Hey friends, it's Wisdom here! In today’s episode, I sat down with Katharina Huang—author, traveler, and creator of the Veg Out Voyage Puzzle book series. We dove deep into her bold journey from Silicon Valley data scientist to self-employed creative, and how life changes (like her father’s stroke) reshaped her priorities. Katharina shared the real costs and fears of leaving the 9-to-5, the joy of designing a life around puzzles and travel, and the rollercoaster ride of self-publishing and online business. What I really hope you take away: it’s okay to pivot, to build something truly yours from scratch, and that mistakes are part of the process. Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—you can find momentum and meaning in ways that surprise you. Thanks for listening, and keep walking your own wisdom journey!

Connect with Katharina Huang

Website:https://vegoutvoyage.com/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Katharina's Background

01:33 Life in Silicon Valley and Career Path

04:22 Burnout and Realizations Post-Pandemic

07:21 Deciding to Leave Tech 09:33 Family and Friends’ Reactions

10:37 Impact of Her Father’s Stroke

17:51 Life After Quitting: Plans and Self-Care

19:46 Creating Travel Puzzle Game Books

22:03 Lessons from Self-Publishing

24:22 Tech Skills: Data Science Meets E-commerce

26:32 Platform Choices: WordPress vs Shopify

29:29 Overcoming Challenges of Solopreneurship

33:24 Explaining Her Work for All Ages

35:34 Surprises as a Solo Creator

37:41 Marketing Insights and Social Media

40:30 Newsletter and Building Community

43:10 Practical Newsletter and Sales Tips

44:39 Measuring Website Traffic and Ads

46:41 Podcasting and Audience Building

47:46 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! Today I sat down with the amazing Dr. Portia Preston to get real about what happens when hustle culture starts costing us more than it gives. We dug into her journey—how burnout and chronic illness forced her to rethink what success should actually look like, and the powerful concept of “shame free wellness.” We talked about why it’s so hard to let go of the “shoulds” society plants in our heads, how the SANE cycle can help us check in with ourselves, and why thriving means learning to integrate both struggle and rest into our lives. If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking a break, or wondered how to balance ambition with being kind to yourself, this episode’s for you. My hope is you walk away knowing your worth isn’t tied to your output—and that it’s absolutely okay to rest.

Connect with Dr Portia Preston

Website:https://portiapreston.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/portiapreston/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:14 The Cost of Hustle: Dr. Portia Preston’s Story
02:06 Success and Chronic Illness: Personal Impact
03:19 Stress, Shame, and Wellness in Professional Life
04:06 Defining Shame-Free Wellness
05:11 Why Shame Gets Attached to Wellness
06:11 The “Shoulds” Behind Hustle Culture
07:15 Tying Worth to Output: Entrepreneur Perspectives
08:16 Longevity vs. Short-Term Hustle
09:11 Rewriting the Cultural Narrative Around Grind
10:29 Growing Up Hustling: Culture and Survival
10:39 The SANE Cycle: Inspiration and Purpose
11:05 The SANE Cycle: Four Steps Explained
12:47 Real-Life Example of SANE Cycle in Action
14:17 Normalizing Rest and Cultural Reflections
15:10 Wisdom Okonkwo: Hustle & Rest in His Culture
17:01 Imposed Hustle and the Shame Narrative
18:31 Getting Stuck: Insanity vs. Change
19:15 Accepting Reality and Context
19:36 The Power of Asking “Why”
20:17 Why Medicine? Prestige and True Motivation
23:19 Helping People Beyond Labels and Careers
24:47 Wellness, Identity, and Shared Humanity
25:20 Understanding Flow: Sustainable Practices
26:35 Balancing Work, Deadlines, and Flow
28:07 Messy Lives and Authenticity: Behind the Scenes
29:50 Building Your Life or Your Job
30:49 Prioritizing Well-Being Over Achievements
32:24 Letting Go: Protecting Peace
33:24 Struggles, Stigma, and Representation
34:45 Suffering vs. Struggling: No Award for Pain
36:42 Learned Helplessness and Mindset
37:47 Living with AuDHD: Work and Leadership
40:50 Thriving Through Integration
42:13 Burnout: Where to Start—Hustle, Flow, or Let Go?
44:03 Burnout Beyond Work: Systems and Survival
46:36 Final Thoughts on Ambition and Wellness
47:41 Book Details, Resources, and How to Connect
48:55 Closing Remarks and Next Steps

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Pete A. Turner—a former combat spy turned powerhouse podcaster and media leader. We kept it real about what it actually takes to succeed in this online business world, from building trust and mastering communication to the not-so-glamorous (but vital!) consistency behind the scenes. Pete shared stories from both the battlefield and the podcast studio, and we got into the nitty-gritty of turning conversations into opportunities. We talked about embracing failure, why networking is your secret weapon, and how just being genuinely interested in people opens doors you never expected. My hope for you is that you walk away inspired to take action, keep learning, and trust that the little things you do every day will eventually lead to something incredible. Thanks for joining me on this journey—let’s keep building together!

Connect with Pete A. TurnerYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/peteaturner

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteaturner/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Wisdom Journey & Introduction to Pete A. Turner

01:50 Podcasting Schedules, Flexibility, and Productivity Lessons

03:04 Handling Busy Lives and Managing Commitments

04:14 Approaches to Interviewing Repeat Guests

05:27 Shifting the Focus: Making the Guest Interesting

06:12 Is Podcasting a Full-Time Gig?

07:50 Monetizing the Podcast and Building a Media Brand 09:21 Skill Levels, Getting Good, and Charging for Value

10:15 Dreams, Work Ethic, and Doing the Hard Work

12:14 Value, Relationships, and Unexpected Opportunities 13:38 Learning From Conversations & The Power of Consistency

15:16 Turning Podcasting Into a Real Full-Time Business

16:48 Wealth Beyond Money: Connections and Fulfillment 18:22 Building and Maintaining a Podcast Network

19:52 The Importance of Small, Genuine Interactions

20:43 How People Remember You & Lasting Impressions 21:46 Spy Skills, Observation, and Control in Conversations 22:33 The Art of Interviewing: Guiding Conversations

23:43 Managing Interview Questions and Guest Types

25:44 Adapting Questions and Reading the Room 26:13 The Power of Silence and Letting Guests Unfold 28:08 When You’re the Guest: Switching Roles On and Off 29:04 Types of Challenging Podcast Guests 31:02 Making Each Guest Shine: Adapting as a Host

33:30 Getting Guests Off Script & Advanced Interviewing 35:06 How Do You Describe What You Do? 37:09 Embracing Silence and Improving as a Podcaster

38:44 Applying Podcasting Skills to Everyday Life

43:01 The Impact of Listening: Making People Feel Heard 44:02 Guest Outreach: Getting Great Podcast Guests

46:38 Being Interested in Others and Becoming Interesting 48:03 Traveling and Podcasting Remotely

49:40 Getting Amazing Stories vs. Celebrity Guests

51:11 Crafting Irresistible Guest Invitations

53:10 Reflecting on an Off-the-Script Conversation & Closing Remarks

Hey friends, it's Wisdom Okonkwo here! In today’s episode, I sat down with CJ Powers, a communication strategist who’s lived at the intersection of creativity and AI for over 12 years. We peeled back the curtain on how AI can actually help us become more irreplaceably human—not less. CJ shared his powerful Three Cs framework: Communication, Connection, and Collaboration, and we dug into practical examples—from streamlining massive workflows to making your daily routine smoother and more meaningful. We also talked about why soft skills and genuine empathy will always set us apart, no matter how smart machines get. My hope for you after listening? That you’ll feel inspired, less overwhelmed by all the AI buzz, and ready to leverage these tools to amplify your own unique strengths. Let’s keep building, learning, and showing the world what only humans can do!

Connect with Cj PowersWebsite:https://cjpowers.info

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Connect

00:00 Welcome to Wisdom Journey & Guest Introduction

01:11 CJ Powers' Journey Into AI

02:11 Overcoming AI Fears and Seeing AI as a Tool

03:31 What It Means to Be Irreplaceably Human

05:20 The Three Cs Framework: Communication, Connection, Collaboration

08:03 Deep Dive into Communication: Clarify, Simplify, Amplify

09:45 Deep Dive into Connection: Engage, Relate, Build Relationships

14:40 Deep Dive into Collaboration: Align, Act, Achieve

17:56 The Power of the Three Cs in an AI World

20:30 Practical Ways to Leverage AI for Efficiency

26:21 Behind the Scenes: Building Automation for a Global Company

31:13 When to Use AI Tools, Agents, or Automation

33:43 Real-World Example: Automating a Scholarship Blog

37:48 Advice for Overcoming AI Overwhelm

39:28 Where to Find CJ Powers Online

40:22 Episode Wrap-Up and Listener Resources

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In today’s episode, I sat down with Steven Donaldson, branding pro and co-founder of Radiant Brands, to dig deep into what really sets a business apart—clarity of positioning. We tackled the challenge of defining who you serve, what pain you solve, and how to express your unique promise—all on a single page (yes, it’s possible!). Steven shared some eye-opening insights from working with giants like Apple and HP, and we talked about how branding is more about authentic connection than pushing sales. We explored the pitfalls of overcomplicating your message and why testing, simplifying, and listening to your customers is gold. If you’re building an online business, I hope this episode nudges you to clarify your brand, connect meaningfully, and stand out in our crowded digital world. Let’s keep building brands people truly love!

Connect with Steven DonaldsonWebsite:https://radiantbrands.com/

Twitter:https://x.com/RadiantBrands

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/radiantbrands/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:25 The Power of Brand Clarity

01:20 Welcome Steven Donaldson and Brand Clarity Lesson

02:06 The Challenge of Copycats and Staying Unique

02:36 Building Adaptability and Customer Relationships

03:20 Defining Your Customer and Unique Promise

03:43 Foundations of Brand Positioning

04:19 Understanding the Real Product You Sell

05:03 Simplifying Your Brand on One Page

05:24 Key Components of a Clear Brand Statement

06:32 The Myth of Business Complexity vs. Clarity

07:24 Why Most Owners Can't Simplify Their Business

08:20 Communicating Clearly—Not Just Cleverly

09:11 Losing the Jargon: Explaining Value Simply

10:01 Brand Connection Through Customer Experience

11:09 How to Build Parasocial Relationships and Loyalty

12:15 Announcements and Newsletter Invitation

12:43 Common Mistakes Connecting With Customers

12:56 Cracker Barrel Rebrand Case Study

14:17 Integrating Connection Into the Core of Business

15:42 Intro to Design Thinking in Branding

15:59 What is Design Thinking for Brands?

17:27 Design Thinking Case Study: Pet Food Express

19:08 Staying Consistent Without Being Static

20:01 Kettle Chips: Consistency and Innovation Example

22:05 Preventing Rebrand Backfire: Methodology and Examples

24:48 AI, Storytelling, and Authenticity in Branding

25:56 The Value of Brand Story—Truth vs. Manipulation

26:43 How Radiant Brands Uses AI

28:06 Action Steps for Online Businesses Starting Out

29:23 Standing Out in a Saturated Market

30:23 The Importance of Testing and Learning From Customers

31:43 Closing and How to Connect With Radiant Brands

32:43 Outro and Newsletter Reminder

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! Today on Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Shane Perry—someone who truly knows what it takes to break out of your comfort zone and crush those big goals. We dove into the real reasons so many of us get stuck, the power of writing goals down, and why 90-day success cycles can completely shift your results. Shane dropped gems on why disruption is part of the process and how we can actually prepare for it (instead of letting it knock us off course!). We also talked through dealing with those sneaky middle class mentalities that hold us back, and how to identify the habits sabotaging your dreams. My hope? You walk away ready to set real, specific goals, embrace the tough parts, and realize you’re not alone on this journey. You’ve got the tools—now let’s go disrupt those limitations together!

Connect with Shane PerryWebsite:https://www.disruption-factor.com/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Purpose

00:28 Introducing Shane Perry and Disruption Factor

01:13 Shane Perry’s Entrepreneurial Journey and Mindset Shift

03:08 Personal Loss and Founding Disruption Factor

04:13 Why 92% Don’t Achieve Their Goals

05:17 The Five Areas of Life Goals

07:09 Understanding Recreational Goals

08:26 Cultivating Goals and Creating Action Plans

10:12 What Makes a Good Action Plan

12:02 Comfort Zones and the Disruption Factor

14:13 The Reality of Disruption and Goal Achievement

17:31 Preparing for Disruption and Mental Strategies

21:54 Negative Motivation and Reminding Yourself Why

24:39 90-Day Goal Cycle Explained

27:46 Expanding Your Comfort Zone

29:10 Identifying and Overcoming Limiting Character Traits

31:59 Breaking Free from Middle Class Mentality

34:32 How Society Shapes Our Approach to Success

37:26 How to Get Started with Disruption Factor

38:33 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

Hey friends, Wisdom here! Today I brought on Joe Kavanagh—a business coach with over 35 years of sales and marketing experience, and honestly, one of the most genuine, insightful communicators I’ve ever met. We dove deep into why all business is about relationships, why listening to “relate” (not just respond) can transform your success, and how joy and emotional intelligence are true business superpowers. Joe shared powerful stories from his own journey—moments when dropping the ego, embracing vulnerability, and really understanding people changed everything. I hope you walk away inspired to lead with heart, focus on genuine connection, and find more joy in your journey. Remember: it’s not just about the numbers, it’s always a people game. Thanks for tuning in!

Connect with Joe KavanaghLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joekavanagh/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

00:26 Joe Kavanagh’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings

04:01 Finding Fulfillment and the Shift to Coaching

07:26 Becoming Authentic: The Power of Self-Discovery

09:00 Listening to Relate vs. Respond in Sales

10:14 Business is Relationships: Stories from Real Estate

14:14 Personal Problems as Business Challenges

17:19 Evolution of Selling: From Numbers Game to People Game

19:23 The Role of Personality in Sales Success

21:19 Coaching Breakthroughs: The Power of Feeling Understood

24:44 Bringing Joy and Energy into Business

27:05 Mindset Shifts for Ease in Growth

29:36 Leaving Ego at the Door: Lessons from Loss

34:35 Reading People’s Personality Codes in Real Life

46:00 The B.A.N.K. System Explained

50:20 Final Advice for Entrepreneurs

51:08 How to Connect with Joe Kavanagh

52:57 Closing Remarks and Takeaways

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In this episode of Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Tim Thomas, a former Special Forces command duo turned sleep strategist and founder of Breathwork in Bed. We dove deep into why sleep is the most underrated business tool out there—and why burnout is not a badge of honor, but a biology problem we can fix. Tim shared how fatigue silently kills productivity, the real cost of poor sleep, and practical ways to track and invest in your energy just like you would profits. We also got hands-on with powerful breathwork techniques you can use right away to reset, relax, and reclaim your best self. I hope you leave this episode inspired to prioritize rest, recharge your body and mind, and realize that peak performance starts with a good night’s sleep. Let’s keep building, but remember—rest is part of the journey!

Connect with Tim ThomasWebsite:https://breathworkinbed.com/

Twitter:https://x.com/crazydomains

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:23 Tim Thomas Joins: The Cost of Poor Sleep in Business

04:14 Why Burnout Is Normalized in Business

04:56 Tracking Energy Like KPIs

06:10 Becoming an Energetic Millionaire

07:03 The ROI of Rest on Productivity & Innovation

10:13 Real-Life Transformation: The Power of Rest

12:46 Military Insights: Sleep Deprivation as a Weapon

13:42 Parallels Between Elite Military and Business Leadership

15:17 The “Peaceful Sleep” Quote & Its Irony

17:16 What Is Breathwork? How It Impacts Business & Life

21:05 Practical Breathwork: Shifting Your State

22:29 Centered vs. Off-centered Leadership

23:07 Guided Breathwork Experience

27:32 Integrating Breathwork: Complete Reset

30:48 Breathwork in Bed App and Free Resources

33:21 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In today’s episode of Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Matthew Fornaro, a business law pro, to unpack the legal side of entrepreneurship—the part so many of us ignore until it’s a problem. We talked about the biggest legal mistakes new business owners make, why you should “get legal” before you even launch, what makes a good contract, and how crucial intellectual property is (especially for us creators). Matthew shared real-world stories—wins and cautionary tales—and gave practical steps for protecting yourself and your business from day one. My hope? After listening, you’ll feel empowered to take those legal steps now, not later, so your business can grow on a solid foundation. Legal stuff might not be flashy, but trust me, it’s how you keep your dreams safe. Thanks for tuning in!

Connect with Matthew FornaroWebsite:https://fornarolegal.com/

Twitter:https://x.com/FornaroLegal

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewfornaro/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:25 Meet Matthew Fornaro: Business Law Attorney & Mentor

01:13 Common Legal Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make

01:51 Essential Legal Documents for New Businesses

02:51 When to Get Legal: Timing for Entrepreneurs

03:10 What Makes a Good Contract

03:57 Contracts and Dispute Resolution

04:26 Podcast Guest Release Contracts

05:07 Importance of Intellectual Property Protection

05:56 What Is Intellectual Property?

06:25 Trademarking: US vs. International

07:44 Red Flags in Contracts

09:06 Reducing Lawsuit Risks as a Business Owner

09:39 DIY vs. Consulting a Lawyer

11:14 Costly Legal Oversight Example

12:28 Evolving Legal Structure as You Scale

13:45 Role of Attorneys and Accountants Together

15:38 AI Tools in Legal and Business Settings

17:16 The Value of Due Diligence Before Signing

18:36 Budgeting for Legal Assistance

19:24 Success Story: Legal Diligence Pays Off

21:28 Key Legal Advice for Online Content Creators

22:38 Connect with Matthew Fornaro

23:18 Closing Remarks and Resources

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In this episode, I sat down with Derrick Van Mell, a true advocate for better management and ethical leadership. We dove deep into why everyone deserves a boss who helps them feel safe, appreciated, and proud—and how powerful that is for any team or workplace. Derrick shared stories from his own career (yep, including what it’s like to have a bad boss!) and broke down why ethics and competence should always go hand-in-hand. We also talked about the difference between managers and leaders, how management can be a genuine calling, and simple, practical ways to run better meetings that actually matter. My hope is that you finish this episode inspired to raise your leadership game, treat your power with care, and build a culture where everyone thrives. Let’s keep growing together!

Connect with Derrick Van MellLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickvanmell/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:18 The Belief: Everyone Deserves a Good Boss

02:13 Contrasting Good and Bad Bosses

02:56 Defining Bad Bosses and Their Impact

03:34 The Core Difference: Putting Others First

03:56 Founding the Center for Management Terms and Practices

04:48 The Need for Universal Management Standards

05:24 The Journey to Creating Standards

06:27 The Benefits and Adoption of Standards

07:16 Real Stories That Validated the Mission

08:02 Ethics and Competence: The Twin Pillars of Leadership

09:21 How Ethics and Competence Connect in Practice

09:43 Clarifying Manager, Management, Leader, and Leadership

10:31 Defining Manager vs. Leader

11:35 The Confusion of Management Titles Globally

12:37 Management as a Calling, Not Just a Job

13:59 Stories Illustrating Leadership as a Calling

16:13 The Pledge of Managerial Power

17:37 Ethics of Power and Influence in Management

18:41 Ethical Use of Power and Information in the Digital Age

20:25 The Four Questions for Using Power Ethically

20:47 Ethics of Information, Honesty, and Trust

21:55 Sharing Information Transparently in Business

23:31 The Value of Honest Communication for Trust

24:46 Influence vs. Manipulation as a Leader

25:51 Listening and Feedback in Leadership Communication

28:08 Clarifying Communication Through Active Listening

29:28 How to Run Focused, Productive Meetings

30:15 Types and Goals of Business Meetings

31:42 Practical Steps for Great Meetings and Participation

33:24 The Quarter Page Meeting Planner Tool

34:02 Preparing Participants for Effective Meetings

35:32 Advice for Young Managers in the Digital Age

37:04 Making Purpose and Human Connection a Priority

39:21 Closing Thoughts and Resource Links

41:25 Final Thanks and Episode Wrap-Up

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom here! In this episode, I sat down with Russell Van Brocklen, a dyslexia researcher whose unique approach turns writing struggles into massive breakthroughs—even helping students jump 7-8 grade levels in just a year. But this isn’t just about classrooms. We explored how his method can help us—creators and entrepreneurs—break through our own barriers, find our unique “secret sauce,” and communicate with more impact online.

Russell Van Brocklen walked me through uncovering my true motivation (spoiler: it’s all about inspiring awakening), the fears that hold us back, and practical ways to overcome those hurdles—using both mindset shifts and AI tools like ChatGPT. If you’ve ever felt stuck, worried you needed “more information,” or doubted you could stand out, this episode’s for you. I hope you come away realizing it’s messy, it takes action—but your voice truly matters.

Connect with Russell Van BrocklenWebsite:https://dyslexiaclasses.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/dyslexia-classes/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Wisdom Journey

00:25 Introducing Russell Van Brocklen and the Power of Word Analysis

00:55 The Breakthrough Moment in Dyslexia Research

02:27 Exploring Dyslexic and Non-Dyslexic Brain Activity

03:07 Applying Universal Themes to Movie Reviews

04:28 Shawshank Redemption as an Example of Universal Theme

05:07 Finding Your Unique Angle—Inspiration vs. Outcome

06:13 Digging Into the Core Reason for the Podcast

07:35 Turning "Inspiration" Into a Universal Theme

09:01 Why Inspiration Matters and the Power of Possibility

10:32 Using AI to Clarify Your Universal Theme

12:40 The Process of Pinpointing Your Podcast’s Identity

14:09 Identifying the Ultimate Villain Blocking Your Progress

16:22 Overcoming Excuses and Lack of Information

18:41 Crafting Your Unique Story Sentence

20:22 Realizing Fear as the True Obstacle

22:39 Social Media Strategies and Using AI Tools for Content

24:41 Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Strong Online Content

25:58 Building Confidence—Lessons from Dyslexia Success Stories

28:25 Maximizing AI for Content Creation Efficiency

31:01 Where to Learn More: DyslexiaClasses.com and Free Resources

32:29 Masterclass Reflections and Key Takeaways

34:44 The Impact of Russell’s Research & Staying Connected

35:23 Closing Thoughts, Clarity, and Action Steps

36:04 Wrap-Up and Call to Subscribe & Share

Hey friends, it’s Wisdom Okonkwo here! In today’s episode, I sat down with Ryan McLellan—a coach, entrepreneur, and marketer with 18 years of hands-on experience and a seriously inspiring story. We dived deep into the realities of building nine different businesses, the power of mindset in business success, and how emotional alignment makes or breaks your brand. Ryan opened up about self-doubt, overthinking, and those moments when you just have to take bold action—even if it’s scary. We talked about practical ways to shift limiting beliefs, move from motivation to momentum, and stop feeling invisible online. If you’re juggling ideas, craving clarity, or simply need a bit of courage to get going, this one’s for you. My hope is you walk away remembering: baby steps count, mindset matters—and yes, loving yourself is a serious business strategy. Keep building, and keep believing!

Connect with Ryan McClellan

Website:https://www.valiancecoach.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/livecoachchat1

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom Journey and Guest Ryan McLellan

00:27 Ryan McLellan’s Story: From High School Dropout to Entrepreneur

01:10 Discovering the Power of Self-Learning and Coaching

03:01 Lessons Learned from Launching Nine Businesses

04:23 How Marketing and Life Coaching Intersect

07:15 The Role of Mindset in Business and Marketing Decisions

11:10 Moving from Motivation to Consistent Momentum

14:18 Stopping Overthinking and Starting Clear Execution

17:51 Breaking Through Feeling Invisible Online

21:37 Why Self-Doubt Plagues Talented Creators

23:12 Practical Ways to Reprogram Limiting Beliefs

26:08 Building Emotional Alignment in Business and Marketing

29:19 Clarifying Your Niche When You Feel You Can Help Everyone

33:24 Why Loving Yourself is a Business Strategy

36:43 Ryan’s Boldest Business Decision and the Lessons Learned

39:09 Final Advice for Entrepreneurs: Persistence and Lean Experimentation

42:12 Where to Connect with Ryan McLellan and Closing Remarks

Hey everyone, it’s Wisdom here! In today’s episode, I sat down with Jeremy Shapiro—entrepreneur, business growth expert, and creator of Your Business Growth Playbook. We went deep into what it truly means to build a business that gives you freedom, not just more work. Jeremy shared how so many entrepreneurs (me included!) fall into the hustle trap, creating glorified jobs for ourselves instead of real businesses that can grow and run without us. We talked about key strategies like raising prices, building recurring revenue, setting up systems, and designing a business you can eventually step back from—or even sell! My hope is that you leave this episode inspired to make those mental shifts, take action on your big ideas, and start working ON your business, not just IN it. Thanks for being on this journey with me!

Connect with Jeremy Shapiro

Website:https://www.jeremyshapiro.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyshapiro/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom Journey & Guest Jeremy Shapiro

01:13 Jeremy’s Entrepreneurial Beginnings

01:58 Realizations: Escaping the ‘High Paying Job’ Trap

03:03 The Challenge of Burnout and Finding Freedom

04:44 Early Failures, Turning Points & Lessons Learned

06:56 Inspiration for Creating the Business Growth Playbook

09:17 The Three Core Pillars of the Playbook: FA & Q

12:12 Raising Prices as an Actionable Profit Lever

12:43 Outgrowing Hustle: Redefining Business Success

14:26 Why Entrepreneurs Get Stuck Working ‘In’ the Business

16:23 Scaling as a Solopreneur & the Creator Dilemma

19:28 Building a Sellable Media Business

22:47 Up the Supply Chain: Lessons from Zingerman’s

25:33 The Difference Between Operator and Owner

30:29 Moving from Managing People to Systems

31:43 SOPs: Documenting and Delegating for Growth

34:38 Defining Success and Giving Valuable Feedback

38:43 High Impact Levers to Grow Revenue (Continuity)

39:13 Recurring Revenue Examples & Implementation

42:46 Building Businesses That Run Without You

44:11 Implementation: Turning Ideas Into Action

48:53 One Piece of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs

53:32 Where to Find Jeremy’s Book & Closing Remarks

Hey friends, Wisdom here! In this episode, I sat down with Ashwin Madhavan, co-founder and CEO of vidboard AI, and we got real about the wild world of AI-powered video creation. From Ashwin’s journey bootstrapping and scaling his startup, to swapping stories about making things work with limited resources, we dove into how technology is changing online business, course creation, and content marketing. We talked about being scrappy without chasing endless features, why video is the future of communication, and the realities (and hype!) around AI tools today. My hope for you is that you walk away inspired to try new tech, but also grounded—knowing that simple solutions can have huge impact. If you’re building something, remember: work with what you have, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to start small. Thanks for being on this wisdom journey with me!

Connect with Ashwin MadhavanWebsite:https://zaptovid.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwin-madhavanI’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom Journey & Ashwin Madhavan

01:12 Ashwin’s Path from Online Education to AI Video

04:04 Bootstrapping and Pivoting During the Pandemic

05:05 The First Vidboard Prototype and Product Validation

06:48 Validating Demand and Building with Constraints

08:12 Funding Challenges and Product Evolution

10:09 Future of Video Communication: User Expectations & Reality

16:57 Redefining Video Creation: Lifetime Deals and Business Models

20:02 Economics Behind Lifetime Deals at Vidboard

25:45 Global Reach and African Market Insights

28:21 Industry Realities: Hype vs. Actual Progress in AI

29:01 Getting Started with AI Video Tools for Entrepreneurs

30:49 How Vidboard Works for Content Creation

34:23 Using Voice Cloning with Vidboard

35:05 Global Founder Mindsets: India vs. West

36:58 Bureaucratic Challenges for Entrepreneurs

40:58 Lessons from Systemic and Historical Roadblocks

42:09 Vidboard’s Next Steps and Personal Ventures

44:20 Closing Thoughts & Black Friday Promo Details

46:29 Listener Action Steps and Farewell

In today’s episode of Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Manuj Aggarwal, a global AI thought leader whose journey from earning $2 a day to advising Fortune 500s seriously blew my mind. We talked about the real power of AI—far beyond just writing snappy emails—and why it’s creating the biggest wealth transfer in history. Manuj shared how entrepreneurs don’t have to be tech wizards to harness AI for scaling, personalization, and exponential growth. We explored how mindset and self-awareness are at the core of building an impactful business, and why understanding your “why” matters more than ever. I hope you walk away from this one feeling inspired to clarify your goals, focus on solving real problems, and tap into AI’s potential—without getting lost in the hype. Remember: the future is here, and it’s yours to shape!

Connect with Manuj Aggarwal

Website:https://manujaggarwal.com/

Twitter:https://x.com/manujagro

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/manujaggarwal/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wisdom Journey & Guest Manuj Aggarwal

01:00 Manuj’s Journey: From $2 a Day to Canada

01:53 Navigating Fear and Bold Action Amid Dot-Com Bust

02:39 Misunderstandings About AI in Entrepreneurship

03:39 How Non-Tech Entrepreneurs Can Start With AI

05:20 AI & Human Creativity: Path to Exponential Growth

06:12 AI and the Biggest Wealth Transfer in History

06:56 New Opportunities Created by AI

07:52 Avoiding AI Hype: Focus on Solving Real Problems

09:54 Fastest Path to AI-Era Millionaire

11:12 First Step for Entrepreneurs: Solve Problems, Not Just Use Tools

12:12 Connecting Neuroscience, Meditation, and AI in Business

13:31 The Power of Mindset in Tech-Driven Entrepreneurship

14:45 Mindset Practice That Redirected Manuj’s Life

15:39 Relationships and Their Impact on Success

16:19 Neurodiversity & Self-Awareness as a Superpower

17:46 Scenario: Growing $500 to $5,000/Month With AI

19:28 Fortune 500 AI Strategies Small Entrepreneurs Can Copy

21:16 Blind Spots That Limit Scaling for Entrepreneurs

22:03 Advice for Entrepreneurs Feeling Lost or Left Behind

23:01 How to Connect With Manuj Aggarwal & Final Thoughts

23:50 Outro and Newsletter Invitation

Today I sat down with Todd Hagopian, the legendary “Stagnation Assassin,” and we dove deep into what it really means to feel stuck—whether you’re running a business, building your brand, or just juggling too many ideas. Todd shared his unique HUD system and tons of practical strategies for breaking out of stagnation, focusing your energy, and making every minute count. We talked about ranking your to-do list, smashing old industry assumptions, and how sometimes the most powerful move is subtracting distractions—not just adding more tasks. My hope is that, after listening, you’ll feel inspired to take action: jot down everything crowding your mind, prioritize what truly matters, and give yourself permission to shelve the rest. You’re not alone on this journey! Let’s keep growing, experimenting, and moving forward—one focused step at a time.

Connect with Todd Hagopian

Website:https://toddhagopian.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddhagopian/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:29 The Birth of the "Stagnation Assassin"

03:35 Defining Stagnation and Its Dangers

04:49 Misconceptions About Being Stuck and the 80/20 Principle

06:18 The HUD System and Its Frameworks

10:17 Deep Dive: The 80/20 Matrix for Creators and Founders

14:17 Changing Mindset to Defeat Stagnation—Case Studies

19:22 Early Signs of Stagnation for Creators and Business Owners

22:03 When Your Best Tasks Aren't on Your Calendar

25:00 From Idea Overwhelm to Strategic Action

29:53 Maximizing Output: Repurposing Content Across Platforms

33:19 Delegating, Outsourcing, and Team Strengths

35:44 Overcoming Overwhelm: Prioritization and the Top Five List

38:20 Poor People Add, Rich People Multiply, Billionaires Subtract

40:52 Decision-Making Frameworks: Impact, Urgency, and Reversibility

43:03 Todd's Book Trilogy & Free Resources

44:52 Key Takeaways and Community

46:39 Sign Off and Next Steps

In today’s episode, I sat down with Sebastien Fenelon—a true innovator building at the intersection of AI, privacy, and purpose. We talked about how Sebastien’s journey from Haiti to New York shaped his resilient approach to technology, and why empowering people (not just corporations) is at the heart of his work. He broke down what edge AI is, why keeping our data local really matters, and how even small businesses and creators can start using privacy-first AI tools today. My hope is that you leave this episode inspired to rethink how technology can serve you—while protecting what matters most. If you’re curious about practical, ethical AI and the future of online entrepreneurship, this is one you don’t want to miss!

Connect with Sebastien Fenelon

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastien-fenelon/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:49 Sebastien Fenelon: Journey from Haiti to Tech

02:35 Early Projects and Building Resilience

05:16 Discovering AI as a Life Mission

07:02 Impactful and Private AI Systems

08:35 Purpose-Driven Innovation and Vision

10:30 Overcoming Obstacles and Building for Resilience

12:24 Why Edge AI and Local Models Matter

16:06 Agentic AI for Creators and Small Businesses

18:50 SLMs vs LLMs Explained

24:31 Starting with Privacy-First Local AI Tools

27:55 Sebastien’s Startups and Empowerment Platforms

31:28 Closing and Resources

In today’s episode, I sat down with the amazing Addie Ott—designer, author, and all-around kind soul—to dive deep into building an authentic visual identity for your brand or business. We unpacked how design is so much more than logos and colors; it’s about storytelling, service, and staying rooted in faith and purpose, even as trends come and go. Addie Ott shared practical tips for choosing colors and layouts that are both flexible and accessible, thoughts on balancing excellence and grace, and honest reflections about overcoming creative blocks (hint: sometimes you just need to step outside or reconnect with your “why”). I hope after listening, you’ll feel encouraged to create visuals that truly reflect who you are—and who you’re serving—without losing your soul in the process. Thanks for joining us on this creative wisdom journey!

Connect with Addie Ott

Website:https://www.addisonott.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/addison-ott/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:13 Addie Ott's Creative Journey & Faith in Design

03:31 Visual Identity: Tone, Heartbeat, and Brand Purpose

04:15 What is Visual Identity? Components and Context

06:59 Balancing Excellence and Grace in Design Process

10:41 Finding Timeless Inspiration in Everyday Objects

13:03 Technical Principles: Colors, Typography & Accessibility

17:43 Maintaining Consistency Across Mediums

21:16 Building a Visual System from Scratch

24:56 AI's Role in Design Today

29:58 Sustaining Creativity When Blocked

32:31 Lightning Round: Favorites and Design Principles

36:34 Where to Find and Connect with Addie Ott

38:21 Closing Remarks and Next Steps

In today’s episode, I sat down with Ken Meritt, an enterprise strategist who’s spent nearly three decades guiding top leaders and entrepreneurs through business transformation and authentic leadership. We dove into why strategy is more about people than just numbers, how real leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room, and what it takes to turn complexity into clarity (yes, even when you’re drowning in deadlines and data!). Ken also shared insights on building legacy, embracing failure, and cultivating strategic thinking—no matter where you are in your journey. My hope is that you walk away inspired to prioritize both financial smarts and human connection, and that you remember: great leaders are made, not just born. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the Wisdom Journey newsletter for more tools and behind-the-scenes updates. Let’s keep learning and growing together!

Connect with Ken Meritt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/merritt-advisory-group-llc/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:01:05 Ken Meritt’s Early Career & Realization About People in Strategy
00:02:32 Defining Business Transformation Through Leadership
00:03:53 Turning Complexity Into Clarity for Leaders
00:05:00 Finding Strategic Focus and Avoiding Distractions
00:07:08 Strategy Alignment: Paper vs. Execution
00:08:14 Leadership Gravitas: Definition and Importance
00:09:58 Developing Presence and Trust as a Leader
00:11:39 Balancing Financial Stewardship and Human Leadership
00:13:29 Universal Principles of Legacy Building
00:15:15 Cultivating Strategic Thinking Early in Your Career
00:17:34 Lessons Learned: Success & Leadership Only Time Can Teach
00:20:14 Lightning Round: Leadership Insights
00:24:14 Closing Remarks and Outro

In this episode, I sat down with Heidi Weiland, a holistic business coach whose journey from self-taught web developer to thriving entrepreneur brings a whole new perspective to building a sustainable business. We dove into what burnout really looks like, especially for sensitive and introverted solopreneurs, and why traditional “hustle harder” advice often misses the mark for folks like us. Heidi shared practical ways to design a business model that honors your energy, human needs, and unique strengths—so you can actually enjoy your work and your life. My hope is that you walk away inspired to create more space in your schedule, prioritize real self-care, and remember that scaling doesn’t have to mean working more or burning out. This episode is all about finding success on your own terms.

Connect with Heidi Weiland

Website:https://servicewithsoul.co/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiweiland/

I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/

Chapters

**Introduction to Wisdom Journey & Heidi Weiland**

00:00 - 01:35

**Heidi’s Early Business Journey & First Signs of Burnout**

01:36 - 04:07

**Turning Point: The Shift Toward Regenerative Business**

04:08 - 05:21

**Why Traditional Strategies Fail Sensitive Entrepreneurs**

05:22 - 06:50

**Human-Centered Scaling for Solopreneurs**

06:51 - 08:33

**Breaking Down the Numbers: Scalable Offers Without Burnout**

08:34 - 11:15

**Building a Lean, Supportive Team & Selling a Business**

11:16 - 16:18

**Mistakes Sensitive Solopreneurs Make When Scaling**

16:19 - 20:26

**Hiring Wisely and Reclaiming Time**

20:27 - 22:01

**Rest as a Business Strategy**

22:02 - 23:19

**Supporting Burned Out Solopreneurs**

23:20 - 24:34

**Self Care as a Business Strategy**

24:35 - 26:33

**Integrating Intuition With Strategy (Human Design)**

26:34 - 28:37

**Practical Shift to Prevent Burnout Immediately**

28:38 - 30:14

**Auditing for Sustainable Scaling in 2025**

30:15 - 32:10

**Client Transformation Stories**

32:11 - 33:34

**The Hard Lessons of Business & Advice for Beginners**

33:35 - 36:18

**Where to Find Heidi Weiland & Closing**

36:19 - 37:43