Afleveringen

  • Matt sits down with Aaron Hageman, a lifelong entrepreneur and visionary leader who scaled his business from $27 million to an astonishing $2 billion. Aaron shares his story of overcoming personal and professional challenges and developing the 75X strategy that redefines business scaling. You’re sure to gain lessons on resilience, strategic planning, and leadership as Aaron takes us into the art of punching through goals and building systems that work for massive growth.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Meet a Visionary Guest - Aaron Hageman00:01:09 - A Life of Building and Leading00:04:33 - The Curveballs That Shape Us00:08:15 - The Power of Rest and Resilience00:15:03 - Think Big, Plan Bigger00:21:40 - Breaking Through Limits: A 75X Journey00:25:04 - Dreams Beyond the Horizon00:25:54 - What Martial Arts Taught Business00:26:58 - The People Who Build Empires00:29:57 - Why Your Network Matters Most00:32:53 - Hobbies That Fuel High Achievers00:38:10 - Books, Beats, and Big Ideas00:42:23 - Gratitude as a Growth Mindset

    Links and Resources:

    Aaron on LinkedInAaron on Instagram Hageman EnterprisesFrom Dropout to Delivery Kingpin by Aaron Hageman

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  • Matt has a very inspiring talk with Sue Saller, a multi-faceted author, coach, and podcaster who opens up about her bold decision to uproot her life, move across the country, and face the challenges of change head-on. She goes into overcoming fear, embracing growth, and finding authenticity in her path. Sue explains how small steps can lead to big wins in life. Are YOU ready to redefine YOUR story? 

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - A New Year, A Bold Start00:00:25 - Snowy Days and Deep Connections00:02:09 - Who Is Sue Saller?00:02:44 - The Spark That Changed Everything00:06:09 - Facing Fear, Finding Freedom00:07:05 - The Big Leap to Iowa00:11:19 - Tears, Triumphs, and Walmart00:16:51 - Podcasting: Sue’s Creative Sanctuary00:21:59 - Meeting Brian Johnson: A Life Shift00:23:13 - Conversations That Transform00:24:24 - Anti-Fragility: Beyond Resilience00:26:50 - Mantras That Move Mountains00:29:22 - Dreams, Goals, and the Year Ahead00:33:40 - Writing a Book in 60 Days00:37:39 - Wisdom to Carry Forward

    Links and Resources:

    Sue SallerSue on LinkedInSmall Steps, Big Wins by Sue SallerSMALL STEPS BIG WINS™ with Sue Saller Podcast

    Book Recommendations:

    The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. SingerThe Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer

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  • Matt welcomes Amy Chambers, a leader, marathon runner, and advocate for personal growth and transformation. Amy shares her story of overcoming a traumatic breakup that became the catalyst for deep self-reflection, growth, and ultimately a shift in mindset. She and Matt discuss accountability, the role of emotional anchors, and the mindset shifts required to face life’s hardest challenges. Amy opens up about her leadership philosophy, the importance of gratitude, and the lessons learned from running marathons—both on the track and in life. This episode is packed with insights on growth, resilience, and leading with intention.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Fuel for Resilience: The Start of Something Special00:00:35 - The Optimist Meets Amy Chambers00:01:27 - Leadership Redefined: A New Perspective00:06:43 - Why Growth Never Ends00:08:46 - When Life Breaks You: Amy's Story Begins00:13:51 - The Long Road to Transformation00:17:22 - Anchors That Keep Us Afloat00:19:21 - The Surprising Power of a Social Feed00:22:12 - Gratitude: The Morning and Evening Rituals00:24:48 - From Fixed to Growth: A Mindset Shift00:26:22 - Turning Adversity into Opportunity00:34:59 - Stay Connected with Amy Chambers00:36:20 - A Simple Formula: Hope and Belief00:39:21 - Music That Moves Us00:41:50 - What It Means to Be an Eternal Optimist

    Links and Resources:

    Amy M. ChambersAmy on LinkedInAmy on InstagramAmy on YouTube

    Book Recommendations:

    Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential by Brian JohnsonMindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol DweckThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

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  • In this deeply moving episode of The Eternal Optimist Podcast, Lydia Knight shares her extraordinary story of surviving a cult upbringing, an abusive marriage, and a life-threatening eating disorder. Through raw vulnerability and unflinching honesty, Lydia takes us on her journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. From confronting generational trauma to creating pathways for others to heal, Lydia’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and hope. Her insights into deprogramming harmful belief systems, embracing vulnerability, and finding true freedom make this episode a must-listen for anyone on a healing journey.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 – A heartfelt welcome to a new year and a powerful dose of eternal optimism.00:00:45 – Meet Lydia Knight: A courageous voice with an extraordinary story of resilience and transformation.00:01:26 – Redefining Eternal Optimism: How hope and growth intersect to create lasting change.00:03:14 – Lydia opens up about her harrowing childhood growing up in a cult and the scars it left behind.00:08:28 – A tearful reunion after 25 years: Lydia’s emotional story of reconnecting with her father.00:14:38 – Breaking free from an abusive marriage: Lydia shares the hard-earned lessons from reclaiming her independence.00:17:36 – From secrecy to freedom: Lydia’s powerful journey of overcoming a life-threatening eating disorder.00:20:09 – Split: Lydia announces her upcoming memoir, a double narrative written with her father.00:23:13 – The hidden epidemic of eating disorders: Why open conversations and real solutions are critical.00:24:23 – Deprogramming harmful beliefs: Lydia explains her approach to healing and breaking free from toxic thought patterns.00:26:45 – A turning point: Lydia reflects on the breakthrough that began her journey to true healing.00:27:09 – Survival mode: How Lydia escaped the mental programming of her cult upbringing.00:28:30 – The power of honesty: Lydia’s life-changing moment of public vulnerability and the ripple effect it created.00:31:21 – Finding your people: The importance of safe spaces and trusted communities for sharing your story.00:33:37 – Healing beyond survival: How dreams and passion can guide the next chapter of your journey.00:35:44 – Returning to the cult: Lydia’s emotional visit back, seeking closure with compassion and grace.00:41:27 – The SHE Center’s mission: Empowering individuals to deprogram from trauma and reclaim their power.00:45:45 – Quickfire wisdom: Lydia shares her favorite books, music, and a heartfelt reflection on eternal optimism.

    Links And Resources:

    The She CenterLydia Knight on LinkedInLydia Knight on TikTok

    Book Recommendations:

    The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself
  • Matt sits down with Matt Dawson, a world-record-setting extreme adventurer, speaker, and founder of Dawson’s Peak Foundation. They discuss how Dawson went from a successful yet unfulfilled investment banker to a purpose-driven explorer pushing human limits for a cause bigger than himself. Dawson shares his life-altering moments on Everest, rowing the Atlantic, and crossing the Mojave Desert—stories of resilience, purpose, and finding strength through surrender. Matt explores how Dawson’s lessons from extreme adventures apply to anyone seeking meaning and connection, regardless of their path. It’s a conversation about living with intention, embracing challenges, and understanding that true success lies in service to others.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 — Where Optimism Meets Unstoppable Adventure00:00:23 — The Man with Records, Peaks, and Purpose00:00:54 — The Final Spotlight: No Pressure, Right?00:01:18 — The Field Goal Kick of Life00:01:30 — Unmasking the Real Dawson00:02:41 — World Records, Oceans, and Unfinished Business00:03:35 — The Grand Slam That Almost Was00:05:47 — A Mission Bigger Than Mountains00:08:56 — 213 Miles of Desert Silence00:11:54 — Breaking Down to Break Through00:14:34 — Tears, Everest, and an Oatmeal Epiphany00:19:41 — Turning Pain into Purpose00:21:50 — Your Mountain Might Not Be a Mountain00:23:47 — Beyond Money: A Different Kind of Wealth00:24:52 — The Mirage of More00:25:41 — Stillness is the Loudest Answer00:28:44 — Dawson’s Peak: More Than Just a Name00:31:13 — Training Alone: No Music, No Excuses00:34:49 — Strength Isn’t Always Loud, Surrender Isn’t Always Weak00:41:28 — Wisdom, Books, and the Road Less Climbed

    Book Recommendations

    Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklMeditations by Marcus AureliusThe Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

    Links and Resources

    Matt DawsonMatt on LinkedInDawson on InstagramStrength in Surrender by Matt DawsonDawson’s Peak Foundation

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  • Matt Drinkhahn sits down with Ellen Petry Leanse for a thoughtful and impactful conversation about the power of curiosity, slowing down, and embracing life’s natural seasons. Ellen shares insights from her deep experience in neuroscience, coaching, and personal reflection, offering practical tools like the ABC method (Aware, Breathe, Curiosity) and the power of open-ended questions to navigate challenges and foster connection. Together, Matt and Ellen explore the idea of the “midlife chrysalis” and how obstacles—especially those within ourselves—can become gifts if we choose to see them that way. This conversation is a guide to approaching life with presence, purpose, and a brain-aware mindset.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – A Door Opens: Welcome to a Transformative Conversation00:00:24 – Meet Ellen: The Curious Brain Enthusiast00:01:23 – Behind the Brain: Where Science Meets Everyday Life00:03:39 – Curiosity: The Brain’s Hidden Superpower00:06:23 – From Theory to Practice: Curiosity in Action00:09:35 – Life’s Seasons: Navigating Growth and Change00:18:49 – The Chrysalis Moment: Midlife Reimagined00:22:23 – The Zipline Story: A Lesson from the Brink00:24:28 – Pain or Information? Redefining How We Process Suffering00:27:45 – Brain Balance: Finding the Equilibrium We Crave00:29:35 – The Journaling Effect: Magic in Daily Reflection00:32:18 – Core Values: The Blueprint for Inner Peace00:36:05 – The Obstacle Within: Confronting the Self00:37:51 – Dreams and Impact: A Future Worth Building00:39:53 – Final Threads: Wisdom to Carry Forward

    Book Recommendations

    I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica GuzmánThe Source by Dr. Tara Swart

    Links and Resources

    Ellen Petry LeanseEllen on LinkedInEllen on InstagramThe Brain and Beyond

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  • Matt welcomes Jeff Fields, a former law enforcement officer whose journey took him through the depths of addiction and the fight to reclaim his life. Jeff shares the tough choices he faced, the trauma he carried from both childhood and his career, and the turning points that led him to sobriety. With honesty and heart, Jeff opens up about the impact of his addiction on his family, the critical role of faith in his recovery, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience, humility, and the power of moving forward. It's a talk about struggle, redemption, and the strength it takes to rewrite your story.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – A Guest with a Serendipitous Story00:00:43 – Jeff Fields: A Life Unfiltered00:00:58 – The Moment Sobriety Became Non-Negotiable00:01:55 – Behind the Badge: A Career in Shadows00:02:44 – When Two Worlds Collide: A Law Enforcement Love Story00:03:40 – The Cost of Addiction: A Family’s Turning Point00:06:49 – Unpacking the Past: Therapy’s Hardest Questions00:13:29 – Duty and Darkness: What Law Enforcement Leaves Behind00:16:41 – Ghosts of the Past: Confronting Childhood Trauma00:18:48 – Fragmented Memories, Whole Truths00:19:12 – Naming Demons: Trauma and Addiction’s Link00:20:39 – The Withdrawal Nobody Warns You About00:22:20 – On the Brink: Detox and Survival00:24:07 – Presence: The Gift That Changes Everything00:25:37 – Sobriety Is a Daily Battle, Not a One-Time Win00:27:57 – From Cop to Author: Sharing the Unvarnished Truth00:31:47 – Books That Heal and Inspire: Jeff’s Picks

    Book Recommendations

    The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.Dangerous Prayers by Craig GroeschelThe Bible

    Links and Resources

    Jeff FieldsJeff on LinkedInSober from Sin13:33 Consulting

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  • Matt welcomes Cheryl A. Heller to hear how she went from corporate executive to fractional CFO and strategic advisor. They explore the really hard times behind balancing a demanding career with family challenges, including how Cheryl supported her daughter through anxiety and personal growth. Cheryl shares insights for business owners, from understanding financial metrics to setting up KPIs that drive success. The conversation also touches on building resilience, managing burnout, and finding clarity in chaos. It’s an honest look at the lessons learned through challenges and how they shape leadership and life.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Where It All Begins00:00:39 - Who Is Cheryl Heller?00:01:06 - From Corporate Walls to New Horizons00:02:08 - Numbers Tell a Story00:02:41 - The Chaos We Carry00:04:10 - Breaking Through Family Storms00:13:03 - The Leap Into Entrepreneurship00:15:41 - Inside the CFO Mindset00:22:13 - Success Beyond the Spreadsheet00:25:13 - Wisdom Worth Sharing00:28:52 - Rapid Reflections and Closing Notes

    Book Recommendations

    All books authored by Dan SullivanThe 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

    Links and Resources

    Cheryl on LinkedInCheryl on InstagramDemystifying Financial Jargon: 30 Terms You Need to KnowStrategic Board CollectivePillar One Consulting

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  • Matt welcomes Kelly Resendez, founder of GoBundance Women, an ambitious leader and advocate for women's empowerment. Kelly shares her life-changing journey from perfectionism and overachievement to accepting abundance and authenticity. She opens up about experiencing tragedies, including supporting her family through unthinkable hard times, and how these experiences shaped her commitment to a shame-free, present-focused life. Kelly gives a look into the power of feminine energy, the impact of stress, and how we can create a more balanced and inclusive world. Tune in to learn about tools to overcome self-sabotage and reclaim their worth.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Energy-Filled Welcome and Start00:02:05 - Meet the Trailblazer: Kelly Resendez00:06:34 - Breaking Free from Perfectionism00:11:36 - A Defining Awakening Moment00:19:06 - Turning Challenges into Growth00:26:01 - A Radical Take on Health Advocacy00:27:56 - Redefining Women’s Leadership00:34:12 - Lightning Round of Insights and Farewell

    Links and Resources

    Kelly ResendezGoBundance WomenGoodLeapBig Voices: Increase Joy, Reduce Suffering, Think DifferentlyFoundation to Sustainable Success: A Conscious Guide to Mastering the Mortgage BusinessKelly on LinkedInKelly on Instagram

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  • Matt reconnects with Cathy Christen, a powerhouse in leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Cathy shares how she went from burnout at the peak of her career to finding sustainable success by redefining priorities and leadership strategies. They talk about how important it is to live intentionally, the power of mentorship, and how Cathy’s experiences have shaped her mission to help others achieve financial and time freedom. She explains how shifting from a "do it all" mindset to empowering others has allowed her to reach new levels of growth and fulfillment in her life.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Starting the Eternal Optimist Journey00:00:14 - A Reunion 15 Years in the Making00:00:54 - From Small Beginnings to Big Impact00:01:13 - Reflecting on Shared History00:02:21 - Early Struggles That Shaped a Vision00:04:34 - The Breaking Point That Changed Everything00:10:05 - A Mentor’s Words That Sparked a Revolution00:13:20 - Choosing Change Over Comfort00:19:29 - Building a Dream Team for Success00:21:44 - The Power of Trusting Your Team00:23:32 - Shifting from Doing to Leading00:24:44 - Redefining Control in Business and Life00:27:47 - Finding a Partner Who Amplifies Your Potential00:31:23 - Stepping into the Power of Feminine Energy00:34:45 - Daily Habits That Transform Mindsets00:38:25 - Rapid-Fire Reflections and Final Takeaways

    Links and Resources

    Cathy ChristenCathy on LinkedInCathy on InstagramGoals + Greatness Unleashed PodcastGoals + Greatness on YouTubeGoBundance Women

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  • Jonathan Bogner’s story is one of resilience and unyielding optimism. After surviving two strokes, navigating aphasia, and ultimately undergoing a life-altering heart transplant, Jonathan has redefined his purpose. A producer of films and reality shows, Jonathan now uses his platform to advocate for organ donation and shine a light on the challenges faced by caregivers and patients alike. He shares how rigorous optimism, rugged flexibility, and resilience have become his guiding principles in overcoming adversity. 

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - A warm welcome to the Eternal Optimist Podcast00:00:19 - Meet Jonathan Bogner: A man of resilience00:00:57 - Achievements that paved the way00:02:21 - The battle begins: Health challenges and heart failure00:07:39 - Living life with a defibrillator00:10:25 - When your chest starts beeping: A surreal realization00:12:48 - The toll of repeated shocks and heart degradation00:15:00 - "Does size matter?" The heart transplant waiting game00:18:15 - The unexpected gift of a woman’s heart00:20:07 - The delicate balance of optimism and medical reality00:22:48 - Inside the heart transplant experience00:27:45 - Aphasia and intubation: A fight to communicate00:31:13 - Countdown to a heart transplant00:34:41 - Redefining routines post-transplant00:36:08 - Mental health and the philosophy of optimism00:42:01 - Juggling life’s roles: Caregiver, creator, and survivor00:45:00 - The three R's: Rigorous optimism, resilience, and rugged flexibility00:48:50 - Wisdom and reflections to carry forward00:55:15 - Lightning round: Favorite books and life-changing insights

    Links and Resources

    Jonathan BognerJonathan on LinkedInPersonal StoriesJonathan on IMDb

    Book Recommendations

    Master of Change by Brad Stulberg

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  • Matt sits down with Chris Grainger to explore how life's hardest challenges can shape purpose and leadership. Chris shares his journey from losing his daughter to embracing his faith and building "The Lion Within Us" ministry. They discuss the importance of empathy, resilience, and stepping into roles of leadership at home and in the community. Chris and Matt talk about the losses they’ve experienced, leaning into faith, and the responsibility of building others up while being grounded in their values.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Welcome to the Eternal Optimist00:00:22 - Who is Chris Grainger?00:01:21 - A Journey of Faith00:02:29 - The Shift to Entrepreneurship00:03:36 - Facing Life’s Hardest Challenges00:05:19 - Turning Loss into Compassion00:10:54 - A Ministry Born from Purpose00:17:20 - Navigating Faith and Politics00:27:59 - Creating a Space for Growth00:32:46 - Rapid Fire and Closing Insights

    Links and Resources:

    Chris on LinkedInThe Lion Within Us

    Book Recommendations:

    Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim and Renée MauborgneAll books by C.S. LewisThe Bible

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  • Matt sits down with Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable, to discuss the transformative power of curiosity, resilience, and personal growth in both life and business. Chris talks about going through the fallout of his business partner's sudden legal troubles, balancing personal and professional crises, and the long journey toward forgiveness and healing. From the importance of breathwork and gratitude journaling to building a culture of "leaning in," this episode is a masterclass in overcoming challenges and leading with intention. Tune in for strategies and an inspiring story of growth through adversity.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Meeting Chris Taylor: The Eternal Optimist Who Turns Challenges into Opportunities00:01:33 - A Lego Guitar, A Life of Curiosity: The Artifacts That Define Chris00:04:51 - Above the Meth Lab: A Canadian's Take on U.S. Elections00:08:24 - When the World Falls Apart: Surviving Business and Personal Crises00:15:56 - Breathing Through Chaos: Mastering Stress with Simple Techniques00:20:57 - Pedaling Toward Peace: How Cycling Fuels Joy and Freedom00:25:56 - Mastermind Talks Magic: Finding Community and Perspective00:27:18 - Breaking Free: Moving from Survival to Purposeful Growth00:29:15 - Turning 40: Reflecting on Life’s Biggest Questions00:30:17 - Gratitude, Growth, and Game-Changing Habits00:34:38 - Chris’s Journey to Building a Behavior Change Platform00:36:36 - Books That Shape Us: Lessons from Godin, Vaynerchuk, and More00:44:53 - Lightning Round of Inspiration: Optimistic Books, Music, and Life Tips

    Links and Resources

    Chris on LinkedInActionable

    Book Recommendations

    Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan Dr. Benjamin HardyLinchpin by Seth GodinAll books by Seth GodinAll books by Gary Vaynerchuk

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  • Matt dives deep with Kasim Aslam to talk about how our understanding of money, labor, and innovation impacts, for better or worse, the way we work and live. From the flaws of fiat currency and the petrodollar system to the transformative potential of AI, Kasim pushes back against societal norms about growth and efficiency. He gives us a look into building businesses by harnessing people’s potential, empowering global talent, and embracing the inefficiencies that make small businesses thrive. Their conversation gives a fresh perspective on the future of work and society.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Start of an Enlightening Journey00:00:37 - Meet the Marketing Titan: Kasim Aslam00:01:41 - The Shocking Truth About the Petrodollar00:05:01 - Inflation: The Silent Thief of Labor Value00:11:25 - How AI Could Reshape Society00:15:58 - People: The Miracle Behind Every Business00:21:34 - Unleashing Human Potential in Business00:28:52 - The Hidden Power of Small Business Inefficiencies00:29:37 - Why Non-Scalable Processes Are Game-Changing00:33:41 - The Surprising Value of International Teams00:38:17 - Cultural Nuances That Can Transform Hiring Success00:42:40 - The Black Box of Delegation: A Revolutionary Approach00:46:01 - Closing Reflections on People, Purpose, and Progress

    Links and Resources

    Kasim AslamKasim on LinkedInDRIVEN™ MastermindDownload The Book of Threads by Kasim AslamArcytexPareto TalentFind more here

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  • Matt sits down with Mandy McAllister, CEO of GoBundance Women, to find out what it was like to go from small-town roots to leading a thriving community of high-achieving women. Mandy shares her story of resilience, from recovering from a debilitating injury in her teens to navigating the hard lesson of being defrauded in a major investment. Along the way, she explores her approach to turning every challenge into a learning experience, pushing past traditional ideas of success, and embracing the power of experimentation in life and business. They also discuss the role of community, shifting mindsets, and the freedom that comes from letting go of perfectionism.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Unveiling Today's Guest00:00:21 - Meet Mandy McAllister: A Unique Path to Leadership00:00:59 - From Small-Town Girl to Impact Maker00:02:58 - A Defining Injury and the Power of Resilience00:05:08 - Lessons Learned from Fraud and Failure00:07:01 - Shaping Resilience: Mandy’s Mindset Mastery00:16:47 - Strength in Numbers: The Impact of Community00:19:36 - Hard-Earned Advice for Ambitious Women00:21:36 - Life as an Experiment: New Perspectives on Big Decisions00:23:01 - The Complexities of High-Achieving Women00:24:27 - Personal Growth Through Anger Management00:27:30 - Experimenting in Business: A Formula for Success00:32:45 - Key Mindset Shifts for Aspiring Investors00:34:20 - Books That Shape a Leader’s Journey00:41:17 - Music, Joy, and the Pursuit of Optimism

    Links and Resources

    Mandy on LinkedIn GoBundance WomenGoBundance Women on InstagramGoBundance Women on FacebookMandy on YouTubeMandy’s LinkTree

    Book Recommendations:

    Think and Grow Rich for Women by Sharon LechterThe Collective Wisdom of High-Performing Women by Colleen MooreheadIntellectual Foreplay by Eve Eschner Hogan

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  • Matt sits down with Herman Dolce, Jr. who is known as “The Haitian CEO.” Herman is the CEO and founder of The Dolce Group and Bella Sloan Enterprises, and he tells us how he went from social worker to successful entrepreneur. Herman talks about what it really took to build a business while keeping family and faith at the center. He shares his thoughts on accountability, how systems saved him from burnout, and the surprising truth about making a million dollars. From lessons learned through mentorship to teaching financial literacy in prisons, Herman breaks down strategies for achieving financial freedom and using success to serve others.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – Opening Energy00:00:35 – Herman Dolce, Jr.: The Haitian CEO's Introduction00:01:08 – Halloween Hangover Reflections00:01:56 – Capturing Priceless Family Memories00:03:31 – Social Worker to CEO: Herman’s Path00:06:17 – First Major Hurdles in Business00:07:02 – Systems and Mentors: The Game-Changers00:09:46 – Balancing Life: Family and Business00:13:12 – Honoring Heritage and Legacy00:14:14 – Brand, Identity, and Impact of "The Haitian CEO"00:16:19 – Buying Back Time Through Financial Literacy00:19:29 – The Million Dollar Mindset Unpacked00:21:05 – Business Credit Power Plays00:23:08 – Reflecting on Accountability: Herman's Story00:26:04 – Teaching Financial Skills in Unexpected Places00:30:02 – Herman’s Mission to Serve the Community00:32:37 – Lightning Round: Books, Beats, and Bold Ideas

    Links and Resources

    Herman on LinkedInHerman on InstagramExecute! Podcast Bella Sloan LLCBella Sloan Enterprises on YouTube

    Book Recommendation

    10x is Easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Ben Hardy

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  • Matt sits down with Suneera Madhani, a powerhouse entrepreneur who turned a rejected idea into a billion-dollar business. Suneera walks discusses what her experience was like going from corporate life to launching a fintech company that changed the payments industry. She shares how she dealt with investor rejections, tore down barriers as a woman founding a business, and the stakes involved in scaling a business against the odds. You’ll hear an unfiltered conversation about the highs, lows, and the relentless resilience required to succeed. Suneera’s story isn’t just about business; it’s about daring to dream big, staying true to your values, and learning to trust your gut.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 A Long-Awaited Guest Arrives00:01:48 Roots That Shaped a Visionary00:03:03 Spark of a Billion-Dollar Idea00:07:25 The Pitch That Changed Everything00:10:36 Battling Through Unseen Challenges00:14:04 High-Stakes Decisions in the Boardroom00:19:38 Can You Have It All?00:20:40 The Delicate Dance of Work and Family00:24:02 Breaking Barriers for Women Everywhere00:28:35 A Health Crisis Sparks Transformation00:33:31 Building Something New—Again00:38:10 Parting Wisdom from the Trenches

    Links and Resources

    Suneera on LinkedInSuneera on InstagramCEO School CEO School PodcastWorth AIStaxApply to the Millionaire Founders ClubSuneera’s LinkTree

    Book Recommendations

    Die With Zero by Bill PerkinsThink Like a Monk by Jay Shetty

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  • Matt sits down with Dr. Derrick O. Roberts and Dr. Octavia Roberts, a couple with a remarkable journey from street life to a faith-centered ministry. They share how they navigated a past marked by hardship, choices that once led them astray, and a powerful turn towards faith that ultimately transformed their lives. With honesty and humility, they discuss their commitment to marriage, family, and faith, letting us in on the steps they took to break cycles and build a new foundation. Their story is a testament to resilience, the impact of unconditional love, and the belief that transformation is possible for anyone willing to embrace it.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Welcome to a Story of Redemption00:01:19 - Derrick & Octavia’s Early Life and Surprising Start00:03:20 - From Struggles to Transformation00:07:56 - Spiritual Awakening: The Turning Point00:12:36 - Building a Resilient Marriage Together00:18:51 - Secrets to a Youthful and Grateful Life00:21:22 - Embracing Their Past, Sharing Their Journey00:26:00 - Why the Church Welcomes Imperfection00:27:56 - Self-Reflection: Growing from Within00:28:37 - Letting Go of Excuses and Embracing Change00:31:00 - Parenting with Love and Faith00:33:24 - Redemption and the Journey of Transformation00:38:30 - How Faith Shapes Their Testimony00:40:17 - Strengthening Community Connections00:43:07 - Books that Inspire: A Final Reflection

    Links and Resources

    Open Wings MinistriesLove Under the Influence on YouTubeTake Off to Reset by Dr. Octavia RobertsThe Magnificent Marriage Blueprint by Dr. Derrick O. Roberts and Dr. Octavia Roberts What Are You in Hot Water? by Dr. Derrick O. Roberts

    Book Recommendations:

    The Dream Giver by Bruce WilkinsonJesus Is My High End Designer by Pastor Dee and Dr. Derrick O. Roberts

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  • Matt sits down with Justin McClure, a dad, entrepreneur, and social media force who shares his journey from overcoming addiction to building a family brand with millions of followers. Justin talks openly about his path to sobriety, the wake-up calls that shaped him, and how ditching ego and focusing on family changed his life. They discuss the powerful lessons learned from starting over, creating authentic content, and the reality behind building a social media presence with purpose. This conversation will give you incredible insights into finding clarity and success after personal struggle.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Introduction and Jaw-Dropping Guest Bio00:01:32 - Insights into Justin’s Roots and Family Life00:02:15 - Lessons from Growing Up in Rural Georgia00:05:57 - The Turning Point: Overcoming Addiction00:13:40 - Love, Marriage, and Fatherhood Begin00:16:49 - How Sobriety Redefined Fatherhood00:17:17 - The Role of Curiosity in Staying Sober00:18:18 - Breaking Barriers: Love Beyond Prejudice00:19:54 - Going Viral: The Video That Changed Everything00:21:04 - Building a YouTube Empire from Scratch00:24:07 - Why Letting Go of Ego Transformed Everything00:28:01 - Practical Advice for Those Struggling00:29:17 - Final Takeaways and Book Recommendations

    Links and Resources

    Justin on LinkedInThe Mighty McClure Family The Mighty McClures on Instagram The Mighty McClures on YouTube The McClure Twins on YouTubeJustin on Instagram Ami on Instagram Ava and Alexis on InstagramJersey on Instagram The Mighty McClures on Facebook The UltraLiteDaily Sober: 365 Daily Lessons to Break Habits and Addictions by Justin McClure

    Book Recommendation

    Metabolical by Robert LustigThink and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

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  • Entrepreneur and resilience coach, Jordan Mendoza opens up about the extraordinary challenges he’s faced, from a near-fatal car accident at 19 to countless trials throughout his life. Sharing his experiences of hardship and growth, he talks about the impact of resilience, the importance of a strong mindset, and how to take hold of life’s difficulties as fuel for personal and professional success. You’ll get an honest look at what it means to build resilience and turn life’s setbacks into opportunities for growth, providing insights for you about how to confront adversity with courage and purpose.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Setting the Scene with Jordan Mendoza00:01:05 - Six Kids and Entrepreneurial Success00:02:30 - Unlocking the Secrets of Youthful Energy00:04:05 - The Olympic Breakdancing Controversy00:05:41 - A Near-Fatal Accident That Changed Everything00:09:45 - The Role of Community in Recovery00:14:39 - Faith and Resilience Through Adversity00:19:18 - From Early Struggles to a Passion for Coaching00:20:34 - The Art of Sales Enablement and Customer Insight00:21:36 - Imposter Syndrome and Knowing Your Worth00:24:42 - Investing in Yourself: A Success Secret00:26:54 - Inside Jordan’s Unique Coaching Programs00:32:15 - Special Offers for Eternal Optimist Listeners00:35:17 - Lightning Round: Books, Beats, and Big Ideas

    Links and Resources

    Jordan on LinkedInJordan on InstagramJordan on FacebookBlaze Your Own Trail ConsultingBlaze Your Own Trail Podcast

    Book Recommendations

    Start with Why by Simon SinekStregthsFinder 2.0 by Gallup and Tom RathEmotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!