FIRE LINE: "Being great was not just going to happen because I was extremely talented."

Sanya Richards-Ross, an Olympic Gold medalist and track and field icon, shares her leadership insights on intentionality, the 400-meter race strategy, and her impactful work with mothers. This episode will equip business leaders with actionable frameworks for sustained excellence.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- 3 "Because Statements" for daily drive

- Sanya Richards-Ross' 4 Ps strategy for success

- Impact of early mentorship on an athlete

- Balancing physical and mental discipline

- Why "MommiNation Gives" supports black moms

QUOTES THAT HIT

"No, baby. Do you really want to be great?" - Sanya Richards-Ross

"I want to always see myself beyond being a track and field athlete." - Sanya Richards-Ross

"You're impacting the life of a family." - Sanya Richards-Ross

CHAPTERS

00:00 Defining Sanya's Three Becausals

03:06 Early Beginnings of "Because I Can"

07:30 Unplugged Truth about 400m Dominance

19:00 Intentionality Beyond Track and Field

22:07 The Vision for Beyond the Curve

24:15 Dad's Car Conversation: The Greatness Room

31:10 Mission of Mommy Nation Gives

34:58 Unplugged Five Rapid Fire

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What was Sanya Richards-Ross's strategy for winning the 400-meter race?

A: Sanya Richards-Ross utilized the "four P's" strategy: Push, Pace, Position, and Poise, along with a silent "Pray" for the final hundred meters, which she also applies to life.

Q: How did Sanya Richards-Ross prepare for her career transition after track and field?

A: Sanya Richards-Ross was intentional about her transition for two years before retirement, thinking about how her athletic skills would serve her next, leading her to pursuits in television, writing, and family.

Q: What is the main goal of Sanya Richards-Ross's nonprofit, MommiNation Gives?

A: MommiNation Gives supports Black moms on their motherhood journey, helping homeless mothers and families affected by the black maternal mortality crisis by providing resources and community.

Connect & Discover Sanya Richards-Ross:

Website: sanyarichardsross.com

Foundation: MommiNation.com

Instagram: @sanyarichiross

Facebook: @sanyarichards

YouTube: @sani400

TikTok: @sanyarichiross

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I wouldn't have the skillset I needed had any of that happened, and I would have squandered it.

In this Mick Unplugged episode, entrepreneur Tim Rexius, CEO of Rexius Nutrition, reveals how his "DAD" philosophy drives successful business growth. Tim promises to share crucial lessons on leadership, wealth generation, and family integration in entrepreneurship.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- Tim Rexius' "DAD" philosophy

- Work-life integration for entrepreneurs

- Business growth strategies

- The value of lifelong learning

- The benefits of creatine

QUOTES THAT HIT

"There is no work-life balance. That doesn't exist, it's a myth. But I've made my life my work and I've brought my kids and my family into every step of the process." - Tim Rexius

"I was like, you know, I don't think the answer is having more employees. I think the answer is having more partners." - Tim Rexius

"The average protein snack can take two hours to digest this popcorn six minutes." - Tim Rexius

CHAPTERS

00:00 Tim Rexius' "Because"

02:12 Entrepreneurial Mindset Philosophy

04:12 More Partners, Fewer Employees

11:30 Tim Rexius' Business Strategy

21:54 Rexius Nutrition Products

25:23 Building Omaha Protein Popcorn

39:02 A Life-Changing Room

41:18 Rapid Fire Hot Five

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What is Tim Rexius's "DAD" philosophy for entrepreneurs?

A: Tim Rexius's "DAD" philosophy stands for Discipline, Action, and Dedication, which he emphasizes are crucial for entrepreneurial success and overcoming challenges.

Q: How did Tim Rexius develop Omaha Protein Popcorn?

A: Tim Rexius developed Omaha Protein Popcorn by experimenting with 600 batches to create a high-quality, protein-rich snack that could appeal to children and athletes, and later adapted its marketing based on consumer feedback.

Q: What is Tim Rexius's advice on work-life balance for entrepreneurs?

A: Tim Rexius believes "work-life balance" is a myth, advocating instead for "work-life integration" by involving family in business endeavors and shared goals.

Connect & Discover Tim:

Instagram: @timothy_d_rexius

Website: timrexius.com

LinkedIn: @timothy-rexius

Facebook: @tim.rexius

YouTube: @timothydrexius

🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥 

Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 

👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 To lead others, you must first master yourself, that's the ultimate success code.

High-performance coach Brandon Epstein, author of "The Success Code," helps professionals unlock their peak performance. This episode reveals how to rewire your identity for sustained success.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- The 3 pillars of performance identity

- How to access flow states for peak results

- 5 strategies for subconscious block removal

- The role of mindset in elite achievement

- Actionable steps to create your success code

QUOTES THAT HIT

"Your identity dictates your reality." - Brandon Epstein

"Performance isn't just what you do, it's who you are." - Brandon Epstein

"Subconscious blocks are often the invisible ceiling for success." - Brandon Epstein

CHAPTERS

00:00 Unlocking Brandon Epstein's Success Code

05:15 Rewiring Identity for Peak Performance

12:30 Accessing Flow States in Business

20:05 Removing Subconscious Blocks Effectively

28:40 The 3 Pillars of High Performance

35:00 Practical Steps for Identity Shifts

42:10 Sustained Excellence Principles

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What is the primary role of identity in high performance?

A: Identity defines your capabilities and beliefs, fundamentally shaping your actions and results. If you identify as someone who achieves, you will act accordingly.

Q: How can entrepreneurs enter a flow state consistently?

A: Consistently entering a flow state involves optimizing your environment, having clear goals, and honing your skills to meet challenges, allowing for deep, effortless focus.

Q: Why is it crucial to address subconscious blocks for leaders?

A: Subconscious blocks often unknowingly limit a leader's potential by creating self-sabotaging patterns and preventing them from operating at their highest level of effectiveness.

Connect & Discover Brandon:

Instagram: @brandonepstein

LinkedIn: Brandon Epstein

Website: thebrandonepstein.com

Book: The Success Code

YouTube: @RewiredMethod

 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 

How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how).

Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life.

👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website: MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Winning ain't for everybody because people aren't willing to put in the work and discipline.

Mick Hunt welcomes entrepreneur and content creator Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples) to discuss self-mastery, strategic decision-making, and why peace of mind should be your ultimate goal. This episode challenges traditional notions of success and offers insights on living authentically.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- The critical role of "no" in personal growth

- How 5-10 "yeses" can change your life

- Why peace of mind matters more than loyalty

- Understanding the biggest business in the world: fear

- The importance of auditing your inner circle

QUOTES THAT HIT

"I started committing crimes because I wanted to be accepted by some people that I thought was cool, that was followers themselves." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples)

"Nothing supersede a good nap. That good recharge when you go to sleep." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples)

"You gotta have people around that understand you're crazy and believe me you're crazy." - Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples)

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Push to Help

02:06 Discovering Your Calling Later in Life

04:33 Letting Go of Old Beliefs

06:56 The Importance of Peace

11:09 Health is Wealth

15:16 Why Winning Ain't for Everybody

19:38 Block Out the Bullshit and Fear

21:36 Auditing Your Circle and Relationships

28:47 No is a Complete Sentence

32:07 The Power of a Few Key Yeses

34:22 Yes to You, No to Them

36:01 The Life-Changing Rooms

41:50 Rapid Fire: Unplugged Five

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: How does saying "no" impact one's life and personal development?

A: Saying "no" transforms your life, even if it brings initial bickering. Establishing "no" early helps younger people, changing everything for them.

Q: What is Wallo267's perspective on "winning ain't for everybody"?

A: Wallo267 believes winning isn't for everyone because it requires significant discipline and work that many are unwilling to put in. Successful people often seek the "boring" monotony of consistent effort.

Q: How can listeners connect with Wallo267's new book and community initiatives?

A: Listeners can get Wallo267's book, "Yes to You, No to Them," through Amazon.com and other major booksellers. They can join a social media movement starting July 16th to discuss weekly passages and share what the book means to them.

Connect & Discover Wallo267 (Wallace Peeples):

Instagram: @wallo267

LinkedIn: @wallce-peoples

YouTube: @wallo267

TikTok: @wallo267

X: @Wallo267

Facebook: @whereswallo

Book: Yes to You, No to Them: The Discipline of Saying No and the Freedom that Follows

Brand: arplnsnhotls.com

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website: MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

FIRE LINE: You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want.

Jess Hilarious, the dynamic stand-up comedian and co-host of The Breakfast Club, shares her journey of parenting, purpose, and professional evolution. Dive into this episode to understand how resilience defines her legacy and the raw truths behind her success.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- 3 key reasons for Jess Hilarious's because

- 6 months to form a bond with her son

- 2 Baltimore venues that define her career

- Why "dummy" is a term of endearment

- The importance of a supportive parenting village

QUOTES THAT HIT

"You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore

"Legacy is one of the most important things to ever leave behind." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore

"Parenting is one of the hardest things. It's just the most challenging thing you could ever do. But it's complex and it's complicated, but it's beautiful." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore

CHAPTERS

00:00 Defining Jess Hilarious's Because

01:03 The Shared Parenting Purpose

03:49 Joy Over Happiness in Parenting

06:25 Jess Hilarious's Breakdown Moment

13:49 Fear and the Pregnancy Announcement

22:34 No One is Fully Healed

25:00 The Baltimore "Dummy" Hot Take

27:19 Martin Lawrence and The Room

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: How did Jess Hilarious connect with her son emotionally?

A: Jess Hilarious describes a moment six months after her son's birth, picking him up while crying, when she felt a deep emotional and mental connection, realizing he was her pride and joy.

Q: What was the pivotal moment for Jess Hilarious's stand-up career?

A: The pivotal moment was performing at the Wells Fargo Arena in Baltimore City in 2016, opening for Martin Lawrence in front of 13,000 people, which confirmed her path in stand-up comedy.

Q: Why is "dummy" a term of endearment in Baltimore?

A: "Dummy" became a term of endearment in Baltimore starting around 11 years old for Jess Hilarious's generation, used among peers, and signifies a cultural bond rather than an insult.

Connect & Discover Jess Hilarious:

Instagram: @jesshilarious_official

Website: jesshilariousofficial.com

Facebook: @JessHilariousofficial

YouTube: @jesshilariousofficial

X: @jess_hilarious

TikTok: @jesshilarious_official

Book: “Till Death Do We Parent

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leadership isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about inspiring commitment through genuine connection and relentless effort.

Learn leadership from NFL Hall of Famer, Jared Allen, as he shares insights from his Pro Bowl career about thriving under pressure. This episode reveals how elite athletes translate gridiron success into business and personal development.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- The 2011 season's 22-sack mindset

- Building a Hall of Fame career foundation

- Jared Allen's key leadership principles

- Mental toughness strategies for entrepreneurs

- Honoring military families through philanthropy

QUOTES THAT HIT

"You have to be a little bit crazy, but you also have to be calculated." - Jared Allen

"Leadership is not just about telling people what to do, it's about showing them and earning their trust." - Jared Allen

"There's no substitute for hard work and understanding your competition." - Jared Allen

CHAPTERS

00:00 From Idaho State to NFL Legend

07:15 The 22-Sack Season Breakdown

14:30 Leadership Lessons from the Locker Room

21:55 Transitioning NFL Grit to Business

28:10 Jared Allen's Philanthropic Mission

35:00 Sustaining Excellence Beyond the Field

42:20 Building a Brand, Full Ryed Bourbon

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: How did Jared Allen approach the record-breaking 2011 NFL season?

A: Jared Allen combined relentless physical preparation with a deep understanding of his opponents' tendencies, constantly pushing for improvement even when nearing the single-season sack record.

Q: What are Jared Allen's top leadership principles?

A: Jared Allen emphasizes leading by example, fostering genuine relationships, and empowering teammates, believing that true leadership earns respect rather than demands it.

Q: How does Jared Allen maintain mental toughness in his post-NFL career?

A: Jared Allen applies the same discipline and strategic thinking he used in football to his business ventures and personal life, focusing on continuous learning and impactful contributions.

Connect & Discover Jared:

Instagram: @jaredallen69

Full Ryde Bourbon: fullrydebourbon.com

Foundation: Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors

X / Twitter: @jaredallen69

 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 

How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how).

Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life.

👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My wife and family are special, and I want the world to see how special they are.

Entrepreneur David Grutman, co-owner of Groot Hospitality, shares how to build a lasting legacy and why nurturing relationships is key to success. He explains why focusing on intellectual property and an exit strategy, even if you never plan to sell, are critical for any business leader.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- The critical importance of building an ecosystem around your business

- How David Grutman uses AI in his hospitality ventures

- Why your intellectual property and name are everything

- The one thing David is most proud of to date

- Why building an exit strategy for your business is crucial

QUOTES THAT HIT

"If I see a guest that I know that we take care of all the time doing their birthday party at another venue and not ours. I'm upset." - David Grutman

"Don't being a gatekeeper. I hate these gatekeeper people." - David Grutman

"You should always build a company that that's why IP is very important that you're not going to have a mess if you do exit trying to tie up all these people that are part of your IP." - David Grutman

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome David Grutman

01:32 David's Entrepreneurial Because and Next Steps

02:36 Groot Hospitality's Las Vegas Expansion

04:41 Taking Things Personally in Business

06:37 Building Your Business Ecosystem

09:53 David Grutman's Unique Value Proposition

15:47 The Importance of Being in the Right Rooms

19:53 Your Name and IP are Everything

22:22 The Exit Strategy Mindset

25:51 Mick's Rapid Fire Five with David

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What does David Grutman mean by "Take It Personal"?

A: David Grutman applies "Take It Personal" to his business, meaning he fully immerses himself in the customer experience, observing competitor venues, and ensuring his team provides the best service to keep guests loyal.

Q: How can entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem around their business?

A: Entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem by focusing on relationships and curating experiences, both within their own venues and by recommending other valuable experiences, adding value for their guests beyond their direct offerings.

Q: Why is having an exit strategy important, even if you don't plan to sell?

A: Having an exit strategy is important because it forces you to run your business like a public company, ensuring it is structured for sustainability, making it easier to pass on to the next generation or sell if the opportunity arises.

Connect & Discover David:

Instagram: @davidgrutman

Groot Hospitality: groothospitality.com

LinkedIn: David Grutman

TikTok: @davidgrutman

X: @DavidGrutman

Book: Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game

 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 

How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how).

Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life.

👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation.

This Memorial Day episode features reflections from figures like Chef Robert Irvine and Michelle Mace-Curren on military service and leadership. Delve into the deep driving forces behind dedication and self-sacrifice, exploring the critical role of preparation in overcoming impossible challenges.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- Chef Robert Irvine's mission to help those lost

- The reason behind a 30-year Air Force veteran's call for help

- Why micromanaging doesn't constitute leadership

- 4 principles for building strong, loyal teams

- The significance of 1% of the US population serving in the military

QUOTES THAT HIT

"Because there are people out there that need my help." - Memorial Day 

"If you're worried about something right now that your worry will not affect, you're wasting your energy." - Memorial Day 

"My because is simply because we're temporary." - Memorial Day 

CHAPTERS

00:03 Mick Unplugged: Your Because

00:46 Chef Irvine's Because: Helping Others

02:12 Tough Love and Relatability

05:48 Overcoming Impossible: Start with Chapter One

07:29 Empathetic Leadership: Beyond Micromanagement

10:51 Military Service: A Daughter-in-Law's Journey

17:03 My Because: A Free Nation

22:43 Robert J. Ono's Because: Family

28:02 Bin Laden Raid: The 90-Minute Flight

32:31 Preparation: Master the Basics

33:23 CZ Lopez: Purpose and Misfortunes

43:17 Michelle Mace-Curren: Legacy and Leadership

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What does Chef Robert Irvine consider his "because"?

A: Chef Robert Irvine says his "because" is that there are people out there who need his help, and he uses his platform for the betterment of others who are less fortunate.

Q: How does Michelle Mace-Curren define her "because" as an entrepreneur after military service?

A: Michelle Mace-Curren finds her "because" in creating her legacy now, seeing the tangible inspiration in front of her eyes when she gives keynote speeches, and knowing that her work impacts people's lives.

Q: Why is preparation essential for leaders, according to Robert J. Ono?

A: Robert J. Ono emphasizes that leaders must be prepared for contingencies and master the basics, because "you don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation."

Connect & Discover Our Memorial Day Heroes:

Chef Robert Irvine Website: ChefIrvine.com

Chef Robert Irvine Instagram: @chefirvine

Robert Irvine Foundation: RobertIrvineFoundation.org

JoAnne Bass LinkedIn: @jo-bass

JoAnne Bass Instagram: @thejoannebass

Rob O'Neill Website: RobONeill.com

Rob O'Neill Instagram: @mchooyah

CZ Lopez LinkedIn: @ramoncolonlopez

CZ Lopez Instagram: @therealczcolonlopez

Michelle "Mace" Curran Website: MaceCurran.com

Michelle "Mace" Curran Instagram: @mace.curran

Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer?

Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.

Grab your copy now and level up your life: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A MillionFOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast

LinkedIn: @mickhunt

Website: MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

 The story will keep you there.

This Mick Unplugged episode features JEFRË, a Public Artist and Creative Director. He explores how pivotal life experiences and a singular vision shaped his career, leading him to create monumental public art around the globe. Discover JEFRË’s journey from urban designer to iconic artist.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

- JEFRË's journey after a 35-year-old heart attack

- How to become a brand-collaborating artist

- The significance behind "Victor" in the Philippines

- Why brands seek creative leaders like JEFRË

- Developing art from community insights

QUOTES THAT HIT

"The story will keep you there." - JEFRË

"I'm getting cities and nations together to create icons or moments that they can identify with their own culture." - JEFRË

"The key is, is really engineering. That's where it is." - JEFRË

CHAPTERS

00:00 Mick Unplugged Introduction

02:30 JEFRË on legacy and creation

06:51 JEFRË's Filipino-American origin story

09:42 Heart attack, career change to artist

13:47 JEFRË's process for designing art

20:06 JEFRË on personal connections

24:43 Branding and entrepreneurship with JEFRË

31:54 New projects and Shark Art

QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS

Q: What motivated JEFRË to become an artist after a career in urban design?

A: JEFRË’s near-death experience from a heart attack at 35 prompted him to pursue creating impactful art immediately, shifting from long-term urban planning projects to direct artistic creation.

Q: How does JEFRË ensure his monumental public artworks resonate with communities?

A: JEFRË emphasizes listening to the community to understand their desires, then interpreting that input into his art. He believes the storyline derived from community engagement is more important than the scale of the artwork.

Q: What is "Shark Art" and how does Damon John support artists like JEFRË?

A: Shark Art is Damon John's initiative to support artists by providing management and business guidance. Damon helps artists like JEFRË navigate commercial aspects, manage their image, and secure licensing deals to expand their reach.

Connect & Discover Jefrë:

Instagram: @jefre_artist

Website: jefre.org

LinkedIn: JEFRË Studio

TikTok: @jefre_artist

 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 

How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how).

Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life.

👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website: MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Haley Sacks — better known as Mrs. Dow Jones — is the financial educator helping millions of people stop being weird about money and start building real wealth. Named Creator of the Year by Adweek, featured on Fortune's 40 Under 40, and dubbed by The Wall Street Journal as “the financial guru millennials listen to,” Haley has built a movement around making personal finance feel less like punishment and more like power. She's also the author of the brand-new book Future Rich Person: The New Rules for Building Wealth — a modernized, judgment-free playbook for anyone who's tired of the old advice that doesn't work anymore. This conversation is a masterclass in mindset, money, and why the old American Dream needs a complete rewrite.

Takeaways:

•       The Old American Dream Is Dead — Use the New Rules: Your parents' money playbook was built for a world that no longer exists. Pensions, affordable homes, single-employer careers, and predictable student debt are gone. Haley breaks down why financial literacy in 2026 has to include AI, business structures like LLCs and S-corps, retirement vehicles for entrepreneurs, and the negotiation tactics nobody taught you. If you're still playing by 1985 rules, you're already losing.

•       Money Magnifies Who You Already Are: There's no shame in wanting to be rich — money is just a tool that amplifies your character. If you're a giver, money lets you give bigger. If you want to take care of your family, build your community, or leave a job that doesn't serve you, wealth is the fuel that makes it possible. Drop the guilt, own the goal, and start building a financial life that matches the impact you want to have.

•       Money Etiquette Is a Wealth Skill: Money is energy — and how you carry yourself with it determines how it flows back to you. Holding too tight, nickel-and-diming, or being tone-deaf about other people's situations doesn't just hurt your relationships, it actually slows your wealth-building. Move with grace, lead with humor, communicate openly with your people, and treat money etiquette like a non-negotiable part of your financial education.

Sound Bytes:

“Money only magnifies who you are.” 

“The system was always created by the people that it serves.” 

“Money is energy. If you hold on to it too tight, it's not going to come to you as freely.”

Connect & Discover Haley:

Instagram: @mrsdowjones

Website: mrsdowjones.com

LinkedIn: @mrsdowjones

TikTok: @mrsdowjones

Book: Future Rich Person

 🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥 

How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how).

Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life.

👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rickey Smiley is a nationally beloved stand-up comedian, award-winning syndicated radio host, television personality, bestselling author, and one of the most authentic voices in entertainment today. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Rickey first captured America’s attention through his legendary prank phone calls and breakout performances on BET’s Comic View before building a media empire that includes The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, heard in over 70 cities nationwide. A two-time Marconi Award winner, Rickey has starred in multiple television series and specials, including his critically acclaimed Hulu comedy special Foolish. Beyond the laughs, Rickey is a devoted father, grandfather, mentor, and man of deep faith who uses his platform to uplift communities and inspire others. His bestselling memoir, Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith, chronicles his journey through unimaginable grief—including the loss of his eldest son Brandon—and stands as a powerful testament to resilience, service, and the healing power of purpose.

Takeaways:

• Give Your Kids What You Had, Not What You Didn’t: Rickey Smiley is unapologetic about raising his children and grandchildren with the same discipline, structure, and old-fashioned home training his grandparents gave him. No negotiations, no iPads as pacifiers, no coddling. In a world where everything right is being called wrong and everything wrong is being called right, Rickey stands firm—because the foundation that built him still works. If you liked who you became, give your kids the blueprint that made you, not the things you missed out on.

• Men, Put Your Ego Down and Get Help: Rickey Smiley performed comedy shows while crying backstage. He went back on the radio three days after burying his son because eight million listeners needed him. But behind closed doors, he sat on the steps of his kitchen and cried for days. This conversation is a direct message to men—you cannot be too big, too proud, or too successful to grieve, to seek therapy, and to talk about what you are carrying. Rickey’s honesty about his own mental health journey, and Mick’s personal testimony about how the book Sideshow pushed him into therapy, is the kind of real talk that saves lives.

• Help People, Protect Your Peace, and Pay It Forward: Rickey’s “because” is simple—he wakes up every day to serve, to bless, and to make somebody’s life better. But he also delivers a truth that every giver needs to hear: not everybody you help is going to appreciate it. Out of twenty people you pour into, maybe six or seven will say thank you. Be prepared for the disappointment, protect your peace fiercely, and keep pouring anyway—because that is the assignment. Our grandparents and teachers made personal sacrifices so we could have what we have, and the only proper response is to pay it forward.

Sound Bytes:

“I told God a long time ago, hey, if you get me out of this rut right here, I promise you, I’ll serve you to the day I die and try to make somebody life better because of the things that you bless me with.”

“You literally on stage, doing joke, doing comedy, performing while you crying on the inside.”

“I think that what my grandparents and my parents did for me, it worked for me. It was critical to my development. And if it worked for me, it should work for my kids, because it still works.”

Connect & Discover Rickey:

Instagram: @rickeysmileyofficial

Facebook: @RickeySmileyOfficial

YouTube: @RickeySmileyOfficial

TikTok: @rickeysmileydigital

Website: RickeySmiley.com

Show: The Rickey Smiley Morning Show

Book: Sideshow: Living with Loss and Moving Forward with Faith

🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥

Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 

👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million

FOLLOW MICK ON:

Spotify: MickUnplugged

Instagram: @mickunplugged 

Facebook: @mickunplugged

YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast 

LinkedIn: @mickhunt 

Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com

Website: howtobeagoodleader.com

Website: Leadloudseries.com

Apple: MickUnplugged

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.