The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I reflect on the lessons my mom taught me simply through the way she lived. After raising six kids on a second grade teacher’s salary, she showed me what resilience, humility, kindness, and service really look like. I share stories about growing up in Akron, Ohio, carrying those lessons into my career, and the impact teachers and parents have on shaping lives long after the classroom is gone. From funny moments with my kids and social media to an emotional encounter at LAX with one of my mom’s former students, this conversation is about gratitude, legacy, and the people who quietly change the world every single day.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Grant Elliott, founder of Rehab Fix and one of the leading voices in movement-based recovery for chronic back pain. We talk about why lower back pain has become the world’s leading disability, and how stress, sleep, mindset, movement, and daily habits all contribute to the problem. Dr. Elliott explains why so many outdated treatment models still dominate modern healthcare, why most people can recover without surgery, and how belief plays a major role in healing. We also discuss scaling an online health business, mentoring providers around the world, and helping people regain confidence after years of chronic pain and discouraging diagnoses.

In this episode, I remind you that ego is the biggest interference between where you are and where you want to be. The ego wants to defend, control, and prove, and that interference keeps you from your potential. I talk about why the simple things matter most, and why the ego fights the mundane. Success isn’t built in big moments; it’s built in the small things you do every day. I also share why non-negotiable behaviors matter and how aligning your daily actions with your divine direction changes everything. When you stop judging, start discerning, and stay consistent in the simple things, you begin to remove the interference. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at [email protected]

In today’s episode, I sit down with Grant Cardone, entrepreneur, real estate investor, bestselling author, and founder of the 10X movement, to talk about turning setbacks into fuel for something bigger. Grant shares how dissatisfaction can become a divine signal to grow, why success often starts before belief catches up, and how he learned to build businesses by doing the math backward from impossible targets. We also talk about time, money, real estate, leverage, social media, and the difference between chasing stages and building a platform that creates lasting relationships, impact, freedom, and a clearer path to becoming everything you are capable of becoming.

In today’s episode, I share the lesson that came after losing over $100 million, going bankrupt, and realizing money alone would never make me happy. I talk about the calling that changed my life, the wisdom my mom gave me at my lowest point, and why faith is essential when the evidence is contrary to where you want to go. I also break down the three things I believe create real happiness: making a lot of money, helping a lot of people, and having a lot of fun while staying aligned with your potential.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Patrice Evra, former Manchester United and France captain, to talk about what it really takes to win at the highest level. We get into the mindset of becoming a “monster” in pursuit of greatness, and the sacrifices that come with it, from family strain to personal loss. Patrice shares how his upbringing shaped his resilience, why he was never driven by money, and how success can come at the cost of connection. We also talk about healing from past trauma, finding purpose after football, and why giving back and staying present now defines his version of happiness.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Justine Reiss to share my journey from early financial success to losing over $100 million and rebuilding with a new perspective on faith, values, and purpose. We talk about why sports has always been a backdrop for something bigger, and how learning to love what you don’t like about what you love can change everything. I break down the role of gratitude, forgiveness, and accountability in shaping mindset, along with the power of consistent daily practices. We also get into timing, why too soon can be a burden, and how experience becomes your greatest advantage as you grow.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by David Abeles, CEO and President of TaylorMade Golf, and Adrian Rietveld, Senior Manager of Tour, to talk about what it really takes to stay at the top for decades. We get into the pressure of leading a dominant brand, why complacency is never an option, and how surrounding yourself with world-class talent changes everything. David shares how culture and values drive sustained success, while Adrian breaks down the importance of understanding individuals at the highest level of competition. We also talk about AI as a cultural shift, not just a tool, and how embracing technology can elevate both performance and people.

In this episode, I share the six non-negotiables that top performers live by. It’s not about motivation; it’s about how you show up every day. I talk about clarity, devotion, prioritization, accountability, adaptability, and consistency, and why you have to decide in advance how you show up so circumstances don’t control your results. When you stay aligned in what you do, say, think, feel, and believe, you build momentum. When you stay consistent, those small actions start to compound. That’s how you create real, lasting success. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at [email protected]

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ronnie 2K to talk about building influence the right way. He shares how his journey from a passionate gamer to the face of a global franchise came together organically, and why expanding into new ventures is about creating more opportunities to make an impact. We get into the difference between fulfillment and success, the responsibility that comes with a platform, and the darker side of online influence, from trolling to real-world risks. Ronnie also opens up about his upcoming documentary and how his background prepared him to handle both attention and adversity while staying focused on using influence for good.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ben Garland, Ron Cole, and Anthony Tolliver to talk about what legacy really means beyond money. We get into social wealth, community, and why mental health is the foundation that impacts every part of life. We share practical ways to build stronger communication skills in the next generation, from simple habits like making a phone call to embracing AI without losing human connection. I also explore the difference between discipline, determination, and devotion, and how purpose shapes every opportunity, even the ones that feel like setbacks at the time.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ryan Munsey to talk about the truth behind money, relationships, and consistency. I explain why money is a manmade construct and how giving, receiving, and asking all play a role in building abundance. We get into why kind people often struggle financially and how shifting your mindset around receiving can change everything. I also share how community and relationship capital create more opportunity than financial capital alone. From learning humility after major loss to using non negotiable daily habits, I break down practical ways to stay consistent, build value, and create a life rooted in growth, gratitude, and meaningful connection.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Brock Holyoak, a real estate investor, developer, and coach known for building discipline, accountability, and performance-driven habits. We talk about what it really means to be blue collar built and why that mindset still matters for the next generation. Brock shares how hard work, consistency, and immediate action separate those who move ahead from those who stay stuck in motivation loops. We get into the danger of overthinking, the power of doing things now instead of later, and how simple habits create long-term results. We also discuss balancing grind with purpose, family, and finding personal fulfillment beyond business success.

Today’s episode is focused on "How to Sell Your Way Through Life.” I shared insights on how selling is more than a business strategy—it’s a life skill that enhances every aspect of our personal and professional experiences. By focusing on building trust and creating emotional connections, we can create meaningful relationships and achieve sustainable success. Selling isn’t about persuasion; it’s about creating value, inspiring trust, and building genuine connections that leave a positive impact. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I sit down with Rene Rodriguez, a renowned leadership advisor, keynote speaker, and best-selling author known for blending behavioral neuroscience with practical business strategies. Rene shares how gratitude and faith influence personal and professional success, offering insights on reframing relationships, setting boundaries, and finding alignment in life. We explore how comfort and confidence stem from earning the right to ask, the importance of understanding value in negotiation, and why appreciation is essential for overcoming conflict. I also share lessons from my journey, including navigating setbacks, balancing ambition with faith, and maintaining ease during life’s challenges.

In today’s episode, I discuss the key to sustainable success by focusing on progress over perfection. I explain how to evaluate tasks based on scalability, prioritize efficient delegation, and build a culture of empowerment through shadowing and supervision. I share strategies to recognize open and closed minds, foster a supportive community, and align values, practices, and execution. Through simple tools like asking better questions and utilizing time effectively, I reveal how leaders can create exponential growth while maintaining balance. Whether it’s improving communication, encouraging ownership, or maximizing productivity, the message is clear: progress stems from behavior, and success comes from consistent learning and intentional effort.

In today's episode, I explore the infinite loop of giving, receiving, and asking with faith. I discuss why giving isn’t an automatic guarantee of receiving, how to find opportunity in what feels like punishment, and the importance of gratitude and forgiveness in creating success. By shifting perspective and embracing challenges, I share how to see protection and promotion in every situation. I also break down the power of asking as a demonstration of faith and how it connects to abundance. When you align giving, receiving, and asking, you unlock the potential to create more than enough for yourself and others.

In today’s episode, I share how to create content that resonates and strategies to amplify its reach. I explain why capturing authentic moments can be more impactful than creating from scratch, the value of tapping into legacy brands to build strong communities, and how platforms like YouTube TV are shaping the future of streaming. I also talk about breaking through the noise in today’s crowded digital world by focusing on post-production and meaningful connections. From leveraging gratitude to cultivating long-term growth, I explore actionable steps to maximize your impact and unlock new opportunities.

In today’s episode, I share insights from a recent meetup in Chicago where we explored why so many people feel stuck in repetitive cycles and how to break free. From rethinking time as a construct to applying prioritization as an antidote to overwhelm, we discussed practical strategies for progress in personal and professional life. I also shared stories about redefining relationships, asking for help, and using daily non-negotiables to harmonize competing priorities. Whether it’s leveraging structured habits as a superpower, learning to apply your "why," or embracing abundance over overwhelm, this conversation is packed with actionable steps to create meaningful change in your life.

In today’s episode, I sit down with David Grutman, the visionary behind Groot Hospitality, whose renowned restaurants and nightclubs like Komodo, LIV, and Papi Steak have redefined hospitality with unforgettable experiences. David shares his approach to creating emotional connections through ambiance and service, his philosophy on building lasting relationships, and the values that guide his collaborations with icons like Pharrell Williams. We also explore how he balances innovation with longevity, the importance of cultivating entrepreneurial teams, and why taking things personally drives his success.

In this Office Hours episode with Chad Sanschagrin, we explored the importance of self-love, authenticity, and vulnerability in personal and professional growth. Chad shared how aligning actions with core values and breaking free from destructive persistence can lead to a more fulfilling life. I reflected on the power of embracing our struggles and staying true to ourselves, even in fear or doubt. This conversation reminded me that our stories define how we navigate challenges and connect with others. By leading authentically and fostering self-belief, we can create meaningful connections and strive to become our best version. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I explain how to break free from limitation and live a life of abundance by focusing on what truly matters. Inspired by timeless principles, I outline practical steps to define your purpose, align your actions with your goals, and transform obstacles into opportunities. By reframing the past, committing to non-negotiables, and maximizing the use of your time, you can create meaningful progress each day. This framework empowers you to overcome fear, prioritize effectively, and live in harmony with your higher self, ensuring every moment contributes to a reality of growth, happiness, and fulfillment.

In today’s episode, I share insights from my journey of losing over $100 million and rebuilding my life with a focus on gratitude, accountability, and alignment with divine timing. I explore the power of being intentional with the 24 hours we are all guaranteed daily and how studying time can unlock productivity, accessibility, and gratitude. By taking inventory of my skills, knowledge, and desire, I transformed my setbacks into opportunities for growth. I also reflect on how believing in something bigger than ourselves through faith can guide us toward progress.

In today’s episode, I explore the power of curiosity, resilience, and faith in navigating life’s challenges. I share lessons from my journey, including the value of being more interested than interesting, the importance of detaching from specific outcomes, and how consistent practice builds progress. I discuss the mindset shift that helped me recover from losing everything, emphasizing the power of focusing on daily priorities, recognizing patterns, and making better choices. From teaching my children to learn, grow, and enjoy life, to finding clarity in moments of failure, this episode offers a framework for thriving through setbacks and staying aligned with your potential.

In today’s episode, I share the story of my rise to extraordinary financial success, the devastating fall that came with losing over $100 million, and how I rebuilt my life with greater purpose. I reflect on how the relentless pursuit of wealth led me away from what truly matters and how hitting rock bottom forced me to realign my priorities. Gratitude became the foundation of my recovery, alongside intentional daily practices and learning to embrace both giving and receiving. By shifting my mindset from scarcity to abundance, I found a new path to fulfillment and a deeper understanding of success.

In today’s episode, Neil Haley and I discuss pivotal lessons from my journey, including the power of consistency and kindness, recovering from losing $100 million, and finding meaning through pain and challenges. We explore how AI accelerates progress while emphasizing human connections, the importance of high-order thinking skills, and strategies to stay aligned with your goals. I also share why Go Fund Yourself is a game-changing entrepreneurial show, how singularity of focus and impulse control drive success, and the transformative impact of healthy reactions to fear. Drawing on experiences from my lowest moments, I reflect on the wisdom and faith that guide my purpose and decisions today.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Sir Martin Sorrell, the visionary founder and executive chairman of S4 Capital. With decades of experience shaping the advertising industry, Sir Martin shares his approach to building a purely digital advertising powerhouse. We explore his strategies for leveraging technology, adapting to market shifts, and scaling businesses with a focus on top-line growth. From disrupting traditional models to creating content ecosystems driven by data and efficiency, Sir Martin offers insights into the future of marketing and digital media. His candid perspective on leadership, innovation, and navigating the digital economy is truly unmatched.

In this episode, I share how gratitude can transform your mindset and open the door to greater abundance in every aspect of life. I specifically focus on the infinite loop of giving and receiving, explaining how shifting from scarcity to an abundant belief system creates endless opportunities. By embracing gratitude as a mindset, heartset, and skillset, you can align your thoughts and actions to achieve fulfillment and purpose. This episode provides actionable steps to help you live in a world of more than enough, where possibilities are limitless. To join future free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I share lessons from my journey growing up with a single mom, dreaming of playing football, and ultimately navigating a life shaped by ambition, setbacks, and unexpected advice. From learning the importance of capturing ideas that resonate—or even those that frustrate—to discovering the value of being more interested than interesting, I explore how lessons from my past shaped my pursuit of success. I reflect on moments of triumph and failure, including building wealth, losing it, and regaining perspective. Along the way, I reveal the impact of meaningful relationships, self-awareness, and the pursuit of skills and knowledge in achieving fulfillment.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Deborah Duncan, the host of Great Day Houston, to discuss how we can redefine success and find meaning through adversity. I share my journey from making millions at a young age to losing it all and facing the hard truths about my life and values. Deborah and I explore how gratitude, forgiveness, accountability, and inspiration became the foundation of my transformation, helping me rebuild my life and empower others. We also touch on the importance of balancing external achievements with inner fulfillment and why staying true to core principles can guide us through life’s toughest challenges.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Tilman Fertitta, the owner of the Houston Rockets, Golden Nugget Casinos, and Landry’s. Tilman shares how his businesses—spanning restaurants, hospitality, and professional sports—were uniquely challenged during the pandemic and the tough decisions he made to navigate those uncertain times. He reflects on the importance of resilience, making calculated decisions, and maintaining a strong mindset when everything seems to be falling apart. We discuss his hands-on approach, how he prioritizes leadership and culture, and the lessons he's learned from decades of deal-making. Tilman’s humility, work ethic, and focus on empowering others offer insights for anyone seeking to succeed under pressure.

In today’s episode, I explore the transformative power of gratitude and its profound impact on our lives. Gratitude isn’t just about saying thank you—it’s a process that combines appreciation, acknowledgment, and asking. I break down how these practices unlock a cycle of positive biochemical reactions, fostering abundance and reducing the interference of fear and negativity. By recognizing the lessons in challenges and learning to ask for what we want, we align ourselves with a universe of infinite possibilities. Gratitude is the fastest, simplest way to change your life, and in this Thanksgiving episode, I share practical exercises to deepen its role in creating fulfillment and success.

In today’s episode, I speak with Helene Beck, host of the Coming from the Heart podcast, about the transformative power of kindness and purpose. I reflect on pivotal moments, including the lessons my father taught me and the wake-up call that forced me to confront the person I had become. Losing everything became the catalyst for rebuilding my life with intention, focusing on values like generosity and authenticity. Helene shares her journey of rediscovery and how personal challenges inspired her mission to connect with others. Together, we explore how meaningful change begins with self-awareness and how aligning our actions with kindness can lead to lasting success.

In today’s episode, I speak with Vivek Ranadivé, owner and chairman of the Sacramento Kings, entrepreneur, and visionary behind Bow Capital. Vivek shares his incredible journey from arriving in America with $50 in his pocket to becoming a leader in technology and professional sports. He reflects on how his fascination with innovation and teamwork helped him turn dreams into reality, from studying at MIT to reshaping basketball culture. Vivek explains his approach to leadership as a “jazz band conductor,” fostering creativity and collaboration, and the philosophy that pushing boundaries leads to success.

To celebrate the launch of 2 Minute Drill Season 6, this episode breaks down what it takes to deliver the perfect pitch. Later in the episode, I am joined by some of our incredible guest judges to discuss how credibility, emotional connection, and transparency can turn a good pitch into a great one. These insights are designed to help you clearly articulate the value you are providing and to increase your odds at success. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

In today’s episode, I join Chad Sanschagrin, founder of Cannonball Moments, during his Keep Telling Yourself webinar series. We discuss the transformative power of shifting your narrative, building faith, and embracing gratitude as a daily practice. Chad shares his unique insights on leadership, growth, and his journey from top-performing sales professional to sought-after speaker and coach. I reflect on the lessons I’ve learned from losing $100 million and how I’ve used that experience to create a life of abundance and purpose. Together, we explore the importance of declaring your worth, surrounding yourself with the right community, and finding strength through faith to make a greater impact.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Shawn Dill and Lacey Book, two incredible entrepreneurs and business coaches, as we dive into the challenges and rewards of building a team that grows with your business. I share my own strategies for evaluating team performance and managing the emotional expense of hiring and firing, while Shawn and Lacey discuss their innovative approach to employee development, including an annual exercise where team members present their roles, responsibilities, and goals. We explore how to align individual and company growth, why titles should be fluid, and how fostering collaboration over competition creates lasting success for everyone involved.

In today’s episode, I connect with Larry “Duce” Raymond, a barbecue pioneer whose path mirrors my own in unexpected ways. From losing everything to rebuilding stronger, we share how the toughest setbacks can become the foundation for incredible growth. Duce opens up about navigating the near-collapse of his catering business, while I reflect on the lessons learned from losing $100 million and finding a better version of myself. Together, we discuss the importance of mindset, self-image, and faith in overcoming challenges, as well as the value of surrounding yourself with the right people to unlock your full potential.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Karen Hall, host of The Hero Within Podcast, to share my journey from a life driven by financial success to one filled with gratitude, forgiveness, and purpose. I open up about how growing up in scarcity pushed me to chase wealth, only to discover that money couldn’t buy happiness. Despite reaching unimaginable financial heights, I lost everything—and hit rock bottom. My wife’s unwavering belief in me became the turning point, inspiring me to take stock of who I truly wanted to be. Now, I focus on empowering others with the lessons I learned, hoping to help others find fulfillment, healing, and happiness beyond material success.

In today’s episode, I join Shawn Lynch and Jenry Kelley from The Success Formula Podcast to share the pivotal experiences that reshaped my understanding of wealth, purpose, and resilience. I discuss my journey from immense financial success to devastating bankruptcy, revealing how losing everything became the greatest turning point in my life. We cover the early days of my career, the drive for success, and the relentless ambition that ultimately led to my downfall. Through that hard-earned lesson, I came to understand the true meaning of fulfillment, fueled by faith, gratitude, and the strength to rebuild from zero.

In today's episode, I’m joined by master mentalist Oz Pearlman, who brings his powerful blend of charisma, perception, and mind-reading to the table. We talk about how Oz’s background in magic shaped his unique skill set, helping him captivate audiences and build deep connections without relying on props. I share some of my own experiences with using perception in public speaking, and Oz and I explore how his techniques aren’t just about entertainment; they create lasting moments that translate into value for leaders, entrepreneurs, and teams alike. From reading minds to reading rooms, this conversation shows how perception can be a powerful business tool.

In today’s episode, I explore the power of adaptability and the importance of aligning intentions with actions. I share my approach to overcoming challenges by reframing feelings of being "stuck" as opportunities for growth and learning. From using a flexible framework for decision-making to navigating life's uncertainties, I emphasize how consistent behaviors—not outcomes—create progress. I discuss the role of gratitude, forgiveness, accountability, and effective communication in managing relationships and expanding our capacity for success. Whether addressing the discomfort of tough questions or embracing the lessons in setbacks, I offer insights into creating alignment with the infinite possibilities that lie ahead. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I sit down with Chris Nichols of The Nichols and Dimez Show, where he uncovers the unique intersections of tech, sports, and business. We talk about the strategic role of venture capital and the importance of building quantitative value into every pitch, a skill that became my cornerstone as I transitioned from tech to CEO of a global sports agency. Chris and I also explore the differences between being a founder and a CEO, the unexpected lessons from past mentors, and the power of leveraging relationships. From sports to startups, we dive into the mindset that creates lasting impact and growth.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by real estate entrepreneur Ryan Pineda, who has invested over $100 million and built seven successful businesses. We explore the challenges of building a community in today’s competitive landscape and how leveraging existing brands can elevate your business. Ryan shares insights on his experiences creating Wealthy University and I discuss my decision to license the legacy of Napoleon Hill to build a new, powerful community. We dive into the financial and personal struggles that come with entrepreneurship and how to find opportunities, even in difficult times. Together, we discuss the mindset required to build long-lasting success and resilience.

In today’s episode, I sit down with John Assaraf to talk about the hard-earned lessons I learned from building, losing, and rebuilding a $100 million empire. I open up about the realities of overcoming setbacks, the shift in values that shaped my journey forward, and how gratitude and resilience became the foundation of a truly fulfilling life. We get into the daily habits that keep us moving forward, the mindset needed to bounce back from failure, and the importance of defining success on your own terms—creating a path that brings genuine purpose and clarity in the face of life’s biggest challenges.

In today’s episode, I join Rhett Power and Cynthia Johnson on Best Seller TV to share the journey from owning 33 homes in San Diego to losing everything—and the powerful lesson my mother taught me in the wake of that loss. We discuss the ideas behind my book, Connected to Goodness, focusing on gratitude, resilience, and the importance of being true to yourself, even when the cost seems high. From aligning thoughts, actions, and beliefs to embracing the concept of “I am,” we explore how setbacks reveal the deeper purpose within us. Together, we consider how collective energy, faith, and intentionality can help rebuild a life with meaning and fulfillment.

In today’s episode, I talk with Ralph Adamo of The Power of Integrity podcast. I reflect on a pivotal moment when a simple empty jacket gifted to me by my father reminded me of what truly matters, leading to a profound shift in how I view success and fulfillment. From reaching extraordinary financial heights to losing everything, I discuss how embracing integrity and authenticity became my foundation. Ralph shares his insights on leading with purpose, and together we dive into the impact of staying true to core values in business and in life. We explore how grounding ourselves in honesty can transform our journeys, relationships, and ultimate sense of purpose.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michael Chandler, a three-time MMA world champion known for his relentless drive and redemption story. From humble beginnings, Michael shares how his small-town work ethic shaped his journey, allowing him to overcome self-doubt and self-sabotage to become a top UFC lightweight fighter. We discuss his early wrestling days, his faith, and the mindset that fuels him both inside and outside the cage. Michael’s reflections on resilience, fear, and the unending pursuit of excellence reveal what it truly means to embrace purpose and continuously push forward, regardless of setbacks.

In today’s episode, I share essential lessons to help children thrive, from cultivating inner strength to embracing gratitude. We’ll explore the power of silence, freeing ourselves from external validation, and focusing on possibilities over problems. I discuss how pain can guide us toward growth, the value of meaningful connections, and navigating the “anxiety zone” without losing resilience. Each lesson aims to nurture a mindset of doing our best, learning, and finding joy along the way. Through these principles, I hope to empower young people to develop the courage to be who they truly are and pursue their fullest potential. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I share the journey that reshaped my life and outlook. From growing up with financial struggles to reaching immense wealth, I discuss how I lost everything and the pivotal insights that helped me rebuild. I explore how my values evolved, revealing the impact of chasing superficial goals versus pursuing meaningful ones. Joined by Ruben, Darius, and Rob, we dig into the importance of “why” in setting sustainable goals, the future of AI in sales, and the value of investing in one’s skills and desires. Through stories and lessons, I hope to inspire a path toward a life of abundance and purpose.