Driven: Unscripted Success

What happens when your "dream career" meets a "call out of left field"? In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino sits down with Tim Hanold, Partner at Serenity First Hospice and Executive Chairman for Beach House Center for Recovery. Tim shares his fascinating journey from a Pennsylvanian "country bumpkin" upbringing to 20 years in the heart of New York City healthcare and medical sales. In this episode, you’ll learn: The "Jerry Maguire" Pivot: Why Tim walked away from sports management to find a deeper purpose in elder care. Your Ego is Not Your Amigo: How humility and being "the bottleneck" can make or break your leadership. The 4.9 Star Standard: How Tim’s team maintains world-class satisfaction ratings in the hospice space. Stomping Out Fires: Tim recounts a massive cyber-incident "gut check" and how his team persevered. Work-Life Seasons: Why Tim believes "balance" is a myth and how to "count the cost" of your career choices. Passive Income via Real Estate: How a hobby became a family business that offsets the "hard-charging" professional life.   #TimHanold #MichaelMannino #DrivenUnscripted #Leadership #HospiceCare #SuccessMindset #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateInvesting #HealthcareManagement

"Where did Johnny get into college?" For many parents, the answer feels like a final exam on their child-rearing. In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino welcomes Margaret Rothe, a Silicon Valley-based expert in educational software and college readiness. Margaret is the force behind Council More, a premier B2B platform that gives college counselors and families the data they need to navigate the admissions "buffet." In this episode, we discuss: The Incubator of Self: Why college isn't about an "occupation," but about acquiring a transferable skill set. The Silicon Valley "Missed It" Factor: Why even high-earning tech pros often return to school later in life. The "Neighbor Sniff Test": How to decouple your self-worth as a parent from your child’s acceptance letters. The "I Can't" Philosophy: Michael and Margaret discuss the mental discipline of martial arts and how to apply it to academic perseverance. Entrepreneurial Parenting: How to stop the "Wait" cycle and better engage with your kids' futures.  

"Whether you say you can or you cannot, you’re right." But what drives that belief? In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, host Michael Mannino interviews Jay Schneider, a world-class public speaker, psychologist, and identity coach. Jay shares her incredible journey from leaving home at age 14 in Brazil to help her family survive, to building a massive career, and eventually pivoting her entire life to go "Global." Jay explains the neuroscience and quantum physics behind our "Identity Structure"—the invisible framework that dictates how we think, lead, and act under pressure. Key Moments in This Episode: Identity vs. Mindset: Why focusing on mindset is only scratching the surface. The Global Leap: Why Jay changed her business to English and how she overcame the insecurity of starting over. Defining Fear: The difference between biological survival and mind-created illusions. Passive Income & Survival: Why you can't build wealth while your brain is in "fight or flight." LIVE EXERCISE (18:00): A 2-minute "Future Self" visualization to get instant clarity on your next business move. #JaySchneider #MichaelMannino #DrivenUnscripted #IdentityHacking #Neuroscience #FutureSelf #EntrepreneurMindset #PublicSpeaking #BrazilToUSA

What is the secret to getting the best out of your team? According to Matt Linder, COO of First Children's Services, it isn’t about "telling the plant to grow"—it’s about changing the soil. In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, host Nareman Hamdan sits down with Matt Linder to explore his unique path from a behavior analyst to a high-level executive. Matt shares how he uses behavioral science to manage large teams, the risks he took to build his own consulting firm, and how he uses "Next Time Feedback" to foster a culture of growth. Inside the Episode: The Plant Metaphor: Why the environment dictates success, not the individual. The Big Risk: Resigning from a $50M company to start from zero. The Sales Misstep: A humbling story about networking assumptions. Non-Binary Decisions: Moving past "Yes/No" to find innovative solutions. Discretionary Effort: The #1 trait Matt looks for when building his dream team. Matt’s approach to leadership is both clinical and compassionate, offering a blueprint for anyone looking to increase their impact and lead with authenticity.   #MattLinder #NaremanHamdan #DrivenPodcast #BehaviorAnalysis #LeadershipTips #COOInsights #EducationInnovation #SuccessMindset  

70% of the Earth is covered in water, yet most drones die the second they touch it. In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino sits down with Alex Rodriguez, the founder of XPC (X-Piece Drones), to talk about the engineering feat of creating a truly waterproof drone. Alex shares his "all-in" entrepreneurial journey—from building drones underground in 2011 to moving to Shenzhen, China in 2023 to develop the next generation of flight technology. We dive deep into the world of Drone Fishing, why Alex is bringing manufacturing back to the U.S., and how waterproof drones are set to become standard equipment at every lifeguard station in the country. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Secret of IP67: How XPC equalizes internal and external pressure so drones can breathe without letting water in. Drone Fishing 101: How to cast a line 1,500 feet offshore to catch sharks and tarpon. The Shenzhen Advantage: Why Alex moved to the "Electronics Capital of the World" to speed up R&D by 3x. Saving Lives: How a $2,000 waterproof drone can outperform a $25,000 industrial drone in lifeguard rescue missions. No Excuses: Alex’s take on using AI, YouTube, and Audible to learn anything without a "factory-model" education. #AlexRodriguez #XPCDrones #WaterproofDrones #DroneFishing #Entrepreneurship #DrivenPodcast #ShenzhenTech #Innovation #LifeguardRescue

Public speaking is the #1 fear in the world—even higher than the fear of death! But what if the secret to mastering the stage wasn't "learning lines," but simply having a better conversation? In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino sits down with Steve Sapato, the "Most Famous Unfamous Speaker in America." At 77 years young, Steve brings the wisdom of 38 full-time jobs (including riverboat gambling!) and decades of corporate coaching to help you unlock your confidence. Steve breaks down his revolutionary "Storytizing" method—a way to blend your message with the audience’s own memories and emotions so they never get bored. In this episode, you’ll learn: The 3-Second Rule: Why you are judged instantly and how to win a room in the first 7 seconds. Storytizing vs. Storytelling: The "blender" method to make boring topics (like real estate appraisal!) fascinating. Shut Up and Succeed: How to quiet the inner voice that says "I’m not good enough." The QL Method: Why the best sales professionals ask questions and listen instead of talking. Mind Over Matter: Why Steve plans to run a 50-yard dash at age 100. If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell to stay driven! 🏎️💨 #SteveSapato #PublicSpeakingTips #Storytizing #DrivenPodcast #OvercomingFear #SalesMastery #CommunicationSkills #MichaelMannino #Entrepreneurship #SuccessMindset

In this episode of Driven Unscripted Success, host Michael Mannino welcomes back Steven Zalunardo, a powerhouse in the Southwest Florida real estate and development scene. Originally from Toronto, Steve explains why he moved his family and business to the Naples area and how he has scaled his operations into four distinct "pillars." Key Topics Covered: The "Container" Strategy: How to structure multiple corporations (Brokerage, Property Management, Development) to limit liability. Wealth Migration Statistics: Why 40% of Canada’s top 1% are moving to the United States. The American Advantage: A comparison of taxes, healthcare, and education between the US and Canada. Investing in Florida: The future of REITs and gathering capital from the Northeast and Canada. Real Estate Myths: The truth about flood insurance, property taxes, and the "Rain Tax." Subscribe to Driven Unscripted Success for more interviews with top professionals! #StevenZalunardo #NaplesFlorida #RealEstateDevelopment #CanadaToUS #AssetProtection

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino interviews Adam Povlitz, CEO of Anago Cleaning Systems. From his humble beginnings cleaning floors at night to leading an international franchise system, Adam shares the "dirty work" required to truly clean up in the business world. In this episode, you’ll learn: The CEO Clean Up: Why you must unlearn control-freak habits to scale. The Three-Tier Advantage: How Anago’s unique structure creates explosive growth for franchisees. AI & Robotics: The honest truth about when (and if) robots will take over the cleaning industry. Management Blueprints: How Adam uses a hybrid of EOS and OKRs to keep his C-suite aligned. About Adam Povlitz: Adam is the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems. Under his leadership, Anago has become one of the fastest-growing franchises in the world, consistently ranking at the top of the Entrepreneur Franchise 500. Subscribe for more unscripted success stories!  #AdamPovlitz #AnagoCleaning #CleanUp #BusinessLeadership #Franchising #DrivenPodcast

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Nareman Hamdan sits down with Russell Gray—a financial educator, investor, and media entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. After losing everything during the 2008 Financial Crisis, Russell rebuilt with a new strategy focused on resilience, real assets, and Main Street opportunities. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why Main Street investing is on the rise How to manage risk and build resilient portfolios The importance of thinking before acting Leadership strategies for scaling impact Why curiosity is a superpower in business The future of media, content, and capital raising Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or looking to grow your financial knowledge—this episode is packed with actionable insights.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino interviews Warren Mainard, Executive Director of Impact Players. Warren shares his 30-year journey of ministry and leadership, discussing how men can overcome isolation and become the "thermostats" of their homes. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Chiseled Concept: How to view trials as a sculptor’s tool rather than just "bad luck." Winning at Home: Practical steps to ensure your family isn't getting "dragged" behind your career success. The Eulogy Exercise: A powerful mental framework to help you discover your "One Thing." Impact Players: How Warren is scaling a men’s ministry nationwide using a "Band of Brothers" model. About Warren Mainard: Warren is a leader, speaker, and the Executive Director of Impact Players. His mission is to inspire and equip men to be great husbands, fathers, and leaders through community and spiritual growth. Subscribe for more stories of unscripted success!  #WarrenMainard #ImpactPlayers #Chiseled #MensLeadership #DrivenPodcast #Success

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Nareman Hamdan sits down with Sergio Fernandez, a global trade and customs expert with over 15 years of experience managing compliance, risk, and cross-border operations across more than 30 countries. Currently working on logistics for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Sergio shares insights into the complexities of global trade—and the mindset required to succeed in high-pressure international environments. In this episode, you’ll learn: How global customs and compliance really work • The importance of clarity in career growth • Why taking risks accelerates success • Leadership strategies for managing international teams • How resilience plays a key role in long-term success Whether you're in business, logistics, or looking to grow your career, this episode delivers valuable real-world insights.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Nareman Hamdan sits down with Mike Stohler, a seasoned real estate investor with over 20 years of experience and a portfolio of more than 1,500 units. From multifamily to hotels and now international investments, Mike shares how he identifies opportunities across markets—and why he’s currently focused on Europe. You’ll learn: Why he transitioned from multifamily to hospitality • The opportunity in boutique hotels and European assets • How diversification strengthens your investment strategy • Insights into alternative investments like oil, gas, and timberland • The importance of discipline, systems, and long-term thinking Whether you’re an active investor or looking for passive opportunities, this episode offers valuable insights into building a diversified, global portfolio.

In this episode of the Driven: Unscripted Success Podcast, we sit down with Jack Hoss, founder of Real Deal Crew, to explore how AI is transforming real estate operations. Jack shares how most investors and agents don’t have a lead problem—they have a systems problem—and how AI can help automate follow-ups, improve deal flow, and free up time to focus on closing. We also dive into the rise of AI agents, the importance of consistency, and what the future of real estate looks like in a data-driven world. In this episode, we cover: • How AI is streamlining real estate operations • Why systems matter more than hustle • The power of automation in deal flow • What’s next for AI in business   #RealEstate #AI #Automation #DealFlow #Entrepreneurship #DrivenPodcast 🚀

In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Glogowski of Note Advisors, an independent wealth management firm serving business owners and professionals nationwide. With over 20 years of experience, Shawn shares insights on: Independent advisory models Behavioral finance  Real estate tax advantages Retirement planning with purpose The concept of Eudemonia — human flourishing This episode blends technical strategy with life philosophy — because wealth without purpose isn’t real freedom. If you’re building wealth, planning retirement, or thinking generationally, this conversation is packed with value. Subscribe for more conversations on business, investing, and personal growth.   #WealthManagement #RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom #PassiveIncome #DrivenUnscriptedSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #TaxPlanning

In this episode, we sit down with Logan Harris from Spotter Global to explore the rapidly evolving world of drone detection and airspace security. Drones over 250 grams are now required by the FAA to broadcast Remote ID — essentially a “license plate” for drones. But what does that mean for pilots, property owners, and security professionals? We discuss: • How Remote ID works • How drone operators can be identified • FAA fines and enforcement • Drone jamming technology • Fiber-optic drones that can’t be electronically jammed • Protecting critical infrastructure and public events This episode dives into the intersection of technology, regulation, and national security — and what it means for the future. Connect with Logan Harris: 🌐 https://spotterglobal.com Subscribe for more interviews with leaders and innovators.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino sits down with Kate Zolock, founder of Dnipro Biz Accounting, LLC, to break down real-world tax strategy for business owners and real estate investors. Kate explains why bookkeeping is more important than tax preparation and how the right financial foundation creates powerful tax opportunities. In this episode, we cover: • LLC vs. S Corp vs. C Corp explained • Why bookkeeping drives tax savings • Real estate depreciation strategies • Bonus depreciation • IRS letters and compliance • The role of discipline in business success If you’re an entrepreneur or investor looking to improve your tax efficiency, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Subscribe for more conversations with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. #TaxStrategy #CPA #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DrivenPodcast

Today, we talk with Oscar Hedaya, serial entrepreneur and founder of SafeSpace, the most advanced smart safe on the market. From a family burglary to breakthrough innovation, Oscar shares the story of how necessity became the mother of invention. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Oscar came up with the idea for SafeSpace • The importance of first-to-market and product quality • Challenges of merging hardware and software in a startup • Manufacturing and outsourcing insights • Upcoming products and the “Space Mirage” safe Connect with Oscar Hedaya: 📧 [email protected] Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more stories from top entrepreneurs.

In this episode of Driven: The Unscripted Success Podcast, hosts Mike Mannino and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Mike Karp, co-founder of Zoozah, to discuss disrupting the home services industry through technology. With a background in FinTech and enterprise software, Mike shares how he’s combining licensed home inspections, concierge services, and proprietary tech to build a scalable, SaaS-enabled property management model. Topics Covered: From enterprise software to startup founder Why curiosity drives long-term success Leading from the middle Hiring for integrity + intelligence Fail fast and iterate quickly The future of AI and IoT in smart homes Turning traditional services into scalable tech If you’re an entrepreneur, operator, or tech enthusiast — this episode is packed with insight.

On this episode of Driven: The Unscripted Success Podcast, hosts Mike Manino and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Maribeth Martorana, co-founder and CEO of Sapient Advisors. With over 20 years in tech, financial services, and AI, Maribeth shares her journey, leadership lessons, and insights on building empowered teams and passive income. Topics Covered: Maribeth’s career journey and lessons learned Navigating career challenges and setbacks Leadership: delegation, empowerment, and curiosity Implementing AI strategies for mid-market companies Passive income and digital products Daily routines for productivity and learning 📌 Connect with Maribeth Martorana: LinkedIn: Maribeth Martorana Email: [email protected] 🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review!

In this episode, Michael sits down with franchise expert Tom DuFore, a 22-year veteran in the franchising world who has helped over 600 companies expand and advised more than 10,000 business owners. If you’ve ever wondered: Is my business ready to franchise? How do I scale without losing control? What’s stopping me from growing? This episode breaks it down. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ The 3 signs your business could be franchise-ready ✔️ The “Triple Win” model for sustainable growth ✔️ How vendor relationships can create added revenue ✔️ Why fear and self-doubt stop entrepreneurs ✔️ The powerful “Lion in the Wild vs. Lion in the Cage” mindset shift 🌐 Connect with Tom: Website: https://bigskyfranchise.com Free consultation, webinars, quizzes, and franchise resources available on his site. 🎙️ About the Show Driven: The Unscripted Success Podcast brings you real stories and insights on achieving personal, professional, and financial success. Want to be a guest? Apply here: drivensuccesspodcast.com/guest 👍 Like 💬 Comment your biggest takeaway 🔔 Subscribe for more unscripted success conversations #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Scaling #PassiveIncome #Leadership

In this powerful and insightful episode, Mike sits down with Daniel Strohli—a systems strategist, business builder, and lifelong learner who’s on a mission to optimize and scale businesses through simplicity and clarity. From flipping plastic trinkets in grade school to managing properties and transforming warehouses into retail goldmines, Daniel shares his early entrepreneurial journey and how genuine curiosity became his greatest asset. He opens up about learning directly from seasoned mentors, extracting business insights from every corner—whether it’s a jewelry shop or cupcake startup—and how those lessons became the foundation of his company, ProfitsX. Daniel walks us through his framework for streamlining systems and creating repeatable, scalable processes that actually grow companies—plus, how trust, goodwill, and doing more than expected will always set you apart in business.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, host Mike Mannino chats with Sara Quintero, founder of Karma Chic Marketplace, a unique multi-vendor e-commerce platform dedicated to empowering independent businesses, artisans, and service professionals. Sara shares the personal journey that led her from owning a high-end consignment boutique in South Tampa to launching her own online marketplace. What started as a passion for supporting small makers turned into a scalable, tech-driven mission to connect vendors with customers who care about community and authenticity. Learn how Sara overcame imposter syndrome, pivoted after a failed brick-and-mortar experience, and embraced tech and startup culture to build a national—and soon global—platform. Whether you're an aspiring founder or a small business enthusiast, Sara’s story is packed with valuable insights about resilience, networking, and doing business with heart.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

Can your genes predict how you’ll react to medications? This week, Dr. Melissa Smith joins the show to share how she's redefining pharmacy through precision medicine and genetic testing. From retail pharmacy burnout to launching her own consulting practice, Melissa opens up about her pivot from traditional pharmacy into the world of pharmacogenomics (PGX). She dives into why the current “one-size-fits-all” medical model falls short — especially in mental health and pain management — and how understanding your unique genetic makeup can help doctors prescribe smarter, safer medications. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, parent, or someone who’s been frustrated with medications that never seem to work, this conversation is for you.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

Alexander Koster is a driving force behind strategic innovation at Nemours Children’s Health, one of the largest pediatric systems in the U.S. In this insightful and grounded conversation, he shares how his upbringing shaped his mission-driven career, how setbacks like the dot-com crash taught him the power of relationships, and why clarity around success is key to driving results. Alexander talks about his approach to team leadership, encouraging outside-the-box thinking, and making data work for people—not the other way around. From managing advanced care delivery at home to fishing in the Florida intercoastal, Alexander reminds us that strategy and humanity must go hand-in-hand. Whether you're in healthcare, tech, or leadership, this episode delivers authentic insight into what it means to lead with purpose.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What really happens behind the scenes when business partnerships fall apart? How do you protect yourself before a contract dispute ever starts? In this episode, attorney Yasir Billoo joins the Driven Podcast to dive deep into what smart business owners need to know about legal risks, contracts, business “divorces,” and how mindset shapes success. As the Managing Partner at International Law Partners LLP, Yasir brings over 20 years of litigation and transactional experience. He opens up about why he left a successful firm to start his own, how he builds trust with clients, and the leadership lessons he’s still learning today. Plus, we explore how AI is impacting the legal world—and what happens when lawyers rely on it too much. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or just someone navigating high-stakes decisions, this episode is packed with insights on risk, growth, and being smarter in business.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this compelling episode, Dr. Gesenia Sloan-Peña takes us inside the world of forensic neuropsychology. As a bilingual clinical and forensic neuropsychologist, she breaks down what her work looks like—evaluating everyone from infants with birth injuries to elderly adults with dementia, and testifying in civil litigation cases like medical malpractice and personal injury. Dr. Sloan-Peña discusses her unique journey into the niche field of neuropsychology, the pivotal mentors who shaped her path, and why her Spanish-speaking background plays a critical role in serving an underserved population. She also talks about pivoting into academia, mentoring future neuropsychologists, and leading a growing team at NOVA Southeastern University while still managing her thriving private practice. The conversation explores her leadership style, her approach to risk-taking, balancing family and business, using time-blocking to get it all done, and her candid views on AI’s evolving role in psychological assessments. We also dive into her passion for creating opportunities for the next generation of Spanish-speaking professionals and her innovative work in NICU follow-up clinics for infant survivors.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this fascinating conversation, Stefano Gulbalis shares how his mission to humanize technology led him to launch Nebulai—a digital transformation company combining AI, blockchain, and smart contracts to build a better future. With roots in education, real estate, and enterprise innovation, Stefano brings a visionary perspective on the intersection of emerging tech, purpose, and leadership. What we covered: How Stefano’s early work at Miami Dade College laid the groundwork for his entrepreneurial path The “ikigai” approach to career and innovation What WebAI marketplaces are, and how smart contracts empower global talent Why blockchain is critical for trustworthy AI Thoughts on the risks, ethics, and existential challenges of AI How Miami is becoming the next major hub for AI development Stefano’s personal journey as a cancer survivor and his vision to build AI agents for healthcare support Insights on leadership, passion, learning, and building diverse, innovative teams -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when a former Amazon exec takes a leap into the dental world? In this episode, Daniel Jimenez shares how he's transforming dentistry through cutting-edge tech, high-performance leadership, and a bold, patient-first approach. 💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Daniel left a lucrative career at Amazon to co-found Stride Dental Group How he’s using AI and automation to eliminate admin burden and elevate the patient experience What sets Stride’s model apart: insurance expertise, same-day appointments, and ultra-clear protocols Why he believes attitude beats experience when building a team How Daniel leads with tough love, data, and a no-fluff culture of accountability Insights on passive income, learning strategies, and building a dental startup that’s profitable in just 4 months   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What does it take to build an unforgettable brand presence at a convention or trade show? In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Mike and Nareman sit down with Scott Maheu, COO of Exhibit Experience, to explore the creativity, logistics, and leadership that go into building world-class exhibit booths. Why Should You Listen? Scott shares how his unique blend of military discipline, Amazon operational excellence, and creative marketing makes him a powerhouse in the event space. You’ll learn how his servant leadership style is helping transform company culture and how ownership, problem-solving, and organization drive results in a competitive industry. What We Covered: How Exhibit Experience turns ideas into engaging booths for trade shows and sporting events Scott’s leadership evolution from the Air Force and Amazon to his current role Why servant leadership and one-on-one development are key to building strong teams How encouraging ownership and solutions-first thinking empowers employees The importance of organization, removing barriers, and creating standard work What sets Exhibit Experience apart in a crowded event marketing space Scott’s take on tangible ROI, facial recognition tech, and where the industry is heading   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Dr. Paola Ballester, a board-certified pediatrician and co-founder of EasyPA. With over a decade of clinical leadership experience and a strong background in healthcare operations, Dr. Ballester is on a mission to solve one of the biggest frustrations in modern healthcare: prior authorizations. Dr. Ballester explains how EasyPA is transforming the archaic prior auth and appeals process using AI and automation. She dives into the burnout physicians face when dealing with insurance companies, the hidden inefficiencies that delay care for patients, and how EasyPA centralizes and simplifies the entire system—ultimately recovering lost revenue and improving access to care. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look into Dr. Ballester’s non-traditional path into medicine, her leadership philosophy, and how she juggles life as a physician, entrepreneur, and single mom.     -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What happens when a cardiologist and a frustrated dad teams up with tech experts and a pediatrician friend to fix a broken part of healthcare? You get Blueberry Pediatrics—a revolutionary telehealth solution putting pediatric care in your pocket. In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Kahan joins Mike Mannino to share how his personal parenting struggles led to founding a tech-driven healthcare company that offers unlimited pediatric care for families at a fraction of traditional costs. From his medical training in Israel and New York to navigating the startup world without a business background, Jonathan opens up about the challenges and breakthroughs that shaped his mission.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with tech consultant and former Google engineer, Javier Cortavitarte. From humble beginnings in Caracas, Venezuela to Silicon Valley boardrooms, Javier shares how he navigated his path to success through curiosity, community, and calculated risks. Javier dives into how his early fascination with technology and communication systems led to opportunities at Google, and later into the world of startups and consulting. He talks about the tough decision to leave the comfort of corporate life and place a bet on his own abilities—and why it paid off.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode, Mike sits down with Nick Abbott, a driven nursing student turned medical product entrepreneur, to unpack how an everyday problem in dermatology sparked a business idea that became the Cut to Fit Bandage. With no formal business background, Nick shares his story of launching a medical product from scratch—from testing fabrics in dermatology clinics to navigating the hurdles of Amazon sales, branding, and product packaging. Nick opens up about the challenges of competing with legacy brands like Band-Aid, and how he and his partner, Dr. Spencer Bezalel, leveraged their frontline experience in skin cancer surgeries to create a simple, customizable solution for wound care. Learn how Nick taught himself logistics, pricing, and marketing using books and YouTube—and how he’s turning risk into reward while growing a company from the ground up.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan talk with Cat Holt—former head of marketing strategy at Progressive and now founder of her own marketing firm. Cat takes us on her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, sharing how her background in psychology, advertising, and art helped shape her path. She dives into how AI is changing the marketing game, why multidisciplinary fluency is a must-have skill, and why “working in your talents” beats trying to be good at everything.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What if you could text your child’s pediatrician directly, skip the waiting room, and even get a home visit when needed? In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, Michael Mannino and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Dr. Michael Perisa, a pediatrician who's flipping the traditional healthcare model on its head. Michael shares his journey from pursuing pediatric oncology at St. Jude's to launching a patient-first, membership-based pediatric care system in Northeast Ohio. Learn how Zest Pediatric Network provides 24/7 direct access to pediatricians, eliminates unnecessary insurance barriers, and brings care into the home—all for a flat monthly fee. Michael opens up about the broken system of traditional care, the burnout it causes, and how his new model empowers both families and doctors. If you’re a parent, healthcare professional, or someone interested in how innovation can truly change lives, this episode is a must-listen.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Mike Mannino sits down with financial planning expert and entrepreneur Steven Huskey, CFP®, CExP™, for a high-energy conversation about growing businesses, building legacies, and making the most of your time. From helping dentists and business owners plan their exits, to raising kids, playing guitar at church, and leading a tight-knit team — Steven shares the tools, mindset, and hard-earned lessons that shape his approach to both life and work. Steven opens up about how he built Huskey Financial and Blue Water Dental Advisors, why identifying your ideal client is key, and how EOS and BHAGs help fuel his team’s performance. He breaks down the importance of focusing on the 20% that creates 80% of the results — both in business and at home.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

From a small village in Cameroon to leading a thriving real estate investment firm in the U.S., Leslie Awasom's journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Leslie shares how he transitioned from a high-earning nurse anesthetist to co-founding Exsi Capital Investments, a private equity platform helping medical professionals generate passive income through multifamily real estate. He opens up about what inspired his pivot, how he chased knowledge, and why he believes in the American Dream more than ever.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

At just 16 years old, Aleksandar Jovicic turned a love for lowriders into his first business selling car parts online. From being a refugee to founding Executive Digital, a powerhouse digital marketing firm, Aleksandar’s journey is filled with resilience, hustle, and innovation. In this high-energy episode, Aleksandar shares how his street smarts shaped his early business thinking, how he built a company with a team-first culture, and why he believes every employee should be a thought leader. He also opens up about the absence of mentors in his journey — and how he’s now paying it forward for the next generation. From building internal startups to receiving a lifetime achievement award from Harvard, Aleksandar reveals how real success comes from grit, mentorship, and experience.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with JoJo Kalita—Vice President of Partnerships at ACTO and a passionate advocate for emotional intelligence in the workplace. JoJo shares her professional journey from studying English and psychology to thriving in the tech-enabled healthcare sector. She discusses the vital role emotional intelligence plays in both personal and professional relationships, and how self-awareness, pausing, and intentional communication can transform interactions. From practical tips like reading body language and managing feedback, to dealing with the ethical challenges of AI in healthcare, JoJo brings both warmth and wisdom to the conversation. She even shares a few laughs about her love for her pit bull and how remembering pet names can make a lasting impression.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this eye-opening conversation, Robert Sherman shares how his work at SoloXR is helping industries—from emergency response to semiconductors—use immersive technology to enhance learning and safety. Learn how immersive training is filling talent gaps in rural areas, preparing workers for dangerous scenarios like battery fires, and helping industries reshore manufacturing jobs with confidence. Robert dives into how SoloXR integrates AI and VR/AR tools to create powerful training simulations that drive engagement, retention, and accessibility. He also offers insights on how individuals can start exploring immersive tech on their own and what it takes to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing tech landscape. You’ll also hear Robert’s perspective on navigating real vs. hype in tech disruption, his favorite way to generate passive income, and the exciting mobile lab project he’s launching in partnership with NC State.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Bill Vicary, founder of Just Call Bill, a unique business serving older adults who feel lost in today's tech-heavy world. With over 30 years of experience in engineering and construction, Bill took a surprising turn to follow his passion: helping seniors confidently, safely, and effectively use technology. Bill shares how a conversation with a frustrated senior sparked the idea for his business. Today, he leads personalized tech classes, teaches cybersecurity, manages tech buying trips, and collaborates with communities and professionals to serve seniors better.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Desiree Watson – the self-proclaimed “Swiss Army Professional.” From taxes to tech, document prep to publishing, Desiree shares how her mission to help people has turned into a thriving business that runs on heart, hustle, and real human connection. Desiree talks about how her entrepreneurial journey started out in a garage with a metal desk and a printer—and how she grew her business strictly by word of mouth. She opens up about transitioning from managing tax offices to running her own, why pricing has always been her biggest challenge, and how real trust—not ads—keeps her client base growing. You’ll hear how a serious car accident changed her path and led her to become the go-to problem solver for her community. Whether she’s helping a senior read a police report, guiding a client through an expungement, or publishing someone’s first book—Desiree shows up with solutions.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What if your business strategy coach was available to you like Jarvis is to Iron Man—right when you need them most? In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Simon Severino, founder and CEO of Strategy Sprints, to talk about how entrepreneurs can reclaim time, accelerate sales, and build businesses that give them true freedom. Simon shares how Strategy Sprints evolved from traditional consulting to a fast-paced, digital-first system that delivers support in real-time, anywhere in the world. He breaks down how his team helps business owners identify bottlenecks, run weekly experiments, and use data to drive growth every 7-day sprint. Listeners will learn the mindset shift from trading time for money to building scalable, recurring income streams. Simon also reveals his leadership philosophy, daily habits for peak performance, and how his new book co-authored with Jay Abraham, Time Freedom, is changing the way entrepreneurs think about growth.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring episode, Nareman Hamdan sits down with Trent Brands, CEO and founder of Title Base, a Naples-based title company dedicated to serving hometown heroes—veterans, first responders, educators, and healthcare workers. Trent shares his journey from Navy service member to real estate agent, and now as a title company owner with a strong mission. He opens up about the value of taking risks, lessons learned through failure, and the importance of having thick skin as an entrepreneur. You’ll also hear how Trent leads his team by example, encourages input from his staff, and builds a culture of ownership and trust. Whether you're in real estate, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just looking for inspiration, this episode delivers valuable insights into leadership, resilience, and growth.   ------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this inspiring conversation, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Oakley Dickson, a 4th-generation cobbler and community leader based in Columbia, South Carolina. Oakley shares how growing up in his family's shoe repair business laid the foundation for his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to mentoring youth. From leading an after-school program that taught high schoolers business, finances, and self-belief, to now running a thriving local shop with his son as the 5th generation in the trade, Oakley emphasizes the power of hands-on learning. He also shares the struggles of running a small business, adapting in a modern world, and how the trades are making a major comeback. Oakley and Mike discuss why schools aren't teaching these real-life skills—and what communities can do instead. If you're looking for proof that real-world exposure can transform a life, this episode delivers.   ------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

What does it really take to succeed—especially when no one’s handing you anything? In this raw and revealing episode, Michael Mannino sits down with Randall Hood, a top catastrophic injury attorney, to unpack his remarkable rise from selling shoes and driving a Ford Pinto to building a powerhouse litigation firm. Randall shares how growing up in a family rich in love but light in finances shaped his work ethic, why he believes success is found at the intersection of opportunity and commitment, and how his relentless pursuit of justice has helped families in their darkest hours.   ------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

Taxes can be confusing, intimidating—and let's be honest—downright terrifying for a lot of people. That’s exactly why we brought on Jessica Casucci, founder of Archangel Solutions, to break it all down. Jessica is not your average tax pro. She simplifies complex tax strategies, helps real estate investors find smart financial paths, and brings deep knowledge from decades in finance, law, and tax strategy. She’s also a Bronx-born, blue-collar-raised powerhouse who climbed from humble beginnings to become a trusted advisor for real estate professionals across the country.     ------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this heartfelt episode, Mike Mannino sits down with Janos Szathmari, a passionate Christian builder and farmer from Michigan, to explore the intersection of faith, craftsmanship, and humility. Janos opens up about his journey from prideful entrepreneur to humble servant, guided by a powerful relationship with Christ. He shares stories from his time in the construction world—highlighting the rewarding nature of transforming homes and the challenges of unmet customer expectations. We also dive into Janos' farming venture, where he and his wife raise Scottish Highland cattle with a mission to serve the Kingdom through high-quality food.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode of Driven: Unscripted Success, hosts Mike Mannino Sr. and Nareman Hamdan sit down with Edward MacMillan, a dynamic leader who took an unscripted path from operations to spearheading sales and marketing at IMS Solutions Group. Edward shares how leaning into AI completely reshaped not only his company's approach—but his own leadership philosophy. From navigating the complexities of a company merger to building high-performance teams rooted in trust, Edward opens up about the real challenges that shaped him. He dives deep into how AI is not just another IT buzzword, but a truly transformative force that redefines how businesses grow and evolve. Listeners will take away lessons on the value of staying curious, always being a student, and building leadership from within. Whether you’re in tech or not, this conversation offers clear, compelling insights into the future of business, leadership, and innovation.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.

In this episode, Mike Mannino sits down with Claudine Beron, CEO and Founder of Initiate Government Solutions, to discuss the power of relationships in business, and how they’ve helped her lead a company for over 18 years. From starting as a consultant in biotech to implementing massive government tech projects, Claudine’s journey is filled with practical wisdom and perseverance. She opens up about transitioning from employee to entrepreneur, the importance of strategic financial planning, and why networks—not resumes—are the real key to success. Claudine shares valuable insights on leadership, scaling a business, building the right team, and how being curious has kept her ahead in a changing landscape.   -------------------------------------------------------- Be a Guest: Are you a successful Naples-area business owner, entrepreneur, or professional with insights to share? Apply to be a guest at Driven: Unscripted Success and share your expertise with a wide audience eager to learn about you.