The Soul Proprietor

Ever feel like your faith, your business, and who you’re becoming… don’t quite line up anymore?That’s where this conversation goes.Curt Kempton and Melody Edwards sit down with Josh Latimer for Part 2—and instead of clean answers, they follow the tension. The result is a conversation that moves through belief, doubt, identity, and what happens when long-held frameworks start to shift.This is about answering what feels true and what doesn’t anymore.For anyone who’s felt that quiet disconnect between what they were taught and what they’re actually experiencing… this one will feel familiar.What They Talk About:Why Curt can't stand "fake it till you make it" and Josh's alternative: holding the poseThe moment business trophies start gathering dust, and what it means for identity and growthMelody's fierce struggle with inherited faith, especially when her core values collide with evangelical politicsJosh's "God as good dad" framework and why he puts religion itself on the chopping blockParenting through spiritual evolution.. how Josh talks about faith and shame with his kids (very unfiltered)The story of Uncle Roger, the lovable career criminal, and what it reveals about judgment, grace, and cosmic "grading on a curve"Why entrepreneurial paths aren't for everyone and Josh's Home Improvement marathon as parenting philosophyRiffing on economics: business as a garden vs. a pie, why value multiplies, and how real wealth is created collaborativelyKey Takeaways:You can outgrow your religious programming without tossing out the concept of a loving creator.Business (done well) is about serving people, not extracting value—it’s a messy, generative web, not a zero-sum game.There’s deep power (and pain) in living with uncertainty, wrestling with faith, and giving yourself permission to change your mind.The roles we play in work, faith, and family aren’t interchangeable; your gifts matter exactly as they are.Timestamps:00:00: Why Josh can't stand religion and how Jesus fits in01:44: The problem with "fake it till you make it" and the cost of certainty09:23: God as good dad—Josh’s first principles17:07: Sin, shame, and how Josh handles messy kid conversations25:05: Are entrepreneurs born or made? The athlete/engineer/artist tribe31:15: Wrestling with belief systems and finding spiritual freedom41:57: Serving people, not money, and reframing economic value(And yes, they planned to talk more about business and marketing. But they didn’t!)

In this episode, Curt and Melody sit down with longtime friend and mentor Josh Latimer for a conversation that goes far beyond business strategy.They dig into the uncomfortable side of growth... why leveling up often feels like loss, how identity quietly sets the ceiling for your success, and why confidence has less to do with what you know and more to do with what you’ve proven to yourself.Josh shares openly about failure, reinvention, faith, and the patterns that keep entrepreneurs stuck, even when they “know” what to do.If you’ve ever felt like you’re circling the same level despite doing the work, this conversation offers a different lens.. one that might challenge more than it comforts.Key Takeaways:You can’t carry your old identity into your next chapter.. real change feels like death, and that’s necessaryIntegrity pays off over time, even when it feels like you’re falling behind the narcissists in the short runConfidence doesn’t come from knowing more.. it comes from stacking real evidence through messy, relentless actionYour “purpose” is less about waiting for a big sign and more about showing up as yourself, right now, imperfectlyThe people at the top are usually just painfully average, except for their willingness to think bigger, move faster, and do moreTimestamps:0:00 – Josh’s “if it’s worth it, do it” philosophy8:34 – Identity deaths, destiny, and $100M generosity17:28 – Meeting your heroes: why it matters21:27 – Melody’s purpose-versus-profit struggle27:26 – The messy truth about religious baggage and family39:30 – Confidence, “holding the pose,” and the alter ego effect44:45 – Public speaking terror and why more volume changes everything

Melody’s nearly ready to start a fight club or at least dish out a little “petty justice.” This episode is basically what happens when you hit your late 40s and realize you’re done tiptoeing around fragile egos, especially when being “nice” never seems to work out. Curt and Melody share about a messy neighbor drama, the exhausting rules women are still expected to follow, and where standing up for yourself starts to feel like a crime.What They Talk About:The saga of Melody vs. her neighbor’s rowdy late-night parties (and why she almost landed in jail over a phone snatch)Why Melody is officially out of patience for dimming herself to coddle male egos and what happens when she doesn’tThe story about Matt’s black belt and the absolutely worst time to mention it to drunk party brosCurt’s “Bro Code” theory and how it played out when the cops showed upHow Melody’s fight for peace triggered flashbacks to her old, much scarier neighbor (yeah, the one who literally sued everyone)Why “Karen” isn’t quite the insult you think it is.. at least not when you’re just fighting for some sleepCurt’s frank take on male vs. female expectations in parenting and work (featuring Rachel’s frozen dinners)What changes and what doesn’t—frustration with slow progress, politics, and why real change takes generationsKey Takeaways:Sometimes, standing up for yourself will absolutely make you “the problem” and that’s still better than shrinking.There’s a real energy boost in letting yourself feel anger instead of constantly bottling it up.The rules and expectations placed on women (and especially moms) run much deeper than most guys ever realize.If you’re tired of being a pushover, you don’t suddenly have to become a jerk.. you just get to stop apologizing for being yourself.Real change is slow, messy, and full of setbacks, but the small ways we show up matter.Timestamps:0:00 — The great neighbor meltdown/night of petty justice10:12 — Melody’s realization: done dimming herself18:55 — “Bro Code,” cops, and gendered assumptions33:30 — Women in business and Melody’s double bind43:41 — Curt’s take on mom guilt vs. dad self-permission54:55 — Why systemic change is agonizingly slow1:04:00 — Petty justice as self-respect (plus closing laughs)

Everyone keeps saying AI should make our work lives easier but is anyone actually working less? This week, Melody and Curt talk about burnout, why faster tech just puts more on our plates, and how even “delegating” can feel like another job. It’s one part therapy session, one part practical experiment in finding sanity as a business owner in the AI age.What They Talk About:Why Melody felt instant relief when her whole company shut down for a day and what “freedom” really means with a teamThe women’s conference revelations: burn bright vs. burn out, a keynote on facing 100 fears, and why “comfort” is the real enemy of progressCurt's wild ride with AI—doing a month’s work in a day and somehow always being more exhaustedWhen dashboards become soul-sucking rabbit holes (and the awkward truth about who actually uses them)The invisible job of being everyone’s safety net and why no one feels comfortable stepping awayMicro-exhaustion and the “AI brain fry” phenomenon: more automation equals more fragmented days, not fewer headachesThat laundry list of burnout symptoms (yes, irritability is there) and how recognizing them still doesn’t make the work less temptingHonest talk about work addiction, recovery, and the ambiguous dream of finally “taking a month off”Key Takeaways:AI makes you more productive, but it also ramps up the speed and volume of decisions until your brain feels deep-friedThe real relief comes from connection and proactively creating space, not just optimizing workflows or working fasterDelegation is its own skill and even in a tech-powered world, it’s hard to let go without a serious mindset shiftSometimes you need to commit, out loud, to shutting the laptop and going outside.. even if you have to guilt yourself into itTimestamps:0:00 – Why “working less” with AI is not the reality11:07 – 10 warning signs of burnout (and both hosts fess up)17:32 – Curt's AI workflow and the mounting pressure to keep up26:44 – The dashboard dilemma: building for everyone, used by no one38:03 – The micro-exhaustion cycle and lost space for thinking49:05 – Let’s actually commit: little changes for a saner week57:22 – Wrapping up: spring mulching, Easter sunrise, and choosing sanity over speed

Curt and Melody are wrestling with what “normal” even means anymore.. especially for Gen X business owners living through the AI revolution. If you’ve ever wondered whether tech is actually making life easier or just making you feel like you’re always chasing your tail, this one’s for you. They dig into overwhelm, nostalgia, adaptability, and whether anyone actually knows what’s real online.What They Talked About: Why Melody feels scared (not just overwhelmed) about AI’s rise and what keeps her up at nightCurt’s hacks for speeding up everything with AI voice tools (and a rant about Siri being useless)The story about Rachel’s dinner, “people better start caring,” and how family dinners are an endangered speciesMelody’s struggle to process her month-and-a-half of travel and why “catching up” never happensWhat happened when Curt tried to run events for real-life connection and why folks stopped showing upThe “forced to adapt” feeling for entrepreneurs: gun-to-the-head vibesDisposable information and the risk of losing actual wisdom (plus how Gen Z kids just see all this as normal)Old-school learning vs. AI-assisted thinking—and whether school will ever catch upKey Takeaways:Overwhelm isn’t just about pace; it’s about losing the freedom to choose your own prioritiesEven with all our tech, quality of life sometimes feels less “real” and more fragmentedHuman connection remains essential—but people aren’t voting for it with their dollars (yet)Adaptation is inevitable, but forced adaptation is what breeds anxiety for business ownersWisdom comes from wrestling with uncertainty, not just having instant answersTimestamps:[00:00] - Are we optimistic or pessimistic for the future? Kicking off with big, existential questions[07:10] - Melody’s CleanCon trip and the AI coding class struggle[12:34] - Is AI actually making work easier, or just shifting the burden?[22:10] - The “forced to adapt” dilemma and ADHD entrepreneurial brains[30:04] - The Gen Z perspective: kids who see fast change as normal[44:23] - Can schools keep up with AI, or are they doomed to lag?[47:34] - Social trust, scams, and the scary side of instant information[51:08] - Happiness and contentment: why chasing it never works

Ever wonder what really happens when workaholism, family expectations, and a purpose-driven heart collide? In this episode, Melody and Curt dig into the reality of entrepreneurship with Michael Hinderliter—aka the “power wash guy”—who’s lived through business reinvention, divorce, and the very human challenge of not losing yourself (or your mind) along the way.What We Talk About:The story of how Melody and Michael managed to become genuine friends despite wildly different backgrounds, politics, and very different flights to ItalyWhy Michael’s dad trained him in power washing... after his failed union organizing left him blackballed from the industryWhat it’s like growing up “power washing royalty” and why Michael never bought into the hype (or used his last name as a business card)The chaos (and crumbling) of running a business with your spouse and what happens when your identities (and failures) get all tangled upCurt and Melody trading notes on marriage dynamics: ride-or-die loyalty, chaos muppets vs. moored partners, and why most of us are building our businesses for our families (and sometimes forgetting to check if it’s actually working)The truth about depression for entrepreneurs, and Michael’s way of climbing out of the pit.. plus why time isn’t your most valuable asset, but your mind isPurpose, faith, and why Michael prays for people who’ve hurt him (including his exes—yes, really)What changes when you become a grandparent (hint: more joy, less exhaustion), and why the “happiness chase” is a game you only win by stepping out of itKey Takeaways:Chasing “success” for your family while burning yourself out rarely ends with connection or peace—it might undermine bothAdmitting you don’t have all the answers (or that you’ve been wrong) is where real growth starts, not where it endsRelationships—business, personal, or even with yourself.. don’t get better by default; they get better with honesty and uncomfortable workEveryone’s fighting battles you can’t see, and almost nobody fits the mold you thought was universal when you were 25Timestamps:[00:00] Raw opening – showing emotion vs. losing respect[00:41] Introductions & the Italy “diplomacy” story[11:47] Michael’s family, union busting, and the birth of a power washing legacy[22:09] Marriage, working 24/7 with your spouse, and when things fall apart[35:56] Post-divorce, depression, and the struggle to find meaning again[46:10] Faith, business, and praying for people who’ve hurt you[57:56] Becoming a grandparent and shifting family roles[1:03:29] Stereotypes, gender roles, and learning to rethink old beliefs[1:24:16] Showing emotion as a leader—where’s the line?[1:26:12] The difference between happiness, purpose, and surviving the rollercoaster

Mental health is one of those things entrepreneurs love to ignore, but it sneaks up on all of us (usually in the form of workaholism, anxiety, or quarter-life crises... that somehow become annual). In this part 3 episode with Bobby Walker, Curt & Melody share about their own struggles, childhood trauma, religious dogma, and the ways business ownership can both help and hurt your brain. If you've ever felt like you're rolling a boulder uphill or hiding your symptoms behind “just working really hard,” this conversation is for you.What They Talk About:Why Melody thinks workaholism is basically a generational sickness (and also the only way to survive entrepreneurship)The story about Bobby Walker realizing he was “depressed”.. months into not being able to get out of bedCurt's framework for how religion shaped his view of mental health (and how the paradigm crumbled)Why “Rub some dirt on it!” was the emotional regulation lesson of the '80s/'90sThe false idea that business success equals happiness (and how the next big win is always… less satisfying than you hoped)How trauma, dissociation, and ADHD show up as secret weapons (and sometimes landmines) in businessMelody's perspective on why female entrepreneurs carry extra guilt, even when they're supporting their familiesThe importance of moving from sympathy (thinking “that must be hard”) to real empathy (“this is what it feels like, and it changes how I lead”)Key Takeaways:Self-awareness is the first step, but you have to actually want to look inward otherwise you’ll just keep distracting yourself with work or goals“Doing it for my family” can become an excuse for avoiding real healing and perpetuating unhealthy cyclesEmpathy (not just sympathy) changes how you show up for your team, your customers, and yourself.. even if it takes a few decades and a lot of therapy to get therePowerful stuff (business, habits, trauma) can build roadways or blow things up—it’s about how you wield itEntrepreneurship doesn’t automatically make you “better”—it just reveals what you haven’t dealt with yetHere's the link about the addiction bird Curt mentioned about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUngLgGRJpoTimestamps:0:00 – Childhood lessons on ignoring pain7:00 – Emotional regulation and “rub some dirt on it”18:00 – Religion vs. mental health28:00 – When the paradigm breaks down41:00 – Workaholism, cycles, and entrepreneur guilt54:00 – Self-awareness, acceptance, and juggling family vs. business

Entrepreneurs love the thrill of chasing the unknown or do they actually crave certainty and stability more than they'd admit? In this episode, Melody and Curt spiral through the chaos, uncertainty, and optimism that seem baked into business ownership. It's a closer look at why we white-knuckle through unpredictability, and whether being “addicted to uncertainty” is actually a badge of honor or just a survival strategy.What Curt & Melody Talk About:Why Melody left her pearls (literally!) and car keys at a hotel, and what losing stuff teaches her about letting goCurt’s ongoing battle with white-knuckling decisions and the existential “rug pull” he expects daily as an entrepreneurThe story about Melody’s Filipino team facing economic instability, and what “I pay living wages” really feels like during a crisisReligions as systems for creating certainty and whether God cares about car keys (spoiler: this gets deep and funny)How meditation, mountain biking, and rocky business times help Curt find peace at rock bottom, but only temporarilyMelody’s comfort with chaos: why calm situations sometimes stress her out more than the messy onesThe carrot metaphor: chasing goals we’ll never truly catch, and why achieving big things leaves us weirdly unsatisfiedMicro-certainties vs. macro-unknowing—Melody’s recent aha’s about social media, and why they’re fleeting but helpfulKey Takeaways:Being addicted to uncertainty may just be a survival skill for entrepreneurs: if you don’t adapt, the chaos eats you aliveCertainty is almost always an illusion systems break, relationships change, and the world is rarely predictableHolding happiness hostage to certainty leads to cynicism; learning to find comfort in unknowing is essential for sanityPractical wins (micro-certainties) help, but everything shifts again.. so keep curiosity alive and don’t cling too hardEthical business means wrestling with pain, firing people, and accepting that every lesson usually needs repeatingTimestamps:8:07 - Entrepreneurs and the daily “rug pull”12:15 - Spirituality as a system for certainty (and God + car keys)20:16 - Addicted to chaos: Melody's money mindset and life at the edge32:07 - The uniqueness of every hard business decision45:02 - Curt on finding peace in uncertainty (and the carrot you never catch)48:18 - Micro-certainties and why they never last

Sometimes you just have a "blah" day and if you’re an entrepreneur, the pressure to stay “on” can make you question everything. This episode is the business owner’s confessional: Melody admits she’s feeling stuck and a little sun-starved, and Curt brings stories of finding creative flow and how wisdom (or sometimes, exhaustion) shapes what actually matters in your workday. They talk through not-so-sparkly days, bike-racing and doping analogies, the myth of endless hustle, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is outsource, nap, or both.What They Talk About:Why Melody feels creatively blocked (and why pretending otherwise just makes it worse)Curt’s analogy to Tour de France doping: is chasing old levels of productivity actually the goal?The story about driving above the clouds just to see the sun again and why that’s sometimes a business moveHow ADHD brains tangle them up in complex spreadsheets we’ll never look at againWhy Melody finally hired someone to build her sales funnels (and stopped pretending she’d love email templates someday)Curt’s take on “who, not how” and the relief of paying for help instead of DIY purgatoryThe difference between being a founder building with sheer hustle and having wisdom about where your energy actually belongsHonest thoughts about humility, hiring your own boss, and knowing when to step backKey Takeaways:Trying to push through mental fog usually just wastes more time and gives worse results, sometimes it’s better to pause or get help.You don’t have to keep doing everything just because you can; wisdom is cutting tasks that don’t move the needle for you.Knowing your limits and hiring people who love the pieces you hate which is a sign of maturity, not failure.Adapting how you work as your business grows is required; who got you to Point A probably isn’t who’ll get you to Point Z.Timestamps:0:00 – Chasing sunshine (literally) and admitting creative block2:00 – The myth of endless founder flow6:45 – Tour de France doping, business, and wisdom over hustle13:30 – Outsourcing, the “who not how” rule, and hiring your own boss16:00 – Wrapping up: humility, naps, and knowing yourself

Ever felt like your faith got you into business and then one day, it didn’t fit anymore? In this head-spinning, raw, and sometimes hilarious episode, Curt sits down with Bobby Walker (for round two!) to peel back the story of deconversion: from zealous Pentecostal minister to proud atheist, with marriage, business, and “the dark night of the soul” along for the ride. This one’s for anyone who’s ever questioned their foundation and wondered what happens next.What They Talk About:The “Sunday night canceled = atheist now?” story—Bobby Walker’s domino moment that started with questioning church servicesWhen everything you believed suddenly starts to crumble, one brick at a time (and why Curt’s shelf analogy totally lands)The awkward, terrifying moment you tell your spouse “I think I don’t believe anymore”—and how both Curt and Bobby Walker survived itWhy “just read and pray more” is both the best and worst faith crisis advice everShame, honesty, and holding back from your partner—the mess and the relief of finally letting it outHow losing faith changed (and didn’t change) Bobby Walker’s experience as an entrepreneur (“Turns out, atheists need tribes too”)Morality without God—how both guys wrestle with the fear that “if you’re not a believer, you just want to sin and eat babies”The therapist story that did not go as planned (and why we both eventually needed real help)Friendship across total belief difference—and why that’s the real miracle hereKey Takeaways:Questioning everything isn’t a sign you want to “escape”—it’s usually the grittiest, most honest road there isDeconversion isn’t a single moment; it’s death by a thousand cuts (and lots gets left unsaid)Bringing shame and fear to light—especially with your spouse—is brutal but also freeingYou don’t lose your morals when you lose your faith—but that doesn’t mean people won’t judge you like you didSometimes, caring for yourself means finding friends—or pros—who can actually sit with you in the discomfortNo fake “wrap-up”—just a meandering conversation about growing up, breaking down, and maybe finding yourself (and your business) on the other side.

Curt and Melody bring on Bobby Walker for the ultimate "what actually happens when you go from devout faith to atheism AND still try to build a purposeful business?" episode. Imagine three close friends debating God, morality, and whether Coldplay concerts count as spiritual experiences.. without any certainty, plenty of sarcasm, and zero patience for cheap shots.What They Talk About:The moment Bobby realized Sunday night church wasn't actually biblical and the cascade it sparked (34:10)Why Curt thinks religious people often label other people's spiritual experiences as counterfeit (19:12)Melody’s “am I going to hell?” inner monologue, and why those childhood teachings refuse to dieBobby’s clear, no-nonsense breakdown of atheism vs. agnosticism—finally, axes that make senseWhat it feels like to tell your spouse you don’t believe anymore (hint: it goes worse in your head than in the car)Coldplay as church: Bobby tells the story of finding communal, transcendent joy without faith (17:31)Where morality comes from when you kick God out (spoiler: no one is robbing banks)How shame, boundaries, and hard self-work defined Bobby’s post-religious mental health journeyKey Takeaways:Deconversion is rarely a sudden break; it’s years of fighting to hold on and then fighting to let goMorality and kindness don’t evaporate when you drop faith, but the fear of “what will they say?” sticks around for agesChildhood religious training leaves deep marks (hello, “I’m going to hell” anxiety, even when you don’t believe)Self-worth and identity have to be rebuilt outside the faith bubble, often for the first timeSpiritual feelings aren’t limited to church; music, nature, and community can offer the same rush.. if you let themTimestamps:00:00 - Bobby’s journey from faith to atheism begins04:47 - Defining atheism, beliefs, and knowledge14:13 - Bobby as the church zealot, how his faith shaped him16:00 - Where meaning comes from after religion (nature, music, Coldplay)19:12 - Curt’s tangent on spirituality outside the church—and why people won’t admit it31:06 - The “atheists have no morals” myth34:10 - Losing your faith over Sunday night services (the domino effect)39:27 - The terrifying moment: telling your spouse you don’t believe anymore41:51 - Cliffhanger—what happens next?

Ever wonder if staying quiet is actually neutral.. or if sometimes, silence is complicit? This week, Melody and Curt digs into the pressure to stay “out of it” when the world feels like it’s falling apart, and what happens when your values bump up against the chaos of politics, family, and business.What They Talk About:Why Melody thinks political fights rarely affect her daily life but the emotional toll is realCurt’s journey from accepting the Bible as infallible to wrestling with contradictions and contextThe story about how family dinners got awkward when politics divided the roomBinary thinking vs. grayscale.. how we’re wired to see right/wrong, and what gets lost in the nuancesThe hidden cost of neutrality: when staying quiet makes you complicit (and how to know)How personal encounters.. window cleaning, travel, meeting gay couples—changed Melody’s worldviewReal experiences with ICE, immigration, and why due process matters for business owners and familiesHolding space for opposing beliefs vs. reaching the limit—Melody’s struggle to keep relationships intact without compromising core valuesKey Takeaways:It’s possible to love someone and still vehemently disagree; the relationship is tested when values are on the lineBinary “good/bad” thinking is comforting but doesn’t hold up in complex human situationsSilence sometimes protects relationships, but can also undermine your own integrityThe narrative fed through media and politics rarely matches your lived reality but you can’t ignore the bigger ethical questions foreverChanging your mind as you grow isn’t flip-flopping—it’s evolving, and wisdom means applying new knowledge thoughtfullyTimestamps:00:00 - The things the country fights about vs. actual daily impact08:00 - Curt’s spiritual/ideological journey20:59 - Binary thinking and polarization27:57 - ICE, immigration stories, and family anxiety38:41 - The cost of keeping conversations “light” in families48:45 - Where persuasion meets righteous anger58:00 - What’s next—holding relationships or taking a stand?01:01:03 - Politics vs. humanity01:05:48 - Wisdom, evolving, and leaving space for others

Ever catch yourself thinking, “Am I happy, or am I just riding the emotional rollercoaster of everyone around me?” This week, Melody and Curt get brutally honest about the messiness of happiness.. how much of it we actually control, how much is tied up in our relationships (and our businesses), and whether you can ever really keep your emotions in your own sandbox.Melody & Curt Talk About:Why Melody’s version of “content” is surviving New England winter, missing her dog, and baby therapy air freshenersCurt’s Viktor Frankl reference and the impossible standard of not letting anyone affect you—and why he’s nowhere close to thatThe story about Melody putting her dog to sleep two days before Christmas (bring tissues, not solutions)Curt’s pancake analogy: feeling both rage and joy about his daughter’s wedding, and why happiness can come from the same thing that makes you miserableThe “box-holding” framework—aka, when you accidentally end up emotionally carrying everyone else’s stuff (and how that plays out at home and in business)How business decisions, delayed pivots, and letting things linger can keep you in “cat poop side” of the sandbox way too longWhy happy isn’t a permanent state, contentment isn’t complacency, and sometimes you just need someone to tell you your perception is dead wrong (hi, Brittany!)The Mountain Biking/Yoga/Weightlifting coping mechanisms, and what actually works to get out of your headKey Takeaways:Nobody is completely immune to the emotions of people they love—trying to be might just make you feel worse.Contentment isn’t laziness; it’s being okay with yourself and your life—even when it’s messy or in-progress.You can’t always “think” your way out of unhappiness, but you can pay attention to where you’re spending your emotional energy (hint: not all of it belongs to you).Sometimes, the bravest move is naming your overwhelm (and letting someone else hold your box… at least for a while).Timestamps: 0:00 – “Are you happy?” and Melody’s tiers of existence5:22 – Grief, joy, winter, and the myth of perpetual happiness16:21 – Business overwhelm and box-holding dynamics34:02 – Sacrifice, spirituality, and not becoming a martyr53:05 – Why you can’t live in other people’s feelings forever01:01:09 – The happiness/contentment split, summarized

Being present sounds easy, but for entrepreneurs whose brains never stop spinning business plates, it can feel downright impossible, especially when family and holiday expectations crash in.In this episode, Melody and Curt talks about what it really takes to show up for your people, why “just turn your phone off” is terrible advice, and how guilt, workaholism, and that familiar business-owner urgency sabotage our best intentions.What They Talk About:Curt’s history of literally working through family outings and the moment he realized “being there” doesn’t mean being presentWhy Melody felt mom guilt even when she was always aware of ignoring her family—and how it’s different for men and women entrepreneursThe story of Curt being “white hot mad” on Christmas Eve and his sister’s reality check about presence and perspectiveWhen providing for your family becomes the excuse for not enjoying them (and why that mindset is so seductive)“Holding things lightly”—the Buddhist therapist hack that changed Curt’s approach to frustration, stress, and ultimately, family timeMelody’s transition from workaholic identity to re-learning how to savor moments with her kids, nephew, and actually herselfMeditating, being silent (even if only for a tenth of a second), and why decompressing is a skill—not an automatic reward for burning outThe only short-term hack that works: If all else fails, just make “being delightful” your job at the family party (it’s weirdly effective)Key Takeaways:Most family “resentment moments” aren’t about the actual holiday mishap—they’re business stress finding a scapegoat.Presence is uncomfortable because silence and unstructured time can feel scarier than replying to emails.Treating holidays like time you “give your family out of generosity” is an ego trap; true presence is a gift to yourself.You won’t change overnight—getting present takes experimentation, therapy, self-mockery, and sometimes just faking it for a couple hours at a time.Timestamps:0:00 – Why being present feels impossible (especially during holidays)4:05 – Curt’s all-time low point for family presence15:00 – The “hold it lightly” therapy metaphor18:46 – Melody’s three things that finally shifted her presence25:55 – When your brain craves work stress more than silence34:16 – Real secrets (and cheats) for putting down the phone and actually being there

Letting people go, holding your team accountable, and figuring out what kind of leader you actually want to be.. none of it’s simple. In this episode, Melody and Curt talks about the messiness of managing people you genuinely care about, the emotional cost of firing, and what happens when your "people-first" values run up against business realities. Expect stories, frustration, a little sparring, and a surprising amount of compassion.What Melody & Curt Talk About:Why Melody waited way too long to fire people (again) and regrets “keeping them because I love them”Curt’s “boiling frog” metaphor for how dysfunction sneaks upThe comfort trap: when loyalty and long-term relationships blur the line between family and businessThe great fight: Is it better to have relationships or to treat staff as interchangeable “numbers?”Real talk on KPIs, weekly scorecards, and why “feelings aren’t data”Melody’s February company reset: six weeks where everyone has to prove they can lead themselvesStruggling with being a “cheerleader” versus embracing the hard-ass accountability roleThe exhaustion (and necessity) of moving someone out of a job, especially in a tiny team where roles overlap and money’s tightThe myth of “changing yourself” into the perfect leader and why building the right leadership team matters moreKey Takeaways:Keeping someone just because you care about them is usually a sign you need to let them go.Accountability doesn’t happen by accident—it takes structure, and sometimes, giving someone else the authority to deliver the tough news.You don’t have to fit the old-school “boss” mold to be a real leader; your job is to find complementary strengths and let go of what drains you.When self-accountability is missing, no number of meetings or systems will save you (but you still have to try).Growth almost always means outgrowing someone. The worst part? You’ll know it long before you act.Timestamps:0:00 – Why it’s so hard to let people go8:55 – Relationship vs. results: The accountability fight31:28 – Wearing too many hats when the business is small46:43 – The myth of the “perfect” leader and reframing leadership roles57:58 – Growth, fear, and why change is always painful (until it isn’t)

Ever get that feeling your brain is sprinting in a million directions while the rest of the world is taking a slow stroll? This episode is all about living and thriving with ADHD as an entrepreneur. Melody shares the vulnerable, messy reality behind her diagnosis and running a business with a “sparkly brain,” while Curt brings his undiagnosed-but-oh-so-familiar Ferrari brain energy and the worry, self-doubt, and relentless hacks that go with it. We get personal, philosophical, and practical about what ADHD means in a world built for Hondas and why that might not be a bad thing.What We Talk About:Why Melody feels like her ADHD diagnosis gave her “the handbook” for her brain (and why Curt resisted getting one)The Ferrari vs. Honda Pilot analogy are ADHD brains just built for a different kind of track?Stories about homework meltdowns, parenting kids with wildly different operating systems, and the heartbreak of letting go of school expectationsThe hacks, tricks, and self-management systems that actually help, plus why those only work for the person who invented themCurt’s visual “milestone” strategy for corralling racing thoughts in meetingsMelody explaining why her whole company is designed for ADHD entrepreneurs (and why work is her “healthy addiction”)How shame and comparison warp the experience of ADHD and the real work of finding your strengthsWhat happens when faith, God, and fairness collide with neurodiversity (Curt gets philosophical!)Key Takeaways:ADHD isn’t just distractibility—it’s relentless energy and hyperfocus that can be superpowers if you learn to channel them (but the crash is real)Diagnosis isn’t a crutch—it’s the start of self-compassion, better strategies, and actual confidenceThe best hacks are unique—trying to model someone else’s perfect system usually ends in chaos (or shame)Building a purpose-driven business is possible with ADHD, but you need systems, structure, and help—and it still won’t be linearParenting, business, and relationships are all harder—and richer—when you embrace the unpredictability instead of fighting itTimestamps:0:00 – Melody’s ADHD energy and the joy of new ideas1:10 – Diagnosis journeys and how it shifts self-perception6:00 – Ferrari brains vs. Honda brains: what does that mean for business and life?16:00 – Hacks for keeping focus (but only if they fit your brain)30:00 – ADHD tendencies and why entrepreneurship attracts them39:00 – The faith question: why are we all so different, and what does that mean?46:00 – Everyday coping strategies that actually stick

Curt and Melody sit down with their friend Meaghan Likes- entrepreneur, accountant, investor, and the human behind the name Meg Likes Money, for a conversation that goes exactly nowhere they expected.Curt tries to talk about capitalism.Meaghan politely shuts that down.And what unfolds is a surprisingly grounded conversation about money, power, obligation, and what’s really driving entrepreneurs when they say they “want more.”Meaghan has built and partnered in businesses across accounting, software, home services, and tech. She’s seen the bank accounts, profit margins, and pressure points behind thousands of businesses. She’s sat behind closed doors with very wealthy people. And she’s watched, up close, what money actually does (and doesn’t) fix.Her Take? It’s almost never about the money.They talk about-Why chasing money is usually a cover for something else-The moral obligation entrepreneurs take on when they choose to build-Why profit isn’t greedy-How money reveals people instead of changing them-Why “passive income” is mostly a myth-What happens when you stop making money about youThis episode is thoughtful, funny, and occasionally uncomfortable, but it’s the kind of conversation that will stick with you.If you’ve ever felt conflicted about money…This one’s for you.

Partnerships sound amazing!Another brain.Shared responsibility. Someone else to help shoulder the weight of building something hard.But what happens when real life tests the agreement you signed on a good day?In this episode, Curt and Melody talk honestly about their own business partnership experiences and what they’ve learned.This isn’t a how-to episode. Although there is advice, there’s no checklist that guarantees success. It’s a conversation about what partnerships actually feel like from the inside. The good, the awkward, and the parts no one likes to talk about.If you’re thinking about teaming up, already in a partnership, or quietly wondering whether you should have asked better questions before signing anything… this one’s for you.

What happens when two “sparkly-brained” entrepreneurs sit down to explore what it really means to be a business misfit? In this Special Christmaas episode, Curt and Melody revisit their first-ever podcast conversation, diving into the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship, vision, and vulnerability. You’ll hear their candid takes on fighting imposter syndrome, the magic (and madness!) of visionary leadership, and why emotional intelligence is as vital as your bottom line. They swap stories about the joys and messiness of building a business your own way, how to harness big ideas without overwhelming your team, and what it takes to filter out business advice that doesn’t match your values. There’s plenty here for anyone curious about authentic business leadership, routines that actually work for the ultra-creative, and the future of AI-powered small business. Tune in for a high-energy, deeply honest episode perfect for anyone feeling a little like a misfit in the world of entrepreneurship.

Have you ever wondered how Melody and Curt met and started this podcast? Well, this is your chance to know how everything started! In this special episode, we’re bringing back one of the episodes of Melody’s previous podcast, Business Misfits Podcast, where Curt was one of the guests of Melody. And this is their first-ever recording together!This episode talks about the challenges of entrepreneurship, covering topics like imposter syndrome, emotional intelligence, business growth, and building authentic company culture.Curt and Melody share honest insights about leadership, hiring visionary teams, implementing new habits, and embracing change.. especially with AI’s impact on small businesses! Their candid conversation resonates with business owners who feel like misfits, encouraging listeners to stay true to their values, build genuine relationships, and never stop growing. Perfect for entrepreneurs seeking real talk and actionable advice.If you want to hear two friends debate, laugh, and call out the weirdness of running a business that actually means something to you, you’ll probably enjoy tuning in to this one.

This week on Soul Proprietor: Does integrity actually pay off in business?Melody and Curt swap stories about reputations being tested, the messy reality of trying to do the right thing, and what it feels like when your best intentions completely miss the mark.The conversation swings between frustrating and funny as they dissect the gap between our noble stories about operating with integrity and what actually happens when money’s on the line.This episode is for you if:• You’ve ever questioned whether being the “good guy” is worth the cost• You find yourself overthinking every business decision• You’re building a values-driven business and need honest guidance, not platitudes

Curt and Melody get real about how different communities have shaped their lives as entrepreneurs .. from women’s business meetups to sales conferences and even working with international teams. Melody talks about what it felt like to step into new circles and suddenly question where she really belonged, while Curt shares the surprise of joining a sales group he never thought would be “his” kind of space.They trade stories about what it’s like to work with people in the Philippines, handle everyday challenges, and push through bigger setbacks along the way. The conversation naturally drifts into what happens when your assumptions get challenged, and how both big rooms and small, tight-knit groups can offer support in totally unexpected ways.By the end, Curt and Melody concluded on what makes a group feel right and why building the kind of community you actually want takes a little intention, a lot of curiosity, and the flexibility to try things that might feel uncomfortable at first.No perfect formula, just honest reflections on why finding spaces that really “click” is worth it.

Certainty feels good.It gives us the illusion of control.But when we hold tight to being “right,” it can make us less open, less curious, and less willing to consider other people’s experiences. That gap can lead us to act in ways that don’t match the values we say we care about.This week, Curt and Melody talk certainty, how religion can shape moral blind spots, when confidence supports leadership and when it gets in the way, and how to stay connected to people who believe differently while still holding your own convictions.This episode will be a thought provoking listen whether you are certain, uncertain, or somewhere in between.

This year? It’s been a lot.Inflation, AI chaos, hiring struggles, tension in the air... and yet, here comes Thanksgiving, asking us to be grateful. So what does that even look like when your legs are cramping (figuratively or otherwise) and your business is running on fumes?In this special Thanksgiving episode, Curt and Melody take a break from the business to reflect on what it actually means to lead with gratitude, not just when things are good, but when you’re tired, depleted, and trying to find meaning in the middle of it all.They cover:Why exhaustion doesn’t always look like burnout (but still matters)How leaders spiral -and what it takes to break the cycleThe danger of over-thanking your team (yep, that’s a thing)Traditions, turkey, and why leftovers are a metaphor for leadershipThe one thing Curt and Melody are most grateful for this yearAnd yes, we promise: there’s a reason we talk about pickle juice.This one’s a warm, honest, slightly weird episode.🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.💬 Leave us a review if this one resonated

Guess What!?We Took The week off...We'll be back next week with a very special Thanksgiving Episode.

This week Curt Kempton and Melody Edwards unpack the hidden cost of caring too much as a business owner. They explore how passion, the very thing that fuels success, can quietly turn into exhaustion and resentment when boundaries aren't in place.Melody shares how taking a week off forced her to see where over-caring had crept in, while Curt reflects on the signs that caring has crossed the line into overextension. Together, they examine what it means to stay invested in your work without letting it consume you.They discuss:How to recognize when caring is causing burnoutThe emotional toll of being “too available”What healthy care looks like versus self-sacrificeSimple ways to reclaim energy and perspectiveThis conversation challenges entrepreneurs to look honestly at where their energy goes, and to redefine what it means to lead with heart without burning out.

Curt and Melody explore the intricate relationship between being a visionary and a control freak in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the delicate balance needed to successfully bring ideas to life. They delve into the challenges entrepreneurs face when trying to realize their visions, often battling the impulse to micro-manage their teams while striving for innovative outcomes. The duo reflects on personal experiences and anecdotes, highlighting how their journeys have shaped their understanding of risk, creativity, and the nuances of leadership. They also touch on the importance of delegation, illustrating how a strong integrator can help visionaries maintain focus while allowing others to contribute meaningfully. Ultimately, this episode serves as a reminder for entrepreneurs to introspectively evaluate their control tendencies and embrace the collaborative spirit necessary for growth.

Sometimes the hardest part of growth (and leadership) is letting go.In this episode, Curt and Melody get honest about what it really takes to evolve your business without betraying your values. They unpack how control, care, and clarity can all coexist — and what happens when holding on too tight starts to suffocate the very growth you’ve been working for. This one’s about trust, boundaries, and the kind of maturity that doesn’t always feel good while it’s happening, but always leads somewhere truer.They talk about:Why “letting go” isn’t the same as giving upHow to trust what you’ve already built -the systems, people, and processWhat discernment means in leadershipThe cost (and payoff) of clarity

This week Curt and Melody are naming the thing so many entrepreneurs quietly wrestle with: workaholism.In a culture that glorifies the hustle, they ask, where’s the line between healthy drive and emotional avoidance?They swap stories of burnout, self-sabotage, and the tricky ways “freedom” can turn into just another excuse to stay busy. Melody opens up about life after selling her first business (and why she still calls herself a recovering workaholic). Curt shares the year a product launch nearly broke him.It’s a candid conversation about how busyness becomes a socially acceptable way to numb, and how to notice the signs before you burn out and hit the wall.It's honest, funny, a little raw, and ultimately hopeful.If you ever feel guilty for resting, this episode is definitely for you!

Curt and Melody unpack the ethical questions around artificial intelligence in this episode of The Soul Proprietor Podcast. They explore how AI can be both a powerful tool for creativity and productivity, and a challenge to authenticity and human connection. With humor and honesty, they share personal stories about using AI, touching on fears of job loss, whether it will inspire or destroy creativity, and the risks of over-reliance.

Curt Kempton and Melody Edwards ask a tough question in this episode of The Soul Proprietor Podcast: is it God guiding decisions, or is it us? They dig into faith vs personal accountability, sharing real-life stories that challenge traditional beliefs. The conversation explores how to tell the difference between divine inspiration and personal ambition, and why humility and responsibility matter when navigating both faith and business.With honesty and humor, they admit the tension of faith and skepticism in their own lives. The episode highlights that faith isn’t a simple answer; it’s an ongoing process of growth, doubt, and discovery. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own beliefs and to see both faith and entrepreneurship as journeys shaped by uncertainty, responsibility, and opportunity.

Curt and Melody talk about how to sell without losing your integrity in this episode of The Soul Proprietor Podcast. They share the common struggle many entrepreneurs face-wanting to help people but fearing sales will make them seem pushy or fake. Melody reflects on how she leans on referrals and avoids traditional sales, while Curt describes how selling services sometimes left him feeling like a fraud.Together, they explore how sales can shift from a transaction to a relationship. They stress the importance of believing in what you offer, building trust, and staying aligned with your values. The conversation encourages listeners to see sales differently; showing that genuine, ethical selling creates stronger client relationships and a healthier view of success.

Melody doesn't know if she believes in God, But she know's she's going to hell for even thinking it. In this episode, she opens up about growing up in a strict evangelical world and how that upbringing planted both deep convictions and deep doubts. She and Curt explore the tension of searching for truth while still carrying the values ingrained from childhood.They also dig into how political events can shake long-held beliefs, creating moments of crisis that force a re examination of faith. Melody shares candid reflections on identity, doubt, and the weight of cultural expectations around belief.More than just a conversation about religion, this episode highlights the struggle of reconciling past and present, the role of community, and the shared human search for meaning in a world full of competing perspectives.

In this episode, Curt opens up to Melody Edwards in a candid discussion about his journey through faith, spirituality, and their profound impact on his entrepreneurial life. Curt opens up about his upbringing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, how it shaped his values and beliefs, and how his ongoing crisis of faith has led him to re-evaluate some of these principles. He shares anecdotes about the misconceptions surrounding his faith, while also addressing deeper, often uncomfortable truths about the doctrines he grew up with. As they delve into the nuances of faith and business, Curt highlights the importance of authenticity, integrity, and the courage to question established norms, emphasizing that true growth comes from embracing one's own journey. This thoughtful exchange invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the role they play in their personal and professional lives.Takeaways: Curt Kempton shares his journey of faith and how it influences his entrepreneurial values and decisions. Explore the intersection of personal beliefs and business ethics, emphasizing authenticity and integrity. Melody and Curt discuss the change in how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is perceived and its evolving policies over time. Curt explains the significance of family and community in shaping one's spiritual journey and how it impacts business dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of questioning beliefs and being open to new information for personal and professional growth. Curt reflects on the complexities of faith during his mission and how it shaped his understanding of spirituality and ethics.

In this episode, Curt Kempton and Melody Edwards tackle a phrase that strikes a nerve for many entrepreneurs: “It’s just business.” What does it really mean when people say this? Is it a harmless way to explain tough decisions, or just a convenient excuse to avoid responsibility for how business impacts real people?Curt and Melody dive into their personal experiences, sharing stories about layoffs, difficult choices, and the challenge of separating emotion from entrepreneurship. Along the way, they explore whether you can, or even should, detach your personal values from your business, and why the phrase “it’s just business” so often feels like a dismissal.Get ready for honest conversation, a few hard-won lessons, and a fresh look at how business decisions touch our lives. If you’ve ever wondered where to draw the line between what’s personal and what’s “just business,” this is the episode for you.

In this bonus clip, Curt and Melody dive into the heart of their podcast journey, sharing their motivation for creating a space where entrepreneurs can explore the deeper aspects of their lives and businesses. They emphasize the importance of understanding the internal drivers behind their entrepreneurial spirit, recognizing that these insights empower them to project their values into the world. Their discussions transcend typical business talk, delving into spirituality, ethics, and personal beliefs that shape their unique approaches. Both share a passion for meaningful conversations that challenge conventional business norms while fostering curiosity and vulnerability. As they embark on this podcasting adventure, they invite listeners to join them in exploring the intersection of purpose, integrity, and entrepreneurships

Welcome to the Soul Proprietor Podcast, Launching September 24th. Hosted by Curt Kempton and Melody Edwards.Episodes come out every Wednesday, wherever you listen to your podcasts.