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Traditional banks often lack personalized service, and local businesses struggle to find true partnership in financial institutions. Meanwhile, higher education faces scrutiny over relevance and ROI in a world where information is nearly free. Harry Allen helped launch Studio Bank to blend technology with high-touch service, fueled by community investment. At Belmont, he's applying the same entrepreneurial mindset to modernize university operations and embed practical learning experiences, like a one-of-a-kind partnership with Dolly Parton, into academia. In this episode, Harry L. Allen, co-founder of Studio Bank and now CFO at Belmont University, unpacks the bold vision behind launching a community-first bank in a city dominated by financial giants. He shares the leadership lessons that shaped his journey, how to lead through crisis, and why mentorship is the key to filling today's leadership vacuum. Key Takeaways Leveraging both financial and social capital creates a unique, community-first banking model. High-tech doesn't mean low-touch, Studio Bank fused innovation with personal relationships. Leadership means showing up, especially during crisis. Universities must shift from being information hubs to delivering real-world experience. Succession and mentorship are vital to cultivating the next generation of leaders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Harry L. Allen 01:49 The Birth of Studio Bank 04:29 Leveraging Technology in Community Banking 07:25 The Courage to Start a New Venture 10:37 Leadership Challenges in High Growth 13:02 Leading Through Crisis: The COVID Experience 17:55 Transitioning from Banking to Education 21:16 The Role of Leadership in Higher Education 25:16 Adapting to Challenges in Higher Education 30:04 The Leadership Vacuum in Society 33:17 Advice for Emerging Leaders 35:21 The American Dream and Community Impact No Limit Leadership is the go-to podcast for growth-minded executives, middle managers, and team leaders who want more than surface-level leadership advice. Hosted by executive coach and former Special Forces commander Sean Patton, this show dives deep into modern leadership, self-leadership, and the real-world strategies that build high-performing teams. Whether you're focused on leadership development, building a coaching culture, improving leadership communication, or strengthening team accountability, each episode equips you with actionable insights to unlock leadership potential across your organization. From designing onboarding systems that retain talent to asking better questions that drive clarity and impact, No Limit Leadership helps you lead yourself first so you can lead others better. If you're ready to create a culture of ownership, resilience, and results, this leadership podcast is for you.…
Content provided by Omar Medrano. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Omar Medrano or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Are you sitting on your dream instead of acting on it because the voice in your head is telling you, “no”? Are you afraid of failure? Maybe you think you’re just too old to begin a new adventure.What if, instead, you could squash these fears and silence the scared voice that prevents you from taking the leap and live your TRUE purpose?If you can learn to change just ONE thought, then I promise you will change your life.This podcast will show YOU how to STOP fear in its tracks so you can take action, which means you can follow God’s BIGGER plan for your life.When you listen to this podcast, you will...Believe in yourself again (no matter what your past looks like or what people say) so you can take the leap into your divine purposeNot only give yourself permission to create a life you only dream about (it all starts with one easy step) BUT the faith to take action and pursue itFace every day without fear of failure (even if you’ve stumbled before)Leave a legacy that you not only control but create (God gave you everything you need!)Reverse your thinking from “what if it goes wrong” to “what if it goes right” (this podcast will eliminate the worst-case scenario thinking that plagues so many people)Prepare yourself for dark times so that fear NEVER takes hold of you againAre you ready for it to work? About your Host:Omar Medrano wants to help you shake up your approach to launching your next business, keeping your happiness and life in mind, as well as your bottom line, which he enjoys doing through books like this, online coaching, and speaking regularly.And when he’s not teaching business owners how to find clarity, conviction, and faith in themselves, you can find him playing the stock market, working out, and indulging in the occasional smoothie while parenting his incredible daughters.
Content provided by Omar Medrano. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Omar Medrano or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Are you sitting on your dream instead of acting on it because the voice in your head is telling you, “no”? Are you afraid of failure? Maybe you think you’re just too old to begin a new adventure.What if, instead, you could squash these fears and silence the scared voice that prevents you from taking the leap and live your TRUE purpose?If you can learn to change just ONE thought, then I promise you will change your life.This podcast will show YOU how to STOP fear in its tracks so you can take action, which means you can follow God’s BIGGER plan for your life.When you listen to this podcast, you will...Believe in yourself again (no matter what your past looks like or what people say) so you can take the leap into your divine purposeNot only give yourself permission to create a life you only dream about (it all starts with one easy step) BUT the faith to take action and pursue itFace every day without fear of failure (even if you’ve stumbled before)Leave a legacy that you not only control but create (God gave you everything you need!)Reverse your thinking from “what if it goes wrong” to “what if it goes right” (this podcast will eliminate the worst-case scenario thinking that plagues so many people)Prepare yourself for dark times so that fear NEVER takes hold of you againAre you ready for it to work? About your Host:Omar Medrano wants to help you shake up your approach to launching your next business, keeping your happiness and life in mind, as well as your bottom line, which he enjoys doing through books like this, online coaching, and speaking regularly.And when he’s not teaching business owners how to find clarity, conviction, and faith in themselves, you can find him playing the stock market, working out, and indulging in the occasional smoothie while parenting his incredible daughters.
Do you ever wonder why some people with modest incomes build substantial wealth while others earning six figures live paycheck to paycheck? The answer lies not in how much money you make, but in your relationship with money itself. Gino Barbaro, who built a $250 million real estate portfolio comprising over 2,000 multifamily units, reveals the hidden force governing your financial decisions: your "money bio." These are the childhood memories and messages about wealth that subconsciously drive your adult financial behaviors. As Gino shares, "Money doesn't corrupt, it reveals" - amplifying who you already are rather than fundamentally changing you. Through personal stories, Gino illustrates how his own limiting beliefs formed at age five when his grandmother couldn't afford to buy him toy soldiers, creating a scarcity mindset he carried for decades. This exploration of financial psychology goes beyond conventional advice, challenging listeners to examine their earliest money memories to uncover why they might overspend, undersave, or avoid financial responsibility altogether. The conversation takes fascinating turns through the history of currency, the psychology of spending for validation, and how societal messages about wealth create unhealthy relationships with money. Most powerfully, Gino introduces the concept of "happy money" - shifting your perspective from viewing expenses as drains to appreciating what they provide, from seeing bills as burdens to recognizing them as evidence of your ability to create comfort and security. Whether you're struggling with debt or managing investments, this episode provides a framework for understanding how your financial decisions are guided less by mathematics and more by emotional patterns established decades ago. By understanding your money bio, you can begin the journey from working hard for money to making money work hard for you. Ready to transform your relationship with money? Visit Barbaro360.com to download Gino's free book and start creating your own financial legacy today. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What if burnout wasn't inevitable? What if your workplace could be a source of energy rather than exhaustion? Lindsay Barnett, executive coach and author of the Amazon bestseller "Working Hell to Working Well," joins us to unpack the modern workplace crisis where half of employed Americans report feeling burnt out. Drawing from over two decades working with Fortune 500 companies and growing startups, Lindsay shares how her own journey from workaholic to entrepreneur opened her eyes to better ways of working. The conversation takes us through the evolution of workplace expectations, from the "suck it up" mentality of previous generations to today's emerging focus on meaning, belonging, and purpose. Lindsay reveals the research showing people who experience workplace belonging are 2.5 times less likely to burn out, yet most organizations continue treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes of workforce dissatisfaction. We explore how pandemic-era reflections forced many to reevaluate their relationship with work, while challenging outdated industrial-age management philosophies that fail to recognize how innovation actually happens. Lindsay offers practical wisdom for leaders struggling with retention, suggesting they start by simply asking team members what motivates them instead of making assumptions. Whether you're leading a team, feeling stuck in a toxic work environment, or building your own business, this conversation offers both validation and actionable insights to transform your relationship with work. The episode culminates with Lindsay's "platinum rule" for workplace success: don't treat others as you want to be treated, but as they want to be treated. Ready to escape working hell and create a more fulfilling professional life? Listen now, then connect with Lindsay at BarnettCoaching.com or explore her free resources at WorkingHellToWorkingWell.com. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
When life throws you lemons, make a honey-sweetened cocktail. That's essentially what Jack Espy did when the pandemic erased his real estate finance job offer right after graduating from USC in 2020. Rather than despairing, Jack asked himself a simple yet profound question: "What if it did work?" This entrepreneurial spark led Jack to transform his passion for mixology into Spirited Hive, a rapidly growing canned cocktail company that uses honey as its distinctive sweetener. Jack's timing couldn't have been better – he recognized the emerging "better-for-you" category in the beverage alcohol space before it became mainstream, positioning his brand perfectly as consumers increasingly sought quality ingredients even in their alcoholic beverages. Within just a few years, Spirited Hive secured partnerships with major sports teams and expanded across multiple states, becoming the official RTD partner for venues nationwide. But Jack's vision doesn't stop there. He's now launching Strive, a non-alcoholic functional beverage designed to support health and wellness while providing hydration through a delicious soda alternative. By housing both brands under one parent company, Jack has created an efficient business structure that allows for shared resources while maintaining distinct brand identities targeting different consumer needs. His strategic approach to market entry – focusing initially on Nashville, San Diego, and South Florida before expanding – demonstrates his thoughtful growth mindset. What makes Jack's story particularly compelling is his authenticity as a founder. In an era when celebrity-backed beverage brands are becoming increasingly common, Jack represents a new wave of founder-led brands built on genuine stories and passion. His journey reminds us that sometimes life's unexpected detours lead to our greatest opportunities – if only we have the courage to ask, "What if it did work?" and take that first step. Follow Jack's journey and try these innovative beverages for yourself at spiritedhive.com and strivesoda.com. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What happens when a physician decides healthcare needs a complete overhaul? Dr. Angie Abu-Talib, National Director of Quality and Education for 500 hospitals, has created something extraordinary with WholeMed—a revolutionary approach addressing the fundamental flaws in modern medicine. The problem with today's healthcare isn't just about hurried appointments or disconnected specialists. As Dr. Angie reveals in this candid conversation, we're trapped in a system that medicates symptoms while ignoring root causes. "I admitted a 35-year-old with 16 medications," she shares, highlighting the unsustainable approach dominating treatment of chronic conditions. Meanwhile, doctors themselves are burning out at alarming rates, creating a healthcare crisis from both sides. Dr. Angie's eight-week transformation program represents a radical departure from conventional treatment models. Based on neuroplasticity science showing it takes precisely eight weeks to physically restructure the brain, her approach begins with something unexpected—a dopamine detox. By addressing our addiction to constant stimulation (from social media scrolling to nightly wine), patients create the foundation for genuine healing. But what truly sets her method apart is the integration of purpose alongside mind and body healing. "People think success equals happiness, but it's finding your purpose that leads to happiness and then success," Dr. Angie explains, identifying what she calls "destination addiction"—the false belief that "I'll be happy when..." This insight transforms patients who achieve their physical health goals only to discover they're still unfulfilled. By addressing all three pillars—mind, body, and purpose—WholeMed creates sustainable transformation where conventional medicine has failed. Ready to experience healthcare that actually heals instead of just managing symptoms? Visit wholemedmethod.com to schedule a 15-minute introductory call and discover how this physician-backed approach could transform your relationship with health forever. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
How much would you endure to save your life and your child's? Mary Lyn Hammer takes us on an extraordinary journey through the medical wilderness of Lyme disease, revealing the devastating reality of this widely misunderstood condition. After being bitten by a tick during a business conference, Mary Lynn spent six and a half years suffering through debilitating symptoms while doctors repeatedly missed her diagnosis. The disease struck during her pregnancy, passing to her unborn daughter and setting them both on a path of chronic illness. From extreme skier to someone who couldn't walk up stairs, Mary Lyn watched her vibrant life fade away despite visiting countless medical professionals. When finally diagnosed, she faced a treatment ordeal that would challenge the strongest spirit. With a six-figure medical debt accumulating and her daughter showing cognitive challenges, Mary Lyn refused to accept conventional wisdom about chronic Lyme. Her turning point came through discovering the role of biofilms in protecting the bacteria from treatment – a breakthrough that eventually led to complete recovery for both mother and daughter. The revelation that Lyme disease can be sexually transmitted and passed in utero reveals why entire families often suffer without understanding why. Through years of research and personal experimentation, Mary Lynn developed a comprehensive three-phase protocol that has condensed recovery time from years to just months. Her approach addresses not just the bacterial infection but the complex immune dysfunction and detoxification challenges that make Lyme so difficult to overcome. Today, Mary Lyn's daughter is 24, a college graduate thriving without limitations. Through her platform Champion for Life and her book "Over My Dead Body," Mary Lynn is bringing hope to countless sufferers who've been told their condition is untreatable or imaginary. If you or someone you love is battling unexplained chronic symptoms, her story might hold the answers you've been seeking. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What happens when the life that looks perfect on paper leaves you feeling empty inside? In this revealing conversation with bestselling author Kayla Logue, we challenge conventional definitions of success and explore what it truly means to live a fulfilling life. Kayla shares her remarkable journey from feeling trapped in a "storybook" existence to boldly redefining her path as an author, multi-unit Pilates franchise owner, and founder of the nonprofit Move Into Words. With raw honesty, she recounts walking away from her seemingly perfect life with just $900 to her name—a decision that ultimately led to authentic happiness and meaningful success. "Success really does look different for everybody," Kayla explains, highlighting how our pursuit of external validation creates a cycle of emptiness rather than fulfillment. We discuss why so many people remain stuck in unfulfilling relationships, jobs, and situations, afraid to make changes that could lead to greater happiness. Through Kayla's personal experiences, we uncover how journaling with genuine intention helped her process emotions, create clarity, and chart a new course aligned with her true desires. The conversation tackles the myth of overnight success in entrepreneurship, revealing the consistency, patience, and sacrifice behind every achievement. Kayla dispels common misconceptions about building businesses, emphasizing that true success comes from living authentically and prioritizing what matters most: time freedom, meaningful relationships, and mental and physical well-being. Whether you're questioning your current path, feeling trapped in golden handcuffs, or simply curious about redefining success on your own terms, this episode offers powerful insights on breaking free from societal expectations and creating a life that feels genuinely successful—not just on paper, but in your heart. Follow Kayla's journey on Instagram @KaylaLogue and check out her book "Always Squeezing Lemons" to discover how redefining success might be the key to finding your own happiness. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
Remember when we used punch cards, microfiche, and spent months developing business plans? That world is gone. Today's business landscape demands speed and innovation—and AI is the game-changer making it possible. John Munsell, CEO of Bazooka and LSU's go-to AI instructor, unpacks how businesses can implement artificial intelligence without creating organizational chaos. Unlike consultants who merely explain why AI matters, John focuses on practical execution that delivers measurable results—helping companies generate $15 million in revenue over just two years through strategic AI adoption. The conversation demolishes common AI misconceptions, revealing that everyday tools costing just $20 monthly can transform business operations. John walks through real examples: generating comprehensive business plans in hours instead of months, creating custom legal documents without expensive attorney fees, deploying AI note-takers that allow for fully present conversations, and building specialized GPTs that become invaluable knowledge repositories for your organization. One student slashed patent costs from $3,500 to just $300 per filing—demonstrating the immediate ROI that intelligent implementation delivers. Perhaps most compelling is John's approach to workforce transformation. Rather than replacing employees, he advocates training existing team members who already understand your culture and processes. "It costs seven times more to replace an employee than to train them," he explains, outlining how his 2-6 week training programs help companies retain talent while dramatically increasing productivity. Don't be the last business to adopt this technology. As John warns, "The company that learns to get everybody thinking AI-first, the fastest, is the one that wins." Visit Bazooka.com to discover training options through LSU Continuing Education or explore John's book "In-Grain AI" about creating an AI-first culture in your organization. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
Have you ever wondered why men rarely talk about size concerns, even as cosmetic procedures become increasingly normalized for women? In this fascinating conversation with Dr. Joel Pash, we pull back the curtain on the secretive world of male enhancement and discover why more men than ever are seeking solutions. Dr. Pash, an anesthesiologist by training and co-founder of Upsize Clinic, reveals how his expertise with complex injections led him to revolutionizing male enhancement procedures. Far from the risky surgeries many envision, the modern approach involves a 45-minute injectable procedure with immediate results and minimal recovery. With effects lasting approximately two years, it represents a safer alternative to permanent surgical implants that can lead to serious complications. Throughout our candid discussion, we explore why men across America – from metropolitan hubs like San Francisco and Miami to everywhere in between – are quietly investing in these procedures, often without telling even their closest friends. Dr. Pash shares shocking stories of medical tourism gone wrong, with patients seeking bargain procedures in Mexico or Eastern Europe only to require corrective treatment later. At around $6,000, these procedures aren't covered by insurance, yet demand continues to grow as men seek the same confidence boost women have long pursued through cosmetic enhancement. The parallels between male enhancement and other cosmetic procedures prove enlightening – from the psychological benefits to the potential risks when cutting corners. Whether you're curious about the procedure yourself or simply fascinated by this rarely discussed aspect of men's health, this episode offers unprecedented insight into why size matters and the lengths men will go to address their most private insecurities. Discover more about safe enhancement options by visiting upsizematters.com, where you can find a qualified provider near you through their doctor finder tool. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What if you could access all your home equity without sacrificing future appreciation? Kyle Kamrooz, founder and CEO of Bonus Homes, joins us to reveal how his personal family story sparked a revolutionary approach to homeownership and wealth-building for middle-class Americans. Born to Iranian immigrants who fled pre-revolution Iran in 1976, Kyle's journey is quintessentially American yet uniquely shaped by watching his father's financial struggles. After building multiple successful mortgage technology companies (including CloudVirga, which processed over $300B in loans annually before its acquisition), Kyle identified a fundamental flaw in how Americans build wealth: the requirement to sell appreciating home assets whenever life demands mobility. The lightbulb moment came when Kyle's father sold his home in 2011 to access $100,000 in equity – a property that would be worth $1.2 million today. This experience revealed a stark inequality: affluent homeowners can maintain multiple properties when they relocate, while middle-class families must liquidate their most significant appreciating asset, forfeiting hundreds of thousands in future wealth. Enter Bonus Homes – an alternative allowing homeowners to "bonus" their property instead of selling it. By targeting properties valued between $300,000-$550,000 in growing markets like Phoenix, Charlotte, and Nashville, Kyle's platform enables homeowners with coveted sub-4% interest rates to access their equity while maintaining ownership and future appreciation potential. The implications are profound. Kyle envisions creating $5-10 billion in new wealth for 50,000 middle-class families – wealth that would otherwise be sacrificed through traditional home sales. At a time when America's middle class has been "pulverized" over the past two decades, this innovation offers a pathway to rebuilding generational wealth through smarter homeownership. Ready to learn how your home could become a lasting cornerstone of family wealth rather than a temporary stopping point? Listen now to discover why Kyle believes America's middle class deserves better tools for building lasting prosperity. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What happens when life throws you not just one devastating curveball, but several? Travis Robinson's answer might surprise you. At just 35, Travis received a diagnosis that would terrify most people: Parkinson's disease. Yet his immediate response wasn't "Why me?" but rather "How can I take this to my advantage?" Now 46, Travis continues to climb mountains, create stunning theatrical photography, and embrace each day with humor and purpose—even after losing his home and all his photography equipment in the devastating California wildfires of January 2023. Travis takes us on a journey through his daily reality, where some days he can scale impressive peaks but can't carry a bowl of cereal without spilling it. He shares how he coordinates his adventures around his "high-gravity days" when Parkinson's makes getting out of bed nearly impossible. With remarkable candor, he discusses adapting his climbing techniques, rebuilding his award-winning photography career from scratch after the fires, and planning his upcoming photo safari to Iceland. What makes Travis's story so powerful isn't just what he's overcome, but how he's reframed his challenges. "You are not dead yet," he reminds us, "and it is incumbent upon you not to waste the opportunity of life." His philosophy cuts through the noise of everyday complaints and excuses, offering a perspective that's both refreshing and deeply challenging. Whether you're facing your own health battles, recovering from loss, or simply feeling stuck in life's routines, Travis's approach to adversity provides a masterclass in resilience. His simple motto—"Do cool shit"—serves as both his business card and life philosophy, reminding us all that our limitations only define us if we let them. Ready to climb your own mountains? Listen now and discover what's possible when you refuse to be defined by diagnosis. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
Ever wonder why legal advice feels so intimidating for founders? Jeff Holman is changing that narrative by merging his unique background as an engineer, MBA, and attorney to help entrepreneurs navigate the complex world of business law with clarity and confidence. What makes Jeff's approach at Intellectual Strategies different is his fractional legal team model. Rather than providing occasional legal advice or requiring founders to hire a full-time counsel they can't afford, his team becomes an extension of the startup—providing expertise across multiple legal disciplines exactly when needed. This innovative approach means founders get "the right attorney with the right expertise at the right time" without the bottlenecks that come with traditional legal counsel. Our conversation reveals the stark contrast between first-time and second-time founders. While first-timers focus almost exclusively on product-market fit (often neglecting crucial legal foundations), experienced entrepreneurs understand the importance of addressing legal considerations early. As Jeff explains, it's not just about avoiding problems—it's about creating the freedom to operate boldly in your business. His four-layered approach to intellectual property protection (patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets) offers a comprehensive framework for innovative companies to protect what matters most. Perhaps most valuable is Jeff's philosophy around overcoming the fear that paralyzes many entrepreneurs. "You're never afraid of the past," he notes, "you only fear the future." His solution? Action. By taking decisive steps toward addressing potential legal issues, founders transform future uncertainties into present realities they can manage with confidence. This approach embodies his company's mantra: "innovate with confidence." Want to connect with Jeff and his team? Visit intellectualstrategies.com to book a free 30-minute strategy call where he'll help map your business milestones to the legal considerations you should be planning for. Your future self will thank you for taking this proactive step toward building a legally sound business. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What happens when you walk away from a seven-figure Wall Street career to save your family's dying business? For David Heacock, it led to building FilterBuy, a $280 million manufacturing powerhouse that's revolutionizing the air filter industry—all without a single outside investor. The journey wasn't glamorous. Heacock describes the brutal reality of his first few years, including the pivotal moment in 2015 when humidity in Alabama was destroying his production materials and he was down to his last $150,000 in credit. With bankruptcy looming, he drove to Indiana, rented a truck to bring back a specialized machine, and nearly lost his finger while training his team. That near-catastrophe became the turning point that saved his company. Unlike the polished success stories dominating social media, Heacock's path reveals what entrepreneurship truly demands. While others contracted during COVID, he made the audacious move to open a new manufacturing facility in May 2020, allowing FilterBuy to double in revenue within a year. His approach to business—manufacturing domestically, creating nearly 1,000 American jobs, and building a sustainable cash-efficient model—stands in stark contrast to the quick-fix solutions marketed by business gurus charging thousands for seminars. What makes Heacock's perspective particularly valuable is his brutal honesty about entrepreneurship. "People consistently overestimate what they can do in a year and underestimate what they can do in a decade," he shares, emphasizing that clarity of long-term vision combined with patience is what separates successful founders from those who quit too soon. Now expanding beyond direct-to-consumer into retail partnerships with Walmart and launching a nationwide HVAC service business, Heacock is on track to build what he calls "the world's leading indoor air quality company." Whether you're struggling six months into your business journey or contemplating making a bold career pivot, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into what building a substantial company actually requires. Find David on YouTube where he shares his business knowledge freely through weekly Q&A sessions—no $40,000 mastermind required. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
Authenticity in business marketing isn't just a buzzword—it's the difference between being forgettable or memorable in today's attention economy. In this candid conversation with title attorney Justin Nepola, we dive deep into why most professionals struggle to effectively market themselves and how embracing your authentic personality can transform your business results. Justin shares his journey from traditional attorney marketing to becoming what he humorously calls "an amateur social media clown that people seem to be entertained by." His approach flies in the face of conventional wisdom in professional services, where buttoned-up presentations and corporate-speak remain the norm. Yet his willingness to be entertaining first and educational second has created a following that consistently converts to real business. We explore Tony Robbins' provocative claim that "the information age is over" and how we've entered the entertainment age—where attention, not information, is the most valuable currency. This shift requires entrepreneurs to rethink their entire approach to visibility and client acquisition. As Justin puts it, "I'd rather have a hundred people as fans with 25 of them as clients than have the blue check or golden sombrero." The conversation takes fascinating turns through traditional networking (and why it often fails), the courage required to put yourself out there authentically, and why checking your ego at the door might be the most profitable business decision you can make. For anyone struggling to stand out in a crowded marketplace or feeling stuck in outdated marketing approaches, this episode offers both practical wisdom and permission to break free from conventional constraints. Ready to transform how you approach visibility in your business? Listen now and discover what might happen if you asked yourself: "What if it did work?" Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
The path from athlete to entrepreneur to investor is paved with hard-won wisdom that few possess. Chris Van Dusen, Senior Partner at Sully Coy Capital, embodies this journey—transforming a career-ending baseball injury into the foundation for entrepreneurial success and eventually becoming a sought-after venture capitalist specializing in sports technology. What separates successful founders from the rest? According to Chris, it's not just about great ideas but resilience in the face of setbacks. Drawing parallels between athletic discipline and entrepreneurial grit, he shares candid insights about the romanticized versus realistic nature of building companies. "Everyone talks about exits, but nobody discusses the graveyard of failed ventures behind each success," Chris reveals, acknowledging his own eight failures behind three successful exits. His investment philosophy focuses on companies with proven product-market fit ready for strategic growth capital. We dive deep into FluidLogic, a revolutionary hydration technology originally developed for motorsports that's now expanding into military and industrial applications. The company exemplifies what Chris looks for—innovative solutions to fundamental problems with applications across multiple verticals. For founders seeking investment, Chris offers rare transparency about the venture process, explaining why cold pitches rarely succeed and how relationship networks drive the best deals. He emphasizes the critical difference between "just needing money" and finding strategic partners who bring industry expertise and connections that accelerate growth far beyond what capital alone provides. Perhaps most valuable is his direct advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: "Just start." Understanding the difference between low-risk "two-way doors" where you can experiment versus high-commitment "one-way doors" like taking outside investment could save countless founders from premature failure. Focus on dominating one market before expanding, and recognize when your company needs visionary leadership versus operational management. Ready to build something meaningful? Listen now to gain insights that might just transform your entrepreneurial journey. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
What happens when a young man born into the chaos of apartheid South Africa embarks on a spiritual quest that intersects with the counterculture revolution of the 1960s? Michael Shandler's remarkable life story unfolds as he guides us through his transformation from a struggling teen in a violent household to an accomplished author, life coach, and organizational consultant. Growing up Jewish in apartheid South Africa, Michael faced both family dysfunction and societal hostility. His Holocaust-survivor mother and PTSD-affected father created a volatile home environment, while outside, anti-Semitism followed him from school to the South African army. After a pivotal moment where he physically confronted his abusive father—leading to a 16-year estrangement—Michael found himself searching for meaning beyond his restrictive homeland. His path led him through Israel during the aftermath of the Six-Day War, then to Vancouver in 1968, ground zero for consciousness exploration. There, psychedelic experiences opened doors to spiritual awakening, eventually connecting him with Ram Dass (formerly Richard Alpert), who became a profoundly influential mentor. Michael's vivid account of his first mescaline trip, where he surrendered to a "python" of transformative energy, marks the beginning of his conscious spiritual journey. The heart of Michael's story lies in healing and reconciliation. After sixteen years without contact, he reconnected with his father, who offered the wisdom: "If you want a relationship with me, it must begin today and go forward." This present-focused approach to forgiveness gave them sixteen meaningful years together before his father's passing. Michael's journey reminds us that no matter how challenging our circumstances, transformation is possible. Through small steps, self-reflection, and openness to new opportunities, we can transcend our past and create meaning from our struggles. His memoir "Karma and Kismet" offers not just an extraordinary life story, but a roadmap for anyone seeking purpose and healing in their own life. Join the What if it Did Work movement on Facebook Get the Book! www.omarmedrano.com www.calendly.com/omarmedrano/15min…
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