you’re deleting inquiries, you’re deleting revenue and training customers to buy from someone else.” – Nigel Woodall
''You need to stop throwing today’s opportunities in the bin.” – Nigel Woodall
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:01 — 39.8MB) | Embed
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1561: Create New Retirement Income Locating Unclaimed Assets with David Church
From recovering $71 million in “forgotten” money to turning everyday workers into six‑figure earners, David Church is the guy people call when they’ve hit a financial wall and need a real alternative to traditional retirement plans and side hustles. As the founder of Surplus Institute, David teaches a simple, repeatable system for locating surplus and unclaimed funds often tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars that rightfully belong to homeowners and everyday citizens, but are trapped behind red tape and confusing government processes.
You’ll hear how David helps over 50 and especially over 60 professionals replace their income, why banks and governments have little incentive to push this money back to its owners, and how you can build a business helping people claim what’s theirs without needing prior real estate or legal experience.
Quotes:
“Clarity turns hidden money into real money.” – David Church
“Follow up is where the big checks live.” – David Church
“Learn one market, master one system, replace your income.” – David Church
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:57 — 42.5MB) | Embed
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1560: Why Buyers Say No, Use AI and Story to Win Deals with Maury Rogow
From de-confusing buyers to selling your superpower in an AI world, Maury Rogow is the strategist companies call when their “sales problem” is really a storytelling problem. As the author of Why Buyers Say No, Maury shows entrepreneurs and marketers how to stop blending in, break free from price wars, and build recurring revenue by asking the right questions, crafting epic stories, and leveraging emotional triggers. You’ll hear why jargon kills deals, how to discover your superpower, and why using AI for content is only part of the solution clarity is what makes you truly wealthy.
Maury also shares how Hollywood storytelling and high-tech sales taught him to craft compelling narratives that convert prospects into loyal customers. If you’re a founder, marketer, or business leader struggling to stand out in a crowded market, this episode will help you unlock your uniqueness, build trust, and close bigger deals without discounting.
Quotes:
“AI can make content cheap, but clarity can make you wealthy.” – Maury Rogow
“Most companies don’t lose because of product they lose because of confusion.” – Maury Rogow
“Your story is your superpower. Find what makes you unique and stand out.” – Maury Rogow
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 17:43 — 24.3MB) | Embed
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1559: Fractional CFO for Seven and Eight Figure Businesses with Rob te Braake
I used to run my business feeling like I was flying blind with the numbers. In this episode, I sit down with Rob from Finance Insight Matters, a fractional CFO who helps seven and eight-figure online businesses turn messy financials into real growth. We talk about the finance hierarchy of needs, simplifying accounting, and using AI the right way to make smarter decisions.
Rob shares his journey from elite banking to building clean tech ventures in China and the lessons he learned about keeping things simple, focusing on profit, and knowing when to double down or move on. He also gives practical advice on cleaning up your books, preparing your business for growth or exit, and why transparency with your CFO or accountant matters. If you want to finally get control of your finances and scale with confidence, this episode is for you.
Quotes:
“Accounting is too important to leave to accountants alone your business decisions depend on a clean, reliable source of truth.”
“Focus on what you can control. Simplify your finances, your systems, and your strategy and the possibilities for growth multiply.”
“In business, go all in or get out. Double down on what works, or redirect your time to what will actually succeed.
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:27 — 36.3MB) | Embed
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1558: Double Your Business Exit Without Debt or Equity with Marc Adams
From helping business owners “keep more of what they earn” to doubling their company’s value in months, Marc Adams is the expert founders call when they’re serious about exiting on their terms. As founder of Acquisitions for You and author of Secrets to 10X Your Business and Cashing Out Tax Free, he shows entrepreneurs how to avoid equity dilution, bypass debt, and maximize the payout from a sale. You’ll hear why most business owners leave 30–50% of their wealth on the table, how to prepare your company to be sellable without disruption, and why starting early is the key to keeping more of your legacy. Marc also shares how he turned personal adversity into a mission to help the “9 out of 10” business owners stuck in the broken system of exits.
If you’re an entrepreneur, founder, or business owner planning a future exit, this episode will help you think bigger, keep more of your hard-earned value, and start building a roadmap to a truly profitable sale.
Quotes:
“Most business owners leave half their payday on the table without even realizing it.” – Marc Adams
“You can double the value of your business without taking on debt or giving away equity.” – Marc Adams
“The real question isn’t what you sell your business for it’s how much actually goes in your bank.” – Marc Adams
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:44 — 43.6MB) | Embed
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1557: Poetry, Freedom, and 1970s Counterculture Life with WL Gertz
From shaping New York’s underground poetry scene in the 1970s to transforming travel, memory, and history into haunting verse, WL Gertz is the poet readers turn to when they want art that survives the moment. As co‑founder of Dreams magazine, he helped define the Beat generation ethos spontaneous writing, anti‑materialism, jazz rhythms, Eastern philosophy, and personal liberation. Decades later, he channels a lifetime of adventures into his two poetry collections, Broken Dreams and Land of Forgotten Fish.
You’ll hear how decades of global travel from sleeping in European hostels to attending Woodstock shaped his worldview, why travel is a confidence and character builder, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can expand your mind. WL also shares how the digital age is reviving interest in the Beats, making music, poetry, and art more accessible than ever. He reflects on what makes poetry “good,” how stream of consciousness writing captures the complexity of life, and why publishing fuels continued creativity.
Quotes:
“Travel is the ultimate teacher you leave as a boy and return as a grown man.”
“Poetry isn’t about being obvious; it’s about stirring the mind and surviving time.”
“If it feels good, do it life is too short for hesitation and regrets.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 24:02 — 33.0MB) | Embed
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1556: Stop Self-Sabotage and Take Control of Your Life with Mindset Coach Kevin Voisin
From waking up “sleeping giants” across five continents to building a new kind of school for the AI era, Kevin Voisin is the coach leaders call when their “mindset problem” is really a radical honesty problem. As Coach of Coaches and co‑creator of Apogee Strong micro‑schools, he shows entrepreneurs how to stop lying to themselves, break out of self‑sabotage, and operate as the force of nature they already are. You’ll hear why most “personal development” advice is fake, how to recognize when you’re at rock bottom and rock top, and why saying “I don’t know why this keeps happening” is almost always a lie. Kevin unpacks why perfection is a horizon you can never reach (but still need), how to live powerfully imperfect, and how to use AI as the “tractor of the mind” instead of a threat to your livelihood.
Kevin also shares how he thinks about parenting and education in a world where knowledge alone is no longer power only what you produce with it. If you’re an entrepreneur, parent, or emerging leader who secretly feels like an impostor despite your wins, this episode will help you reclaim choice, embrace discomfort, and build a life and business that match who you really are.
Quotes:
“You’re not a lost floatie in the ocean you’re a force of nature.” – Kevin Voisin
“Excellence is achievable. Perfection is a lie.” – Kevin Voisin
“Most people don’t have a self‑sabotage problem; they have a honesty problem with themselves.” – Kevin Voisin
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:20 — 36.2MB) | Embed
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