Strap on your Boots

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I chat with Mitch McGinley, an Exit Planning Advisor and Business Broker specializing in boutique fitness, health, and wellness businesses. Mitch shares three simple steps to plan your ideal business exit — whether you’re looking to sell in five months or five years. We break down what buyers are really looking for, how to avoid costly mistakes, and why your exit strategy should start long before you’re ready to walk away. If you want to cash out smart and maximize your business’s value, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I talk to $200K/month sales strategist Austin Medlin about why most coaches don’t actually need more leads — they need to fix how they’re closing. Austin shares the framework that’s helped over 500 coaches boost their close rates to 60–90% and scale to $50K–$100K months without relying on more ads or complicated funnels. We break down the real reason calls aren’t converting, how to train confident closers, and what a truly scalable sales system looks like. If you’re a coach or consultant with calls booked but cash not flowing, this episode is your roadmap to stronger results.

In this episode of Strap on Your Boots, I break down the reality behind the AI app-building boom and why so many founders are still struggling to get traction. While tools like Claude, Cursor, and modern cloud platforms have made it faster than ever to build apps, the real challenge hasn’t gone away — it’s shifted. I share my experience building apps over the past 30 years, how development has evolved, and why “vibe coding” isn’t a business model. We dive into the real bottleneck most people ignore: marketing, distribution, and user acquisition. If you’re building an app in today’s AI-driven world, this episode will change how you think about what actually matters.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with award-winning healthcare CEO Dr. Julie Wilson about how entrepreneurs can scale a service-based business without burning out their teams or losing their core values. Julie shares how she grew Terra Nova Medical Clinics from a single practice into a 30-location healthcare network, all while maintaining quality, culture, and purpose in one of the hardest industries to scale. We discuss values-based leadership, smart growth systems, and how technology and delegation can help founders grow sustainably while staying human.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with leading CEO advisor Jason Baumgarten about the most common ways CEOs and founders fail — and how entrepreneurs can avoid those traps early. Drawing from years of advising top executives, Jason breaks down leadership blind spots, hiring mistakes, and scaling challenges that quietly derail companies. We discuss how teams can actually make leaders better, what founders misunderstand about growth, and the decisions that separate effective CEOs from struggling ones. If you’re building, scaling, or leading a company, this episode will help you recognize failure patterns before they cost you everything.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, Capital Futurist Reagan Rodriguez pulls back the curtain on the world of private capital networks and reveals how high-trust dealmakers acquire and scale businesses off the radar. As founder of the 5th Avenue Underground Club, Reagan shares how zero-down acquisitions work, why traditional funding often fails entrepreneurs, and how to tap into the hidden economy of private deal flow. If you’re looking for alternative ways to fund and grow your business, this episode is your inside pass.

 In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Alternative Capital Architect Anthony DeBenedictis, Managing Partner at Avanza Capital Holdings, about how entrepreneurs can access and leverage private credit to fund and scale their businesses. Anthony explains how non-traditional capital sources can outperform traditional loans or equity funding, offering more flexibility, liquidity, and control. We discuss how to structure deals, manage risk, and build trust with private lenders, while avoiding the financial pitfalls that can cripple growing companies. If you’re ready to raise smart money and use it to grow sustainably, this episode will show you how. 

In this episode of Future Tech, I speak with former NASA Flight Director and Johnson Space Center Associate Director Milt Heflin about the real engine behind space exploration — the thousands of engineers, contractors, and problem-solvers working behind the scenes. From Apollo recovery missions to the historic Hubble Space Telescope repair, Milt shares what it was like leading teams responsible for some of NASA’s most complex missions. We discuss how teams prepare for the unknown, how mission control solves problems in real time, and why trust, preparation, and teamwork were the true secrets behind NASA’s greatest successes. This episode is a masterclass in leadership and execution from one of the people who helped guide humanity’s most ambitious missions. 

In this episode of Zero to CEO, business coach Edward Francis unpacks the deeper skills entrepreneurs need to lead with clarity, adapt under pressure, and grow sustainably. From cultivating authenticity and mindfulness to harnessing neuroplasticity and equanimity, Edward shares how founders can strengthen both mindset and execution. If you want to train your brain like a muscle and turn stress into strategy, this episode is your blueprint for resilient, purpose-driven leadership.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, entrepreneur and author Christopher Volk reveals why the key to wealth isn't just a high salary — it's ownership. Learn how becoming business rich by holding equity in the company you build or work for can dramatically increase your chances of becoming a multimillionaire. Christopher breaks down shareholder return hurdles, the five return components of wealth-building businesses, and the financial framework that sets high-growth companies apart. Whether you're a founder or an ambitious team member, this episode delivers a roadmap to financial freedom through ownership.

Dr. Lawrence Kuznetz was on console during Apollo 11, helped build Space Shuttle Columbia, managed human life sciences experiments aboard the International Space Station, and is now developing next generation spacesuit technology for Mars. In this episode of Future Tech, we explore what it was like inside Mission Control during the moon landing, the technical and cultural challenges of building the Space Shuttle, the hard lessons learned from NASA’s triumphs and tragedies, and what it will truly take for humans to survive on Mars. Dr. Kuznetz shares insights on risk tolerance, Cold War urgency, reusable spacecraft, human physiology in space, and why innovation in life support systems may determine humanity’s future beyond Earth.Dr. Kuznetz is also featured in the upcoming documentary Before the Moon.

In this powerful episode of Zero to CEO, Rahman Popal, founder of the Law Firm for Tenant Rights, dives deep into the journey of building a social justice-centered legal practice. Learn how Rahman champions tenant rights, serves underserved communities, and maintains profitability while leading with purpose. Discover the challenges of growing a mission-driven firm, strategies for community trust-building, and practical advice for entrepreneurs and advocates who want to lead with impact. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with real-world insights for change-makers.

In this episode of Future Tech, I sit down with Blue Origin space explorer Jason Stansell, crew member of Mission NS-37, to break down what spaceflight really teaches you about preparation, risk, teamwork, and perspective. Jason shares what it’s like training for space, flying above Earth, and returning with a completely different view of fear, execution, and community. We talk about why spaceflight is not about thrill-seeking, how extreme preparation mirrors entrepreneurship, and what founders can learn from operating in environments where mistakes are not an option. This conversation goes far beyond space — it’s about discipline, humility, and building something bigger than yourself.Jason is a featured speaker in the upcoming NASA documentary Before the Moon.

Rediscover the power of authentic connection in this episode of Zero to CEO with Tim Townsend. With 30+ years in leadership and wealth management, Tim shares how putting people first isn’t just the right thing — it’s a winning business strategy. Learn how to balance tech with human service, build standout client experiences, and lead with empathy in a world full of automation. If you’re tired of “your call is important to us,” this is your reset button.

Unlock real ROI with predictive AI in this episode of Future Tech featuring Pecan AI CEO Zohar Bronfman. While GenAI dominates headlines, Zohar breaks down how predictive models are quietly transforming decision-making and operations across industries. From data democratization to actionable use cases, this episode is a must-listen for leaders ready to use AI to solve real business problems — not just chase trends.

In this episode of Future Tech, NASA Astronaut Jerry Ross reflects on a lifetime spent inside America’s space program — from engineering classrooms to seven missions aboard the Space Shuttle. Ross shares what it really took to prepare humans for space: relentless training, systems thinking, and the quiet work of thousands of people who never wore flight suits. From EVA tool design and ISS assembly to ground teams solving problems in real time, this conversation reveals how human spaceflight has always depended on preparation, redundancy, and trust.Jerry is the narrator of the upcoming documentary Before the Moon, which tells the story of how we learned to survive flight before leaving Earth — and Jerry Ross reminds us that space was never conquered by individuals, but by teams.

Make your startup investor-ready with fractional CFO Armine Alajian in this episode of Zero to CEO. Discover the financial foundations every startup needs to attract funding, pass due diligence, and scale with confidence. Armine shares how clean books, KPI tracking, and smart forecasting can help founders avoid costly mistakes and secure better deals from investors.

Build a global business from scratch with executive search expert Jean Callahan in this episode of Zero to CEO. Learn how to scale across borders by hiring the right leadership, avoiding costly talent mistakes, and thinking globally from day one. Jean shares how she built Latin America Executive Search from the ground up and what every founder needs to know about identifying growth-driving leaders in a competitive market.

Build a legacy that lasts with attorney Casey Conklin in this episode of Zero to CEO. Discover how to protect your business and family with smart legal structures, estate planning, and generational wealth strategies. Casey breaks down the role of trusts, life insurance, and exit planning to help you reduce liability and secure long-term success. Whether you’re starting or scaling, this is your guide to building wealth that lives on.

In this episode of Future Tech, filmmaker Jason Sherman speaks with Al Holland, NASA’s longtime senior operational psychologist, about the human systems behind spaceflight. Holland helped shape how astronauts are selected, trained, and supported for long-duration missions, including the International Space Station and future missions to Mars. Drawing from decades of experience at NASA, Holland discusses how astronauts were selected and trained for long-duration missions, why teamwork and self-regulation matter as much as technical skill, and how isolation, sleep disruption, and separation from family quietly shape performance in space. He also reflects on early astronaut training at places like the Johnsville Centrifuge and how lessons from Cold War research continue to influence modern missions to the International Space Station and future journeys to Mars. This conversation is part of the ongoing research and storytelling behind the documentary “Before the Moon”, which explores the hidden places, people, and systems that made human spaceflight possible.

Save hours every week with Florida attorney and entrepreneur Jane Muir in this episode of Zero to CEO. Learn how Jane used automation to transform her law firm into a lean, highly productive operation. From client scheduling to task management, she breaks down the exact tools and workflows that helped her cut overhead and boost accuracy — without losing the human touch. Perfect for anyone in a service-based business looking to scale smarter.

Unlock calm, confident business growth with Luisa Molano in this episode of Zero to CEO. Discover how your nervous system shapes your decisions, creativity, and revenue — and what happens when you shift from survival mode to regulation. Luisa shares tools and insights that helped her build success from a grounded place, not adrenaline. If overwhelm is your norm, this episode offers your roadmap to clarity and resilience.

Discover how a teacher built a thriving ghostwriting business by writing and editing over 200+ books for clients while maintaining authenticity in an AI-saturated market. Danielle Hutchinson reveals the real strategies behind scaling from side hustle to Chief Creative Officer (CCO), including her unique client process, how she humanizes AI-generated content, and why most authors fail at marketing their books. This episode cuts through the typical success guru nonsense to show you practical steps for building a sustainable writing business that generates consistent income.

Live longer and better with longevity visionary Dr. Gregory Burzynski in this episode of Zero to CEO. Discover how personalized, preventive medicine is replacing the outdated sick-care model through AI, genetic testing, and wearable technology. Dr. Burzynski shares how early detection, healthspan optimization, and daily habits can radically improve your future—today. From clinical insights to practical takeaways, this episode offers a roadmap to proactive healthcare and longer vitality.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with leading productivity strategist Dan Mintz about how to achieve more in 12 weeks than most people do in 12 months. Dan breaks down the science-backed 12-Week Breakthrough system that integrates proven productivity principles into one powerful execution framework. Learn why short cycles beat annual planning, how to connect your vision to action, and the tools you need to drive consistent progress. Whether you’re a founder, solopreneur, or team leader, this episode will change the way you think about time, focus, and results.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I chat with background-check pioneer Steven Ward, founder of GuardianBGI, about how he transformed a solo PI gig into a national investigative firm reshaping law enforcement hiring. Steven reveals what really goes on behind the scenes of police background checks, how outdated systems can put entire communities at risk, and why new technology is essential for modern screening. We also dive into how GuardianBGI scaled in a heavily regulated industry and the startup lessons Steven learned along the way.

While many attorneys chase billable hours and bottom lines, Ryan Schwartz takes a different approach: making every client feel like they truly matter. In this episode, Ryan breaks down how putting people before profits has been the cornerstone of his growing law practice. You’ll learn how he connects with clients on a human level, builds trust in tough situations, and uses community-based relationships to thrive as a legal entrepreneur. If you’re in a service-based business and want to stand out, this episode will show you why empathy and customer service are the ultimate differentiators.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Florida employment lawyer Alberto Naranjo, founder of FloridaEmploymentLaw911.com, about the legal pitfalls that entrepreneurs and business owners often overlook. From casual hiring and wrongful termination to wage law violations and EEOC claims, Alberto breaks down the most common mistakes that can lead to costly lawsuits — or even personal liability. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or rapidly scaling a team, this conversation will help you avoid legal landmines and protect your business.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with real estate investor, CPA, and founder of Harvard Grace Capital, Stewart Heath. We dive into how passive real estate investing can help build long-term wealth — even during uncertain economic times. Stewart shares the strategic principles his firm uses to create consistent returns, why focusing on cash flow is more powerful than chasing capital gains, and how to avoid costly mistakes in syndications. Whether you’re a founder seeking diversification or a cautious investor, Stewart lays out a clear path to generating stable income and maximizing tax advantages — without the hassle of managing properties.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I sit down with 38-year Wall Street veteran and tech pioneer Eddie Z to uncover the truth about trading technology. From surviving market crashes to building elite trading setups, Eddie shares why most traders are losing money before they even make a trade — because of their tech. We dig into the gear that actually matters, why mindset trumps speed, and how to future-proof your trading setup for real profit. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trader, this episode delivers the no-BS trading tech wisdom you need.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Anya Cheng, founder of AI fashion startup Taelor and former product leader at Meta, eBay, and Target. Anya shares her journey from Silicon Valley insider to scrappy startup founder, revealing how she scaled Taelor with zero marketing budget, secured funding from top VCs, and broke barriers as a female immigrant entrepreneur. We dive into the AI behind personalized fashion, lessons from tech giants, and what it takes to build a fast-growing brand on a shoestring. This episode is a must-listen for founders, fashion innovators, and anyone chasing startup success.Anya Cheng is the Founder and CEO of Taelor, a leading men's clothing subscription service that provides personal styling and curated rentals, powered by AI. A Girls in Tech 40 Under 40 honoree, she previously led eCommerce and digital innovation teams at Meta, eBay, Target, and McDonald's. Taelor’s mission is to help people dress up to achieve their goals—whether it's for a job interview, date night, or big presentation—because looking good shouldn’t be a barrier to success.Experience effortless style with rental and personal styling services:Taelor: Get 25% OFF your first month of men's clothing subscription.Use code: PODCAST25Sign up at: https://taelor.style/pages/membershipArmoire: Get 50% OFF your first month of women's clothing subscription.Use code: ArmoirexTaelorSign up at: https://www.armoire.style/refer/ArmoirexTaelorGive the gift of time, convenience, and effortless style:Taelor Gift Cards: Get 10% OFFUse code: PODCASTGIFTPurchase at: https://taelor.style/products/menswear-rental-gift-card

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I talk with Lazar Jovanovic, creator of the 50in50 Challenge, about how AI is revolutionizing the way we build software and products. Lazar introduces “Vibe Coding” — his method for building anything with AI in just 48 hours, even if you don’t have a tech background. Learn how AI tools can help you design, debug, and launch your ideas faster than ever before, and discover why the future of engineering is open to everyone with creativity and a problem to solve.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I chat with serial entrepreneur, author, and founder Chanel Martin about her journey from personal pain to patented innovation in the beauty space. Chanel shares how she turned her experience into an AI-powered haircare solution and launched Her Beauty Regimen — a platform designed to uplift indie beauty brands through data, trust, and community. If you’ve ever wondered how to protect your ideas, stand out in a saturated market, and scale with purpose, this episode is packed with real advice and bold inspiration.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Erik Hatterscheidt, founder of the Freshline Club, the world’s only global motorcycle expedition club for entrepreneurial men. Erik shares why high-performers crave danger and how raw adventure, discomfort, and brotherhood forge elite leaders. From jungle expeditions to humanitarian missions, we explore how breaking out of “comfortable success” can spark transformation, build legacy, and reignite purpose. If you’re ready to reclaim your edge and lead with impact, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Reach out on LinkedIn for $1000 off a crucible expedition in Guatemala!

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I chat with Points Strategy Consultant Julia Menez about how to turn your everyday spending into luxury travel. Julia shares how business owners and high-income earners can optimize credit card rewards to save up to 90% on business class flights and 5-star hotels. We break down the biggest mistakes people make, how to choose the right credit cards, and the true value of travel hacking. If you’re ready to stop leaving money on the table and start flying in style, this episode is your passport to smarter rewards.IG: geobreezetravel DM: podcast2025

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Anita Mar, founder and CEO of Trademark Angel, about why trademarks are essential for Amazon and e-commerce sellers. With over 6,900 successful trademark filings, Anita explains how protecting your brand not only stops counterfeiters and copycats but also opens the door to new revenue streams. We dive into common IP mistakes, how to secure your trademark affordably, and why now is the time to safeguard your business in the digital marketplace.

Step inside Mission Control with Gene Kranz in this exclusive episode of Future Tech. From Mercury, Gemini, to Apollo 11 through Apollo 13 and beyond, Kranz shares the real stories behind NASA’s most defining missions, and the leadership lessons that still hold true today. Discover why “failure is not an option” and being “tough and competent” were more than catchphrases. Find out how places like Warminster’s centrifuge helped prepare astronauts, and why the Apollo legacy must be preserved. This is history, leadership, and inspiration rolled into one unforgettable conversation.This interview was done in preparation for the upcoming NASA documentary Before the Moon — check it out at https://beforethemoonfilm.com

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Yesit Campo, an experienced valued professional, about how tax planning can drive business growth. We explore how smart strategies around deductions, credits, and exemptions can reduce tax liability and free up resources to invest back into your business. Whether you’re running a startup or scaling a company, this episode breaks down how tax planning is more than just a seasonal task, it’s a growth strategy. Learn how to expand your budget, reinvest your savings, and build lasting financial strength.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I sit down with Edward Cohn, a successful advocate and negotiator, to talk about what it really takes to be a voice for those who need it most. As one of Tucson’s top criminal defense attorneys, Edward shares the essential qualities that define a powerful advocate — like authentic empathy, trust-building, and relentless commitment. If you’re curious about what separates good lawyers from great ones, or if you want to learn how to advocate more effectively in your own life or business, this episode delivers insights straight from the courtroom to your earbuds.

In this very special episode of Future Tech, I speak with former NASA astronaut, fighter pilot, engineer, and professor Terry J. Hart about his extraordinary journey from the Air Force and Bell Labs to piloting the Space Shuttle Challenger on the first-ever satellite repair mission. We dive into his role operating the Canadarm to capture and repair the Solar Max satellite, the intense training that prepared him for high-stakes moments in space, and the lessons he brought back to Earth about engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure. Terry also shares how his experiences now fuel his work mentoring the next generation of aerospace innovators at Lehigh University, offering rare insight into the people and preparation behind historic space missions.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with tech pioneer Nandan Nayampally, CCO of Baya Systems, about how next-generation semiconductor innovations are advancing intelligent computing. We discuss the critical role of hyper-efficient data movement in unlocking AI’s full potential, the shift beyond Moore’s Law through chiplet design, and how software-defined architectures are revolutionizing performance and speed-to-market. Nandan also dives into how these breakthroughs are accelerating progress in automotive and infrastructure AI, offering a powerful look at the future of intelligent systems.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with marketing intelligence expert Joshua Lauer about how business leaders can turn their marketing data from a confusing mess into a growth machine. With experience transforming data for 100+ clients and generating over $500K in revenue within two years, Joshua shares the biggest analytics mistakes marketers make—especially with GA4—and how to avoid them. Learn how to ditch vanity metrics, automate reporting, and build a marketing data warehouse that drives smarter, faster decisions. If you’re tired of guessing and ready to scale with clarity, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak to Bobby Goodman, CEO of Mulework, about how businesses can unlock smarter growth with customized strategies that put people and performance first. Bobby shares how to identify critical gaps, align strategy with execution, and avoid the trap of following flashy trends. We dive into why innovation and customer-centric thinking are essential for long-term success, and when bringing in a consultant can create real impact. If you're ready to build a sustainable growth blueprint, this episode lays the foundation.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I chat with serial entrepreneur and futurist Benjamin Talin about why the old ways of running businesses — and even the consulting industry — are due for a major disruption. Benjamin shares how data-driven insights are transforming management by helping leaders find hidden gaps, prioritize the right levers for growth, and drive impact with limited time and resources. If you’re tired of gut-based decisions and ready to future-proof your company with smart strategy, this episode delivers the blueprint.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with Trading Lifestyle Leader Troy Noonan, also known as the Backpack Trader, about building a $10K/month trading business in just 30 minutes a day. Troy shares how he developed a simple and repeatable system that helps professionals generate consistent income without quitting their day jobs or watching charts all day. From busting trading myths to revealing real student success stories, this episode is packed with insights for anyone who wants to build financial freedom through smart, stress-free trading.Get your quick start trading boot camp worth $1,000 for 90% off by texting 775–204–7717

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with visionary DeFi innovator Martin Froehler, founder and CEO of Morpher, a blockchain-based trading platform revolutionizing how people invest. Martin shares how his background as a hedge fund quant inspired him to break the barriers of traditional finance by creating a system where users can trade stocks, crypto, and more 24/7 with zero fees and no middlemen. We dive into how Morpher is making financial markets accessible to anyone, anywhere in the world, and what this means for the future of investing, decentralization, and financial freedom.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak to SME Funding Champion Ciaran Burke, COO and Co-Founder of Swoop, about how his fintech platform has transformed access to capital for over 250,000 businesses. Ciaran shares how Swoop helped unlock more than $2 billion in funding, and explains the biggest mistakes founders make when raising capital, what alternative funding really looks like, and why traditional banks are failing small businesses. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling fast, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make smarter funding decisions and grow with confidence.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak to founder and entrepreneur Tim Dwyer about how to unlock faster, more sustainable business growth by aligning with the natural rhythms of your company. Tim reveals the key phases every business goes through and why understanding your current growth cycle is critical to avoiding burnout, scaling too soon, or stalling altogether. He shares the framework behind 6x growth without hustle culture, how to use emotional and spiritual intelligence to build long-term impact, and why building legacy isn’t about what you leave behind — but what you build with intention today.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak to change agent and coach Evan Unger about how meetings can either make or break your startup’s culture. Evan reveals how most meetings are shockingly inefficient and how that wasted time impacts leadership, productivity, and team morale. He shares practical tools to transform your meetings from painful time-sinks into high-performing decision-making engines. Whether you’re leading a remote team or building your startup’s culture from scratch, this episode gives you the strategies to make every meeting count.

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with attorney and tech law expert Tony Smith about the critical intersection of blockchain law, intellectual property, and startup compliance. Tony shares how entrepreneurs can navigate the fast-changing legal landscape of emerging technologies, offering insight into real-world blockchain regulations, startup compliance best practices, and the protection of valuable IP assets. With years of experience helping businesses tackle legal challenges head-on, Tony unpacks the legal essentials every founder and innovator needs to know to stay compliant, protect their creations, and thrive in the digital economy. This episode is essential listening for anyone building or investing in tech-forward ventures.