Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Mick Unplugged." Today, Mick Hunt sits down with the resilient and multifaceted Monica Madrid. Monica opens up about a pivotal career setback where she lost an opportunity to Tupac Shakur, a moment that shaped her journey in profound ways. From her early challenges in the music industry, including meetings with heavyweights like Jimmy Iovine, to eventually finding profound success as one of the top loan officers in the U.S., Monica's story is one of perseverance and transformation.

In this episode, Monica shares insights from her book "The Next Quiet Voice," emphasizing the importance of spiritual freedom and finding purpose when dreams don’t pan out as expected. She talks candidly about her struggles with identity, battles with addiction, key moments like performing on "Soul Train," and her journey to sobriety and spiritual realignment.

Monica also delivers invaluable business tips, reveals her empowering daily routine for perseverance, and discusses her strategies for achieving greatness through consistency. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative facing setbacks, or simply looking to enhance your personal growth, Monica's experiences and wisdom offer a wellspring of inspiration.

Join Mick and Monica for a riveting conversation that will leave you motivated to push your limits, embrace your purpose, and, as always, stay unstoppable. Don't miss this engaging episode on "Mick Unplugged"!

Takeaways:

·       Monica's journey highlights the importance of resilience.

·       Finding purpose after loss is crucial for personal growth.

·       Identifying your ideal customer can streamline success.

·       Daily gratitude and helping others can foster positivity.

Questions & Answers:

1.         Question:

Mick Hunt: "Monica, how did losing that opportunity to Tupac affect you, and what did you learn from it?"

Monica Madrid: "It was tough, Mick. It felt like my dreams were taken away. But it taught me resilience—setbacks push us to dig deeper. I had to redefine my goals and found success in real estate."

2. Question:

Mick Hunt: "How has starting and ending your day with gratitude contributed to your success?"

Monica Madrid: "Gratitude sets a positive tone. Saying 'thank you' each morning grounds me, and reviewing my accomplishments at night keeps me motivated. It helps me stay focused and positive."

3. Question:

Mick Hunt: "Why do you prioritize knowing your worth and being selective with clients?"

Monica Madrid: "Understanding my worth was a game changer. Focusing on motivated clients saves time and leads to better outcomes. It’s about quality over quantity for sustainable success."

Sound Bites

·       "I always felt a different calling."

·       "I was devastated."

·       "Finding your purpose is key."

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:     linkedin.com/in/

Instagram:  Instagram.com/monicamadrid49

Facebook:  facebook.com/monica.madrid.165

Website:     monicamadrid.com

                    Footballissexy.com

X:                @madrid49_ent

Book:            The Next Quiet Voice

Podcast:  Work On Your Game

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another insightful episode of *Mick Unplugged*! In today's show, we're diving deep into the fascinating journey of Dre Baldwin, renowned former professional basketball player turned entrepreneurial powerhouse. Alongside hosts Dre Baldwin and Mick Hunt, we explore how Dre kicked off his parallel career in the digital space while playing basketball internationally, transforming his passion into a thriving business.

We'll uncover Dre's initial steps into content creation on YouTube, selling $5 basketball training programs, and eventually shifting gears towards motivational content that resonates beyond the court. From self-publishing books to his innovative "roadmap in reverse" framework, Dre's story is a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Our discussion touches on the hustle culture, highlighting the crucial blend of hard work, strategy, and execution necessary for sustained success. Mick and Dre dissect the balance between talent and effort, the power of focusing on outcomes, and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their impact.

Tune in for an enriching conversation filled with real-life anecdotes, strategic insights, and a motivational push to strive for greatness. Stick around to hear how Dre's journey can inspire your path to personal and professional growth. Let's get started!

Takeaways:

·       Starting late in basketball didn't deter Dre; he found his path through hard work.

·       Consistency in content creation has led to Dre's massive audience engagement.

·       Hustle is important, but strategy is essential for sustainable success.

·       Understanding the 80-20 principle can help entrepreneurs focus on impactful actions.

·       Plans may change, but the process of planning is invaluable.

·       Focusing on outcomes rather than outputs leads to better results.

Questions & Answers:

1.         Question:

Mick Hunt: "Dre, how have you maintained motivation and consistency since 2005, creating around 30,000 pieces of content?"

Answer:

Dre Baldwin: "Consistency is about showing up every day. Over Dre, it's the cumulative effort that counts, not any single viral piece. This approach built my audience and kept athletes returning for advice, eventually expanding my coaching business."

2. Question:

Mick Hunt: "Can you explain your 'roadmap in reverse' framework?"

Answer:

Dre Baldwin: "Start with the end goal and work backwards to identify necessary steps. This method helped me secure a basketball career and later, plan my business ventures by breaking down large goals into manageable actions."

3. Question:

Mick Hunt: "How do you balance hustle with strategy for long-term success?"

Answer:

Dre Baldwin: "Hustle gets you started, but strategy sustains you. I hustled early on, but scaling required studying the market and refining my approach. Combining hard work with smart planning allowed me to effectively grow my business."

Sound Bites

·       "His content has been consumed over 103 million Drees."

·       "I started selling $5 training programs."

·       "Hard work is an element of success, not the key."

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dreallday

Instagram:  Instagram.com/drebaldwin

Facebook:  facebook.com/DreBaldwin

Website:  https://www.drebaldwin.com/dre-dreallday-baldwin

                 https://www.workonyourgameuniversity.com/

Podcast:  Work On Your Game

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to "Mick Unplugged"! In today's riveting episode, we have the honor of interviewing Dima Ghawi—an inspiring leadership coach, author, and speaker dedicated to global leadership, diversity, and inclusion. Dima shares her incredible journey of resilience, from facing death threats due to cultural norms to becoming a beacon of hope and transformation. She offers profound insights into her work in DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), the challenges leaders face today, and the critical importance of self-discovery and authenticity in leadership.

With captivating personal anecdotes and innovative strategies, Dima reveals how investing in oneself can dismantle limiting beliefs and unlock true potential. We also delve into her exciting upcoming projects, including a possible movie adaptation of her life and online leadership development programs. Join us as Mick Hunt and Dima Ghawi explore how to lead with integrity and build inclusive environments that foster growth and creativity. Stay tuned for an episode brimming with inspiration and actionable advice!

The top 5 takeaways from this episode of "Mick Unplugged" featuring Dima Ghawi:

1. The Journey from Survival to Empowerment:

   • Dima Ghawi's personal story of escaping an abusive marriage and facing her father's death threats sheds light on the harrowing realities certain cultural norms enforce. Her journey highlights the transition from merely surviving these threats to thriving through self-discovery, self-love, and eventually, using her experiences to empower others.

2. The Power of DEI in Organizations:

   • Dima's work in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is transformative, both for individuals and organizations. Her efforts with a resistant board of directors illustrate that patience, understanding, and non-judgmental engagement are crucial to achieving buy-in for DEI initiatives. This has resulted in significant changes such as diverse leadership pipelines and DEI certifications within organizations.

3. Constructive Feedback and Leadership Development:

   • Dima stresses the importance of constructive feedback in leadership. Today's leaders often struggle with giving feedback due to fear of confrontation or litigation. However, she emphasizes that honest and constructive conversations can greatly aid in personal and professional growth.

4. Self-Awareness in Leadership:

   • For aspiring leaders, Dima recommends beginning with self-discovery to understand their strengths, communication style, and conflict management abilities. She cautions against being promoted solely based on technical skills without a fundamental understanding of leadership responsibilities. Self-awareness and proactive personal development are vital.

5. Breaking Free from Perfectionism:

   • Drawing from her grandmother's metaphor of a glass vase, Dima encourages individuals to challenge societal and cultural expectations of perfection. She believes in recognizing and questioning these imposed standards, thereby breaking free to pursue personal growth and development. This step is crucial for authentic leadership and forming a genuine connection with others.

Connect and Discover:

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dimaghawi

Instagram:  Instagram.com/dima.ghawi

Facebook:  facebook.com/profile.php?id=10050491089661

Website:  dimaghawi.com

Youtube: @DimaGhawi

Book: Breaking Vases: Shattering Limitations & Daring to Thrive

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another illuminating episode of Mick Unplugged! Today we bring you an extraordinary conversation with Grace Vandecruze, a powerhouse in the financial world and author of the transformative book "Homeless to Millionaire."

In this episode, Grace takes us on her journey from homelessness to making over $25 billion in insurance mergers and acquisitions, including deals with Warren Buffett. She shares invaluable insights on resilience, education, and financial empowerment, inspired by her grandmother's wisdom to "believe beyond your limits." Plus, an exciting offer – Mick Hunt will be giving away 20 copies of Grace’s book to the first listeners who message "financial abundance" via email, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Join us for a deep dive into Grace's inspiring life, practical advice for achieving financial success, and the promise of an empowering follow-up episode. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your financial game and connect with us for more enriching content. Let's get started!

Takeaways:

• Believe beyond your limits and look beyond your current circumstances
• Education can be a bridge to a brighter future
• The insurance industry is pivotal for building wealth and lifting generations out of poverty
• Financial literacy is essential for achieving financial abundance

Sound Bites

• "My life is a result of not believing in any limits of any of your circumstances."
• "In your situation is a gift."
• "Grace Global Capital is an example of living it every day."

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/gracevandecruze

Instagram:  Instagram.com/gracevandecruze

Facebook:  facebook.com/gracevandecruze

Website:  graceglobalcapital.com

Book: Homeless to Millionaire: 6 Keys to Uplift Your Financial Abundance

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another insightful episode of "Mick Unplugged"! Today, we're diving deep into the world of financial literacy, mentorship, and smart investing with our guest, Herman Dolce. As the founder of Bella Sloan Enterprises and Bella Sona Academy, Herman is dedicated to educating individuals on the importance of financial education and strategic investments.

In this episode, we'll explore how having a mentor can save you from costly mistakes, the value of surrounding yourself with the right influences, and the powerful analogy of using "fast passes" to accelerate your success. Herman will share personal anecdotes, such as how guidance from his brother led him to establish his thriving business, and how wisdom from mentors like Les Brown has shaped our host, Mick Hunt's journey.

We'll also delve into the nuances of good debt versus bad debt, strategic business financing, and Herman's mission to teach financial literacy from high school classrooms to boardrooms. Whether you're looking to better manage your credit, invest wisely, or simply understand the tax laws better, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories to help you achieve financial freedom.

So tune in as we unlock the secrets to financial success and personal growth with Herman Dolce, only on "Mick Unplugged".

Takeaways:

• Financial literacy and education are crucial for achieving financial freedom.
• Not all debt is bad debt; understanding the difference between good and bad debt is important.
• Having a mentor and investing in coaches can provide valuable wisdom and shortcuts to success.
• Initiatives like Bella Sloan Academy and the Blueprint Foundation aim to teach financial literacy to individuals of all ages.

Sound Bites

• "Everybody should not have a business. But everyone should be an investor."
• "We need to have amazing examples of what we truly want to be. It is the shortcut and hack to be successful in this life."

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/herman-dolce

Instagram:  Instagram.com/Haitian_CEO

Facebook:  facebook.com/BellaSloanEnterprises

TikTok: @Haitian_CEO

Website:  bellasloanllc.com

Non-Profit: Blue Print Foundation                    

Podcast: Execute!

Books: ABC’s of Credit               
Bella Builds Business Credit

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of *Mick Unplugged*! In today's session, our host Mick Hunt sits down with the remarkable Marquel Russell. Known for his unparalleled ability to simplify complex business concepts and make them accessible for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike, Marquel shares his inspirational journey from high school dropout to a globe-trotting entrepreneur and founder of Client Attraction University.

We'll uncover his deeper purpose and how he views his work as a spiritual mission, dive into his impactful strategies that have helped millions, and explore the concept of intrapreneurship—highlighting how entrepreneurial skills can thrive within existing companies.

Tune in as Marquel discusses everything from his background and transition from drug dealing to legal and successful ventures to his innovative approaches in marketing and business scaling. Whether you're an aspiring business owner, a seasoned entrepreneur, or looking to make a mark within your organization, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and motivational stories that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned to *Mick Unplugged*!

Takeaways:

• Being available and visible as a leader is a mark of true leadership.
• Retargeting is a powerful strategy that allows businesses to reach potential customers who have shown interest but haven't taken action.
• Meaningful work and aligning goals with values are key to creating a fulfilling life.

Sound Bites

• "You can have as many leads as you want, but if they're not moving through your process, you just have a very heavy top end and at some point that top end falls down
• “To be available, to be visible for those that are striving to get to where you are, to me is a mark of true leadership."
  
  

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/marquel-russell

Instagram:  Instagram.com/marquelrussell

Facebook:  facebook.com/ceomarquelrussell

Website: scalemadeeasy.com

Podcast: Strategic Scale with Marquel Russell

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another electrifying episode of Mick Unplugged! Today, we're diving into the mind of business strategist extraordinaire, Chris Lee. Join host Mick Hunt as he unpacks Chris’s insights on the true essence of entrepreneurship, the critical role of business identity, and the paramount importance of culture in scaling successful businesses. Discover why your only competition is the pain you're solving and learn from Chris's unique experiences and game-changing strategies that have led him to impact billions. Buckle up for bold moves and raw insights in this unmissable conversation! 

Takeaways

• Entrepreneurs have the power to change society through entrepreneurship by providing value and solving customer pain points.
• One common mistake entrepreneurs make when scaling their businesses is working solely for money instead of focusing on their people and developing a strong company culture.
• Charging more for products or services can lead to better customer experiences and higher profits, as long as the value provided justifies the price.
• Creating a strong company culture is essential for success, and it can be achieved through a clear vision and mission, core values, and a focus on the whole human approach.

Top 3 Questions answered in the episode:

1. Why is maintaining a business identity crucial for growth?
   • Chris emphasizes that businesses should focus on their unique identity and solving customer pain points, rather than trying to impress others or compete on price alone.
2. What are the common mistakes made by entrepreneurs in their growth journey?
   • Chris points out flaws such as prioritizing money over mission, neglecting employee development, and misusing profits for personal gain instead of reinvesting in the business.
3. How can a business effectively create and maintain a strong culture?
   • Chris highlights the importance of a designed culture, stressing a clear vision, mission, and core values actively practiced within the organization to ensure holistic employee development.

Sound Bites

• "Money chases value and entrepreneurs can change society through entrepreneurship."
• "Charge more and provide more, either be the most expensive or the cheapest in the market."
• "You are not in competition with anybody, your competition is the pain you are solving."

Connect and Discover:

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/chris-lee-0b02722b

Instagram:  Instagram.com/chrisleeqb

Facebook:  facebook.com/chrisleeqb

Website:  gonextlevelpros.com

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-pros/id1687030281

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to another impactful episode of Mick Unplugged! Today, we have the honor of hosting Martha and Chris Thomas, founders of the nonprofit "The Defensive Line," which is dedicated to preventing youth suicide, particularly among young people of color. In this episode, we dive deep into the pressing issues of mental health stigma, the importance of community support, and actionable steps to recognize and address mental health struggles.

We discuss societal expectations around masculinity, the significance of showing vulnerability, and how local resources and crisis hotlines like 988 can make a life-saving difference. Martha and Chris also share their personal motivations, inspired by their late daughter Ella, to foster open conversations about mental health and collaborate with organizations like AFSP and Dak Prescott’s Faith by Finish.

Join us as we explore how comprehensive health encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and hear about their exciting plans to expand their training programs with the Clinton Global Initiative. Plus, learn about the unique impact their workshops and keynotes are having on schools, universities, and communities nationwide.

Your unique purpose is your superpower, so tune in, push your limits, embrace your goals, and chase greatness with us today on Mick Unplugged!

Top 3 Questions answered in the episode:

1. How can we recognize the signs of someone struggling with mental health issues and intervene?

• Discussion Points
  • Notice behavioral changes, isolation, and giving away possessions.
  • Improve awareness and confidence through workshops and panels.

• Discussion Points
  • Directly asking about suicidal thoughts can be helpful.
  • Role plays are used to reduce discomfort and improve response readiness.

• Discussion Points
  • Suicide increasingly affects communities of color.
  • Utilize community leaders and organizations to provide customized support.

Takeaways

• Mental health impacts not just individuals but entire communities.
• Open conversations about mental health can reduce stigma.
• Taking action after a tragedy can lead to meaningful change.
• Connection and listening are vital in supporting those in need.
• Recognizing signs of mental health struggles is crucial for intervention.

Connect and Discover:

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/the-defensive-line

Instagram:  Instagram.com/thedefensiveline

Facebook:  facebook.com/thedefensiveline

Website:  thedefensiveline.org

Podcast:  @thedefensiveline1238

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Mick Unplugged! In today's episode, we dive into an eye-opening discussion with Dr. Anthony Mazzella, a trailblazer in integrated medicine and holistic care. Together with your host Mick Hunt, Dr. Mazzella challenges conventional wisdom on boundaries in relationships, offering insights into the value of getting closer to someone's subjective experience for true understanding and conflict resolution.

We delve deep into psychodynamic and psychoanalytic therapies, exploring how they address root causes rather than just symptoms. Dr. Mazzella sheds light on complex topics like narcissism and borderline personality disorder, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and effective communication. We'll also touch on the fascinating intersections of depression, anxiety, and personality disorders, and how nuanced approaches can lead to better mental health outcomes.

And for those battling sleepless nights, both Mick and Dr. Mazzella share their unique strategies for turning insomnia into productivity. So, get ready for a transformative and enlightening conversation that promises to shift your perspective on mental wellness and relationships. Let's get unplugged!

Takeaways

·      Self-reflection and understanding are crucial in relationships with narcissists.

·      Closer communication and validation can help manage conflicts with narcissistic individuals.

·      Narcissism and borderline personality disorder have overlapping characteristics but differ in terms of self-image and emotional regulation.

·      Depression and anxiety can be symptoms of underlying personality disorders and may require a different approach to treatment.

Sound Bites

"You're one of the very few people that are qualified."

"Get as close as possible to what just happened."

"Appreciating somebody's subjective experience."

Here are 3 Key Takeaways:

• Beyond Boundaries: Dr. Mazzella challenges the conventional approach of "creating boundaries" in relationships by suggesting that we sometimes need to get closer to understand each other’s subjective experiences. This isn’t about tolerating abuse but fostering deeper connections and empathy.
• Understanding Over Labels: Labeling someone as a "narcissist" can escalate conflicts and hinder understanding. Dr. Mazzella emphasizes the need for psychoanalytic approaches that work on underlying issues rather than just addressing the symptoms.
• Handling Dysregulated Emotional States: When someone is in an emotionally charged state, the first step is to validate their feelings. Acknowledgment and validation help move them from a place of distress to one where they can reflect and manage their emotions better.

💡 Bonus Insight: Both Dr. Mazzella and Mick Hunt shared their unique approach to sleepless nights—using the time for productive reflection rather than struggling to sleep. Trusting your body to find its balance can be more beneficial than stressing over insomnia.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another compelling episode of Mick Unplugged. Today, we have the honor and privilege of hosting an exceptional guest, Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans, a decorated U.S. veteran with over 27 years of service. Known for her incredible resilience and inspiring journey, Sergeant Major Evans has transformed the trauma and challenges she faced in combat into a powerful mission of hope and advocacy for veterans. In this episode, we dive deep into her story of overcoming life-altering injuries, finding purpose beyond adversity, and her unwavering commitment to giving back. From her military career to her work as a motivational speaker and leader of Team Unbroken, Sergeant Major Evans' insights on resilience, grit, and living a life in service of others will leave you inspired and motivated. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be moved by the extraordinary tale of Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans.

Takeaways

• Acknowledge and process pain and trauma before moving forward
• Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success
• Form a supportive community and help others
• Live a life without regrets and pursue your purpose

Sound Bites

• "I had a couple of days of the whimy and a little bit of a pity party"
• "I'm not gonna let what happened to me define who I am"
• "Failure is not the end of the story. Failure is just another chapter in the book"

Connect and Discover:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mick interviews Pastor Troy Gramling, a visionary pastor and author, about the concept of potential and how to unlock it. Pastor Troy shares his belief that everyone has the potential to make a difference and emphasizes the importance of taking steps towards personal development. He also discusses the role of community in staying focused on goals and offers practical steps for discovering and pursuing one's purpose. The conversation covers topics such as self-reflection, overcoming challenges, and dreaming big.

Takeaways

• Everyone has the potential to make a difference and live a life of purpose.
• Taking steps towards personal development is crucial in realizing one's potential.
• Building a supportive community and seeking guidance from those who love, believe in, and know more than you can help stay focused on goals.
• Self-reflection and asking difficult questions are essential in discovering and pursuing one's purpose.
• Challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth and preparation for success.

Sound Bites

"We were created with intentionality to do something of significance."
"The first step towards realizing your potential is often the most challenging."
"Stop focusing on what you don't have and start asking what is in your hand."

Key Questions that Pastor Troy answers:

1. How does Pastor Troy Gramling define potential, and what personal experiences influenced his perspective on it?
2. How did community involvement influence Pastor Troy Gramling's transformation from wanting to be a basketball coach to becoming a pastor, and how does community play a role in his life?
3. In what ways does Pastor Troy Gramling emphasize the importance of seeing one's potential as God-given, and how do faith and purpose intersect in his teachings?
4. Pastor Troy Gramling discusses the importance of focusing on "what's in your hand" rather than on what you lack. Can you share an example from your own life where this mindset helped you achieve a goal?
5. How does Pastor Troy Gramling find balance between his personal aspirations and his commitment to serving others, and what practical steps does he recommend for maintaining this balance?

Connect and Discover:

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/troygramling

Instagram:  Instagram.com/troygramling

Facebook:  facebook.com/potentialchurch

Website:  troygramling.com

Podcast:  Troy Gramling Podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.