Scales Of Success Podcast

Where pressure, leadership, and character collide. In today’s episode, Marcus Arredondo talks with John Pierson about operating at the highest levels when mistakes are costly and standards are unforgiving. From elite finance to mission-critical roles, John brings a rare perspective shaped by environments where trust, discipline, and judgment matter every day. This conversation offers a grounded look at what separates those who last from those who fade when the pressure is real.John Pierson is the founder of P2 Investments, a boutique talent advisory firm working with top hedge fund investment and technology professionals worldwide. With decades of experience across military service, presidential air traffic control, and global finance, John is known for a relationship-driven approach built on trust, integrity, and long-term thinking. He advises both individuals and firms operating in high-stakes environments where performance and character must align.Get in touch with John Pierson:Website: https://www.p2investments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/p2agents/ Episode highlights:(2:34) What a hedge fund talent pod really is(4:59) Hedge funds Vs. Traditional investing explained(7:58) Serving both talent and firms ethically(12:58) Telling a person’s story, not sending resumes(17:12) Integrity over transactions(20:46) Ego, PTSD, and personal cost of success(27:57) Faith as a turning point(31:10) Teamwork lessons from the Marines(38:37) Discipline defined(41:08) Major trends shaping hedge funds and vetting(49:25) Air traffic controller for the President(52:09) Returning to Vietnam with his father(54:40) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In this episode of Scales Of Success Podcast, host Marcus Arredondo connects with Precious L. Williams for a raw, grounded conversation about ambition, resilience, and what success really asks of you. This is not a highlight reel or a victory lap. It is an honest look at rebuilding after loss, redefining achievement, and choosing a path that still feels whole. If you are chasing big goals and quietly wondering about the cost, this episode will stay with you.Precious L. Williams is the Founder and CEO of The Perfect Pitch Group, a Shark Tank alum, and a 13-time National Elevator Pitch Champion. She is a 5x #1 bestselling author and internationally recognized speaker who trains entrepreneurs, leaders, and Fortune 100 teams to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. Precious has worked with global brands including Verizon, BMW, Blackstone, HubSpot, Harvard University, and Columbia University, and is known worldwide for helping people turn powerful ideas into results.Learn more about Precious L. Williams: Website: https://perfectpitchgroup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-l-williams/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectpitchgroup/?hl=en Newsletter: https://perfectpitchgroup.com/subscribe Book Links: https://perfectpitchgroup.com/books/ Work 1 on 1 with her: https://perfectpitchgroup.com/experienceprecious/ FREE Gifts (first chapter of Rainmaking 101 and “Making it Rain in Your Business” PDF: https://perfectpitchgroup.com/free-gifts/ Episode highlights:(2:26) Losing everything after Shark Tank(6:56) Why losing law created freedom(8:05) Choosing identity over tragedy(12:24) Turning pain into confidence(15:11) Performing under emotional pressure(20:19) The power of reading books(26:24) The most successful pitches(33:19) Why being bold beats being liked(38:50) Through the open door and partnerships(48:24) How the pitching started(53:23) Writing poetry(59:54) Building purpose after addiction(1:02:29) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What do you do when the goal that drove you is gone?In today’s episode, Marcus welcomes Justin Wills, founder, executive, advisor, and investor with a deep focus on community, technology, and art, and a driving force behind the revival of Luna Luna. Justin shares the rarely discussed side of building, exiting, and starting again, including burnout, identity shifts, creative instinct, and learning to trust what feels right when the noise gets loud.This conversation is for founders, creatives, and leaders navigating ambition, purpose, and longevity. It is not about hacks or hype. It is about endurance, energy, and choosing work that can sustain you long after the win.About Justin Wills:Website: https://justinwills.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinwills/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justincwills/ Episode highlights:(2:22) How Society6 was born(7:56) Why the founding team worked and took risks with family(15:18) Hunger and trust(25:06) The shock after a big exit(30:58) When money replaces meaning and why people and teams matter(35:30) Luna Luna and lost art revived(41:21) Buying Luna Luna sight unseen(46:26) From big vision to reality(51:28) Building and advising new ventures(55:54) Burnout, balance, and recovery(1:02:46) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Stories that cut through borders, fear, and silence. In this episode, Marcus sits down with Jason De León to explore the human realities behind migration, smuggling, and survival. Through raw honesty and years of fieldwork, Jason brings forward the voices and moments most people never witness, revealing how hope, courage, and impossible decisions shape every journey north. This conversation pulls you beyond the headlines and into the lives that hold the true weight of our global migration crisis.Jason De León is a MacArthur Fellow, award-winning author, and Director of the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology at UCLA. He leads the Undocumented Migration Project, a research and arts collective bringing visibility to the human cost of global migration. His book Soldiers and Kings won the 2024 National Book Award for Nonfiction, and he is also a professor of Anthropology and Chicana/o and Central American Studies.Get in touch with Jason De León:🌐 Website: https://www.jasonpatrickdeleon.com/ Learn more about: The Undocumented Migration Project - Where migrant stories become visible. https://www.undocumentedmigrationproject.org/ Episode highlights:(2:14) Creating work from love, not awards(8:48) Facing danger and learning who to trust(13:19) What true access to someone’s story requires(15:44) The emotional cost of carrying others’ lives(20:31) What people misunderstand most about smugglers(25:16) How the U.S. relies on migrant labor every day(31:16) Why simple policy “fixes” don’t solve anything(42:02) The Undocumented Migration Project(44:12) How work and fatherhood helped him heal his own trauma(50:25) Jason's writing process and what teaches his kids about purpose(56:24) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In today’s episode of Scales Of Success Podcast, host Marcus Arredondo connects with neuroscientist Dr. Sarah McKay to reveal the real science behind identity, agency, and how the brain changes across life stages. You’ll learn why “baby brain” is misunderstood, how neuroplasticity fuels confidence, and what actually helps the brain create clarity, resilience, and long-term wellbeing. If you want a simple, smart way to understand your mind and upgrade your life, this conversation gives you the science and the strategy to start now.Dr. Sarah McKay is a neuroscientist, Oxford-trained researcher, author, and founder of Think Brain and The Neuroscience Academy. She specializes in neuroplasticity, women’s brain health, pregnancy, and cognitive wellbeing. She is the bestselling author of The Women’s Brain Book, Baby Brain, and Brain Health for Dummies, and is known for turning complex neuroscience into practical insights for everyday life.Learn more about Dr. Sarah McKay:🌐 Website: https://drsarahmckay.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmmckay/?originalSubdomain=auCheck out her books:https://drsarahmckay.com/books/Episode highlights:(3:25) How the brain gathers information(7:05) Thoughts, body signals, and meaning(10:50) What gray matter changes really mean(13:15) Pregnancy, pruning, and efficient brain wiring(17:04) The father’s brain and parenting changes(19:54) Why “baby brain” is misunderstood(26:19) Culture, confidence, and kids’ self-belief(31:23) Belonging, self-belief, and opportunity(48:32) The path to clear science communication(56:12) Real habits that support brain health(57:28) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if one idea could shift the world’s climate future? In this eye-opening episode, Marcus sits down with Dr. Daniele Visioni to uncover the surprising science shaping the planet’s temperature and the cutting-edge climate tools most people have never heard of. Clear, bold, and packed with powerful insight, this conversation opens the door to possibilities that could change how we think about risk, responsibility, and the future we’re building.Dr. Daniele Visioni is an Assistant Professor at Cornell University and a leading climate scientist specializing in climate intervention research. With a PhD in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics from Italy, he has collaborated with more than 300 scientists and contributed to over 100 peer-reviewed papers. He also serves as Head of Data at Reflective, a nonprofit accelerating global research on climate solutions.Connect with Daniele Visioni:📞 Phone: +1 607-280-0525🌐 Website: https://cals.cornell.edu/people/daniele-visioni 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/danvisioni/Episode highlights:(2:29) CO₂ as planetary debt(5:04) What solar reflection can do(9:14) Who caused the climate debt(14:20) Volcanoes as natural experiments(18:48) How stratospheric injection works(21:30) AI tools in climate modeling(22:08) Great Barrier Reef protection(27:46) Risk, caution, and trust(30:45) The fast Vs. Slow debate(37:53) Why people struggle with global thinking(41:00) Working with scientists worldwide(52:52) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

The quiet power of eating to outlive yourself. In this episode, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes Jason Antoun, Chairman and CEO, L-Nutra Inc., to drop truth bombs on how the way you eat, sleep, and stress is either building longevity or burning it. From the power of fasting to the science of cellular renewal, this episode strips the fluff and gives you the blueprint for aging backward without losing your sanity (or your snacks). It’s part biology, part rebellion, and all fire. Press play, reset your clock, and make time work for you.Reach out to Dr. Jason Antoun:🌐 Website: https://drjosephantoun.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjosephantoun/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/drjosephantoun/Episode highlights:(2:10) The five pillars of longevity(9:46) Self-advocacy Vs. The broken healthcare system(14:58) The rise of wearables and tech-driven health(18:37) Why every time you eat, you age(26:07) The science of fasting and cellular repair(32:57) How fasting mimicking works(44:39) The next frontier: Reversing biological age(50:09) The importance of awareness(52:11) Dr. Antoun’s daily longevity routine(55:23) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In today’s gripping episode of Scales Of Success, host Marcus Arredondo dialogues with Rich Diviney, a founder, retired Navy SEAL officer, author, keynote speaker, and workshop facilitator, to uncover how elite performers stay calm when chaos hits. From mastering uncertainty to turning pressure into power, Rich reveals the tools that build unshakable focus, humility, and drive. Tune in and learn how to think, lead, and win like a SEAL, no matter what battlefield you’re on.Rich Diviney is a retired Navy SEAL CDR who spent over 21 years as an Officer, serving in several leadership positions and conducting over 13 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Since retirement, he has become a bestselling author of The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance and Masters of Uncertainty: The Navy SEAL Way to Turn Stress into Success For You and Your Team. He and his wife, Kristen, co-founded The Attributes Inc., where they train and consult thousands of businesses and teams on how to build and sustain the highest-performing teams on the planet.Find out more about Rich Diviney:🌐 Website: https://learn.theattributes.com/mastering-uncertainty 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richdiviney/ 📸 IG: https://www.instagram.com/rich_diviney/Episode highlights:(4:12) How SEALs adapt in chaos(8:59) Skills Vs. Attributes: What really matters(14:53) Perseverance and resilience(17:43) Adaptability, task switching, and learnability(22:18) The meaning of discipline and faith(27:05) The Moving Horizons process(34:27) Developing attributes and inner strength(39:05) Courage, fear, and doing hard things(44:22) Dynamic subordination: How elite teams flow(51:35) Identity, “I Am” statements, and growth(56:13) Why stepping into uncertainty changes everything(57:04) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if the path to spiritual strength began with a barbell? In this episode, Marcus connects with Sister Pat Farrell, who turned faith into physical power, proving it’s never too late to redefine what strength means. From corporate life to convent life to competitive powerlifting, she reveals how discipline, purpose, and belief can transform both body and soul. Press play and witness what happens when grace meets grit and strength becomes a form of prayer.Sister Pat Farrell, O.P., is a Dominican Sister of San Rafael and a 72-year-old powerlifting champion redefining faith and strength. Once a finance professional in Santa Monica, she followed her calling to a life of faith and leadership. Today, she inspires thousands through her ministry and her message: transformation never stops. Whether in prayer or at the gym, Sister Pat lives with discipline, gratitude, and purpose in motion.Learn more about Sister Pat Farrell:🌐 Website: https://sanrafaelop.org/2025/08/08/sr-pat-farrell-lifting-more-than-spirits/Episode highlights:(3:25) Life before the convent & turning vegan(5:38) Discipline over motivation: The real secret(11:27) Starting strength training at 72  (18:22) Facing fear and finding empowerment  (25:54) How lifting healed her body and spirit  (33:13) Faith, purpose, and the power of community  (41:46) The pillars of the Dominican Sisters(49:30) Merging Buddhism and Catholic wisdom  (54:57) Forgiveness, faith, and letting go  (1:00:55) Choosing strength and purpose every day(1:02:32) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Where data meets destiny. In today’s mind-bending episode, host Marcus Arredondo is joined by Richard Sprague to reveal how personal data, AI, and curiosity are rewriting the rules of longevity. From microbiome tracking to AI eye scans, Richard proves that the future of science isn’t in labs, it’s in your hands. If you’re tired of guessing what works for your body and want to see real proof, this episode will flip the way you think about health forever.Richard Sprague is a technologist, entrepreneur, and “personal scientist” who turns data into self-discovery. A former Apple and Microsoft exec, he now runs OptiCare AI and writes the Personal Science Substack, helping people use data, AI, and curiosity to live longer and think sharper.Connect with Richard Sprague:Substack: https://www.personalscience.com/ X: https://x.com/sprague LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sprague/Episode highlights:(4:41) How accidents lead to discoveries(10:18) Lessons from living in Japan and China(17:46) Handling conflicting information(27:10) The Kefir experiment that changed everything(39:16) Can your microbiome predict dementia?(41:40) Continuous glucose monitoring insights(44:04) How Vagus nerve stimulation may calm the brain(46:39) EMF testing and the migraine mystery(51:34) Eye-based AI health scans with OptiCare(59:47) How AI is reshaping personal health tracking(1:12:45) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In this electrifying episode of Scales Of Success, host Marcus Arredondo chats with Sean Waters, a musician, performer, writer, philosopher, and father, to talk about ego, purpose, and what it really means to live a well-examined life. From Joseph Campbell to Stoicism and Buddhist wisdom, Sean breaks down how self-awareness, creativity, and daily reflection can turn chaos into clarity. If you’ve ever felt stuck between who you are and who you’re meant to be, this conversation is your wake-up call. Listen now and start turning your setbacks into wisdom that sticks.Sean Waters is a master teacher at Colorado State University, where he’s taught English for over 13 years. With dual master’s degrees in Philosophy and English Education, he’s helped hundreds of students create meaningful, fulfilling lives. In 2021, he founded the Wisdom Workshop to guide professionals through midlife transitions toward purpose and joy. Beyond the classroom, Sean is a passionate musician and songwriter, reaching over 5,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.Link up with Sean Waters:🌐 Website: https://www.wisdomworkshop.io/ 🔖 Substack: https://seanwaters.substack.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seancharleswaters/Episode highlights:(3:27) How to find your bliss?(11:42) Lessons from Stoicism and Buddhism(14:39) Follow your bliss and your grunt(16:44) Failure as feedback and iteration(26:14) The ego’s role in fulfillment(37:34) Writing as a mirror for the mind(45:22) Starting the Wisdom Workshop(51:58) Lessons from failure and indifference(56:18) How Buddhist thought informs modern life(1:00:52) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What happens when everything you thought defined you is stripped away? In this gripping conversation, Marcus interviews Terry Healey to reveal how tragedy can ignite purpose, power, and resilience. This isn’t about survival, it’s about the fire that rises when nothing else is left. Press play and feel the strength you didn’t know you had.Terry Healey is a survivor of a life-threatening cancer that left him with a permanent facial difference, and he is an author, keynote speaker, and business strategist. A graduate of UC Berkeley with a thirty-five-year career as a marketing executive, Terry challenges audiences to face adversity and change, and apply his ReBAR resilience framework and principles to gain confidence, build resilience, and find greater purpose and joy in their personal and professional lives. Terry lives in Santa Cruz, CA, with his wife, Sue.Reach out to Terry Healey:🌐 Website: https://terryhealey.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryhealey/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terryhealeyus/?hl=enEpisode highlights:(1:46) Life changes with a rare cancer diagnosis(6:34) Terry’s survival kit: Faith and gratitude(12:12) Dina’s tough words that sparked change(20:11) Embracing change and building resilience(25:32) Finding purpose through helping others(30:47) Taking risk, vulnerability, and true liberation(47:32) The power of trimming toxic relationships(52:39) Practicing kindness and empathy daily(55:28) Turning point: No more surgeries(59:35) Terry's writing process(1:01:43) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Turning food, strength, and time into freedom. In today's episode, host Marcus Arredondo sits down with Dr. Moe to uncover fresh perspectives on healthspan, nutrition, and the hidden forces that shape energy, mindset, and longevity. From food noise to fitness, Dr. Moe reveals why the path to freedom begins with the choices we make every day. Press play and see how health can transform into real freedom.Dr. Maureen “Dr. Moe” Gibbons is a board-certified physician, Ironman athlete, and founder of AMS Lifestyle Medicine. After decades of personal health battles and a high-pressure medical career, she discovered the key wasn’t working harder, it was shifting smarter. Today, she helps high achievers create health freedom through practical, sustainable strategies that last. She’s also the author of the upcoming book Freedom to Shift, a roadmap to health, time, and energy freedom.Learn more about Dr. Maureen "Dr. Moe" Gibbons:Website: amslifestylemedicine.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/doctormoe Podcast: drmoepodcast.com YouTube: watchdoctormoe.comEpisode highlights:(2:13) Deciding to take on Ironman(7:25) Medicine, parenting, and shifting priorities(11:32) Food as comfort and challenge(15:04) How GLP-1 medications work(24:26) Monthly at-home lab testing(34:07) Building sustainable eating habits(40:09) Finding joy in everyday life(51:18) Fitness priorities at 25, 50, and 80(56:48) Facing menopause with strength and clarity(59:22) Writing Freedom to Shift(1:02:31) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In this week’s heartfelt episode of Scales Of Success, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes Bob Roth to reveal how Transcendental Meditation (TM) is transforming lives, from prison yards to Fortune 100 boardrooms. Bob shares moving stories and hard science on how TM lowers stress, heals trauma, and builds lasting resilience. Discover why this simple daily practice may soon be as essential as medicine.Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, is one of the world’s leading teachers of Transcendental Meditation. For over five decades, he’s guided thousands, including veterans, trauma survivors, and business leaders, toward greater calm and clarity. He is also the author of the New York Times bestseller Strength in Stillness and a respected voice on global stages from Aspen to the Vatican.Connect with Bob Roth:🌐 Website: https://meditationbob.com/ 📧 Email: [email protected] 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bob-roth-05838922 📸 IG: instagram.com/meditationbob💬 Facebook: facebook.com/MeditationBobEpisode highlights:(2:01) Teaching transcendental meditation at San Quentin(7:46) The true meaning of lasting happiness(13:54) Science and research behind TM’s benefits(18:45) How TM rewires the brain and builds resilience(27:28) The power of pause(31:28) Going beyond ordinary limits(35:22) Living in flow as a daily state(40:56) What “the self” really means in meditation(46:10) Living 200% of life, inner and outer fulfillment(51:08) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it take to risk it all for the perfect shot? In today’s episode of Scales of Success, Marcus connects with Bo Bridges, a world-renowned advertising and fine art photographer, about chasing storms, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments, and building a creative career that pushes limits. This is a story of vision, grit, and the artistry behind unforgettable images.Bo Bridges is an internationally acclaimed visual artist whose portfolio spans sports, celebrity portraits, global ad campaigns, and fine art. His galleries in Manhattan Beach, Maui, and Vail showcase breathtaking landscapes and cinematic compositions, while ESPN has described his work as a “pyramid wall filled with iconic pieces of history” and Elite Daily dubbed him “The World’s Most Badass Photographer.” Most recently, he expanded into filmmaking with Big Wave: No Room for Error, an immersive documentary now showing at Cosm Theatres.More about Bo Bridges:Website: www.bobridgesgallery.com/ Instagram: instagram.com/bobridges and instagram.com/bobridgesgallery TikTok: tiktok.com/@bobridges.gallery YouTube: youtube.com/@Bo_BridgesEpisode highlights:(2:29) Last-minute travel and storm chasing(7:16) Choosing what’s gallery-worthy(15:57) From X Games to Mountain Dew break(20:27) How digital changed photography forever(28:06) The scary but fun(31:29) Behind the lens with Tom Cruise(42:37) Surf ranch, perfect waves, and innovation(53:00) Balancing family life and adventure(57:26) Creating the immersive film Big Wave(59:56) How the gallery business grew(1:08:19) Another shot at Fiji(1:12:22) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Growth begins at the edge of resistance. In this episode, Marcus sits down with Mike Pawlawski to break down how challenges shape character and why resilience is the foundation of success. From mastering identity to building confidence through hard work, Mike shares practical strategies that help leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs thrive under pressure. Packed with mindset tools and real stories, this conversation shows how to turn obstacles into opportunities for lasting growth.Mike Pawlawski is a performance mindset coach, speaker, and bestselling author of Every Day Great. Known for guiding high performers and teams, he combines neuroscience, lived experience, and practical frameworks to help people reset limiting beliefs, unlock resilience, and achieve peak results in life and work.Link up with Mike Pawlawski:🌐 Website: https://mikepawlawski.com/ 💬Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MikePawlawskiCoach 📸IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikepawlawskicoach/ ▶️YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EveryDayGreatPodcast 💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepawlawski/👉 Ready to strengthen your mindset? Text GREAT to 55444 for free resources and tools to help you grow.Episode highlights:(2:01) Identity shapes purpose and growth(7:39) Why are you always training?(10:38) Overcoming illness through sports(19:58) Coaching athletes and leaders(25:07) Lessons for solopreneurs and founders(41:39) Playing free Vs. Playing small(46:40) The power of repetition(54:18) If you can't teach, you can't coach(57:56) The High Achievers Protocol explained(1:03:03) Talent, work, and character(1:09:52) Building other identities(1:16:07) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In today’s heartfelt episode of Scales Of Success, host Marcus Arredondo talks with Jeffrey Boldt to talk about resilience, creativity, and the lessons grief can teach us. Through stories of love and loss, Jeffrey reveals how humor, memory, and art can help us carry forward strength and purpose.Jeffrey D. Boldt is an author and former environmental law judge. His work spans short fiction, poetry, and essays in outlets like HuffPost and Tikkun. He is the author of Blue Lake and Big Lake Troubles, acclaimed eco-thrillers blending law, climate, and human resilience.Connect with Jeffrey D. Boldt:🌐 Website: https://www.jeffreydboldt.net./ 📧 Email: [email protected] highlights:(1:35) A global response to grief(5:52) Resilience and emotional memory(10:01) Rebecca’s humor and lasting love(15:34) Redefining identity through loss(22:00) From judge to novelist(33:02) Comedy, tragedy, and healing(46:06) Writing process and daily discipline(58:58) Climate, law, and what’s at stake(1:06:35) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Are today’s parenting habits making kids less resilient? In this week’s episode, Marcus welcomes Michaeleen Doucleff, NPR correspondent and bestselling author of Hunt, Gather, Parent, to share lessons from cultures around the world on raising capable, connected children. From letting go of overpraise to fostering real contribution, Michaeleen offers simple, powerful shifts that nurture confidence, purpose, and emotional strength for kids and adults alike.Michaeleen Doucleff is an NPR science correspondent covering parenting, psychology, and neuroscience. Formerly a research chemist with a PhD from UC Berkeley and a fellowship at the NIH, she is the New York Times bestselling author of Hunt, Gather, Parent. Her upcoming book, Dopamine Kids, arrives in March 2026.Learn more about Michaeleen Doucleff:🌐Website: https://michaeleendoucleff.com/Episode highlights:(6:48) Why is praise a weak tool?(11:37) Cooperation as a core human need(17:02) The forgotten roots of modern parenting advice(22:34) The power of being quiet(28:42) Chores, purpose, and mental health(36:04) Emotional regulation by modeling calm(46:30) Key lessons from raising Rosie(50:19) Introducing Dopamine Kids(51:47) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Shaping tomorrow through wisdom, science, and hope. In today’s episode, Marcus Arredondo connects with Cornell professor Toby Ault to discuss what most people get wrong about climate change, how to approach skeptics with curiosity, and why aligning passion with purpose matters. Through stories of travel, research, and teaching, this episode reveals practical wisdom for facing today’s challenges and building a more resilient future.Toby Ault is an Associate Professor of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Cornell University and Director of Graduate Studies in Atmospheric Science. His work spans climate variability, megadroughts, and wildfire risk, bridging fundamental research with real-world impact. He teaches across all levels, mentors the STARDUST project team, and is recognized for connecting scientific rigor with thoughtful guidance that equips the next generation to navigate uncertainty with clarity and resilience.Find out more about Toby Ault:🌐Website: https://ecrl.eas.cornell.edu/people/ 💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-ault-141506292/ Episode highlights:(2:50) From math major to climate scientist(6:51) Lessons from retracing Darwin’s voyage(14:46) Choosing climate science as a life’s work(19:59) What most people get wrong about climate change?(29:25) How to talk to climate skeptics(37:23) Career alignment and midlife recalibration(41:15) The tenure process and academic pressures(48:28) Funding challenges and diversifying support(59:46) Advice for students on sustaining passions(1:06:17) Balancing human connection and AI in education(1:17:36) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In this candid episode of Scales of Success, host Marcus Arredondo chats with serial entrepreneur David Makharadze to share hard-earned lessons from a career spanning scrappy startups to major exits. From recognizing opportunities others miss to forging lasting partnerships and navigating challenges with integrity, David shares strategies and stories that have driven his success.David Makharadze is an investor, operator, and entrepreneur with a track record of building and scaling ventures across technology, real estate, renewable energy, among many others. A graduate of Cornell’s Hotel School, he has built and scaled multiple businesses, diving fearlessly into every challenge and mastering any skill needed to make them thrive. He’s still in the trenches wearing a variety of hats, including advising growth-stage companies, mentoring founders, and backing projects built to last.How to connect with David Makharadze:Website: https://www.cambridgespg.com/team/david-makharadze/ Email: [email protected] highlights:(3:50) Scaling Wall Street bites(8:31) Why did he give it all away?(20:29) A 16-year-old’s first shuttle biz(28:53) Identifying and nurturing natural curiosity(34:38) Building and scaling Zustek to acquisition(43:43) Passion, grit, and staying in(50:17) When everything goes wrong(55:20) The Palm Springs comeback story(1:04:18) Business advice that actually works(1:11:13) Mentorship, teaching, and giving back(1:16:44) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it mean to dedicate your life to music? In today’s thoughtful episode, Marcus jives with pianist and professor Christopher Guzman to talk about passion, pressure, and purpose. From childhood wonder to world stages, Chris shares the highs, lows, and lessons of a life in music, plus a few moving moments at the piano you won’t want to miss.Christopher Guzman, professor of piano at Northwestern's Bienen School of Music, is an international prize winner and classical concert pianist. He studied at the Juilliard School, the New England Conservatory of Music, and at UT Austin, and regularly performs around the world, including venues such as Carnegie's Weill Hall, David Geffen Hall in NYC, Suntory Hall in Tokyo, Wigmore Hall in London, among others.Learn more about Christopher Guzman:Website: https://christopherguzmanpiano.com/ Email: [email protected] highlights:(2:52) Advice for aspiring artists(4:51) Music obsession(10:51) Youth orchestra’s lasting impact(17:15) How performance has changed over time(21:33) When music becomes just a job(28:00) Do composers’ lives shape their music?(33:25) Teaching artistry and emotional blockages(42:59) How performance anxiety is overcome(49:42) Why quitting would mean losing a part of himself(54:17) A joyful piano performance(59:37) Do musicians think like mathematicians?(1:02:07) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Where silence blooms, transformation begins. In this episode, Marcus welcomes Ali Amirhooshmand to explore how one psilocybin study sparked lasting change, from quieting anxious thoughts to shifting national conversations. This is a story of inner peace, policy reform, and what’s possible when science meets advocacy.Ali Amirhooshmand is a policy strategist and former congressional advisor with deep experience in tech, cannabis, and psychedelic reform. Now advising startups and shaping advocacy from the private sector, he brings both professional insight and personal passion to the future of mental health.Reach out to Ali Amirhooshmand:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirhooshmand/Episode highlights:(3:12) The study that changed everything(6:49) What psychedelic therapy really involves(15:08) Healing before the hurt begins(18:25) Breaking generational trauma cycles(21:32) Lessons that last beyond the journey(36:50) From Congress to consciousness(43:15) Disruption, pharma, and politics(55:10) Ali’s work with Dutchie(58:16) Why the Safe Banking Act matters(1:00:35) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In today’s heartfelt episode of Scales of Success, host Marcus Arredondo connects with Manny Alvarez, who shares lessons from his time in government, his leadership at Affirm, and the emotional truths he uncovered through writing and fatherhood. From navigating political pressure and tech disruption to helping his son feel safe enough to love the color pink, Manny opens up about masculinity, resilience, and the courage to build something meaningful, both in business and at home. If you're leading, parenting, or creating in any way, this episode will remind you that your softness can be your strength.Manny Alvarez is the Co-Founder and President of Manifest Financial, a business banking platform built for the creator economy. A former fintech exec at Affirm and California’s chief banking regulator, he’s spent his career at the intersection of finance, law, and public service. Manny also writes about fatherhood, identity, and leadership, blending policy expertise with personal insight. He lives in Sacramento with his wife and two boys, where he fixes cars for fun and believes in building with heart.Connect with Manny Alvarez:Website: https://www.manifestfinancial.com/Episode highlights:(2:45) ICE raids and immigration reality(6:23) Losing faith in government systems(11:52) Teaching advocacy through fatherhood(21:48) Becoming California’s banking commissioner(32:35) Burnout and resigning during COVID(37:55) Where banking is headed next(40:28) Leadership lessons from Max Levchin(52:36) Writing as healing and self-discovery(1:03:48) Redefining masculinity as a father(1:10:34) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What drives you to keep going when the outcome is unclear? In this powerful episode, Marcus chats with Ty Lifeset to talk about risk, reinvention, and why chasing what energizes you might be the smartest move of all. It’s a conversation about creative grit, letting go, and finding joy in the work itself. Whether you’re an aspiring creator or seasoned founder, this episode will remind you that the journey is the reward.Ty Lifeset is a seasoned creative, entrepreneur, and founder known for building standout brands and bold ideas. With a background in advertising, screenwriting, and podcasting, he blends strategic thinking with genuine storytelling to bring fresh ideas to life.Learn more about Ty Lifeset: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylifeset/Pyramid the PodcastX: https://x.com/pyramidthepod1Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3DAtD0Ub6n1VS5U8ASHICk?si=c52e2921474541f0Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pyramid-the-podcast/id1701838206Episode highlights:(2:36) Defining what’s worth pursuing(6:59) Business with friends: Risk or reward?(11:44) Lessons from a failed startup(13:34) The importance of diverse teams(19:48) Conviction, perseverance, and blind faith(25:49) From screenwriting to CAA(30:46) Scaling an agency through relationships(34:36) Launching a decentralized consultancy(40:50) Creating "Pyramid the Podcast"(46:36) Unexpected joy and audience impact(50:35) Pressure, passion, and living fully(53:48) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In today’s moving episode of Scales of Success, host Marcus Arredondo speaks with Alan Graham, founder of Community First! Village. Alan shares how his faith, real estate background, and personal hardships led him to build a 51-acre community for over 500 formerly homeless residents. Discover the real causes of homelessness and how purpose and belonging can change lives. Alan Graham is the founder of Mobile Loaves & Fishes and a visionary behind Community First! Village. A former real estate developer turned social entrepreneur, his work combines faith, dignity, and innovation to serve those coming out of chronic homelessness.Find out more about Alan Graham:Website: https://mlf.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlfnow/Episode highlights:(2:15) What does home really mean?(5:22) The root cause of homelessness(10:08) Lessons from a mentally ill mother(15:46) A life-changing spiritual retreat(22:12) How the food truck idea started(25:18) Living on the streets with intention(33:00) From RV park to healing village(38:46) Community opposition and redirection(43:03) A place of permanent belonging(45:58) How it’s being replicated nationally(49:09) Redefining success and fatherhood(52:13) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if your greatest success came after your worst moment? In this unforgettable episode of Scales of Success, Marcus welcomes Robert Paylor, who was paralyzed during a rugby match, and chose to rise. From ICU to walking at graduation, Robert shares the mindset, faith, and purpose that redefined his life. Whether you’re facing a setback or searching for meaning, this episode is packed with the kind of clarity and courage that can reframe your life.Robert Paylor is a sought-after speaker and author who helps audiences unlock resilience through the power of mindset. Once told he'd never walk again, Robert has turned that prognosis into a platform, showing others how to transform limitation into leadership. His work challenges teams and individuals to rise above setbacks with courage, clarity, and conviction. His debut book, Paralyzed to Powerful, shares the mental tools that helped him rebuild not just his body, but his life.Connect with Robert Paylor:Website: https://www.robertpaylor.com/ Book: https://a.co/d/0GzcLpL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rob.paylor/ X: https://twitter.com/RobertPaylor5 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertpaylor5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-paylor/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rob.paylorEpisode highlights:(1:59) Who is Robert Paylor?(8:10) The moment everything changed(14:03) Choosing a mindset in the chaos(21:05) Walking again, against all odds(26:42) The role of family and faith(32:23) Redefining identity after trauma(40:03) Turning pain into purpose(44:10) How to find your team(50:58) The power of sharing your story(54:41) The Order of Malta(59:16) The Lourdes pilgrimage(1:06:07) Forgiveness and letting go(1:10:50) What does true success really mean?(1:12:53) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What happens when algorithms shape how young girls see themselves and who’s watching? In today’s episode, Marcus Arredondo sits down with Jennifer Valentino-DeVries to share the story behind her powerful investigation into the world of child influencers. They explore the hidden economies of social media, the role of data in uncovering systemic issues, and why transparency in tech matters more than ever. With warmth and clarity, Jennifer also reflects on her path into journalism, the writing process, and what keeps her pursuing the truth.Jennifer Valentino-DeVries is an investigative reporter at The New York Times, where she uses novel datasets to uncover and explain complex issues, often focusing on the wide-reaching effects of technology on society. In 2022, she was part of the team awarded the Pulitzer Prize in National Reporting for exposing systemic failures in American policing that led to preventable deaths. Before joining The Times, she spent over a decade at The Wall Street Journal as an interactive producer, reporter, and member of the investigative team.Learn more about Jennifer Valentino-DeVries:Website: https://www.nytimes.com/by/jennifer-valentino-devries X: https://x.com/jenvalentino LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifervalentinodevries/Episode highlights:(5:30) Tech, behavior, and addiction feedback loops(6:57) Should social media be regulated?(10:03) Lawsuits and liability in big tech(13:21) Why Congress struggles with tech policy(16:20) Advice for parents navigating tech(18:58) Jennifer’s path into journalism(28:47) Interviewing people with complexity(35:33) Using data in investigative reporting(42:29) Collaborative work(47:27) The collapse of local journalism(51:15) Winning a Pulitzer and what it means(56:51) Her writing process and creative rhythm(58:08) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

In this raw and revealing episode of Scales of Success, Marcus connects with Mark Kenney, who opens up about scaling fast, losing big, and the emotional toll that nearly broke him. He shares unfiltered insights on battling depression, rebuilding identity, and finding peace through faith, family, and fitness. From navigating failed deals to redefining success, Mark offers hard-won wisdom for anyone walking through a storm. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply human, this episode is a powerful reminder that your worth isn't defined by your wins  and that healing often begins with the simplest things.Mark Kenney is a numbers-driven real estate investor with a heart for people and a mission to help others build lasting wealth. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Think Multifamily, he has syndicated over 120 multifamily transactions spanning 18,000+ units and more than $1 billion in value. Mark works with both accredited and non-accredited investors, offering ethical, well-vetted opportunities rooted in deep experience, data, and diligence.Get in touch with Mark Kenney:Website: https://thinkmultifamily.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kenney-566065142/Episode highlights:(1:48) Seeing life differently after loss(4:17) Redefining what really matters(8:04) Family, faith, and the turning point(12:10) Facing depression (15:39) Getting unstuck: Steps that helped(20:44) Lessons from failing 20 deals(26:11) Protecting yourself in partnerships(34:31) Fatherhood, guilt, and redemption(39:50) Rethinking wealth and peace of mind(43:09) How to scale?(46:57) Fitness, food, and mental resilience(53:34) Simple habits that save your sanity(54:22) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What stories are we told, and which ones do we choose to tell? In this powerful conversation, Marcus Arredondo chats with Nicole Graev Lipson to explore the evolving shape of womanhood, identity, and the courage to speak truth. From parenting a gender non-conforming child to reclaiming creativity after motherhood, Nicole shares what it means to live honestly in a world that often prefers silence. Whether you're a parent, a writer, or someone rethinking your place in the world, this episode will meet you where you are.Nicole Graev Lipson is the author of the memoir in essays, Mothers and Other Fictional Characters, a USA Today national bestseller. Her writing has appeared in The Sun, Virginia Quarterly Review, LA Review of Books, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, and Marie Claire, among other venues. Her work has been awarded a Pushcart Prize, shortlisted for a National Magazine Award, and selected for The Best American Essays anthology. Originally from New York City, she lives outside of Boston with her husband and children.Explore Nicole’s Work & Book:Website: https://nicolegraevlipson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nglipson/?hl=enEpisode highlights:(3:46) Teaching gender through Shakespeare(7:31) How identity evolves with time(14:58) Parenting without projecting(18:42) Labels, identity, and social comfort(22:39) Misconceptions around gender resistance(26:08) How motherhood reshaped her creativity(31:00) Writing with urgency and purpose(43:50) Why telling the truth is activism(59:07) Writing truthfully with kindness(53:48) The freedom that comes with honesty(56:52) Where feminism goes from here(1:01:55) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if the very thing you feared could be the path to healing? In this powerful conversation, Marcus Arredondo sits down with Army Ranger-turned-psychedelic advocate Jesse Gould, who shares his raw and personal journey from Wall Street and war zones to rock bottom, and eventually to profound healing through ayahuasca. Together, they explore how psychedelics are changing the mental health landscape for veterans with PTSD and why the stigma needs to be reexamined. This is not a quick-fix solution, but a movement grounded in research, compassion, and real transformation.Jesse Gould is an Army Ranger veteran, ultra runner, and founder of Heroic Hearts Project. He’s led groundbreaking efforts connecting veterans to psychedelic therapy, partnering with top research institutions and global healing centers. Featured in outlets like 60 Minutes and Forbes, Jesse is a leading voice in reshaping how we treat trauma.🔗 Episode references:🌎 U.S. Vets with PTSD Take Psychedelic Journey - https://cbsn.ws/4kjOPiw 📺 60 Minutes: A Psychedelic Journey - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zpe_G8_k1sLearn more about Jesse Gould:Website: https://heroicheartsproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroicheartsproject/#Episode highlights:(3:04) Why psychedelics are misunderstood(9:41) Mental health crisis and stigma(11:17) Jesse’s PTSD and VA challenges(17:12) The warning signs of rock bottom(24:48) A breaking point in corporate life(27:19) Taking the leap to try ayahuasca(30:13) Healing, breakthroughs, and lasting change(38:17) Psychedelics as a reset button(44:11) Heroic Hearts Project and family healing(48:56) Bipartisan support and U.S. policy(52:41) The VA, funding, and future hope(57:21) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if the chaos in your mind was actually a signal, not a sentence? In this episode, Marcus connects with Dr. Andrew Hill, founder of Peak Brain Institute, to explore how brain mapping and neurofeedback can unlock focus, heal trauma, and boost performance. From improving sleep to regulating emotions and accessing flow states, Dr. Hill explains how measurable brain activity translates into everyday breakthroughs. Learn how to move from helplessness to agency by training your brain like a muscle. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your head, this conversation reveals the science of getting unstuck.Dr. Andrew Hill is a UCLA-trained cognitive neuroscientist. With expertise in QEEG brain mapping and neurofeedback, he helps people enhance focus, sleep, and emotional regulation through personalized brain training. Dr. Hill believes that most mental challenges are not disorders, but patterns that can be changed. His work blends science, practical tools, and real-world results to empower people to take control of their brain health.Connect with Dr. Andrew Hill:Website: https://peakbraininstitute.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewhillphd/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/drhill🎁 Special Offer: Listeners can get $250 off the $499 QEEG plan by mentioning the podcast or by visiting 👉 https://peakbraininstitute.com/special/  Episode highlights:(2:06) Defining agency through brain mapping(7:33) Why sleep, stress, and focus are connected(13:06) How to improve deep sleep naturally(16:46) What a brain map shows(24:50) Neurofeedback: How brain training works(32:56) Linking brain patterns to physical symptoms(37:46) Unlocking creativity and healing with alpha-theta(44:38) The neuroscience behind flow states(54:45) Willpower, resistance, and ADHD explained(56:58) Dr. Hill’s journey and breakthrough(1:02:38) From diagnosis to control(1:06:00) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What do you do when safety vanishes in an instant? In this raw and powerful conversation, Marcus sits down as a follow-on mini-episode with Assaf Glazer—tech founder, father, and eyewitness to the October 7 terrorist attack in Israel—for an emotional recounting of survival, uncertainty, and resilience. From sheltering without a door to parenting through trauma, this conversation reveals the quiet strength it takes to protect and persevere. Assaf Glazer was with his children, siblings, and parents in southern Israel when the attack began. In the midst of chaos, with no clear guidance and no safe shelter, his instinct kicked in. In this moving postscript conversation, Assaf shares what he and his family endured, the long shadows of trauma, and how he’s finding clarity and calm in a digitally chaotic world Get in touch with Dr. Assaf Glazer:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-glazer-264aaa20/Website: https://www.vinst.me/Episode highlights:(0:00) Intro(0:57) What happened after the conflict?(3:31) Were you with your family?(4:23) What’s going through your mind when you’re in the shelter?(5:23) How have you moved forward—and what advice do you give your kids?(6:55) Parallels between Israel’s trauma and post-9/11 New York(7:44) How is life now?(8:00) Cultivating optimism and focusing on what energizes you(8:53) What do you think the world should know about those living this now?(11:08) The threat of AI-driven misinformation in global crises(12:22) OutroConnect with MarcusLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/X (Twitter): https://x.com/cusScales of SuccessWebsite: scalesofsuccesspodcast.comX (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccessYoutube Channel: https://www.Connect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if the nights that broke you open became the ones that built you? In today’s episode, Marcus connects with Dr. Assaf Glazer, father, founder, and maker of meaning, whose journey flows from sleepless cribs to soulful kitchens. From Nanit to Vinst, this is a story of reinvention, where AI meets instinct, and technology learns to care.Dr. Assaf Glazer is a seasoned AI expert and product innovator with a Ph.D. in computer vision from the Technion and postdoc work at Cornell Tech. He’s led teams across industries from semiconductors to consumer tech and is now focused on transforming home cooking through his latest venture, Vinst. Known for turning complex tech into practical tools, Assaf brings a rare blend of deep science, creative thinking, and real-world impact.Get in touch with Dr. Assaf Glazer:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-glazer-264aaa20/Episode highlights:(3:04) How Nanit was born(7:28) Transforming baby sleep with AI(11:32) Built Nanit, funded smart, and learned lessons inside(19:43) When a team breaks down(24:22) Creating culture with core(29:04) Why Assaf left Nanit(34:48) A culinary reinvention(40:49) How Vinst is changing cooking(48:16) Assaf's outlook on AI(50:46) Life lessons from building startups(52:59) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it take to launch a wellness brand that sticks and scales? In this inspiring episode, Marcus welcomes John Klein to share the quiet courage behind building a wellness sanctuary in a world that rarely slows down. From sleepless nights to studios across the country, this is a story of risk, resilience, and reclaiming what it means to feel well.John Klein is the Co-Founder and CEO of Pause Studio, a pioneering wellness brand offering science-backed recovery experiences like float therapy, cryotherapy, and IV drips. After two decades scaling major fitness brands like Equinox and SoulCycle, John stepped out of the corporate world to build something deeply personal: an accessible, high-impact studio for proactive healing. With over 100 franchise territories awarded, he’s on a mission to bring holistic health to everyday people, one pause at a time.Find out more about John Klein:Website: https://pausestudio.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-klein-4251a75a/Episode highlights:(2:08) What does Pause Wellness Studio offer?(6:47) Why John finally made the leap(12:07) Choosing franchising to scale wellness(15:49) How local owners fuel success(20:39) Red flags in potential franchisees(25:20) How COVID accelerated the wellness shift(36:06) Making elite health tools accessible(39:28) The power of the Lifeforce partnership(42:38) Building a brand that markets itself(49:57) What parenting taught him about leadership(53:07) Advice for young entrepreneurs(54:45) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

How do you rebuild a life when everything has fallen apart? In this powerful conversation, Marcus chats with Keegan Caldwell, whose journey reads like a testament to the human spirit rising from addiction, legal battles, and self-doubt to founding a global law firm without ever stepping foot in law school. Keegan shares the turning points that reshaped his soul, the quiet force of discipline, and how service to others anchored his new beginning. If you’ve ever wondered whether redemption is possible, this story will reignite your belief in second chances and the greatness within yourself.Dr. Keegan Caldwell is the Founder and Global Managing Partner of Caldwell, a leading international law firm. Once battling addiction and adversity, he transformed his story into one of resilience, leadership, and service. Today, he stands as a trusted advisor to global innovators, a living reminder that even the heaviest pasts can forge the brightest futures.Learn more about Keegan Caldwell:Website: https://caldwelllaw.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keegancaldwellphd/ X: https://x.com/Caldwell_IP1 Linktree: https://bit.ly/42zsyaiEpisode highlights:(3:18) Substance abuse and early struggles(6:59) Joining the Marines for structure(8:41) Post-service setbacks and legal troubles(15:50) Rock bottom moment in Michigan(22:00) 12-step recovery and rebuilding life(24:24) Returning to school at 26(28:27) Why Keegan chose a PhD(36:04) From the patent office to founding a firm(43:11) Common myths about IP law(47:36) Mentorship, fatherhood, and leadership(51:01) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What do you do when your biggest plans fall apart? In this inspiring episode, Marcus sits down with Ken Biberaj—real estate executive, civic leader, and host of Coffee with Ken—to talk about resilience, reinvention, and staying curious through setbacks. From politics to business and beyond, this episode is a reminder that showing up consistently opens unexpected doors.Ken Biberaj, a former NYC Council candidate and past chairman of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Ken blends public service values with private sector strategy—helping companies grow while staying people-focused. His work is grounded in consistency, curiosity, and a deep belief in showing up.Connect with Ken Biberaj:Website: https://coffeewithken.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/coffeewithkenbiberaj Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biberaj/Episode highlights:(3:14) Reopening the iconic Russian Tea Room(6:29) Frustrations with red tape(8:54) Harvard & public service lessons(12:29) Running for city council at 33(15:27) Lessons from losing the race(18:40) Leading the Manhattan Chamber(21:32) Turning failure into future wins(27:40) Launching Coffee With Ken(31:48) Manufacturing revolution and business evolution(41:58) Honoring his father's legacy(45:39) Lessons for the next generation(46:57) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it take to chase your dreams—and stick with them? In this special solo episode, Marcus reflects on the first 26 episodes of Scales of Success and shares the hard-earned lessons that have reshaped his mindset, work, and relationships. From defining true support to separating self-awareness from self-consciousness, he opens up with humor, honesty, and thoughtful takeaways that anyone striving for personal or professional growth will appreciate. Whether you're building something of your own or just looking for a new lens on success, this one's for you.Episode highlights:(3:06) 9 lessons from this journey(4:16) People show support in different ways(6:33) Neighborhood bar(7:23) Finding a tribe(9:34) Becoming a better listener(13:07) Accountability(14:55) Two investment stakes(17:28) Everyone has a story(19:47) Successful people: Self-awareness vs. Self-consciousness(22:14) Biographies aren't written about work-life balance(24:11) Presence, feedback, and support(25:48) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if confronting fear is the best way to find peace, purpose, and growth? In this special episode, Marcus reconnects with his longtime friend William Robertson—a painter, architect, and entrepreneur known for designing his own fire-resistant home and embracing sustainability long before it was trendy. Their friendship, like a river ride, flows naturally between ideas, challenges, and laughs.William shares what led him to fight a 19-year-old in a Muay Thai match at age 48, and how facing discomfort—whether through martial arts, fasting, or microdosing—has shaped his resilience and deepened his presence. Together, they reflect on personal growth, physical health, business leadership, and why pushing limits in any form makes life richer. This episode is both a celebration of curiosity and a call to keep evolving—on your own terms.Episode Reference: National Goju KarateWebsite: https://nationalgojukarate.com/home Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/KarateBrisbane Reach out to William Robertson:Website: https://www.designbuildlabs.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamrobertson2/ Episode highlights:(3:19) Confronting fear from Karate to Muay Thai ring(7:38) The importance of being in the moment(11:32) Detachment from past and future(14:47) Training for a Spartan race(17:53) Taking charge of health with AI and biomarkers(22:51) Fasting results: Fat, energy, and focus(28:39) Microdosing psilocybin Vs. Alcohol(31:53) Consciousness, nature, and creativity(35:45) The joy of daily rituals(39:40) A Karate sensei and French coffee lessons(41:34) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What happens when your ability to focus is the only thing keeping you alive? In today’s gripping episode, Marcus Arredondo talks with Courtney Buck, a former Army bomb technician turned global health and policy expert, whose story moves from the battlefield to boardrooms. Courtney shares what it’s like to disarm explosives under extreme pressure, why development aid is more than just charity, and how raising kids to avoid labels is his most meaningful mission yet. You’ll hear jaw-dropping stories, honest reflections, and insights that challenge how we think about risk, purpose, and public service.Courtney Buck is a U.S. Army veteran, former EOD technician, and founder of Courtney Buck Investments. After serving in Afghanistan disarming roadside bombs, he moved into roles with USAID and the CDC, working on global health and foreign policy. Now based in Florida with his wife and four kids, Courtney focuses on real estate investment and raising a family rooted in curiosity, courage, and resilience.Learn more about Courtney Buck:Website: https://www.courtneybuckinvestments.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyryanbuck/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-buck-6867736/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/courtneybuckinvestments/Episode highlights:(2:49) Who is Courtney Buck?(6:39) What USAID really does?(11:17) China’s growing influence in Africa(17:36) Fallout from USAID closure(20:56) Becoming an EOD technician(26:52) The reality of disarming bombs(31:28) Finding peace in chaos(41:19) Lessons for raising resilient kids(44:51) Inside the CDC before and during COVID(49:06) How disease spreads globally(51:18) Why U.S. response was so hard(53:58) People Vs. Public health messaging(55:47) Grace for leaders in crisis(59:02) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it take to stay calm while flipping a plane at 14 Gs? In this high-octane episode, host Marcus Arredondo connects with AJ Wilder to explore how precision in the sky shaped his mindset on the ground—from building an architecture firm to launching a foundation for young pilots. Hear how he turned setbacks into strategy, fear into focus, and a bucket-and-squeegee startup into the launchpad for bigger dreams. Whether you're leading a team or chasing your version of flight, AJ’s story will challenge how you think about pressure, purpose, and performance.AJ Wilder is the President of Wolcott Architecture, a world-ranked aerobatic pilot, and co-founder of the Figure One Foundation. With over 10,000 flight hours and eight U.S. National Aerobatic Team appearances, he brings focus, discipline, and passion to both the sky and the studio. Whether leading design projects or flying the Rumble Bee, AJ is driven by purpose—and a desire to help others rise.Get in touch with AJ Wilder:Websites: https://www.wolcottai.com/abouthttps://www.wolcottai.com/abouthttps://www.rumbleb.com/AJ Wilder’s Aerobatic Journey with Rumble Bee & Figure 1https://scalesofsuccesspodcast.notion.site/aj-wilder-s-aerobatic-journey-with-rumble-bee-and-figure-1Episode highlights:(2:49) How AJ got into flying and world competitions(11:46) G-forces and physical toll on the body(16:36) Physical and mental training(27:43) Applying flight discipline to business(32:54) Prepping for complex flight sequences(39:38) Surviving a near-fatal accident(44:25) AJ’s entrepreneurial journey begins(56:30) How Figure One Foundation took off(59:22) Legacy and purpose(1:00:24) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Is the war on drugs really about justice—or something else entirely? In this episode, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes former DEA agent Angus Forbes, who pulls back the curtain on high-stakes international drug busts, undercover operations, and the corruption that few dare to discuss. From DEA raids in Thailand to the dark realities of law enforcement politics, Angus shares stories that defy popular narratives and expose the truth behind the headlines. But his journey didn’t end with the DEA. Now, he’s using AI technology to revolutionize crime investigations—and his insights could change how we think about law enforcement forever.Angus Forbes is a former Marine and DEA agent turned AI entrepreneur. With years of experience in high-risk law enforcement operations, including global drug enforcement, he witnessed the challenges of crime investigation firsthand. After retiring, he co-founded Ethos, an AI-driven company revolutionizing law enforcement by streamlining investigations and data analysis. His work combines military precision, real-world experience, and cutting-edge technology to improve public safety. Beyond his career, his biggest motivation is ensuring a secure future for his twin sons.How to connect with Angus Forbes: Website: [email protected] Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angus-forbes-503b35102/Episode highlights:(2:11) A DEA raid in Thailand(5:27) Corruption in international drug enforcement(12:41) The harsh realities of drug smuggling(18:02) Acting on instinct Vs. The following protocol(21:31) Misconceptions about the DEA(29:22) The U.S.’s addiction to painkillers(32:50) The Naval Academy and U.S. citizenship(44:36) What could unite the U.S. again?(48:08) The birth of Ethos AI(56:44) Military discipline in the business world(1:02:01) Redefining success & family priorities(1:04:10) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Could you pitch investors for millions while caring for a newborn? In today’s episode, host Marcus Arredondo chats with Oriana Papin-Zoghbi, who shares her incredible journey of building a life-saving biotech company while navigating pregnancy, fundraising, and the chaos of startup life. From pitching investors with a newborn to securing millions in funding, she opens up about the challenges, sacrifices, and lessons learned. Oriana also reveals the harsh realities of raising capital in a changing market, the struggles of scaling a team, and why ovarian cancer detection is overdue for innovation. If you’ve ever felt stretched between your ambitions and personal life, this conversation will leave you inspired and thinking differently about resilience, leadership, and making bold moves.Oriana Papin-Zoghbi is the CEO and Co-Founder of AOA Dx, leading the charge in early ovarian cancer detection. With a background in global healthcare innovation, she has launched life-saving diagnostics in maternal-fetal medicine, oncology, and infectious diseases. Oriana successfully raised millions while balancing new motherhood, proving resilience is key in both startups and life. Recognized as a Top 100 Female Founder by Inc., she continues to drive groundbreaking advancements in women’s health.Find out more about Oriana Papin-Zoghbi: Website: https://aoadx.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orianazh/Episode highlights:(2:03) Startup while pregnant, fundraising with newborn(5:57) Founder and Mom challenges(11:10) Creating a maternity transition plan(14:30) Y Combinator: Preparing for a high-stakes pitch(19:24) Lessons from raising capital(22:30) Fundraising in 2021 Vs. 2023(27:10) Scaling a startup and hiring lessons(30:08) AOA Dx’s mission: Early detection of ovarian cancer(34:56) Challenges in healthcare innovation(38:22) Strong boards, smart hires: Lessons in leadership(44:08) How Oriana’s multicultural background shaped her resilience(47:52) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if one experience could unlock your true self? In this episode, host Marcus Arredondo jives with attorney and entrepreneur Ricky Patel, who shares his life-changing journey with ayahuasca. Once a skeptic, Ricky took the plunge after seeing a friend’s transformation—what followed shattered his doubts and reshaped his view on life, relationships, and purpose. He shares how this ancient practice has influenced his role as a father, businessman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Whether you’re curious about plant medicine’s therapeutic potential or fascinated by personal evolution stories, this episode challenges you to consider.Ricky K. Patel is an attorney, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for his work in high-stakes litigation and community impact. As Of Counsel at Akerman LLP, he has represented thousands of clients, including municipalities affected by the BP oil spill and NFL player Dalvin Cook. Beyond law, he founded the ITS4THEKIDS Foundation, providing resources to needy children, and established an orphanage in Haiti. He serves on the boards of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation and St. Thomas University School of Law. A passionate advocate for giving back, Ricky’s work blends business, law, and philanthropy to create lasting change.Learn more about Ricky Patel: Website: https://rickykpatel.com/ Email: [email protected] Linktree: https://linktr.ee/miamiesq Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miamiesq/ Episode highlights:(3:40) The impact of ayahuasca on personal relationships(17:07) Changes in parenting, business, and self-awareness(30:41) The call to ayahuasca: Ricky’s decision to go(37:01) The unexpected path to high-profile legal cases(47:16) Turning a challenge into a strategic advantage(1:06:44) Boundaries, business, and ‘Mudita.’(1:19:06) The immigrant mindset: Lessons learned about family and relationships(1:32:15) Failure, growth, and finding your path(1:42:15) From idea to invention, NFL debates & a courtroom victory(1:57:19) Giving with purpose: How Ricky chooses causes that matter(2:07:55) Puerto Rico: Home, heart, and insurance reform(2:17:13) Ricky’s routine: Health, balance & true success(2:22:53) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Why do some dogs become aggressive while others stay calm? Is it training or something more profound? In today’s episode, host Marcus Arredondo talks with dog rehabilitator Brandon Fouché, who challenges common beliefs about dog behavior. Brandon shares how a childhood dog attack shaped his views, why traditional training often fails, and how human fear affects pets. Together, they explore leadership, instinct, and the lessons nature teaches through wolves, horses, and dogs. Whether you’re a dog owner or just curious, this episode will change how you see your pet.Brandon Fouché is a canine behavior specialist who helps aggressive and misunderstood dogs find balance. His Fouché Way focuses on instinct, emotion, and pack dynamics—moving beyond obedience training. For nearly 30 years, he’s rehabilitated “dead dogs walking” at his Los Angeles center, proving no dog is beyond help. Through his “Brandon Speaks Dog” series and consultations, he teaches owners to lead with confidence, keeping more dogs out of shelters and in loving homes.Reach out to Brandon Fouché:Website: https://www.brandonfouche.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FoucheWay Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foucheway/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandonFouche Episode highlights:(0:00) Intro(1:33) Nature Vs. Nurture in dog aggression(8:42) The truth about dog training(10:36) Dogs Vs. Humans: Emotional differences(12:41) Why aggression is a natural form of communication(16:43) They say what they don’t like(20:05) How human fears create aggressive dogs(24:13) Common training mistakes(29:42) We are all self-made(33:09) Genetic and learned behaviors(37:41) Dominance hierarchy(47:34) The myth of training: What actually works(53:43) Brandon’s work with wolves and horses(1:03:56) Teaching people, not just dogs(1:13:19) Embracing truth and living in the moment(1:17:06) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What does it take to stay honest in politics? In this episode of the Scale of Success Podcast, host Marcus Arredondo connects with former Congressman Charlie Gonzalez about how he pulls back the curtain on the hidden costs of public service, the influence of big money in politics, and how fear and misinformation fuel division today. He shares unfiltered stories about family legacy, why political integrity is so rare, and what everyday citizens can do to spot false narratives and make informed decisions. Whether you’re passionate about politics or want to know how it all works behind the scenes, this episode will challenge your thoughts about leadership, media, and democracy.Charles A. “Charlie” Gonzalez, licensed in 1972, practiced law until 1982 before serving as a judge in County Court No. 2 (1982-1987) and the 57th State Judicial District Court (1988-1997), where he improved efficiency in civil and domestic violence cases. Elected to Congress in 1998, he served until 2013, holding key roles on Financial Services, Energy and Commerce, Judiciary, and Homeland Security committees. He chaired the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Hispanic Caucus Institute, and a task force on Florida’s District 13 election results.Get in touch with Charlie Gonzalez:Website: https://bit.ly/3Qpxzev X: https://x.com/TX20CharlieG Phone: 210-277-3606Episode highlights:(1:39) Who is Congressman Charlie Gonzalez? (2:48) Family Legacy & escaping the Mexican Revolution(7:38) Henry B. Gonzalez’s political impact(12:51) A legacy of action & integrity in politics(17:42) The financial reality of public service(21:36) The pressure of following a political icon(32:13) The rise of political tribalism & division(42:42) How voters can identify truth in media(50:31) Why unity in America feels harder to achieve(55:06) Citizens United & the influence of money in politics(1:03:02) Advice for staying engaged later in life(1:06:21) America’s future & civic responsibility(1:08:08) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What would you do if you were pushed out of the company you built? In today’s episode, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes Ted Eveleth, a serial entrepreneur who has raised millions, faced gut-wrenching setbacks, and still chooses to build. He shares the raw reality of getting ousted from his startup, the risks of raising money from friends and family, and why rejection is part of the game. Now, as CEO of AvantGuard, he’s leading a breakthrough in antimicrobial technology that could change medicine as we know it. If you’ve ever wondered what keeps an entrepreneur coming back despite failure, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Ted Eveleth is an experienced entrepreneur who has been CEO, COO, CFO, and Chairman in companies covering various technologies, including medical devices, life science molecular tools, waste heat to energy conversion, new materials, and MEMS devices. Ted received a three-year BA in Economics Phi Beta Kappa from Union College and an MBA from the Johnson School at Cornell University.Connect with Ted Eveleth:Website: https://www.avantguardinc.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avantguardinc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avantguard-inc/ Episode highlights:(2:05) Losing his CEO role & lessons learned(7:20) Why entrepreneurs keep coming back(9:18) The pain of investor behavior, rejection, and fundraising strategies(13:19) AvantGuard’s origins and revolutionary antimicrobial technology(19:30) How COVID shaped the company’s growth(22:04) The value of grant funding Vs. Investor capital(26:50) Leveraging non-dilutive funding and technology(29:01) Intellectual property and the importance of patents(31:25) The science behind long-lasting antiseptics(41:41) Strategic partnerships & market positioning(43:10) Lessons learned from waste-to-energy and past ventures(46:14) How to push forward when everything seems to fail(48:05) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if your biggest failure became the reason for your greatest success? In this Scale of Success Podcast episode, host Marcus Arredondo converses with Actor-turned-entrepreneur Cameron Moulène. He opens up about the moment that changed everything—becoming a single dad, battling addiction, and finding purpose beyond Hollywood. Cameron reveals how those struggles led him to create AugiHealth, a game-changing platform that puts medical data back in the hands of patients. We also unpack the hard truths of entrepreneurship, the chaos of crypto, and the lessons he took from acting into business.Cameron Moulène is a French-American actor, entrepreneur, and founder of AugiHealth. Known for his roles in Happyland, Foursome, and A Teacher, he later transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching Non-Fungible Films and multiple startups. A dedicated single father and advocate for sobriety and innovation, Cameron’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention.Learn more about Cameron Moulène:Website: https://www.augihealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-moulene-78a027126/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cameronmoulene/ X: https://x.com/cameronmouleneEpisode highlights:(2:20) Becoming a single father and the challenges of sobriety(6:57) How sobriety influences business and fatherhood(9:36) The inspiration behind AugiHealth and fixing healthcare(14:36) Challenges in fixing a broken healthcare system(17:49) Fostering deeper bonds and resilience(24:05) Cameron’s acting career, Hollywood experiences, and rejection(30:45) Lessons from failure and personal growth(37:17) The power of networking in acting and business(40:53) Non-Fungible Films, Web3, and insights on crypto space(51:25) The vision for AugiHealth and improving healthcare(53:33) Cameron’s daily routine and mind diet(56:23) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Is Mars our next home—or just a sci-fi fantasy? In today’s episode, host Marcus Arredondo chats with Zach Weinersmith, co-author of A City on Mars, who breaks down the real challenges of space colonization, from floating toilets to international law. He also shares his journey as a creator, navigating social media shifts, monetizing art, and balancing humor with deep research. If you think space travel is just around the corner, this episode might change your mind.Zach Weinersmith is a celebrated cartoonist, author, and science communicator best known for his webcomic Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal (SMBC), which combines sharp humor with deep intellectual themes. He has co-authored bestselling books like Soonish and A City on Mars alongside his wife, Kelly Weinersmith, blending rigorous research with wit. His latest children’s book, Bea Wolf, reimagines Beowulf with a fresh, comedic twist. With a passion for making complex ideas accessible, Zach’s work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and Forbes. He lives in Charlottesville, Virginia, with his wife and two children.Link up with Zach Weinersmith:Website: https://www.smbc-comics.com/ X: https://x.com/zachweiner?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smbccomics/?hl=enBooks by Zach Weinersmith:A City on Mars (with Kelly Weinersmith) - https://www.acityonmars.com/Soonish (with Kelly Weinersmith) - https://amzn.to/4jzLL1ZBea Wolf (children’s graphic novel) - https://amzn.to/3Ej3dYiEpisode highlights:(2:35) The evolution of social media for creators(7:08) Building a loyal audience and evolving over time(14:06) Monetizing art in a changing landscape(16:44) Zach’s writing and drawing routine(26:01) Challenges and humor in space colonization(32:16) Researching and writing A City on Mars with Kelly(40:55) Assessing the feasibility of space settlement(46:26) Impact of satellite pollution on Earth(50:46) Parenting philosophies and nature Vs. Nurture(56:37) What’s next for Zach Weinersmith?(57:49) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

What if chasing success is draining your energy and stealing your joy? In this Scale of Success Podcast episode, host Marcus Arredondo connects with Melissa Mora, founder of Peak RN, who shares her journey from travel nursing to building a thriving coaching platform for nurses. She discusses burnout, redefining success, and embracing a balanced, meaningful life. Melissa offers practical tips for nurses and caregivers who feel stuck in the grind and want to reclaim their purpose. Discover how to break free from societal norms, manage stress, and create a life that aligns with your values.Melissa Mora, MSN, RNC-OB, founded Peak RN, LLC, a company focused on professional nursing development. With over seven years of experience in obstetrics, gynecology, and neonatal care, Melissa combines her clinical expertise with a strong business leadership, project management, and education background. She began her nursing career at the University Health System in San Antonio, TX, where she earned multiple awards and served as a leader in evidence-based practice and maternal transport education. Melissa’s passion for empowering nurses led her to create Peak RN, where she supports their growth and well-being.Reach out to Melissa Mora:Website: https://www.peakrn.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peak-rn-llc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peakrn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peakrn/Episode highlights:(1:46) Pursuing freedom, adventure, and a new vision for life(4:57) Redefining success: Melissa’s journey(9:44) Burnout and the birth of Peak RN(14:28) Connecting with emotions, self, and re-parenting(21:23)  Challenges and systemic issues in healthcare(32:04) Coaching framework and tiny changes(36:25) Surprises and lessons in coaching(37:36) Entrepreneurial advice and future vision(42:25) The future vision for Peak RN(44:06) Signs of burnout to watch for(47:42) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.

Have you ever wondered how filmmakers bring bold ideas to life while staying grounded in their values? In today’s episode, host Marcus Arredondo welcomes Samantha Nisenboim to discuss producing blockbuster hits like Renfield, working with A-list talent, and taking creative risks. Hear how she turned a childhood dream into reality, rediscovered her love for storytelling, and used meditation and self-reflection to stay balanced. Samantha’s candid insights will inspire you to embrace failure, follow your instincts, and create space for what truly matters.Samantha Nisenboim is a film producer known for her work on high-stakes live-action and animation projects with A-list talent. A USC film school graduate, she honed her skills at Warner Bros., contributing to over 20 films, before co-founding a production company with director Chris McKay. Now producing independently, Samantha recently completed her film TOW and debuted as a writer-director with her short movie Something Blue.Connect with Samantha Nisenboim:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-nisenboim-361b27b/Episode highlights:(1:27) The meaning behind “Renfield.”(5:26) What makes a script stay with you(10:51) Building strong creative partnerships and the role of a producer(18:14) Taking significant risks early in a career(21:17) Regaining confidence after setbacks(26:32) Navigating personal growth and success(31:20) Why failure leads to success(34:28) Becoming a better listener(36:54) Filmmaking challenges and solutions(42:16) Embracing adaptability and creative confidence(45:34) Creating the short film “Something Blue”(53:46) Exploring inspiration and self-discovery(55:47) Meditation and mindfulness practices(59:29) OutroConnect with Marcus Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-arredondo/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/cus Scales of Success Website: scalesofsuccesspodcast.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/scalesofsuccess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scalesofsuccesspod/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scalesofsuccess Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ScalesofSuccess —-- Leave a Review If you enjoyed listening to the podcast, we’d love for you to leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help others discover the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scales-of-success-podcast/id1773864140 Get in Touch You can also Tweet @cus with any feedback, ideas or thoughts about the lessons you’ve learnt from the episodes and we can thank you personally for tuning in.