Episódios

  • 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

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  • Today we’re sharing an episode of the Gina Gardiner and Friends podcast where your host of the Eternal Optimist, Matt Drinkhahn, talked about the real impact of optimism in facing the hardest moments of his life thus far. Matt talked about how optimism helped him recover from a life-changing accident and why it’s more than just a positive attitude—it's a practical approach to overcoming challenges. Together, Gina and Matt explore how optimism can shape your mindset, improve your health, and lead to greater success, offering you ways to adopt a more optimistic outlook in your own lives.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – A Warm Welcome to the Gina Gardiner & Friends Podcast00:01:18 – Introducing an Extraordinary Duo00:02:03 – Meet the Eternal Optimist: Matt Drinkhahn00:03:41 – Unveiling the True Power of Optimism00:07:14 – A Life-Altering Accident You Won’t Forget00:08:29 – Choosing Optimism Amidst Chaos00:10:15 – Stories of Resilience: You Are Not Alone00:11:31 – Everyday Moments That Highlight Optimism00:13:36 – The Path to Becoming an Optimist: The Why and How00:14:56 – Step 1: Gratitude – The Power in Small Things00:15:36 – Step 2: Curiosity – Facing Challenges Head-On00:16:22 – Step 3: Self-Compassion – Grace for Yourself00:17:31 – Blending the Elements: Inner Peace Unlocked00:17:59 – Gratitude in Action: Simple, Practical Tips00:20:06 – The Curious Mind: Awakening Right Brain Thinking00:21:50 – The Game-Changing ‘How Might I’ Question00:23:58 – The Power of Consistency: A Personal Insight00:25:55 – Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    Links and Resources

    Gina Gardiner & Friends with Matt Drinkhahn

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  • Eric Stranghoener shares his incredible journey of faith, family, and a life-changing cancer diagnosis. Eric talks about how his faith helped him find strength during one of the toughest times of his life and how patience became a powerful lesson. He also looks back on the joy found in everyday moments, even through hardship, and what it means to lead with optimism in the face of adversity. Tune in to hear how Eric’s experiences shaped his outlook and deepened his connection to the people and values that matter most.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - The Inspiring Start: Why This Episode Will Leave You Changed00:01:07 - Meet Eric Stranghoener: The Man Behind an Extraordinary Journey00:03:27 - A Surprising Origin Story: The Roots of Eric’s Unshakeable Faith00:04:29 - Faith, Family, and a Remarkable Foundation: Discover Eric’s Pillars00:09:02 - A Life-Altering Diagnosis: How One Moment Shifted Everything00:15:54 - Lessons from the Storm: Uncovering Strength in Adversity00:20:45 - The Power of Patience: A Gift Found in Unexpected Places00:28:12 - A Father's Joy: The Moment That Made All the Struggles Worth It00:32:36 - Joy in the Journey: How to Find Happiness Amid Life’s Challenges00:36:18 - Faith on the Field: Coaching Lessons That Transcend Sports00:40:23 - Closing Reflections: Gratitude, Purpose, and What Comes Next

    Links and Resources

    Eric on LinkedInRubinBrown

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  • Police Chief Chris Watts shares his journey from working in emergency services to becoming the Chief of Police in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He talks about the difficulties of modern law enforcement, the importance of community relationships, and what he’s experienced that has shaped his leadership style. Along the way, he lets us in on the tough calls officers face daily and how law enforcement strives to serve the public in meaningful ways. It's a rare look at the realities of policing and what it takes to lead a team through difficult situations.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – Opening Remarks: A Conversation with Chief Chris Watts00:01:44 – Chief Watts' Journey: From Charleston to Rock Hill00:03:59 – Unexpected Career Path: How Chris Watts Joined Law Enforcement00:06:30 – Life and Lessons from the Rock Hill Rescue Squad00:09:25 – Breaking the Media Stereotype: Public Perception of Police00:14:06 – Law Enforcement's Role in Addressing Homelessness00:17:03 – The Emotional Toll: Challenges Officers Face on the Job00:24:35 – Building Trust: Community Relations and Leadership Insights00:28:24 – Personal Growth: Leadership Tips and Recommendations from Chief Watts00:34:24 – Final Reflections: Optimism and Moving Forward Together

    Links and Resources

    Chris Watts - Biography/Staff Directory Civilian Ride-Along Program The Worthy Boys and Girls Camp Apply at Rock Hill PDJob OpportunitiesFAQs

    Book Recommendations

    Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips

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  • Asmâa Methqal shares her experience of navigating adversity, finding balance, and redefining success by embracing feminine energy. She goes into the challenges of leading from a masculine mindset and how pausing her business led to deeper self-discovery and a more fulfilling way of working and living. Asmâa explains the power of intuition, creativity, and leadership through a balanced approach that combines both masculine and feminine energies, offering her insights to anyone looking to lead with authenticity and purpose.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Diving In: A Warm Welcome and Introducing Asmâa Methqal00:00:56 - Raw Authenticity: A Tribute to Scott Groves00:01:58 - A Creative Soul: Asmâa’s Painting and Unique Story00:03:32 - Crossing Oceans: Asmâa’s Bold Move from Morocco to Canada00:06:04 - Success Meets Crisis: The Turning Point in Asmâa’s Journey00:10:35 - Embracing Feminine Power: A New Path Unfolds00:16:46 - Fire and Flow: Leadership through Balance and Intuition00:22:55 - Breaking Down the Duality: Masculine and Feminine Energies Explained00:32:32 - Meditation as a Gateway to Feminine Energy00:33:11 - Movement Meditation: Unlocking Intuition through Flow00:36:08 - Harmony Within: The Dance Between Masculine and Feminine Energies00:40:14 - The Quiet Strength of Feminine Leadership00:42:02 - Unraveling the Self: Asmâa’s Journey of Discovery00:52:07 - Unlocking Potential: Must-Read Resources for Personal Growth00:58:44 - Final Reflections: The Power of Inner Alignment

    Links and Resources:

    The Fire and Flow EnergiesAsmâa on LinkedInAsmâa Methqal Skool Maestra | Business Marketing

    Book Recommendations

    P***y by Regena ThomashauerThe Way of the Superior Man by David DeidaPositive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine

    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!

  • Adrienne Green, Real Estate Investor and Systems Expert, talks about how she went from being a high school math teacher to becoming a successful real estate investor and business owner. She goes into how she built a life of freedom for her family through real estate, leveraging virtual assistants, and creating systems that allow her to run a business while traveling full-time. Adrienne gives insights into how delegating tasks and using the right tools can help entrepreneurs scale their business without sacrificing time with family. Tune in to learn how to build a business that works for you, not the other way around!

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Welcome to Eternal Optimist: Kicking Off with Inspiration00:00:35 - Meet Adrienne Green: From Teaching to Thriving Entrepreneur00:01:34 - The Pivot: How Adrienne Shifted from Math Teacher to Real Estate Pro00:02:15 - Real Estate, Family, and Finding Freedom00:03:00 - Virtual Staffing and Coaching: Unlocking Success00:03:47 - Homeschooling Around the Globe: Raising Kids on the Move00:06:45 - Overcoming Challenges: The Key to Building a Strong Team00:14:06 - From Classroom to Cash Flow: Adrienne’s Real Estate Evolution00:17:55 - Start Small, Think Big: Adrienne’s First Real Estate Steps00:20:26 - Scaling Up: The Magic of Long-Distance Real Estate Investing00:22:30 - Proven Philosophies for Real Estate Success00:24:24 - Delegate to Elevate: Free Yourself for What Matters00:25:32 - Crafting a Vision: How Adrienne Plans Her Life and Business00:26:20 - Turning Big Goals into Actionable Daily Steps00:27:43 - Time Blocking: The Productivity Hack You Can’t Ignore00:28:51 - Shifting Your Mindset: Why Accountability is Everything00:30:42 - Breaking Through Self-Limiting Beliefs: Step into Your Potential00:32:48 - Systems = Freedom: How Adrienne Leverages Processes for Success00:38:03 - Virtual Assistants: The Secret Weapon to Scale Your Business00:39:28 - Meet Workergenix: Adrienne’s Solution to Staffing Made Simple00:41:28 - How to Connect with Adrienne Green and Level Up00:43:24 - Lightning Round: Must-Read Books and Favorite Music00:46:30 - Final Thoughts: Embracing Eternal Optimism in Life and Business

    Links and Resources

    Adrienne GreenAdrienne on LinkedIn Adrienne on InstagramWorkergenix Real Estate Investing Survey

    Book Recommendation

    Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill

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  • Dr. Marquel Russell shares how he went from the streets to building a billion-dollar business. He opens up about personal loss, the impact of therapy, and how these experiences shaped his path as an entrepreneur. Marquel talks about the turning point that led him to network marketing, the lessons he learned scaling businesses, and why mastering your inner game is key to lasting success. He also discusses balancing family and business, showing that real growth goes beyond just making money.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - The Journey Begins – Kicking off the Eternal Optimist Podcast 00:00:30 - Meet Dr. Marquel Russell – The CEO behind Strategic Scale Institute.00:00:47 - Resilience Personified – Personal challenges and overcoming them.00:02:24 - Coping with Loss – How tragedies have shaped his entrepreneurial journey.00:05:09 - Therapy and Healing – The role of emotional processing and therapy.00:06:00 - Family Reflections – Memories of family and the impact of loss.00:11:43 - From the Streets to the Boardroom – From street life to entrepreneurship.00:15:17 - The Power of Network Marketing – The turning point that redefined his path to success.00:17:59 - Building an Empire – Scaling his business beyond the hustle.00:21:39 - Scaling Beyond Sales – Growth strategies that go beyond just revenue.00:22:23 - The Predictable Scale Flywheel – A game-changing business framework.00:24:24 - Mastering the Inner Game – Optimizing yourself is key to scaling a business.00:26:16 - Daily Routine Hacks – Tips on fine-tuning your daily habits for success.00:30:35 - End of Day Reflection – Reviewing and planning for personal and business growth.00:34:49 - Balancing Business and Family – Integrating family life with entrepreneurial goals.00:36:30 - Where to Connect – Resources and ways to connect with Marquel Russell for more strategies.00:38:40 - Lightning Round – A rapid-fire session on books, music, and eternal optimism.

    Links and Resources

    Dr. Marquel RussellMarquel on LinkedInMarquel on InstagramStrategic Scale AcceleratorPredictable Scale Flywheel

    Book Recommendations

    The Untethered Soul by Michael SingerThe Surrender Experiment by Michael SingerLetting Go by David HawkinsThe War of Art by Steven Pressfield

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  • Geoff Sober shares his journey of overcoming fear and self-sabotage, rooted in his family’s patterns of missed opportunities. He opens up about how fear of failure held him back for years, both personally and professionally, and the pivotal moments that helped him break free. Geoff discusses the importance of acceptance, how working with mentors changed his life, and why emotional resilience is key to navigating life’s toughest challenges. This conversation really digs deep into how we can all stop holding ourselves back and start living more freely, both in business and life.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - Fear of Failure: The Hidden Barrier We All Face00:00:43 - Meet Geoff Sober: From Childhood Dreams to Life’s Greatest Challenges00:02:10 - Discovering the Root of Fear: A Father’s Legacy and Personal Struggles00:08:36 - Self-Sabotage Revealed: The Missed Opportunities That Shaped a Life00:16:24 - Freedom Through Acceptance: The Moment That Changed Everything00:23:56 - From the Classroom to Entrepreneurship: Building Success on New Foundations00:27:15 - Meditation, Tai Chi, and Grounding: Practices for Staying Centered00:28:10 - Turning Criticism into Growth: Lessons from Facing Naysayers00:30:20 - Coaches and Mentors: How Outside Guidance Can Unlock Inner Potential00:32:37 - Breaking Through Darkness: Finding Strength in Life’s Hardest Moments00:33:51 - Dan Millman’s Influence and the Power of Martial Arts00:36:36 - Developing Emotional Resilience: Tools for Staying Calm Amid Chaos00:42:21 - Writing as Healing: Sharing Stories to Inspire Transformation00:49:59 - Final Thoughts: Living Life Free from the Fear of Failure

    Links and Resources

    Geoff SoberGeoff on LinkedInGeoff on YouTubeFrom Fear of Failure to Flying High by Geoff Sober

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  • Erin Bradley opens up about how she went from financial rock bottom to building a life of true freedom. She talks about the hard lessons she learned while growing a successful business, from maxed-out credit cards to hiring a team and doubling her income. Erin also goes into why chasing success without a plan can lead to burnout and how she discovered a better way by shifting her focus to contribution over hustle. If you’ve ever felt stuck or misaligned in your career, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how you approach both work and life!

    Chapters

    00:00 – Kicking off with Eternal Optimism: Embracing adversity with Erin Bradley00:25 – Meet Erin Bradley: The power of stories and enthusiasm01:03 – What Eternal Optimism Really Means: From childhood joy to intentionality02:04 – Choosing Positivity: How to find what you’re looking for every day03:50 – Overcoming Life’s Challenges: Turning obstacles into growth05:50 – The Power of Reflection: How your past dreams shape today’s reality08:10 – Embracing the Unknown: The art of surrendering to life’s unpredictability13:32 – The Journey to Success: From unscripted opportunities to aligning with your path16:51 – From Financial Struggles to Breakthroughs: Riding through financial rock bottom21:23 – The Go-Giver Philosophy: Why giving leads to unexpected abundance23:58 – A Meeting at the Ballpark: The chance encounter that changed everything24:35 – Love in Philadelphia and a Leap to Colorado: Adventures and new beginnings in the Rockies25:18 – Career Transitions: From mortgage lending to finding true purpose27:05 – Scaling a Business: Challenges, triumphs, and the freedom of delegation29:27 – The Bold Shift: Pursuing freedom by unbecoming who you thought you had to be37:38 – The Joy of Surrender: Why letting go brings more opportunities than ever imagined45:23 – Music as Life’s Motto: How bluegrass, dancing, and joy keep Erin’s soul alive

    Links and Resources

    Erin on LinkedInPursuing FreedomPursuing Freedom Facebook GroupZyia Active

    Book Recommendations

    Find and Use Your Inner Power by Emmett Fox10x is Easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin HardyThe Surrender Experiment by Michael SingerThe Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

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  • Geoff Woods, Founder of AI Leadership, explains how AI is shaking up leadership and why it’s crucial for business leaders to embrace it now. He shares his own journey into AI and breaks down how leaders can use it as a powerful tool for strategic decision-making, not just a productivity hack. Geoff explains how AI can help leaders focus on the bigger picture and make smarter, faster decisions that drive growth. If you're curious about the future of leadership and how to stay ahead, Geoff will give you the information you need.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 – Geoff Woods: The Man Who Revolutionized Business Strategy00:01:09 – From College to C-Suite: Geoff’s Unexpected Path to AI Leadership00:03:52 – The Competitive Edge: How AI Supercharges Business Strategy00:07:37 – AI: Your New Strategic Thought Partner00:09:40 – Real Stories, Real AI: Powerful Applications Changing Businesses00:13:36 – Mastering the Art of Communication: Leading with AI00:18:50 – AI Empowerment Curve: From Fear to Mastery00:19:05 – The Light Bulb Moment: Seeing AI in Action00:21:52 – Becoming AI-Driven: Transforming Leadership with Geoff’s Proven Approach00:22:56 – AI Workshops & Consulting: Unlocking Growth in Record Time00:24:40 – The Future of Leadership: How AI Will Shape Tomorrow’s Leaders00:27:02 – Breaking Barriers: Overcoming Fear and Embracing AI00:28:41 – Real Use Cases: AI Solutions for Real-World Challenges00:34:58 – The Risks of AI: Navigating Bias, Privacy, and Security00:37:53 – Wrapping Up: Geoff Woods on the Future of Leadership

    Links and Resources:

    Geoff on LinkedIn AI Leadership The AI-Driven Leader by Geoff Woods

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  • Dave Homyak shares how an unfair job evaluation pushed him to leave his engineering career and dive into real estate. He talks about facing his fears, overcoming anxiety, and how he replaced his income in less than a year by investing in rental properties. Dave explains the importance of taking calculated risks, surrounding yourself with the right people, and challenging yourself to do what seems impossible. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to starting a virtual assistant placement business, Dave's story is about pushing beyond comfort zones to find success and freedom.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 Welcome to the Eternal Optimist00:00:43 Meeting Dave Homyak: From Engineer to Entrepreneur00:01:26 Dave’s Adventure Mindset: From Spartan Races to Kilimanjaro00:02:12 Overcoming Anxiety and Tackling Life's Biggest Challenges00:07:03 The Day Dave's Real Estate Journey Took Off00:09:24 Conquering Anxiety in a World of Change00:10:50 The Big Leap: Transitioning to Full-Time Real Estate00:11:10 Real Estate 101: Breaking Down Cash on Cash Return00:13:26 Navigating the Real Estate Market: Lessons Learned00:17:57 Shifting Strategy: From Cash Flow to Property Appreciation00:18:17 Entitling Land and Partnering for Long-Term Success00:19:57 The Power of a Strong Network and Support System00:21:49 New Ventures, Growth, and Personal Development00:23:01 Unexpected Success: Building a Virtual Assistant Empire00:31:35 Lightning Round: Books, Music, and Dave’s Take on Optimism

    Links and Resources

    Dave Homyak Dave on LinkedInThe Rockstar VAs

    Book Recommendations

    Die With Zero by Bill PerkinsDo the Impossible by Jason Drees

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  • In this episode, Clifford Blanquicet Jr. shares his journey from a difficult childhood marked by abuse and neglect to becoming a successful business owner and dedicated family man. He opens up about how faith, therapy, and determination helped him overcome adversity and build a life centered around resilience and purpose. Clifford also talks about his partnership with his wife in both life and business, their ventures in real estate, and how they've gone through challenges together. It's a powerful conversation about turning hardship into strength and finding success through faith and family.

    Chapters

    00:00 – Welcome to the Eternal Optimist Podcast00:29 – Meet Clifford Blanquicet Jr.01:47 – Clifford's Positive Outlook on Life: Being Grateful Everyday02:40 – The Coffee Truck Dream: Turning Passion into a Family Business03:20 – A Quick Snapshot of Clifford's Journey: Family, Business, and Faith05:43 – Surviving a Tough Childhood09:49 – Finding Faith and Family Support14:55 – How Therapy and Golf Changed His Life17:42 – Transition to Adulthood: Career and Faith19:46 – Meeting Anna: The Moment That Changed Everything20:34 – A Whirlwind Romance: When You Know, You Just Know21:47 – Facing Early Marital Challenges: Overcoming Life-Threatening Moments23:58 – Bonded Through Trauma25:55 – First Date or Proposal? 29:16 – Building a Family and Businesses: Entrepreneurship with 5 Kids31:58 – Professional Ventures: Real Estate and Tech36:06 – Teaching Kids the Entrepreneurial Spirit37:29 – Final Thoughts and Reflections

    Links and Resources

    Clifford on LinkedInBlanq Real Estate 

    Book Recommendations

    Rocket Fuel by Gino WickmanThe Millionaire Booklet by Grant Cardone

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  • Chris Dorris explains how to harness mental toughness to completely shift your state of mind, regardless of external circumstances. He shares practical techniques to move past anxiety, redefine failure, and build a mindset that thrives on challenges rather than avoiding them. Through simple but powerful daily practices, Chris focuses on the importance of taking control of your inner world and how contagious your vibes are. He brings a lot of strategies to the table and insights that will leave you questioning your current habits and eager to elevate your mindset.

    Chapters:

    00:00:00 - Welcome to the Eternal Optimist Podcast00:00:19 - Meet Chris Dorris: Why Every Day Can Be “The Best Damn Day of My Life”00:01:00 - Crafting Your Own Emotional State: The Morning Ritual00:02:59 - The Science of Vibes: How Your Energy Influences the World00:05:04 - Mastering Emotional States: A Practical Exercise for Every Day00:09:55 - Leaning Into Emotional Pain: Transforming the Uncomfortable00:13:44 - Living in a State of Perpetual Self-Inquiry00:23:35 - The Power of Positive Recollection: Shifting Focus to Success00:26:40 - Enthusiasm and Genius: The Key to Unlocking Creative Flow00:27:08 - Unlearning What Holds You Back: Rewriting Mental Conditioning00:27:57 - No Such Thing as Failure: Redefining Results and Growth00:28:54 - Turning Complaints into Gratitude: A Daily Practice00:31:27 - The Path to Mental Toughness: Why Practice Matters00:32:18 - Meditation and Self-Inquiry: Tools for Mastery00:34:10 - Applying Mental Training in Real Life00:37:25 - The Secret of Daily Practice: Consistency is Key00:38:07 - Chris’s Personal Journey of Growth and Mental Toughness00:40:57 - Where to Connect with Chris Dorris00:45:44 - Lightning Round and Final Reflections

    Links and Resources:

    Chris DorrisChris on LinkedInFollow Chris on FacebookTough Talks PodcastChris on YouTube

    Book Recommendations:

    The Mustard Seed by OshoThe Go-Giver by Bob Burg Loving What Is by Byron KatieThe Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

    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!