Blaze Your Own Trail

In this inspiring interview, Kevin Smith shares his journey from corporate success to founding Smith Wealth Advisory Group and Kindness Worldwide. Discover how acts of kindness can transform lives, influence society, and create a global culture of compassion.

Key Topics

Kevin Smith's personal journey and values
The impact of kindness on society and individuals
Practical ways to foster kindness in daily life

Action Items

Practice small acts of kindness daily, such as smiling and greeting others by name.
Send a meaningful note or check in on someone regularly.
Lead by example and be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:20 Kevin's Childhood and Values Shaped by Mother

03:56 Lessons from Kevin's Mom in Business and Life

07:46 Kevin's Academic and Career Path in Finance

11:12 Epiphany and the Act of Kindness on Good Friday 2023

18:31 The Power of Small Acts and Changing Narratives

21:51 The Impact of Kindness Worldwide Movement

27:01 Societal Trends and the Need for Kindness

30:14 Practical Ways to Cultivate Kindness Daily

35:27 Supporting the Kindness Movement and How to Get Involved

37:50 Parting Words and Final Inspiration

Connect with Kevin:

Website: https://www.kindnessworldwide.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-smith-a0040a19/

Thanks for listening to the episode!

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In this episode, Jordan Mendoza interviews Gini Trask about her journey from a family of entrepreneurs, overcoming setbacks, and building a successful travel business to five million dollars. They discuss the importance of organic visibility, podcasting, resilience, and community in business growth.

Key Topics

Building a sustainable business that is good for your nervous system
The importance of organic visibility and podcasting in lead generation
The role of community and networking in business success
Overcoming setbacks and maintaining resilience
The value of organic content and evergreen podcasts

Sounds Bites

"Create a business that is good for your nervous system"
"Having a great coach is the first key to success"
"Keep going, don't quit, no matter what"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trailblazing Entrepreneurs

01:01 Creating Sustainable Business Practices

06:11 Gini's Journey: From Forest Fairy to Entrepreneur

16:05 Navigating College and Personal Challenges

20:25 Grounded in Humility: Lessons from Family and Life

22:41 The Heart of Service in Entrepreneurship

26:37 Building a Successful Business from Scratch

32:55 The Importance of Persistence and Iteration

39:59 Leveraging Podcasts for Lead Generation

45:29 Creating Consistent Lead Flow for Business Success

Work with Gini:

https://speakersplayhouse.com/

Connect with Gini on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gini-trask-54892b14/

Thanks for listening to this episode!

Is your business tuck in the revenue rollercoaster?

See if Jordan's sales coaching is what you are missing to increase the revenue in your business, 5 spots available:

https://calendarpa.com/@jordan/blazing-business-revenue-clarity-call

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In this inspiring interview, Tom Krol shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful real estate coach and entrepreneur. Discover key insights on handling pressure, the importance of fundamentals, and how adversity can be turned into advantage.

Key Topics

Tom Krol's early life and challenges
The importance of handling pressure in business
Fundamentals and basics for entrepreneurial success
Turning adversity into opportunity
The role of reading and continuous learning

Sound Bites

"Focus on fundamentals and basics"
"Start your day with revenue activities"
"Always check the inverse of advice"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tom Krol
01:30 Tom's Early Life and Challenges
05:23 The Journey into Entrepreneurship
09:09 The Importance of Handling Pressure
11:13 First Investment and Lessons Learned
13:58 Keys to Accelerating Success
19:12 Advice for Those at Rock Bottom
23:00 Resources and Final Thoughts

Connect with Tom:

https://coachinginc.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkrolofficial/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

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Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode, Minesh Baxi shares his inspiring journey from India to the US, his insights on education, career skills, and parenting, and details about upcoming events for aspiring speakers and entrepreneurs.

Key Topics

Minesh Baxi's childhood in India and move to the US
The importance of skills over degrees in today's world
The value of growth mindset versus fixed mindset
Parenting strategies for developing life skills
Upcoming speaking and networking events in Florida
The role of assessments in career and personal development
The significance of persuasion and results-oriented skills
Financial literacy and investing for children
Lessons learned from cross-cultural experiences

Takeaways

Most people (only 20%) should attend college, focusing on specific knowledge areas.
Skills like decision-making, persuasion, and results orientation are crucial for success.
Parents should actively teach values, skills, and decision-making to children.
Networking and personal branding are vital; attending events can open doors.
Early investment and financial literacy can significantly impact future wealth.

Sound Bites

"Only twenty percent of people should go to college."
"In a fast-changing world, a fixed mindset is a trap."
"Master persuasion and results orientation to succeed."

Chapters

00:00 — Introducing Minesh Baxi
02:22 — Growing up in Agra and learning to adapt
03:43 — Cricket explained for new fans
06:51 — Cricket strategy and the role of the bowlers
09:52 — Minesh’s perspective on who should go to college
12:33 — Fixed mindset versus growth mindset
15:46 — Moving from India to the United States
17:06 — First impressions of America
21:20 — Why engineering wasn’t the right fit
22:17 — What school teaches—and what it leaves out
23:41 — Decision making as a vital life skill
28:25 — Using assessments to find career fit
30:48 — Teaching kids results orientation and persuasion
34:15 — Writing books that help readers and grow a business
38:53 — Financial literacy and Millionaires in Training
42:20 — The Lake Mary speaker event
45:01 — Networking and who should attend

Connect with Minesh:

Website: https://mbaxi.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stophiringlosers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minesh_baxi/

Register for Minesh's next event: https://mbaxi.com/eventtickets

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode, Dr. Jen Thomas shares her inspiring journey from childhood in Buffalo to becoming a leadership speaker and author. She discusses the importance of human connection, embracing life's ups and downs, and redefining pathways into the workforce.

Key topics

Journey from childhood to leadership
The importance of human connection in work and life
Redefining pathways into the workforce and education
Resilience through life's challenges
The role of mentorship and coaching

Takeaways

Embrace life's ups and downs to discover your true self.
Human connection is the foundation of effective leadership.
There are multiple pathways into the workforce beyond traditional education.
Resilience and adaptability are key to overcoming challenges.
Mentorship and coaching can significantly impact personal and professional growth.

Get a copy of Dr. Jen's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Thirty-Second-Miracles-Finding-Wonder-Everyday/dp/B0HB11HSGL

Connect with Dr. Jen:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasja/

Website: https://www.jen-connects.com/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode, Steve Walsh, known as the hands-on angel, shares his journey from a successful corporate career to becoming an entrepreneur and investor. He discusses lessons learned from sports, leadership, building teams, managing multiple business units, and the importance of authenticity and bold outreach in business growth.

Key Topics

Steve Walsh's background and journey from corporate to entrepreneurship
Lessons learned from sports that apply to business
Top leadership qualities for team building
Managing multiple business units and global teams
The importance of authenticity and boldness in outreach
Lessons from building and investing in startups
The impact of family and personal relationships on career
Strategies for effective networking and relationship building
Insights into fundraising and investor relations
Encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs

Chapters

(00:00) Introducing Steve Walsh, the Hands-On Angel
(01:19) Growing up with sports and strong family foundations
(02:23) Choosing sales over law school
(04:24) What sports teach us about resilience
(07:29) Why sales is a life skill
(09:34) Steve’s rise through corporate leadership
(12:17) Three principles for building strong teams
(14:13) Career moves, family impact, and leadership’s hard decisions
(17:54) Leading large, distributed teams
(23:52) Finding success beyond big titles and companies
(25:16) Mentorship and leadership development
(27:22) How the Hands-On Angel brand began
(34:23) What Steve looks for in startup founders
(38:06) Authentic outreach and bringing value first
(43:36) Why it’s a good time to bet on yourself
(44:47) Action, momentum, and taking the first step
(45:49) Final advice: keep building

Work with Steve: https://www.handsonangel.com/

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/handsonangel/

Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehandsonangel

Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehandsonangel

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

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Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this inspiring interview, Kaleb and Kyler Cook share their journey from small-town Illinois to becoming filmmakers with a faith-driven mission. They discuss their creative process, the importance of community, and how their faith shapes their work, culminating in the of their recently released impactful film 'Just One More' which has won several awards in multiple categories

Takeaways

-Consistent practice and honing craft over years is essential to success.
-Surround yourself with people better than you to elevate your work.
-Faith and community are foundational to impactful filmmaking.

Sound Bites

"Surround yourself with people better than you."
"High quality storytelling makes much of Jesus."
"Embrace the long journey to mastery."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to TwinBolt Media and the Cook Brothers
02:11 Growing Up in Southern Illinois: Culture and Influences
04:46 The Impact of 90s Comedy on Their Creative Journey
08:12 Transitioning from High School to Filmmaking
09:28 The Journey Through Education and Early Career
12:09 The Birth of TwinBolt Media During the Pandemic
13:55 Finding Purpose in Filmmaking and Faith
15:02 The Evolution of Christian Filmmaking
19:00 Addressing Addiction and Community in Their Films
22:37 Growing Up with Brothers and Wrestling
23:57 The Birth of TwinBull: A Partnership in Filmmaking
28:18 The Role of Faith and Family in Filmmaking
30:21 Creating High-Quality Content for a Higher Purpose
34:28 The Inspiration Behind 'Just One More'
38:12 Building Community and Collaboration in Filmmaking
42:08 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

Learn more about Kaleb & Kyler's current & future projects: https://www.twinboltmedia.com/

Watch 'Just One More" here: https://www.angel.com/movies/just-one-more

Connect with Kyler: https://www.instagram.com/kylercook/

Connect with Kaleb: https://www.instagram.com/kaleb_cook_filmmaker/

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is Sponsored by CityGate Studios.

If you are looking for a world-class team to help with your Film, T.V., Podcast or other creative production project in a clean, safe and Christ-Centered environment, look not further!

Visit their website to learn more:https://citygatestudios.com/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

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Jordan Mendoza sits down with Eddie Konialian, co-founder of Netwrk.VIP, for a conversation about resilience, leadership, and why networking should be measured by generosity, not extraction. Eddie shares how growing up in Beirut during the civil war, immigrating to Los Angeles, and building his career in finance shaped his belief that real success comes from helping other people win. They discuss Eddie’s path from sports and early jobs into banking leadership, the lessons he learned from managing teams, and why he built a platform focused on ownership, trust, and relationship quality. The episode centers on one big idea: in a world full of AI and automation, being human is becoming a competitive advantage.

Key topics

• Eddie’s origin story: growing up in Beirut during the civil war and immigrating to the United States in the mid-1980s
• Overcoming language barriers and finding confidence and community through sports
• Lessons from athletics and John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success
• “Raise the floor, not the ceiling”: why results matter more than potential or promises
• Eddie’s reflections on college, completing what you start, and the value of education
• His early jobs, sales experience, and career at Countrywide Home Loans
• Becoming a manager at 23 and learning to lead and coach a team
• The 2008 financial crisis, rebuilding his career, and developing the idea for Netwrk.

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction to Eddie and the episode’s mission
01:22 — Why Jordan wanted Eddie’s full story before talking business
01:53 — Leaving Beirut because of war and starting over in the U.S.
02:17 — Language barriers, being held back, and learning to belong
03:13 — Sports as a bridge to friendship and confidence
04:18 — John Wooden, sports culture, and lessons for business
07:28 — “Raise the floor, not the ceiling”
09:48 — Family pressure, a partial scholarship, and choosing work over college
12:16 — Eddie’s perspective on the value of finishing school
16:57 — First jobs, copier sales, and landing at Countrywide
17:51 — Managing 30 loan officers at 23
19:40 — Why helping employees and customers became the real reward
23:20 — The hardest thing to teach is care
24:47 — Leaving Countrywide, the 2008 crash, and rebuilding at Bank of America
25:45 — Comerica promotion and leading 105 employees
27:33 — Tracking referrals and spotting the Netwrk.VIP idea
30:21 — Eddie’s definition of networking: “sum of all effort”
33:29 — Why CRM data and social profiles need real action behind them
35:15 — What Netwrk.VIP does and why it exists
39:35 — Netwrk.VIP features: dashboard, global reach map, digital passports, and groups
41:04 — The upcoming "netwrk score"
42:45 — Measuring character instead of credit score
44:03 — Where to find Netwrk.VIP and Eddie’s contact information
44:27 — Final thoughts: “Be good people”

Connect with Eddie:

https://netwrk.vip/

https://www.instagram.com/coacheddiek/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode, Chef Andres Hinojosa shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful chef and mentor. Discover how adversity shaped his life, his passion for food, and his mission to empower other chefs to succeed.

Key topics

Chef Andres' childhood and early influences
Overcoming adversity and personal challenges
The founding of Dinner with a Chef and Chefpreneur University
The importance of excellence and service in the culinary arts
Strategies for aspiring chefs to succeed and monetize their passion
The role of faith and purpose in personal and professional growth

Sound Bites

"God uses all things for our good"
"Adversity can be your superpower"
"Success leaves clues"

• 00:00 Welcome and introduction to Chef Andres
• 01:04 Growing up in San Diego and discovering a love of food
• 02:58 His mother’s accident and a life-changing childhood
• 04:27 Moving to Iowa and finding faith through hardship
• 06:14 Taking on adult responsibilities at 14
• 08:00 Marriage, family, and growing up quickly
• 10:45 Turning adversity into purpose
• 12:26 The moment he chose to believe
• 15:53 Early dreams and finding direction
• 17:29 Encouraging his mother through difficult nights
• 19:38 Meeting Danielle and starting a family
• 22:20 Adversity as a potential superpower
• 23:12 Dinner with a Chef and Chefpreneur
• 24:12 His grandmother’s influence and culinary beginnings
• 25:26 Leaving demanding restaurant hours to start a business
• 26:23 Helping chefs build personal chef businesses
• 29:51 Learning excellence and service in luxury hotels
• 33:06 The vision behind Chefpreneur University
• 35:43 Real-world expertise versus online coaching hype
• 39:09 Three tips for becoming a better cook
• 40:00 Use quality ingredients, keep it simple, and season well
• 44:11 Three tips for starting a chef business
• 45:12 Find proven success, persist, and make a plan
• 49:20 Turning vision into strategy
• 50:23 Closing reflections and where to find Chef Andres
• 52:11 Final sign-off

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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Jeff and Debb share their inspiring journey from hardship to living full-time on a cruise ship, emphasizing the power of resilience, faith, and community impact. Their story highlights overcoming adversity and building a life of purpose and impact.

Key Topics

Jeff and Debb's background and childhood stories
The decision to live full-time on a cruise ship
The role of faith and community in overcoming adversity
The journey of building a social media presence and brand
The importance of authenticity and impact in content creation
Strategies for overcoming personal struggles and depression
The significance of setting boundaries and self-care
Future plans for growth, impact, and monetization
The power of sharing stories to inspire others

Connect with Jeff and Debb: https://www.weliveonacruiseship.com/

Grab a copy of Jordan's Best Selling Book: The Life-Changing Power of Adversity: https://www.amazon.com/LIFE-CHANGING-POWER-ADVERSITY-Struggles-Potential-ebook/dp/B0FHYB6JV3

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza speaks with Marcy Axelrod, who shares her journey of overcoming stuttering and how it shaped her understanding of human connection and compassion. Marcy discusses the importance of showing up authentically in life, the continuum of presence, and how art serves as a powerful medium for expression and community engagement. She emphasizes the role of adversity in personal growth and the necessity of being present and compassionate towards others.

Takeaways

Marcy emphasizes that what we do is not who we are.
Her experience with stuttering taught her about interconnectedness.
Adversity can be a gift that shapes our identity.
The importance of being present and compassionate in interactions.
Art is a universal form of expression that everyone can engage with.
We impact the world at every moment through our actions.
The show up continuum helps us understand our presence in the world.
Choosing how we show up can transform our relationships.
Marcy's journey highlights the power of vulnerability and authenticity.
Community engagement through art can uplift others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Marcy Axelrod
06:14 The Journey of Communication and Self-Discovery
15:59 The Impact of Stuttering on Identity
22:54 The Show Up Continuum: Levels of Engagement
27:38 Art as a Medium of Expression
28:01 The Essence of Art and Creativity
34:09 The Role of Art in Community and Philanthropy
45:26 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Presence

Connect with Marcy:https://choosetoshowup.com/https://choosetoshowup.com/

Get a copy of Marcy's Best Selling Book: https://choosetoshowup.com/books

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jordan Mendoza sits down with Marques Ogden for a wide-ranging conversation about reinvention, podcasting, business development, and resilience. Marques shares how he went from NFL player to entrepreneur, then rebuilt his career through speaking, coaching, consulting, and his podcast Get Authentic with Marques Ogden. They also dig into how podcasting can create real business opportunities, why consistency matters before monetization, and how AI is changing content creation and operational systems. The conversation closes with a practical message for anyone in a hard season: focus on the light, keep moving, and never quit.

Key topics

• Marques Ogden’s transition from former NFL player to speaker, coach, consultant, and podcast host
• Why his work now centers on mindset, leadership, sales, and helping organizations build sustainable success
• A customized app his team built for clients that supports KPI tracking, leadership training, communication, roundtables, and dashboards
• How Get Authentic with Marques Ogden became a networking engine that led to clients, referrals, and long-term relationships
• Why podcasting creates value through access, credibility, and relationship building rather than immediate revenue
• The early grind of podcasting, including no monetization at launch, inconsistent guests, and the need to invest before earning
• How sponsorships, consulting, speaking, and coaching now all flow from the podcast ecosystem
• The importance of staying consistent, improving production, and continuing to iterate on clips, thumbnails, and social content
• How Marques structures workshops based on client needs, including half-day and full-day formats with custom proposals
• The positive impact of AI on podcasting and business systems, especially for speed, efficiency, descriptions, workflows, and publishing
• Marques’s shift from resisting AI and CRM systems to using them as core parts of his business
• Advice for anyone in a difficult season: focus on what is good, lean on your network, and keep going until momentum returns

Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome back and Marques Ogden’s journey from the NFL to entrepreneurship

02:05 - Speaking, leadership training, and the legacy of purpose theme

03:03 - Custom client app for KPI tracking, training, and communication

04:21 - Why Get Authentic attracts authentic guests and powerful stories

05:23 - Why business leaders should have a podcast in 2026

06:23 - How podcasting opened the door to Trucordia and other clients

09:57 - The long road to podcast monetization and business impact

10:22 - Early struggles, divorce, and the cost of building the show

12:48 - Keep going when downloads, money, and guests are all uneven

14:06 - Reps, consistency, and showing up instead of riding the wave

15:32 - Podcasting leads to in-person content and stronger client relationships

16:02 - Breaking into the insurance space through referrals and relationships

18:25 - Why sales and trust often happen after multiple touchpoints

19:56 - How workshops are customized for each client’s needs

22:11 - AI as a tool for efficiency, publishing, and content creation

23:55 - Going from anti-CRM to building a system-driven business

27:02 - AI with human touch and why systems matter for scale

28:53 - Message for listeners facing rock bottom

30:07 - Turning adversity into momentum and buying a dream home

32:11 - Be bold, have integrity, take ownership, and never quit

33:39 - Smooth seas never made skilled sailors

Work with Marques: https://marquesogden.com/

Listen to Get Authentic: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-authentic-with-marques-ogden/id1633323257

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jordan Mendoza sits down with Lee Walker, founder of Daily Driver Consulting, to unpack how psychology, sports, international experience, and hands-on accounting work shaped his approach to helping small businesses improve profit. Lee shares how he went from Maryland to Maastricht, learned to see business through a people first lens, and built a model centered on finding leaks, improving systems, and turning teams into profit drivers.In this episode, Lee explains why business is really psychology at scale, how his sports background shaped discipline and mindset, and why his time in the Netherlands changed the way he thinks about work, culture, and business relationships. He also breaks down his approach to small business profit acceleration, plus the assessments he uses for both accountants and other business owners.Key topics

• Lee shares how his background in business psychology and industrial organizational psychology shaped the way he sees management, marketing, accounting, and financial markets
• He explains the lessons he took from football and other sports, especially the idea that discomfort does not mean something is wrong
• He talks about growing up in Elkridge near Baltimore, trying multiple sports, loving video games, and eventually taking school seriously in high school
• Lee describes how he chose experience over credentials in many parts of life, including Boy Scouts, school, and career decisions
• He explains why he studied psychology and business, then added an English minor through classes like poetry, satire, and literature
• He breaks down why he believes every part of business is rooted in psychology, from team management to client behavior to accounting policy
• Lee discusses moving to the Netherlands for his master’s, becoming president of a snowboard and board sports club, and building friendships through international leadership
• He compares Dutch and U.S. culture around dining, drinking, work hours, education cost, and the slower pace of life
• He shares how COVID, visa timing, and travel disruptions forced him to return to Maryland and reset his priorities
• Lee explains how that reset led to better health habits, more certifications, teaching English, and a sharper focus on helping small businesses
• He details how he helped transform an accounting firm from a small startup into a much larger operation while improving internal processes
• He introduces his assessments for accountants and small business owners, designed to identify opportunities, bottlenecks, and profit potential

Timestamps

(00:00) Lee Walker’s background in psychology and profit acceleration
(01:43) Why Jordan starts with childhood context and origin story
(02:08) Growing up near Baltimore and early interests in sports and games
(03:01) From wanting to be a lawyer to wanting to invent something
(04:13) What sports teach about discipline and success in business
(05:01) Two major lessons from football and training mindset
(06:56) High school focus, Boy Scouts, and choosing experience over badges
(07:56) College, fraternity life, and the psychology plus business path
(08:54) Why Lee says every part of business is psychology
(10:19) Moving to the Netherlands for a master’s and building a network
(11:12) Becoming president of a snowboard club and learning leadership
(12:34) Running nonprofit clubs like real businesses
(13:59) Dutch versus U.S. culture and the pace of life
(15:11) Age differences, drinking culture, and social norms in Europe
(18:10) Slower meals, longer conversations, and relationship first business
(19:07) Work hours in Europe versus U.S. consulting and banking
(21:33) Why studying in the Netherlands was such a better value
(26:38) Working in Amsterdam, visa pressure, and the start of COVID
(28:28) Border closures, Switzerland, and the decision to return home
(30:15) Resetting health, habits, and learning after moving back
(31:42) Watching small businesses struggle during COVID relief rollout
(32:40) Starting Lee’s Cool Friends to support entrepreneurs
(33:08) Getting pulled into accounting and people advisory work
(34:32) Improving internal processes while handling client work
(35:27) Getting 150 clients early and cleaning up tax season chaos
(36:53) Choosing small business support over big consulting firms
(37:53) Three and a half years of experience before launching his own firm
(39:12) Assessments for accountants and small businesses
(41:09) Daily Driver Consulting, the new book, and what comes next
(42:40) Lee’s closing advice about community and using available resources

Work with Lee: https://dailydriverconsulting.biz/book-a-call

Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-walker-ms-shrm-cp-66a3b8b0/

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Join Jordan Mendoza as he interviews Dani Lynn Robison, a successful entrepreneur who shares her inspiring journey from music to real estate and business. Discover valuable insights on building wealth, overcoming challenges, and scaling multiple companies.

Key Topics

Journey from music to real estate

Building multiple businesses

Importance of mentorship and coaching

Scaling through strategic investments

Lessons from failures and setbacks

Sound Bites

"Mentors help me fast track results"

"Actions speak louder than words"

"Add value before asking for help"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dani Lynn Robison

01:22 Musical Beginnings and Early Influences

06:22 The Role of Mentorship in Growth

07:18 Navigating College and Early Career Choices

11:06 Cruise Ship Adventures and Life Lessons

19:00 Transitioning to Real Estate and Building a Business

21:05 A Serendipitous Meeting: The Beginning of a Journey

23:45 From Cruise Ships to Art Auctions: A New Chapter

27:00 Transitioning to Real Estate: The Start of a New Career

28:26 Navigating the 2008 Real Estate Market: Challenges and Lessons

32:04 Building a Real Estate Empire: Strategies and Growth

37:44 The Shift to Passive Income: Understanding Investor Needs

41:34 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Investors: Building Relationships and Asking Questions

Connect with Dani:

Website:https://freedomfamilyinvestments.com/

Get Dani's Book: https://prosperity-rx.com/

Schedule a call: https://freedomfamilyinvestments.com/chat-with-freedom/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews René Remsik, a content creator and entrepreneur from Slovakia. René shares his journey from an introverted child to a successful content creator with millions of followers. He discusses the importance of competitiveness learned from sports, the value of networking, and how to navigate social media for content creation. René also delves into his experience building SaaS products and offers advice for aspiring creators and business owners.

Takeaways

René is a full-time content creator with a focus on AI.

He has over 2.3 million followers across various platforms.

Competitiveness from sports has shaped his business mindset.

Networking is crucial for success in any field.

Social media allows for content creation from home.

Consistency in posting is key to growing an audience.

Starting as a creator can lead to various business opportunities.

Building SaaS products can complement a personal brand.

Reposting successful content can lead to more views.

Using AI tools can streamline content creation processes.

Sound bites

"Your network is your net worth."

"Volume is key in content creation."

"Be consistent all the time."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to René Remsic

01:56 Early Life and Background

04:15 Lessons from Sports and Competitiveness

08:52 The Importance of Networking

10:45 Navigating Social Media Platforms

17:04 Starting as a Creator vs. Business Owner

21:40 Developing SaaS Products and Tools

29:05 Building an Ecosystem of Tools

36:02 Final Thoughts and Advice

Connect with Rene:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aitrendz.xyz1

Website: https://skysnail.io/

Website:https://www.viralsky.ai/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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Join us as Alan Seales shares his extraordinary journey from childhood in New Orleans to a diverse career spanning theater, technology, and Broadway production. Discover lessons on teamwork, resilience, and the power of creativity in navigating career shifts and building impactful projects.

Key topics

Career transitions from sports to tech to theater

The importance of teamwork and trust

Leveraging creativity and technology in career growth

Sound bites

"Be the best you you can be."

"Think big, think outside the box."

"Find what you really want to do."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:37 Early Years in New Orleans and Florida

01:03 Moving to North Carolina and College Choices

02:01 Early Interests in Tech and Entertainment

02:26 Lessons from Playing Sports and Teamwork

03:48 Key Lessons on Teamwork and Humility

05:13 The Power of Building Great Teams

06:34 Choosing NC State and College Experience

09:22 College Years: Theater and Engineering

10:46 Transition to Professional Acting and Tech Roles

12:04 Work at Google and Tech Innovations

19:20 Transition from Tech to Broadway and Podcasting

23:31 The Impact of Digital Auditions and Networking

30:01 Google Culture and Creative Initiatives

39:16 Culture Shift at Google and New Opportunities

41:27 Starting Broadway Podcast Network

43:09 Leaving Google and New Ventures

50:50 Investing in Broadway and Future Projects

52:33 Advice for Aspiring Trailblazers

53:54 Final Words and Inspiration

Connect with Alan:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-seales-158a469/

https://broadwaypodcastnetwork.com/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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Sharon Oliphant shares her inspiring journey from a large homeschooling family to becoming a faith-based film producer and actress. Discover how she overcame fears, took risks, and stayed true to her calling in the competitive film industry, all while balancing family and faith.

Key topics

Journey from homeschooling to acting and filmmaking

The importance of faith and risk-taking in career decisions

Balancing family life with a passion for film

The process of producing faith-based movies

Lessons learned from entrepreneurial parents

Sound bites

"Admit what you are created to do."

"It's worth it. It's so worth it."

"Your kids will blaze a trail too."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sharon Oliphant

01:06 Sharon's Early Life and Influences

11:07 Lessons from a Trailblazing Mother

14:19 The Journey to Finding Purpose

21:06 Navigating Career Choices and Family Life

25:31 Taking Risks and Embracing Change

28:07 The Commitment to Crafting Stories

30:47 Navigating Challenges in Filmmaking

34:19 Divine Connections and New Opportunities

36:33 Taking on New Responsibilities in Film Production

38:48 The Journey of Faith and Film

41:43 Empowering the Next Generation

46:52 Reflections on a Trailblazing Journey

Connect with Sharon:

Email: Sharon@21fivefilms.com

https://www.instagram.com/sharonoliphant_/

21 Five Films: https://www.instagram.com/21fivefilms/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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In this episode, Cherif Medawar shares his inspiring journey from hotel management in Switzerland and the US to becoming a successful real estate investor and educator. Discover his proven strategies for building wealth through commercial real estate, networking, and innovative deal-making techniques.

Topics:

Cherif Medawar's journey from hospitality to real estate

The importance of networking and relationship building

Strategies for increasing property value and financing deals

The DCBA formula for success in real estate

Innovative deal-making techniques and deal structuring

Sound bites

"He was very wealthy and very honest"

"The deal in Martinique changed my life"

"Take calculated risks and act quickly"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cherif Medawar

00:58 Early Life and Education in Egypt

02:47 Transition to the United States and Hotel Management

04:29 Lessons from the Hospitality Industry

07:26 Cultural Shift: From Switzerland to UCLA

12:03 Working with Edmond Beasari: The Beginning

12:14 Growth and Learning Over Eight Years

16:26 A Life-Changing Deal in Martinique

22:19 Mentorship and the Path to Independence

23:20 The Journey of Self-Education

25:02 Transitioning to Real Estate Success

29:23 The Power of Commercial Real Estate

30:39 Tips for Aspiring Real Estate Investors

43:28 Building a Real Estate Fund and Legacy

Connect with Cherif:

https://www.cherifmedawar.com/

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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Jordan Mendoza interviews David Packouz, the real-life inspiration behind the movie War Dogs, exploring his journey from religious upbringing to government contracting success. Discover how David leveraged his entrepreneurial spirit, navigated legal challenges, and now teaches others to win government contracts through his War Dogs Academy.

Key topics

David's background and early life

The story behind the War Dogs movie

How David got into government contracting

The process of winning government contracts

Lessons learned from legal challenges and success

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to David Packouz and His Journey

02:51 Early Life and Religious Background

06:50 Rebellion and the Path to Entrepreneurship

07:19 First Steps into Business and Music

17:09 Transition to Government Contracting

20:29 Understanding Government Contracting

23:02 Success Stories from War Dogs Academy

29:59 The Genesis of War Dogs Academy

35:58 Building a Real Business: The Importance of Integrity

37:50 The Role of Community in Success

40:34 The Journey to Hollywood: From Infamy to Fame

51:22 Finding Fulfillment in Business and Life

Connect with David:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/davidpackouz/

War Dogs Academy - https://wardogsacademy.com

InstaFloss - https://instafloss.com

SingularSound (Beat Buddy) - https://www.singularsound.com

TrustPilot reviews for War Dogs Academy - https://www.trustpilot.com/review/wardogsacademy.com

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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Linda Kim shares her inspiring journey from corporate tech to successful Airbnb arbitrage and coaching. Discover actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and tips to accelerate your side hustle into a thriving business.

Key topics

Airbnb arbitrage strategy

Mindset and overcoming fear

Design as a profit driver

Automation for passive income

Scaling and partnership in real estate

Takeaways

Investing in coaching accelerates success.

Design can increase profits by 30%.

Mindset is crucial for overcoming rejection.

Automation enables working fewer hours.

Taking action despite fear leads to breakthroughs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Linda Kim's Journey

02:25 From Corporate to Entrepreneurship

05:11 The Decision to Invest in Coaching

07:52 Achieving Rapid Success in Airbnb

10:56 Mindset and Overcoming Challenges

13:44 Transitioning from Corporate to Full-Time Airbnb

16:39 Understanding Airbnb Arbitrage

19:45 The Importance of Design in Airbnb Success

22:16 Coaching and Helping Others Succeed

25:33 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Work with Linda:https://www.bnbmasterysociety.com/contact

Connect with Linda: https://linktr.ee/itslindakim

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Actor, Podcaster or Creative?

Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more!

Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and the creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop with 30 tools to help you take action an grow your business and brand for just $97 per month!

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

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