Mick Unplugged

What does it cost to build a life you believe in before other people understand it? Jeff Staple joins Mick Hunt for a candid conversation about creative independence, the business lessons talent cannot replace, and the courage to stop pleasing everybody. Jeff traces the early T-shirt orders that became STAPLE, the decision to leave college, and the strain his choices put on family relationships. He explains why founders need to delegate, how listening to younger perspectives keeps his work relevant, and why a UPS driver's connection to his designs meant more to him than industry recognition. There is warmth and humor, too: five hours with Mike Tyson and his pigeons, a surprising closet answer, and the hidden wing pattern in the Breakneck sneaker. Jeff closes with the lesson he hopes people remember. TAKEAWAYS Give your creative talent the business skills it needs. You cannot grow by trying to do every job yourself. Hear a new idea all the way through before dismissing it. Build a life you believe in without making everybody else's approval the goal. MICK'S BREAKNECK OFFER In the conversation, Mick offers to buy Breakneck shoes for the first ten people who message him “Breakneck.” Mick will confirm whether you are among the first ten and ask your size. Jeff also offers support and discusses signed pairs. Message Mick at https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ and hear the episode for the recorded details. CHAPTERS 00:00 The secret to failure: cold open 00:16 Meet Jeff Staple 02:39 The Because: refusing other people's limits 05:00 T-shirts, necessity, and finding a path 06:22 Talent needs a business: delegation 09:21 Staying relevant by staying curious 13:21 Family expectations and the cost of belief 17:55 Taking care of yourself first 19:00 Simplicity, the UPS driver, and real impact 22:30 Growing beyond T-shirts 24:36 The next chapter: legacy and physical retail 27:55 The Unplugged Five 28:25 Mike Tyson and the pigeons 31:29 Breakneck: city, trail, and hidden pigeon wings 33:36 Mick's Breakneck offer 34:42 Stop trying to please everybody 35:36 Keep the kid in you: the closing CONNECT & DISCOVER JEFF STAPLE: Website: https://www.staplepigeon.com/ Jeff Staple: https://jeffstaple.tv/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffstaple/ FOLLOW MICK Website: https://mickhuntofficial.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunY

What happens when the world talks about you for years before hearing your side? Kordell Stewart joins Mick Hunt for a candid conversation about silence, faith, and reclaiming his own story. The man known as “Slash” reflects on his path from receiver to starting quarterback, the personal cost of rumors, and why telling his story matters to the fans and young people who look up to him. Mick shares what Kordell’s example meant to his family, and Kordell closes with the priorities that have carried him: God, family, and career. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR Why Kordell wanted the opportunity to tell his story in his own words. How he describes the impact of years of rumors and public assumptions. What it took to move between wide receiver and quarterback. Why silence can be misunderstood and how he chooses to respond today. His gratitude toward the fans who stood by him and the young people he coaches. The Unplugged Five: New Orleans food, choosing Colorado, competition, music, and faith. CHAPTERS 00:00 Cold open: the sound of silence 00:17 Welcome to Mick Unplugged 01:06 The Because: telling his own story 04:40 The origin and cost of rumors 14:18 Faith and handling adversity 17:11 Receiver, quarterback, and the work behind Slash 23:44 When silence becomes the story 27:14 Gratitude, grace, and reclaiming his voice 29:49 Giving Kordell his flowers 37:47 The Unplugged Five 42:52 God, family, career Kordell discusses the documentary featured in the interview, his relationship with Pittsburgh, and the responsibility he feels when speaking to the next generation. His recollections and views are presented in his own words. Mick and Kordell also discuss a possible fan gathering. No date, game, or registration details are confirmed in this episode. Connect & Discover Kordell Stewart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kslash10/ X: https://x.com/KSlash10 KORDELL STEWART / SLASH & BURN is now available on HBO Max.  FOLLOW MICK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 How to Be a Good Leader: https://howtobeagoodleader.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mickunplugged Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Mick Hunt Official: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Buy Mick’s book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Leader-When-Youve-Never/dp/1394357958 If this conversation speaks to you, subscribe to Mick Unplugged and share it with someone finding the courage to tell their own story. Your BECAUSE is your superpower. Go unleash it. #mickunplugged #kordellstewart #NFL #resilience

What happens when a creative outlet becomes the thing your family needs? Daniel Nicholson joins Mick Hunt for an in-person conversation about building custom bourbon barrels, finding focus through woodworking, and turning an idea into something real. Daniel shares how a first barrel, a small tool investment, and a change in his family's circumstances pushed him to keep creating. He talks about the value of working with his hands, the support of his wife, and the link between intention and action. The conversation goes deeper into his experience growing up biracial, the importance of honest conversations, and the relationships that opened doors in his career. Daniel and Mick close with mentorship, The Unplugged Five, and a spirited comparison of their favorite bourbons. YOU'LL HEAR Daniel's because: bringing an idea out of his head and into the physical world. How music and art helped him recognize his creative spark. Why woodworking became a personal outlet and then a business opportunity. How he and his wife responded when their family needed another source of income. His experience growing up biracial and why connection starts with conversation. How honesty and relationships helped him move beyond restaurant management. The quiet impact of mentorship, plus cooking questions and bourbon favorites. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Idea, intent, action 00:11 Meet Daniel and the bourbon barrel 03:29 The Because: turning ideas into reality 06:54 The Unplugged Truth: woodworking, family, and action 13:09 The Hot Takes: identity and honest conversations 20:42 The Room: honesty opens doors 25:00 The Unplugged 5: cooking, life, and bourbon 35:00 Connect with Daniel and closing CONNECT  & DISCOVER  DANIEL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbusbarrels/ Daniel recommends finding CBUS Barrels on Facebook for custom builds. FOLLOW MICK Mick Hunt Official: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mickunplugged YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Buy Mick's book: How to Be a Good Leader When You've Never Had One https://www.amazon.com/Good-Leader-When-Youve-Never/dp/1394357958

Rodney Peete knew how to lead a team. Fatherhood asked him to learn a different kind of leadership: listening, letting go of ego, and seeing the world through his son RJ's eyes. In this special episode of Mick Unplugged, the former NFL quarterback joins Mick Hunt for a candid conversation about the beliefs that shaped him, the work behind his talent, and the moment he realized he needed to change his approach as a father. Rodney shares how Holly Robinson Peete's determination helped their family navigate RJ's autism diagnosis and how that journey continues to shape his purpose. At the heart of this release is the HollyRod Foundation and its work supporting families affected by autism and Parkinson's disease. Rodney describes why the foundation began, the need for practical resources and compassion, and the family experiences behind its work. He also discusses the upcoming November 7 DesignCare gala; current details are available from the foundation. IN THIS EPISODE • Why being gifted creates a responsibility to give back • The difference between talent and consistent work • What it means to lead when others need to believe in you • How ego got in the way of connection, and what changed • Why a child needs room to follow his own path • The purpose behind HollyRod and its family support work • Football, family and legacy in The Unplugged Five MICK'S PLEDGE IN THIS EPISODE For the first 100 people who message Mick 'HollyRod,' Mick pledges a $100 donation on each person's behalf to the HollyRod Foundation. He also pledges a personal match. This preserves the pledge as spoken in the recording. No calculated total or additional deadline has been added. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Seeing the world through his son's eyes 00:16 Meet Rodney Peete 02:54 The Because: using his gifts to give back 05:09 Belief, work ethic and the example of his father 10:45 Leading when other people depend on you 15:46 How college football has changed 19:37 Fatherhood, autism and confronting ego 30:44 Not My Boy! and the leadership lesson in compassion 34:23 HollyRod: support for families 38:47 Mick's pledge to the foundation 40:29 The Unplugged Five 46:03 Your because is your superpower CONNECT & DISCOVER RODNEY PEETE HollyRod Foundation, its programs and DesignCare information: https://hollyrod.org/ Rodney's book, Not My Boy!: A Father, A Son, and One Family's Journey with Autism: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/rodney-peete/not-my-boy/9781401395100/ FOLLOW MICK Mick Hunt Official: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Your because is your superpower. Go unleash it.

Landon McKinnis wanted his mom and his kids to be proud of the man he was becoming. That purpose kept him moving as he built GoNutz through rejection, grief, and the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. In this episode of Mick Unplugged, Landon joins me to talk about the because behind his work. He reflects on growing up in Shawnee, Kansas, facing racial discrimination, and finding his own identity. He also shares how faith helped him learn patience when things weren't happening on his timeline. We get into the business journey, too: the first shipment of inventory, a viral TikTok moment, slowing sales, and the Shark Tank email he initially thought was a joke. Landon explains how being prepared helped him respond to the opportunity, what it felt like to pitch the Sharks, and why listening to customers matters. YOU’LL HEAR - The family relationships behind Landon's purpose - How childhood experiences shaped his work ethic and sense of identity - The challenges that followed going viral - Why business records, numbers, and preparation mattered before Shark Tank - What customer feedback taught him about the product he was building - How he stays focused when competitors have bigger budgets and teams - A friendly Kansas City versus Carolina barbecue debate EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Faith, Patience, and Being Ready 00:16 Welcome to Landon McKinnis 01:12 The Because: Family, Purpose, and Making Them Proud 03:47 The Unplugged Truth: Identity, Setbacks, and Faith 09:18 The Hot Takes: Building GoNutz and the Shark Tank Journey 33:46 The Room: The Opportunity That Changed Everything 38:31 The Unplugged 5: Barbecue, Resourcefulness, and Running Your Own Race 43:14 Friendship, GoNutz, and Your Because Put it into practice: Choose one useful step you can take with the resources you have today. Keep your attention on the work in front of you and the people you're doing it for. Follow Mick Unplugged for more conversations about purpose, leadership, and the because behind the work. Connect & Discover Landon McKinnis GoNutz / ORBÉ: https://thegonutz.com/ Founder story: https://thegonutz.com/pages/orbe-story This conversation uses the GoNutz name. The company's current website introduces ORBÉ as its new primary brand. FOLLOW MICK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Book: How to Be a Good Leader When You've Never Had One https://howtobeagoodleader.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Content note: Discussion of grief, racial discrimination, and personal grooming. #mickunplugged #landonmckinnis #gonutz #sharktank #entrepreneurship

This is a previously recorded conversation, returning as a Mick Unplugged re-release. References to upcoming projects reflect the time of recording. Chef André Rush's strength reaches far beyond the kitchen or the gym. In this conversation, the U.S. Army veteran, former White House chef, and mental health advocate shares the mission that keeps him serving others through grief, setbacks, and success. Mick and Chef Rush talk about checking in on the people you love, the stigma around asking for help, and why compassion belongs alongside discipline. Chef Rush reflects on September 11 at the Pentagon, a moment of connection at therapy, and the lessons his parents gave him about hard work and perseverance. The conversation also explores how cooking became his calling, the accountability required inside the White House, and the experiences behind his memoir, Call Me Chef, Dammit! It closes with four rapid-fire questions and an exchange about mentorship, gratitude, and making an impact. You'll Hear - Why a simple conversation can help people feel connected - Chef Rush's answer to “What is your because?” - How personal loss shaped his commitment to children and veterans - His experience of trauma and the difficulty of asking for support - Why encouragement, empathy, and perseverance matter - How military service led him toward a culinary career - Accountability, teamwork, and the White House kitchen - The story behind his memoir and four candid rapid-fire answers CHAPTERS 00:00 Check on each other: the cold open 00:20 Meet Chef André Rush 01:19 Why reaching out matters 03:24 Choosing service and refusing complacency 05:33 His father's lessons on hard work 07:19 The Because: a mission beyond yourself 10:22 Mick on friendship, loss, and connection 13:05 Turning remembrance into a cause 14:13 September 11, the Pentagon, and trauma 17:14 Asking for help and challenging stigma 20:12 A moment of connection at therapy 20:43 Keep going: encouragement and resilience 24:44 How cooking became his calling 32:17 Accountability inside the White House 35:35 The story behind Call Me Chef, Dammit! 40:50 Food, patience, and plans discussed in the recording 42:24 Four rapid-fire questions 44:40 Gratitude, mentorship, and farewell CONNECT & DISCOVER CHEF ANDRÉ RUSH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realchefrush/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefRush TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefrush Website: https://chefrush.com/ Book discussed: Call Me Chef, Dammit! A Veteran's Journey from the Rural South to the White House FOLLOW MICK Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ TikTok: @mickunplugged: https://www.tiktok.com/@mickunplugged Spotify, Mick Unplugged: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Mick Hunt Official: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Buy Mick's book, How to Be a Good Leader When You've Never Had One: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Leader-When-Youve-Never/dp/1394357958 Content note: Discussion of suicide loss, grief, September 11, trauma, and mental health. Contains occasional strong language.

What happens when business experience becomes the foundation for a more personal mission? Adam Zeitsiff joins Mick Hunt to discuss youth fitness, purpose, and the leadership lessons behind building teams that can carry a mission forward. From technology to Gold's Gym and LA Fitness, Adam reflects on the experiences that led him to his work with the Dominique Dawes Academy. He explains why a child's gold medal moment might be learning a cartwheel, gaining confidence, or discovering the value of practice. The conversation also explores the shop-floor example his grandfather set, the importance of asking for help, and why hiring and listening to capable people can change a business. They close with mentorship, lessons Adam wishes he had learned earlier, and The Unplugged Five. YOU'LL HEAR - Why Adam's because is centered on creating better opportunities for children. - How his technology background shaped his work in the fitness industry. - The mission behind helping kids find their own gold medal moments. - What his grandfather taught him about caring for the people on your team. - Why entrepreneurs need to ask for help, listen, and hire strong specialists. - His perspective on AI, mentorship, and the legacy he wants to leave. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The mission behind the work 00:33 Meet Adam Zeitsiff 01:34 The Because: a mission centered on children 05:45 Schools, parents, and physical activity 08:55 The Unplugged Truth: technology meets fitness 11:45 Leading at Gold's Gym 14:32 Two different fitness business models 16:05 Hot Takes: the Dominique Dawes Academy vision 20:43 AI and the human side of fitness 23:17 Finding a child's gold medal moments 25:57 The Room: a grandfather's leadership example 27:56 Asking for help and scaling a business 30:01 Hiring and compensating the right people 32:58 Mentorship and growing leaders from within 34:25 Connecting with the academy 35:11 Leadership lessons learned the hard way 36:46 The Unplugged Five 40:12 Legacy and making a difference CONNECT & DISCOVER Adam Zeitsiff: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-zeitsiff/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/zeitscameraaction/ Dominique Dawes Academy: https://www.dominiquedawesgymnasticsacademy.com/ Academy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dominique-dawes-academy/ Academy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dawesgymnasticsacademy FOLLOW MICK Mick Hunt Official: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ TikTok: @mickunplugged https://www.tiktok.com/@mickunplugged YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: Mick Unplugged https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Buy Mick's book: How to Be a Good Leader When You've Never Had One https://www.amazon.com/Good-Leader-When-Youve-Never/dp/1394357958 Your because is your superpower. Go unleash it. Content note: Contains occasional strong language. Business plans and expansion discussions reflect the time of recording. #mickunplugged #adamzeitsiff #kidsfitness #gymnastics

What does it take to stand in front of a room and make people laugh—even when the room goes quiet? Comedian Mookie G joins Mick for a candid, funny conversation about the work behind the punchline. He shares how his mother recognized his gift for bringing people joy, encouraged him to take a comedy class, and helped him discover his because. Mookie breaks down the difference between being funny online and performing live, the challenge of developing jokes, and why an audience’s silence does not always mean a set has failed. Mick and Mookie also explore authenticity, self-love, social media, and the patience it takes to keep showing up before the right opportunity arrives. Along the way: Houston sports loyalty, growing up in Beaumont, moving to Atlanta, and a rapid-fire conversation about comedy, food, and the legacy Mookie wants to leave. Listen for the purpose beneath the laughter—and the reminder to be yourself. In this episode: • Finding a because in bringing happiness and joy to others • The mother who saw a comedian before he saw it himself • Stage fright, audience energy, and learning to trust silence • Developing material through recorded conversations and real-life experience • Hosting, featuring, and headlining: different jobs, different rhythms • Using social media to build visibility while staying yourself • Self-love, consistency, and being ready for opportunity • Beaumont roots, Atlanta possibility, and a funny and friendly legacy CHAPTERS 00:00 Cold open: becoming comfortable with silence 00:27 Welcome and the comedy show where Mick and Mookie met 02:36 The Because: bringing happiness and joy 03:29 How his mother helped him discover comedy 04:10 Being funny online versus performing on stage 05:36 Tough rooms and protecting your own material 07:42 The Unplugged Truth: developing jokes 11:04 Hosting, featuring, and headlining 12:42 Hot Takes: getting attention and staying yourself 14:05 Building visibility through social media 16:40 Be yourself, self-love, and finding joy 18:23 Houston loyalty and Beaumont roots 22:26 Why Atlanta felt full of possibility 23:49 The Room: the comedy class that changed his path 25:45 Trusting silence and finding your pace 28:45 New projects and getting booked 29:59 Performing your best when opportunity is watching 33:15 Where to find Mookie and the story behind the merch 34:47 The Unplugged Five: comedy, football, and food 38:03 The legacy he wants to leave 39:30 Closing: your because is your superpower Subscribe to Mick Unplugged for conversations about the because behind the journey. Connect & Discover Mookie G: Instagram: @mookie_g_comedy Facebook: @mookiegcomedy Website: mookieg.com                            FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged Book: How to be A Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One

D.L. Hughley wanted one more conversation with his father. He put it into Charlie's Boy. In this episode of Mick Unplugged, D.L. joins me to talk about his new memoir, the man who raised him and the parts of fatherhood he understands differently now. We get into duty, family silence and why providing for your children can become so consuming that being present gets pushed aside. D.L. shares what he learned about Charlie after his death and why he makes a deliberate effort to let his own children know him. I also tell D.L. how his backstage mentorship changed the way I approached my podcast and my business. We talk about knowing the rules, owning your decisions and understanding why people keep listening. You'll hear: - The conversation behind Charlie's Boy - What showing up does for a father-child relationship - The pressure to keep working, even when it costs you time at home - Why finding his way into comedy also brought survivor's guilt - A reunion 25 years after an act of kindness - D.L.'s take on freedom of speech, consequences and protecting your peace I'm giving a copy of Charlie's Boy to the first 100 people who DM "Charlie's Boy" to @mickunplugged on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ CHAPTERS 00:00 The conversation D.L. never had with his father 00:11 Meet D.L. Hughley 00:55 The Because: Faith, hope and connection 04:12 The Unplugged Truth: The father behind Charlie's Boy 07:12 Duty, love and the words fathers do not say 10:36 Why D.L. wrote Charlie's Boy 11:45 Hot Takes: Hurt, offense and growth 14:30 Free speech and consequences 16:22 Fatherhood and the trust built by showing up 21:56 What D.L. learned about Charlie's work life 26:03 The Room: Finding a way forward through comedy 28:02 Survivor's guilt and appreciating your life 29:05 An act of kindness comes back 25 years later 32:06 The backstage advice that changed Mick's approach to media 34:11 Mick's 100-book offer 35:22 The Unplugged Five: What makes D.L. laugh 36:37 The conversation America avoids 37:45 Human connection and why people keep listening 41:34 D.L.'s go-to drinks 42:35 Other people's opinions and protecting your attention 44:27 Closing conversation CONNECT & DISCOVER D.L. HUGHLEY Book: Charlie's Boy: A Memoir https://a.co/d/0bV9x1UZ Instagram: @realdlhughley https://www.instagram.com/realdlhughley/ Facebook: @RealDLHughley https://www.facebook.com/RealDLHughley/ YouTube: DL Hughley https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6B_HuuSaR-IDsKuJVK0LEw FOLLOW MICK Instagram: @mickunplugged https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: @mickhunt https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Book: How to Be a Good Leader When You've Never Had One https://howtobeagoodleader.com/ Apple Podcasts: Mick Unplugged https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/id1731755953 Spotify: Mick Unplugged https://open.spotify.com/show/2cUp7JRzkVqunYmD2ENe4g Content note: Explicit language and discussion of grief and family relationships.

What makes a bottle worth remembering? For Dixon Dedman, the answer starts with the people who share it. The master blender behind 2XO joins Mick Hunt for a conversation about bourbon, hospitality, creative conviction, and the legacy he hopes to leave his children. Dixon explains how his family's hospitality roots shaped his purpose, why blending requires more than mixing percentages, and how he approaches mouthfeel, maturation, and secondary oak exposure. Mick also tastes Rapper's Delight during the conversation, and Dixon shares the story of a father and son celebrating a new generation with a bottle of Kentucky Owl. That moment brings the conversation back to his because: making something that becomes part of another person's meaningful experience. In this episode:  How hospitality shaped Dixon's purpose and approach to bourbon The challenge of reproducing a small sample blend at barrel scale Why creative conviction matters when developing a whiskey His focus on mouthfeel, viscosity, and the overall drinking experience The personal connections that matter beyond awards and ratings His hope that the next generation will carry the family legacy forward Listen for the lesson that travels beyond bourbon: exceeding expectations can turn a product or service into a moment someone remembers. Chapters 00:00 A moment beyond selling bottles 00:40 Meet Dixon Dedman 03:06 What is your because? 07:30 Moments, memories, and personal connection 10:07 Unplugged Truth: the craft of blending 15:20 Putting a personal mark on whiskey 19:27 Hot Takes: tasting Rapper's Delight 22:01 Mouthfeel and the drinking experience 35:00 The Room: a toast to three generations 39:29 2XO and the recorded plans discussed 42:20 Unplugged 5 46:08 The legacy Dixon hopes to leave 48:08 Closing reflections Follow Mick Unplugged for more conversations about purpose, leadership, and the because behind the work. Connect & Discover Dixon Dedman: Instagram: @dixon_dedman LinkedIn: @dixon_dedman X: @dixon_dedman Website: 2xowhiskey.com                          FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged Book: How to be A Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast #DixonDedman #2XOWhiskey

Your next difficult conversation may not need a stronger argument. It may need a better question. In this episode of Mick Unplugged, Mick sits down with his coach, Derek Gaunt, for a personal conversation about the communication skills that changed how Mick leads, negotiates, and approaches conflict. Derek draws on his law-enforcement and hostage-negotiation experience to explain tactical empathy: recognizing another person's perspective without having to agree with it. He breaks down why explaining too early creates resistance, how tone affects a conversation, and why an objection can point to a concern that has not yet been spoken aloud. Mick shares how asking what success looked like to a client uncovered a need he had missed. Derek also discusses the practical ideas behind Fight Less, Win More, the role of curiosity, and why difficult conversations often deserve a phone call instead of another long email. The conversation closes with lessons on coachability, silence, trust, and staying grounded under pressure. In this episode Why acknowledging a perspective is different from agreeing with it. How listening helps uncover the information missing from your assumptions. Why you should ask what success looks like before deciding what someone needs. What a hostage-negotiation training exercise reveals about tone and pressure. How unaddressed concerns can resurface after an agreement. Why Derek encourages live conversation for sensitive back-and-forth discussions. What coachability looks like when someone is already successful. How silence creates space to learn. Takeaways Before your next difficult conversation, replace one assumption with a question. Listen to the answer before preparing your response. Follow Mick Unplugged for more conversations about the because behind how we live, lead, and grow. Chapters 00:00 Meet Derek Gaunt, Mick's coach 03:29 The Because: sharing the gift of communication 05:25 Derek's journey in law enforcement 11:33 The Unplugged Truth: see their perspective 16:44 What does success look like? 19:41 The warning signs you should not ignore 21:45 Hot Takes: tone and pressure in negotiation 28:09 Find the concern beneath the objection 31:05 Why the conversation needs a phone call 35:05 Fight Less, Win More 39:08 The Room: a conversation that changed Derek's path 41:30 What Derek looks for in someone he coaches 45:05 When the skills change your personal life 48:12 The Unplugged Five 53:00 Silence as a negotiation tool 54:17 Trust, training, and final lessons 56:43 Closing Connect & Discover: Instagram: @derekmgaunt LinkedIn: @derek-gaunt-2943a824 Website: The Black Swan Group Book: Fight Less, Win More: How Master Negotiators Influence Hearts, Minds and Deals Clip: 60 Seconds or She Dies                          FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged Book: How to be A Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast #DerekGaunt #Negotiation

This Monday on Mick Unplugged, we’re revisiting Mick Hunt’s conversation with David Pollack about standards, faith, leadership, and the work behind personal growth. David shares how mentorship and his experiences in football shaped the way he approaches challenges, leads others, and keeps growing. Mick and David explore the “50-40-10” principle, why preparation and consistent effort matter, and what it means to hold your standards when your feelings pull you in another direction. Whether you’re hearing this conversation for the first time or returning for another listen, consider where you can put one of these lessons into practice this week. This is a re-release of a previously recorded episode. In this conversation: Choosing standards over feelings. The role of preparation and effort in the “50-40-10” philosophy. Leadership built on care, influence, and understanding the people you lead. How an invitation and a mentor helped shape David’s faith journey. Adapting through challenges and learning from setbacks. Reflection: Where are you letting a temporary feeling make a decision that should be guided by a lasting standard? Follow Mick Unplugged for more conversations about purpose, leadership, and your because. Share this episode with someone who could use it this week. Connect & Discover David Pollack: Instagram: @davidpollack47 Facebook: @PollackFF X: @davidpollack47 YouTube: @DavidPollackCFB Website: davidpollack.com Podcast: See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged Book: How to be A Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast

What happens when you get the house, the car and the things you thought would make you happy, then realize your real dream was already at home? Ms. Pat joins Mick Hunt for a funny, candid conversation about family, authenticity and defining success for yourself. Discussing her memoir, Ms. American Dream, she explains why happiness has no price tag, how she prepared for Hollywood when she did not know the language, and why she thinks of fame as a job rather than an identity. They also explore the money lessons she wants younger generations to learn, the podcast appearances that helped open doors, and the legacy she hopes to leave: keep going and never let someone else tell you who you are. Explicit language. Discussion includes personal experiences with debt and credit, not individualized financial advice. Ms. Pat's purpose is bigger than getting a laugh. She wants people to know that their hardest experiences do not have to hold them down forever. In this episode: The Because: laughter, survival and moving forward after difficult experiences. The Unplugged Truth: why material success did not define her American dream. What home, family and being Patricia mean to her. Preparing for a table read through practice instead of pretending she already knew everything. Why treating people well matters more to her than acting famous. Hot Takes: the credit, interest-rate and saving lessons she shares with family and friends. The Room: trusting her instincts about podcasts before Hollywood called.  The Unplugged Five: food, Atlanta, comedy and the legacy of never giving up. Connect & Discover Ms Pat: Instagram: @comediannemspat Facebook: @mspatcomedy TikTok: @comediannemspat YouTube: @MsPat X: @MsPat Website: mspatcomedy.com Book: Ms. American Dream: A Memoir of Making It No Matter What                            FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

Normal gets normal results. What would happen if you stopped copying your industry and started creating an experience people could not stop talking about? In this Mick Unplugged re-release, Mick Hunt sits down with Jesse Cole for a practical conversation about building a fans-first business. Jesse shares how joy, memorable moments, and a willingness to try what others will not can change the way customers and employees experience your brand. The conversation goes beyond the show on the field. Jesse explains how his team looks for customer friction, why values matter most when they cost you something, and how storytelling keeps a growing organization aligned. He recounts a ticket-email mistake and the decision to make it right, even at what he describes as a $6 million cost to the company. You will also hear why failure can be treated as discovery, how gratitude helps create fans, and why great leaders keep teaching, repeating, and getting their reps in. If you lead a team, serve customers, or are building something of your own, this conversation will challenge you to stop settling for ordinary. This is a re-release of an archival conversation. References to team counts, tours, ticket demand, and projects reflect the time of recording. The big idea Being different is not the goal by itself. Creating an experience people remember, talk about, and want to share is the goal. Jesse Cole explains how he uses that distinction to lead, generate ideas, and build a fans-first culture.  In this episode - Jesse's deeper purpose: bringing people together through joy. - Why copying the normal practices of an industry tends to produce normal results. - How to identify friction in everyday customer interactions, from invoices to the live experience. - The "you wouldn't believe" test for a memorable moment. - Why a company's values need to show up in decisions, not just on the wall. - Jesse's account of an email mistake and a costly ticket commitment. - How repeated stories and team recognition reinforce culture. - Why watching customer behavior can reveal more than asking for opinions. - The setbacks behind ambitious ideas and the discipline of continuing to improve. - Gratitude as a daily practice for leaders, employees, and customers. - Why great leaders teach, repeat, and practice communicating. Put it into practice Choose one ordinary interaction in your business. Find the friction. Write down three ways to make the experience more useful, surprising, or memorable. Then thank one person who has helped you build what you have. Chapters 00:00 Why this conversation is a business masterclass 00:40 Welcome to Mick Unplugged 01:39 Jesse's because: bringing people together with joy 03:38 Bring the energy and make moments matter 04:23 Why normal gets normal results 07:51 Find the friction and create memorable experiences 09:50 Making fans-first values real 10:13 The ticket mistake and the cost of doing right 13:13 Storytelling and a culture that scales 15:26 Reinvention without losing your direction 16:19 Build the best experience and watch your fans 18:53 The setbacks behind the show 21:17 Inspiration, energy, and doing hard things 22:41 Gratitude and creating fans 24:28 Great leaders teach and get their reps in 26:53 Creativity, speaking, and sharing the journey 29:36 Quick questions: yellow tuxes, big moments, and lessons 31:21 The daily creativity routine 31:51 Jesse's message about legacy 33:13 Your because is your superpower Connect & Discover Jesse Cole: Instagram: @yellowtuxjesse LinkedIn: @yellowtuxjesse Facebook: @jesse.cole.129 TikTok: @yellowtuxjesse YouTube: @yellowtuxjesse Website: findyouryellowtux.com Savannah Bananas: thesavannahbananas.com Non-Profit: bananasfoster.org Books: Fans First              Banana Ball              Find Your Yellow Tux FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged #mickunplugged #jessecole #thesavannahbananas #fansfirst #leadership

In this episode of Mick Unplugged, Justin, The Real Food Stalker, sits down with Mick Hunt and unpacks the unglamorous work behind a following that grew without a single negative review. He started Food Stalker in 2010 with nothing but photos and a habit of asking waiters what the next table ordered. He did not eat on camera until 2021, when his kids told him he made food look too good not to. He paid for every meal himself long before a brand ever called. Mick opens up about his own start, too. When he was still a LinkedIn-only guy two and a half years ago, Justin was the first account he followed on Instagram, and watching Justin be unapologetically himself is what convinced Mick he did not have to perform to show up online. The conversation runs from microwave burgers to a lost footrace to a sister who brought home teriyaki wings and accidentally created a food critic. But the through line is simple and it applies far past food: you do not have to be the most talented person in the room. You have to be the one who keeps showing up. IN THIS EPISODE Why Justin never posts food he does not like How Food Stalker started in 2010 and became a camera habit in 2021 Why consistency beats talent in every arena The phone-and-CapCut workflow behind every video The three thousand dollar camera he never used How the AJC writing opportunity changed the way he describes food Why honesty and negativity are not the same thing The sister whose leftovers built his palate What brands get wrong when they buy three videos instead of a partner Why he says he has people, not fans or followers CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:55 How Justin got Mick on Instagram 03:10 The Because 03:50 Why he only shows food he likes 05:20 From 2010 photos to eating on camera 06:49 The Unplugged Truth 07:21 Consistency is everything 09:48 Fans, followers, or your people 09:51 The gear: phones, CapCut and one take 13:07 Writing for the AJC 17:40 Hot Takes 17:57 The microwave burger debate 21:42 The race he lost to his nephew 27:02 The Room 27:26 The sister who changed his taste buds 29:55 Vegan mac and cheese 33:03 How Mick Unplugged started 36:48 The Unplugged Five 43:29 What Justin wants the world to know 46:36 Where to follow Justin 48:05 Closing Connect & Discover Justin Brown: Instagram: @therealfoodstalker Facebook: @The-Real-Food-Stalker TikTok: @therealfoodstalker YouTube: @therealfoodstalker LinkedIn: @justintherealfoodstalker FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

What if the problem is not your content, your reach, or the algorithm? What if the real problem is that you are trying to be social instead of becoming unmistakably yourself? In this Mick Unplugged re-release, Mick Hunt sits down with Gary Vaynerchuk, known worldwide as Gary Vee, for a direct conversation about interest media, authentic personal branding, accountability, gratitude, and the discipline required to build something that lasts. Gary explains why intent matters more than tactics, why audiences can sense when a creator is only trying to sell, and why the only niche no one else can copy is you. He also shares how staying close to culture helps him see shifts before they become obvious, why blaming other people keeps us stuck, and why winning should make us more compassionate, not more bitter. This is not a conversation about shortcuts. It is a reminder to get back in the trenches, live within your values, protect your energy, and take responsibility for the life and work you want to build. Note: This episode contains explicit language. In this episode, you will learn: - Why social platforms are increasingly organized around interests instead of existing social connections - Why genuine intent can matter more than a perfect content strategy - How staying close to culture helps Gary form original points of view - Why the only truly defensible personal-brand niche is being fully yourself - How accountability changes your relationship with money, work, and opportunity - Why limiting negative inputs can help you rebuild your energy - How to respond when people close to you struggle with your success - Why Gary believes collecting and live social shopping will keep growing Chapters 00:00 Interest media and the conversation ahead 00:30 Gary Vee joins Mick 02:52 Gary's deeper purpose and the power of gratitude 05:36 Consistency through cultural and political change 08:32 Why intent matters more than the transaction 10:56 Measuring 45 times before cutting once 14:29 The more you become yourself, the more you win 16:19 Personal brand, garage sales, and serving people at every level 18:21 From social media to interest media 23:05 Remote work, entitlement, and changing expectations 27:09 Money choices, humility, and personal accountability 28:56 When you need to move your feet 29:19 Protecting your energy from negative inputs 33:07 Compassion for the people who boo your success 34:46 Gary's vision for VeeFriends and collectibles 38:16 The VeeFriends quiz and closing challenge Connect & Discover Gary Vee: Instagram: @garyvee YouTube: @GaryVee TikTok: @garyvee Facebook: @gary X: @garyvee LinkedIn: @garyvaynerchuk Website: garyvaynerchul.com FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

Darryl Strawberry's story is bigger than baseball. In this deeply personal episode of Mick Unplugged, Darryl opens up about the mother who raised five children alone, the pain of an absent and abusive father, the cost of success without healing, and the freedom he found through forgiveness. Darryl shares why talent and fame could not repair what was broken inside him. He reflects on addiction, consequences, discipline, ministry, marriage, and the moment he finally forgave his father at his bedside. Mick also shares how Darryl's book, Another Life, helped him process his own relationship with his late father and begin thinking differently about forgiveness and self-forgiveness. The conversation moves from baseball to faith, but the central lesson is universal: your past does not disqualify your purpose, and the way you start does not have to determine the way you finish. IN THIS EPISODE • Why Darryl's mother became the foundation of his resilience • How proving his father wrong fueled his early ambition • Why success exposes who you are • The consequences Darryl could not outrun • How forgiving his father gave him freedom • Why Tracy's boundaries helped redirect his life • The difference between talent, identity, and purpose • What Another Life reveals about healing and faith • Why Darryl believes it is not how you start, but how you finish • The legacy he wants to leave for his children MICK'S BOOK OFFER Mick is purchasing 50 copies of Darryl Strawberry's new book, Another Life, for members of the Mick Unplugged community. To request a copy, message Mick the words "another life" on LinkedIn or Instagram. The offer is limited to the first 50 eligible responses and is available while supplies last. BOOK Another Life: Discovering the Healing Power of Purpose on My Long Journey from Player to Preacher Darryl Strawberry https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Another-Life/Darryl-Strawberry/9781637748848 CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 02:16 The Because 02:54 Darryl's purpose and the mother who never quit 07:15 Success exposes who you are 10:07 The Unplugged Truth 11:39 Forgiving his father 17:38 Hot Takes 21:11 Discipline, faith, and ministry 24:23 The Room 27:15 Another Life 29:54 Mick's 50-book giveaway 31:34 The Unplugged Five 32:46 The legacy Darryl wants to leave 33:17 Closing Connect & Discover Darryl: Instagram: @darrylstrawberry18 Website: darrylstrawberry18.com Facebook: @therealdarrystrawberry Threads: @darrylstrawberry18 Book: Another Life: Discovering the Healing Power of Purpose on My Long Journey from Player to Preacher Strawberry Ministries: @livingrestored FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast #darrylstrawberry

The most powerful move in business is not always saying yes. Sometimes it is knowing when to walk away. Daymond John joins Mick Hunt for a candid conversation about the decisions that shape a business and a life. The FUBU founder and Shark Tank investor explains why his deeper purpose is “because I should,” how mentors can save us from painful mistakes and why growing too quickly can quietly destroy what an entrepreneur worked to build. Daymond also opens up about his health journey after cancer and the discipline of making gradual, sustainable change. He shares how he thinks about investing through his “My Money, Homie” framework, why he supports artists without asking for anything in return and how a five-to-seven-person filter helps him decide what belongs on social media. This episode is a sharp, funny and personal masterclass in protecting your time, choosing the right people and refusing opportunities that no longer respect your value. Daymond’s message is clear: get narrow, go deep and keep the power to walk away. IN THIS EPISODE • Why Daymond’s deeper purpose is “because I should” • How dyslexia, business and cancer shaped his perspective • Why mentors and mistakes are the two great teachers • How scaling too fast can weaken a business • The difference between purpose-driven and return-driven investments • Why Daymond supports artists without asking for anything back • The five-to-seven-person filter behind his social media decisions • Why too many opportunities can become a liability • How walking away protects your value • Why a small, trusted inner circle can outperform a massive network CHAPTERS 00:00 Mentors or mistakes 01:38 Meet Daymond John 03:38 “Because I should” 06:04 What Daymond had to overcome 08:13 Fasting, discipline and gradual change 12:09 Cancer and the decision to study health 16:44 Why mentors matter 20:15 Don’t scale too fast 23:50 “My Money, Homie” and smarter investing 28:47 Supporting artists with no strings attached 33:16 The two-year-old turkey leg debate 35:29 Daymond’s five-to-seven-person filter 39:34 Drowning in opportunity 41:15 The power to walk away 41:30 Quick Five 43:39 Go narrow and deep 43:53 Leadership and what Daymond is building 46:22 Closing Connect with Daymond John: Website: daymondjohn.com Instagram: @thesharkdaymond LinkedIn: @daymondjohn YouTube: @TheSharkDaymond Facebook: @TheSharkDaymond FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast #daymondjohn

Mick sits down with licensed therapist, mental health advocate and author Kier Gaines for a direct conversation about emotional honesty, uncomfortable truths and the courage to begin. Kier explains why saying "you hurt my feelings" can be an act of strength, especially for men who have been conditioned to hide emotion. He and Mick unpack avoidance, awareness, curiosity, boundaries, professional value and why credentials still matter in a culture that often rewards visibility over expertise. Kier also shares the barber shop conversation that helped him recognize his mind as a valuable tool for change. He explains why his book, It All Starts When You Do, rejects shallow positivity and invites readers into the real work of self-healing. This conversation is honest, practical and deeply human. It is about telling the truth, protecting what matters and taking the first step before you feel completely ready. IN THIS EPISODE • Why emotional honesty is a form of authority, not weakness • How to move beyond surface-level wellness • Why awareness and curiosity are the first two steps toward change • The connection between boundaries, business and self-respect • Why credentials create accountability, safety and protection • How attention and notoriety can weaken integrity • The barber shop conversation that changed Kier's view of his work • Why "walking away from what does not serve you" can become avoidance • The meaning of an authentic and consistent legacy MICK'S BOOK OFFER As discussed in the episode, the first 20 people who message Mick with the words "I'm starting" will receive a copy of It All Starts When You Do, purchased by Mick. Available while the offer remains open and supplies last. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Attention Economy and Integrity 00:24 Meet Kier Gaines 01:00 Saying "You Hurt My Feelings" 04:46 The Because: Because Why Not? 07:01 Why Surface-Level Wellness Is Not Enough 10:14 It All Starts When You Do 14:12 Two Ways to Start Healing 18:15 Boundaries, Business and the Cost of Free 23:53 Hot Takes: Credentials, Safety and Anti-Intellectualism 34:13 The Room: A Barber Shop Conversation That Changed Everything 37:43 The Book, the Podcast and Mick's Offer 40:15 The Unplugged Five 44:03 Legacy, Authenticity and Kept Promises 46:00 Closing Connect & Discover Kier: Instagram: @kiergaines Instagram: @learnedthehardwaypod LinkedIn: @kiergaines   Podcast: Learned the Hard Way with Kier Gaines Facebook: @kiergaines TikTok: @kiergaines Book: It All Starts When You Do Threads: @kiergaines FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

Discussion about service, patriotism, faith, leadership, technology, and the responsibility to leave no one behind. Governor Moore explains why "service saved me," beginning with the mentors, teachers, coaches, ministers, aunties, and uncles who saw his potential before he could see it himself. He reflects on losing his father at age three, wearing handcuffs by eleven, being sent to military school, and eventually discovering that leadership is not about individual achievement. It is about lifting as we climb. The conversation then turns to the meaning of American patriotism. Governor Moore draws a sharp distinction between patriotism and nationalism, arguing that faith, not fear, is the foundation of a more perfect union. He and Mick also discuss Maryland's public-safety progress, service-year opportunities, apprenticeships, cannabis pardons, energy affordability, AI, data-center accountability, and why technological progress must include guardrails and public trust. IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 Mick’s most important conversation 02:05 Governor Moore’s “Because”: service saved me 04:39 Running away from military school 06:37 The Unplugged Truth: a speech that moved Mick’s family 08:41 Faith, fear, patriotism, and nationalism 13:22 God’s grace and moral leadership 15:21 Hot Takes: Maryland’s progress through collaboration 20:49 Energy affordability, AI, and data-center guardrails 28:55 The Room: you belong because the room needs you 33:11 The Unplugged Five and a legacy of compassion FEATURED SPEECH Watch Governor Wes Moore's July 4, 2026 address, "The Work of Patriotism": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfLQy82IsWo Read the official transcript: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/speeches/work-patriotism Connect & Discover Governor Wes Moore: Website: theofficeofgovernorwesmoore.com LinkedIn: @iamwesmoore X: @iamwesmoore Facebook: @iamwesmoore Instagram: @iamwesmoore FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

What if one of the most important ingredients in a healthy life isn’t actually on your plate? In this episode of Mick Unplugged, Mick Hunt sits down with Emmy Award-winning chef, bestselling author, restaurateur, and Giadzy founder Giada De Laurentiis for a joyful conversation about food, family, entrepreneurship, community, and la dolce vita. Giada shares how a shy young chef learned to tell stories to millions of viewers, why audience feedback transformed her into a stronger teacher, and how her desire to cut through the noise of the food industry became the foundation for Giadzy. She explains what makes high-quality Italian ingredients different, why Giadzy’s gluten-free pasta surprised even her, and how small Italian producers helped inspire a growing lifestyle marketplace. The conversation goes beyond cooking. Giada explains why the people at your table can affect how you experience and digest a meal, why joy and connection belong in the conversation about longevity, and how she is bringing her businesses together through her new Chicagoland restaurant, Sorella by Giada. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • How Giada overcame shyness and learned to teach through storytelling • Why repetition and audience feedback are essential to becoming a great teacher • How Giadzy grew from a blog into a marketplace for Italian pantry products • What makes bronze-cut, slow-dried Italian pasta different • Why Giadzy’s gluten-free pasta became an unexpected breakthrough product • How stress, connection, and the people at your table shape the experience of food • Why la dolce vita is more than indulgence—it is part of health and longevity • How Giada is connecting her media, product, and restaurant businesses LISTENER OFFER / FEATURED PROMOTION ACTIVE LISTENER OFFER 1 — The next 20 people who DM “GIADZY” to @mickunplugged on Instagram receive a $100 Giadzy gift card. ACTIVE LISTENER OFFER 2 — The first 20 people who DM “SUPER ITALIAN” to @mickunplugged on Instagram receive a copy of Giada’s Super-Italian cookbook. CHAPTERS 00:00 — Giada’s impact on Mick and learning to tell stories on television 03:37 — What’s your because? 08:49 — The Unplugged Truth: how Giada changed Mick’s relationship with pasta 12:58 — Building Giadzy from audience feedback 15:28 — The unexpected success of gluten-free pasta 20:59 — Hot Takes: cauliflower rice, coconut, and food trends 23:46 — The secret ingredient: joy, connection, and la dolce vita 26:16 — Sorella by Giada and bringing the businesses together 28:51 — The Unplugged Five 31:23 — Super-Italian, Mick’s cookbook offer, and the send-off Connect & Discover Giada: Website: giadadelaurentiis.com Website: giadzy.com Instagram: @giadadelaurentiis Facebook: @giada X: @GDeLaurentiis TikTok: @giadadelaurentiis YouTube: @gdelaurentiis Cookbook: Super-Italian FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

What if the exhaustion you feel isn’t burnout at all? Success coach, keynote speaker, and Dream Think Do host Mitch Matthews joins Mick Hunt for a conversation about purpose, clarity, action, and the hidden problem affecting many high achievers: being “bored out.” Mitch shares how a bad-fit corporate promotion began extinguishing his fire, how his wife helped him recognize the work he was born to do, and how he built a coaching and speaking business that surpassed his income in just five months. He also explains why a small injection of novelty can restore energy, why dreaming bigger must be paired with experimentation, and how to move from comparison and fear toward learning and love. In this episode: • Mitch’s “Because”: loving God, loving his family, and encouraging encouragers • The clues that revealed his calling • Why action separates great from exceptional • Building an “authority bridge” without blowing up your life • The difference between burnout and being bored out • How 15 minutes of novelty can reignite your fire • Why successful people struggle to name their own dreams • Giving yourself permission to experiment • Reframing imposter syndrome as “winner’s syndrome” • The five-word prayer that changed how Mitch entered important rooms LISTENER OFFER / FEATURED PROMOTION FREE TRAINING — Make Time for Your Next Chapter Visit: https://www.mitchmatthews.com/time Use code: MICK CHAPTERS 00:00 - Meet Mitch Matthews 01:39 - Mitch’s “Because” and encouraging encouragers 08:39 - The bad-fit job that extinguished his fire 14:31 - Building an authority bridge without blowing up your life 16:34 -Burnout vs. “bored out” 23:13 - Dream bigger and act on it 27:08 - Clarity, permission, and experimentation 34:27 - The room that transformed comparison into learning 40:54 - The Unplugged Five 45:50 - Generosity, legacy, and Mitch’s free gift Connect & Discover Mitch Matthews: Website: mitchmatthews.com Free Training: mitchmatthews.com/time. Use Code MICK LinkedIn: @mitchmatthews Instagram: @mitch.matthews Facebook: @mitch.matthews.104 Podcast: Dream Think Do FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

What happens when the uniform comes off but the mission is far from over? In this episode of Mick Unplugged, Mick Hunt sits down with Marine Raider veteran, entrepreneur, author, and leadership strategist Nicholas Koumalatsos for a direct conversation about purpose, identity, leadership, confidence, fatherhood, and building businesses that create real impact. Nicholas shares how childhood scarcity shaped his “because,” why military leadership does not automatically translate to every part of civilian life, and what it took to rebuild his identity after service. He also explains the formula he lives by, commitment plus courage creates confidence and challenges the online leadership industry to show its receipts. The conversation moves from the hard truths of veteran transition to the origin and extraordinary growth of Johnny Slicks, Nicholas’s work through The Agoge, and the ideas behind Excommunicated Warrior and Reclaiming the Man Within. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • Why confidence is the result, not the prerequisite of taking action • How commitment creates the courage required to move forward • Why leadership must be adapted to the person, environment, and mission • What veterans often lose when the uniform and built-in mission disappear • How Nicholas turned an unexpected moment into the foundation of Johnny Slicks • Why defining “done” and reverse-engineering phase lines improves execution • How presence, fatherhood, and legacy reshape the meaning of success CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction 01:13 - Nicholas’s “because” and the roots of his mission 04:44 - Learning leadership in the Marine Corps 05:24 - Why military leadership can be one-dimensional 10:22 - The Unplugged Truth: the uniform is gone, but the mission isn’t over 11:29 - The biggest myth about leadership 18:16 - Hot Takes 19:12 - Why confidence comes last 21:50 - Commitment + courage = confidence 22:32 - AI, online gurus, and showing the receipts 25:08 - Partnership, family, and building a legacy 28:50 - Who are you uniquely qualified to help? 30:32 - The Room: the moment that launched Johnny Slicks 33:42 - Scaling from no structure to eight figures 36:01 - Johnny Slicks 36:31 - Excommunicated Warrior 39:43 - What if your next chapter is your best chapter? 42:35 - Reclaiming the Man Within 44:09 - The Unplugged Five 44:55 - Define “done” and reverse-engineer the mission 45:47 - Fatherhood and being present 47:56 - The one-word legacy answer 49:05 - Closing Connect & Discover Nick: Website: nickkoumalatsos.com Facebook: @NickKoumalatsos82 Instagram: @nickkoumalatsos LinkedIn: @nick-koumalatsos X: @NickKoumalatsos YouTube: @NickKoumalatsos82 Website: johnnyslicks.com Book: Excommunicated Warrior: The 7 Stages of Transition Book: Reclaiming the Man Within   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged

André Holland has built an acclaimed career through performances in Moonlight, Selma, The Knick, High Flying Bird, and more—but his deepest calling reaches far beyond the screen. In this conversation with Mick Hunt, André shares how his parents and his Bessemer, Alabama community taught him to move with integrity, care for his gifts, and stay shoulder to shoulder with the people who helped him flourish. He opens up about the teacher who made him feel truly seen, the responsibility he feels to create opportunities for emerging voices, and why commitment is the word he hopes will define his life. André also discusses They Fight, his preparation as a character actor, Harper Road, and the Holland Project’s restoration of Bessemer’s historic Lincoln Theatre. This is a conversation about calling, craft, second chances, community, and planting trees whose fruit may belong to the next generation. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • Why André describes storytelling and service as a calling • How his parents and Alabama roots shaped his civic responsibility • Why opportunity—not a lack of talent—often separates people from their potential • The NYU classroom moment that changed André’s view of his own stories • How he approaches character work with research, vulnerability, and faith • Why They Fight resonated with him as a story of mentorship and second chances • How the Holland Project and Harper Road are creating room for new voices • Why “committed” is the word André wants attached to his legacy LISTENER OFFER / FEATURED PROMOTION Watch They Fight on Hulu: https://www.hulu.com/movie/they-fight-a1bba82e-2550-4ffc-81df- b973b9c85339 Discover the Holland Project and Lincoln Theatre restoration: https://www.birminghamtimes.com/2024/10/renovating-bessemers-lincoln-theatre-andre-hollands-next- act/ CHAPTERS Timing is grounded in the supplied transcript. Reconfirm against the final uploaded master after correcting the intro-name issue. • 00:00 — Welcome to Mick Unplugged • 01:44 — André’s Because: answering the call • 04:25 — Family, faith, and growing up in Alabama • 06:19 — Bessemer, opportunity, and giving back • 07:44 — The Unplugged Truth: becoming a symbol of hope • 12:58 — They Fight, second chances, and the craft of acting • 18:48 — The Room: the teacher who truly saw André • 23:11 — Creating rooms through the Holland Project and Harper Road • 29:18 — The Unplugged Five • 32:20 — Supporting André’s work and closing thoughts Connect & Discover André Holland: Instagram: @andreholland X: @AndreHolland_ The Holland Project — Historic Lincoln Theatre: alabamalincoln.com Lincoln Theatre on Instagram: @bamalincoln Support the Restoration (Donate): Give to the Lincoln Theatre Watch They Fight on Hulu: hulu.com/movie/they-fight FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Don't apologize for who you are... because you were made that way for a reason. Comedian Leslie Jones, renowned for her groundbreaking work on Saturday Night Live, shares how embracing her authentic self propelled her career. This episode delivers valuable insights on personal branding and navigating the entertainment industry with conviction. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - 3 key mindsets for creative success - Why Hollywood resilience is essential - 5 strategies for maintaining authenticity - How comedy connects 2 different worlds - Building a personal brand foundation QUOTES THAT HIT "You have to stay true to who you are, because that’s what makes you unique." - Leslie Jones "The biggest lesson SNL taught me was how to trust my own voice." - Leslie Jones "Failure isn't the end, it's just a different way to get where you need to be." - Leslie Jones CHAPTERS 00:00 Leslie Jones' Path to SNL 07:15 The Art of Stand-Up Comedy 15:30 Authenticity in Entertainment 22:45 Navigating Hollywood Challenges 30:00 Leslie's Creative Process 38:10 The FCKRY Podcast Journey 45:00 Future Vision for Black Women 52:00 Leslie Shares Closing Thoughts QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How does Leslie Jones maintain authenticity in her career? A: Leslie Jones emphasizes staying true to herself by not apologizing for her unique perspective and embracing the qualities that set her apart, believing this authenticity is what resonates with audiences. Q: What key lesson did Leslie Jones learn from Saturday Night Live? A: She learned the importance of trusting her own voice and comedic instincts, which allowed her to develop and deliver material that truly reflected her personality and experiences. Q: Why is resilience crucial for success in the entertainment industry? A: Leslie Jones explains that resilience is vital because the industry involves numerous rejections and setbacks, and the ability to persist through these challenges is what ultimately leads to breakthroughs and sustained success. Connect & Discover Leslie Jones: Facebook: @Lesdoggg Instagram: @lesdogggg Website: justleslie.com X: @Lesdoggg YouTube: @lesdogggg TikTok: @lesdoggggg Book: Leslie F*cking Jones FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged #MickUnplugged #Leadership #Podcast #LeslieJones See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Because the best things in life are on the other side of difficult conversations. Mick Hunt welcomes Kwame Christian, CEO of the American Negotiation Institute, who reveals how to approach difficult conversations to change your business and life. This episode will equip you with a new negotiation framework. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The 3 Core Skills for better negotiation - How to avoid the "why" question trap - Building the "undeniable" personal brand - Why the entire sales process is negotiation - The power of Compassionate Curiosity framework QUOTES THAT HIT "Because the best things in life are on the other side of difficult conversations." - Kwame Christian "There's a big difference between being liked and being respected. Those are not the same thing." - Kwame Christian "My goal isn't to be good, my goal isn't to be recognized, my goal is to be undeniable." - Kwame Christian "The harder we push, the harder they push back." - Kwame Christian CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome Kwame Christian to Mick Unplugged 02:18 Kwame Christian's Life Purpose: "Because" 04:54 Overcoming People-Pleasing With Mentorship 10:02 Why Avoiding "Why" Questions Improves Conversations 13:55 The Importance of Deep Knowledge and Credentials 19:48 Empathy and Humility in Negotiation 24:10 Convincing Others By Empowering Self-Persuasion 31:39 Compassionate Curiosity Negotiation Framework 35:23 The Origin of Kwame Christian's Negotiation Journey 37:46 Big Swings Only: New Podcast Announcement 43:27 Rapid Fire: Cooking, Loyalty, and Inspiration QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How does a leader improve their negotiation skills? A: You need to recognize that negotiation requires three core skills: becoming a better listener, asking better questions, and managing your own and others' emotions. Q: Why should leaders avoid asking "why" questions in difficult conversations? A: The word "why" is often associated with judgment and criticism, triggering defensive responses and preventing open communication. Instead, use "what" or "how" questions to gather information. Q: What is the compassionate curiosity framework in negotiation? A: The compassionate curiosity framework has three steps: acknowledge and validate emotions, ask open-ended questions with compassion, and engage in joint problem-solving. Connect & Discover Kwame: Instagram: @kwamenegotiates Podcast: Negotiate Anything Website: kwamechristian.com LinkedIn: @kwamechristian X: @KwameNegotiates TikTok: @kwamenegotiates YouTube: @TheKwameChristian Book: Finding Confidence in Conflict FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FIRE LINE: "Being great was not just going to happen because I was extremely talented." Sanya Richards-Ross, an Olympic Gold medalist and track and field icon, shares her leadership insights on intentionality, the 400-meter race strategy, and her impactful work with mothers. This episode will equip business leaders with actionable frameworks for sustained excellence. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - 3 "Because Statements" for daily drive - Sanya Richards-Ross' 4 Ps strategy for success - Impact of early mentorship on an athlete - Balancing physical and mental discipline - Why "MommiNation Gives" supports black moms QUOTES THAT HIT "No, baby. Do you really want to be great?" - Sanya Richards-Ross "I want to always see myself beyond being a track and field athlete." - Sanya Richards-Ross "You're impacting the life of a family." - Sanya Richards-Ross CHAPTERS 00:00 Defining Sanya's Three Becausals 03:06 Early Beginnings of "Because I Can" 07:30 Unplugged Truth about 400m Dominance 19:00 Intentionality Beyond Track and Field 22:07 The Vision for Beyond the Curve 24:15 Dad's Car Conversation: The Greatness Room 31:10 Mission of Mommy Nation Gives 34:58 Unplugged Five Rapid Fire QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What was Sanya Richards-Ross's strategy for winning the 400-meter race? A: Sanya Richards-Ross utilized the "four P's" strategy: Push, Pace, Position, and Poise, along with a silent "Pray" for the final hundred meters, which she also applies to life. Q: How did Sanya Richards-Ross prepare for her career transition after track and field? A: Sanya Richards-Ross was intentional about her transition for two years before retirement, thinking about how her athletic skills would serve her next, leading her to pursuits in television, writing, and family. Q: What is the main goal of Sanya Richards-Ross's nonprofit, MommiNation Gives? A: MommiNation Gives supports Black moms on their motherhood journey, helping homeless mothers and families affected by the black maternal mortality crisis by providing resources and community. Connect & Discover Sanya Richards-Ross: Website: sanyarichardsross.com Foundation: MommiNation.com Instagram: @sanyarichiross Facebook: @sanyarichards YouTube: @sani400 TikTok: @sanyarichiross FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I wouldn't have the skillset I needed had any of that happened, and I would have squandered it. In this Mick Unplugged episode, entrepreneur Tim Rexius, CEO of Rexius Nutrition, reveals how his "DAD" philosophy drives successful business growth. Tim promises to share crucial lessons on leadership, wealth generation, and family integration in entrepreneurship. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - Tim Rexius' "DAD" philosophy - Work-life integration for entrepreneurs - Business growth strategies - The value of lifelong learning - The benefits of creatine QUOTES THAT HIT "There is no work-life balance. That doesn't exist, it's a myth. But I've made my life my work and I've brought my kids and my family into every step of the process." - Tim Rexius "I was like, you know, I don't think the answer is having more employees. I think the answer is having more partners." - Tim Rexius "The average protein snack can take two hours to digest this popcorn six minutes." - Tim Rexius CHAPTERS 00:00 Tim Rexius' "Because" 02:12 Entrepreneurial Mindset Philosophy 04:12 More Partners, Fewer Employees 11:30 Tim Rexius' Business Strategy 21:54 Rexius Nutrition Products 25:23 Building Omaha Protein Popcorn 39:02 A Life-Changing Room 41:18 Rapid Fire Hot Five QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What is Tim Rexius's "DAD" philosophy for entrepreneurs? A: Tim Rexius's "DAD" philosophy stands for Discipline, Action, and Dedication, which he emphasizes are crucial for entrepreneurial success and overcoming challenges. Q: How did Tim Rexius develop Omaha Protein Popcorn? A: Tim Rexius developed Omaha Protein Popcorn by experimenting with 600 batches to create a high-quality, protein-rich snack that could appeal to children and athletes, and later adapted its marketing based on consumer feedback. Q: What is Tim Rexius's advice on work-life balance for entrepreneurs? A: Tim Rexius believes "work-life balance" is a myth, advocating instead for "work-life integration" by involving family in business endeavors and shared goals. Connect & Discover Tim: Instagram: @timothy_d_rexius Website: timrexius.com LinkedIn: @timothy-rexius Facebook: @tim.rexius YouTube: @timothydrexius 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 To lead others, you must first master yourself, that's the ultimate success code. High-performance coach Brandon Epstein, author of "The Success Code," helps professionals unlock their peak performance. This episode reveals how to rewire your identity for sustained success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The 3 pillars of performance identity - How to access flow states for peak results - 5 strategies for subconscious block removal - The role of mindset in elite achievement - Actionable steps to create your success code QUOTES THAT HIT "Your identity dictates your reality." - Brandon Epstein "Performance isn't just what you do, it's who you are." - Brandon Epstein "Subconscious blocks are often the invisible ceiling for success." - Brandon Epstein CHAPTERS 00:00 Unlocking Brandon Epstein's Success Code 05:15 Rewiring Identity for Peak Performance 12:30 Accessing Flow States in Business 20:05 Removing Subconscious Blocks Effectively 28:40 The 3 Pillars of High Performance 35:00 Practical Steps for Identity Shifts 42:10 Sustained Excellence Principles QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What is the primary role of identity in high performance? A: Identity defines your capabilities and beliefs, fundamentally shaping your actions and results. If you identify as someone who achieves, you will act accordingly. Q: How can entrepreneurs enter a flow state consistently? A: Consistently entering a flow state involves optimizing your environment, having clear goals, and honing your skills to meet challenges, allowing for deep, effortless focus. Q: Why is it crucial to address subconscious blocks for leaders? A: Subconscious blocks often unknowingly limit a leader's potential by creating self-sabotaging patterns and preventing them from operating at their highest level of effectiveness. Connect & Discover Brandon: Instagram: @brandonepstein LinkedIn: Brandon Epstein Website: thebrandonepstein.com Book: The Success Code YouTube: @RewiredMethod  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Winning ain't for everybody because people aren't willing to put in the work and discipline. Mick Hunt welcomes entrepreneur and content creator Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples) to discuss self-mastery, strategic decision-making, and why peace of mind should be your ultimate goal. This episode challenges traditional notions of success and offers insights on living authentically. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The critical role of "no" in personal growth - How 5-10 "yeses" can change your life - Why peace of mind matters more than loyalty - Understanding the biggest business in the world: fear - The importance of auditing your inner circle QUOTES THAT HIT "I started committing crimes because I wanted to be accepted by some people that I thought was cool, that was followers themselves." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples) "Nothing supersede a good nap. That good recharge when you go to sleep." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples) "You gotta have people around that understand you're crazy and believe me you're crazy." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples) CHAPTERS 00:00 The Push to Help 02:06 Discovering Your Calling Later in Life 04:33 Letting Go of Old Beliefs 06:56 The Importance of Peace 11:09 Health is Wealth 15:16 Why Winning Ain't for Everybody 19:38 Block Out the Bullshit and Fear 21:36 Auditing Your Circle and Relationships 28:47 No is a Complete Sentence 32:07 The Power of a Few Key Yeses 34:22 Yes to You, No to Them 36:01 The Life-Changing Rooms 41:50 Rapid Fire: Unplugged Five QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How does saying "no" impact one's life and personal development? A: Saying "no" transforms your life, even if it brings initial bickering. Establishing "no" early helps younger people, changing everything for them. Q: What is Wallo267's perspective on "winning ain't for everybody"? A: Wallo267 believes winning isn't for everyone because it requires significant discipline and work that many are unwilling to put in. Successful people often seek the "boring" monotony of consistent effort. Q: How can listeners connect with Wallo267's new book and community initiatives? A: Listeners can get Wallo267's book, "Yes to You, No to Them," through Amazon.com and other major booksellers. They can join a social media movement starting July 16th to discuss weekly passages and share what the book means to them. Connect & Discover Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples): Instagram: @wallo267 LinkedIn: @wallce-peoples YouTube: @wallo267 TikTok: @wallo267 X: @Wallo267 Facebook: @whereswallo Book: Yes to You, No to Them: The Discipline of Saying No and the Freedom that Follows Brand: arplnsnhotls.com FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FIRE LINE: You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want. Jess Hilarious, the dynamic stand-up comedian and co-host of The Breakfast Club, shares her journey of parenting, purpose, and professional evolution. Dive into this episode to understand how resilience defines her legacy and the raw truths behind her success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - 3 key reasons for Jess Hilarious's because - 6 months to form a bond with her son - 2 Baltimore venues that define her career - Why "dummy" is a term of endearment - The importance of a supportive parenting village QUOTES THAT HIT "You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore "Legacy is one of the most important things to ever leave behind." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore "Parenting is one of the hardest things. It's just the most challenging thing you could ever do. But it's complex and it's complicated, but it's beautiful." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore CHAPTERS 00:00 Defining Jess Hilarious's Because 01:03 The Shared Parenting Purpose 03:49 Joy Over Happiness in Parenting 06:25 Jess Hilarious's Breakdown Moment 13:49 Fear and the Pregnancy Announcement 22:34 No One is Fully Healed 25:00 The Baltimore "Dummy" Hot Take 27:19 Martin Lawrence and The Room QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How did Jess Hilarious connect with her son emotionally? A: Jess Hilarious describes a moment six months after her son's birth, picking him up while crying, when she felt a deep emotional and mental connection, realizing he was her pride and joy. Q: What was the pivotal moment for Jess Hilarious's stand-up career? A: The pivotal moment was performing at the Wells Fargo Arena in Baltimore City in 2016, opening for Martin Lawrence in front of 13,000 people, which confirmed her path in stand-up comedy. Q: Why is "dummy" a term of endearment in Baltimore? A: "Dummy" became a term of endearment in Baltimore starting around 11 years old for Jess Hilarious's generation, used among peers, and signifies a cultural bond rather than an insult. Connect & Discover Jess Hilarious: Instagram: @jesshilarious_official Website: jesshilariousofficial.com Facebook: @JessHilariousofficial YouTube: @jesshilariousofficial X: @jess_hilarious TikTok: @jesshilarious_official Book: “Till Death Do We Parent FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leadership isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about inspiring commitment through genuine connection and relentless effort. Learn leadership from NFL Hall of Famer, Jared Allen, as he shares insights from his Pro Bowl career about thriving under pressure. This episode reveals how elite athletes translate gridiron success into business and personal development. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The 2011 season's 22-sack mindset - Building a Hall of Fame career foundation - Jared Allen's key leadership principles - Mental toughness strategies for entrepreneurs - Honoring military families through philanthropy QUOTES THAT HIT "You have to be a little bit crazy, but you also have to be calculated." - Jared Allen "Leadership is not just about telling people what to do, it's about showing them and earning their trust." - Jared Allen "There's no substitute for hard work and understanding your competition." - Jared Allen CHAPTERS 00:00 From Idaho State to NFL Legend 07:15 The 22-Sack Season Breakdown 14:30 Leadership Lessons from the Locker Room 21:55 Transitioning NFL Grit to Business 28:10 Jared Allen's Philanthropic Mission 35:00 Sustaining Excellence Beyond the Field 42:20 Building a Brand, Full Ryed Bourbon QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How did Jared Allen approach the record-breaking 2011 NFL season? A: Jared Allen combined relentless physical preparation with a deep understanding of his opponents' tendencies, constantly pushing for improvement even when nearing the single-season sack record. Q: What are Jared Allen's top leadership principles? A: Jared Allen emphasizes leading by example, fostering genuine relationships, and empowering teammates, believing that true leadership earns respect rather than demands it. Q: How does Jared Allen maintain mental toughness in his post-NFL career? A: Jared Allen applies the same discipline and strategic thinking he used in football to his business ventures and personal life, focusing on continuous learning and impactful contributions. Connect & Discover Jared: Instagram: @jaredallen69 Full Ryde Bourbon: fullrydebourbon.com Foundation: Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors X / Twitter: @jaredallen69    🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My wife and family are special, and I want the world to see how special they are. Entrepreneur David Grutman, co-owner of Groot Hospitality, shares how to build a lasting legacy and why nurturing relationships is key to success. He explains why focusing on intellectual property and an exit strategy, even if you never plan to sell, are critical for any business leader. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The critical importance of building an ecosystem around your business - How David Grutman uses AI in his hospitality ventures - Why your intellectual property and name are everything - The one thing David is most proud of to date - Why building an exit strategy for your business is crucial QUOTES THAT HIT "If I see a guest that I know that we take care of all the time doing their birthday party at another venue and not ours. I'm upset." - David Grutman "Don't being a gatekeeper. I hate these gatekeeper people." - David Grutman "You should always build a company that that's why IP is very important that you're not going to have a mess if you do exit trying to tie up all these people that are part of your IP." - David Grutman CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome David Grutman 01:32 David's Entrepreneurial Because and Next Steps 02:36 Groot Hospitality's Las Vegas Expansion 04:41 Taking Things Personally in Business 06:37 Building Your Business Ecosystem 09:53 David Grutman's Unique Value Proposition 15:47 The Importance of Being in the Right Rooms 19:53 Your Name and IP are Everything 22:22 The Exit Strategy Mindset 25:51 Mick's Rapid Fire Five with David QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What does David Grutman mean by "Take It Personal"? A: David Grutman applies "Take It Personal" to his business, meaning he fully immerses himself in the customer experience, observing competitor venues, and ensuring his team provides the best service to keep guests loyal. Q: How can entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem around their business? A: Entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem by focusing on relationships and curating experiences, both within their own venues and by recommending other valuable experiences, adding value for their guests beyond their direct offerings. Q: Why is having an exit strategy important, even if you don't plan to sell? A: Having an exit strategy is important because it forces you to run your business like a public company, ensuring it is structured for sustainability, making it easier to pass on to the next generation or sell if the opportunity arises.   Connect & Discover David: Instagram: @davidgrutman Groot Hospitality: groothospitality.com LinkedIn: David Grutman TikTok: @davidgrutman X: @DavidGrutman Book: Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation. This Memorial Day episode features reflections from figures like Chef Robert Irvine and Michelle Mace-Curren on military service and leadership. Delve into the deep driving forces behind dedication and self-sacrifice, exploring the critical role of preparation in overcoming impossible challenges. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - Chef Robert Irvine's mission to help those lost - The reason behind a 30-year Air Force veteran's call for help - Why micromanaging doesn't constitute leadership - 4 principles for building strong, loyal teams - The significance of 1% of the US population serving in the military QUOTES THAT HIT "Because there are people out there that need my help." - Memorial Day  "If you're worried about something right now that your worry will not affect, you're wasting your energy." - Memorial Day  "My because is simply because we're temporary." - Memorial Day  CHAPTERS 00:03 Mick Unplugged: Your Because 00:46 Chef Irvine's Because: Helping Others 02:12 Tough Love and Relatability 05:48 Overcoming Impossible: Start with Chapter One 07:29 Empathetic Leadership: Beyond Micromanagement 10:51 Military Service: A Daughter-in-Law's Journey 17:03 My Because: A Free Nation 22:43 Robert J. Ono's Because: Family 28:02 Bin Laden Raid: The 90-Minute Flight 32:31 Preparation: Master the Basics 33:23 CZ Lopez: Purpose and Misfortunes 43:17 Michelle Mace-Curren: Legacy and Leadership QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What does Chef Robert Irvine consider his "because"? A: Chef Robert Irvine says his "because" is that there are people out there who need his help, and he uses his platform for the betterment of others who are less fortunate. Q: How does Michelle Mace-Curren define her "because" as an entrepreneur after military service? A: Michelle Mace-Curren finds her "because" in creating her legacy now, seeing the tangible inspiration in front of her eyes when she gives keynote speeches, and knowing that her work impacts people's lives. Q: Why is preparation essential for leaders, according to Robert J. Ono? A: Robert J. Ono emphasizes that leaders must be prepared for contingencies and master the basics, because "you don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation." Connect & Discover Our Memorial Day Heroes: Chef Robert Irvine Website: ChefIrvine.com Chef Robert Irvine Instagram: @chefirvine Robert Irvine Foundation: RobertIrvineFoundation.org JoAnne Bass LinkedIn: @jo-bass JoAnne Bass Instagram: @thejoannebass Rob O'Neill Website: RobONeill.com Rob O'Neill Instagram: @mchooyah CZ Lopez LinkedIn: @ramoncolonlopez CZ Lopez Instagram: @therealczcolonlopez Michelle "Mace" Curran Website: MaceCurran.com Michelle "Mace" Curran Instagram: @mace.curran Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer?   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   Grab your copy now and level up your life: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A MillionFOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: @mickhunt Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 The story will keep you there. This Mick Unplugged episode features JEFRË, a Public Artist and Creative Director. He explores how pivotal life experiences and a singular vision shaped his career, leading him to create monumental public art around the globe. Discover JEFRË’s journey from urban designer to iconic artist. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - JEFRË's journey after a 35-year-old heart attack - How to become a brand-collaborating artist - The significance behind "Victor" in the Philippines - Why brands seek creative leaders like JEFRË - Developing art from community insights QUOTES THAT HIT "The story will keep you there." - JEFRË "I'm getting cities and nations together to create icons or moments that they can identify with their own culture." - JEFRË "The key is, is really engineering. That's where it is." - JEFRË CHAPTERS 00:00 Mick Unplugged Introduction 02:30 JEFRË on legacy and creation 06:51 JEFRË's Filipino-American origin story 09:42 Heart attack, career change to artist 13:47 JEFRË's process for designing art 20:06 JEFRË on personal connections 24:43 Branding and entrepreneurship with JEFRË 31:54 New projects and Shark Art QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What motivated JEFRË to become an artist after a career in urban design? A: JEFRË’s near-death experience from a heart attack at 35 prompted him to pursue creating impactful art immediately, shifting from long-term urban planning projects to direct artistic creation. Q: How does JEFRË ensure his monumental public artworks resonate with communities? A: JEFRË emphasizes listening to the community to understand their desires, then interpreting that input into his art. He believes the storyline derived from community engagement is more important than the scale of the artwork. Q: What is "Shark Art" and how does Damon John support artists like JEFRË? A: Shark Art is Damon John's initiative to support artists by providing management and business guidance. Damon helps artists like JEFRË navigate commercial aspects, manage their image, and secure licensing deals to expand their reach. Connect & Discover Jefrë: Instagram: @jefre_artist Website: jefre.org LinkedIn: JEFRË Studio TikTok: @jefre_artist  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Haley Sacks — better known as Mrs. Dow Jones — is the financial educator helping millions of people stop being weird about money and start building real wealth. Named Creator of the Year by Adweek, featured on Fortune's 40 Under 40, and dubbed by The Wall Street Journal as “the financial guru millennials listen to,” Haley has built a movement around making personal finance feel less like punishment and more like power. She's also the author of the brand-new book Future Rich Person: The New Rules for Building Wealth — a modernized, judgment-free playbook for anyone who's tired of the old advice that doesn't work anymore. This conversation is a masterclass in mindset, money, and why the old American Dream needs a complete rewrite.   Takeaways: •       The Old American Dream Is Dead — Use the New Rules: Your parents' money playbook was built for a world that no longer exists. Pensions, affordable homes, single-employer careers, and predictable student debt are gone. Haley breaks down why financial literacy in 2026 has to include AI, business structures like LLCs and S-corps, retirement vehicles for entrepreneurs, and the negotiation tactics nobody taught you. If you're still playing by 1985 rules, you're already losing. •       Money Magnifies Who You Already Are: There's no shame in wanting to be rich — money is just a tool that amplifies your character. If you're a giver, money lets you give bigger. If you want to take care of your family, build your community, or leave a job that doesn't serve you, wealth is the fuel that makes it possible. Drop the guilt, own the goal, and start building a financial life that matches the impact you want to have. •       Money Etiquette Is a Wealth Skill: Money is energy — and how you carry yourself with it determines how it flows back to you. Holding too tight, nickel-and-diming, or being tone-deaf about other people's situations doesn't just hurt your relationships, it actually slows your wealth-building. Move with grace, lead with humor, communicate openly with your people, and treat money etiquette like a non-negotiable part of your financial education.   Sound Bytes: “Money only magnifies who you are.”  “The system was always created by the people that it serves.”  “Money is energy. If you hold on to it too tight, it's not going to come to you as freely.”   Connect & Discover Haley: Instagram: @mrsdowjones Website: mrsdowjones.com LinkedIn: @mrsdowjones TikTok: @mrsdowjones Book: Future Rich Person  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rickey Smiley is a nationally beloved stand-up comedian, award-winning syndicated radio host, television personality, bestselling author, and one of the most authentic voices in entertainment today. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Rickey first captured America’s attention through his legendary prank phone calls and breakout performances on BET’s Comic View before building a media empire that includes The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, heard in over 70 cities nationwide. A two-time Marconi Award winner, Rickey has starred in multiple television series and specials, including his critically acclaimed Hulu comedy special Foolish. Beyond the laughs, Rickey is a devoted father, grandfather, mentor, and man of deep faith who uses his platform to uplift communities and inspire others. His bestselling memoir, Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith, chronicles his journey through unimaginable grief—including the loss of his eldest son Brandon—and stands as a powerful testament to resilience, service, and the healing power of purpose.   Takeaways: Give Your Kids What You Had, Not What You Didn’t: Rickey Smiley is unapologetic about raising his children and grandchildren with the same discipline, structure, and old-fashioned home training his grandparents gave him. No negotiations, no iPads as pacifiers, no coddling. In a world where everything right is being called wrong and everything wrong is being called right, Rickey stands firm—because the foundation that built him still works. If you liked who you became, give your kids the blueprint that made you, not the things you missed out on. Men, Put Your Ego Down and Get Help: Rickey Smiley performed comedy shows while crying backstage. He went back on the radio three days after burying his son because eight million listeners needed him. But behind closed doors, he sat on the steps of his kitchen and cried for days. This conversation is a direct message to men—you cannot be too big, too proud, or too successful to grieve, to seek therapy, and to talk about what you are carrying. Rickey’s honesty about his own mental health journey, and Mick’s personal testimony about how the book Sideshow pushed him into therapy, is the kind of real talk that saves lives. Help People, Protect Your Peace, and Pay It Forward: Rickey’s “because” is simple—he wakes up every day to serve, to bless, and to make somebody’s life better. But he also delivers a truth that every giver needs to hear: not everybody you help is going to appreciate it. Out of twenty people you pour into, maybe six or seven will say thank you. Be prepared for the disappointment, protect your peace fiercely, and keep pouring anyway—because that is the assignment. Our grandparents and teachers made personal sacrifices so we could have what we have, and the only proper response is to pay it forward.   Sound Bytes: “I told God a long time ago, hey, if you get me out of this rut right here, I promise you, I’ll serve you to the day I die and try to make somebody life better because of the things that you bless me with.”   “You literally on stage, doing joke, doing comedy, performing while you crying on the inside.”   “I think that what my grandparents and my parents did for me, it worked for me. It was critical to my development. And if it worked for me, it should work for my kids, because it still works.”   Connect & Discover Rickey: Instagram: @rickeysmileyofficial Facebook: @RickeySmileyOfficial YouTube: @RickeySmileyOfficial TikTok: @rickeysmileydigital Website: RickeySmiley.com Show: The Rickey Smiley Morning Show Book: Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥 Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeremy Guthrie is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who commanded the mound for over a decade with the Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles, Colorado Rockies, and Kansas City Royals. A Stanford graduate and former BYU standout, Jeremy was an American League Rookie of the Year candidate in 2007, represented Team USA in the 2009 World Baseball Classic, and started Games 3 and 7 of the 2014 World Series before earning a World Series ring in 2015. Off the field, Jeremy serves as an MLB Commissioner’s Ambassador, traveling to over 60 countries across six continents to grow the game globally. He is also the owner of Custom Cleats, the pioneering company that converts any sneaker into a high-performance cleat for athletes of all ages and sports. A man of deep faith, Jeremy’s two-year mission in Spain at age 19 laid the foundation for a life built on service, resilience, and redefining what success truly means.   Takeaways: Redefine Success Before It Defines You: Jeremy learned on the streets of Spain what most people never figure out in a lifetime — success isn’t about the scoreboard. It’s about the effort you pour into becoming the best version of yourself. John Wooden said it, Jeremy lived it, and it carried him through a decade in the big leagues when the stats didn’t always cooperate. If you’re measuring your worth by outcomes you can’t control, you’re playing a losing game. Control your effort, your focus, your resilience — and let the results take care of themselves. Forget Yourself and Find Your Purpose: At 19, Jeremy walked away from a professional baseball contract to spend two years serving others in Spain. No fastball. No spotlight. Just service. And what he found was the foundation of everything that followed — a deeper understanding of who he was and what he was capable of becoming. When you stop chasing what the world says you should want and start pouring into other people, that’s when the real breakthroughs happen. Lose yourself in service and watch your purpose reveal itself. Every Day You Have a Platform, Use It: Jeremy’s teammate Kevin Millar said it best — every day you’re in the big leagues, you have a chance to touch somebody’s life. Jeremy took that to heart and ran with it across 60 countries and six continents. But here’s the thing — you don’t need a Major League roster spot to have a platform. You have one right now. The question is, are you using it? Whether it’s a kind word, a signed autograph, or showing up for your community, your platform is your opportunity to leave people better than you found them.   Sound Bytes: “Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of the self-satisfaction that you have in making the best effort you can to become the best you’re capable of becoming.”  “Every day you’re in the big leagues, you have a chance to touch somebody’s life.”  “I learned the joy of forgetting yourself, of losing yourself, and yet finding yourself through that.”   Connect & Discover Jeremy Guthrie: Instagram: @therealjguts Custom Cleats Instagram: @customcleats Facebook: @TheRealJGuts X: @TheRealJGuts Website: customcleats.com  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aneesh Raman is LinkedIn’s Chief Economic Opportunity Officer, where he works with leaders across societies and sectors to shape the global response to the historic changes hitting work. A former CNN war correspondent and presidential speechwriter for Barack Obama, Aneesh has spent his career at the intersection of storytelling, economic policy, and human potential. He previously served as Senior Advisor on economic strategy to the State of California and led economic impact initiatives at Facebook. Alongside LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky, Aneesh co-authored the groundbreaking book “Open to Work: How to Get Ahead in the Age of AI,” a practical guide that draws on LinkedIn’s global data to help individuals and companies thrive in the rapidly evolving world of work. Takeaways: AI Won’t Replace You — Unless You Let It: The fear is real, but the fatalism is a choice. 70% of job skills will change by 2030, and for the first time ever, workers — not executives — get to decide how. Your boss doesn’t know what you do all day better than you do. Stop waiting for a playbook and start writing your own. The Three Buckets That Redefine Your Job: Aneesh breaks your weekly tasks into three buckets: what AI can do for you, what you’re building with AI, and what’s pure you — critical thinking, ethical judgment, human connection. As you shift work across those buckets, you stop being replaceable and start becoming indispensable. CEO or newest hire, start now. Nobody Beats You at Being You: The industrial age told us to be machine-like. Now a machine can out-machine us — and people are terrified. But Aneesh flips it: for the first time in human history, work is about to index on human capabilities. Your curiosity, creativity, and ability to build real partnerships — that’s your competitive edge. Bet on yourself, because the systems of work are finally shifting to reward what makes you uniquely you. Sound Bytes: “AI is not going to replace you unless you let it. It all starts with the agency we have as individuals and the strengths we start with.” “Nobody beats you at being you. Figuring out not just what makes you unique as a human, but what makes you unique as this human, is going to become your biggest competitive edge.” “Bet on yourself for every person who couldn’t do that, even though they desperately wanted to. Bet on yourself.” Connect & Discover Aneesh Raman: LinkedIn: Aneesh Raman Book — Open to Work: How to Get Ahead in the Age of AI Amazon: Open to Work Barnes & Noble: Open to Work 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 Leadership isn’t about a title — it’s about what you do when no one gave you a blueprint. In his book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One, Mick Hunt delivers the raw, real leadership playbook for the rest of us. Whether you’re building a team, growing a business, or just trying to lead yourself better — this book is for you. Straight talk. Real strategy. No fluff. 👉 Get your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Books A Million. FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: @mickhunt Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/mickunplugged Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jason Wild is a globally recognized innovation strategist and co-author of the groundbreaking book “Genius at Scale: How Great Leaders Drive Innovation,” written alongside Dr. Linda A. Hill of Harvard Business School and Emily Tedards. A former child actor turned business leader, Jason has shaped innovation strategy for some of the world’s most iconic brands—including Microsoft, Salesforce, and IBM—while advising CEOs across six continents. As the former Global Vice President of CEO Co-Innovation and Customer Engagement at Microsoft, Jason brings a rare blend of practitioner experience and thought leadership to the art and science of scaling breakthrough ideas. Takeaways: Stop Falling in Love with Ideas and Start Falling in Love with Problems: Most companies pour millions into brainstorming and ideation—and then wonder why nothing actually changes. Jason nails it: innovation isn’t about getting to the top of the mountain, it’s about making it back down alive. More initiatives die in execution than in conception. The Waldorf Astoria didn’t have a slow elevator problem—they had a boring wait problem. An intern with a mirror solved what a million-dollar algorithm couldn’t. Leaders, stop rewarding ideas and start rewarding impact. Pick the right problem and the solution will follow. Innovation Is a Social Process—You Can’t Mandate It, Delegate It, or Dictate It: Jason has spent 25 years in tech and he’ll tell you straight: it’s more about people than technology. The most innovative companies don’t obsess over the “what” of innovation—they master the “how.” They build communities where the best ideas rise organically, not because someone with the biggest title pounds the table. Creative abrasion, psychological safety, and diverse perspectives aren’t corporate buzzwords—they’re the operating system of every company that’s actually scaling something that matters. AI isn’t going to replace you. But a clueless leader who thinks AI can do your job? That’s the real threat. Wayfinding Is the New Leadership—Forget the Five-Year Plan: The old playbook of pathfinding—point A to point B, remove barriers, minimize turbulence—is dead. AI, quantum, blockchain—the ground is literally shifting under our feet every week. Jason and his co-authors call it wayfinding: figuring out the destination while you’re already on the way there. It’s uncomfortable. It demands humility. And it’s the only leadership approach that actually works when you’re leading in fog. Stop pouring new technology on old thinking and start building the framework to navigate what’s next. Sound Bytes: “The most innovative companies don’t focus on the what, they focus on how. And they focus on creating a community where organically innovation happens and the best ideas thrive.” “I don’t think people should be necessarily worried about the conversation of AI taking your job. But I think you should be more worried about some leader who is clueless, thinking that AI can do your job.” “Get in the right mindset and you surround yourself with the right people that are willing and able to innovate and seemingly impossible is not.” Connect & Discover Jason Wild: LinkedIn: Jason Wild Book — Genius at Scale: How Great Leaders Drive Innovation Amazon: Genius at Scale Website: GeniusatScale.com 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 Leadership isn’t about a title — it’s about what you do when no one gave you a blueprint. In his book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One, Mick Hunt delivers the raw, real leadership playbook for the rest of us. Whether you’re building a team, growing a business, or just trying to lead yourself better — this book is for you. Straight talk. Real strategy. No fluff. 👉 Get your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Books A Million. FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: @mickhunt Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alanna Taylor is a visionary leader and strategic architect who has spent three decades transforming bold ideas into fundable realities. With a staggering 60% plus grant win rate and over a million dollars raised annually for her clients, she is a nationally respected expert in program design, funding, and sustainable growth for mission-driven organizations. As the founder of Granted Success, Inc., Alanna specializes in grant writing, fractional executive director services, and her signature Grant-Ready Elevation Audit—a powerful diagnostic tool that evaluates a nonprofit’s win-ability across internal operations, messaging, digital footprint, and fundraising strategy. Her work is deeply rooted in empowering Black women executive directors and the Black-centered nonprofit organizations they lead.   Takeaways: Founders, Stop Making Yourself the Executive Director: Alanna reveals a critical pattern in the nonprofit space—Black women founders who position themselves as the executive director are inadvertently creating their own boss through the board. Her advice: position yourself as the board chair, build a strong and diverse board, and consider launching a consulting business alongside your mission. If you can create a nonprofit, you can create a business. Win Rate Is About Discipline, Not Just Writing: A 60% plus win rate does not come from fancy proposals—it comes from the discipline to say no. Alanna carefully evaluates every RFP, reviews the terms and conditions at the end that most people skip, and declines clients whose programs do not align with a funder’s priority areas. Funders now want quantitative outcomes, not wordy narratives, and Alanna delivers exactly that. Sustainability Means Multiple Revenue Streams: Grants alone will not sustain a nonprofit. Alanna pushes her clients to create fee-for-service offerings, technical assistance programs, merchandise, published books, and private donor bases. Unlike restricted grant funding, these revenue streams give organizations the unrestricted capital they need to truly grow and thrive on their own terms.   Sound Bytes: “My because is really meeting the needs of Black women who are in the nonprofit space.”  “You’re allowed to make money as a nonprofit. You are allowed to generate revenue. You are allowed to create a service and charge for it.”  “Look, I’m a great writer, but I am not Jesus. I cannot make this work.”   Connect & Discover Alanna: LinkedIn: @alannataylor Website: grantedsuccess.org Website: grantreadynow.com Email: ataylor@grantedsuccess.org  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Boomer Anderson is not your typical health guru—he’s a former investment banker turned health optimization pioneer who got the wake-up call of a lifetime when he was diagnosed with cardiovascular disease at just 30 years old. Instead of accepting the standard “take a pill and come back in ten years” approach, Boomer went all-in on understanding what true health actually means. Today he’s the CEO of Troscriptions, building science-backed solutions for stress, sleep, focus, and immune function, and the driving force behind Health Optimization Medicine and Practice (HOMe HOPe), a nonprofit that trains doctors worldwide to optimize for health rather than just manage disease. With a background that spans global finance, over 65 countries, and a relentless passion for challenging the process, Boomer brings the kind of real-world, research-backed insights that every entrepreneur and leader needs to hear. Takeaways: Your Stress Bucket Is Probably Already Broken: Boomer introduces the concept of the stress bucket—a container for all the stress in your life from work, relationships, environment, and yes, even exercise. When that bucket overflows, what you think is helping you (like intense workouts) can actually accelerate damage. Leaders need to audit their total stress load before adding more to the pile. Sleep Is the ROI Play You’re Ignoring: Getting just six hours of sleep has the same cognitive impact as drinking two to three beers. Pull an all-nighter and you’re operating like you’ve had ten to twelve. For entrepreneurs whose greatest asset is their brain, sacrificing sleep is literally leaving performance and money on the table. Health Starts at the Cellular Level: Boomer breaks down his framework that true health is more than the absence of disease—it’s about getting your body’s basic cell optimized and balanced. When you bring biomarkers like hormones and nutrients back to their evolutionary optimal levels (ages 21 to 30), the symptoms that plague most executives—brain fog, low energy, poor sleep—begin to fall away. Sound Bytes: “The through line for everything that I do is challenging the process.” “Getting six hours of sleep a night versus eight is the cognitive impact of drinking two to three beers. An all-nighter is the equivalent of drinking ten to twelve.” “Your day doesn’t start with when you wake up in your morning routine. It actually starts with your evening routine.” Connect & Discover Boomer: Instagram: @boomersnh Website: troscriptions.com X: @boomersnh LinkedIn: @boomeranderson Nonprofit: homehope.org YouTube: Troscriptions   🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bruce Bruce is an entertainment legend, a master of comedic timing whose sharp wit and improvisational brilliance have captivated audiences for decades across stand-up, television, and film. With a new Netflix special "I Ain't Playing" that has audiences roaring from start to finish, he redefines longevity and authenticity in the comedy game, building a career on delivering big laughs infused with relatable human insights. A true "goat" of comedy, Bruce Bruce consistently draws sold-out crowds with fresh material and an unwavering dedication to his craft, proving that genuine connection and humor are timeless. Takeaways: Authenticity in Performance: Bruce Bruce emphasizes the importance of being genuinely yourself, stating "He's the same person. It's not a difference. I'm not putting out a front." Treating Your Craft as a Business: He advises aspiring comedians and creators to view their passion as a business, highlighting the need for consistency, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Longevity Through Adaptability: Bruce Bruce’s sustained success is attributed to staying relevant, embracing new platforms like social media, and evolving his material to connect with contemporary audiences while still delivering classic humor. The Power of Mentorship and Communication: He emphasizes the value of honest feedback and open communication within relationships, whether with family, managers, or colleagues, to foster growth and avoid pitfalls. Joy in the Journey: Despite the demands of a long career, Bruce Bruce reiterated that his driving force is his genuine love for what he does, underscoring that passion sustains effort over time. Sound Bytes: "I wanna be like, look, I'm about to throw up. This dude is about to make me throw up. So that's what I wanted. And I think that's what I got." "If you like stripping strip, if you like stealing cars, still them, but you got to love what you do." "When people come to see you, have something for them to go home and talk about." "I don't care about nothing else but nobody should be 80 years old with a shag and a bang." "In every aspect of life, man, like my manager and I, we go back and forth on stuff. Sometimes I get hot here at Bruce." Connect & Discover Bruce Bruce: Website: bruce-bruce.com Facebook: @mybrucebruce Instagram: @mybrucebruce X: @mybrucebruce TikTok: @mybrucebruce Netflix: I Ain't Playin'  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nir Eyal is not just an author; he’s a behavioral architect, a master decoder of the invisible forces that drive human action and inaction. A former Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer who co-founded and sold tech companies before transitioning into writing and teaching, Nir’s brilliance lies in his rare ability to bridge psychology, technology, and business into frameworks that fundamentally change how leaders think, operate, and perform. With bestselling books like Hooked, Indistractable, and the upcoming Beyond Belief, Nir delivers the kind of substance that makes you stop, think, and actually do the work. Takeaways: Distraction Is an Action, Not an Accident: Nir reframes distraction as something we do, not something that happens to us. The opposite of distraction isn’t focus—it’s traction. Both end in “action,” and the difference comes down to intent. If it’s not what you planned to do, it’s pulling you off course. Time Boxing Beats To-Do Lists Every Time: To-do lists have no constraints and reward busyness over progress. Time boxing forces you to commit focused blocks to what matters most, teaches you how long things actually take, and creates the feedback loop that to-do lists can never provide. Belief Is the Missing Piece of Motivation: Knowing what to do and wanting the benefit isn’t enough. Nir reveals that motivation is a triangle—behavior, benefit, and belief—and without the belief that you can achieve the outcome, persistence collapses. His new book Beyond Belief unpacks the science-backed way to engineer the beliefs that unlock extraordinary results. Sound Bytes: “My purpose is to explain the world so that it can be made better.” “The superpower, the skill of the century is going to be the ability to follow through. Because it turns out that people want to do business with those who follow through.” “They went from 15 minutes to 60 hours of straight swimming. Why? What happened? What changed? The only variable left is that something was unlocked in their brains.” Connect & Discover Nir: Instagram: @neyal99 Website: nirandfar.com X: @nireyal LinkedIn: @nireyal Book: Beyond Belief 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunpluggedYouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Morgan Housel is not just an author; he's a financial philosopher, an alchemist of understanding who transforms complex financial concepts into relatable human narratives. With a staggering 11 million books sold worldwide and translations into over 60 languages, Morgan's brilliance lies in his unique ability to unpack the intricate dance between human behavior and financial success, offering unparalleled insights that resonate deeply with business leaders and entrepreneurs alike. Takeaways: The Power of Storytelling in Finance: Housel emphasizes that effective financial communication lies in compelling stories, making concepts memorable and relatable, far beyond the dry memorization of formulas. Redefining Financial Goals: He advocates for an inward-focused assessment of financial goals, distinguishing between genuine happiness and the social hierarchy-driven pursuit of more, encouraging listeners to define success on their own terms. Quiet Compounding for Lasting Success: Housel introduces the concept of "quiet compounding," highlighting that financial success often stems from a long-term, internal benchmark-driven approach rather than outward showmanship or fleeting achievements. Sound Bytes: "I always said this in my first book, The Psychology of Money, there are two topics that impact everybody, whether they like it or not, which are money and health. Like whether or not you're interested in those topics, those topics are interested in you and they will have a profound impact on your life." "If I could tell a cool story, that was A, it was timeless. And an article that was relevant yesterday might be relevant 20 years from now. And like, man, there's incredible value in that and B, it was much less competitive with other people." "That's the goal. That right there is the goal. It's gratitude and contentment. And the idea of like, I'm only gonna be happier if I can anchor my gaze and my expectations on what other people have and I don't. That's the formula for perpetual misery." Connect & Discover Morgan: Instagram: @morganhousel Website: morganhousel.com Podcast: @themorganhouselpodcast X: @morganhousel Book: The Art of Spending Money 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chef Kwame Onwuachi is a revolutionary culinary artist, an award-winning author, and a visionary restaurateur who is boldly redefining the landscape of modern American cuisine with a global perspective rooted in his Nigerian, Caribbean, and Creole heritage. From launching a catering company from the trunk of his car to earning a James Beard Award and opening nationally celebrated restaurants like Tatiana and the upcoming Maroon, Kwame is an unstoppable force constantly pushing boundaries and elevating Black foodways on the global stage. Takeaways: Leaving a Place Better Than You Found It: His "why" is deeply rooted in a commitment to societal impact, aiming to leave every space and community in a better condition than he found it. Teamwork Multiplies Success: Relying on a strong team allows for concentrated work and multiplies effective hours, demonstrating that leadership involves knowing when to be the quarterback, coach, or water boy. Vulnerability in Storytelling: Sharing his full journey, including obstacles and vulnerabilities, is crucial for connecting with others and highlighting that true defining moments come from how one responds to challenges. Spice vs. Spicy: Kwame clarifies that "spice" refers to flavor additives that radiate taste, not just heat, and can be balanced like instruments in a symphony to create complex flavor profiles. Sound Bytes: "The times that I am working, they're very concentrated and it's more like, you know, I have a team and I would say I'm sometimes I'm the quarterback and sometimes I'm the coach and sometimes I'm the water boy." "It's not what happens to them. It's how they get back up. It's how they respond to it. Cause that's what you're really in control of." "The heat doesn't have to be the driving force. It's like a symphony almost, you know, every instrument has a role in creating this beautiful sound." Connect & Discover Chef Kwame: Instagram: @chefkwameonwuachi Website: kwameonwuachi.com Facebook: @Chefkwame Restaurant: Maroon Book: Notes from a Young Black Chef  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Allyson Felix, a name synonymous with unparalleled achievement and groundbreaking advocacy, joins Mick Unplugged to share her remarkable journey. From shattering Olympic records and redefining what it means to be a champion athlete to becoming a fierce advocate for maternal rights and an innovative entrepreneur with her brand, Saysh, Allyson's story is one of unwavering resilience, profound purpose, and inspiring leadership. She delves into the core values that have guided her through athletic triumphs and personal challenges, demonstrating how faith, integrity, and a commitment to impact have shaped her legacy far beyond the track. Takeaways: The 'Because' of Purpose: Allyson Felix reveals that her profound drive stems from a faith-based belief in serving others and making a lasting impact, viewing her gifts as divine and meant for more than personal glory. Building Your Own Lane: Faced with a lack of support in the industry, Allyson Felix co-founded Saysh, demonstrating that true change often comes from building the solutions you wish to see, rather than waiting for existing structures to adapt. Beyond the Medal: For Allyson Felix, triumph extended beyond winning races; her most meaningful victory was competing in her own Saysh shoes, symbolizing a deeper purpose of representing women, especially women of color, and advocating for her daughter. Sound Bytes: "I truly believe that I was there for more than, you know, to run fast or, you know, really tried to live out my values as well and hope that that was seen and that was a real picture of someone striving for something. So yeah, to me, it's a part of who I am." "I did always have to come back to, know, well, who am I? And that is more important than any of these other things. And I truly believe also like what's for me will be for me. And I think that helped, you know, it really helped a lot of those times where you felt that pull and, you know, come back to say, you know, I need to be unapologetically myself." "But it was something that I knew that I wanted for my life. And I also knew that I had a career that I loved as well and that that was very important to me." Connect & Discover Allyson: Website: allysonfelix.com Facebook: @allysonfelixusa Instagram: @allysonfelix X: @allysonfelix 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ron "Boss" Everline is not just a trainer; he's a true titan of transformation, a visionary whose profound impact sweeps across elite performance and entrepreneurial mastery. Forging an empire born of unwavering discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence, he has become a beacon of inspiration, pushing countless individuals—from celebrity clients to everyday aspirants—to unlock their ultimate potential. His philosophy transcends physical training, encapsulating a holistic approach to life, mindset, and unwavering commitment, proving that true power comes from within. Takeaways: The Art of Intentionality: Every endeavor, whether in business, mentorship, or personal growth, thrives when approached with deep presence and pure intention, leading to authentic engagement and powerful outcomes. The Power of the "Why Not Me?": Shifting from "Why me?" to "Why not me?" transforms challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience, fostering a powerful mindset that embraces personal strength and purpose. Discipline as a Superpower: Discipline isn’t just about rigor; it’s a magnetic force that attracts success and rewards, embodying the core of lasting legacy and personal achievement. Sound Bytes: "I'm trying to prove myself right and the belief that I could do more than what people, what the surroundings offered me." "I like to talk to people from a what I've learned perspective of position versus what I know." "Gratitude is one of the greatest human emotions. And when you have gratefulness for the good and the bad, it's hard to be negative." Connect & Discover Ron: Instagram: @justtrain LinkedIn: @ron-boss-everline Facebook: @JustTrainWithBoss X: @justtrain 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/mickunplugged Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Earthquake, born Nathaniel Stroman, is a phenomenal force in comedy and entertainment, commanding stages worldwide for almost three decades with his sharp wit and profound storytelling. A multi-talented artist, his critically acclaimed Netflix special "Chappelle's Home Team - Earthquake: Legendary" solidified his status as a comedic icon, earning accolades from the New York Times. Beyond the spotlight, Earthquake exemplifies entrepreneurial vision, having successfully owned and operated multiple comedy clubs, and he consistently uses his platform to uplift and mentor emerging talent, proving that true legendary status is built on both performance and generous leadership. Takeaways: The Entrepreneurial Drive for Necessity: Earthquake's journey into club ownership was born from a fundamental need to create his own opportunities when existing structures proved restrictive, showcasing how adversity can spark innovation. The Continuous Pursuit of Excellence: He emphasizes that maintaining a high standard in comedy, much like in any craft, demands constant work and improvement, rejecting complacency that can lead to stagnation. Leadership Through Elevation: Earthquake’s approach to leadership involves not just personal success, but actively creating platforms and opportunities for others, deferring credit while still undeniably leading the team. Sound Bytes: "My mother told me what she always said. You can't get mad at another person for not allowing you to ride their bike. You either get your own bike or don't ride a bike at all." "But at the end of the day, everybody know who team it is. You know what I'm So the actor, you ain't gotta say it. You don't need to acclimate. And if you're about winning, you want to elevate your team." "I'm at the front line. I'm telling you, I minister this comedy gospel to 4,000 people all this weekend for a whole hour. Believe me, I'm telling you what experiences, where they at." Connect & Discover Earthquake: Website: therealearthquake.com Facebook: @nathaniel.stroman.75 Instagram: @therealearthquake X: @RealEarthquake 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Practice Makes Permanent: Transforming Leaders with Dr. Anthony Randall Dr. Anthony Randall isn't just a leader; he's a seismic force in personal and organizational transformation. An international award-winning author, combat veteran, West Point graduate, and martial arts master with black belts in three disciplines, Dr. Randall redefines excellence. As the President and Founder of Vanguard XXI, he masterfully coaches leaders across Fortune 100/500 companies, U.S. military special operations, Major League Baseball, and more, inspiring them to align passion, purpose, and precision. He's a visionary dedicated to restoring civility, fostering anti-fragility, and championing a "more excellent way" of leading and living. Takeaways: Practice Makes Permanent, Not Perfect: Focus on practicing excellence to make quality habits and skills permanent, ensuring continuous growth and improvement across all aspects of life. Embrace Anti-Fragility Over Resilience: Instead of simply bouncing back from adversity, strive to become anti-fragile, meaning you improve and grow stronger through challenges, rather than just returning to your original state. The Golden Triangle of Liberty: Restoring civility and trusted leadership in the public square requires a balance of freedom, virtue, and faith, moving beyond self-interest to foster objective values and civil discourse. Sound Bytes: "Practice makes permanent not perfect. I think that kind of destroys one of those isms that people typically think is practice makes perfect. Practice makes permanent. Practice does not make perfect. So practice excellence." "Being anti-fragile is about not just responding, resisting and responding to the things in life, but getting better from each and every one of those sets and reps." "When you can coach organizations in depth how to think, you begin to create morally and ethically autonomous leaders that get stuff done." Connect & Discover Dr. Anthony: Website: vanguardxxi.com Website: anthonyrandall.org Book: Practicing Excellence Book: Practice Makes Permanent LinkedIn: @anthonyvanguardxxi 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jade Warshaw is not just a financial expert; she's a force of nature revolutionizing how we understand and interact with our money. As the brilliant mind behind the game-changing book "What Nobody Tells You About Money," Jade demystifies the path to financial freedom with unmatched insight, realness, and a powerful commitment to transforming lives. Her journey from personal financial struggle to empowering countless others speaks to a profound belief that our stories are never just for ourselves, but meant to inspire a revolution in wealth management. Takeaways: Your Story is Never Just for You: What you experience, especially in overcoming challenges, is meant to be shared as a guide and inspiration for others. Money is Three-Dimensional: Beyond knowledge and behavior, our emotions, past experiences, and personal narratives are crucial for true financial success. You Are in Control: Despite feeling overwhelmed by financial struggles, recognizing your agency and focusing on essential needs empowers you to take decisive action. Sound Bytes: "I have learned that your story is never just for you. Like what you go through is so you think it's for you at the time, but I know more than ever everything I've gone through there's somebody out there that needs it and it's my job to get it to them." "Money is actually three dimensional. And the third dimensional is the human component, which is our emotions and who we are and what our experience is. That is the main filter in which we filter all that information." "The most important thing to remember is that you have shelter first... Then the next thing is you gotta make sure that you have transportation... Then the next thing is yeah, utilities... And then finally food, you gotta have food." Connect & Discover Jade: Instagram: @jadewarshaw TikTok: @jadewarshaw Facebook: @jadewarshawpersonality Book: What No One Tells You About Money 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeff Tiegs is a remarkable force, a true luminary whose career spans 25 years of relentless service in counterterrorism and elite special operations, transitioning his unparalleled skills and unwavering dedication to combating sex trafficking with Skull Games. He's reshaping industries, unlocking groundbreaking strategies, and igniting the spirit of progress in the technological landscape, all while inspiring individuals to step into their heroic potential through compelling storytelling and profound insights. Takeaways: Unseen Vulnerabilities: Human trafficking exploits innate human needs for love and self-esteem, making adolescents particularly susceptible to manipulation by predators who expertly identify these vulnerabilities. Technology in the Fight Against Trafficking: Skull Games leverages advanced open-source intelligence and data analysis to identify human trafficking indicators in escort ads, aiding law enforcement in disrupting these heinous operations. The Hero Within: Everyone possesses the potential to be a hero, not just through grand gestures, but through daily acts of commitment, integrity, and selfless service, recognizing the heroes often found in everyday life. Sound Bytes: "I sum up my because is simply I am a protector. I came to terms with that years ago, and really where I really started to come terms with it was questioning why I was sacrificing so much of my time with my family, even my health with these wars that became Obvious to us that we weren't going to win those wars."  "I don't think people fully appreciate how vast and deep this level of evil is in the United States." "I believe the first sin was Adam's apathy. I believe the first sin was Adam not protecting his wife." Connect & Discover Jeff: LinkedIn: @jeff-tiegs LinkedIn: @skull-games Instagram: @jefftiegs Book: Where Have All the Heroes Gone? 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Annika Sorenstam is not just a golf legend but a visionary whose dedication shaped the game and whose philanthropic spirit, through the ANNIKA Foundation, is redefining excellence for the next generation of leaders in sports and beyond, offering a treasure trove of wisdom cultivated through years of unparalleled achievement. Takeaways: The Power of Preparation and Confidence: Annika emphasizes that thorough preparation is the antidote to shyness and nervousness, acting as a profound source of confidence that allows her to perform at her best and represent herself and her partners with excellence. Managing Pressure Through Process: Pressure is a given, but Annika effectively manages it by adhering to routines and focusing on the process rather than solely on the outcome, recognizing that a healthy level of pressure can sharpen focus and discipline. The Art of Balancing Technology: In an increasingly distracted world, Annika advocates for finding a healthy balance with technology, urging selective use to enhance performance while maintaining dedicated, distraction-free time for personal growth and genuine human connection. Sound Bytes: "Because I think, I mean, it makes me feel good. I want to make a difference. I want to inspire the next generation. because I feel very lucky, to be honest." "I think for me, was just, it's almost like living. And doing something before you do it made me feel very comfortable. And I think I can relate that to many things in my life where I feel in my mind I've done it." "You need a little bit of that in your mix, in the recipe. You need a little bit of that, but not too much." Connect & Discover Annika: Website: annikafoundation.org Facebook: @Annika Instagram: @annikas59 X: @annika59 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Iyanla Vanzant is a force of nature, a spiritual luminary whose profound wisdom and unwavering truth have ignited a revolution of healing and self-discovery in countless lives. With the depth of an ancient sage and the directness of a loving guide, she empowers individuals to shed the burdens of their past, reclaim their authentic power, and embark on a transformative journey towards emotional wellness and spiritual liberation. Her insights don't just touch the soul; they ignite it. Takeaways: The True Meaning of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is not primarily about absolving others, but a deeply personal journey of forgiving oneself for the ways one has held onto resentments or allowed past experiences to define present excuses. Moving On Requires Unpacking the "Why": To truly move on from past hurts, one must first unpack, explore, and investigate the genuine root of their emotions, rather than attributing them simply to an external event. Spiritual Hygiene for Inner Peace: Cultivating spiritual hygiene involves cleansing the mind and opening the heart by actively practicing stillness and breathwork, essential practices often neglected in a world driven by constant doing. Sound Bytes: "Serving God, that's it, because it serves God. It serves God for me to heal. It serves God for me to support. It serves God for me to fall down and get up. It just serves God. That's my because." "The real forgiveness work is about yourself, but because the universe is so merciful and graceful, it gives us the opportunity to forgive others hoping that along the way we will bump into the truth and forgive ourselves." "You want love and happiness? Don't do the things that don't make you feel loving or happy." Connect & Discover Iyanla: Website: iyanla.com/ Facebook: @DrIyanlaVanzant Instagram: @iyanlavanzant YouTube: @IyanlaVanzant TikTok: @iyanlavanzant Book: Spiritual Hygiene 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we welcome a true titan of the baseball world, Jason Heyward, a World Series champion and multiple Gold Glove winner whose brilliance extends far beyond the diamond. Jason's impactful career is a masterclass in perseverance, strategic excellence, and leadership, inspiring millions through his dedication to teamwork, personal growth, and community engagement. He is a phenomenal athlete who has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead by example, making him an invaluable voice for leaders and entrepreneurs alike. Takeaways: Beyond the Field: True impact comes from what you do outside your primary domain, whether that's fatherhood, community work, or personal lessons. Connecting with Community: Genuine engagement and presence in the community foster deeper understanding and allow for meaningful contributions. Leadership Through Life: Lessons learned through personal experiences, such as fatherhood and navigating life’s challenges, directly translate into powerful leadership principles. Sound Bytes: "This conversation is about the father he is, the presence that he has, what he's doing in the community, lessons that he's learned, and just hearing his story his way is awesome." "You're gonna hear who his goat of baseball is, and it might surprise you, maybe it won't." "This is a lesson for leaders to learn about presence, to learn about dedication. to learn about how to really connect with people and connect to your community." Connect & Discover Jason: Instagram: @jasonheyward Facebook: @JasonHeyward22 Instagram: @jasonheywardbaseballacademy 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

CZ Lopez is a true force of nature, a visionary leader whose career spans groundbreaking work alongside culinary titan Robert Irvine and a dedicated mentorship transforming the lives of veterans. From humble beginnings that led him to find his purpose as an Air Force para-rescueman, CZ's journey of resilience, humility, and unwavering commitment has shaped him into an extraordinary voice in leadership, inspiring countless individuals to embrace accountability, proactively take charge, and make every second count. Takeaways: The Fluidity of "Because": Your core motivation, the "because" that drives you, is not static but evolves with the seasons of your life, demanding constant reflection and alignment. Adversity as Opportunity: Misfortunes and failures are not roadblocks but pivotal lessons and opportunities for growth, strengthening character and fueling future drive. Humility as a Leader's Anchor: True leadership is grounded in humility, recognizing that believing your own hype leads to ego and diminishes credibility, while candid feedback fosters genuine progress. Sound Bytes: "My because is simply because we're temporary. Our existence is numbered. We don't know how long we have on this earth to make a difference. So we have to make every second count." "I looked at failures as something that was going to make me stronger, that was going to give me further drive, more motivation, a chip on my shoulder to just go ahead and keep on pressing forward." "If it's going to be a book about you, buddy, I think you need your face in the front... that beret needs to be in there because that's really who made you who you were, the career field of para rescue." Connect & Discover CZ: Instagram: @therealczcolonlopez Threads: @therealczcolonlopez LinkedIn: @ramoncolonlopez Book: Carnivore Leadership: Taking Charge Instead of Taking Shit 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kym Whitley is an unmissable force, a comedic genius who lights up every screen and stage she graces, balancing a thriving career, the intricate journey of personal transformation, and the deeply personal mission of motherhood. She's not just breaking stigmas; she's building bridges of understanding, inspiring millions with her candor, courage, and hilarious authenticity, making her a truly unforgettable voice for change and joy. Takeaways: Finding Your "Because": Your deepest purpose is often inherent, a natural gift meant to be shared, whether it's bringing laughter or fostering connection. Motherhood as a Catalyst for Growth: Becoming a parent intensifies life’s demands, but it also provides a profound opportunity for personal growth and a re-evaluation of priorities. Breaking the Stigma Around Obesity: Approaching obesity as a chronic disease and utilizing available tools, like Zepbound alongside diet and exercise, can be a crucial step towards health without shame. Sound Bytes: "My because is because that is how I was made." "Motherhood means you gotta grow up. That was like, this is not a game." "Do you know, Mick, I didn't realize that obesity is a disease. Did you know that?" Connect & Discover Kym: Instagram: @kymwhitley Facebook: @kymwhitley X: @kymwhitley Website: iamkymwhitley.com Zepbound: zepbound.lilly.com Lilly: lillydirect 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bill Gurley is a titan of Silicon Valley, a visionary investor who has shaped the landscape of modern business with game-changing insights and investments in companies like Uber and Zillow. As a general partner at Benchmark, Gurley’s track record is undeniable, but it's his passion for unlocking human potential, articulated in his new book "Runnin' Down a Dream: How to Thrive in a Career You Actually Love," that truly sets him apart. Through his popular blog "Above the Crowd" and social media, he has consistently shared his wisdom, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers they genuinely love with confidence and strategic methodology. Takeaways: Unlocking Human Potential: The book "Runnin' Down a Dream" aims to equip individuals with the motivation and methodology to pursue their passions confidently, even in non-traditional fields. Mentorship and Sharing Knowledge: Learning from legends like Bobby Knight highlights the exponential positive impact of seeking mentors and generously sharing your own knowledge with others, rather than viewing success as a zero-sum game. Harnessing AI for Career Growth: Rather than fearing AI, individuals should embrace it as a "jet pack, jet fuel superpower" for accelerated learning and career advancement, especially for those with "agency" and a passion for continuous self-learning. Sound Bytes: "I could have written a book about investing or venture capital or any of those things, but it wouldn't touch as many people as I hope this one can touch." "I think the most positive reflection people should have on Bobby Knight, and I know there's a controversy about some of his tactics along the way, is his coaching tree." "If your career is crafted by the educational industrial complex and you're one of a hundred people doing the exact same thing and you come out of of academia like a widget and you're not someone who's passionate or not someone who self learns, you are a sitting duck for what AI may do." Connect & Discover Bill: LinkedIn: @billgurley X: @bgurley Facebook: @bgurley Book: Runnin’ Down a Dream: How to Thrive in a Career You Actually Love 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From electrifying NFL fields to rewriting his own narrative with resilience, wisdom, and unapologetic truth, Adam "Pacman" Jones is more than an athlete—he's a force of nature. A dynamic leader who inspires redemption, responsibility, and real talk, Pacman brings his signature "go get it" mentality to every aspect of his life, proving that with unwavering dedication and a commitment to authenticity, you can redefine your legacy and empower those around you. Get ready to be inspired by a man who lives by the mantra: "work hard, play hard" and whose impact extends far beyond the gridiron. Takeaways: The Power of Unrelenting Work Ethic: Pacman highlights that while talent is important, an unmatched work ethic is what truly separates good from great, emphasizing that relentless effort can overcome natural ability. Strategic Preparation as a Skillset: Coming from a background where he always played with older, more experienced individuals, Pacman developed an acute awareness of strategic preparation, translating his multifaceted athletic background into a unique mental edge that propelled him to success. The Evolution of a Leader: From needing a supportive circle in his early career, Pacman transformed into a pillar of support for others, understanding the profound impact of intentional mentorship and building genuine relationships that transcend the paycheck. Mentorship Through Vulnerability: Recognizing the value of his own experiences, Pacman passionately advocates for showing vulnerability and honesty, especially with children, using his past struggles and triumphs to teach invaluable life lessons and foster growth. Intentional Community Impact: Beyond the public eye, Pacman is deeply committed to supporting his community and youth, choosing to act with intention and genuine care rather than seeking recognition, focusing on tangible actions that empower individuals to overcome significant challenges. Sound Bytes: "What separates good and great is work ethic. Period point one." "That's my calling, man. That's my calling. Like, I was one of those kids who lost his dad early, stayed with my grandma." "I truly believe in you are what you hang around." Connect & Discover “Pacman”: Instagram: @realpacman24 TikTok: @adamjonespacman 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Todd Rose is a visionary leader and brilliant mind reshaping our understanding of human potential and the future of leadership. From overcoming academic struggles to achieving a GED and multiple Harvard degrees, his journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of meaningful impact. With profound insights into individuality, success, and the power of authenticity, Todd challenges conventional thinking, inspiring us to embrace our unique "jaggedness" and build a world where true potential flourishes. Takeaways: The 'Because' - Deeper Than Your Why: Discovering your core, intrinsic motivators, like the profound life-altering realization Todd had when holding his son for the first time, provides unwavering accountability and purpose throughout life's journey. The Power of Fit and the "Jaggedness Principle": Understanding that human beings are multi-dimensional and excel in specific contexts, rather than being universally good or bad, is crucial for finding environments where individual talents and passions can truly thrive. Collective Illusions and Authentic Success: Many societal beliefs about success are misalignments between what people genuinely desire (meaning, contribution, relationships) and what they falsely believe others value (fame, fortune), leading to widespread dissatisfaction and resentment. Sound Bytes: "It was one thing to mess up your own life. It's very different when you realize the responsibility you had to this, this person that didn't ask to be born." "Collective illusions are simply groupthink, but you're wrong about the group." "No amount of achievement on things that other people cared about increases life satisfaction at all." Connect & Discover Todd: Instagram: @ltoddrose LinkedIn: @todd-rose X: @ltoddrose Website: toddrose.com Book: Collective Illusions Book: Dark Horse Book: The End of Average 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Bach is a titan of financial wisdom, a true innovator who has revolutionized the way millions approach their wealth and legacy. With multiple New York Times bestsellers and a transformative speaking presence, he is an undeniable force in personal finance and business leadership whose insights are not just impactful, but truly paradigm-shifting. Join us as he unveils his "because," sharing how he empowers individuals to achieve financial freedom and live their richest lives, both now and in the future. Takeaways: The 'Because' of Financial Freedom: David reveals his purpose as helping people achieve financial freedom, seeing it as a crucial step for individuals to connect with their higher calling and live authentically. The Power of Paying Yourself First: Learn why consistently setting aside the first hour of your daily income for savings and investments can fundamentally change your financial trajectory, ensuring long-term security and freedom. Living Rich Now is About Perspective: Understanding that "living rich now" transcends monetary figures, focusing instead on appreciating life's blessings and moments, like the simple act of waking up each day. Sound Bytes: "I really believe we're put here with a gift from a higher power... and I think the hardest thing in life is to figure out for some people what that is, what that calling is." "My purpose has been, and I've been doing it for 33 years, is to free people financially... not for the money's sake, not for the stuff's sake." "When you earn money, whether you're self-employed or you have a job, you have to keep the first hour a day of your income, automatically saving that money for the rest of your life." Connect & Discover David: Website: davidbach.com Book: The Automatic Millionaire LinkedIn: @david-bach Instagram: @davidlbach Facebook: @DavidBach X: @AuthorDavidBach YouTube: @DavidBachTV 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ty Schmidt is a force of nature, a dynamic storyteller, and a branding guru who transforms individual narratives into powerful connections. With a background rooted in journalism and a deeply personal journey of overcoming adversity, Ty passionately empowers leaders and entrepreneurs to authentically build their brand by tapping into the heart of their story. Her mission extends beyond business, aiming to inspire growth, purpose, and impact, making her a beacon for anyone striving to live and lead with intention. Takeaways: Storytelling as Branding: Effective branding is fundamentally about authentic storytelling, not just advertising, creating a deeper connection with your audience. The Power of "Because": Understanding your personal "because"—your deepest motivations and experiences—is crucial for defining your purpose and driving your impact. Serve Before You Sell: Prioritizing service and providing genuine value to your audience builds trust and natural sales flow from that authentic connection. Leadership Branding: For C-suite and business leaders, personal branding is essential because people follow people, not just companies, demanding authenticity and vulnerability. Just Start: The biggest barrier to developing a personal brand is often the fear of not knowing where to start; simply begin, be yourself, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Sound Bytes: "Storytelling is at the soul of branding to me and that's really how, you know, it goes way back with the journalism, you know, the journalism interest." "You're making it too much about you. A lot of people make it too much about them and their pain and their story." "The most important thing they can do is just start and not be afraid to mess it up and not be afraid to fail and not be afraid to really just be themselves because people will sniff out the not themselves real quick these days." Connect & Discover Ty: Instagram: @littlebigmediamke LinkedIn: @ty-schmidt Facebook: @ty.schmidt TikTok: @tyschmidtty Book: Triumphs of Transformation Podcast: Quick Before You Forget 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Carla Hall, a true culinary phenomenon, transcends the kitchen to inspire with her profound emotional intelligence and unwavering authenticity. From her legendary status on Top Chef and Food Network to her empathetic role as "the judge of judges," Carla embodies a unique blend of warmth and wisdom. Her journey underscores the power of embracing one's true self, transforming every dish and interaction into an experience of joy, encouragement, and undeniable connection. Takeaways: The Power of Authenticity and Evolution: Carla Hall demonstrates that remaining true to oneself while constantly evolving is key to enduring success and personal fulfillment in a rapidly changing world. Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Her approach to guiding and nurturing others, whether in the culinary world or in life, highlights the critical role of empathy and understanding in effective leadership. The Hidden Realities of Culinary Arts: Beyond the glamour of television, Carla sheds light on the intense pressure and mental fortitude required in the culinary industry, advocating for greater awareness and support for mental health. Sound Bytes: "You are his inspiration in the kitchen. And I owe you so much because it rounds him out." "People aren't going to allow themselves to be vulnerable if they feel like they're judged." "As long as I lead with joy and being my true authentic self, like you can't go wrong." Connect & Discover Carla: Website: carlahall.com Instagram: @carlaphall Facebook: @chefcarlahall TikTok: @carlaphall X: @carlahall YouTube: @carlahall2201 Show: Please Underestimate Me 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million      FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jay Paterno is a dynamic force, a leadership coach, change-maker, and author who is boldly redefining what legacy truly means. From the electrifying sidelines of Penn State to the challenging front lines of public service, he inspires leaders to act with unwavering courage, solid character, and genuine conviction. A true visionary, his insights cut through the noise, challenging conventional wisdom and sparking vital conversations nationwide about integrity, impact, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Takeaways: The Lawlessness of College Football: College football currently operates without true governance, driven by reactions to legal rulings and a lack of unified leadership, creating significant instability and pressure. The True Pressure of Leadership: Real pressure in leadership comes from the constant demands, ethical dilemmas, and the 24/7 nature of the role, often leading to mental health challenges for both leaders and those they guide. The Enduring Power of Values: Values are crucial anchors that provide stability during adversity and prevent leaders from losing their way during success, serving as an internal compass for integrity and purpose. Sound Bytes:  "There's two types of people in the world. There's problem people and solution people." "Being a leader is not simply lying and never admitting you're wrong. Some of the greatest leaders are people who listen, who admit faults, and then correct them. And those things have all been lost." "No matter how high or low my estimation in the eyes of the world, my conscience is clear. And that's more important than anything."  Connect & Discover Jay: Website: jayvpaterno.com Facebook: @jaypaternoforpa X: @JayPaterno LinkedIn: @jaypaterno Instagram: @jayvpaterno YouTube: @nittanygameweek4442 Book: Blitzed! The All-Out Pressure of College Football’s New Era 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr Eric Topol is a relentless pioneer, a visionary cardiologist, and a groundbreaking scientist who is not merely observing the future of health but actively building it. With a keen focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology and evidence-based science, he challenges the status quo in medicine, pushing for a radical shift from treatment to prevention. His work is reshaping our understanding of longevity, healthspan, and the profound impact of AI, offering a blueprint for a healthier, more informed tomorrow. Takeaways: The "Because" of Prevention: Dr. Topol’s deep-seated motivation stems from witnessing preventable suffering and death within his own family, fueling his drive to transform medicine from a reactive treatment model to a proactive prevention paradigm. Demystifying Superagers: Contrary to common belief, the extraordinary health and longevity of "superagers" are primarily attributed to lifestyle choices and robust immune systems, not solely genetics, offering an empowering message that healthy aging is largely within our control. AI’s Triple Threat in Healthcare: Artificial intelligence is poised to revolutionize healthcare by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, returning valuable time to clinicians by streamlining administrative tasks, and most profoundly, by enabling personalized disease prevention strategies. Sound Bytes: "I just think we can do so much better to prevent the major diseases, not just there that I've been in for my career, cardiovascular, but also neurodegenerative, preventing Alzheimer's and also preventing cancer." "We now are empowered to go that route. And it's a lot like what I experienced in the early 80s, which is when a field within medicine went through a radical change. We need to do that more frequently than every decade or two." "I figured, well, I'm condemned to the same fate. So I've always been interested in genetics and health span, lifespan. And we did a study we called the Welderly. And the Welderly, basically another name for them, are superagers." Connect & Discover Dr Eric: Instagram: @erictopol1 X: @EricTopol Substack: @Ground Truths Book: Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity LinkedIn: @eric-topol YouTube: @EricTopolSRTI 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Larry Hagner is the voice behind The Dad Edge, a top-ranked podcast transforming the lives of millions of men into better husbands, fathers, and leaders. A man on a mission to create legendary legacies, Larry fearlessly turns vulnerability into strength, redefining what it means to lead at home and beyond with unwavering purpose and relentless empowerment. Takeaways: The "Because" - Your True North: Larry emphasizes that while "why" focuses on immediate motives, understanding your "but why" (your "because") reveals the deeper purpose driving your actions, like avoiding the "drift" or fulfilling a life of intentional impact. Intentional Living Through the Brave Man Code: To escape feeling overwhelmed, Larry champions living by the Brave Man Code (Bond, Raise, Amplify, Vitality, Enjoy), setting three SMART goals in each category weekly to ensure deliberate progress and a balanced, joyful life. The Power of Community and Shared Vulnerability: Building a community like The Dad Edge Alliance allows men to overcome the isolating tendency to "white-knuckle" life's challenges, fostering an environment where shared experiences, mutual support, and vulnerability lead to profound personal and familial growth. Sound Bytes: "The definition of hell is meeting the man that you could have been when you're laying on your deathbed." "This will never happen when I have kids. I'm going to be a good dad." "I truly believe we get one shot at this life, like just one. And why not make it amazing?" Connect & Discover Larry: Website: thedadedge.com Website: goodmenproject.com Instagram: @thedadedge Facebook: @larry.hagner.3 YouTube: @TheDadEdge Book: The Pursuit of Legendary Fatherhood: Break Old Patterns and Create an Epic Legacy as a Father and Husband 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jason Feifer is the visionary Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, a master storyteller, and a future-proof mindset architect who empowers business leaders to own their identity and thrive amidst constant change. With a dynamic presence across media and a unique ability to simplify complex ideas, Jason transforms challenges into opportunities, guiding entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses and lives they love. Takeaways: The Value of Ownership in Your Identity: A title is rented, but your unique voice, perspective, and the value you bring are what you truly own, providing stability and growth regardless of your current role. Redefining Your "Because": Your core purpose isn't just about what you do, but the "state of being" you wish to create and maintain, driving every decision and commitment you make. The Power of a 5% Character: Instead of attempting to share everything, develop a focused, relatable version of yourself that serves as a consistent and understandable asset for your personal brand and audience. Sound Bytes: "The thing that I can own is my voice and my perspective and the value that I bring to others." "It's the difference for me between I am a magazine editor, which is so deeply changeable... But how's this? I tell stories in my own voice." "The magic formula for perfect media production... is it has to be the right balance of predictability and surprise." Connect & Discover Jason: LinkedIn: @jason-feifer Website: jasonfeifer.com Facebook: @jasonfeifer Instagram: @heyfeifer X: @heyfeifer Podcast: Help Wanted Book: Build for Tomorrow Newsletter: One Thing Better FOLLOW MICK ON: YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast Instagram: @mickunplugged LinkedIn: @mickhunt Website: mickhuntofficial.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another episode of Mick Unplugged! Today's guest is a visionary strategist, a powerhouse at the intersection of technology and global business, known for transforming brands and carving out new paths to success in dynamic markets. She's a brilliant communicator, an architect of influence, and a true leader in shaping narratives that resonate worldwide. Please join me in welcoming the insightful, the pioneering, the absolutely transformative... Maha Abouelenein! Takeaways: The "Because" Deeper Than Your Why: Maha's profound sense of purpose stems from her upbringing, transforming personal caregiving experiences into a powerful drive to create value for others, finding deep satisfaction in serving and uplifting those around her. Communication as the Ultimate Leadership Skill: Mastering effective communication is not just a soft skill but essential for building trust, connecting with teams and clients, and articulating one’s identity in an age dominated by information and AI. Leveraging AI for Personal Brand and Storytelling: AI serves as a powerful, fast tool for structuring and scaling personal stories, allowing individuals to quickly develop their unique brand without overthinking, making personal branding accessible and efficient. Sound Bytes: "I wanna do things because I want to create value for people because ultimately if I serve you or if I serve my team or if I serve my clients, that's great. But what it really reflects on is me and it makes me feel good." "Being good at communications is not just a nice to have, it's a top leadership skill." "If you are not visible, you are invisible." Connect & Discover Maha: LinkedIn: ⁠@maha-abouelenein Instagram: ⁠@mahagaber⁠ X: ⁠@mahagaber⁠ TikTok: ⁠@mahagaber⁠ Book: ⁠7 Rules of Self-Reliance: How to Stay Low, Keep Moving, Invest in Yourself, and Own Your Future⁠ Course: https://maha-abouelenein.mykajabi.com/PersonalBrandBlueprint 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: YouTube: ⁠@MickUnpluggedPodcast⁠ Instagram: ⁠@mickunplugged⁠ LinkedIn:⁠ @mickhunt/⁠ Website: ⁠mickhuntofficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Eddie Hartman is a tech visionary, scale architect, and entrepreneur renowned for co-founding LegalZoom, a company that revolutionized legal access for millions by bringing legal empowerment to the masses. With a track record of launching new ventures and mentoring the next generation of founders, Eddie is known for his relentless innovation and practical wisdom. As an author, he co-wrote "Monetizing Innovation" and "Scaling Innovation," essential reads for anyone serious about building sustainable businesses. His life's mission is to help others not just survive the challenges of entrepreneurship but truly thrive. Takeaways: Embrace Both Success and Failure: Eddie believes that entrepreneurs should discuss their failures as openly as their successes, highlighting the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks. Value and Pricing Are Everything: A common blind spot for founders is not testing whether customers will actually pay for their product, and undervaluing their services is a typical misstep. Charging based on real value—and being willing to ask for more—is crucial for growth. Recurring Revenue and Relationships Win: Transitioning from one-time transactions to ongoing relationships, such as subscriptions, can transform any business—even the most traditional industries—by focusing on long-term customer value and retention. Sound Bytes: "You do not have to face the odds which are daunting that most people face as entrepreneurs today. There are a few things you can do to radically improve your chances of success." "If you only perfect the recipe and get it out there, but people aren’t willing to pay what you need, then you’re not in possession of a business idea—you’ve got a great hobby." "Every person who leaves you as a customer at one point said yes. Your job is to figure out what changed between yes and cancellation." Connect & Discover Eddie: LinkedIn: ⁠@eddie-hartman⁠ X: ⁠@EddieRHartman⁠ Book: ⁠Scaling Innovation: How Smart Companies Architect Profitable Growth⁠ 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life →⁠ Amazon⁠,⁠ Barnes & Noble⁠,⁠ Books A Million⁠    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ Instagram:⁠ @mickunplugged ⁠ Facebook:⁠ @mickunplugged⁠ YouTube:⁠ @MickUnpluggedPodcast ⁠ LinkedIn:⁠ @mickhunt ⁠ Website: ⁠MickHuntOfficial.com⁠ Apple:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Isabelle Guarino is the CEO of RAL Academy and a pioneering force in transforming the assisted living industry. Inspired by personal experience and her father's legacy, Isabelle empowers others to profit with purpose by turning residential assisted living into a vehicle for wealth, impact, and dignity. Through her educational programs, bestselling books, and heartfelt mentorship, she helps entrepreneurs create compassionate care homes that honor seniors while giving families peace of mind and financial freedom. Takeaways: Residential assisted living offers a homelike, dignified alternative to institutional care, allowing seniors to age with respect and families to remain connected in meaningful ways. Entrepreneurs can build impactful and profitable businesses in assisted living without being hands-on caregivers, by owning and operating residential homes and leveraging state licensing for both general and memory care. Achieving success in this space (and any entrepreneurial venture) requires taking action, commitment, and coachability—not just knowledge and intention. Sound Bytes: “There’s something in the middle called residential assisted living, and it’s just a much better option for everyone involved.” — Isabelle Guarino “In a traditional big box facility, you’ll have 30 seniors to one caregiver. In an RAL, you might have four to one or five to one. That could be the difference between life and death.” —Isabelle Guarino “You are allowing the daughter or son to be a daughter or son once again... That is so beautiful to give back to families in this way.” — Isabelle Guarino Connect & Discover Isabelle: Instagram:⁠@theisabelleguarino⁠ Podcast:⁠ The Young Boss⁠ LinkedIn:⁠@isabelle-guarino⁠ Website:⁠ Residential Assisted Living Academy⁠ Book:⁠ Young Boss: Your Youth Is Your Power⁠          ⁠ Living Legacy: Invest In Your Community While Creating Significant Cash Flow ⁠ 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life →⁠ Amazon⁠,⁠ Barnes & Noble⁠,⁠ Books A Million⁠    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ Instagram:⁠ @mickunplugged ⁠ Facebook:⁠ @mickunplugged⁠ YouTube:⁠ @MickUnpluggedPodcast ⁠ LinkedIn:⁠ @mickhunt ⁠ Website: ⁠MickHuntOfficial.com⁠ Apple:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ernie Hudson is a Hollywood legend whose career has spanned over five decades, commanding screens in iconic roles from Ghostbusters to The Crow, and powerful television appearances in Oz and The Family Business. Beyond being a celebrated actor, Ernie is a storyteller, mentor, and survivor who has deeply impacted his community and the culture at large. Raised by his grandmother after losing his mother early in life, Ernie’s journey from Michigan theater stages to Hollywood is marked by unwavering faith, resilience, and a commitment to being an example of what’s possible—especially for the African American community. Through his work and his personal life as a father and husband, Ernie embodies integrity, purpose, and the belief in always showing up and giving his best. Takeaways Purposeful Living: Ernie Hudson attributes his career and life’s successes to living with purpose and honoring the gifts given to him, always striving to be a role model and example of possibility. Integrity in Roles: Throughout his career, Ernie has been selective with the roles he accepts, consistently ensuring his characters reflect principle and authenticity—even when it meant turning down lucrative opportunities that didn’t align with his values. Family First: Ernie’s journey as a single father and later as the patriarch in The Family Business highlights his dedication to family, how personal responsibility drove his perseverance, and how being a dad mattered more to him than professional acclaim. Sound Bytes "Because I can. Because I'm still able to. For reasons some of my own, some just God-given, I'm blessed to do what I do." "You have to own up to it. I've tried to maintain a certain integrity in the work that I do." "My job was always to be ready for that opportunity… I just have to show up and be prepared." Connect & Discover Ernie: Instagram: ⁠@erniehudsonofficial⁠ X: ⁠@Ernie_Hudson⁠ 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life →⁠ Amazon⁠,⁠ Barnes & Noble⁠,⁠ Books A Million⁠    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ Instagram:⁠ @mickunplugged ⁠ Facebook:⁠ @mickunplugged⁠ YouTube:⁠ @MickUnpluggedPodcast ⁠ LinkedIn:⁠ @mickhunt ⁠ Website: ⁠MickHuntOfficial.com⁠ Apple:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ilana Golan is a transformative powerhouse with a career spanning elite engineering in the Air Force, founding and selling companies in Silicon Valley, and now empowering high achievers through Leap Academy. As an investor, TEDx speaker, and acclaimed podcast host, Ilana is dedicated to helping leaders and entrepreneurs reinvent themselves, discover their zone of genius, and leap forward with clarity and impact. Her mission is driven by a deep desire to help others avoid regret, build fulfilling careers, and continuously adapt in today's rapidly changing world. Takeaways: Reinvention is Essential: In today’s fast-paced environment, staying adaptable and reinventing yourself is vital—not only for professional relevance but for true fulfillment. Clarity Drives Opportunity: Knowing your direction and crafting your story and brand around it opens the doors to hidden, meaningful opportunities beyond traditional career paths. Grit Meets Purpose: Setbacks aren’t just obstacles—they can become teaching moments that fuel your mission and propel you toward greater impact. Sound Bytes: “If you’re not moving forward at the pace of change, you will fall behind, and lose relevance faster than you think.” “Your brand is your currency, especially now in the lack of trust economy. It’s the only insurance policy you have.” “Success leaves clues—look for what people are already drawn to you for, and lean into your unique zone of genius.” Connect & Discover Ilana: Linkedin:⁠ @ilanagolan⁠ Website:⁠ ilanagolan.com⁠ Leap Academy:⁠ leapacademy.com⁠ Facebook:⁠ @ilanagolan2010 ⁠ YouTube:⁠ @ilanagolan-leap-academy ⁠ Podcast:⁠ leapacademy.com⁠ Instagram:⁠ @ilanagolanleap⁠ 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life →⁠ Amazon⁠,⁠ Barnes & Noble⁠,⁠ Books A Million⁠    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ Instagram:⁠ @mickunplugged ⁠ Facebook:⁠ @mickunplugged⁠ YouTube:⁠ @MickUnpluggedPodcast ⁠ LinkedIn:⁠ @mickhunt ⁠ Website: ⁠MickHuntOfficial.com⁠ Apple:⁠ MickUnplugged⁠ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joe McCarthy is a powerhouse branding strategist and entrepreneur renowned for his relentless approach and trailblazing results in the digital business world. As the brain behind rapidly scaling brands like Gem Social and Grow With Us Agency, Joe specializes in lead generation, crafting magnetic personal brands, and helping influencers and entrepreneurs scale their businesses. Known for his servant mindset and transparency, he takes pride in guiding others to find their voice, optimize their offers, and achieve profitable, sustainable growth online. With a proven track record and a client roster filled with success stories, Joe brings a no-nonsense, value-first approach to building brands that convert. Takeaways: Build a Strong Foundation: Success in personal branding starts with foundational work—clarifying your target audience, your own voice, values, and what unique value you offer. Skipping these steps can leave you struggling to create real impact or connect with the right people. Brand and Lead Gen Go Hand-in-Hand: Building a great brand and effective lead generation aren’t separate pursuits; they’re deeply interconnected. An optimized brand attracts the right audience, while strategic lead gen processes convert interest into tangible results. Value First, Sales Second: Leading with service, not sales, is the key to authentic business growth. When you provide overwhelming value and genuinely care about serving your audience, selling becomes a natural, trust-based outcome. Sound Bytes: “Your brand is your business card and your resume—it shows people upfront your values, beliefs, and skills.” “People don’t share or save content unless they truly resonate with your message. Nail the messaging and the rest will follow.” “If you know your service is great, it’s almost selfish not to get it in front of the people who need it.” Connect & Discover Joe: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realjoemccarthy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-mccarthy-7b691518a/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Realjoemccarthy X: https://x.com/realjoe_mac 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jordan Mendoza is a globally recognized expert in branding and business growth, celebrated for his resilience and trailblazing approach to overcoming adversity. Born to a diverse heritage, Jordan grew up learning lessons in perseverance from his mother, who was born with only one lung. Despite being voted "least likely to succeed" in high school, Jordan defied the odds and built a powerful personal brand, becoming a sought-after keynote speaker and LinkedIn powerhouse. He is the author of "The Life-Changing Power of Adversity," a book focused on turning struggles into opportunities and helping others blaze their own trail to success. Today, Jordan is also the host of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast and is committed to empowering others to find their voice, share their story, and unlock their greatest potential.  Key Takeaways: Adversity is a Gift: Jordan emphasizes that adversity, when faced head-on and unpacked, offers valuable life lessons and growth opportunities. He encourages listeners to view challenges as gifts to be unwrapped, not just obstacles to be endured. Your Story Has Power: Sharing your personal story, especially your struggles and how you overcame them, is essential—not just for personal healing, but for helping others realize they’re not alone and inspiring them to overcome their own challenges. Start Before You’re Ready: Whether launching a podcast, building a brand, or publishing a book, Jordan urges people to take action even if they feel unqualified or nervous. Progress and confidence come from putting in the reps and learning along the way. Sound Bytes: "Adversity is a gift as long as we're willing to open it, to unwrap it, and to dive into all that it has to offer."  "Everyone has a story. Most people haven't mustered up the courage yet to share it."  "If you just start showing up, posting short videos, sharing tips and stories, you'll find your people."  Connect & Discover Jordan: Website: jordanjmendoza.com LinkedIn: @jordanjmendoza Instagram: @therealjordanjmendoza TikTok: @jordanjmendoza Podcast: Blaze Your Own Trail Book: The Life-Changing Power of Adversity 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jennifer Ledwith, founder of ScholarReady, is a renowned educator and mentor based in Houston, Texas, celebrated for her relentless commitment to empowering students both academically and personally. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer specializes in helping students build confidence, attain educational freedom, and achieve college admission success—without the crushing burden of student debt. Through her innovative College Ready program, she works with students and families from as early as seventh grade, focusing on literacy, foundational skills, and practical strategies for long-term academic and financial success. Her approach combines deep care, respect for each student’s unique motivations, and proven methods to help young people unlock opportunities and dreams. Takeaways Educational Freedom Starts Early: Jennifer stresses that the path to real educational opportunity and freedom from student loan debt begins well before the 11th or 12th grade. Building strong reading and comprehension skills from an early age is the foundation for test success and scholarship opportunities. Individualized, Respectful Guidance: Jennifer’s unique approach involves learning each student’s “why” and working collaboratively with them—respecting their knowledge and allowing them to try their own methods while gently guiding them towards proven strategies when needed. Parents as Key Partners: Parents should take an active role in their child’s educational journey, administering practice tests early, understanding their child’s strengths and challenges, and making consistent literacy and academic engagement a family affair, much like youth sports. Sound Bytes “All kinds of technology can be used for good and used for bad—we just have to figure out how to help students learn how to use technology positively.” – Jennifer Ledwith “Education is supposed to give you freedom. When you’re educated, you have choices.” –Jennifer Ledwith “We’ve got to bring that same energy to literacy that we bring to sports. Start early, build a pipeline, and make academic readiness a family priority.” – Jennifer Ledwith Connect & Discover Jennifer: Website: Scholaready.com LinkedIn: @JenniferLedwith YouTube: @scholaready 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shawn French is a speaker, coach, and podcast host whose life and brand are built on resilience, discipline, and unyielding determination. Drawing from overcoming personal adversity and healing childhood wounds, he has transformed his journey into a mission to inspire and push others to stop negotiating with their greatness. Through his work, including the acclaimed "Determined Society" podcast and community, Shawn French empowers leaders and individuals to harness their pain, elevate their standards, and pursue their purpose with intention, discipline, and grit. Takeaways: Standards Over Goals: Success is rooted in maintaining personal standards, not just chasing goals. Standards become your minimum expectation and shape who you are during the journey. Discipline is Freedom: The daily commitment to mundane, consistent habits grants true freedom and peace of mind, allowing individuals to move forward with zero regrets. Embrace the Mundane: Lasting impact and achievement come from relentlessly executing the unglamorous, everyday tasks—even when motivation is low. Sound Bytes: "If it feeds the mission, then eat it, then go for it. But if it moves you further away from your goal, retreat. Don't do it." "You have to be able to drop the walls and take that ego... I have to be vulnerable in this moment and admit that I didn't perform because of me." "Discipline is freedom. Because when you act on that, there's nothing anyone can say... You have earned that moment no matter what." Connect & Discover Shawn: Instagram: @theshawnfrench Podcast: The Determined Society Website: thedeterminedsociety.com X: @theshawnmfrench Facebook: @thewronghouse YouTube: @thedeterminedsociety 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John Assaraf is a renowned entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, neuroscience expert, and founder of NeuroGym. With a career spanning over four decades, John has built multiple multi-million-dollar companies and dedicated his life to helping millions break through self-imposed limits. He is recognized for translating complex neuroscience into practical strategies for personal and professional growth, focusing on the power of identity, mindset, and the mechanics of the brain. John’s mission is to empower others to engineer success from the inside out and unlock their full potential. Takeaways: Identity Drives Change: John emphasizes that true, lasting change begins with transforming your identity—how you see yourself—since you will never outperform your own self-image. The Brain is Wired for Safety, Not Success: Our brains are naturally designed to keep us safe and avoid pain, not to achieve success. Recognizing and consciously working with this wiring is critical to overcoming self-sabotage and achieving new levels. Upgrade Your Inner Software: Just like technology, your beliefs, habits, and identity are ‘software’ that can be intentionally upgraded through practice, self-awareness, and emotional regulation—leading to greater achievement in all areas of life. Sound Bytes: “We will never, ever, ever outperform our hidden self-image of ourselves.” “Our brain is wired to keep us safe, not successful.” “You can practice a new identity the same way a basketball player practices free throws—until it becomes automatic.” Connect & Discover John: Website: johnassaraf.com Facebook: @johnassarafpage Instagram: @johnassaraf X: @johnassaraf LinkedIn: @johnassaraf YouTube: @JohnAssaraf Website: myneurogym.com 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dara Ladjevardian is the innovative founder behind Delphi, the human-centric AI platform that's transforming how mentorship and knowledge are shared in the digital age. Growing up as the child of Iranian immigrants in Houston, Dara was deeply influenced by the resilience and work ethic of his family, particularly his grandfather—a prominent business leader who rebuilt his life from scratch in the US. After creating and selling his first AI startup in eight months, Dara was inspired by the desire to preserve and access his grandfather’s wisdom, ultimately leading him to build Delphi. Today, Dara is on a mission to empower individuals and businesses to scale their influence and legacy through personalized, ethical AI that puts people first. Takeaways Human-first AI Matters: Delphi is purpose-built to empower people, not replace them. Dara’s journey is rooted in making mentorship and wisdom scalable, while allowing users to own their data and curate their digital minds. Legacy and Connection: Dara’s motivation began with wanting to preserve the lived experience of his grandfather. Delphi enables business leaders and entrepreneurs to capture, share, and pass down knowledge for generations. Embracing Vulnerability: Dara encourages leaders to put themselves out there and leverage digital tools to grow their influence with authenticity—because real connection comes from sharing who you are and what you value.  Sound Bytes “We’re not automating humans; we’re putting AI and power in the hands of humans.” “As AI continues to improve, that authenticity, that realness of a human is going to be that much more attractive.” “You should not be afraid to put yourself out there... it’s okay to start putting yourself out there.” Connect & Discover Dara: Website: delphi.ai/dara  LinkedIn: @dara-ladjevardian Instagram: @daraladje X: @daraladje  🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Raheel Siddiqui is a dynamic speaker, coach, and podcast host who embodies resilience and the power of personal transformation. Having lost over 200 pounds on his journey from being overweight and bullied to becoming a beacon of inspiration, Raheel uses his story to empower others to break through barriers—whether those walls are physical, mental, or emotional. Fueled by the memory and lessons of his late father and driven by a passion to help others rise from rock bottom, Raheel now shares his insights via his own Wall Breaker 200 podcast, TEDx stages, and coaching sessions. He brings unmatched energy to every room and is dedicated to helping people discover strength they never knew they had. Takeaways: Admitting You Have a Problem Is the First Step: Transformation begins with accountability and the willingness to recognize and confront your struggles head-on. The Journey Is Just as Important as the Results: Progress requires focusing on the process—commit to the work and trust that the results will follow, in any area of life. Ask for Help and Build Your Support System: Whether it’s joining a team or reaching out for guidance, surrounding yourself with people who care can be the catalyst for real change. Sound Bytes: “Any wall in your life is truly meant to be broken, man. You can get off of the mat. You can be heavyweight champion of the world.” “The old Raheel didn’t have the Raheel right now, and the old Raheel needed the guy that I am now.” “There’s nothing more heartbreaking than to see your parents crying over you, feeling that pain over you. So I said, okay, sure, I promise. So we drove off, we drove home, and the journey begun.” Connect & Discover Raheel: Instagram: @raheelwallbreaker200 Facebook: @raheel.twopointzero 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jesse Cole, famously known as the man in the yellow tux, is a master of reinvention, joy, and building unforgettable fan experiences. As the owner of the Savannah Bananas, Jesse has transformed a struggling baseball club into a global phenomenon by shattering norms and prioritizing fun above all else. Driven by a deep belief in bringing people together and creating moments of joy, he’s become a leading business thinker, author, and inspiring mentor dedicated to showing leaders how to turn customers into raving fans. With innovation at his core, Jesse's contagious energy and commitment to doing the remarkable make him a blueprint for entrepreneurs and changemakers everywhere. Takeaways: Normal gets normal results — Jesse preaches that following industry standards only yields average outcomes; it's bold, memorable actions that set you apart and drive remarkable success. Micro-reinvention matters — You don’t need to overhaul everything at once; continuous, small innovations across touchpoints can reshape experiences and build superfans. Lead with gratitude and values — Companies that embody gratitude and consistently put their “fans” (internally and externally) first, even at a cost, build stronger, more loyal communities. Sound Bytes: “No one gets excited about normal. They get excited about memorable.” “The only way you can be great is if you’re willing to get through the messy to get to the great.” “If you do what everyone else is going to do, you’re going to get the same results as everyone else.” Connect & Discover with Jesse: Website: Find Your Yellow Tux Website: thesavannahbananas LinkedIn: YellowTuxJesse Instagram: @YellowTuxJesse X: @YellowTuxJesse YouTube: @yellowtuxjesse Book: Find Your Yellow Tux           Fans First           Banana Ball 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steve Smith is a legendary former NFL wide receiver, celebrated for his tenacity, intelligence, and relentless drive both on and off the field. From humble beginnings as a “poor black kid who was unsubsidized,” Steve carved out an extraordinary football career with a no-“plan B” mindset, earning admiration as a future Hall of Famer and an inspirational community leader. Post-retirement, Steve has channeled that same passion into business, media, and philanthropy—especially his work in mental health with Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUCK). Known for his authenticity, leadership, and fiercely competitive spirit, Steve continues to impact lives by leading with purpose, candor, and heart. Takeaways: Relentless Focus on Plan A: Steve Smith’s story is rooted in his “no plan B” determination—putting everything into football to change the trajectory for his family, and later carrying that same intensity and commitment into business and philanthropy. Mentorship and Learning: Steve highlights how mentorship allowed him to take the “elevator,” learning from the successes and failures of others to accelerate growth and avoid common setbacks. Emotional Intelligence and Growth: Steve openly discusses improving his emotional intelligence, especially in learning to pause before reacting, reflect on his feelings, and balance his directness with empathy—crucial lessons for both life and leadership. Sound Bytes: “If I couldn’t catch a football, I wouldn’t have got my foot in the door. But understanding my intelligence and my willingness to learn keeps me in the door.” –Steve Smith “Just because they are receiving assistance doesn’t mean you lessen their respect of who they are as a human being.” –Steve Smith “How I can critique but not criticize... and give guys the benefit of the doubt. However, if the film tells enough of the story, I can’t give you what you didn’t earn.” –Steve Smith Connect & Discover Steve: Instagram: @stevesmithsr89 YouTube: @89show YouTube: @ironedoutw89 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ed McCaffrey is a three-time Super Bowl champion and Stanford Cardinal legend who’s just as celebrated for his work off the field as he is for his NFL career. Known for his humility and quiet strength during his playing days, Ed has since become renowned for his philanthropy, founding and running football camps for athletes with Down syndrome and children from military families. He now leads McCaffrey Brands, delivering premium food products and healthy snacks nationwide, all while remaining committed to using his platform to make a positive impact. Whether inspiring the next generation or creating “the best mustard in the world,” Ed exemplifies the all-American values of teamwork, leadership, and giving back. Takeaways: Ed McCaffrey values teamwork and using his platform to uplift others, whether through his philanthropic work, business endeavors, or family legacy. Building McCaffrey Brands was rooted in the desire to bring joy and flavor to everyday life, drawing on lessons from athletics and partnership, and driven by a commitment to quality and purpose. True fulfillment comes from investing in people, building strong teams, and always focusing on providing real value—on the field, in business, and in the community.  Sound Bytes: “You don’t do it to have people hear about it, but it certainly feels fulfilling to me and to Lisa and to our boys who feel that it’s important to give back.” — Ed McCaffrey “Everything we do is to help bring new, creative, premium products to market that make people’s food taste better, that provides them value.” — Ed McCaffrey “Hopefully, people remember me as a good husband, a good father, and someone who cared about other people.” — Ed McCaffrey Connect & Discover Ed: Instagram: @edmccaffrey87 X: @87ed Website: edmccaffrey.com Website: mccaffreybrands.com 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr. is a third-generation “Gramlinitian” and a visionary leader at Grambling State University, where he is reshaping tradition to empower tomorrow’s leaders. With a background that spans financial strategy, transformational leadership, and impactful service, Dr. Lemelle’s mission is to create generational change through education—especially for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students. From serving as student government president to thriving in corporate America and returning to uplift his alma mater, he is deeply committed to harnessing the legacy and innovative spirit of HBCUs to ensure students graduate not only ready for the workforce, but prepared to make a global impact. Takeaways: Generational Impact is Key: Dr. Lemelle’s “because” centers on creating real, generational change for sustainable communities, focusing on the economic empowerment of students and families through higher education. Leadership Differentiates Success: Involvement in student government and extracurricular leadership roles are essential, not just technical skills—leadership, collaboration, and communication are what set students apart and open doors. Pivoting and Integrative Learning are Essential: Today’s success is about merging technology, data, and traditional education while having the agility to pivot and anticipate needs, both for students at Grambling and for leaders everywhere. Sound Bytes: “We are commissioned to create generational impact and change for sustainable communities.” “Gone are the days of this single disciplinary focus. We have to be both—and: humans with technology.” “Having that tank full of good faith and will and love and trust… those elements will help you navigate any challenge.” Connect & Discover Dr Martin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinlemelle/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinlemelle/ X: https://x.com/martinlemelle?lang=en 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Congressman Jim Clyburn is a legendary statesman whose influence spans from advising presidents to serving as a beacon of change and unity in American politics. Representing South Carolina, he is not only a champion of justice and progress but has also shaped the course of history with his powerful endorsements and unyielding voice. With deep roots in the civil rights movement and a life devoted to public service, Congressman Clyburn’s impact resonates across generations—especially inspiring young leaders and change-makers to envision what’s possible through mentorship, storytelling, and unwavering purpose. Takeaways: Legacy and Representation: Congressman Clyburn’s new book, The First Eight, uncovers the overlooked history of the eight African Americans who served in Congress from South Carolina before him, proving the power of representation and the importance of knowing one’s history. Mentorship by Example: Though Clyburn didn’t personally know his forerunners, their stories and those of his own father provided mentorship from afar—showing that guidance and inspiration often transcend direct relationships. Power of Storytelling: Clyburn emphasizes the importance of learning outside traditional education, absorbing wisdom from lived experiences, and communicating with passion and inclusivity—skills he encourages the next generation to develop for real impact. Sound Bytes: “No, before I was first, there were eight.” “Robert Smalls is the most consequential South Carolinian, bar none.” “There’s a certain amount of education that you gotta get outside of the books.” Connect & Discover Jim: Instagram: @clyburnsc06 Facebook: @ClyburnforCongress X:  @RepJamesClyburn YouTube: @RepJamesClyburn Website: Congressman James E. Clyburn Book: The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marlow Campbell is a dynamic leader, coach, and entrepreneur whose journey began on the soccer fields of Raleigh, North Carolina. A former collegiate soccer star at NC State and the first North Carolina homegrown athlete to receive a full scholarship from legendary coach George Tarantini, Marlow's life is a testament to building relationships, embracing diversity, and leading by example. With a background spanning athletics, business, and mentorship, Marlow brings a deep passion for fostering growth in others—whether as a CEO, coach, or father. His philosophy centers on reflection, supporting others in discovering their own purpose, and spreading positivity wherever he goes. Takeaways: The Power of Disconnecting: Taking time to step back and reflect is essential for personal growth, leadership, and maintaining strong relationships—whether it’s a quiet nap, quality family moments, or a simple hour of solitude. Sports as a Life Teacher: Participation in sports helps cultivate teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills. The lessons learned on the field—the wins, losses, and challenges—translate directly to business and life success. The Role of Support and Mentorship: True leadership is measured not just by personal achievements, but by the ability to uplift others, share wisdom, and connect people across communities and backgrounds. Sound Bytes: "Disconnecting is a way for you to reflect and truly analyze what's going on in order to make improvement in your world, in your life." – Marlow Campbell "You’re building on your experiences—taking time away is a way to just mentally take notes and say, okay, this is where I've been, this is where I'm going." – Marlow Campbell "Sport teaches you how to work with others. If you don't know how to work with others, you may struggle." – MarlowCampbell 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Josh Pais is an acclaimed Hollywood actor recognized for his dynamic performances alongside icons like Scorsese, Denzel, and Jennifer Aniston. Beyond his storied film career, Josh is the creator of the Committed Impulse method—a revolutionary approach empowering leaders and creatives to overcome fear, access their full presence, and perform at their peak. Drawing on insights from the worlds of acting and neuroscience, Josh helps people break free from mental roadblocks and ignite their aliveness, whether in the boardroom or on stage. He’s also the author of Lose Your Mind: The Path to Creative Invincibility, distilling his life’s work into practical exercises and guidance for anyone seeking greater authenticity and creative freedom. Takeaways: Transforming Fear into Fuel: Josh believes that nervousness, anxiety, and fear are natural human sensations and advocates for embracing them rather than suppressing them. By feeling these emotions fully, they can become creative or professional fuel rather than obstacles. Presence is Key: Through techniques like his “I’m back” exercise, Josh empowers people to break free from self-critical mental chatter and anchor themselves in the present moment, opening up greater creativity and impact in their work and life. Vulnerability as Power: Rather than viewing vulnerability or emotional intensity as a weakness, Josh asserts that welcoming every sensation—especially during high-stakes moments—creates genuine connection and power. Sound Bytes: “When actors step into the unknown and create in that moment, that’s what engages an audience.” “Feel the charge, it’s not good or bad—it’s just energy. Use it as fuel for whatever you’re doing.” “You have to be a little crazy to go into this and, you know, the thing with rejection is feel it like a bee sting, then clear the slate and be open for what’s next.” Connect & Discover Josh: Instagram: @joshpais Facebook: @CommittedImpulse X:  @JoshPais Website: Committed Impulse 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Isaac Keys is a dynamic force whose journey spans from cracking helmets in the NFL to lighting up TV screens as Diamond Sampson on “Power Book IV: Force.” A two-time All-American and Morehouse Hall of Famer, Isaac embodies relentless ambition and personal reinvention. Beyond his achievements as an athlete and actor, he now steps into the role of author with his new book, "The Grind Don’t Stop, It Just Changes," sharing powerful lessons in resilience, personal growth, and the importance of evolving your circle as your ambitions rise. A passionate advocate for mental health and men’s emotional vulnerability, Isaac’s story is as inspiring as it is relatable. Takeaways: Embrace Change and Growth: Isaac’s journey is all about pivoting with purpose, showing that real progress happens when you’re not afraid to completely change directions, not just adjust your route. The Power of Your Circle: As you evolve, so should your circle—the people around you can either lift you higher or hold you back, making it crucial to surround yourself with those who genuinely support your vision. Vulnerability is Strength: Both Isaac and Mick Hunt stress that celebrating wins and being open about struggles—especially as Black men—isn’t weakness but a vital part of well-being and success. Sound Bites: “The grind don’t stop—it just changes. You never truly stop working, you just shift what you’re hustling for.” — Isaac Keys “Sometimes adjusting isn’t enough. There are moments in life when you need to just change, because life is adjusting with you.” — Mick Hunt “When you try to let go of your past, some people want to hold on because your past benefits them—those are the people you can’t be around.” — Isaac Keys Connect & Discover Isaac: Instagram: @isaackeys LinkedIn: @isaac-keys X: @isaackeys Facebook: @isaackeys Website: IsaacKeys.com Book: The Grind Don't Stop 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amina Altai is an acclaimed coach, healer, best-selling author, and purpose whisperer who has transformed burnout into brilliance and career chaos into conscious clarity. With clients ranging from executives at Google and Deloitte to leaders across industries, she’s redefining what success looks like for mission-driven individuals. Amina’s work centers on the intersection of body, mind, and career, and her latest book, The Ambition Trap, dives deep into healing our relationship with ambition and fostering purposeful success. Passionate about justice, equity, and helping others live into the fullness of their experience, she’s a powerful advocate for breaking systemic barriers and nurturing authentic careers. Takeaways: Purposeful vs. Painful Ambition: Ambition isn’t inherently bad—Amina distinguishes between painful ambition, driven by our core wounds, and purposeful ambition, which is rooted in our truth and wholeness. Interconnection of Body, Mind, and Career: True success isn’t just career achievements—it’s about aligning your work, values, and well-being, allowing space for cycles of growth and restoration. Zone of Genius is for Everyone: Every person has a zone of genius. When organizations and individuals tap into these innate strengths rather than focusing on relentless urgency, both burnout decreases and performance soars. Sound Bites: "Ambition is just a desire for growth or a wish for more life—and that’s inherent in every living thing on the planet, from our human babies to our plant babies." “There are times in our lives where we need new roots. So it feels like a burning down, but it’s actually a rebuilding.” “Success should include your body being well…that should be each of our birthrights.” Connect & Discover Amina: Website: aminaaltai.com Instagram: @aminaaltai LinkedIn: @aminaaltai Podcast: Amina Change Your Life TikTok: @theaminaaltai Book: The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Natajia Miller is a visionary entrepreneur from the Bahamas who has transformed her family’s dream into reality with Embrace Resort on Staniel Cay. Starting from humble beginnings—where her mother paved the way through sheer determination and hard work—Natajia traveled the globe, living in places like Dubai and rural China, before returning home to take their boutique island resort to new heights. Her leadership during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic showcased her commitment to her team and guests, and she’s become known for curating authentic, personalized hospitality experiences that blend Bahamian culture, warmth, and true human connection. Takeaways: Resilience is the heart of success: Natajia’s journey is powered by family legacy, perseverance, and the ability to adapt through hard times like the pandemic. Personalized hospitality stands out: Embrace Resort differentiates itself by offering caring, individualized experiences and fostering genuine relationships—not just luxury amenities. Leadership is about community: Natajia’s approach is grounded in loyalty to her team and the community spirit, proving that small businesses can have a big impact. Sound Bytes: “Service excellence is not just a fake smile. It’s about how that person feels in your presence. Service comes from caring.” “What I used to think was a negative thing—us being so small and not posh—is actually what makes us amazing. Because we have time for your stories.” “When people come to Embrace, they always say, I feel like I visited an aunt… You feel like somebody cares about you at this place.” Connect & Discover Natajia: Instagram: @mindfrotravel LinkedIn: @natajiamillerluxurytravel Website: stanielcayvacations.com Website: embraceresort.com 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jim Burns is a dynamic leader and community builder based in the Upstate of South Carolina. With roots just outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jim has become synonymous with development, community outreach, and economic growth in his adopted hometown. As the Chief Operating Officer for Hartness Development and founder of C LLC, specializing in strategy and execution excellence, Jim combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a deep commitment to purposeful leadership. He is known for championing personal growth, emotional intelligence, and the power of building strong, resilient teams—values that he credits to his “three Fs”: family, friends, and faith. Jim is also a former Greenville County Council member and an active participant in a wide range of local initiatives, leaving a lasting positive impact on his community. Takeaways Growth is Essential: Both personally and professionally, continual growth is key. Jim emphasizes that in business and life, “if you’re not growing, you’re dying”—intentional, measurable growth should be every leader’s focus. Self-Awareness Drives Leadership: Knowing your strengths and weaknesses enables you to build teams that complement your skill set, rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Surrounding yourself with strong, capable people is critical for organizational success. Emotional Intelligence in Action: Leading with emotional intelligence—especially self-regulation and empathy—allows leaders to handle challenges with composure and make better decisions, setting an example for their teams. Sound Bytes “You want your companies to grow, you want personal growth, you want the organizations that you’re a part of to grow—whether philanthropic or community or whatever.” “If you’re not growing, you’re dying... Plan for it. Be intentional about your growth.” “As a leader, what can I control? I can control what I think, what I say, and what I do. I can’t control anybody else.” Connect & Discover Jim: LinkedIn: @jim-burns Instagram: @hartnessliving 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tamara Jackson is the founder of Beaconship, a company dedicated to shaping the future of leadership through character-driven impact in boardrooms and communities. A self-described serial entrepreneur and faith-driven leader, Tamara draws on her extensive corporate background and personal journey to ignite purpose and character in others. With a deep passion for guiding leaders through times of transition, she specializes in developing high-character, high-purpose teams and helping the next generation live—and lead—with urgency and authenticity. Tamara is especially committed to facilitating the Great Wealth Transfer, ensuring that wisdom and opportunity are intentionally passed to future leaders. Takeaways: Character is the foundation of lasting and impactful leadership. Tamara stresses that strong character, more than titles or accolades, distinguishes great leaders and ensures their longevity. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is more important than IQ in today’s work environment. Modern leaders must focus on building authentic relationships, listening deeply, and self-reflecting to successfully guide diverse teams. Purpose-driven teams outperform performance-driven teams in the long run. By focusing on individual motivations and connecting with people on a deeper level, leaders inspire loyalty and higher achievement. Sound Bites: “People over paper. When you lean into relationships and purpose, that's when you truly ignite performance.” “This next generation wants receipts—not just fancy speeches, but transparency, vulnerability, and real connection.” “As a leader, being willing to hit replay—reflecting on your own actions and words—is the secret to building stronger, more connected teams.” Connect & Discover Tamara: Website: beaconship.co Website: leadreviver.pro Instagram: @thebeaconship Facebook: @thebeaconship LinkedIn: @coachtam Podcast: The Beacon Show with Tamara Jackson 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Haley Perlus is an Olympic athlete, renowned performance psychologist, and sought-after coach to C-suite executives, elite athletes, and high achievers across industries. Known as “the performance whisperer,” she blends years of competitive sports experience with cutting-edge mindset mastery techniques, helping individuals and organizations unlock their peak energy, achieve exceptional productivity, and embrace pressure as a powerful tool for growth. Dr. Perlus is a dynamic speaker, bestselling author, and soon-to-be podcast co-host, whose unwavering commitment to caring for others shines through every aspect of her work.  Key Takeaways: Optimal energy flow is about managing your energy—not just your time—so you can show up and perform at your best, both mentally and physically. Productive energy doesn’t always mean feeling positive; uncomfortable emotions like pressure, fear, or frustration can fuel high performance when channeled constructively. Preparation is the “whole ticket” to unlocking productive energy and flow, enabling you to perform smoothly under pressure and lead by example in any environment. Sound Bites: “The only way to really manage our time is to better manage our energy.” “Pressure isn’t the enemy—it’s the invitation to show up, take responsibility, and lead.” “Productive thinking isn’t always positive. Sometimes, things just simply suck—and that can still move us forward.” Connect & Discover Dr Haley: Instagram: @drhaleyperlus Linkedin: @dr-haley-perlus-33ab2219 YouTube: @drhaleyperlus Book: Personal Podium: How to Use Your Mind to Maximize Your Potential In Sport and Life 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Scott Galloway is a serial entrepreneur, NYU Stern professor, and best-selling author known for his candid takes on business, masculinity, and modern leadership. Raised by a single immigrant mother, Scott Galloway built and sold companies worth hundreds of millions and has dedicated his career to unpacking the realities of success and manhood in today's society. His latest book, "Notes on Being a Man," challenges conventional wisdom while offering a blueprint for personal growth, fatherhood, and meaningful dialogue about what it means to be a man. Key Takeaways: The crisis of masculinity today isn't just about men feeling lost—it's reflected in statistics surrounding addiction, homelessness, suicide, and economic viability. Empathy and honest conversations are needed to help young men find purpose and direction. Social isolation and lack of social capital are major issues facing young men, fueled by screen-addiction and technology that keeps them disengaged from real relationships and experiences. True parental impact comes from presence—whatScott Galloway calls "garbage time"—consistent, non-scripted moments where children feel valued and loved. Hard conversations and genuine involvement from male role models are essential for building resilient, confident adults. Sound Bites: "If you walk into a morgue and there's five people who've died by suicide, four of them are men." "Young men age 20 to 30 are now spending less time outside than prison inmates." "Garbage time, having the tough conversations and always ensuring that every day they know... that's the thing, it's most important to me in my life is seeing them and talking to them." Connect & Discover Scott: Book: Notes on Being a Man Instagram: @profgalloway LinkedIn: @profgalloway YouTube: TheProfGShow 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

JoAnne Bass is a trailblazing leader and the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, celebrated for her 31-year military career and transformational impact on service members, veterans, and families. As the daughter of an Army soldier, JoAnne’s lifelong passion for national defense guided her journey from enlisted recruit to the highest enlisted rank in the Air Force, making history as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Now retired and thriving in her “payback tour,” JoAnne serves as a strategic advisor, nonprofit ambassador, and advocate for veteran empowerment, family, and personal well-being—all while continuing to inspire others with her relentless commitment to servant leadership and building a free, prosperous nation for future generations. Takeaways: Military Service & Community: Only 1% of Americans serve in the military, but JoAnne emphasizes that support and understanding must come from the entire country to maintain national security, recruit future talent, and honor those who serve. Leadership as a Journey: Effective leadership isn’t a single moment—it’s a series of “reps and sets” built over decades, marked by learning from every experience and empowering others to reach their full potential. Self-care & Harmonizing Life: JoAnne learned over her career that genuine self-care is essential for leaders, and harmonizing rather than balancing work and family paves the way for meaningful relationships and sustainable success. Sound Bytes: “Only 1% of our nation serves. ... Yet we are a free and prosperous nation because of that 1%.” “Leadership is absolutely a journey... Every assignment that I had, every duty title, every team I worked with—it was all a setup for the next chapter.” “Self-care is not selfish. If I take care of myself, I can be a better mother, wife, leader, airman, and community partner.” Connect & Discover Jo: LinkedIn: @jo-bass Instagram: @thejoannebass 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jacqueline Newman is one of New York City's top divorce attorneys, renowned for her fierce advocacy, strategic clarity, and ability to guide high-net-worth individuals and power couples through difficult transitions with dignity and class. A sought-after speaker and author of "The 12 Secrets to Protecting Your Wealth, Health, and Happiness," Jacqueline combines sharp legal insight with genuine compassion, helping clients navigate the emotional and financial complexities of divorce. With a background influenced by her psychotherapist parents and decades of experience, she’s redefined how divorces can be handled—championing communication, emotional intelligence, and smarter strategies for stronger outcomes.  Takeaways: Divorce is about strategy, not emotion. Emotional intelligence—like self-awareness, empathy, and communication—plays a critical role in navigating both relationships and their endings. Communication breakdown is the number one reason for divorce. Failed expectations and outgrowing each other follow closely, with affairs often being a symptom rather than the root cause. Wealth complicates divorces due to liquidity and valuation challenges, but prenups can actually strengthen relationships by forcing transparent, difficult conversations about money and expectations.  Sound Bites: "You could be as smart as a whip, but if you cannot communicate effectively with my clients in a way they can relate, it’s not going to matter how intelligent you are." "Affairs are one of the big ones—it is so hurtful, but courts are just not interested unless there’s money spent. It’s a hard pill for many people to swallow." "Prenuptial agreements aren’t just practical—they can actually be romantic, because they force couples to learn how to have difficult conversations and communicate honestly about money." Connect & Discover Jacqueline: LinkedIn: @jacqueline-lipson-newman-8425366 Book: New Rules of Divorce: Twelve Secrets to Protecting Your Wealth, Health, and Happiness X: @nycdivorce_atty Website: berkbot.com 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

UGA Game Day Special Release Quincy Carter is a University of Georgia football icon, former Dallas Cowboys starting quarterback, and a model of resilience and redemption. Hailing from humble beginnings in Chicago and Atlanta, Quincy excelled as a multi-sport athlete, being drafted by the Chicago Cubs out of high school before shining at UGA and making NFL history as a trailblazing African American quarterback. His journey, however, has been marked by both triumphant highs and challenging setbacks—including battles with addiction and the struggle to rebuild his life. Today, Quincy is an inspiring speaker and mentor, openly sharing his story in hopes of helping young athletes and anyone facing adversity find purpose, faith, and a path to a brighter future.  Key Takeaways: Overcoming Adversity: Quincy’s story is a powerful example of overcoming personal and professional setbacks, including addiction, through faith, accountability, and support. Breaking Barriers: As one of the few African American quarterbacks to start for both UGA and the Dallas Cowboys, Quincy set a precedent and opened doors for future generations in sports. Redemption and Purpose: Quincy’s second act is all about giving back—he is deeply committed to mentoring youth, advocating for drug-free communities, and spreading a message of hope and resilience. Sound Bites: “Getting that phone call at graduation practice was pretty cool...to get that call from the Cubs, my hometown team, it was a dream come true.” “I started smoking weed, Mick. And it’s a habit that I formed...eventually, it caught up to me. What’s done in the dark eventually comes to light, and it bit me in my butt.” “God gave me grace. He gave me a second chance, man. And I'm just thankful now to be able to tell my story and help someone else.” Connect & Discover Quincy: Instagram: @quincylavoncarter LinkedIn: @quincylcarter Website: quincycarter17.com Website: thequincycarterfoundation.com 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

UGA Game Day Special Release David Pollack is a celebrated former college and NFL football player, twice named SEC Player of the Year and a multi-time All-American. Renowned for his relentless drive and leadership both on and off the field, David has become an inspiration through his faith, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. Beyond his impressive athletic accomplishments, David is a devoted husband, father, and man of God, dedicated to helping others ignite their potential through speaking, writing, and coaching. His unique “50, 40, 10” philosophy and personal story of overcoming adversity are at the heart of his message, motivating audiences to embrace standards, work ethic, and purpose in every aspect of life. Key Takeaways Perseverance Through Adversity: David’s story embodies resilience—whether overcoming a career-ending injury or being fired from ESPN, he consistently demonstrates that setbacks are opportunities for growth and deeper trust in God. Leadership Is Influence: David believes everyone is a leader if they influence even one person, highlighting that leadership starts with caring for others and setting a standard by example. The Importance of Standards Over Feelings: David’s “50, 40, 10” concept emphasizes that showing up, having direction, and pushing through discomfort are what separate the truly committed from the rest in sports, business, and life. Sound Bites “You can outdo 50% of the people in this world by showing up more, showing up with a good attitude, showing up ready to rock and roll.” “When we come to faith, we don’t automatically know how to share our testimony, but everyone can invite someone in, and the most important witness is how we live our lives.” “Don’t worry about how you feel every day, because your feelings change every day...that doesn’t change who you are and what you bring to the table every single time.” Connect & Discover David: Instagram: @davidpollack47 X: @davidpollack47 Website: davidpollack.com Podcast: See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Making It Happen: Lessons from Matt Price’s Kitchen and Career Matt Price, known to millions as Mr. Make It Happen, is a celebrated chef, content creator, and entrepreneur whose viral cooking videos have redefined home cooking for a new generation. From humble beginnings in Richmond, Virginia, Matt climbed the corporate ladder at Capital One, but his lifelong passion for food led him to trade a thriving sales career for building a culinary and media brand. Through YouTube, Instagram, and his renowned DC restaurant, Fraiche, Matt inspires audiences to get creative in the kitchen while staying true to their roots. His signature style—blending authentic recipes, accessible teaching, and steady innovation—has made him a trusted voice for foodies and home cooks everywhere. Takeaways: Consistency and authenticity are key to building a successful brand in content creation—Matt's journey from corporate sales to viral chef proves that mastery and staying true to your voice triumphs over trendy attempts to go viral. Leveraging today’s low barriers to entry, anyone can start building impactful video content with just a smartphone, but real success comes from intentionality, persistence, and a willingness to learn from failure. In both business and creativity, doubling down on your strengths and surrounding yourself with the right team is far more effective than trying to do it all—hire for your weaknesses, focus on your unique gifts, and always be ready to pivot. Sound Bytes: "If you’re going to do it, start now, because the barrier for entry today is as low as it’s ever been. All you need is an iPhone." "I’d rather have one or two people that say, 'it wasn’t for me,' but the rest absolutely love it and rave about it, than everyone just think it was cool." "I just take the time to really learn it. You can’t really teach something you’re not proficient at." Connect & Discover Matt: Instagram: @_mrmakeithappen_  Website: mrmakeithappen.com YouTube: @MrMakeItHappen X: @MrMake1tHappen Restuarant: Fraiche Cookbook: Meet Me in the Kitchen 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Janice Bryant Howroyd is a pioneering entrepreneur, global business leader, and fierce advocate for equity. As the founder and CEO of the ActOne Group, she became the first African American woman to own and operate a billion-dollar business, transforming a $900 loan into a multibillion-dollar global workforce solutions company operating in over 47 countries. An innovator in staffing and technology, Janice credits her family and humble beginnings in Tarboro, North Carolina, for shaping her values of resilience, ethical entrepreneurship, and the power of culture. Her personal mantra—never compromise who you are personally to become who you wish to be professionally—has inspired countless entrepreneurs and leaders worldwide. Takeaways: Authenticity Drives Success: Janice emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, advocating that you should never compromise personal values for professional aspirations. Culture is Foundational: According to Janice, company culture isn’t just a branding exercise—it’s woven into every action, relationship, and decision, impacting both business results and personal fulfillment. Service and Purpose Matter Most: Real success, in Janice’s view, is measured not by wealth but by the impact on family, community, and integrity—the worthy realization of a worthy ideal.  Sound Bites: “Together we win” isn’t just a Bryant family theme; it became a cornerstone of her billion-dollar business. Her FEET philosophy (Freedom to innovate, Excellence in delivery, Everyone and everything matters, Time to understand) is the actionable framework driving her company’s growth and culture. Success is less about financial achievement and more about aligning with a higher purpose and uplifting those around you. Connect & Discover Janice: Podcast: Ask JBH Instagram: @jbryanthowroyd LinkedIn: @janicebryanthowroyd Book: Acting Up: Winning in Business and Life Using Down-Home Wisdom Facebook: @JaniceBryantHowroyd 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.