On paper, Alan Lazaros had won the game. He was a Computer Engineer with an MBA, earning great money in corporate America. But internally, he was bankrupt—filled with regret, pain, and abandonment issues.
Then, at age 26, a near-fatal car accident changed everything.
In this episode, Alan—now the CEO of Next Level University and host of a Global Top 100 Podcast—shares the haunting symmetry of his life. He lost his father to a car crash at age 2, and facing the same fate at 26 became his ultimate wake-up call. He realized he was "winning the wrong game" dictated by society, achieving external success while feeling completely empty inside.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of engineering your way out of an existential crisis. Alan brings his "heart-driven but no BS" approach to explain how he pivoted from a corporate trajectory to building a global organization with over 2,200 episodes and 1 million listens.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* The Haunting Symmetry: Losing his father at 2 and facing death at 26.
* The "Regret of the Dying": Why living for others is the ultimate failure.
* Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic: Why you can be rich but unfulfilled (and how to fix it).
* Getting Off Autopilot: How to stop drifting and start designing your life.
* The RAS & Dominant Focus: Why your brain filters out your opportunities.
* Peak Performance: Lessons from 11,500+ hours of coaching and training.
* The "Infinite Game": Why reaching your full potential is a moving target.
* Alan's Definition of Success: Health, Wealth, and Love.
This episode is for high-achievers who feel hollow, anyone navigating a "quarter-life crisis," or listeners looking for a systematic, engineering-based approach to personal development.
Connect With Alan Lazaros:
* Website & Masterclass: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/
* Podcast: Next Level University (Top 100 Global Podcast)
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alazaros88/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The "Second Chance" My Dad Never Got
01:25 Introduction: Alan Lazaros (Engineer, MBA, CEO)
02:00 The Crash: Facing Death & The "Wrong Life"
03:51 Regret of the Dying: Are You Living True to Yourself?
06:52 The Trap of "Paper Success" vs. Fulfillment
09:24 Getting Off Autopilot: Conscious Decision Making
11:36 The Grind: Lessons from 2,200+ Episodes & 11,500 Hours
15:34 The Reticular Activating System: Audit Your "Dominant Focus"
19:00 Alan's Definition of Success: Reaching Full Potential
21:04 Next Level University & How to Connect
How does a man who just suffered a stroke in the middle of a classroom—unable to speak or walk more than a block—go on to lose 100 pounds and walk 3,500 miles?
Chip Scholz, an executive coach and author of Small Decisions, Big Shifts, shares his incredible story of turning a life-threatening health crisis into a total life reinvention. He takes us back to the moment he realized he was incapacitated and the specific framework he used to rebuild his body and mind from scratch.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of the "micro-pivot." Chip explains why our brains struggle to grasp big changes and why the secret to success lies in making small, almost invisible decisions. Discover the "5 C's" of self-leadership, how to avoid the "To-Do List Trap" that ruins productivity, and why he believes "It's not how you fail, it's how you get up."
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Chip's "Rock Bottom": Having a stroke while teaching a class.
* The "5 C's" Framework: Context, Clarity, Conditioning, Choice, Character.
* How Chip walked 3,500 miles in two years to recover his health.
* The "To-Do List Trap": Why we do the 17 easy things and ignore the 3 hard ones.
* Understanding Cognitive Biases: Confirmation Bias vs. Sunk Cost Fallacy.
* Why you should stop beating yourself up over failure.
* The "Small Decision" strategy: How to shift momentum when you feel paralyzed.
* Chip's definition of true success: Getting what you want.
This episode is for anyone recovering from a health crisis, business leaders feeling stuck in complexity, or anyone who needs proof that small steps can lead to massive transformation.
Connect With Chip Scholz:
* Book: Small Decisions, Big Shifts (Amazon)
* Website: https://scholzandassociates.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chipscholz/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Walking 3,500 Miles After a Stroke
01:10 Introduction: Chip Scholz's Story
01:40 The Crisis: Having a Stroke in Class
02:20 The 5 C's Framework (Context to Character)
05:30 The Recovery: Losing 100 lbs & Walking
06:27 It's Not How You Fail, It's How You Get Up
07:55 The "To-Do List Trap" & Human Behavior
09:50 Cognitive Biases: Why We Get Stuck
12:21 The First Small Step to Shift Momentum
13:43 Chip's Definition of True Success
15:58 How to Connect with Chip
How does a professional with an 18-year successful career across 6 countries suddenly become invisible?
Aparajita Sudarshan, founder of Cvolve Pro, shares her brutal wake-up call after moving to the UK. Despite training over 15,000 students and being highly qualified, she found herself waking up to 11 rejection emails before breakfast. She tried everything: expensive CV writers, ChatGPT, keyword stuffers—and nothing worked.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of turning rejection into innovation. Aparajita explains why the traditional "static CV" is dead and why even paid experts fail against modern ATS systems. Discover how she stopped applying and started building, creating the AI tool that took her from 100+ rejections to 100+ interview invitations.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Aparajita's "Rock Bottom": Moving to the UK and becoming professionally invisible.
* The £169 mistake: Why professional CV writers often fail.
* The problem with "static CVs" in a dynamic job market.
* Why ChatGPT and generic AI tools aren't enough for job applications.
* The birth of Cvolve Pro: Building a solution out of desperation.
* How to prepare for interviews using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
* The mental toll of constant rejection and how to persist.
* Aparajita's advice for anyone currently drowning in rejection emails.
* Her unique definition of success: It's a moving target, not a destination.
This episode is for job seekers feeling hopeless, immigrants struggling to break into a new market, or anyone tired of sending applications into the void.
Connect With Aparajita Sudarshan:
* Try Cvolve Pro: https://cvolvepro.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aparajita-sudarshan-16456298/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Waking Up to Rejection
01:27 Introduction: Aparajita's Journey
01:54 The Rock Bottom: Invisibility in the UK Market
03:07 Why Paid CV Writers & Generic Tools Failed
04:16 Building Cvolve Pro: A Candidate's Solution
05:40 The STAR Interview Method Explained
09:38 Why You Must "Evolve" Your CV for Every Job
12:27 From 100 Rejections to 100 Interviews
14:07 Advice for the Desperate Job Seeker
15:35 Aparajita's Definition of True Success
16:36 How to Connect with Aparajita
How do you survive when doctors tell you there is no medication you can take, you've flatlined multiple times, and you are destined to remain in a wheelchair forever?
Cyndee Dhalai, an author and medical enigma, shares her breathtaking story of resilience. She describes starting from "minus zero" after being disowned by her family, only to face a severe illness (Lupus and Chronic Kidney Disease) that left her in a wheelchair for over 11 years. Because her body rejected all medication, she had to find a different way to survive.
This episode is a profound look at the FailCraft theme of the human spirit's capacity to overcome. Cyndee explains the mindset shift that changed everything: asking "What are the advantages of being in this position?". Discover how she defied medical predictions to walk again through faith and persistence, how she processed deep grief through writing, and why she views life as a miracle.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Cyndee's "Rock Bottom": Being disowned, losing her career, and losing her health.
* The medical nightmare: Being allergic to all medication and flatlining.
* The reality of spending 11 years in a wheelchair.
* The mindset shift: Finding the "advantages" in disability (patience, listening).
* The moment she decided to walk again despite doctors saying it was impossible.
* How writing poetry became a vessel for healing grief.
* Advice for anyone feeling like they are starting from "minus zero".
* Why you must stop asking "What is wrong with me?" and start asking "What can I learn?"
* Cyndee's definition of true success: Peace and Contentment.
This episode is for anyone facing a chronic illness, navigating deep grief, or looking for proof that the human spirit can defy even the bleakest medical odds.
Connect With Cyndee Dhalai:
* Book (Poetry): Pieces of Me, Touch My Soul (Amazon)
* Book (Grief): Grief is the Price You Pay for Love (Amazon)
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyndee-d-1a4905299/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Allergic to All Medication
01:10 Introduction: Cyndee Dhalai's Miracle Story
01:41 The Rock Bottom: Disowned & Diagnosed
03:22 Flatlining & 11 Years in a Wheelchair
06:17 The Mindset Shift: Finding Advantages in Illness
08:30 Defying the Doctors: The Decision to Walk Again
11:24 The Conversation with God
13:43 Writing as a Healing Mechanism for Grief
15:49 Advice for Starting From "Minus Zero"
18:07 Stop Asking "What's Wrong With Me?"
19:43 Cyndee's Definition of True Success
21:19 How to Connect with Cyndee
What does it actually look like when a country falls apart? And what happens when the agency designed to help stabilize them is suddenly destroyed?
Clifford Brown, a former USAID Mission Director with a 27-year career, takes us to the front lines of civil chaos. He describes witnessing military coups in Haiti, the Tulip Revolution in Kyrgyzstan, and gun battles in Guinea. He explains the terrifying reality of seeing bodies on the side of the road and watching social consensus evaporate overnight.
This episode is a critical look at the fragility of civilization. Clifford discusses the sudden termination of USAID in 2025—an institutional failure he calls a tragedy for the world. He reflects on leaving a lucrative law partnership in Beverly Hills for a life of service, the "preemptive capitulation" of US policy regarding religion and terrorism, and why he believes helping others is the ultimate form of success.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Clifford's transition from Beverly Hills lawyer to the chaos of foreign aid.
* The shocking termination of USAID in 2025 and its global impact.
* First-hand accounts of societal collapse in Haiti, Guatemala, and Kyrgyzstan.
* The "Tulip Revolution" and what happens when the police disappear.
* The "Better Angels" of foreign aid: Why it wasn't just about money.
* The dangerous disconnect caused by national borders.
* Why the US government could fund shooting terrorists but not arguing with their beliefs.
* Clifford's definition of true success: Helping others.
This episode is for anyone interested in geopolitics, history, or understanding the delicate balance that keeps societies from falling into chaos.
Connect With Clifford Brown:
* Substack: https://cliffordbrown.substack.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clifford-brown-2608428/
* Book: Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance (Available on Amazon)
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Witnessing a Coup in Haiti
01:16 Introduction: Clifford Brown & The End of USAID
02:05 The Termination of USAID in 2025
04:14 Leaving Beverly Hills Law for the Front Lines
07:57 Was Leaving a Lucrative Career a Mistake?
09:31 When Society Collapses: First-Hand Accounts
12:37 The Fragility of Social Consensus
13:00 Clifford's Definition of True Success
13:53 The Danger of Polarization & Borders
15:20 How to Read Clifford's Stories
How does a 15-time marathon runner and Ironman triathlete end up fighting for his life against cancer—twice?
Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, author of Every Mile Matters, shares his harrowing journey from the peak of physical fitness to a devastating double diagnosis. He describes the shock of being diagnosed with prostate cancer just months after completing an Ironman, and then facing a Stage 3B colorectal cancer diagnosis less than a year later.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of resilience: using the discipline forged in training to survive the "race you never signed up for." Jeff explains how he used the "comfortable being uncomfortable" mindset of triathlon to endure 35 rounds of chemotherapy. Discover why he refused to quit chemo even when his doctor suggested it, and how he shifted his definition of success from race times to clear scans.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Jeff's "Rock Bottom": Being diagnosed with cancer twice in two years.
* The difference between "Health" and "Fitness" (and why fitness doesn't guarantee health).
* How Triathlon training prepared him for the physical torture of Chemotherapy.
* The "Just 12 More Miles" mentality: finding strength when you thought you were done.
* Why he refused to stop chemo even when his body was failing.
* The "Vulnerability Shift": How cancer changed his relationships with male friends.
* Why he wrote Every Mile Matters during his treatment.
* Jeff's advice on building a "Support Team" before a crisis hits.
* His definition of true success: Quality of life and relationships.
This episode is for anyone facing a health crisis, endurance athletes looking for deeper purpose, or anyone who needs a blueprint for how to keep going when life tells you to stop.
Connect With Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds:
* Book: Every Mile Matters (Amazon/Barnes & Noble)
* Website: https://www.everymilematters.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjeffreyreynolds
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Uncomfortable Nature of Triathlon
01:07 Introduction: Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds
01:55 The Double Diagnosis: Prostate & Colorectal Cancer
03:20 The "Marathon" of Treatment: 35 Rounds of Chemo
05:40 Triathlon Mindset: Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
07:10 Refusing to Quit Chemo: The "Finish Line" Mentality
09:16 Measuring Success: From Race Times to Life
12:29 Why He Wrote "Every Mile Matters"
15:25 Building Your Support Team Before the Crisis
16:54 Jeff's Definition of True Success
18:23 How to Connect with Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds
Why do the "aha moments" we get from books and seminars often disappear by Monday morning?
Michael Ostrolenk, a Master Coach for SEALFIT’s Unbeatable Mind Academy and a human resilience expert, argues that "Mindset is not enough." He shares his own origin story, starting at age nine with an autoimmune disorder and learning disabilities, which forced him to learn biofeedback and meditation to manage his own internal state.
This episode dives deep into the FailCraft theme: understanding the mechanics of why we fail to sustain change. Michael shares a brutal lesson from SEALFIT Kokoro camp about ego versus team and explains why true resilience requires aligning your nervous system, not just your thoughts. Discover why he believes the body (somatic psychology) is the missing key to overcoming setbacks and why sleep is the first practical step to recovery.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Michael's origin story: Battling autoimmune issues and learning biofeedback at age 9.
* The SEALFIT Kokoro Camp lesson: Why ego leads to failure.
* The "Grandfather Zen" vs. "Grandmother Zen" approach to support.
* Why Mindset is not enough: The difference between a "state experience" and a "stabilized trait".
* Somatic Psychology: How your physical posture dictates your mental resilience.
* Relationship Resilience: Why men try to "fix" problems and how to hold space instead.
* A comprehensive definition of Resilience (Physical, Mental, Spiritual).
* The #1 practical step for anyone facing a major setback: Fix your sleep.
* Michael's definition of true success: Impact on others.
This episode is for high performers who feel stuck despite having the "right mindset," anyone interested in the science of resilience, or couples looking to support each other through adversity.
Connect With Michael Ostrolenk:
* Website: https://michaeldostrolenk.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mostrolenk/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelostrolenkresiliencemastery/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Why "Aha Moments" Fade
01:09 Introduction: Michael Ostrolenk's Expertise
01:38 The Origin Story: Biofeedback at Age 9
03:48 The SEALFIT Lesson: Ego vs. Team
06:50 The Core Philosophy: Why Mindset is Not Enough
08:16 Somatic Psychology: The Body's Role in Resilience
10:41 Relationship Resilience: Stop Fixing, Start Supporting
13:57 What is Resilience? (Physical, Emotional, Spiritual)
17:56 The First Practical Step: Sleep Optimization
19:13 Michael's Definition of True Success: Impact
20:01 How to Connect with Michael
What happens when the foundation of your life—a 28-year marriage—collapses and leaves you feeling like Humpty Dumpty, broken into a million pieces?
Stacie Shifflett, a master of transformation and founder of Modern Consciousness®, shares her powerful journey of rebuilding from scratch. She opens up about the moment she realized her life wouldn't "organically recreate itself" and the intentional work required to step off autopilot.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of turning massive disruption into clarity. Stacie shares the incredible story of how she acquired a $50M software company with no money down simply by refusing to tell herself "no." . Discover why she refuses to view her past marriage as "wasted time" and how she uses emotional triggers as a "cheat code" to find true peace.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Stacie's "Humpty Dumpty" moment: The collapse of a 28-year marriage.
* How to step off autopilot and stop waiting for life to fix itself.
* The $50M Mindset: How she bought a massive company with $0 investment.
* Why Emotional Triggers are actually "waypoints" on your map to joy.
* The danger of the "I wasted my life" narrative and how to shift it.
* Why "Disruption isn't Destruction".
* A practical guide to charting your own "Treasure Map to Joy."
* Stacie's definition of true success: Inner Peace.
This episode is for anyone navigating a major life transition (divorce, career change, loss) who wants to stop reacting to life and start designing their next chapter with intention.
Connect With Stacie Shifflett:
* Free Workbook (Navigating Triggers): https://modernconsciousness.com/
* Book: Treasure Map to Joy (Available on Amazon/Website)
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernconsciousness/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: "I Didn't Waste 28 Years"
00:59 Introduction: Stacie Shifflett's Transformation
01:27 The Rock Bottom: Feeling Like Humpty Dumpty
02:43 Stepping Off Autopilot & Taking Control
04:12 Emotional Triggers are Your Cheat Code
07:27 How She Bought a $50M Company with No Money
11:12 Knowing When to Walk Away
12:29 Reframing Divorce: It Wasn't a Waste
14:27 Core Philosophy: Disruption is Not Destruction
17:07 Stacie's Definition of True Success: Peace
19:45 The "Treasure Map to Joy" Concept
21:55 How to Get the Free Workbook
What do you do when your wife is diagnosed with cancer, and one week later, you lose your job?
DK Kang, author of Mindset Metamorphosis, shares his harrowing story of facing a "compounded adversity" that would break most people. He details the timeline of battling infertility for a decade, receiving a Stage 2 cancer diagnosis for his wife, and then being laid off by his employer just days after asking for a flexible schedule.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of finding purpose in the deepest pain. DK explains how he used his 30 years of martial arts training to "face the punch" rather than run away. Discover how he navigated $60k in debt without income, why he refused to ask "Why me?" and instead asked "Who can I help?", and the daily disciplines that kept him standing when everything else fell apart.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* DK's "Rock Bottom": Infertility, Cancer, and Job Loss all at once.
* The shocking story of being fired one week after disclosing his wife's diagnosis.
* How to shift from "Why me?" to "Why not us?".
* The Martial Arts Mindset: Why you must face life's punches head-on.
* Gratitude in the Fire: Finding perspective through faith (The Job & Jesus analogy).
* Why 70-80% of marriages fail during cancer battles (and how he stayed).
* Practical steps for when you feel your dreams have died.
* DK's definition of true success: Being present in the moment.
This episode is for anyone facing a health crisis, financial ruin, or a season of life where it feels like everything is going wrong at the same time.
Connect With DK Kang:
* Get the Free Book Chapter: https://www.dkkang.com/
* Email: dk@dkkang.com
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dkkangtkd/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Double Tragedy (Cancer & Job Loss)
01:18 Introduction: DK Kang's Story of Compounded Adversity
01:44 The Timeline: Infertility, Cancer Diagnosis, and Layoff
05:10 The Mindset Shift: From "Why Me?" to "Who Can I Help?"
06:10 The Tiny Decision: Committing to His Wife
08:15 Martial Arts Wisdom: Facing the Punch Head-On
11:10 Finding "Gratitude in the Fire"
15:32 Inside the Book: "Mindset Metamorphosis"
19:41 What to Do When Your Dreams Die
21:30 DK's Definition of True Success
23:20 How to Connect with DK
How does a high-level VP with "everything" on paper end up lost, numb, and dependent on alcohol just to cope?
Ben Stein, founder of Purpose Up and a sought-after career coach, shares his raw journey from corporate burnout to finding true alignment. He opens up about using alcohol and marijuana as a "ball and chain" to avoid facing his unhappiness, and the pivotal moment he was laid off while secretly feeling relieved.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of shedding the false self to find the real one. Ben explains why he left a successful career to backpack solo around the world, how he overcame the "ego voices" that told him it was too late to pivot, and his actionable "Rapid Career Accelerator" framework for anyone feeling stuck.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Ben's rock bottom: Numbing his pain with alcohol and marijuana as a VP.
* The moment his coach told him he was "ready to fly" but held back by addiction.
* Why he secretly felt relieved when he was laid off from a high-paying job.
* The transformative power of solo travel (climbing Kilimanjaro & Everest Base Camp).
* The "Ego Voices" exercise: How to silence the inner critic holding you back.
* Why feeling fear is actually a signal to walk towards something.
* The difference between a "job" and a "purpose."
* Ben's definition of true success: Alignment (Gandhi's philosophy).
* Practical first steps for anyone wanting to pivot their career today.
This episode is for anyone feeling stuck in a "successful" career they hate, struggling with numbing behaviors, or looking for a roadmap to find work that actually matters.
Connect With Ben Stein:
* Website: https://www.purposeup.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbenstein/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Ball and Chain of Addiction
01:17 Introduction: Ben Stein's Story
01:40 The Breaking Point: Numbing the Pain
03:52 From Coping Mechanism to Crutch (Alcohol & Weed)
06:24 The Pivot: Solo Backpacking & Finding Freedom
07:38 The Layoff: A Blessing in Disguise
10:06 Practical Step: Silencing the "Ego Voices"
12:17 Success is Alignment (Gandhi's Philosophy)
13:20 How to Connect with Ben & Get Free Gifts
How do you go from hiding in a closet hoping to be found, to becoming a high-powered executive, only to burn out completely?
Pamela Cass, a performance coach and cancer survivor, shares her deeply personal journey of growing up with dyslexia in the 70s. She explains how being pulled out of class made her want to be "invisible", leading to a lifetime of overcompensating through work. She reached the top of the corporate ladder only to find herself with stage 2 hypertension, stage 4 burnout, and disconnected from her family.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of redefining success. Pamela reveals why she walked away from a six-figure salary as a single mom to save her life. Discover why she believes dyslexia is a "quiet gift" rather than a disability, and how her "Reignite Resilience" philosophy helps leaders stop bouncing back and start "rising differently."
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Pamela's childhood trauma: Trying to be invisible due to dyslexia.
* The "Overcompensation Trap": Why she worked 7 days a week to prove her worth.
* The physical reality of executive burnout (high blood pressure, no sleep).
* Why she believes "Dyslexia is not a disability, it's a gift".
* The powerful concept: Resilience isn't bouncing back, it's "Rising Differently".
* The "Tombstone Test": Why no one wishes they worked more.
* A practical exercise to identify your core values and stop the friction in your life.
* How to use your calendar to prioritize what actually matters (Family/Health first).
* Pamela's definition of true success: Providing value without expectation.
This episode is for anyone who feels unseen, overworks to prove their worth, or is on the brink of burnout and needs permission to choose themselves over their title.
Connect With Pamela Cass:
* Website (Book & Coaching): https://pamelacass.com/
* Podcast: Reignite Resilience https://reigniteresiliencepodcast.beehiiv.com/
* Book: The Quiet Gift (Available on her website/Amazon)
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pam.cass70/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Hiding in the Closet & Dyslexia
01:07 Introduction: Pamela Cass's Journey
01:39 The Origin Story: Dyslexia and the Desire to be Invisible
04:20 Hitting the Wall: Executive Burnout & Walking Away
06:31 Resilience is "Rising Differently"
09:22 Reframing Dyslexia: From Disability to Gift
12:23 Burnout is Feedback, Not Failure
14:59 Practical Step: The Core Values Exercise
16:37 Pamela's Definition of True Success
17:17 How to Connect with Pamela
How does a homeless teenager living in a tent end up as a government minister with her name physically on the moon?
Jennifer Gligoric, a business crisis interventionist and Minister of Equity and Resources for Asgardia (the world's first digital nation), shares one of the most incredible resilience stories we've ever heard. She details her brutal rock bottom—from sleeping in cars and surviving on the streets to the humiliating moment she ate strangers' leftovers at a diner out of starvation and anger.
This episode is a masterclass in the FailCraft theme: transforming survival instincts into business superpowers. Jennifer explains how learning to "blend in" to avoid predators on the street became her secret weapon in corporate consulting. She also discusses the historic moment her name was landed on the moon via the Firefly Blue Ghost lander and why true success is about breaking the cycle of poverty for the next generation.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Jennifer's "Rock Bottom": Surviving homelessness, Covenant House, and street life.
* The historic Asgardia mission: How her name ended up on the Moon.
* The "Blend In" Superpower: How survival instincts translate to business consulting.
* The Turning Point: Getting "sick of herself" and moving from anger to action.
* How to turn "bad opportunities" (like a failing steel company) into a skillset.
* Ethical Entrepreneurship: Why you must replace fear with data.
* The connection between "Divine Purpose" and business success.
[Image of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs]
* Jennifer's advice on how to find what you were put on this planet to do.
* Jennifer's definition of true success: Watching her son thrive in college.
This episode is for anyone who feels defined by their current circumstances, entrepreneurs looking to align with their purpose, or anyone who needs proof that you can go from the absolute bottom to literally out of this world.
Connect With Jennifer Gligoric:
* Website: https://superclinicproject.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifergligoric/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: Eating Leftovers to Survive
01:21 Jennifer's Name is on the Moon (Asgardia)
02:41 The Reality of Teen Homelessness
04:10 The "Blend In" Superpower: Survival to Business
06:20 The Turning Point: "I Got Sick of Myself"
10:58 Converting Adversity into a Career (The Steel Company Story)
13:58 Ethical Entrepreneurship: Fear vs. Data
17:20 Finding Your Divine Purpose in Business
21:20 Breaking the Poverty Cycle: Her Definition of Success
24:05 How to Connect with Jennifer
How does someone go from institutionalized child abuse, prostitution, and drug addiction to becoming an Ironman Triathlete?
Margie Allman, author of The Sufferfest, shares one of the most breathtaking stories of resilience ever told on FailCraft. She details her "rock bottom"—which was actually a series of them—including surviving a controversial teen rehab program called Straight Inc., battling epilepsy and toxic shock syndrome, and spiraling into prostitution to numb her shame.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of turning physical suffering into emotional salvation. Margie explains how the intense pain of triathlon training ("The Sufferfest") helped her "wring out the yuck" of her past. Discover how she finally found self-worth in her 50s after losing her partner of 22 years, and why she believes just opening the door and moving is the first step to saving your own life.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Margie's harrowing "Aftermath": Surviving Straight Inc., addiction, and prostitution.
* The turning point: How Pilates gave her the first taste of self-worth.
* Why she calls triathlon "The Sufferfest" and how physical pain healed her emotional shame.
* Surviving Toxic Shock Syndrome and a coma at age 30.
* The tragedy of losing her partner a month before her 50th birthday.
* How she finally reprogrammed the deep belief that she was a "failure".
* The simple, powerful advice for anyone stuck in addiction: "Just open the door and move".
* Margie's definition of true success: Being at peace with herself.
This episode is for survivors of abuse, anyone battling addiction or deep shame, and everyone who needs proof that no matter how dark your past is, you can still build a life of strength and peace.
Connect With Margie Allman:
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margieallman
* Book: The Sufferfest (Coming Soon)
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Spiral of Shame
00:52 Introduction: Margie Allman's Story
01:34 The "Aftermath": Surviving Abuse, Addiction & Prostitution
02:50 The First Turn: Pilates & Self-Esteem
03:20 Triathlon: Replacing Destructive Fire with "Good Fire"
09:06 "The Sufferfest": How Physical Pain Healed Emotional Shame
11:07 Surviving Toxic Shock Syndrome & Losing a Partner
12:25 Reprogramming the "Failure" Mindset in Her 50s
13:20 Advice for the Stuck: Just Open the Door and Move
14:44 Margie's Definition of True Success
15:41 How to Connect with Margie
How do you heal when your body is stuck in "danger mode" long after the event is over?
Christina Ketchen, a "nervous system nerd" and host of The Self Love Shift, shares her harrowing experience of surviving a 50-foot fall down a cliff. She reveals how this physical trauma taught her a profound lesson: even when we are safe, our nervous system can keep us trapped in fear.
This episode dives deep into the FailCraft theme of breaking the cycles that keep us stuck. Christina explains the difference between the Sympathetic (fight/flight) and Parasympathetic (calm) nervous systems, and why so many of us hover in a baseline state of agitation. Discover why she believes "we don't need fixing" and how to finally silence the inner voice that says you aren't good enough.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Christina's story: Surviving a 50-foot fall down a cliff and the lesson of Acceptance.
* How emotional patterns (like "not good enough") are formed in childhood.
* Why self-love isn't just bubble baths—it's how you talk to yourself.
* The science of the Nervous System: Why your body still feels unsafe.
* How to access the Prefrontal Cortex to stop reacting emotionally.
* The powerful philosophy: "You don't need fixing".
* The difference between "Big T" Trauma and "Little t" Trauma.
* Practical steps to find a kinder way forward after a setback.
* Christina's definition of true success: Giving one person a glimmer of hope.
This episode is for anyone who feels emotionally exhausted, constantly on edge, or stuck in a loop of feeling "not enough," and is ready for a science-backed approach to healing.
Connect With Christina Ketchen:
* Free Masterclass (Patterns): https://christinaketchen.com/free-masterclass-video/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinaketchen/
* Website: https://christinaketchen.com/
* Podcast: The Self Love Shift
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Nervous System Sensing Danger
01:04 Introduction: Christina Ketchen
01:37 The 50ft Cliff Fall & The Power of Acceptance
02:55 Uncovering Emotional Patterns & "Not Good Enough"
05:20 Real Self-Love vs. "Fluff"
06:32 Nervous System 101: Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic
09:34 Why "You Don't Need Fixing"
12:03 confronting the Lie of "Not Enoughness"
13:48 "Big T" vs. "Little t" Trauma
15:43 Christina's Definition of True Success
16:31 Free Masterclass & How to Connect
How do you go from a high school dropout at 18 to signing deals with Penguin and Scholastic? For Kern Carter, it wasn't an overnight success—it was a 15-year game of strategy and perseverance.
Kern shares the raw reality of becoming a father at 18, losing his scholarship, and having to leave home to support his family. He describes the loneliness of that setback and the immense pressure to provide, which ultimately fueled his drive to finish his education and pursue his dream of writing.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme of patience and grit. Kern reveals the life-changing advice a professor gave him about the "15-year journey" to becoming a professional author and how he treated his art like a business to survive. Discover how he sold 15,000 books without a massive social media following by leveraging community and strategy.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Kern's rock bottom: Dropping out of high school at 18 to become a father.
* How he regained his education and a basketball scholarship against the odds.
* The critical advice: Why it takes 15 years to truly "make it" as an author.
* How Kern used copywriting and entrepreneurship to fund his dream.
* The strategy behind selling 15,000 books without being viral on social media.
* The importance of honesty: "Figure out who you are and what you want to do".
* Why exposure (Penguin/Scholastic) matters just as much as talent.
* Kern's ultimate definition of success: Being the best writer in the world.
This episode is for aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, and anyone who feels like their current setbacks have disqualified them from their childhood dreams.
Connect With Kern Carter:
* Website: https://www.kerncarter.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerncarter/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerncarter/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Reality of Becoming a Teen Father
01:12 Introduction: Kern Carter's 15-Year Journey
01:44 The Setback: Dropping Out at 18 to Raise a Child
03:44 Perseverance: Regaining a Basketball Scholarship
05:15 The "15-Year Rule": Advice from a Professor
09:05 The Entrepreneurial Author: Treating Art as a Business
11:45 How to Sell 15,000 Books Without Viral Fame
15:03 Advice for Those Who Feel Their Dream is Over
17:17 Kern's Definition of True Success: Being the Best
18:14 How to Connect with Kern
How does a doctor with a thriving practice and the "American Dream" end up divorced, bankrupt, and diagnosed with cancer all at once?
Dr. Alain Salas, a mind-body expert and Amazon #1 best-selling author, shares his harrowing journey from the peak of success to a devastating rock bottom. He reveals how severe burnout caused his life to crumble—living in his office for three years while battling colon cancer. But in that darkness, he discovered the missing link: the programming of the subconscious mind.
This episode dives deep into the FailCraft theme: understanding why we fail even when we work hard. Dr. Salas explains that 90-95% of our life is dictated by the subconscious, often running "limiting belief" programs from our childhood. Discover the difference between "Victim Mode" and "Creator Mode," and learn his 3-step system to delete negative programs and download success.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Dr. Salas's "Rock Bottom": Losing his marriage, business, and health simultaneously.
* The early signs of burnout: Being present physically but absent mentally.
* Victim Mode vs. Creator Mode: How to stop the "blame game".
* The shocking stat: Why 95% of your life is controlled by the subconscious.
* How childhood programming (ages 0-7) dictates your adult relationships.
* The "Self-Sabotage Loop": Thoughts - Feelings - Actions - Results.
* Why Dr. Salas refuses to believe in "failure".
* The 3-Step Mind Clearing Process: Delete, Download, Create.
* Dr. Salas's definition of true success: Living your purpose.
This episode is for entrepreneurs who feel stuck in a loop of self-sabotage, anyone battling burnout, or those looking to understand the hidden mechanics of their own mind.
Connect With Dr. Alain Salas:
* Website & Special Offer: https://themindclearing.com/ (Mention FailCraft for 20% off)
* Contact: https://themindclearing.com/contact-us/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: "Failure Doesn't Exist"
01:41 The American Dream Turned Nightmare: Burnout & Cancer
03:45 Hitting Rock Bottom: Living in the Office
05:30 Finding the Missing Link: The Mind-Body Connection
07:53 Early Signs of Burnout: The "Monkey Mind"
09:54 Victim Mode vs. Creator Mode
11:28 The Subconscious Mind Rules 95% of Your Life
13:16 How We Are Programmed (The Predator/Prey Analogy)
15:20 The Geometry of Self-Sabotage
17:45 Why Failure is Just a Lesson
19:20 Advice for the Exhausted Entrepreneur
21:50 The Mind Clearing Technique: Delete & Download
22:37 Defining True Success: Living Your Purpose
Why do we get stuck in a "vicious cycle" even when we know what we *should* be doing?
Dr. Len Lopez, a nutrition and fitness expert with over 25 years of experience, realized that most people fail because they are trying to balance a "three-legged stool" while only focusing on one leg. . He explains that true health isn't just about what you eat or how you train—it's about how you Sleep, Think, and feed your Spirit.
This episode dives into the FailCraft theme: using accountability and feedback to turn setbacks into clarity. Dr. Len introduces his "5 S.T.E.P.S. a Day" framework—a simple visual tool designed to move you from a vicious cycle to a virtuous circle. Discover why he says you need to "Sleep with a Smile" and how to stop letting negative thoughts dominate your mental shopping cart.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* The "Three-Legged Stool" analogy: Why Body, Mind, and Spirit must be balanced.
* Why fitness trackers aren't enough (and what they are missing).
* The 5 S.T.E.P.S. acronym explained (Sleep, Think, Eat, Physical, Spirit).
* The power of "Visual Shading" for immediate dopamine and accountability.
* Why 80% of your thoughts are negative and how to fix your "mental shopping cart".
* The concept of "Sleeping with a Smile" and using visualization to fight anxiety.
* Dr. Len's "Chef" analogy: Taking adult responsibility for your habits.
* Dr. Len's definition of true success: Peace and Balance.
This episode is for anyone feeling physically fit but spiritually empty, or anyone stuck in a rut looking for a simple, 2-minute daily habit to regain control of their life.
Connect With Dr. Len Lopez:
* Download the App: https://drlenlopez.com/5stepsaday/
* Website: https://drlenlopez.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlenlopez/
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Danger of Wandering in Life
00:52 Introduction: Dr. Len Lopez & The Vicious Cycle
02:41 The "Three-Legged Stool": Balancing Body, Mind, & Spirit
04:32 What the "Vicious Cycle" Feels Like
07:09 The 5 S.T.E.P.S. Framework Explained
12:03 Why "Think" and "Spirit" are the Missing Pieces
13:54 You Are the Chef: Taking Responsibility for Your Habits
19:47 "Sleeping with a Smile": The Power of Visualization
22:52 Practical Step: Visual Tracking vs. Journaling
27:17 Dr. Len's Definition of True Success
28:44 How to Get the 5 Steps App
Are you running your day, or is your day running you? For many leaders, the road to burnout is paved with "reaction mode."
Dusty Holcomb, a former CEO and 5-time Ironman, knows this trap intimately. He shares his story of being a new company president who tried to "do it all," only to realize that his inability to let go was holding the company back. He describes the suffocating feeling of constant reaction and the pivotal mentorship that taught him true leadership isn't about being the hero—it's about serving others.
This episode explores the FailCraft theme of trading chaos for alignment. Dusty breaks down the "Ironman Mindset"—how the discipline to do the work is vital, but ignoring your body's warning signs can be destructive. Discover the frameworks he uses to help executives stop reacting, start prioritizing, and finally learn the power of saying "No."
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Dusty's burnout story: The mistake of trying to be everywhere at once.
* What "Reaction Mode" feels like and why it destroys performance.
* The Ironman Mindset: When discipline helps and when it hurts.
* The single best daily discipline for mental clarity (it takes 5 minutes).
* Why "Self-Leadership" is not selfish—it's a requirement.
* The struggle of saying "No" to good ideas to protect the best ideas.
* A practical first step to identify your "Leadership Gap".
* Why execution problems are usually just clarity problems in disguise.
* Dusty's definition of true success: Impact that cascades.
This episode is essential for executives, entrepreneurs, and high-performers who feel trapped in the daily grind and are ready to regain control of their time and energy.
Connect With Dusty Holcomb:
* Free Leadership Gap Assessment: https://leadershipgapassessment.scoreapp.com/
* Website & Resources: https://arcqusgroup.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustyholcomb/
* Podcast: Leadership Unlocked
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Hook: The Danger of "Reaction Mode"
01:51 Introduction: Dusty Holcomb’s Journey
02:36 The Setback: The CEO Who Tried to Do It All
04:39 What Leadership Chaos Actually Feels Like
06:14 The Ironman Mindset: Discipline vs. Destruction
08:47 The #1 Daily Habit for Clarity: Gratitude Journaling
09:56 Servant Leadership: Why It’s Not About You
11:56 The Hardest Leadership Skill: Saying "No"
13:16 Practical Step: How to Stop Reacting and Start Leading
15:08 Dusty's Definition of True Success
16:05 How to Connect with Dusty
How do you turn a near-death experience at 19 years old into a philosophy for life and business?
Jordan Mendoza, a top LinkedIn voice and host of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, takes us back to the terrifying moment in Wyoming when he woke up in a truck sliding at 70mph. He details the gruesome reality of the crash, losing pints of blood, requiring 52 staples to put his legs back together, and the moment he was told he might never walk again.
This episode dives deep into the FailCraft theme: using physical and emotional scars as fuel. Jordan opens up about growing up with an abusive stepfather, the inspiration he drew from his mother's health battles, and how he finally found the courage to be authentic on LinkedIn. Discover the tools and mindset shifts he uses to turn significant personal hardship into a global brand.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Jordan's harrowing story of surviving a rollover car crash at 70mph.
* The reality of his recovery: From a walker to 52 staples and learning to walk again.
* How faith and community helped him remain positive during the lowest points.
* Why it took the loss of his mother to finally embrace his own story.
* The struggle of balancing a professional LinkedIn brand with raw vulnerability.
* How undiagnosed ADHD and being a "disruptor" shaped his trailblazing path.
* Two practical tools (MBTI & StrengthsFinder) to help you get unstuck.
* The formula for results: Action - Momentum - Consistency - Habits.
* Jordan's definition of true success: Seeing his clients win.
This episode is for anyone who feels defined by their past trauma, entrepreneurs struggling to be authentic online, or anyone who needs proof that you can rebuild a life after a devastating crash.
Connect With Jordan Mendoza:
* Get the Book (The Life-Changing Power of Adversity): https://www.amazon.com/dp/1967424802?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0M93C54V6QD4MHGCZXB2&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0M93C54V6QD4MHGCZXB2&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0M93C54V6QD4MHGCZXB2&bestFormat=true
* Website: https://jordanjmendoza.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanjmendoza/
* Podcast: Blaze Your Own Trail
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: Jordan Mendoza’s Resilience
01:44 The 70mph Crash: A Defining Moment of Adversity
04:40 The Recovery: 52 Staples and Learning to Walk Again
07:11 Staying Positive: The Role of Faith and Community
08:55 Why Losing His Mom Sparked His Authenticity on LinkedIn
12:26 ADHD & The "Blaze Your Own Trail" Philosophy
14:39 Practical Advice for the Stuck: MBTI & StrengthsFinder
18:23 The Formula: Action Creates Momentum
17:50 Jordan's Definition of True Success
19:09 How to Get Jordan's Book
How does a young man with "every opportunity to become a statistic" end up a US Marine Officer and leadership mentor?
Olaolu Ogunyemi gets real about his past, sharing how insecurities about his name, his appearance, and a deep need to "fit in" nearly put him on the wrong path. He was getting into trouble, trying to incite fights, and living down to the low expectations around him.
This episode is a powerful look at the FailCraft theme: how a strong community can change a life's trajectory. Olaolu explains how teachers and coaches who "believed in me" became the stepping stone for him to take ownership of his life. He now uses those same lessons on insecurity to coach other leaders and wrote his children's book *Crow From the Shadow* based on those feelings.
In this episode of FailCraft, you’ll discover:
* Olaolu's core setback: Crushing insecurity and trying to fit in with the wrong crowd.
* The stepping stone: How a "strong community" of adults intervened to save him.
* Why your childhood insecurities will resurface as an adult leader (and how to handle them).
* The "Caterpillar vs. The Chameleon" model for authentic leadership.
* The personal story of insecurity behind his book, Crow From the Shadow.
* The "Lead Last" Philosophy: Why you must know yourself first.
* His powerful advice: Failure is a verb ("I failed"), not a noun ("I'm a failure").
* Olaolu's definition of true success: Measured by the impact on at least one life.
This episode is for parents, mentors, aspiring leaders, and anyone who has ever felt defined by their insecurities or circumstances.
Connect With Olaolu Ogunyemi:
* Website (Free Resources): https://parent-child-connect.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaolu-ogunyemi-465ba453/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olaolu.ogunyemi/
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCcR7d3yzZXfzcBfxveyP-g
Support the Show:
* Fuel the FailCraft Mission: https://iferia.nestuge.com/supportme
* Subscribe and leave a review!
* Share this episode if it resonated!
Want to Be a Guest on FailCraft?
* Reach out to Ezekiel on PodMatch
* PodMatch Host Profile: https://podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/failcraft
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction: From "Statistic" to Marine Officer
02:03 The Core Setback: Insecurity and Trying to Fit In
03:27 The Stepping Stone: How a Strong Community Saved Me
05:34 How Insecurity Holds Back Adult Leaders
07:02 The Caterpillar vs. The Chameleon: Authentic Leadership
09:30 The Story Behind "Crow From the Shadow"
11:16 The "Lead Last" Philosophy: Know Yourself First
13:32 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Failure
16:03 Advice for Feeling Stuck: "Life is a Weight Room"
17:48 Failure is a Verb, Not a Noun
19:30 Olaolu's Definition of True Success: Impact
21:55 How to Connect with Olaolu