Fueled By Progress

🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Kas27lxen4🛠️ Hire me to implement AI in your business: https://mjs.link/work?s=fbp-ep97🎓 Join my community and learn how to leverage AI: https://mjs.link/mbs?s=fbp-ep97💡 Book a 1:1 advisory call with me: https://mjs.link/advisory?s=fbp-ep97🎙️ About this episode with Lars FayeLars Faye is a self taught developer with about fifteen years in the trenches, co founder of Chee Studio in Buffalo, and the guy who wrote "Agentic Coding is a Trap." That article hit the front page of Hacker News, got read on air by Theo (t3.gg), and got covered by Cal Newport. He and I actually met arguing about this stuff in the comments on LinkedIn, so this conversation is the long version of that argument.We trace his whole path first: five years old on an MS DOS prompt, a computer repair job he hated, his wife telling him he could just do it himself, first client websites in 2008 right as the economy collapsed, then going all in on agency work.Then we get into it. Lars is not anti AI. He uses agents every day and says every developer alive wants to type less. His argument is that there is no free lunch, that the tools which make you fast are the same tools that quietly stop you from learning, and that only a sharp developer can catch what a model gets wrong. We cover why he thinks the real problem is composition rather than code quality, what he means when he says the agents start to own you, why pointing an LLM at your own back catalog makes you stagnant, and the part I did not expect, which is that he thinks LLMs are going to cause the biggest surge of real programmers in history.I pushed back on a lot of this. He pushed back on me. If you are a builder trying to figure out how hard to lean into agents without hollowing yourself out, this is the conversation.Read the article: https://larsfaye.com/articles/agentic-coding-is-a-trap🔗 Connect with Lars FayeWebsite: https://larsfaye.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@larsfayedevLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larsfaye/Company: Chee Studio https://cheewebdevelopment.com🔗 Connect with Mark SzymanskiWebsite: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/fb?s=fbp-ep97Instagram: https://mjs.link/ig?s=fbp-ep97LinkedIn: https://mjs.link/li?s=fbp-ep97X: https://mjs.link/x?s=fbp-ep97YouTube: https://mjs.link/yt?s=fbp-ep97🎧 About this showFueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.If you're new here, welcome. If you've been here since episodes recorded in my car, thank you. We're still just getting warmed up 💪🆓 Free Value- Get your AI Resource Bundle: https://mjs.link/resources?s=fbp-ep97- Full AI Crash Course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1cd_ntgOuY- Claude Code Beginner's Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0nJ_8_77Yg- Follow my thinking between videos: https://mjs.link/newsletter?s=fbp-ep97⏱️ Chapters00:00 Cold open00:40 Intro05:56 Meet Lars Faye06:25 The article that went viral, and Theo reading it on air07:42 Where "agentic coding is a trap" actually came from16:14 You need a job to get expertise and expertise to get a job23:08 Self taught from MS DOS, computer repair, and going solo26:14 First websites in 2008, then going all in on agencies36:05 Right tool for the job, and the sites nobody ever touches37:57 Why developers get ossified in one stack45:14 Writing custom blocks, and learning to love Gutenberg47:25 Building brand guardrails clients can't break52:27 Two ways into business, and the e myth trap55:57 I don't sell a tech solution, I sell the collaboration59:16 Enter AI1:01:09 Every developer wants to type less1:06:19 Cursor, OpenCode, and moving to Chinese models1:10:20 The three ways people actually use AI1:14:56 Why he won't hook an agent up to his Gmail1:16:25 Would he let an agent build the whole site?1:23:23 Code quality is fine, composition is the problem1:24:22 At that point, the agents own you1:27:55 Point an LLM at your old work and you go stagnant1:31:51 There's no such thing as a free lunch1:34:13 What happens to a generation missing expertise1:39:46 You can't learn to cook by watching1:40:49 Why a surge of real programmers is coming1:44:33 The steelman, the personal computer and the secretary1:47:21 Why he's long term optimistic1:51:29 We're arguing in front of the 0.01%1:53:26 Have LLMs already plateaued?1:56:00 Where to find Lars📃 Ethics Statement: https://markszymanski.co/policies/ethics-statement/

🛠️ Hire me to implement AI in your business: https://markszymanski.co/work-with-me🎓 Join my community and learn how to leverage AI: https://ModernBuildersSociety.com💡 Book a 1:1 advisory call with me: https://markszymanski.co/advisory🎙️ About this episode with Caleb RalstonCaleb Ralston is the brand strategist behind some of the biggest names online. He scaled Gary Vaynerchuk's TikTok from 300K to 3.5 million in three months, built an 18 person media team that generated billions of organic impressions for Alex and Leila Hormozi, and then stepped out on his own to teach founders how to do this for themselves. In this conversation we trace that whole path (carrying lights at his church, the Crush It book that changed everything, Team Gary, VaynerMedia, and the leap to going solo) and then get into the frameworks he teaches now. We cover why most people build a prison instead of a brand, what Gary really meant by document don't create, the student vs expert distinction that tells you exactly how to position yourself, why niching down is non-negotiable even though everyone tells you not to, the name as brand play behind Ralston, and how he uses AI as a multiplier of his own thinking instead of a source. If you have ever felt like you should be putting yourself out there but do not know how to start without sounding like everyone else, this one is for you.Watch Caleb's 6-hour course on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch4Sl0POBhU🔗 Connect with Caleb RalstonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CalebRalstonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebralstonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebralstonX: https://x.com/calebralstonWebsite: https://calebralston.com🔗 Connect with Mark SzymanskiWebsite: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YT🎧 About this showFueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.If you're new here, welcome. If you've been here since episodes recorded in my car, thank you. We're still just getting warmed up 💪🆓 Free Value- Get your AI Resource Bundle: https://markszymanski.co/ai-crash-course-resources- Full AI Crash Course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1cd_ntgOuY- Claude Code Beginner's Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0nJ_8_77Yg- Follow my thinking between videos: https://mjs.link/Newsletter⏱️ Chapters00:00 Intro04:25 Meet Caleb Ralston05:23 Carrying lights to GaryVee, VaynerMedia, and the Hormozis14:08 Why he finally bet on himself19:30 Getting the guts to step in front of the camera20:33 A personal brand vs a prison you are stuck in22:52 Why most founders can't brand themselves28:23 What Gary really meant by document, don't create32:18 Student vs expert, and picking your pond38:03 Why niching down is non-negotiable41:18 The name as brand play, rebranding Ralston46:20 Show your persona while dispensing expertise49:02 The lines he won't cross55:33 AI as a multiplier, not a source59:54 Where to find Caleb📃 Ethics Statement: https://markszymanski.co/policies/ethics-statement/

🛠️ Hire me to implement AI in your business: https://markszymanski.co/work-with-me🎓 Join my community and learn how to leverage AI: https://ModernBuildersSociety.com💡 Book a 1:1 advisory call with me: https://markszymanski.co/advisory  🎙️ About this episode with Mansel ScheffelMansel Scheffel is an independent AI builder and consultant (AtomicOps) breaking down what actually works in production with Claude Code, agentic workflows, and AI automation. He went from a hungover 22 year old pianist in South Africa to a solo consultant landing some of the largest banks and governments in the world, all without a degree and without ever hiring full time staff. In this conversation we trace that whole path (the leap to London, learning Splunk by getting thrown to the wolves, and the intermediary layer playbook he used to reach clients a solo operator should never have been able to reach) and then bring it into the present, where he runs his AI consulting business AtomicOps alongside a fast growing YouTube channel and community. We get into the no hype, no doom view of AI that we both share, the Anthropic billing change that just broke a lot of the elaborate AIOS builds people sell on YouTube, why he builds constraints first, and how he thinks about vibe coding, security, and what a software engineer is actually worth in a world where the model writes the code. If you are a builder or a solo consultant trying to figure out what actually ships, this one is for you.  🔗 Connect with Mansel ScheffelAI Transformation Academy (Skool community): https://www.skool.com/ainativeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mansel-scheffel/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mansel.scheffel  🔗 Connect with Mark SzymanskiWebsite: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YT  🎧 About this showFueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.  If you're new here, welcome. If you've been here since episodes recorded in my car, thank you. We're still just getting warmed up 💪   🆓 Free Value - Get your AI Resource Bundle: https://markszymanski.co/ai-crash-course-resources - Full AI Crash Course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1cd_ntgOuY - Claude Code Beginner's Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0nJ_8_77Yg - Follow my thinking between videos: https://mjs.link/Newsletter   ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Intro 04:00 What Mansel does now (banks, cybersecurity, AI, solo) 07:54 South Africa to London at 22 10:25 Splunk, the first big bank, going solo 14:14 The worst risk is not taking the risk 17:59 The first solo year and land and expand 20:00 The intermediary layer playbook 22:48 Big clients vs small, and why he started a community 33:38 Starting YouTube and content as lead gen 46:48 No hype, no doom, and who is actually watching 50:01 The Anthropic billing change and constraints first 59:41 The community and the live workshop playbook 1:07:24 Syntax vs orchestration and vibe coding 1:14:38 Making AI builds secure, and the future software engineer 1:25:23 The AI skeptic at the family table   📃 Ethics Statement: https://markszymanski.co/policies/ethics-statement/

🛠️ Hire me to implement AI in your business: https://markszymanski.co/work-with-me🎓 Join my community and learn how to leverage AI: https://ModernBuildersSociety.com💡 Book a 1:1 advisory call with me: https://markszymanski.co/advisory🎙️ About this episode with Jake GoldmanJake Goldman is the founder of 10up, the WordPress agency he scaled to about $45 million in revenue and roughly 300 people over twelve and a half years, before merging it into Fueled and stepping into a partner role. We get into how he started, why he deliberately built a company that was never about him personally, what it looks like to live through the AI transformation as a founder instead of just commenting on it, why he believes customers will keep paying agencies even as AI does more of the work, and his closing call to install one of the tools this weekend and just go try making something you didn't think you could.🔗 Connect with Jake GoldmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobgoldman/Fueled: https://fueled.com10up: https://10up.com🔗 Connect with Mark SzymanskiWebsite: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YT🎧 About this showFueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.If you're new here, welcome. If you've been here since episodes recorded in my car, thank you. We're still just getting warmed up 💪🆓 Free Value- Get your AI Resource Bundle: https://markszymanski.co/ai-crash-course-resources- Full AI Crash Course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1cd_ntgOuY- Claude Code Beginner's Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0nJ_8_77Yg- Follow my thinking between videos: https://mjs.link/Newsletter⏱️ Chapters00:00 Cold open00:41 Mark's intro05:48 Meet Jake Goldman: how he started 10up12:42 Scaling 10up to $45M and 300 people18:06 Joyful UX and the developer mindset23:50 Jake's day to day at Fueled now25:34 Going all in on AI tooling37:18 Why this AI shift is genuinely different39:13 The "golden era" that minted today's web devs45:03 Personal brand vs entity brand49:49 Why customers still want humans accountable for code01:20:00 Emotion, defensiveness, and the AI debate01:32:49 Jake's advice: just go try and make something01:34:44 Mark's closing thoughts📃 Ethics Statement: https://markszymanski.co/policies/ethics-statement/

💡If you like how I think about business, technology, and systems on Fueled By Progress, you can find the best way to work with me or learn more at https://markszymanski.co/startThis is a conversation with Josh Hall about building and selling his web design agency, transitioning to courses and community, the identity shifts that come with entrepreneurial evolution, and why being present for family is the real endgame.🔗 Connect with Josh Hall:Web Designer Pro: https://webdesignerpro.com/Personal Website: https://joshhall.co/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshhallco/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshhallco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshhallco/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoshHallco🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark SzymanskiProduction --- Nathaniel DeHaven (https://elevatedmultimedia.com)Chapters:0:00 Cold Open0:40 Mark's Intro5:29 Welcome and the Freedom of Working From Home6:18 Topics Preview: Family, Business, and Community8:07 Josh's Origin Story: Cabinet Maker to Web Designer10:50 How the Band Translated to Business13:05 The Evolution of Web Design Over 15 Years16:05 Why Websites Became the Digital Hub19:38 The Rise of DIYers and Visual Builders24:04 Web Designers as Digital Strategists25:38 Selling the Agency and Going Full-Time Teaching27:06 What It Means to Be a Community Builder at Heart30:56 The Learn Build Teach Model37:55 Knowing When You're Meant for More Than Service Work43:18 Delayed Gratification and Passion Projects49:48 What Gets You Here Won't Get You There53:11 The Trajectory from Courses to Community59:57 Moving from Lifetime Access to Membership1:03:12 Staying Relevant After Leaving the Trenches1:09:57 Identity Shifts as You Evolve1:15:22 Content Strategy Going Forward1:21:08 Delegating and Building Mini-Coaches1:25:43 AI and the Future of Web Design1:34:36 How Web Designers Should Use AI1:40:08 Why Family Matters More Than the Business1:44:41 Wherever You Are, Be There1:48:03 Structuring Work Around Family1:54:53 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Josh

💡If you like how I think about business, technology, and systems on Fueled By Progress, you can find the best way to work with me or learn more at https://markszymanski.co/startA candid conversation with Kia Ghasem about building an AI automation agency at 25 years old, why most AI solutions fail to deliver ROI, the trap of YouTube-dependent lead generation, and how he's pivoting from content creation back to product and service.🔗 Connect with Kia Ghasem:Website: https://kamexa.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kia-ghasemX: https://x.com/KiaxGhasemYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KiaGhasem🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a long-form conversation series with builders, operators, and thinkers exploring business, technology, and what it actually takes to build a meaningful life in a modern world.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark SzymanskiProduction --- Nathaniel DeHaven (https://elevatedmultimedia.com)Chapters:0:00 Intro0:28 Welcome and Kia's Background1:06 How Mark Found Kia on YouTube2:00 Kia's Origin Story - Computer Science to AI3:45 Getting Started in the AI Agency Space5:05 The Hard Truth About Early AI Sales6:42 Finding Solutions That Actually Bring ROI8:00 When Will AI Agents Actually Work9:01 Mark's Journey from WordPress to AI10:41 Working with Overwhelmed Business Owners13:00 Systems Thinking vs AI Hype14:06 Personal Branding and The Ecosystem Breakdown16:26 Building Unintentionally - YouTube, School, Agency19:07 Why Kia Chose Agency Over Content Creation20:00 The YouTube Lead Gen Problem23:02 DIY, DWY, DFY Ladder Explained24:18 Moving Toward Product26:06 The Gap - From Uni to Agency27:55 The 5AM Epiphany That Started Everything28:02 Did Entrepreneurship Come Naturally31:49 Social Media and The Comparison Trap33:33 Content Consumption Strategy36:01 Does YouTube Still Power the Agency39:40 Scaling Without Being the Content Guy41:40 Self-Awareness in Business43:44 Problem Solving Over Sales45:03 Team Structure - Staying Lean46:52 Niching Into Marketing Agencies49:01 Dealing with Unqualified Leads52:02 N8N, Code, and Service Delivery Breakdown57:58 When to Use No-Code vs Custom Software1:00:03 The 35-Interview Audit Lesson1:04:01 Three Interviews Is All You Need1:07:01 Building Community in the AI Space1:12:03 Will We Go Back to Anonymous Internet1:15:53 The Future of Content - Live Streaming1:17:46 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Kia

💡If you like how I think about business, technology, and systems on Fueled By Progress, you can find the best way to work with me or learn more at https://markszymanski.co/startJulian Galluzzo shares how dropping out of school at 13, building agencies, and embracing AI-driven development reshaped his career — and why speed, curiosity, and progress matter more than credentials.🔗 Connect with Julian Galluzzo:Website: https://juliangalluzzo.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-galluzzo-610379173X: https://x.com/galluzzo_julianYouTube: https://youtube.com/@galluzzojulian🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark Szymanski: https://markszymanski.co/linksVideo/Audio Production --- Nathaniel DeHaven: https://elevatedmultimedia.comChapters:0:00 Introducing Julian Galluzzo4:03 From Freelancing to Running a 40-Person Agency8:35 Why Speed Beats Perfection13:48 How One Client Turned Into an Agency17:23 When Building Turns Into Managing Everything22:06 Leaving the Agency to Reclaim the Craft24:54 Getting Fired and Accidentally Stealing an Agency28:40 Joining Memberstack and Finding the Right Environment33:21 Webflow vs WordPress From a Builder’s Perspective41:14 Why WordPress Isn’t Outdated49:00 The Moment AI Changed Everything53:10 Building Real Apps With Claude and Gemini59:02 Training AI to Design Better Than Humans1:04:28 Why Knowing the Stack Still Matters1:10:56 Is Vibe Coding Legit or Dangerous1:18:53 Engineering Thinking vs Knowing Syntax1:24:24 Do You Actually Want to Be the Boss1:28:44 Would He Recommend Dropping Out of School1:35:02 What Julian Is Actually Optimizing For1:38:21 Where to Follow Julian’s Work

💡If you like how I think about business, technology, and systems on Fueled By Progress, you can find the best way to work with me or learn more at https://markszymanski.co/startStephanie Hudson shares her journey from freelance web developer to FocusWP founder, including how surviving a coma taught her the critical importance of business continuity planning that most solopreneurs completely ignore.🔗 Connect with Stephanie Hudson:Website: https://focuswp.coFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.hudsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/left-brainX: https://x.com/stepherrifficYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FocusWP🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark Szymanski: https://markszymanski.co/linksVideo/Audio Production --- Nathaniel DeHaven: https://elevatedmultimedia.comChapters:0:00 – Introducing Stephanie Hudson2:25 – Growing Up in the 'Burgh (High School Colors & Sports Culture)6:55 – Stephanie's Journey: From Pittsburgh to LA to North Carolina10:50 – Discovering the WordPress Community13:34 – The Hidden Ecosystem Behind WordPress18:55 – How Focus on Your Biz Facebook Group Started22:24 – Early Web Days: Dial-Up, Dreamweaver & Tables29:19 – Meeting Tom & Starting Focus WP36:41 – The Visionary vs. Integrator Problem (Rocket Fuel)42:08 – Freelancer Struggles & Imposter Syndrome48:43 – The Niche Discussion: Service vs. Audience54:58 – Niching Into a Service (Not Just an Industry)1:04:50 – The Coma Story: Getting "Hit by a Bus" for Real1:09:22 – What Is a Continuity Plan?1:14:37 – Password Managers & 2FA: Critical Single Points of Failure1:23:38 – Pittsburgh Pride: Heinz Ketchup & Ranch Culture1:29:00 – Mark's Content Strategy & Daily Videos Discussion1:39:38 – Stephanie's Community Platform Dilemma (Facebook vs. Fluent)1:49:30 – Body Doubling & ADHD Co-Working Ideas1:56:57 – The 3D Glasses Website & Accessibility Controversy2:02:25 – Agency Safety Net: The New Course & Service

⚡Want to build a business that actually works? My team at Motive11 can help—websites, systems, and strategy for modern entrepreneurs → https://motive11.comA deep, raw conversation with Spencer Forman about the real state of WordPress, the entrepreneurial mindset, the cycles of reinvention, and how to build a life and business that actually makes sense.🔗 Connect with Spencer Forman:Website: https://spencerforman.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/spenceformanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/spencerformanLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/spencerformanX: https://x.com/spencerformanYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WPLaunchify🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark Szymanski: https://markszymanski.co/linksVideo/Audio Production --- Nathaniel DeHaven: https://elevatedmultimedia.comChapters:0:00 – Introducing Spencer Forman1:56 – Starting the Conversation3:34 – Why Mark Started the Podcast4:12 – Shared Entrepreneurial Energy5:02 – The Three Stages of Life5:43 – Reinvention vs Comfort6:35 – Balancing Money, Ethics, and Happiness7:16 – Comparison Is Poison8:13 – Happiness vs Money Over a Lifetime9:04 – Life Journeys, Setbacks, and Perspective10:11 – Are We in a Human Reality Game?10:36 – Finding Tribe and Identity11:00 – Entrepreneurs as Problem Solvers12:03 – Jumping Between Industries12:34 – Entrepreneurs vs Employees13:35 – Developing the Entrepreneurial Instinct15:02 – Early Stories of Hustle16:03 – The Pattern of Reinvention17:11 – Seeing the Dots in Hindsight18:57 – Why Mark Is Wired This Way20:02 – Documenting Life and Introspection21:03 – Journaling Through Hard Times22:50 – Stoicism and Preparedness24:38 – Looking Back at Hard Seasons26:04 – Why Many Entrepreneurs Start After Crisis28:05 – The Real Goal: Enough, Not Infinite29:04 – The Boat Builder Parable30:02 – Modern Wealth and Power Dynamics31:22 – Escaping the Billion-Dollar Mindset32:33 – What Money Actually Changes33:26 – The Catalyst That Finally Forces Action35:29 – Financial Illusions and True Needs37:04 – Building the Nut First39:49 – When the Rug Gets Pulled Out41:06 – The Monopoly Analogy43:03 – Why the Middle Class Got Squeezed45:06 – Can We Fix It?47:02 – Should Everyone Be an Entrepreneur?48:01 – The World Needs All Roles50:07 – How Boomers Broke the System52:05 – The Coming Reset53:46 – You Can’t Predict the Chaos55:27 – Focus on What You Can Control56:56 – Stop Worrying About What You Can’t Control58:23 – Serenity, Stoicism, Reality1:00:14 – Cause and Effect, Energy, Momentum1:01:32 – WordPress Today: Problems and Potential1:02:37 – What People Truly Need from WordPress1:03:28 – Spencer’s Free-Call Strategy1:04:47 – Mark’s Identity Problem: What Do You Sell?1:05:50 – The Need for a Clear Niche1:07:00 – Mark’s Superpowers: Data, Architecture, Systems1:08:26 – Listening to the Market1:10:00 – Mark’s Cycles of Obsession1:11:09 – No Offers, No Sales Process1:13:00 – You Can’t Sell Everything to Everyone1:15:04 – The Value Ladder Reality Check1:16:11 – Avoiding the Consultant Trap1:18:02 – Reverse-Engineering the $30K Month Goal1:20:06 – Messaging, Offers, and CTAs1:21:40 – Reinventing When the Business Gets Heavy1:23:10 – You Can’t Scale Doing Everything1:25:02 – Productizing and Automating the Craft1:26:21 – Why Mark Hasn’t Been Selling1:28:01 – The Campfire Story of WordPress1:29:59 – Understanding WordPress Lore1:32:00 – The Emotional History of WordPress

⚡Want to build a business that actually works? My team at Motive11 can help—websites, systems, and strategy for modern entrepreneurs → https://motive11.comAgency founder Chris LaFay joins me to talk about growing a web business from small-town freelancing to seven figures, the power of sharing experience instead of advice, and what it really takes to scale sustainably without losing yourself.🔗 Connect with Chris LaFay:Website: https://www.classiccity.netLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrislafayX: https://x.com/chrisjlafay  🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark Szymanski: https://markszymanski.co/linksVideo/Audio Production --- Nathaniel DeHaven: https://elevatedmultimedia.comChapters:0:00 Intro and why I film first conversations1:12 Meet the guest Chris LaFay and Classic City Consulting3:11 How we got connected through Andy Milligan4:30 Accountability partner dynamic and daily check-ins6:40 Experience vs advice and why stories land better8:46 Lessons from Entrepreneurs’ Organization on sharing experiences10:46 My learn try share motto and staying authentic12:10 What I’m excited about now daily shorts streak hits 10013:20 Documenting life systems and personal website roots15:03 Chris’s background slow and steady agency growth16:25 Content ramp up and finally starting a podcast18:58 Framing the studio and committing to a setup20:06 Content to drive Classic City sales the game plan21:17 Collaborations and mini series with agency partners22:52 The dual CTA idea and jabs before the right hook24:05 My path agency vs creator split and tradeoffs25:27 Chris’s origin suburbs of Atlanta and early freelancing27:12 Pricing mindset shift charging more with confidence29:21 Scaling to 1.3M and hard lessons on expenses30:53 Selling to CMOs vs founders and changing rooms33:04 College path MIS degree and real world skills35:39 First WordPress class and stepping up to teach37:49 From Dreamweaver to WordPress becoming the core stack41:26 Shopify side work and where it fits42:53 What Chris does today founder CEO head of sales44:38 Relationship driven sales and creating a repeatable engine48:04 Why ads waited the need for a foot in the door offer50:14 ICP clarity B2B SaaS with complex content models52:18 Component libraries CPTs and empowering marketing teams54:50 How they entered B2B SaaS referrals and Slack groups56:40 Personal sites as scratch pads and short posts59:28 Substack vs WordPress and owning the home base1:02:44 Personal brand ideas fractional consulting with founders1:05:20 Building new lines of business inside existing engines1:06:56 Community and mentorship possibilities1:07:24 Wrap up and where to find Chris LinkedIn and Classic City

⚡Want to build a business that actually works? My team at Motive11 can help—websites, systems, and strategy for modern entrepreneurs → https://motive11.comIn this episode, 24-year-old agency founder Andy Milligan reveals why he ditched WordPress, built 30+ sites on Webflow + Framer, and publicly tracks every dollar of revenue.  🔗 Connect with Andy Milligan:Website: https://www.mmgdesign.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindulmilliganInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulmilliganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmgdesignX: https://x.com/mmg__designYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mmgdesign🔗 Connect with Mark Szymanski:Website: https://markszymanski.coFacebook: https://mjs.link/FBInstagram: https://mjs.link/IGLinkedIn: https://mjs.link/LIX: https://mjs.link/XYouTube: https://mjs.link/YTAbout the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since episodes recorded in my car—thank you. We’re still just getting warmed up 💪Host --- Mark Szymanski: https://markszymanski.co/linksVideo/Audio Production --- Nathaniel DeHaven: https://elevatedmultimedia.comSponsor --- NitroPack: Get 10% off with code "MJS" at https://mjs.link/NitroPackChapters:0:00 - Intro0:43 - Meet Andy Milligan: 24-Year-Old Making $10K+/mo (Golf Pro → Web Agency)6:35 - From Scratch Golfer to Eating Disorder Recovery (Raw Story)15:51 - How Personal Training & Golf Lessons Became His First Business21:47 - Instagram Reels → $40/hr Golf Lessons (Early Hustle Exposed)26:21 - NitroPack Ad: Make Your Site Blazing Fast (Use Code MJS for 10% Off)27:20 - Why Daily YouTube Shorts = Therapy + Lead Gen Gold31:26 - Identity Lags Reality: “I Still Wake Up Like the Kid Who Got Laid Off”35:56 - Discipline = Where Your Calendar Is (Not Motivation)44:55 - Painful Feedback = Probably True (Family vs. Internet Trolls)50:00 - Whole Foods Diet: Meat, Eggs, Fruit, 5lbs of Potatoes (Mark’s Catalyst)1:12:38 - Discipline Is NOT Blanket — It’s Pillar-Based1:26:54 - Balancing Deep Relationships vs. Shallow Founder Network1:34:39 - WordPress vs. Webflow/Framer: The REAL Builder War (No BS)1:40:02 - “You Have to Code PHP to Customize WordPress” — Andy’s Old Myth1:47:30 - Why Gen Z Designers Flock to Framer & AI Tools (And Fail)1:53:31 - “Clients Don’t Care About the Tool — They Care About Leads”1:58:24 - Don’t Switch Platforms If You’re Making Money (Mark’s Warning)2:01:41 - Final Verdict: Tool Debates Are for Technicians, Not Founders2:02:00 - Where to Find Andy (Agency, Podcast, LinkedIn)

Fueled By Progress is back. New studio, fresh clarity, same mission: candid conversations that document the journey and help us all move forward.In this solo relaunch, I share why “MJS Podcast” never fully resonated, the story behind the FBP name (and why I’m proud to bring it back), how my year reshaped my direction, and what’s coming next—guests, deeper conversations, and consistent momentum.What’s inside:Why I sunset the MJS Podcast and revived FBPThe naming story and brand decisionsA quick history of FBP (car recordings → guest era)Reworking the RSS feed + channel setupThe roadmap for upcoming episodes and guestsSubscribe & follow:Fueled By Progress on your favorite podcast app: https://fueledbyprogress.com/YouTube (Fueled By Progress): https://youtube.com/@FueledByProgress/My main channel:  https://youtube.com/@markjszymanski/Second channel (BTS / real-time updates):  https://youtube.com/@MarkSzymanski2/About the show:Fueled By Progress is a podcast about candid conversations with builders, creators, and curious people—focused on decisions, disciplines, and stories that move us forward.If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been here since the car recordings—thank you. We’re just getting started.

💡If you like how I think about business, technology, and systems on Fueled By Progress, you can find the best way to work with me or learn more at https://markszymanski.co/startJoin me for a conversation with Nick Saraev, AI automation expert, agency owner, and content creator who scaled his service business to $72K/month.In this episode, we explore the intersection of technology, business mindset, and content creation strategy. Nick shares his journey into AI automation, revealing why focusing ruthlessly on revenue-generating activities is the key to success.We discuss the power of transparency in marketing, the value of personal branding, and practical advice on building systems that deliver demonstrable ROI for clients.Whether you're looking to transition from technical skills to entrepreneurship, scale your service business, or leverage AI automation for growth, this conversation offers actionable insights from someone who's built successful businesses in both the technical and educational spaces. Plus, Nick shares his time management philosophy that allows him to create massive amounts of content while still maintaining a thriving agency and personal life.GUEST: Nick Saraev- Website: https://nicksaraev.com/- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicksaraev- Maker School: https://www.skool.com/makerschool/- Make Money With Make.com: https://www.skool.com/makemoneywithmake/Chapters:0:00 - Introduction to Nick Saraev8:35 - Conversation with Nick starts9:04 - Nick's perspective on why transparency and authenticity will be crucial in an AI-saturated future11:05 - Comparing our journeys from web development to exploring automation opportunities14:11 - Nick's path from struggling with WordPress to discovering front-end and AI technologies17:56 - The limitations of web design and why ROI-focused services are more valuable20:18 - The generational differences between WordPress and AI/automation communities25:12 - Why you need existing profitable processes before applying automation and AI29:04 - How to identify automation opportunities that deliver 100x results for businesses33:09 - Navigating criticism when sharing revenue figures and dealing with "trust fund kid" accusations38:13 - Nick's advice on when to start teaching: "learn, achieve, then share" to build credibility42:17 - Time management secrets: effectiveness over efficiency and the $500/hour mindset45:00 - Being ruthless about focusing only on tasks that generate significant ROI51:00 - Why growth solves most business problems better than optimization or hiring56:20 - The technician vs. entrepreneur spectrum and moving beyond technical skills59:08 - Three recurring revenue models for automation businesses explained in detail1:01:15 - Nick's inspiring story about confidence in success and where to find his content

Join me for an enlightening conversation with Matt Medeiros, the "Podfather of WordPress" and creator of The WP Minute, as we dive deep into the world of content creation, personal branding, and playing the long game in the digital space.In this episode, Matt shares his 15+ years of experience as a digital professional and reveals why he consciously chose to build without chasing fame or algorithms. We explore:- The true value of personal branding vs. building sellable assets- Why Matt avoids the content hamster wheel of viral marketing- The importance of creating for the love of the game, not just metrics- How podcasting serves as the ultimate "dynamic resume"- The transition from WordPress to AI and what's next- Strategic insights on when to name products after yourself (and when not to)- The "blue collar digital worker" mindset- How authentic content creation leads to unexpected opportunities- Building sustainable content businesses without burnoutMatt discusses his journey from running a WordPress agency to becoming a key voice in the podcasting space, his experiences with various ventures (from The Matt Report to The WP Minute to South Coast FM), and why staying "in the mix" has been his most valuable content strategy.Whether you're a content creator, entrepreneur, or someone interested in building a lasting digital presence, this conversation offers invaluable insights on creating meaningful content that stands the test of time.GUEST: Matt Medeiros- Website: https://craftedbymatt.com- WP Minute: https://thewpminute.com- Gravity Forms: https://gravity.com 

Welcome to the first episode of the MJS Podcast!I'm Mark Szymanski, and in this introduction, I share why I'm starting this podcast journey to have authentic conversations with interesting minds who have mentored and influenced me. I explain my background in WordPress, digital marketing, and content creation, plus my previous podcasting experience with "Fueled by Progress."This podcast will focus on business, technology, AI, psychology, and philosophy through raw, unedited conversations with people who are innovating in these spaces. I believe strongly in my motto "learn, try, and share," which drives this podcast's purpose.Episodes will be released 1-2 times monthly, running about an hour each. Subscribe to join me in these valuable conversations, and find all my other content at https://mjs.bio!More of a watcher than a listener? Me, too. Here's the video.

CT is in the 'Burgh! CT Kaupp is a Wisconsin native that has a true passion for web design and entrepreneurship. He is the owner of CT Kaupp, LLC, a full-service web design firm, and the host of the Business In Boardshorts Podcast. His approach to web design emphasizes developing strong relationships with his clients. He takes care of everything, so they can focus on running their business. CT talks about the importance of building relationships with people, why he likes podcasting, his concerns with social media, how he stays ultra productive, and much more! Watch CT's last appearance on FBP! Follow CT: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website Follow CT Kaupp, LLC: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website Follow Business In Boardshorts Podcast: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

She's Back!Amanda Masters has become a fitness fanatic over the past 14 months. She went from zero exercise to now working out 5 days per week. How'd she do it? She found a few great influences on social media that positively impacted her and now she's looking to inspire others to do the same via her brand, Amanda's Inspiration. On top of that, Amanda is also an Apparel Designer for Fueled By Progress and the Co-Host of AM In The PM. Amanda talks about her fitness journey to this point, how working out has improved her life, her goals for Amanda's Inspiration, and much more!Check out Amanda's previous FBP episode!Follow Amanda's Inspiration: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  TikTok  -  Twitter  -  YouTube  -  WebsiteFollow AM In The PM: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  TikTok  -  YouTube  -  Website--------------------------------------------------------------------Thank you for listening!FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.comYouTube: Fueled By ProgressInstagram: @fbpapparel

Benjamin Cartwright is back as our first repeat guest! He is a U.S. Military veteran and entrepreneur with thoughtful perspectives on the current U.S. political and economic landscape.In this second time around, Benjamin provides updates on his new venture, Stonebridge Security Consultants, which is set to launch later in 2021. SSC will provide a variety of security services to its clients across the country.A lot has happened in the world since Benjamin's first appearance, as well. He further defines his position as an anarcho-capitalist by sharing his thoughts on the new Presidential administration, human rights, and other geopolitical issues.Check out Benjamin's previous FBP episode!Connect with Benjamin & Stonebridge Security Consultants: Email  -  Facebook  -  Instagram--------------------------------------------------------------------Thank you for listening!FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.comYouTube: Fueled By ProgressInstagram: @fbpapparel

Joe Tersak is a Pittsburgh native with a fierce passion for 2 things: self-improvement and cryptocurrency. By day, he works as an Elite Senior District Manager at ADP. By night, he is the host of Viva La Coin, his YouTube channel and brand devoted to educating others on cryptocurrency.Joe's story is something that everyone can benefit from hearing. Like many of us, he has had to struggle to find his purpose. His journey has not been easy, but it has hardened him into a relentless warrior. One of his life mottos is to "Be your own hero". In times of great hardship, we need to be able to look within to find the strength to keep going.Joe got into the crypto space in 2017. Back then, it was less developed, but many people still saw the opportunities it offered. Over the next couple of years, Joe's involvement stagnated a bit as he continued to navigate life. Then, 2020 came. He realized that a lot was about to change and he dove back into crypto, even deeper than before. Right now in 2021, as the US dollar deteriorates, we are all living through the early stages of, quite possibly, the greatest shift in global economics of all time. Educate yourself on cryptocurrency!Joe talks about his battle to find his purpose, the bargain he upholds every day, why people should care about cryptocurrency, the current state of the global economy, and much more!Follow Joe: Facebook - Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  TwitterFollow Viva La Coin: Instagram  -  Twitter  -  YouTube--------------------------------------------------------------------Thank you for listening!FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.comYouTube: Fueled By ProgressInstagram: @fbpapparel

Jeff Fieldhouse is a Pittsburgh native with a passion for comedy and a love for all types of creative art. He is a stand-up comedian the host of The BabyFace Assassin Podcast. Alongside his girlfriend and producer Danielle Bernick, he has spent the past 2 years building up the brand. The dynamic duo has big plans for the future!The craziness of 2020 put a temporary halt on comedy, but that didn't stop Jeff's progress. He shifted his focus to podcasting and is approaching his 100th episode! Every Monday, The BabyFace Assassin Podcast shines the spotlight on a special guest. Many musicians, comedians, artists, and other creatives have been featured thus far and there are many more to come!Jeff talks about the origin of the BabyFace Assassin, his experience as a podcaster, his love for comedy, the power of optimism, the importance of self-love, and much more!Follow Jeff: Instagram  -  TwitterFollow The BabyFace Assassin Podcast: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter  -  YouTubeFollow Jeff's Squad: Danielle Bernick  -  TyDanzuso  -  Sarah Holby  -  Larry Lane--------------------------------------------------------------------Thank you for listening!FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.comYouTube: Fueled By ProgressInstagram: @fbpapparel

CT Kaupp is a Wisconsin native that has a true passion for web design and entrepreneurship. He is the owner of CT Kaupp, LLC, a full-service web design firm, and the host of the Business In Boardshorts Podcast. His approach to web design emphasizes developing strong relationships with his clients. He takes care of everything, so they can focus on running their business. CT's personal story is something everyone can learn from and be inspired by. CT worked at his father's advertising agency for several years before beginning freelance work. Shortly after, in September 2016, his father was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma (GMB) brain tumor and was called to Heaven in November 2016. Since then, CT has started up his own businesses and firmly believes his dad passed on his entrepreneurial spirit to him. A true lesson in turning tragedy into triumph. Read CT's full "My Why". CT talks about his "Why", what he's learned from running his own web design business, his thoughts on podcasting, the importance of having a skill, and much more! Follow CT: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website Follow CT Kaupp, LLC: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website Follow Business In Boardshorts Podcast: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Benjamin Cartwright is a U.S. Military veteran and entrepreneur that has lived up and down the east coast of the United States. He's also a certified sous-chef and has worked at many top-notch establishments in the past. Benjamin's new venture, Stonebridge Security Consultants, is set to launch in 2021 and will provide a variety of services to its clients across the country. Benjamin's perspective on the current U.S. political and economic landscape is thoughtful. When analyzing issues, he implements a certain blend of logic and emotion that is quite refreshing. He points out hypocrisy no matter what side it's on and always has his sights set on long-term solutions, rather than short-term "victories". Benjamin talks about his views on society & politics, his past work experiences, his new security business, and much more! Follow Benjamin & Stonebridge Security Consultants: Facebook  -  Instagram -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Liam Carlin is a Pittsburgh native currently working full-time at a logistics company. He graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) in 2019 with a Masters in Business Administration and has plans to work for himself in the future. In mid-2020, Liam launched his first business, Carlin Fitness Systems. Initially, he offered one-on-one training sessions and workout programs. More recently, the apparel side of his business has begun to flourish and he is looking to expand into other industries such as supplements and gym ownership in the future. Liam talks about his passion for fitness, his past ACL injuries, his daily nutrition, his new business venture, and much more! Follow Liam & Carlin Fitness Systems: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitter Check Out Liam's Friends: Shane McFarland (Videography)  -  Jordan Lee (Photography)  -  Michael Lotenero (Graphic Design)  -  Taylor Bobak (Photography) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Josh Santiago is a freelance video editor and YouTuber with over 3,000 subscribers. He recently moved back to Wisconsin after living out in Oregon for a short time. Josh started to focus on building his video editing business, Thrive Media Productions, after he lost his day job due to the pandemic. He also began publishing more content on his YouTube channel, an amalgamation of everything he enjoys doing. His archive consists of videos about sports cards, fitness, business advice, life optimization, and much more. Josh chats about some of his YouTube secrets, life as a freelancer, the importance of self-awareness, and much more! Follow Josh: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  YouTube Follow Thrive: Discord  -  Website  -  FREE Thrive Sticker -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

We've got big things planned for 2021! Podcast improvements, bringing the apparel line to life, and expanding the FBP community are just the beginning! Thank you all for your support! Stay Fueled By Progress & Let's Keep Going! FBP Clips Channel: YouTube Follow Fueled By Progress: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  TikTok  -  Twitter  -  YouTube  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Max Novak is a Director, VFX Artist, and YouTuber with over 240,000 subscribers. He is a Pittsburgh native that recently returned from living out in Los Angeles, California. Max attended CCAC for two years before transferring to Slippery Rock University (SRU). At the time, he was studying Cybersecurity but developed a passion for video editing and YouTube during his college years. He found some success, left SRU, went all-in on his passion, and has never looked back. Max's YouTube channel is an archive of hundreds of free video editing tutorials and his company, Media Monopoly, sells various types of digital assets to help creators expand their toolset and improve their workflow. Max talks about his process of mastering video effects, the keys to growing a successful YouTube channel, the pros/cons of service-based and product-based business models, and much more! Follow Max & Media Monopoly: Instagram  -  Twitter  -  YouTube  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Cal Tarasi is a Mail Carrier at The United States Postal Service. He is a Pittsburgh native that relocated to Yakima, Washington in June 2020 for a change of scenery. Prior to USPS, Cal studied Music at California University of Pennsylvania. After completing his core courses, he auditioned and was accepted into Berklee College of Music, one of the best music schools in the world. He spent one semester there and left because it wasn't right for him. Cal is incredibly talented on the guitar and harmonica, but he doesn't believe that. He has struggled with self-deprecation and it has resulted in a lack of interest in his single biggest passion, music. He is fighting a difficult battle against himself, but he has the strength to overcome it and pursue his dream of being a full-time musician. Go get it, Cal. Cal talks about his love for music, his time at Berklee, his struggle with self-confidence, his experience as a mail carrier, and much more! Follow Cal: Instagram Follow Friends of Friends of Friends: Website Follow Anton Ego: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Ryan Praskovich is a Cyber Threat Intelligence Consultant at Nationwide. He is a Pittsburgh native that relocated to Columbus, Ohio after graduating from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor's degree in information science/networks and security. Over the past few years, Ryan has developed a passion for personal finance and has implemented several strategies into his life because of it. On top of all that, he is also a professional bagpipe player! Ryan gives his perspective on college, the day-to-day of a Cyber Threat Intelligence Consultant, his personal finance journey, his bagpiping backstory, and much more! Follow Ryan: Instagram (Personal)  -  Instagram (The Columbus Bagpiper)  -  LinkedIn  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Lucas Brennan is a Long Island, New York native and is currently working as a Full Stack Developer at BlueMatrix based in New York City. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor's degree in computer science in just 3.5 years. Lucas has a passion for gaming and has been building up his following on Twitch in his spare time. Lucas talks about his experience at the University of Pittsburgh, life as a Full Stack Developer, streaming on Twitch, the importance of mental health, and much more! Follow Lucas: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitch -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Alex Connor is a graduate student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute working towards his Ph.D. in Chemical and Biological Engineering. His current research focuses on the genetic design, recombinant production, and characterization of silk-inspired proteins produced in a variety of microorganisms. He also has a passion for learning about nutritional biochemistry and human physiology. Alex talks about what his typical day is like, his pillars of focus in life, his silk protein research, his experience with the carnivore diet, and much more! Follow Alex: LinkedIn Watch Alex's Material Innovation Initiative Presentation: Watch Now Watch Is Spider Silk Stronger Than Steel? | MythBusters Jr.: Watch Now -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Brian Carothers is a real estate agent with RE/MAX Select Realty in Moon Township, PA. He loves the real estate transaction process and enjoys helping people through one of the biggest purchases of their lives. Since social media's conception, Brian has learned to leverage it in a way not many other agents have. His persistence has resulted in great success. In the past, he was the host of a radio show in Atlanta, Georgia called "The Giant Show" and has always enjoyed making people laugh.  Brian talks about how authenticity and comedy on social media have helped him do more business, his real estate marketing strategy, the importance of seeing the silver linings during the craziness of 2020, and much more! Follow Brian: Facebook (Main Profile)  -  Facebook (Secondary Fan Page)  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  YouTube Check Out The "Scrambleeasy": Instagram Clint Hurdle Quote: "When your job brings people pleasure, people take pleasure in telling you how to do your job." (If you know Clint, tell him that he should be a guest on FBP with Brian) Brian's Top 3 Internet Videos: 1. Man Throws Shoes At Bush 2. Dopey Falls from Fantasmic Upper Level Onto Goofy at Disney's Hollywood Studios 3. Hilarious Irish Toddler Swearing "Fuckin Chucky" -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Cory Herschk is a 3rd Grade Math Teacher at Dilworth Elementary School, Director of Hockey Operations at USA Ball Hockey, and the Head Coach of the Pittsburgh Gods. The sport of ball hockey has grown exponentially over the past 10+ years and Cory has been one of the driving forces behind its rapid growth. He's spent and continues to spend, countless hours working to make ball hockey a certified sport in the U.S. with the ultimate goal of getting it into the Olympics. While ball hockey is a significant part of Cory's life, it's not his only focus. By day, he is revolutionizing the way Pittsburgh youth are taught critical life skills. This is where Cory's creativity shines through. His lesson planning goes beyond the typical math class and instead, he incorporates entrepreneurship, personal finance, life skills, and more into his teaching. Cory shares the story of how he got into ball hockey, the details of what he and many others are doing to help #GrowTheGame, his innovative approach to educating our youth, his secrets on how he balances all of this with family time, and much more! Follow Cory: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter Follow USA Ball Hockey: Email  -  Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter  -  Website Follow Pittsburgh Gods Ball Hockey: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Andrew Flowers is a student at Grand Canyon University (GCU) in Phoenix, Arizona with a great deal of ambition and experience at a young age. He co-founded a digital marketing agency at 18 and has been able to leverage the knowledge he gained from it over the past couple of years. Currently, he is the Student Vice President of Canyon Angels, an angel investment group partner with GCU. He's also doing an apprenticeship with ZorroSign, Inc., a digital transaction management SaaS platform built on Blockchain. ZorroSign is just one of many companies at Canyon Ventures, a startup business accelerator program at GCU. Andrew talks about his reasons for choosing GCU, how Canyon Angels is helping connect investors with companies, his experience with ZorroSign at Canyon Ventures, his podcast "The Show", and much more! Follow Andrew: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitter  -  The Show Podcast Check out GCU, Canyon Angels, & Canyon Ventures! -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Nick DiSanti & Jimmy Farbo are Penn State University engineering graduates, investment partners, and great friends. They've both developed a burning passion for fitness and have been motivating each other since they met back in Happy Valley. Today, Nick works as a Sales and Operations Engineer at Carnegie Robotics and Jimmy is a Field Engineer at ExxonMobil. As they hone their skills, they are making big plans for the future including real estate investing, entrepreneurship, and more! Nick & Jimmy talk about the role fitness plays in their lives, their recent investment property purchase, how they balance their 9-5s and life, the importance of always moving forward, and much more! Follow Nick: Instagram  -  LinkedIn Follow Jimmy: Instagram  -  LinkedIn Follow Alex Connor: LinkedIn -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Izaz Ahmed is a Sergeant in the U.S. Army and currently works as an Army Recruiter. He has a passion for service and has relished his time in the military thus far. He is also pursuing a degree in Aerospace Science and wants to work at a company like SpaceX in the future. As he plans for the future, Izaz is focusing on long-term investments in real estate and other assets as a way to make his money work for him. Izaz talks about his experience in the U.S. Army, his investment strategy, future plans, how to join the U.S. Army, and much more! Contact Izaz if you interested in hearing more about the U.S. Army!  Email  -  Facebook  -  Instagram -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Jared Garasich is an avid dek hockey player at North Hills Dek Hockey & Cranberry Dek Hockey and an Archeologist specializing in the U.S. Northeast region. He has garnished some great stories and unique perspectives from his time on the road. When he is home on breaks, one of his favorite pastimes is playing dek hockey at the local Pittsburgh rinks and giving back to the community as much as he can. Jared talks about his passion for dek hockey, the impact it's had on his life, what being an archeologist is like, the best stories from his 4 years on the road, and much more! Follow North Hills Dek Hockey: Facebook  -  Website Follow Cranberry Dek Hockey: Facebook  -  Website -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Bobby Sokol is a semi-professional hockey player on the Peoria Rivermen (SPHL) and the Port Huron Prowlers (FPHL). In the past, he played at Ringgold High School, Hobart College, and overseas in several European countries. Ball, roller, and ice hockey have been a huge part of his life since he was just 2 years old. As he continues to make new connections in the hockey world and in his community, Bobby aims to give back any way he can. He is the Co-founder of "Clutch Hockey Systems", an athletic training company that helps hockey players get to the next level. He also has a podcast called "A Bobcast of Stories" that focuses on sharing the stories of him and his friends in the hockey community. Bobby talks about how hockey has impacted his life, his passion for giving back to his community, the importance of always moving forward, and much more! Follow Bobby: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter Follow Clutch Hockey Systems: Facebook Follow A Bobcast of Stories: Anchor  -  Apple Podcasts  -  Facebook  -  Google Podcasts  -  Spotify -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Brendan Milowicki is a student at Slippery Rock University studying Psychology and a fitness content creator on Instagram. He has a passion for helping others and is sharing his fitness knowledge with the world to create a positive impact. Brendan shares some keen insights on fitness, mental health, college, how 2020 has affected people, and much more! Follow Brendan: Instagram Follow Brendan's Fitness Content: Instagram -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Ryan Rust is a full-time video producer at Guardian Protection, a freelance narrative director, and a volunteer firefighter. He graduated from The Pittsburgh Technical Institute in early 2015 and started his own freelance business, "Firedance Productions", shortly after. He is also establishing his personal portfolio under the brand "Ryan M. Rust Films" and aims to focus on narrative documentaries and other films. Ryan shares his thoughts on life as a filmmaker, his experience as a volunteer firefighter, his approach to marketing his brands as a freelancer, and much more! Follow Ryan: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitter  -  Vimeo  -  Website  -  YouTube Follow Firedance Productions: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Vimeo  -  Website  -  YouTube -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Dan Cole is a full-time Project Engineer at FedEx and the owner of DC Hypertrophy & Strength LLC (DCHS). He has been training since 2008 and started focusing on bodybuilding specifically in 2014. He founded DCHS in June 2018 and earned his bodybuilding pro status in the OCB in December 2018 as a classic physique competitor. Dan talks about how he balances his day job and his own business, his scientific approach to bodybuilding, his gym equipment restoration side hustle, his experience owning DC Hypertrophy & Strength LLC, his plans for the future, and much more! Follow Dan: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter  -  Website  -  YouTube -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Steve Gregory is a real estate agent with River Point Realty in Pittsburgh, PA. He truly enjoys guiding his clients through one of the biggest purchases of their lives and does so by putting an emphasis on hard work and genuineness. Another huge part of Steve's life is ball hockey. He is a member of the Pittsburgh Gods and Team USA, coach at Team Pittsburgh, and tournament director at USA Ball Hockey. He is one of the driving forces behind the rapid growth of the sport. Steve shares his thoughts on the power of optimism & positivity, life as a real estate professional, what ball hockey means to him, and much more! Follow Steve: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Website Follow USA Ball Hockey: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter  -  Website Follow Team Pittsburgh: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Website Follow Dek Hockey Focus: Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter  -  Website  -  YouTube -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Jordan Smith is the Athletics Graduate Assistant at Point Park University and a La Roche University alum. His life-long passion for sports has led him to pursue a career in sports media and public relations. We chat about finding one's purpose, Jordan's internship with the Pittsburgh Penguins, sports card investing, and much more! Follow Jordan: Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Snapchat  -  Twitter -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

This trio has known one another since kindergarten and has been making memories together since fourth grade. Their social distance has fluctuated and a lot has changed during that time, but they're still great friends. They are a terrific example of what a lifelong friend group should be like. They each give their perspective on relationships, religion, meaningful living, and much more! Follow Tech Neighbor (Jesse's company): techneighboronline.com  -  Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter Do you have the skills to become a Tech Neighbor? Contact Jesse at [email protected]. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Max Mirho is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, co-founder of Moss Generation, and host of Entreprenerd. His biggest passion and source of enjoyment is experimenting with #NoCode tools and teaching aspiring entrepreneurs the skills they'll need to succeed. Max does all of this LIVE every Wednesday (12 PM-1:30 PM EST) and Saturday (6:30 PM-8 PM EST) on LinkedIn, Twitch, and YouTube. Make sure to follow his journey via the links below! Follow Max: Website  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitch  -  Twitter  -  YouTube -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Charles Machiko is a member of the U.S. military, athlete (ice hockey & golf), and student at Washington & Jefferson College studying psychology and philosophy. He recounts his life story and recent mindset transformation. Topics include high school and college sports, his initial experience with military training, the importance of finding one's purpose,  the "getting better" mindset, and more! Follow Charles: Facebook  -  Snapchat -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Carlo Sorco is a licensed Realtor®, Italian-raised, Pittsburgh native with a passion for helping and educating others. He tells the story of his indirect path into real estate, describes his go-to marketing tactics, and talks about why he loves the self-employed lifestyle. Follow Carlo: Instagram  -  Facebook  -  Zillow Follow Sorco Real Estate Team: Facebook  -  Zillow -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for listening! FBP Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Jesse Stechly is a rising senior at Robert Morris University studying Cybersecurity and is also pursuing his own entrepreneurial ventures. He discusses how he found his love for technology, his views on privacy vs convenience,  why people should take cybersecurity more seriously, and what he's doing to help people that lack tech knowledge! Follow Tech Neighbor at the links below! techneighboronline.com  -  Facebook  -  Instagram  -  Twitter Do you have the skills to become a Tech Neighbor? Contact Jesse at [email protected]. ---------- Thank you for listening! Our Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Burhan Ahmed is an entrepreneur, a licensed insurance agent, an avid gamer, a ball hockey player, and a huge sports fan. He discusses the story of how he immigrated to the US, the role ball hockey has played in his life, his experience with religion, how COVID-19 has affected sports, and more!   Follow Burhan at the links below!  Facebook  -  Instagram  -  LinkedIn  -  Twitter Contact Interiorz Cleaning LLC for all your cleaning needs: interiorzcleaning.com! ---------- Thank you for listening! Our Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Dave "TheWulfeman" Cupp is an avid gamer, Twitch streamer, content creator, and armchair philosopher. He discusses his views and perspectives on mental health, collectivism vs individualism, COVID-19, the US political system, and more. Follow Dave "TheWulfeman" Cupp at the links below! Twitch  -  YouTube  -  Facebook  -  Twitter ---------- Thank you for listening! Our Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel

Pete Mullins works 100% remotely as a full-time mobile app developer and also has a true passion for and a vested interest in US politics. He gives us some insight and perspective into his views on equality, COVID-19, the 2-party political system, and more. Link mentioned in COVID-19 segment: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-020-0820-9 Find Pete on Twitter one day soon! ---------- Thank you for listening! Our Website: fueledbyprogress.com YouTube: Fueled By Progress Instagram: @fbpapparel