Breaking the Financial Ceiling: How Your ‘Deserve Level’ Is Holding You Back

Level Up Business

36:16

DANMMMMM…Have I got a show for you! First, a lot of Sister Wives tea - new rumors have surfaced Janelle Brown is leaving the show. Plus, Gabe Brown gives a life update after losing and tragically finding his brother Garrison dead. Sadly, Garrison took his own life in March 2024. Then we head over to discuss the new Welcome To Plathville tea. The first pictures of Micah Plath have surfaced after being beat up by his brother Issac and it doesn’t look good for the future of his modeling career. Lastly, we discuss the latest in the Justin Baldoni v Blake Lively case, Justin is back on social media and it was the perfect social media return. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Open and new Sister Wives news 00:05:43 - Janelle Brown leaving the show? Sister Wives Closet is officially closed 00:12:45 - A new pic of Micah Plath’s broken nose has surfaced 00:18:18 - Justin Baldoni back on social media and Taylor Swifts team is pissed at Justin Baldoni MY Go Big Podcasting Courses Are Here! Purchase Go Big Podcasting and learn to start, monetize, and grow your own podcast. USE CODE: MOM15 for 15% OFF (code expires May 11th, 2025) **SHOP my Amazon Marketplace - especially if you're looking to get geared-up to start your own Podcast!!!** https://www.amazon.com/shop/thesarahfrasershow Show is sponsored by: Download Cash App & sign up! Use our exclusive referral code TSFS in your profile, send $5 to a friend within 14 days, and you’ll get $10 dropped right into your account. Terms apply Horizonfibroids.com get rid of those nasty fibroids Gopurebeauty.com science backed skincare from head to toe, use code TSFS at checkout for 25% OFF your order Nutrafol.com use code TSFS for FREE shipping and $10 off your subscription Rula.com/tsfs to get started today. That’s R-U-L-A dot com slash tsfs for convenient therapy that’s covered by insurance. SkylightCal.com/tsfs for $30 OFF your 15 inch calendar Quince.com/tsfs for FREE shipping on your order and 365 day returns Warbyparker.com/tsfs make an appointment at one of their 270 store locations and head to the website to try on endless pairs of glasses virtually and buy your perfect pair Follow me on Instagram/Tiktok: @thesarahfrasershow ***Visit our Sub-Reddit: reddit.com/r/thesarahfrasershow for ALL things The Sarah Fraser Show!!!*** Advertise on The Sarah Fraser Show: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Got a juicy gossip TIP from your favorite TLC or Bravo show? Email: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 39:01

MP3•Episode home

What if the reason you're stuck isn’t strategy… but your subconscious?

In this powerful episode, JR sits down with wealth coach Lisa Smith, who helps six- and seven-figure entrepreneurs break through self-imposed financial ceilings and reach early retirement—without sacrificing their soul or sanity.

Together, they unpack the concept of your “deserve level”—a subconscious set point that can quietly sabotage your business growth, your wealth, and your self-worth. If you’ve ever felt like no matter how much you earn, you can’t seem to hold onto it... or like success triggers fear, guilt, or burnout... this conversation is for you.

26 episodes

Breaking the Financial Ceiling: How Your ‘Deserve Level’ Is Holding You Back

Level Up Business

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

What if the reason you're stuck isn’t strategy… but your subconscious?

26 episodes

All episodes

1
From Chaos to Clarity: What Every Entrepreneur Needs to Hear 43:02

1 day ago43:02

43:02

Feeling stuck, scattered, or like you’re not where you “should” be by now? You’re not alone—and you’re not done. In this episode of The Level Up Business Podcast , JR Lay sits down with Darren Violette , a financial advisor and B2B entrepreneur who opens up about his long road from insecurity and failure to clarity and growth. Darren shares how he spent years learning the “hard skills” of his business—but it wasn’t until he confronted the inner work that things really started to change. We explore how to: Lead with confidence, not just competence Rebuild belief after burnout or business breakdowns Redefine wealth beyond just dollars and data And why showing up as who you’ve become is the most powerful shift of all This isn’t just another story of success—it’s a masterclass in resilience, reflection, and choosing to grow when it’s easier to quit . Listen in and discover how to silence the noise, act on what you can control, and forge a business—and life—that reflects who you’re truly becoming.…

1
How to Turn Your Hard Lessons into a Scalable Business Model as a B2B Entrepreneur with Ron Cuff 32:03

3 days ago32:03

32:03

What if the lessons you’ve learned as a B2B entrepreneur could become a powerful new income stream and help others avoid the painful pitfalls you’ve already overcome? In this episode of The Level Up Business Podcast , JR Lay is joined by Ron Cuff , Co-Founder of Forge , to explore how authentic, hard-earned wisdom can be transformed into real systems that scale businesses—especially in the home services industry. Ron shares how embracing transparency, letting go of limiting beliefs, and investing in team growth helped him unlock exponential success. If you’ve ever felt stuck, undervalued your own experience, or questioned your ability to lead others forward, this conversation will shift your perspective and reignite your purpose. Listen in to learn how your past can become your greatest asset on the path to growth and impact.…

1
Thriving Together: How Entrepreneurial Couples Can Build a Bigger Future with Less Chaos 27:21

9 days ago27:21

27:21

Entrepreneurs often live in chaos—either dragging it from business into the home or vice versa. This lack of alignment leads to communication breakdowns, emotional disconnection, and stalled dreams. Left unchecked, this chaos breeds unresolved conflict, financial stress, and even resentment. Eventually, couples find themselves completely out of sync, unsure how they got there or how to find their way back. Tom Bouwer , best-selling author of The Cohesive Couple: Escape the Chaos. Connect Deeply. Build A Bigger Future—Together , shares a system to help couples bring just the right amount of structure to their relationship. By syncing weekly, setting shared goals, and communicating through shared tools, couples can realign, reconnect, and co-create the future they truly desire.…

1
Why Most B2B Brands Are Stuck—and How to Break Through with Megan Bowen 27:01

10 days ago27:01

27:01

Megan Bowen , CEO of Refine Labs , joins JR Lay to break down how forward-thinking B2B brands can embrace change through adaptability, strategic reflection, and an evolved demand gen model. From redefining brand, demand, and expansion strategies to building internal change management discipline, this conversation offers a path forward to those ready to level up.…

1
Unlocking Your Genius: Why Conflict Is the Key with Matthew Abrams 46:57

16 days ago46:57

46:57

Think conflict is something to avoid? Think again. In this episode, JR Lay and Matthew Abrams , Certified EOS Implementer & Coach, blow up the myth that conflict is bad for business — or for you. The truth? Conflict is where your next big breakthrough is hiding. They dive deep into how early life experiences secretly shape how you lead today, why most entrepreneurs unconsciously sabotage their own growth, and how facing the hard stuff (instead of running from it) unlocks your true genius. If you want to live and lead with more authenticity, build stronger teams, and stop playing defense in your own life — this episode is your roadmap.…

1
Energy Management Secrets Every Entrepreneur Should Know (Introducing the Kolbe A Index with Audrey Cannata) 35:12

17 days ago35:12

35:12

Entrepreneurs often experience unexpected energy drain, friction, or stagnation — not just within themselves, but also within their teams and collaborations — without understanding why. Left unchecked, this misalignment can silently sabotage momentum, drain confidence, and create persistent bottlenecks that prevent business growth. Entrepreneurs may mistakenly blame skills, motivation, or even the people around them when the real issue is a hidden mismatch in natural ways of taking action. In this episode, JR Lay and Audrey Cannata reveal how the Kolbe A Index unlocks clarity not only about your own energy management but also about how to work more effectively with those around you. Learn how to identify and eliminate the unseen barriers to your growth, so you and your team can move forward with more confidence, alignment, and sustainable energy.…

1
From Corporate Burnout to Joyful Entrepreneurship with Lori Pine 25:29

23 days ago25:29

25:29

Entrepreneurship is rising — but what happens when your career success still leaves you feeling empty? In this inspiring episode, host JR Lay talks with Lori Pine , executive leadership coach and former corporate VP at Anheuser-Busch, Coca-Cola, and Campbell’s, about what happens when you've checked all the boxes... but life still feels off. Lori shares her deeply personal journey of leaving the corporate world not out of desire, but out of necessity, and how that moment became a catalyst for reinvention, purpose, and JOY.…

1
The Ageless Entrepreneur: How to Rejuvenate Your Health, Energy, and Purpose with Reagan Archibald 35:47

24 days ago35:47

35:47

As entrepreneurs, we often chase the future by sacrificing the very thing that powers us—our health. In this episode of the Level Up Business Podcast, host JR Lay is joined by Regan Archibald , founder of East West Health and leading voice in peptide therapy and regenerative medicine. Together, they explore what it truly means to create an ageless future —one where mind, body, and spirit are aligned to support high performance and deep fulfillment. Regan shares the transformative power of functional medicine, the importance of sleep as a rejuvenation tool, and how visualization and clarity can spark a healthier, more purpose-driven path. This conversation dives into the heart of why so many entrepreneurs feel burnt out, disconnected, and unfulfilled—even after hitting major milestones. The solution? Reconnecting with love—for yourself, your mission, and your body’s innate wisdom. This isn’t just about longevity—it’s about living with energy, purpose, and presence today.…

1
Why Most B2B Brands Are Forgettable—and How to Fix Yours with Bobby Gillespie 30:56

30 days ago30:56

30:56

In the noisy world of B2B marketing, most brands are forgotten the moment after a prospect scrolls past their feed. Why? Because they’re focused on features, price, and parroting the same tired messages—without ever truly standing for something. Instead of building real connection and recognition, they blend into the crowd. If your brand feels invisible, it might be because you’re missing the foundation: a clear vision , a unique vibe , and a real reason to exist. When you rely on marketing buzzwords or AI-generated fluff, you risk sounding like everyone else. And in the age of commoditization—especially with AI accelerating that trend—what makes you stand out isn’t tech. It’s your authentic intelligence . In this episode, Bobby Gillespie , founder of Propr and author of Build Your Brand Like You Give a Sh t* , shares how to build a brand that people actually remember. He breaks down how to use personality + IP (intellectual property) to differentiate, why brand is really about reputation , and how curiosity and lived experience can drive authentic growth. If you want to stop being forgettable and start being unmistakable , this conversation is your roadmap.…

1
From Scarcity to Scale: The Inner Work Behind Sustainable Business Growth with Jeremey Newberg 34:46

4 weeks ago34:46

34:46

Too many entrepreneurs grind through frustration, stuck on the revenue rollercoaster—growing fast, crashing hard, then repeating the cycle. That’s exactly where Jeremey Newberg , CEO of Capital Access , found himself at 50. Stagnant. Burned out. And wondering what it would take to break through. In this episode, Jeremey shares how he transformed from a “grumpy grinder” into a “fantastic facilitator” by doing the deep inner work first. He unpacks the mindset shifts, frameworks (EOS, Strategic Coach, AMP), and personal practices that helped him move from scarcity to abundance—and how that shift is now leveling up his team and organization.…

1
Your Thoughts Are Not Your Friends: How to Reclaim Control of Your Mind 35:10

5 weeks ago35:10

35:10

What if the real threat to your business isn’t the market... but your own thoughts? In this vulnerable and high-impact episode of the Level Up Business Podcast , JR Lay sits down with Ben Ward , bestselling author of Pluck the FUD and CEO of Forward Leadership , to explore how fear, pride, and ego can sabotage even the most successful entrepreneurs—from the inside out. Ben shares the raw story of building a $56 million company by the age of 30… and then losing everything. Why? Hubris. Ego. Unchecked thoughts. But through the darkest moments—foreclosure, failure, identity crisis—he found a deeper truth: Your thoughts are not your friends. And they don’t have to define you.…

1
Breaking the Financial Ceiling: How Your ‘Deserve Level’ Is Holding You Back 39:01

5 weeks ago39:01

39:01

What if the reason you're stuck isn’t strategy… but your subconscious? In this powerful episode, JR sits down with wealth coach Lisa Smith , who helps six- and seven-figure entrepreneurs break through self-imposed financial ceilings and reach early retirement— without sacrificing their soul or sanity . Together, they unpack the concept of your “deserve level” —a subconscious set point that can quietly sabotage your business growth, your wealth, and your self-worth. If you’ve ever felt like no matter how much you earn, you can’t seem to hold onto it... or like success triggers fear, guilt, or burnout... this conversation is for you.…

1
You Don’t Need to Suffer to Succeed: Reprogramming Your Beliefs with Chris Walker 48:54

6 weeks ago48:54

48:54

Most B2B entrepreneurs have been sold a lie: that success must come through struggle, sacrifice, and suffering. But what if the very mindset that got you here is the same one keeping you stuck? In this powerful and raw conversation, JR Lay sits down with Chris Walker —Founder & CEO of Passetto —to explore the deep inner work that unlocks true freedom and exponential growth. Chris just returned from a month-long break —a mix of reflection, tropical beaches, and total disconnection. The twist? His business didn’t just survive… it thrived . For most B2B entrepreneurs, that kind of freedom sounds like a fantasy. But in this eye-opening episode, Chris joins JR Lay to reveal how it’s not only possible—but the natural result of reprogramming your beliefs and building the right internal operating system.…

1
Mind-Body-Spirit Alignment for Entrepreneurial Breakthroughs with Daniel White 32:16

6 weeks ago32:16

32:16

What if the real reason you're stuck isn’t your strategy—but your energy? In this deeply insightful episode, JR Lay welcomes Daniel White , entrepreneur, spiritual healer, and author of Financial Freedom System . Daniel shares how an Olympic dream cut short led him on a transformational path—from mastering the mind-body connection to diving deep into spiritual healing. Together, they explore the hidden blockages—some even generational—that hold entrepreneurs back, even when they’ve checked all the “success” boxes. This conversation is an invitation to stop pushing and start flowing. Daniel shares the importance of intuition, the danger of ego-driven decisions, and how entrepreneurs can expand their capacity to help others—without burning out. Whether you're feeling stuck or sensing it’s time for your next level, this episode will shift your perspective and offer a path to clarity, healing, and growth.…

1
Endless Customers: Becoming the Most Trusted Brand in Your Industry with Marcus Sheridan 33:41

7 weeks ago33:41

33:41

Today’s buyers are more skeptical, impatient, and independent than ever before. They don’t want to talk to a salesperson until they're ready . They want pricing upfront, control over their buying journey, and total transparency from the brands they engage with. In this episode, JR Lay is joined by marketing visionary and best-selling author Marcus Sheridan , whose new book Endless Customers provides a timely playbook for becoming the most trusted brand in your market. Marcus breaks down the four pillars that define market leaders today: say what others aren’t willing to say, show what others aren’t willing to show, sell in ways others aren’t willing to sell, and be more human than your competitors. From creating self-service sales tools to implementing lightning-fast lead follow-up, Marcus shares real-world strategies and mindset shifts that help you build a scalable, trust-based business that thrives—regardless of how platforms or algorithms change.…

1
First Impressions in the Age of AI: Are You Sending the Wrong Signal? (with Chris Gillett) 38:54

7 weeks ago38:54

38:54

In a world dominated by digital impressions, most B2B entrepreneurs are unknowingly sabotaging their personal brands with inauthentic, AI-generated content....and headshots! And here’s the danger—people can feel it. Whether consciously or not, your prospects, clients, and peers pick up on subtle facial cues and expressions that signal confidence, trust, and likability. In this candid and entertaining episode, JR Lay catches up with Chris Gillett , a Headshot Specialist and Expression Coach (and former attorney!) at LikeTheRazor.com , to unpack the power of authentic visual communication. Discover why facial expression—not filters or fancy cameras—is the secret weapon to projecting confidence, trust, and charisma in a world that’s craving more authentic intelligence . Chris shares how a single headshot changed the way he saw himself—and how he’s now helping entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals do the same. If you want to look like someone others want to do business with , this episode will help you see yourself differently and show up with more confidence than ever before.…

1
Breaking Through Mental Barriers to Build a Thriving Business with Natasha Schiffman 34:46

8 weeks ago34:46

34:46

Many entrepreneurs struggle with self-doubt, limiting beliefs, and the constant pressure to "push harder" in their business. These mental roadblocks—often rooted in childhood experiences—can create frustration, burnout, and a sense of stagnation. In this episode, Natasha Schiffman , entrepreneur and coach, joins host JR Lay to explore the psychological shifts necessary for business success. Natasha shares actionable strategies, including weekly accountability, goal harmony, and the ‘Pearl Habit’—a method for turning irritations into gratitude and growth . Listeners will learn how to reframe limiting beliefs, align their goals with their values, and transition from force to flow in their entrepreneurial journey.…

1
Navigating the Entrepreneurial Triad: Business, Family, and Finances with Michael Pallozzi 29:07

8 weeks ago29:07

29:07

Entrepreneurs often excel at building businesses and making money, but when it comes to managing their personal finances, succession planning, and creating long-term wealth, many fall short. In this episode, Michael Pallozzi , President of HFM Investment Advisors , shares insights on how business owners can navigate the intersection of business, family, and finances without losing control. From understanding the real value of your assets to overcoming self-limiting beliefs about money, Michael reveals why even the most successful entrepreneurs often lack a clear financial plan—and what they can do about it. We also explore the unique challenges of family-owned businesses , including succession planning, navigating financial conflicts, and ensuring fairness among heirs. Michael breaks down why many business owners avoid these tough conversations and how they can take proactive steps to secure their legacy while keeping family relationships intact.…

1
Fully Invested: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Commitment with Chad Willardson 25:28

9 weeks ago25:28

25:28

Are you fully invested in your business, your relationships, and your life? In this episode, Chad Willardson , Founder & President of Pacific Capital and creator of Platinum Elevated , shares his philosophy on what it means to go all in —and why most entrepreneurs hold themselves back out of fear. Chad’s journey from leaving a secure career at Merrill Lynch to building his own wealth management firm is proof that success comes from taking bold action. He also shares the powerful story of an 18-foot waterfall jump in New Zealand that transformed his mindset on risk, decision-making, and leadership.…

1
From Force to Flow: Releasing Blockages to Propel Your Business Forward 33:59

9 weeks ago33:59

33:59

What if the biggest barrier to your business growth isn’t strategy, but the energy behind it? In this episode of the Level Up Business Podcast , I’m joined by Jordan Bonifas , founder of Boniface Coaching, to explore how shifting from force to flow can unlock exponential success. We dive deep into the unseen blocks that hold entrepreneurs back, uncovering why past failures often unconsciously dictate future decisions and how moving energy can drive execution with velocity. Jordan shares his unique perspective on the connection between inner mastery and business strategy , revealing why silence is the key to transformation and how it sets the foundation for making bold, strategic choices in uncertain times. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or held back by invisible barriers, this conversation is for you. Learn how to let go of force, embrace flow, and level up your business and life.…

1
You Sold a Billion-Dollar Company… Now What? 26:03

10 weeks ago26:03

26:03

After co-founding Digital Insight and selling it to Intuit for $1.35 billion, Paul Fiore found himself in an eight-year search for his next big thing. The entrepreneurial high was gone, and he realized that chasing success without meaning leads to frustration and stagnation. In this episode, JR Lay and Paul Fiore unpack how entrepreneurs can redefine success, reignite their purpose, and think even bigger. Paul shares his insights on innovation, storytelling, and how to sell a vision that inspires both customers and employees. Whether you're scaling your business or searching for your next Everest, this conversation will help you level up your mindset, mission, and meaning.…

1
Building Authority, Deepening Relationships, and Closing Deals Through Podcasting 28:01

11 weeks ago28:01

28:01

Many B2B entrepreneurs are stuck in a cycle of relentless marketing activity, struggling to turn conversations into real business opportunities. Damien Stevens , Founder & CEO of Servosity and host of the MSP Mindset podcast, faced this same challenge—until he discovered a better way. In this episode, Damien shares how implementing the Level Up Business OS transformed his approach to marketing, shifting his focus from transactional sales tactics to co-creating content, building meaningful relationships, and ultimately driving conversions . He reveals how setting a bold goal of 100 conversations with top MSP leaders not only elevated his brand but also unlocked new business opportunities.…

1
Transforming Tough Times: Lessons from a Business Divorce and Beyond 34:43

12 weeks ago34:43

34:43

Entrepreneurship isn’t always smooth sailing—just ask Rusty Bynum. With 25+ years in the financial world, Rusty opens up about one of the toughest challenges he’s faced: a “business divorce.” He shares the raw lessons he learned, how he rebuilt his mindset, and why having the right people in your corner makes all the difference. They also dive into the power of morning routines, continuous learning, and the habits that have helped Rusty unlock new levels of success. Whether you’re navigating a tough transition or just looking to level up, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.…

1
Discipline and Vision: The Dual Pillars of Entrepreneurial Success 47:46

13 weeks ago47:46

47:46

Why do so many six and seven-figure entrepreneurs still struggle with cash flow? Making money isn’t the same as building wealth, and without the right financial habits, even high earners can feel stuck. In this episode of the Level Up Business Podcast , host JR Lay sits down with Jason Sipple , founder and CEO of Wheel of Wealth , to uncover why entrepreneurs face financial struggles—and how to fix them. Jason helps high-earning fathers solve cash flow problems, create financial stability, and scale their wealth. The secret? A bigger vision and disciplined execution. Jason and JR break down why your vision for the future must be bigger than your present reality —and how developing a discipline around discipline can help you build long-term success. If you’re looking to break free from cash flow challenges and level up your business, this episode is for you.…

1
How to Learn the Level Up Business OS 1:50

14 weeks ago1:50

1:50

If you’re a B2B entrepreneur looking to elevate your brand, expand your influence, and scale your business—without sacrificing your health, relationships, or well-being—you’re in the right place. I know firsthand how the stress of running a business can take a toll. Back in 2012, I was battling addiction, depression, and imposter syndrome while trying to grow my company in the financial services industry. I struggled to stand out, attract the right clients, and break free from the commodity trap. But the real challenge wasn’t just external—it was my own self-limiting beliefs holding me back. That’s when I found a better way forward and developed what would become the Level Up Business OS—a system that helped me build a multi-seven-figure business, become a two-time bestselling author, and a global keynote speaker. Now, I’m here to share everything I’ve learned so that you can unlock the same success. On this channel, you’ll find: ✅ Strategies to differentiate your brand and stand out in your industry ✅ Insights on expanding your influence through content, speaking, and networking ✅ Conversations with successful B2B entrepreneurs sharing their hard-earned wisdom ✅ Practical lessons to grow your business without burning out…

1
Level Up Your Business: Marketing and Sales Strategies for B2B Entrepreneurs 17:17

15 weeks ago17:17