Beyond the Horizon Podcast

The conversation dives deep into the psychology of sales, overcoming self-doubt, and the tension between artistry and business. They also explore how AI is rapidly transforming music creation, and what that means for producers, musicians, and the future of the industry. If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or someone navigating uncertainty in your career, this episode offers powerful perspective and practical mindset shifts you won’t want to miss.

Chris Amaral shares the inspiration behind her book “Ask a Question. The Door Will Open” and how a single student interaction sparked a lifelong mission to help others step outside their comfort zones. From teaching for 35 years to shaping countless careers, she dives into the importance of curiosity, mentorship, and being proactive—especially in a world where technology is replacing face-to-face interaction.

Neil Broere shares the heart behind his upcoming book Liminal: The Delicate Space Between Breaths, unpacking how seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and even suffering are often where God does His most important work. From the story of Wilbur Wright to deep theological discussions on salvation, backsliding, and the end times, this episode is filled with raw honesty and thought-provoking insight.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Jacqui Renshaw, the Event Manager at Shelter Social Club, for a powerful conversation about personal growth, community, and navigating the unexpected turns life throws your way.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with creative director and Vamped agency founder Lindsey Heppner to unpack her journey from fashion school in Orange County to becoming one of the OG architects of influencer marketing. 

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt Franchina sits down with David Yardley for a masterclass in systems, scale, and responsible leadership. From breaking down the difference between commodity and specialty coffee to managing 120+ employees, David explains what it really takes to build something sustainable. This isn’t just about coffee — it’s about eliminating mission creep, auditing your systems before they break, and learning how to “see around two corners” as a leader.

In thisepisode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Pastor Michael Dow of Habitation Church and founder of Burning Ones. What begins as a conversation about house churches and biblical community quickly turns into a gripping testimony of radical transformation.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Ben Cook, founder of Hangar 24 Brewery, pilot, sailor, and lifelong entrepreneur. Ben shares the unlikely journey from backyard homebrewing at a small airport to building one of Southern California’s most recognizable craft breweries. Along the way, they dig into leadership, faith, friction, and what it really takes to build a business that lasts decades. From managing resistance to change, to aligning incentives in business, to finding meaning beyond growth, this conversation blends entrepreneurship, spirituality, and hard-earned wisdom in a grounded, real-world way.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Mikey Taylor — professional skateboarder turned entrepreneur and current Mayor of Thousand Oaks — for a deep, unfiltered conversation about identity, faith, leadership, and responsibility. Mikey opens up about transitioning out of a legendary skateboarding career, navigating the loss of identity that followed, and how entrepreneurship became a new proving ground. The conversation goes far beyond business, touching on faith, public scrutiny, fatherhood, political pressure, and what it truly means to lead when the stakes are real. From facing online attacks and death threats to learning how to surrender control, this episode is an honest look at purpose, conviction, and living authentically in public life.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Sina Azari, strategic business coach, author, and multi-business operator, for a wide-ranging conversation on time creation, leverage, AI, leadership, and living life by design. The episode kicks off with the creation of brand-new AI-generated intro music live in the studio, then dives deep into how high performers multiply their impact by delegating, leveraging technology, and focusing only on the highest and best use of their time.Timestamps 00:00 – Creating AI intro music live in the studio 04:00 – Official welcome to Beyond the Horizon 05:30 – Creating time and space instead of chasing hours 07:00 – The “168 hours” mindset and delegation at scale 10:15 – The 4 rules for the highest and best use of your time 12:00 – Humans vs AI: why technology is winning 15:55 – The 51 Laws and compounding productivity 18:10 – Missionaries vs mercenaries in leadership 19:00 – Episode sponsor: Policy Engineer Insurance Solutions 24:00 – Fitness discipline, reps vs weight, and consistency 27:30 – Living life by design vs by default 29:00 – How habits predict your future 32:10 – Interest vs commitment explained 36:00 – Building, scaling, and exiting businesses 37:30 – The Tom Ferry story and walking in the right shoes 42:50 – Small moments that change everything

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt Franchina sits down with Nicky, founder of Fuerza Pilates Studio, to explore how Pilates has become a critical performance and longevity tool for NFL players and elite athletes. Nicky shares how she built a private, high-performance Pilates business, why professional athletes are moving away from traditional training methods, and how she’s scaling her expertise toward a bigger long-term vision.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, we sit down with Bryan Anderson, a 15-year 911 dispatcher and manager with the San Diego Fire Department, to unpack the weight of life-or-death calls, leadership under pressure, and the human side of emergency response. Bryan shares powerful stories from behind the headset, what it takes to stay calm when others are panicking, and how compassion and adaptability save lives in moments of crisis. He also opens up about his personal journey—losing over 260 pounds naturally after reaching nearly 600 pounds—and reflects on identity, coping, and rebuilding a healthier relationship with life, food, and purpose.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt shares six truths for 2026 that will remain true no matter where you’re coming from or what last year looked like. From growing closer to God, to being intentional about memories, health, money, and purpose, this conversation is about living with intention and design instead of drifting through another year. If you’re setting goals, resetting habits, or simply asking what really matters in 2026, this episode is meant to encourage you to look further and live beyond the horizon you’ve known.

In Episode 15 of Beyond the Horizon, we complete the situational leadership series by shifting from the explorer’s journey to the leader’s responsibility. This episode breaks down how great leaders guide people through growth without crushing confidence or creating confusion. Using the Situational Leadership model (D1–D4 / S1–S4), we explore how leadership must evolve as people move from excitement, to discouragement, to competence, and finally to ownership. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, a business, or simply influencing those around you, this episode offers a practical framework for meeting people where they are — and helping them grow into leaders themselves.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, we kick off Part 1 of a two-part series on Situational Leadership by focusing on the Explorer—anyone starting something new. Using the proven leadership framework developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, this episode breaks down the four developmental stages (D1–D4) that everyone experiences when pursuing a new goal, career, or calling. From early excitement and self-doubt to earned confidence and true ownership, this conversation offers practical guidance, real-life examples, and mindset shifts to help you push through discouragement, stay committed, and finish what you start.

In this episode of "Beyond the Horizon," we dive into the timeless wisdom of Earl Nightingale's "The Strangest Secret" and explore how long-term goal-setting and self-awareness can transform your journey. We unpack the importance of building a progressive mindset, the power of proximity, and the role of belief and action in achieving meaningful success. Tune in for practical insights and motivational steps to make 2026 your best year yet!

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt Franchina sits down with Neil Broere, an author and Bible teacher, to dive deep into themes of obedience, suffering, and reward. They explore Neil's journey, including his experiences in Iraq, the significance of prophetic words, and the power of fasting. Tune in for an authentic and inspiring conversation that bridges faith and real-life experiences.

In this solo episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt dives deep into navigating the different seasons of life—from business struggles and personal burnout to faith, family, and rebuilding with purpose. Matt shares honest insight on entrepreneurship, leadership, surrender, and mental resilience while opening up about a two-year season of challenges that reshaped how he views success. He breaks down the pressure of running a business, the importance of auditing your life, the power of surrendering control to God, and how prioritizing family over hustle changed everything. Matt also reflects on a transformative 14-month RV trip across the country and the lessons it taught him about presence, gratitude, and clarity. If you're an entrepreneur, parent, leader, or anyone navigating a tough season, this episode offers guidance, encouragement, and perspective to help you see beyond the horizon.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt Franchina sits down with coaching consultant Ryan James Miller for an honest, vulnerable conversation about faith, fatherhood, marriage, personal discipline, overcoming past mistakes, and navigating the cultural challenges facing families today. Ryan opens up about his daughter’s powerful story involving her boyfriend’s near-death medical crisis, the long-term impact of purity and commitment in relationships, raising strong daughters in a shifting world, building the SOS sales system, his Men of Greatness community, and the intense reality of running for local office. This episode blends practical wisdom, deep personal stories, and hard conversations that many men need but rarely hear.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt Franchina sits down with videographer and photographer Richard Eggers for a deeper, unexpected conversation about creativity, career paths, and the experiences that shape who we become. What starts as a chat about cameras and storytelling expands into Richard’s unique upbringing inside a long-term care home, witnessing end-of-life moments from childhood, and how that perspective now influences his work, fatherhood, and approach to life. They also explore the shift from stable employment to the uncertainty of creative independence, and what it means to trust your instincts when stepping into a new season. If you enjoy honest conversations that blend creative insight with real human experience, you’ll get a lot out of this one. Make sure to like, subscribe, and follow the show so you never miss an episode.

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt sits down with Drew D’Angelo — real estate developer, agent, and founder of Sky Sail Coastal Development — for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about faith, business, and redemption. From losing everything and rebuilding his life through sobriety to leading multimillion-dollar developments in Newport Beach, Drew opens up about the lessons that shaped him: discernment, humility, and the balance between ambition and gratitude.

In this episode, we sit down with Kody Fairfield and Josh Pagtalunan, owners and operators of CrossFit Anaheim - to talking about the journey of building not just a gym, but a thriving community. Whether you’re a business owner, athlete, or just someone chasing growth, this conversation offers real insight into perseverance, partnership, and purpose. #BeyondTheHorizonPodcast #CrossFitAnaheim #Entrepreneurship #FitnessCommunity #SmallBusiness #CrossFit #PersonalGrowth

In this episode, Matt dives deep into the idea that luck isn’t random — it’s the intersection of skill, preparation, and opportunity. From mastering your craft to recognizing the right moment to act, Matt breaks down how you can take control of your “luck” and turn opportunity into momentum. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or just trying to level up your mindset, this episode challenges you to stop waiting for luck — and start preparing for it. CONNECT WITH ME Website: https://policyengineer.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesadvisor Like, comment, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. #BeyondTheHorizon #MattFranchina #Mindset #Motivation #SelfGrowth #Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, I sit down with Shannon Decker (@ShannonShape)  a personal trainer, coach, and woman of deep faith who’s helped countless people find strength through fitness and service. We talk about kindness, adversity, survival mode, and surrendering control — the powerful internal shifts that shape who we become. Shannon shares her journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming one of L.A.’s top trainers, and how she continues to live a life rooted in purpose, generosity, and gratitude.We also explore how trauma, faith, and resilience intersect — and what it truly means to grow beyond your limits and live “Beyond the Horizon.”Follow Shannon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonshape/CONNECT WITH MEWebsite: https://policyengineer.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesadvisor/SUBSCRIBE & STAY CONNECTED:🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations that inspire, challenge, and motivate#BeyondTheHorizon #GoalSetting #PersonalDevelopment

In this solo episode, I dive deep into the philosophy of "If you wait until you're ready, you may wait forever". The core message is why thinking and seeking Beyond the Horizon is crucial for chasing ambitions and being prepared for the unexpected challenges that will inevitably come your way.I share my own journey of overcoming imposter syndrome and excuses to finally launch this podcast, providing living proof that you cannot wait for the perfect moment or for complete readiness. I break down how the number one thing that prevents people from moving forward is fear.Learn how to recognize that your internal feeling is the true indicator that you are ready. I discuss the powerful acronym for fear: F.E.A.R. - False Evidence Appearing Real. Ultimately, I challenge you to confront the biggest fear of all: the fear of wondering what would happen if you didn't try. This episode will inspire you to take immediate action and start moving toward whatever has been on your heart.CONNECT WITH MEWebsite: https://policyengineer.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesadvisor/SUBSCRIBE & STAY CONNECTED:🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations that inspire, challenge, and motivate#BeyondTheHorizon #GoalSetting #PersonalDevelopment #FEAR #FalseEvidenceAppearingReal #Entrepreneurship #SelfImprovement #Motivation #SuccessMindset

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, host Matt sits down with Mark Evans DM – “The Deal Maker” – to talk about what it really takes to win in life and business.Mark shares his journey from growing up in a trailer park to becoming a multi-millionaire entrepreneur, real estate investor, and author.They dive deep into:Why you must know why you’re doing what you’re doingHow to stop lighting your own fires as an entrepreneurThe danger of being a solopreneurThe difference between making money and keeping itWhy success leaves cluesHow to find freedom, not just wealth #Entrepreneurship #MarkEvansDM #BeyondTheHorizonPodcast #BusinessMindset #SuccessLeavesClues #RealEstateInvesting

In this episode, I dive deep into the concept of "Beyond the Horizon" and why thinking bigger than your current perspective is crucial for achieving extraordinary results in life.I share the origin story of how this podcast came to be, break down three powerful goal-setting frameworks (10X Rule, BHAG, and SMART Goals), and get real about the challenges my brother and I faced building our business. This isn't just about setting big goals—it's about preparing for the storms, obstacles, and unexpected challenges that come with pursuing uncharted territory. Whether you're chasing financial, physical, spiritual, or relational goals, this episode will challenge you to look further than you ever have before and prepare you for the journey ahead.  #BeyondTheHorizon #GoalSetting #PersonalDevelopment #10XRule #Entrepreneurship #SelfImprovement #Motivation #BusinessGrowth #SuccessMindset

In this episode of Beyond the Horizon, Matt Franchina sits down with Sean Whalen, CEO of Lions Not Sheep and leader of The Lions Den, for an unfiltered and motivating conversation about responsibility, legacy, and living without compromise.Sean opens up about why men need to “get their house in order” before trying to change the world, the life experiences that turned him into a passionate advocate for term life insurance, and why extreme ownership is the key to building wealth, strong relationships, and lasting impact. From breaking generational cycles to building a 500-acre family ranch, Sean’s perspective on discipline, honesty, and perseverance is both challenging and inspiring.Whether you’re chasing big entrepreneurial dreams, preparing for your family’s future, or seeking the motivation to make bold moves, this episode delivers powerful insights and real-world wisdom.Connect with Sean Whalen: Lions Not Sheep Coaching – lionsnotsheepcoaching.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesadvisor/https://www.instagram.com/seanwwhalen/Subscribe and leave a comment to keep these conversations going and help inspire others to live intentionally.#BeyondTheHorizon #MattFranchina #SeanWhalen #LionsNotSheep #Entrepreneurship #ExtremeOwnership #LifeInsurance #Mindset