Andrew Ackerman has lived every side of the startup world. Founder, investor, accelerator director, teacher, and now author, he brings a rare full circle perspective on what it really takes to build and fund successful companies. He has founded two startups, invested in more than seventy early stage ventures, and led accelerators that gave him a front row seat to the moves and mistakes that make or break new founders.Andrew translates the chaos of entrepreneurship into lessons people can actually use. His new business novel, The Entrepreneur’s Odyssey, blends real world startup experience with the inspiration of a story driven journey. It has been described as The Lean Startup meets The Alchemist, a guide wrapped in narrative that both teaches and inspires.He brings candor, humor, and practicality to every conversation. Andrew shares why many founders misunderstand investors, why venture capital is not the fast lane people think it is, and why he believes VCs can be hypocrites when giving advice they did not follow themselves. He also dives into the discipline behind writing his book, the patterns he has seen across hundreds of founders, and the simple principles that separate progress from struggle.Listeners will walk away with real startup truths, investor insights, and clear takeaways they can apply to their own ventures and creative work.

Sally Gimon did not set out to become an expert on wealth protection, but life pushed her into action. When her mother became sick in 2018, Sally was fifty three, working as an insurance agent, and suddenly aware that she needed to create financial security fast. That moment sent her into real estate and into a deep study of how the wealthy legally protect and grow their money.In July 2020 she bought a bank owned property for twenty thousand dollars that would later go to auction for fifty thousand. The deal opened her eyes to capital gains and the tax burdens that drain investors. Determined to understand how the rich pay so little in taxes, she began studying Business and Beneficial Spendthrift Trusts, a strategy few people know yet many wealthy families quietly use.Today she teaches these principles through her real estate group and Win Win Women TV, helping people understand how to protect assets, reduce taxes legally, and build real long term security. Sally brings a rare blend of personal experience, insurance knowledge, and financial education that empowers everyday people to take control of their wealth.Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of trusts, tax strategy, financial protection, and the steps needed to create stability even in uncertain times.

Randy Gage is known around the world as The Entrepreneur Whisperer, a Speaker Hall of Famer, bestselling author, and one of the boldest voices on money, mindset, and prosperity. His journey began in a jail cell as a teenager, a moment that forced him to confront who he was and who he wanted to become. Today, Randy has spent more than thirty years helping people rewrite the mental programming that keeps them stuck, broke, or afraid to take risks.He has written fifteen books translated into more than twenty five languages, including Risky Is the New Safe, Mad Genius, and Radical Rebirth. His work has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, Fox News, and SUCCESS Magazine, and he has shared the stage with some of the most influential business thinkers of our time.Randy does not speak in theories. He delivers real talk about the beliefs that sabotage success, the money myths that keep people in lack, and the mindset shifts required to thrive in a world filled with disruption and change. He explains why most people are programmed to fail, how to break that code, and how to build a prosperous life rooted in awareness, responsibility, and bold thinking.Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of prosperity, practical tools for reinvention, and the mindset required to rise higher in an economy that rewards creativity and courage.

Wes Towers did not learn business by sitting in classrooms. He learned it by building an agency from the ground up, breaking things, fixing them, and discovering what actually works in the real world. For more than twenty years, he has run Uplift 360, a company dedicated to helping construction and trade businesses turn websites and SEO into steady, qualified work that fills calendars and grows revenue.Wes has helped hundreds of builders and trades become the obvious choice in their market through clear strategy, simple execution, and a relentless focus on trust and authenticity. His philosophy is the opposite of theory, with proven field-tested tactics that survive tough economies and real competition.He explains why so many brands still get left behind online, why most websites fail to convert, and how smaller companies can outperform bigger players by prioritising trust, clarity, and human connection. Wes also shares how trades can stand out in an AI-driven world without losing their voice or sounding generic.Listeners will walk away with practical moves they can apply immediately. How to get found online. How to create content that builds authority. How to fix costly website mistakes fast. How to make sure buyers choose you first. This episode is built for anyone who wants real results, straight answers, and marketing that works when the boots are muddy and the phones need to ring.

Dr Danny Brassell is known worldwide as Americas Leading Reading Ambassador and one of the most entertaining and effective communication experts in the industry. A former inner city teacher turned global speaker, Danny has delivered more than three thousand five hundred keynotes and has written twenty one books that help leaders understand the true power of reading, storytelling and motivation.Called the Jim Carrey with a PhD for his energy and humor, Danny has mastered the art of taking personal experience and turning it into business influence. He is the co founder of WellCrafted Story, where he teaches entrepreneurs how to transform their stories into presentations that attract clients, build trust and convert at the highest level.Danny shares how reading shapes leadership, how stories create emotional connection, and why communication is the single most valuable skill for any entrepreneur who wants to grow with purpose. His mission is simple. Help leaders craft messages that inspire action, drive growth and create lasting impact.Listeners will walk away with practical tools for storytelling, communication, presentation skills and business development, along with a deeper understanding of how reading and connection can elevate every part of life and leadership.

Roy Coughlan is known around the world as The PodFather, a serial entrepreneur who has founded twenty companies across five countries and built a powerful reputation in the podcasting space. With six successful podcasts that all rank in the top five percent and four in the top zero point five percent worldwide, Roy understands exactly how to create shows that inspire, educate, and build loyal audiences.With more than one thousand seven hundred podcast episodes behind him, Roy has mastered the art of communication, consistency, and long term brand building. He also co founded braingym fitness, a platform dedicated to improving cognitive performance, along with VA World, a company that connects business owners with elite virtual assistants to help them scale with ease.Roy’s story highlights global entrepreneurship, mental discipline, and the importance of voice and message in business. His path proves that when you commit to excellence every single day, you can build a legacy that reaches far beyond borders.Listeners will walk away with real lessons on discipline, clarity, and communication, along with the mindset and tools needed to build a powerful brand and scale their business with purpose and confidence.

Sheldon joins us from the outskirts of Albany, Oregon—a historic logging and rail town—and shares how his early life shaped his values, resilience, and sense of purpose. Through simple beginnings and pivotal experiences, he reflects on the lessons that guided his growth and the mindset that carried him forward. A grounded, honest look at how our origins influence who we become.

"You're one Breath Away From God's Healing" - His BreathAli Levine—Holy Spirit Breath Coach, Christian author, and Kingdom entrepreneur—to explore how her surrender to God turned a life of Hollywood chaos into a calling for Christ. Once a celebrated celebrity stylist featured on Bravo, USA Today, and countless red carpets, Ali reached the height of worldly success—only to find herself battling depression, anxiety, and spiritual emptiness.It was in a moment of complete surrender that Ali heard the voice of God—and everything changed. Now, she leads a growing faith-based movement through her From Chaos to Christ summit and community, helping women and mothers restore their minds, bodies, and spirits through biblical breathwork, scripture, and declarations rooted in peace.Ali opens up about her deliverance from New Age practices, her bold stand for faith in the media and wellness industries, and her passion for helping others trade striving for surrender.Join her Community (FREE) https://alilevine.myflodesk.com/giftBreathe with God Bundle:https://divinereset.alilevine.com/breathe-with-god-bundleBook a Free connection call: Calendly.com/Alilevinedesign

Bestselling and award-winning author Scott Wells doesn’t just write thrillers—he peels back the layers of reality itself.In this hauntingly introspective episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with acclaimed thriller and horror author Scott Wells, whose emotionally gripping, suspense-driven stories blur the line between truth and illusion. From his breakout hit Marked by the Ouija to his upcoming adaptation of Phantom Ranch, Scott’s work explores deception, courage, and the hidden forces that shape human behavior.A three-time award-winning writer, Scott reveals how his fascination with fear, authenticity, and perspective fuels his storytelling. Beyond the page, he connects these same themes to real life—through his outdoor YouTube channel Explore Life Outside, where he champions mental clarity, resilience, and nature’s ability to both heal and haunt.Together, Larry and Scott uncover the truth behind what drives creativity, how fear can lead to transformation, and why the most terrifying stories are often the ones rooted in reality.This episode reminds us that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the willingness to face it and write your own ending.

Actor Bourke Floyd is a seasoned performer whose career has been defined by passion, perseverance, and purpose.From early print modeling campaigns with Abercrombie & Fitch, Valentino, and Calvin Klein to screen roles in Minority Report and Tears of the Sun, Bourke has carved out a path built on authenticity and adaptability. He also made his mark on Broadway in RENT, showcasing his versatility and love for live performance.After stepping away from Hollywood following personal loss, Bourke returned with renewed focus—producing and starring in independent films, mentoring new talent, and using his platform to inspire others to create with heart.This episode dives deep into the craft of storytelling, the courage to evolve, and what it truly means to find purpose in your art and your life.Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or someone ready to redefine success, Bourke’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to tell a new story.

Every story shapes a reality—and Andrew Reed has built his life around helping people tell theirs with truth, heart, and purpose.In this inspiring episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with Andrew Reed, founder of RED5 Productions, to explore how storytelling can transform not only brands but entire lives. As a producer, creative director, and former apprentice to global leaders in NLP and personal development, Andrew has produced more than 200 live events and campaigns for companies like Garmin International, and for thought leaders and entrepreneurs around the world.Andrew’s creative philosophy is simple but profound: strategy with soul. Every project he leads is designed to move people—to spark emotion, inspire action, and deepen connection.Beyond the lens, Andrew is a devoted father and visionary committed to building what he calls a “benevolent empire”—a life rooted in creativity, legacy, and helping others remember who they truly are.If you believe in the power of stories to change lives, this episode will remind you why yours matters.

 What does it take to become a two-time IPF World Champion powerlifter and a leading authority on business growth and tax strategy? For Delaney Wallace, discipline and precision are the common thread.Known as “The World’s Strongest Accountant,” Delaney has built a dual legacy—breaking records on the platform while guiding entrepreneurs to scale smarter, structure deals, and save millions in taxes. As the force behind Bedrock Infrastructure Solutions and co-owner of Mount Vernon Barbell, Delaney applies the same relentless focus that drives his athletic success to business, finance, and leadership.A TEDx speaker and international presenter, Delaney has advised on multimillion-dollar acquisitions, crafted creative financing strategies, and helped business owners position themselves for long-term success.In this episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix dives into Delaney’s story—how risk, resilience, and the right strategy can turn both athletes and entrepreneurs into champions.

Adopted, misdiagnosed, and navigating life with dyslexia—Dylan Smith could have let his early challenges define him. Instead, he chose to transform them into fuel for impact.In this heartfelt episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with keynote speaker, educator, and entrepreneur Dylan Smith to unpack the power of persistence, perspective, and service. Dylan shares how his setbacks became the foundation for leadership, why humility is a strength in building authentic connections, and the difference between what people do and who they really are.From teaching kids across the country to writing his first book, Dylan’s journey is proof that obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re opportunities to discover purpose and inspire others along the way.

From boutique fitness to lifestyle publishing, Laura Sabia has built her career on one mission: empowering others and creating spaces where people can thrive.In this inspiring episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with Laura Sabia—entrepreneur, publisher, and community leader—to talk about how she turned her passion for wellness and connection into a thriving portfolio of businesses. Laura shares how she went from launching her first Pure Barre studio in an unfamiliar town to now owning three successful locations, while also publishing Greenwich Lifestyle and Darien + New Canaan Lifestyle magazines.As a female entrepreneur who knows the challenges of building a business alone, Laura opens up about the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and creating platforms that uplift women in business. Her story is one of grit, vision, and community impact—showing that success isn’t just about building businesses, but about building people.If you’ve ever felt the pull to create, contribute, and lead with heart, this episode will leave you inspired to take that next step.  

From construction sites to C-suites, Dan Sachkowsky has spent 25+ years building what lasts—companies, systems, and leaders. In this episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix talks with the founder of three multi-million-dollar companies and host of The Big D Podcast and The Intrepidus Podcast about how entrepreneurs can break bottlenecks, systemize for scale, and lead with faith and family at the center. Dan shares the exact frameworks he uses to train corporate sales teams, accelerate growth, and help business owners stop firefighting and start compounding. If you’re ready to replace chaos with clarity, this conversation is your playbook.

Sales leader, entrepreneur, and brand powerhouse Drewbie Wilson—a man who went from weighing over 300 pounds and working tech support to building a multi-million dollar consulting brand fueled by service, consistency, and bold execution.Now the founder of CallTheDamnLeads.com, Drewbie is known for his no-excuses mindset, trademark energy, and relentless dedication to helping entrepreneurs crush the day before it crushes them. Whether he's creating viral memes that drive engagement or teaching bulletproof follow-up systems that convert cold leads into loyal clients, Drewbie’s built a community and movement that’s reshaping modern sales.In this episode, he shares:How he lost 100+ pounds and took back control of his lifeThe philosophy behind “Call The Damn Leads” and why it’s more than just a catchphraseHow memes, mindset, and massive action can scale a business to 7 figuresWhy confidence + empathy are the ultimate business superpowersFrom the sales floor to the stage, Drewbie leads by example—proving that discipline, authenticity, and follow-through are the true keys to long-term success.

What do martial arts, Tesla coils, and poetic fire dancing have in common? For Michael Ravenwood, they’re all expressions of one mission: to ignite human potential through movement, mindfulness, and meaning.In this electrifying episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with Michael Ravenwood—international cirque performer, empowerment coach, and founder of SkyFire Arts—to explore how a life of discipline, creativity, and intentional flow can lead to profound transformation.Michael’s journey spans over 35 years of martial arts, meditation, psychology, and mind-body science. With a background in quantum physics and global wisdom traditions, he weaves ancient practices with modern performance—transforming stages into sacred space. From fire-walking instructor to high-voltage Tesla coil performer, from silent Vipassana retreats to Google HQ talks, Michael has become a beacon of inspiration, showing others how to embody power with presence.In this episode, you’ll discover how flow arts, storytelling, and embodied wisdom can help unlock confidence, healing, and a deeper connection to life itself.If you’ve ever felt the call to step into your purpose with passion and precision—this episode will light the spark.

From living in poverty to leading a billion-dollar sales empire, Christy Dreiling is living proof that your past doesn’t define your future—it fuels it.In this uplifting episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with Christy Dreiling—relationship expert, bestselling author, business strategist, and founder of Enlighten Up, a transformational coaching brand helping people create lives they love.Christy shares her remarkable story of resilience—overcoming homelessness and abuse to rise as one of the top 0.01% earners in the network marketing world. Now a global consultant, podcast host, and humanitarian, she uses her voice, vision, and spiritual training to help others break cycles, build soulful relationships, and step into their highest potential.Whether it’s life activation, brand coaching, or guiding others to attract deep, lasting love, Christy integrates ancient universal principles with modern success strategies. Her work spans business, spirituality, and emotional intelligence—and she’s just getting started.Tune in to hear how Christy transformed pain into purpose, launched global mission projects, co-produced an award-winning documentary, and became a beacon of light for thousands seeking real connection, soul-aligned business, and conscious love.

Ben Reinberg—commercial real estate investor, fund manager, and thought leader with over three decades of experience. Ben is the founder and CEO of Alliance Consolidated Group of Companies, where he has built a $500M+ portfolio specializing in recession-resistant assets such as medical office buildings, retail, and industrial properties.With a proven 28% historical IRR and billions in closed transactions, Ben shares the exact strategies that built his empire—and how he's helping others do the same through his Hard Asset Empire Blueprint™, outlined in his upcoming book, Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times.In this conversation, Ben unpacks how he's integrating blockchain technology, tokenized real estate, and Bitcoin into traditional wealth-building strategies, helping investors navigate volatility with a future-forward approach.As the host of the I Own It podcast, Ben also shares what ownership really means—of your mindset, your business, your time, and your legacy.Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or just ready to level up, this episode is your invitation to think bigger, act smarter, and own every part of your journey.

In this inspiring episode of Born or Made, Larry Dix sits down with visionary entrepreneur, creative powerhouse, and philanthropist Dame Sydney Thackray. Known for her opulent interior and set design work, Sydney is now launching one of LA’s most exclusive new ventures: a private social club and wellness spa where charity investors, innovators, and thought leaders can connect, relax, and ignite purpose-driven change.But Sydney’s journey began with grit, grace, and a relentless dedication to giving back. A former Olympic horse vaulter, Sydney transitioned from elite athletics to full-time philanthropy, dedicating her life to causes that uplift women, children, and underserved communities around the globe. Her charitable work took her across continents—and in a twist that feels pulled from the pages of history, led to a fateful meeting with a descendant of Catherine de Medici.In June of this year, at just 19 years old, Sydney was officially knighted in Rome—making her the youngest American Dame in history. Unlike many who receive such honors through royal lineage or status, Sydney earned hers through service, action, and impact.This episode is a masterclass in legacy building, where resilience meets elegance, and where one woman’s commitment to purpose redefines what it means to live a noble life—without needing to be born into one.