What makes an event not just memorable—but transformative?

In this episode, Phil Mershon, acclaimed Director of Experience at Social Media Examiner and author of "Unforgettable," pulls back the curtain on the art and science of creating experiences that linger long after the final applause.

What if you could orchestrate events that people talk about for years, bond over for a lifetime, and that even change the course of careers? Phil’s journey from jazz saxophonist to global event architect is rich with hard-won insights, missteps, and soaring successes. Dive into an emotional, curiosity-driven conversation about how “belonging,” intentional design, and the courage to innovate forge truly unforgettable experiences.

What You'll Learn :

• Experiences have the power to transform—not just entertain—when people feel genuine belonging.
• The road from jazz musician to event visionary taught Phil that great events are “living organisms” that evolve every year.
• The book “Unforgettable” was inspired by the need to turn intuitive magic into practical frameworks others can follow.
• Unpredictable, immersive moments—like a mysterious “secret family reunion” in Tuscany—create lifelong bonds and new opportunities.
• The best events blend personal touches, meaningful conversations, and a willingness to learn from failures along the way.

Timestamps:

• [00:02] The Spark: Phil’s unconventional journey from jazz saxophone to event design
• [01:22] Early Mentors & Why Quality Management Changed Everything
• [03:22] The Birth of “Unforgettable”—Turning Vision Into Framework
• [05:00] Why Most Events Miss the Mark: The Belonging Factor
• [08:37] Creating Experiences No One Forgets—The Science & Emotion of Memorable Events
• [10:31] The Secret Family Reunion—A Lesson in Anticipation & Connection
• [16:53] If You Could Build an Event Anywhere: Middle Earth, Narnia… or Beyond?

Guest Links:

• Website: Social Media Examiner
• LinkedIn: Phil Mershon on LinkedIn
• Instagram: @phil_mershon
• Book: Unforgettable: The Art and Science of Creating Memorable Experiences

Let this episode show you: Every event has the potential to change lives—if you dare to make it unforgettable.

Bold, emotional, and brutally honest—this episode rips back the curtain on business advice and coaching. Hosted by Junaid Ahmed, "The Diary of a CEO" welcomes Mike Milan—known as “Cash Flow Mike”—who reveals the untold story behind his journey from state trooper to financial motivator.

Why do so many entrepreneurs ignore solid advice? What makes some finally take action? This episode is as much about emotional transformation as it is about balance sheets.

Mike shares his revolutionary "Elevation Sequence," a method forged on the front lines of human behavior, not just in boardrooms. Learn why most consultants get it wrong, why changing behavior is the only path to true business success, and how you can ignite breakthrough results in yourself and others.

What You'll Learn:

• Why business owners resist advice—and what really motivates change
• The Elevation Sequence: 8 actionable coaching steps to drive results
• How to create buy-in and ownership: the “Nudge Pact” and its real power
• Mike’s emotional lessons from hoarders, parenting, and policework
• A mindset shift: facilitating change instead of preaching answers

Timestamps:

• 00:01—From State Trooper to Cash Flow Coach: Mike’s unlikely journey
• 02:10—Why “Don’t Tell Me What to Do” is the advisor’s core challenge
• 05:25—Verbal Judo & The Art of Business Motivation
• 08:45—What Hoarders Can Teach Us About Business Owners
• 13:19—The Elevation Sequence: Eight Steps That Transform Clients
• 18:47—Emotion Meets Action: Connecting Money to Motivation
• 20:55—How to Unlock Commitment and Crush Resistance

Guest Links:

• Website: https://www.cashflowmike.com (free 7-minute cash flow lesson & digital resources)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cashflowmike
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cashflowmike
• Books:

Are you unknowingly bleeding cash from your business? 

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Mike Milan, famously known as “Cash Flow Mike”—the coach who’s helped over 25,000 business owners uncover $150 million in hidden cash. Discover why most entrepreneurs fly blind with their finances, and how a simple, actionable framework can radically transform your business life.

Mike opens up about his journey from state trooper to financial educator, the toughest cash flow lessons from the trenches, and his emotional mission to make business failure a thing of the past. If you want to see your numbers clearly—and finally stop lying awake at night—this is the episode you can’t afford to miss.

What You'll Learn:

• The single biggest cash flow mistake most business owners don’t realize they’re making
• Why understanding your financial statements isn’t as hard as you think
• The life-changing “Seven-Minute Conversation” and how it can spotlight your business’s burning issues—fast
• How to mine your company for hidden cash and shrink the dreaded “financial gap”
• Why “Don’t Be a Dumb Business Owner” isn’t an insult—it’s a wake-up call to master your money story

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Meet Cash Flow Mike: From spreadsheets to strategy—Mike’s origin story
• [02:00] Are you flying blind? Most business owners are—here’s why
• [03:11] How to read your numbers (and why most people zone out)
• [06:10] Mining for Hidden Cash: Six calculations to plug the leaks
• [08:00] The financial “gap”—and how it quietly drains your growth
• [09:58] The Seven-Minute Conversation: Transform your business finances in minutes
• [13:14] “Don’t Be a Dumb Business Owner”—the real story behind the book

Guest Links:

• Website: cashflowmike.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cashflowmike (searchable as “Cash Flow Mike”)
• Instagram: instagram.com/cashflowmike
• Book: Look for “Don’t Be a Dumb Business Owner” by Mike Milan on Amazon or at the links on his website

What if mastering sales was less about scripts—and more about psychology, habits, and building lasting systems?

In this electrifying, curiosity-driven conversation, Matt Raad sits down with renowned sales coach Howard Wolpoff, who reveals why confidence—not pressure—powers high-performing teams. From escaping the clutches of toxic micromanagement to the overlooked magic of CRMs, discover not just strategies, but the deeply human stories behind sales that stick. Walk away ready to transform your team's mindset, your own daily rituals, and the way you measure success.

Five Key Takeaways:

• Confidence is the fuel behind every great salesperson—and it starts with asking the right questions.
• Micromanagement kills momentum; creating real accountability means empowering, not stifling, your team.
• Simple, daily use of a CRM is the hidden superpower for tracking, follow-up, and closing.
• The only sales metrics that matter measure real progress toward your team’s true revenue targets.
• High-performance teams thrive with routines: block time for key activities, track it, and see exponential results.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Why Confidence—Not Scripts—Drives Sales: The Big Mindset Shift
• [02:26] Micromanagers Ruin Teams: Howard’s Personal Wake-Up Call
• [04:51] The Secret Power of CRMs (and How Most Salespeople Miss It)
• [08:18] Vanity Metrics vs. Real Results: What Sales Leaders Track
• [11:07] Transforming Team Habits: How to Block Time, Build Rituals, and Win More
• [13:47] Designing the Dream Sales Retreat: Maui, Reflection, and Real Connections
• [14:44] Connect with Howard: Unlock More Sales Wisdom

Guest Links:

• Website: https://www.howardwolpoffswc.com
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/howardwolpoff
• (For additional platforms or books, see show notes or guest’s website)

So many of us are thrown into the deep end of sales, armed with nothing but a phone, a quota, and a sense of dread. But what if everything you knew about selling—and leading—was wrong?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with veteran sales and leadership coach Howard Wolpoff, who reveals how he transforms struggling teams and uncertain professionals into confident, high-performing closers. From cold calls and door-to-door rejections to masterminding sales breakthroughs across industries, Howard’s stories and strategies will forever change the way you look at selling—and yourself.

Takeaways:

• Why most sales training fails—and what actually works to grow sales and confidence.
• The hidden reason companies “churn and burn” their salespeople (and how to break the cycle).
• How understanding personality unlocks rapport—and closes deals you never thought possible.
• The 15 ways to close a deal (and why most salespeople only know two).
• The power of mentorship: what it means to truly impact someone’s life—and how the best rewards might come years later.

Timestamps:

• 0:00 — “Thrown Into Sales: The Untold Truths” (Raw beginnings in sales, no training, and early challenges)
• 5:01 — “Breaking Through: From Cold Calls to Coaching” (Howard’s shift from uncertainty to helping others succeed)
• 9:09 — “Teaching, Mentorship & The Long Game” (The hidden power of teaching and an unforgettable story from the New York Mets)
• 12:00 — “The Confidence Gap: Inside Every Salesperson’s Mind” (Why even superstars struggle—and what to do about it)
• 14:18 — “Scripts, Humility, and the Secret to Connection” (Weaponizing preparation without losing authenticity)
• 15:09 — “When Salespeople Hit the Wall: Making Breakthroughs Happen” (Practical stories of real-world growth)
• 20:40 — “Scaling the Unscalable: The Mistake That Destroys Sales Teams” (Howard’s #1 blueprint mistake—revealed)

Guest Links:

Website: www.howardwolpoffSWC.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardwolpoff/

Could your next book be the spark for seven-figure success?

Meet Aurora Winter, bestselling author, publisher, and master of turning words into wealth, as she unpacks the secrets behind building authority, attracting premium clients, and multiplying income—all from the written word. In this episode, Aurora reveals actionable strategies—from “show me the money” mindset to leveraging books for brand-building, speaking gigs, and alternative revenue streams that most authors overlook.

With stories of legal thriller authors, dentists, and entrepreneurs, each insight builds on curiosity: What if your book isn’t just a calling card, but the gateway to your next million?

What you'll learn:

• Writing a book is just the beginning—clarity, branding, and monetization must be woven into your strategy from the start.

• Build and nurture your audience before launching your book to avoid its release into a “vacuum.”

• A published book opens doors: speaking, higher fees, media, partnerships, and more—your authority multiplies.

• Seven (and even eight) distinctive ways to monetize your message—beyond book sales—include speaking, merchandise, training/certification, and affiliate revenue.

• Independent publishing puts you in control—of your story, your brand, and your profits.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Welcome Back: Aurora Winter on Wealth-Building Books

• [00:41] “Show Me the Money”: Why Books Are Business Tools

• [02:00] Making Experts Famous—From Lawyers to Dentists

• [04:41] Building an Audience Before Publishing: Essential Steps

• [06:00] Turning Brand into Premium Pricing

• [11:52] Books as Gateways to Startups, Speaking, and Merchandising

• [15:00] The Free Book Funnel—How Upsells Generate 6 Figures

• [21:10] The Hidden 8th Strategy: Affiliate Income

• [22:39] Final Takeaways and Free Resources

Guest Links:

• Website: SamePagePublishing.com

• Book: Turn Words Into Wealth – free eBook and resources!

• Aurora’s Free Business Breakthrough Call: BookCall.biz

• Aurora’s Profile: AuroraWinter.com

• Socials: [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurorawinter/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/aurorawinterauthor/)

This episode is packed with actionable strategies and heart-stirring inspiration. Ready to let your story work for you? Dive in.

What if the path to real influence wasn't about shouting the loudest, but about mastering your story?

In this episode, best-selling author, publishing mentor, and entrepreneur Aurora Winter shares the powerful journey from childhood inspiration to helping leaders craft bestselling books and unforgettable brands.

With raw honesty and actionable wisdom, Aurora breaks down the costly mistakes most aspiring authors make, reveals the invisible structures behind magnetic stories, and offers a blueprint for moving from expert to authority—even if you doubt your story matters.

Learn from Aurora:

• Why most entrepreneurs fail at communicating their value, and how to finally monetize your message

• The secrets behind ghostwriting for the world’s top thought leaders

• How to turn testimonials into stories that convert fans into followers

• Battling imposter syndrome and shifting your focus to service

• Innovative ways to share your wisdom: from video books to bestsellers

**Timestamps:** 00:01 – The Spark: Aurora’s childhood dream and Silicon Valley DNA 02:45 – Why Entrepreneurs Fail at Messaging (and How to Fix It) 06:40 – Ghostwriting Exposed: What Actually Happens Behind the Scenes 10:55 – Authority Unlocked: How Clarifying Your Story Changes Everything 14:38 – The Power Structure: Making Any Story Unforgettable 18:20 – Battling Self-Doubt: Why Your Story Really Does Matter 22:13 – Humanity’s Code: Stories as a Blueprint for Life**Guest Links:**

• Website: Same Page Publishing

• LinkedIn: Aurora Winter

• Instagram: @aurorawinter

• Book: Turn Words Into Wealth

What you'll learn :

• Turn your expertise into authority with professional storytelling—don’t go it alone.

• Even global leaders rely on ghostwriters to craft and elevate their messages.

• A compelling testimonial is a ‘hero’s journey’—structure matters.

• Focusing on service, not self, defeats imposter syndrome and deepens impact.

• Experiment with new formats—video books, interviews, and emotional hooks—to stand out and genuinely connect.

Have you ever felt the itch to leave it all behind and create a life on your own terms?In today’s episode, Jerry Dugan reveals the honest, often messy truth behind walking away from a secure corporate role to chase a creative dream—becoming a full-time voiceover artist. From risking it all on gig platforms to navigating the loneliness of entrepreneurship and mastering the art of authentic storytelling, Jerry shares every raw milestone, failure, and hidden lesson.

Curiosity, hustle, and emotional grit: these are the cornerstones Jerry credits for lasting success. Whether you crave creative freedom, or simply wonder what it takes to get paid using your voice, Jerry’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention.

What You'll Learn :

• Why traditional careers can stifle creativity—and the turning point that sparked Jerry’s leap.

• The tactical steps to break into voiceover—without a safety net (or big budget).

• How to land your first client—even when everyone says you’re not “qualified.”

• Surviving rejection, client drama, and tough transitions: inside the emotional rollercoaster.

• The power of leadership skills—how corporate lessons become creative superpowers.

Timestamps:

• 0:02:00 The Leap: Jerry’s wake-up call from corporate to creative.

• 0:04:00 First Blood: The hustle to find gigs—Upwork, Fiverr, ACX, and getting paid the first time.

• 0:07:00 Client Chemistry: Navigating relationships, tricky feedback, and finding your “groove.”

• 0:12:00 A Day in the Life: Jerry’s exact daily routine as a full-time voiceover artist.

• 0:18:00 Brutal Truths: Rejection rates, authenticity, and the persistence required to win.

• 0:27:00 Leadership Rewired: Why old business skills are the secret edge in creative work.

• 0:35:00 Dreams & Impact: Jerry’s personal project wishes—and how to turn stories into legacies.

Guest Links:

• Website: jerryduganvoice.com

• Upwork, Fiverr, Voices.com profiles linked on website

How far would you go to reclaim your life?In this transformative, heart-on-sleeve interview, Jerry Dugan peels back the curtain on his bold escape from corporate leadership into the uncertain but exhilarating world of creative entrepreneurship. With raw honesty, Jerry shares the moment he realized success was a golden cage, how his family catalyzed his leap, and why reinventing yourself demands both courage and vulnerability. If you’ve ever questioned the path you’re on, this episode is for you.

What You'll Learn:

• The emotional toll of “golden handcuffs”—and the price of freedom

• How a single conversation at home can change your entire life trajectory

• Three mentors’ uncanny advice that pointed Jerry to his true calling

• The struggle to build a business from scratch (and why the right “why” matters)

• Powerful lessons on identity, letting go, and crafting a life on your terms

Timestamps:

• [0:00] Full Circle Moments: Jerry Returns—The Backstory Behind the Leap

• [2:00] “Put Yourself In a Prison”—The Real Cost of Corporate Success

• [7:45] Three Conversations That Changed Everything—Listening Between the Lines

• [10:00] Building ‘Beyond the Rut’: From Podcasting to Publishing

• [12:00] Burnout, Blessings, and Saying No to the Wrong “Yes”

• [15:30] The Uber Chapter: Reinventing, Recharging, and Rethinking What’s Next

• [20:00] Lessons from Dune & Beyond—Leadership, Identity, and Curiosity Unleashed

Guest Links:

• Website: https://beyondtherut.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrydugan/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerrydugan/

• Book: “Beyond the Rut” – https://amzn.to/yourbooklink

What if you could finally measure what really drives revenue—without cookies, guesswork, or silos?In this episode, Jeff Greenfield, the authority behind Provalytics, takes us on a riveting journey through the future of marketing measurement.

Get ready for a conversation that shatters the myths of digital attribution, revealing how data and AI can uncover the true impact of every marketing dollar—even in a world without third-party cookies. Jeff opens up about the emotional weight of uprooting the status quo and shares how “being less wrong” might be the most valuable marketing mindset of all.

What You'll Learn:

• The seismic shift from click-driven to impression-driven attribution

• Why legacy analytics are failing marketers (and how AI closes the gap)

• The real story behind multi-channel campaigns and the customer journey

• How to finally connect brand awareness to hard business results

• The one marketing metric that keeps CEOs and marketers up at night

Timestamps:

• [00:01] Welcome back, and why marketers are in crisis without cookies

• [03:30] AI-driven attribution: going backwards to find real answers

• [07:08] The full customer journey: from website to Amazon to everywhere

• [10:20] Breaking organizational silos—unifying finance, marketing, and agencies

• [14:13] Proving the value of brand-building: connecting impressions to revenue

• [16:52] The metric that changes everything: Time to Conversion

• [20:07] Jeff’s vision for the next 2–3 years in marketing measurement

Guest Links:

• Website: provalytics.com

• Additional resource: Provalytics Attribution Certification Course

Imagine discovering that the data guiding your marketing dollars is a lie.

On today’s episode, Junaid Ahmed unpacks a seismic shift in marketing attribution with Jeff Greenfield—CEO and founder of Provalytics, pioneer behind C3 Metrics, and a leader whose ideas are rewriting the rules in a world with no more cookies.

Jeff shares hard-won truths from his three-decade journey, exposing why most marketers are blind to what’s truly driving results—and how a privacy-first, AI-driven future is not just possible, but necessary. This is a must-listen for marketers, founders, and anyone chasing real ROI in a post-cookie world.

What You'll Learn:

• Marketing’s biggest myth: Why the numbers you trust are often wrong.

• The collapse of cookie-based tracking—and the rise of privacy-first measurement.

• Inside the walled gardens: How Amazon, Facebook, and Google obscure real impact.

• Impressions vs. clicks: The mindset shift every marketer must embrace.

• Why AI and machine learning are the keys to attribution’s future.

Timestamps:

• [00:01] The paradigm shift: Attribution in a privacy-first world

• [02:15] Covid, habit change, and the measurement “black hole”

• [03:02] The commission crisis: How Jeff discovered the problem

• [08:09] What broke traditional attribution & why impressions matter

• [13:02] A world without cookies: What marketers get wrong about ROI

• [17:42] Big lessons & mind flips from data-driven marketing

• [20:00] What’s next for marketers: The AI-driven future

Guest Links (please verify before publishing):

• Website: https://provalytics.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/provalytics

• C3 Metrics (Legacy): https://c3metrics.com

What does it really take to go from nothing to a thriving company—without a safety net?

Brian Clayton, CEO and cofounder of GreenPal, returns for a raw, curiosity-fueled conversation on the lonely reality of building, scaling, and letting go. Discover why delegation can kill a startup—or make it unstoppable, how bootstrapping turns founders into wild animals on the hunt, and which hidden traps you must dodge as you raise (or reject) funding.

Brian’s story is packed with lessons that will resonate with every founder, leader, and dreamer. This episode dives into why founders must wear every hat—until the moment they must let go. You’ll learn what separates a founder from a true CEO, how “having less” forges true innovation, and why sometimes the biggest breakthroughs happen when you’re forced to get scrappy.

What You'll Learn:

• Delegation is a double-edged sword—do it too soon or too late, and you’ll pay.

• Founders thrive when their backs are against the wall—even bootstrapping, out of necessity.

• Building an org chart early creates a roadmap for scalable growth.

• There is a big difference between being a founder and being a CEO—know the transition point.

• Real innovation is often born from limitation—not luxury or funding.

Timestamps & Labels

• 0:00:00 A No-Holds-Barred Welcome Back—Brian Clayton’s origin story, unfiltered.

• 0:01:00 The Delegation Trap—Why outsourcing can nearly kill your company.

• 0:03:30 Surviving the Trenches—From doing everything to building a real team.

• 0:05:36 Founder vs. CEO—The mindset shift every entrepreneur faces.

• 0:09:22 Bootstrapping vs. Funding—Why having less makes you more dangerous.

• 0:12:37 Innovation from Constraint—How limitations fuel creativity and drive.

• 0:15:10 If I Had to Start Over—The pain points ripe for disruptors in 2025.

Guest Links

• Website: [GreenPal](https://www.yourgreenpal.com/)

• LinkedIn: [Brian Clayton on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-clayton-a96b33214/)

• Instagram: [@brianmclayton](https://www.instagram.com/brianmclayton/)

• Book Mentioned: "The E Myth" by Michael Gerber

What if the secret to building a multi-million dollar business is hidden in door-to-door flyers, no shortcuts, and your personal cell number?

In this emotional and curiosity-driven conversation, Brian Clayton—CEO and co-founder of GreenPal—reveals the raw journey of turning an old-school lawn mowing hustle into a $30 million empire. Forget Silicon Valley fairytales. This is a masterclass in resilience, relentless customer obsession, and why most entrepreneurs focus on the wrong things.

Discover why Brian believes hand-to-hand selling and direct feedback are the lifeblood of any real startup—and learn the lessons he wishes he’d known before fighting for every customer. This episode will make you rethink growth, funding, and the true price of entrepreneurial success.

What You'll Learn:

• Bootstrapping isn’t just possible; it’s a superpower—if you focus on true customer needs.

• The best funding comes from happy customers, not investors.

• Scaling a company? Tackle it like a video game: one level at a time, and don’t worry about level ten until you master level six.

• Reliable service and speed matter more to users than being the cheapest option.

• Entrepreneurship is the ultimate personal development engine—more powerful than any book or classroom.

Timestamps:00:02 – Brian’s Origin Story: The Hustle Behind GreenPal02:00 – The Painful Truth About Early Growth (and Why No One Came)05:00 – Real Lessons from Hand-to-Hand Customer Combat09:00 – Why Brian Chose Bootstrapping Over VC Cash12:00 – The Moment He Knew It Would Scale15:00 – Direct Feedback, Star Ratings & Building for Users, Not Investors20:00 – Brian’s Resilience Hack: The “Never Give Up” RuleGuest Links:

• Website: https://www.yourgreenpal.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmclayton

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmclayton

What if the real secret to leading isn’t about titles, but invisible work behind the scenes?In this raw and revealing conversation, award-winning mentor and Navy veteran Enrique Acosta Gonzalez exposes how the world’s most authentic leaders are built in silence, not on stage. With emotional honesty and practical wisdom, Enrique shares how to overcome fear, prepare for your defining moment, and transform every setback into strength.

What You'll Learn:

• Leadership starts in the unseen: act today, lead tomorrow.

• The Triad Principle: balance material and spiritual leadership.

• Overcoming fear is crucial—small steps toward courage matter.

• Guide from your own “why,” not just external expectations.

• True legacy is made with selfless action and impact.

Timestamps 00:00 – A Navy Journey Transformed: Enrique’s origin story 02:00 – Triad Leadership: Spiritual and Tactical Secrets 04:00 – The Power of Leading Yourself—Before You Lead Others 08:15 – Why “Why” Changes Everything: Digging into personal motives 10:40 – Confronting Fear: How to know if you’re ready to lead 14:05 – The Possibility Practice: Imagining your future self 16:20 – Growing in the Shadows: Building a legacy that matters

Guest Links

• LinkedIn: [Connect with Enrique Acosta Gonzalez](https://www.linkedin.com/)

• Website: [Enrique’s Contact & Resources](https://www.enriqueacostagonzalez.com/) (edit with real link)

• Instagram: [@enriqueacostagonzalez](https://instagram.com/) (edit with real link)

• Book a Call: Via LinkedIn profile

Each episode stands alone as a true Diary of a CEO moment, challenging you to go deeper, think harder, and step up—quietly—until the world can’t help but notice.

What does it take to go from the shadows of the unknown to the spotlight of global recognition?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Enrique Augusta Gonzalez—CEO of Triad Leadership Solutions, retired Navy veteran, and six-time bestselling author—to uncover the raw truth behind leadership, legacy, and the courage to chase your dreams.

Enrique’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. From 26 years of service in the US Navy to building a thriving business and award-winning podcast, he reveals the mindset shifts, daily habits, and emotional battles that shape true leaders. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn setbacks into stepping stones and create impact that outlives you, this conversation is your blueprint.

What You'll Learn:

• The hidden cost of “playing it safe” with your dreams—and how to break free.

• Why legacy is built in the quiet moments, not just the spotlight.

• How Navy core values shaped Enrique’s leadership philosophy for life.

• The emotional rollercoaster of transitioning from military to entrepreneurship.

• Practical tools for developing the leader within—starting today.

Timestamps:

00:00 – From Unknown to Award-Winning: Enrique’s journey begins02:10 – 26 Years in the Navy: Core values that never fade05:30 – The Lost Feeling: Navigating life after service08:15 – Salary vs. Dreams: The moment Enrique chose legacy over comfort12:00 – Building Triad Leadership Solutions: The birth of a mission15:20 – Podcasting & Possibility: Why sharing your story matters18:45 – Legacy, Longing, and Leadership: Lessons from “Somewhere in Time”

Guest Links:

• Website: https://triadleadershipsolutions.com

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/enriqueaugustagonzalez

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/enriqueaugustagonzalez

• Book: https://www.amazon.com/author/enriqueaugustagonzalez

If you’re ready to step into your own influence and build a legacy that lasts, don’t miss this episode.

What if losing your dream job was the best thing that ever happened to you?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Kirk Gimenez, a two-time Emmy winner and the first Latino to anchor in English at ESPN, to uncover the untold story behind his rise, fall, and ultimate reinvention as the founder of sizzle TV. Kirk reveals how losing his authentic voice in mainstream media led him to create a platform that celebrates multicultural stories, positivity, and unapologetic representation.

Dive deep into Kirk’s journey of resilience, the power of staying true to your roots, and the mission to flood the world with uplifting stories. This conversation is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity, building a brand with purpose, and why the future of media belongs to those who dare to be different.

What You'll Learn:

• How Kirk became the first Latino to anchor in English at ESPN—and why it mattered.

• The pain of losing his authentic voice and the 20-year journey to reclaim it.

• Why sizzle TV is more than a platform: it’s a movement for multicultural, positive storytelling.

• The business case for authenticity and why brands must embrace multiculturalism.

• Kirk’s new mission: using AI mini-docs to amplify untold, uplifting stories at scale.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Power of Follow-Up: How Junaid and Kirk first connected

• 03:15 – Breaking Barriers at ESPN: Becoming the first Latino anchor in English

• 08:40 – Losing and Reclaiming Authenticity: The birth of sizzle TV

• 15:20 – Multiculturalism as a Superpower: Why 200%ers are the future

• 22:10 – The Broken State of Media—and Kirk’s plan to fix it with positivity

• 28:45 – AI Mini-Docs: Revolutionizing storytelling for nonprofits and brands

• 34:00 – Advice to His Younger Self: “Never let them take your Latino voice”

Guest Links:

• Website: https://www.sizzletv.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkgimenez/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirkgimenez/

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/kirkgimenez

What if you could rewire your brain to break free from trauma and step into a life of confidence, clarity, and calm?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Hilary Russo—certified havening practitioner, podcast host, and trauma healing expert—to uncover the science and soul behind emotional resilience. Hilary reveals the hidden mechanisms of the brain, shares powerful real-life transformations, and guides you through practical havening techniques that anyone can use.

Prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about trauma. This conversation is a masterclass in self-healing, packed with actionable insights, emotional breakthroughs, and the tools to start your own journey toward lasting change.

What You'll Learn:

• The four elements of trauma encoding and why your brain can’t tell past from present

• How havening rapidly rewires neural pathways for healing and resilience

• Real-world stories of overcoming fear and reclaiming safety—even on the world’s biggest stages

• The “AAA Effect”: Awareness, Allowance, and Alignment as the foundation for transformation

• Simple daily havening practices to calm your mind and build emotional strength

Timestamps:

• 0:01:05 Trauma Decoded: The Four Elements That Shape Your Brain

• 0:06:33 Why Your Brain Is Wired for Negativity—and How to Change It

• 0:08:38 From Opera Stage to Safe Space: A Grammy Winner’s Breakthrough

• 0:11:52 Havening 101: The Science and Practice of Self-Healing

• 0:14:19 Positive Mindset vs. Pleasant Distraction—What Really Works?

• 0:16:38 The AAA Effect: The First Step to Lasting Resilience

• 0:20:41 Who Needs Havening Most? Hilary’s Surprising Fictional Pick

Guest Links:

• Website: https://hilaryrusso.com

• Podcast: HIListically Speaking (https://hilaryrusso.com/podcast)

• Events & Trainings: https://hilaryrusso.com/events

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/hilaryrusso

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hilaryrusso

• Book (upcoming): “Hug It Out” (details on website)

This episode is your invitation to be kind to your mind, discover the power of havening, and start hacking your way to healing.

What if you could rewire your brain for resilience and joy?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Hilary Russo—one of only 50 certified havening trainers in the world, trauma-informed holistic practitioner, and host of the globally top-rated “Holistically Speaking” podcast. Hilary reveals the neuroscience behind self-healing, the transformative power of gratitude, and how her “Hug It Out” method can help you reclaim your mind’s safe space.

Discover how humor, understanding, and gratitude can become your daily tools for emotional well-being. Hilary’s journey is both deeply personal and universally inspiring—this conversation will change the way you think about healing, self-care, and the stories we tell ourselves.

What You'll Learn:

• The “Hug It Out” Method: How humor, understanding, and gratitude can transform your emotional landscape.

• Havening Techniques: The science-backed self-soothing practice that rewires your brain for safety and calm.

• Gratitude’s Power: Why two minutes of gratitude each morning can change your entire day.

• Music & Healing: How rhythm and song activate your vagus nerve and regulate emotions.

• Resilience in Adversity: Lessons from trauma, storytelling, and finding joy—even in the hardest moments.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 — Hilary Russo: The Journey to Healing and Resilience

• 02:10 — What Is Havening? The Science of Creating a Safe Mind

• 07:45 — The Hug It Out Method: Humor, Understanding, Gratitude

• 13:20 — Self-Healing vs. Self-Care: Starting with Gratitude

• 17:05 — Music, Rhythm, and Emotional Regulation

• 22:30 — Lessons from War Movies: Finding Strength in Adversity

• 28:15 — The Power of Storytelling: Big Fish, Grief, and Legacy

What if the only thing standing between you and a thriving, burnout-proof freelance business is a single mindset shift? In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Jason Willis Lee—medical translator, business strategist, and host of the Freelance Training podcast—to uncover the hidden frameworks that separate struggling freelancers from industry leaders.

From the power of lead magnets to the art of productizing your expertise, Jason shares the hard-won lessons and emotional turning points that fueled his evolution from service provider to sought-after thought leader. If you’re ready to attract better clients, earn more, and finally break free from the time-for-money trap, this conversation is your blueprint.

What You'll Learn:

• Discover why “standing out in a sea of sameness” is the #1 skill for freelancers—and how to do it.

• Learn the lead magnet strategies that build trust and fill your pipeline with high-quality clients.

• Find out how virtual assistants and automation can buy back your time and scale your business.

• Uncover the secrets to productizing your expertise and making the leap to six figures.

• Get Jason’s advice for building a resilient content machine that keeps working—even when you’re not.

Timestamps:

• 00:01 – Welcome & Jason’s Evolution: From translator to thought leader

• 00:42 – The #1 Mistake Freelancers Make (and how to fix it)

• 02:24 – Lead Magnets That Actually Work: Glossaries, cheat sheets, and more

• 05:07 – The Power of Teams: Why virtual assistants are a game-changer

• 05:41 – Packaging Your Expertise: Moving beyond time-for-money

• 08:13 – Automation & Newsletters: Building a business that runs itself

• 11:11 – What to Build First: Jason’s advice for stuck freelancers

Guest Links:

• Website: https://entrepreneurialtranslator.com

• LinkedIn: Search “Jason Willis Lee” or “Entrepreneurial Translator”

• Podcast: Freelance Training (available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts)

• Book Reference: “How to Find Modern Clients” (featured in episode)

• Instagram: (Not provided; recommend searching guest’s name)

If you want to go deeper, connect with Jason on LinkedIn or visit his website for more resources, courses, and his acclaimed podcast.

Step inside the mind of Jason Willis-Lee, an ITI certified medical translator and serial entrepreneur, who’s spent over 25 years navigating the shifting tides of business, burnout, and personal brand in a world flooded with AI and endless content.

With wisdom forged in Madrid and a career packed with reinvention, Jason reveals how freelancers can break through the noise, leverage their story, and create a business only they can build.

In this unmissable conversation, Jason and Junaid dive into the secrets of packaging your IP, building a magnetic personal brand, and why iteration— not perfection— is the real superpower in 2025. Whether you’re a solopreneur, creative, or future-proofing your income against the AI tide, this episode uncovers how to claim your authority, connect more deeply, and build demand for what only you can deliver.

What You'll Learn:

• Why personal branding is your uncopyable moat in business.

• How to transition from trading time for money to scalable impact.

• Lessons on balancing automation with authenticity and quality.

• The importance of rapid iteration over perfection for freelancers.

• How the best in the business—from Elon Musk to Hormozi—build demand and break out.

Timestamps:

• [0:00] Welcome & Rapid Introduction: Meet Jason Willis-Lee—translator, entrepreneur, and podcast host.

• [0:45] From Employee to Entrepreneur: Jason’s powerful pivot and 25 years of reinvention.

• [2:35] The Per-Hour Trap & Packaging IP: How to stop selling time and start selling transformation.

• [5:00] “Find More Clients” and the Supply-Demand Secret—building buzz like Elon Musk.

• [7:14] AI, Automation & Quality: Standing out when content is infinite.

• [12:28] Authority Through Authenticity: The personal brand strategy that never fails.

• [17:29] The “Perfection Trap”: Jason’s game-changing advice for every freelancer.

Guest Links:

• Website: https://www.jasonwillislee.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-willis-lee/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonwillislee/

• Book: “How to Find More Clients”