You Are A CEO Podcast | with Michael E. Parker

Are you an entrepreneur who has made the leap from a corporate job to starting your own business? Making this transition can be both exciting and challenging. In this video, we explore the common struggles that entrepreneurs face after leaving their corporate jobs, from adapting to a new work environment to finding the right mindset for success. Whether you're considering making the switch or have already taken the plunge, this video is for you. Join us as we delve into the realities of entrepreneurship and provide insights to help you overcome the obstacles that come with it. If you're looking for support and guidance on your entrepreneurial journey, this video is a must-watch. Discover the key challenges that entrepreneurs face and learn how to navigate them to achieve your business goals.________________________________💹 Are you an entrepreneur or interested in getting started? Join my upcoming free masterclass, and get my step-by-step framework that has helped countless entrepreneurs. ▶ https://www.fromentrepreneurtoceo.com/ 🔥Get on the path to building a million dollar business. Download these TWO FREE GIFTS. ▶https://www.millionairebusinessbundle.com/________________________________😃 Get to know Michael E. Parker ▶ https://www.michaeleparker.com/Michael E. Parker's journey through hardships, opportunities, challenges and successes, is what fueled him to develop life-altering strategies and methodologies that can be applied to create and manage wealth opportunities through innovative, personalized and effective challenges, mentorship programs and memberships.

What does it take to become a CEO before anyone thinks you’re ready?In this episode of the You Are a CEO Podcast, Michael E. Parker sits down with Shawn Wilson, the youngest CEO of a credit union at just 25 years old—and an expert financial adviser who led a full turnaround of a failing institution into a thriving one.Michael and Shawn explore what leadership looks like when you’re learning in real time, adapting under pressure, and making decisions that affect thousands of people. From securities and wealth portfolio creation to execution, discipline, and growth, this episode is a masterclass in CEO thinking.Shawn breaks down how client expectations in finance have shifted, why the digital age disrupted traditional stockbrokers, and how modern financial planning now focuses on life outcomes—not just retirement numbers. He also explains behavioral finance and how limiting beliefs quietly shape financial decisions for individuals and institutions alike.If you’re an entrepreneur building credibility, a leader stepping into bigger responsibility, or someone serious about wealth and long-term freedom—this conversation will enlighten you.

Most people don’t fail financially because they’re irresponsible. They fail because no one ever taught them how money actually works. Michael E. Parker sits down with Zach Garcia, whose life took an unexpected tragedy that completely reshaped his relationship with money, wealth, and ownership. Zach shares how he once believed a modest 9–5 income was his ceiling—despite being surrounded by wealth he never thought was meant for him.Together, Michael and Zach explore why banks profit from financial ignorance, how the lending system really evaluates you, and what most people misunderstand about debt, leverage, and cash.You’ll also hear practical insights on commercial vs. personal banking, why many people are labeled “unloanable,” and how learning to make money work for you changes everything. Zach shares the mindset shift that helped him stop reacting to money—and start using it intentionally to build wealth.You don’t need a tragedy to wake up. You need education, mentorship, and a willingness to think differently. This conversation is for anyone who knows there’s more—but hasn’t been shown the path.

Why do some speakers captivate a room—while others share powerful experiences that somehow fall flat?In this episode of the You Are a CEO Podcast, Michael E. Parker interviews Cat Coley, a storytelling and public speaking coach who helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals unlock confidence, clarity, and connection through story ownership. This conversation goes beyond storytelling tips and dives into story ownership—the difference between simply recounting events and teaching from transformation. Cat explains why stories don’t move people unless the speaker has fully processed the lesson, shifted perspective, and chosen what the story means.Michael and Cat unpack how to speak from authenticity without oversharing, how to tell the same story from different angles depending on your audience, and why vulnerability is a choice—not a weakness. They also explore how frameworks emerge from lived experience, helping speakers create connection, confidence, and consistency on stage and in life.If you want to become a stronger speaker, develop executive presence, communicate with confidence, and use your story to inspire action—this conversation will change how you think about storytelling forever. How to Connect with Cat Coleycatcoley.com | IG handle @therealcatcoley

What if the reason you’re still afraid to speak up, step forward, or go after your goals isn’t a lack of talent—but a lack of identity? This is the uncomfortable work no one sees that makes you unstoppable.In this powerful episode of the You Are a CEO Podcast, Michael E. Parker sits down with former NFL athlete turned identity coach Anthony Trucks to unpack his concept of the Dark Work Experience—the unseen, uncomfortable work that builds confidence, skill, and certainty long before anyone applauds you.Dark work is the work no one applauds. It’s misunderstood. It’s uncomfortable. It's the uncomfortable work no one sees that makes you unstoppable And it’s exactly what separates people who talk about their goals from those who live them. Together, Michael and Anthony explore why success isn’t about consuming more content—but about who you become through consistent action. They break down the difference between dark moments and dark seasons, why people often stay stuck in the dark instead of using it to transform, and how falling in love with the work changes everything.If your goal is to become a stronger speaker, a more confident leader, or someone who finally follows through—this episode gives you the framework to do the work that makes success inevitable.How to Connect with Anthony Truckshttps://www.anthonytrucks.com/ | On IG @anthonytrucks

In this powerful episode, Michael E. Parker sits down with real estate investor and Vodyssey founder Shawn Moore, a leader who has helped over 3,000 people build wealth through short-term vacation rentals. Together, they unpack what it truly means to build a life you don’t want to take a vacation from—and why so many entrepreneurs never reach this kind of freedom.  This conversation breaks down the real reason people hesitate to jump into STRs or any wealth-building path—they’re worried about failing before they even begin. Shawn shares stories of clients who succeed simply because they go all-in, and others who hold back because fear keeps rewriting their story.Michael and Shawn explore how proximity changes everything, why wealth is a team sport, and how the rooms you’re in determine the standards you rise to. They unpack the power of intention, the danger of the wrong self-story, and why building wealth always begins with building you.If you’re tired of working to “vacate your life,” and you’re ready to build one you don’t need a vacation from, this episode is your wake-up call. ______________________________How to Connect with Shawn Moore:https://vodyssey.com/

Do you struggle with self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or feeling stuck in life? In this powerful episode of You Are A CEO, Michael E. Parker sits down with Barbara, an fitness expert and weight loss coach. With over two decades of experience helping people thrive in aerospace and corporate wellness, Barbara now focuses on one-on-one coaching that transforms lives and physiques from the inside out.In this episode, What Most People Get WRONG About Building Confidence, Barbara shares how confidence is not something you are born with—it’s a skill that requires intentional work, dedication, and the right guidance. She walks through the stories we tell ourselves that keep us from achieving our goals and offers practical strategies for women 40+ to improve nutrition, body composition, and self-love. Her 12-week program helps clients build lasting confidence, embrace their potential, and live fully without regret. Stop living in regret, unlock your potential, and truly feel your best in your skin, this episode is your blueprint. Learn actionable strategies to overcome doubt, build self-assurance, and finally achieve the results you want—both in life and in your body.How to Connect with Barbara KrisConnect on IG @officiabarbarakris

Most entrepreneurs believe that offering things for free will attract more people. But what if the opposite is true? In this powerful podcast, Michael E. Parker is joined by expert virtual event strategist Zach Hesterberg to reveal why the “free event" model is quietly destroying your business.Zach explains that while free content is valuable on platforms like YouTube, podcasts, and social media, free funnels, free challenges, and free registrations often create low commitment, low engagement, and extremely low conversions. The data is undeniable: people value what they pay for—and ignore what they don’t.Michael and Zach explore why the marketplace has lost trust in free offers, how entrepreneurs unintentionally weaken their positioning, and why charging—even a small amount—creates a deeper psychological shift that results in higher show-up rates, more serious prospects, and stronger sales outcomes.You’ll learn why The Truth About FREE Lead Generation Revealed impacts how to get buyers emotionally invested, and how to create a buying environment instead of a passive learning environment that never converts. Zach reveals why free is costing you everything, and his method for helping entrepreneurs increase revenue with less stress, less time, and fewer no-shows by leveraging messaging clarity, paid entry, and his 5 Core Beliefs framework.If you’ve been frustrated by low webinar attendance, weak conversions, or “freebie seekers” who never buy—this episode gives you the mindset and methodology to attract committed buyers who are ready to take action. Book a Call to Connect with Zach Hesterbergwww.paidevents.com Follow him on IG @ Zach Hesterberg

Expert Dietitian Drops Truth About Health You Have Never Heard! This is not another “eat better, try harder” talk. This is about understanding the root causes that traditional healthcare often overlooks—imbalanced systems, overwhelmed biology, nervous system stress, and years of misinformation. You’ll discover why your symptoms are not random. They’re signals. And once you learn to decode them, everything changes.We break down how infobesity (information overload) creates anxiety and paralysis, how misdiagnosis happens even with “healthy” lab results, and why the right information can restore hope when you feel like you’ve tried everything.You’ll learn why it’s not about eating less—it’s about giving your body the resources it needs to function. Why trauma and stress rewrite your biology. Why you need a squad. And why a true health awakening begins with one decision: choosing yourself. How to Connect with Ashley Koff, RD:Connect on IG @AshleyKoffapproved or click here: https://www.instagram.com/ashleykoffapproved?igsh=MTc4MmM1YmI2Ng==

What happens when hundreds of entrepreneurs, professionals, and CEOs-in-the-making gather for three days with one mission — to transform their life, their business, and their future?The Ultimate Freedom Live 2025 delivered breakthroughs no one expected. And in this special recap, Michael E. Parker breaks down the biggest insights, the most powerful transformations, and the life-changing moments that shaped this year’s event. You’ll hear what attendees experienced, how their mindset shifted, and what strategies are already changing their businesses from the inside out.If you attended but didn’t upgrade for the replay — or if you missed the event entirely — this episode is your chance to get back into the room and experience the wisdom, the coaching, and the clarity that entrepreneurs are calling the reset they didn’t know they needed.👉 Join the Replay Interest List Herehttps://www.theultimatefreedomlive.com/replay-waitlistAccess the same tools, frameworks, and CEO-level breakthroughs that moved people from overwhelmed to unstoppable.

In this eye-opening episode of You Are A CEO, Michael E. Parker sits down with expert fitness trainer David Hesterley to expose some of the biggest myths about health, fitness, and longevity—myths that have quietly shaped how we age, how we move, and how we show up in life.From childhood, movement is natural—we run, climb, explore, and live actively without ever calling it “exercise.” But as adults, lifestyle, culture, stress, and technology slowly condition us into sedentary living. Comfort rises. Movement declines. And over time, strength, mobility, energy, and overall life quality begin to suffer.David breaks down why being “fit to live” is more than lifting weights or grinding in the gym. It’s about sustaining daily movement, protecting your muscle mass, avoiding preventable injuries, and understanding how your body’s energy systems (ATP, glycolytic, aerobic) actually work. You’ll learn the truth behind common myths like muscle confusion, no pain no gain, and why overtraining destroys performance instead of enhancing it.He also reveals how trauma, sports, and personal transitions shaped his approach to training—and why movement, rest, nutrition, and biblical dietary patterns are essential for long-term health and independence as we age.If you want to live longer and better—not just have longevity but true quality of life—this episode is your starting point.Watch now and learn how to stay strong, mobile, energized, and truly fit to live. How to Connect with David Hesterleyhttps://www.phdhealthcoaching.com

What does it really take for Generation Z to rise above expectations and lead with excellence—even when you’re the youngest in the room? In this thought-provoking conversation, Michael E. Parker sits down with Robert Grimess III, a rising young professional, to explore how Gen Z can break barriers, overcome imposter syndrome, and redefine success in today’s fast-paced world. They unpack lessons about purpose, consistency, mentorship, and growth, while exploring how early influences—from family to music—shaped Robert’s mindset for high achievement. If you’ve ever felt overlooked because of your age or experience, this episode will show you how to turn that doubt into drive, and how to build a foundation for success that lasts.Watch until the end to hear the 8 key things every Gen Z professional can start doing today to accelerate their journey toward excellence.

What happens when you face a health emergency… and have no idea what to do? In this eye-opening conversation, Michael E. Parker sits down with LaShunda Wells — a Registered ER Nurse with 17 years of experience — to talk about how everyday people can take their power back in the healthcare system.She reveals what really happens behind the scenes in emergency rooms, why so many patients don’t get the care they deserve, and how to advocate for your life when it matters most. LaShunda’s has a story that will inspire you — from dropping out of high school to becoming a nurse, overcoming hardships, and now dedicating her life to helping people advocate for themselves in moments that matter most.If you’ve ever felt lost or frustrated navigating doctors, tests, or hospitals… this is your blueprint. Learn the practical tips you need to ask the right questions, push past red tape, and get the testing and care you and your loved ones desperately need. How to Connect with LaShunda Wellswww.PHDHealthCoaching.com

What if the very thing you love doing… ends up stealing your freedom? Too many entrepreneurs and barbers get caught in the freedom trap — working harder, longer, and still not getting ahead. This episode will show you how to change that.I sat down with Bradford Kelly, “The Business Minded Barber,” and Founder of Another Level of Barbering, to unpack how he escaped trading hours for dollars. Bradford shares how he broke out of the “time for money trap” that so many barbers, stylists, and service providers fall into. He opens up about the personal battles he faced— and how he discovered the mindset, strategy, and systems that allowed him to make 6 figures in 4 days a week while creating real life freedom.If you’re an entrepreneur, stylist, or service-based business owner who feels stuck trading hours for income… this conversation could shift everything. Join his FREE Masterclass ▶ https://www.Barbers4Freedom.comConnect with The Business Minded Barber, Bradford KelleyIG handle: @thebusinessmindedbarber

She survived three brain surgeries, grew up in difficult environments, and transformed her life. In this powerful episode From GED to PHD Despite 3 Brain Surgeries, I sit down with Dr. Camille Salter to uncover how adversity shaped her into a leader and how you can use your pain as your edge.We uncover how your environment can shape who you believe you are—and how breaking free begins the moment you choose to think differently. Dr. Camille opens up about turning pain into purpose, showing that even the hardest chapters can become the foundation for your strength. She reminds us that disruption often follows intention, but that’s where transformation begins. From shattering glass ceilings to mentoring the next generation of leaders, she’s proof that your past doesn’t define you—it refines you.Dr. Camille defied common expectations, broke through glass ceilings, and realigned her past narrative into a story of purpose. This conversation isn’t just inspirational—it’s tactical. Entrepreneurs, leaders, and dreamers will gain insight into resilience, intention, leadership born from pressure, and how to let your present reframe your past.Watch now and see how you can become “unbreakable.”How to Connect with Dr. Camille Salter▶ www.empowermentpathwayconsulting.com

What does it really take to fight for people’s rights, navigate workplace culture, and climb from human resources into law?In this episode, What If Your Words Are The KEY to Freedom?, Michael E. Parker sits down with Alexandria Houston, Managing Partner at The Lighthouse Legal Group, to uncover lessons from her 17+ years in HR and her move into law.They discuss the realities of corporate culture, diversity, and civil rights law—plus the policies every professional should know to avoid being silenced or mistreated. Alexandria reveals practical tips like how to protect yourself with documentation, understand your rights, and know when to seek legal advocacy.But this conversation isn’t just about law—it’s about business. Alexandria and Michael explore how entrepreneurs can apply the legal mindset: framing value the right way, positioning strategically, and turning knowledge into action. Whether you’re scaling a company, protecting your employees, or pursuing financial freedom, this episode will give you the tools to think smarter, act faster, and advocate for yourself and others.Don’t miss this powerful episode that bridges the gap between law, entrepreneurship, and leadership.How to Connect with Alexandria Houston:Connect on IG: @thelegalady

Cyber attacks are no longer random crimes—they’re a business model. And hackers don’t care who you are—they care how vulnerable you are. In this episode, I sat down with cyber security expert Marquis Carroll to break down the reality of today’s cyber threats—from ransomware being sold on the dark web, to zero day attacks and one-click exploits worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.If you’ve ever wondered what cyber security is and why it matters for your business and personal life, this episode, Top Cyber Security Expert Reveals How to Avoid New Threats, will wake you up to the business of hacking. Hackers don’t care who you are—they care how vulnerable you are. Whether it’s your phone, your bank account, or your business data, the threat is real.If you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or just someone who values their privacy, this conversation could save you thousands—and keep you one step ahead of the hackers. Stay informed on how artificial intelligence and new tech are making attacks faster and harder to detect. And discover why IT security is not optional—it’s survival. Watch until the end for practical insights that can help you safeguard your information. How to Connect with Marquis CarrollCEO | MSC Security(855) 202-0254 | [email protected] | mscsecurity.io

What does it take to be a successful entrepreneur today? Because the truth is, lack of capital destroys most businesses. Whether a startup or a seasoned business owner here are business tips that can help you scale in today's market. In this episode, Michael E. Parker, sits down with Venture Capitalist Cory Haynes, CEO of Vanta Venture to discuss how to make your business fundable so that you can raise capital. Understanding MRR, TAM, SAM, and SOM, speaking the language of investors, and building recurring revenue models that attract capital. We also explore the AI hype cycle—and why massive companies are slowing down AI adoption. And why only 10% of their artificial intelligence projects are delivering promised results, and what this means for entrepreneurs chasing technology trends isn’t delivering at the rate promised, and it’s forcing entrepreneurs to rethink scale, speed, and real value creation.If you want to know when to utilize venture capital, when to walk away, and how to position yourself for long-term success, this conversation is for you.Connect with Cory HaynesGeneral Partner, Vanta Venturehttps://www.vantaventure.com/

What does it really take to succeed as a hairstylist today? In this powerful podcast episode, Legendary Hair Stylist Discusses the Old and New School, the Bay Area Pixie Queen, India Johnson, breaks down her journey, wisdom, and insider secrets that every stylist—whether just starting out or a seasoned pro—needs to hear.From building confidence behind the chair to understanding why “starting a business starts with your willingness to learn”, this episode dives deep into what it really takes to thrive in today’s beauty industry. You’ll discover how to increase your speed as a stylist, how to handle anxiety vs anticipation, and the exact mindset shifts that can help you get unstuck and grow both your career and your revenue.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck in a rut, or unsure how to stand out in a competitive market, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration to take your craft to the next level.How to Connect with India Johnson, Bay Area Pixie Queenhttp://YourPixiePlace.com

Success in entrepreneurship isn’t just about working harder — it’s about mastering the inside game and building the right sales strategy to create lasting business growth. In this podcast episode, Michael E. Parker sits down with sales expert Craig Cooper to uncover why, The Reason Why Most Businesses Never Make Money, and eventually fail.Michael and Craig reveal why commitment is the turning point for entrepreneurs, how common sense revenue strategies can make you memorable, and why most small business owners confuse activity with results. You’ll walk away understanding how to shift from chasing money to building real freedom and wealth.If you’re ready to think bigger, lead differently, and sell smarter, this conversation will challenge the way you do business.How to Connect with Craig Cooper:[email protected]

As AI accelerates faster than ever, 2 out of 3 jobs could soon be automated. In this powerful episode, How to Survive the Automated Workforce, Michael E. Parker sits down with Jahleel Stewart, a global HR and talent expert with 30+ years of experience building world-class teams, to talk about the real impact of automation on your career, your future, and your freedom.From LinkedIn revolutionizing recruitment to the rise of generative AI, this episode breaks down what’s changing—and what you can do to stay ahead. Is your job at risk? What skills will help you thrive, not just survive?Discover how upskilling, adapting, and taking ownership of your future will separate the obsolete from the unstoppable. Don't wait for a pink slip—learn how to direct the technology and design your destiny. Watch now and future-proof your career!

What separates those who build real wealth from those who stay stuck? In this powerful episode, POVERTY vs WEALTH: EXPERT Reveals The Surprising Truth About Creating Wealth, Michael E. Parker sits down with wealth strategist Gina Wright—a real estate veteran with 38 years of experience, 110+ doors under management, and $500K+ in income—all while legally paying no state taxes and only $230 in federal taxes. 🤯This isn't a flex—it’s a blueprint. Gina drops real gems about how the wealthy actually think, and why most people are unknowingly programmed to hit a mental ceiling when it comes to money. This episode digs deep into generational wealth, mindset conditioning, and practical steps you can take now to break free from survival mode and step into long-term financial independence. And how you can get started thinking like the wealthy.The wealthy think differently. They build systems, play the tax game legally, and create generational wealth while the rest of us grind. If you’re tired of just working for money and want to build wealth that lasts—this conversation will shift your perspective forever.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a buzzword — it’s the billion-dollar battleground for the future of work. Michael is joined by his Chief Technology Officer, Marcus Smith, who has spent over 150,000 hours implementing workplace technology. In this episode, Why AI Is Changing Everything We Know About Work, Michael E. Parker tackles one of the most pressing questions for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high-level decision-makers: Can an AI-trained workforce truly save time and generate billions... or will it quietly dismantle everything we’ve built? With reports showing a $533 billion opportunity on the table, Michael dives into the real strategies that could help companies train their workforce with AI, streamline operations, and create high-profit, high-efficiency business models. But there’s a flip side: are the risks of replacing too much? What happens when automation goes unchecked? If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or corporate leader wondering how to leverage AI without losing your human edge, this episode is a must-watch.

Explore how entrepreneurial challenges can be transformed into significant opportunities for growth just by having a problem. Discover the methods to qualify, solve, and leverage your business problems to achieve unparalleled success with proven strategies.

This should make us all stop and think more deeply.

You are a C.E.O. Meaning we can actually choose to do something other than what we are feeling. That is power.

Standards begin when you start thinking about how things can be done if someone else had to do the work. As entrepreneurs this can be difficult to do. However, if you don't start thinking about this then you won't be able to scale your business for ultimate growth.