The MaxLife Podcast with Ben Laws

Most people think money is the answer. Make more of it. Manage it better. Build toward the exit. And eventually… life works.But what if money isn’t the solution? What if it’s just the amplifier?In this MaxLife compilation, Ben brings together three powerful conversations that go far beyond traditional financial thinking.Jesse Mecham challenges the idea that money is just a tool—and reveals how it actually represents your time, energy, and life… and why misalignment in spending creates stress, no matter how much you earn.Garrett Gunderson opens up about people pleasing, truth, and integrity—and the internal cost of success when you’re not fully aligned with who you are.Alex Bean shares the real story behind building a billion-dollar company—unpacking the emotional rollercoaster, the hidden realities of success, and what it actually takes to win.This isn’t a conversation about budgeting or investing.If you’ve ever:Felt successful but still unsettledStruggled to say noWondered why more money doesn’t fix everythingThis episode will challenge how you think—and how you choose to live.Resources & MentionsWhy Millionaires Still Stress About Money - Budgeting, Money Mindset & YNAB with Jesse Mecham“Would You Walk Away from Seven Figures a Year to Reclaim Your Life?” with Garrett GundersonWhy a $2.5B Exit Didn’t Feel Like Success – Alex Bean on Purpose After Divvy

What does it really take to live a Max Life?In this special compilation episode, Ben brings together insights from Erik Solbakken, Gary Klaben, and Ken Bogard—each sharing a different perspective on identity, adversity, and connection.You’ll learn:How to discover who you really areWhy your mindset shapes your experienceHow to build deeper, more meaningful relationshipsA Max Life isn’t built by doing more—it’s built from the inside out.Resources & MentionsHow High Performers Can Reprogram Their Minds ft. Erik SolbakkenStart With This- Habits of High Performers with Gary Klaben's Grit BlueprintThe Competitive Edge You’re Not Using: Honesty as a High-Performance Tool with Ken Bogard

Feeling stuck isn’t always about effort or strategy. This episode reframes stagnation as a deeper issue—misalignment between who you are, what you value, and how you’re living.Why doing more can take you further off trackThe cost of operating in constant urgency and distractionHow curiosity, trust, and clarity get buried over timeThe gap between intention and how you actually liveWhy alignment—not strategy—is the real leverage pointIn this episode of MaxLife, Jerome Wade, Jason Henkel, Shannon Waller, and Liz Hartke challenge the belief that more strategy is the answer—and reveal why misalignment, not effort, is what’s holding most leaders back. Resources & MentionsWhy Entrepreneurs Fail at Their Dream Life (and the 4 Keys to Fix It) with Jerome WadeWhy Hustle Is Failing: The New Future of Productivity with Jason HenkelThe Curiosity Quest: Creating Teams that Thrive with Shannon WallerFrom Busy to Visionary: The Shift Every Entrepreneur Must Make with Liz Hartke

If you’re the one everyone relies on to fix things, you might be the reason your business can’t grow. This episode challenges the belief that solving more problems equals stronger leadership—and shows what it’s really costing you.Why constant problem-solving creates more complexity instead of lessThe hidden reward loop that keeps high performers stuckHow control can quietly limit your team’s growth and ownershipThe shift from reacting in the moment to designing for the futureGuest BioChris Clearfield is a leadership strategist, author, and Harvard-trained scientist who works with high-performing entrepreneurs to help them scale without becoming the bottleneck in their own business. He has coached founders and executives at SMEs and large companies, including Netflix, Microsoft, Etsy, and ExxonMobil, helping leaders navigate complexity, redesign how decisions get made, and build teams that operate with clarity, ease and ownership. He is the co-author of Meltdown: Why Our Systems Fail and What We Can Do About It, winner of the National Business Book Award and the Thinkers50 Strategy Award. His new book is The High-Altitude Entrepreneur. Learn more at highaltitudebook.com.https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisclearfieldhttps://www.instagram.com/chrisclearfieldhttps://www.facebook.com/ChrisClearfieldLeadershipResources & MentionsThe High-Altitude Entrepreneur: A Framework for Scaling Smarter, Leading Better, and Living Freer by Chris Clearfieldwww.highaltitudebook.comhttps://www.clearfieldleadership.com

Most people think communication is about saying the right thing. This episode challenges that—and reveals how your words are quietly exposing your internal state, shaping your relationships, and influencing your results.Why everyday language reveals hidden insecurity, tension, or clarityThe difference between speaking with agenda vs. speaking with intentionHow miscommunication is costing businesses more than strategy ever willWhat “clean” vs. “toxic” internal fuel sounds like in real conversationsGuest BioCelinne Da Costa is an author, speaker, and Master Coach specializing in helping leaders step into their most authentic, magnetic leadership by transforming subconscious blocks into clear vision, aligned action, and meaningful influence. She partners with high-achieving CEOs, executives, and professionals to help them communicate with confidence, lead with purpose, and build influential brands that inspire and connect deeply with their audiences.Through her holistic, multidimensional approach, Celinne integrates neuro-linguistic programming, hypnotherapy, breathwork, shamanic energy healing, and emotional intelligence coaching with cutting-edge neuroscience as a licensed consultant in advanced neuroplasticity techniques. This comprehensive methodology helps her clients embody their greatness on all levels—mind, body, and soul. Her work has supported Fortune 200 executives, industry experts, and thought leaders to lead with bold clarity, unshakable integrity, and deep confidence in both their professional and personal lives.Celinne’s expertise has been featured in major media outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider, and she has delivered a TEDx talk on the power of human connection.Celinne’s mission is simple yet profound: to guide leaders into living, leading, and communicating from a place of deep alignment with their truth, creating a positive and lasting change in the world.Follow Celinne on Substack, Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin @CelinneDaCosta. www.celinnedacosta.com https://theburningground.comResources & MentionsThe Art of Being Human bookIf Hearts Could Talk bookPre-order Celinne’s new book:  https://theburningground.com

Most high performers don’t fail because they aren’t capable. They struggle because of what they don’t see.The same drive that helps you build something meaningful can also create hidden costs — stress that feels like ambition, goals that lack clarity, and blind spots that quietly shape your decisions.And the challenge is… you often don’t realize it until much later.In this episode of the MaxLife Podcast, Ben pulls together a series of powerful moments from past conversations with Jeff Benton, Charlotte Grimmel, Michael Isom, and Patrick Walker — each offering a different perspective on what high performers tend to learn later than they expect.Inside this episode:Why stress is often mistaken for driveThe difference between ambition and clarityHow success can disconnect you from what actually mattersWhy your most valuable asset isn’t what you thinkHow blind spots are created — and why they’re hard to seeThis episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and revisit ideas that are easy to overlook when you’re in motion.Because the most important lessons aren’t always new — they’re the ones we need to hear again, at the right time.Resources & MentionsWhy Stress Looks Like Drive (Until It Destroys You) | Jeff Benton on Peak PerformanceSelective Ambition — Build a Life by Values, Not Vanity with Charlotte GrimmelAre You Ignoring Your #1 Asset? With Michael IsomThe Hidden Patterns Blocking Your Growth (And How to Find Them) with Patrick Walker

Guest BioJR Lay believes that when knowledge is commoditized, your published wisdom becomes your advantage. As founder of Level Up Business, he helps entrepreneurs turn their lived experience into intellectual property by publishing their books through podcast conversations—establishing them as the recognized voice of wisdom in their industry.A 2X bestselling author and global keynote speaker, JR ranks among the top 3% of podcast hosts worldwide. His insights have been featured in leading publications including U.S. News & World Report, Entrepreneur, Quartz, American Banker, and The Financial Brand.Living in Houston, Texas, with his wife and four children, JR is guided by his life’s motto, memento mori, as he believes your:- Mess can become your message.- Biggest tests, trials, and tribulations can become your testimony.- Pain can become your platform to help others elevate and level up.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrwlay/www.levelupbusiness.comResources & MentionsThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.DLevel Up Business PodcastBanking on Change: The Leader’s Guide to Achieving Exponential Growth in the Age of AI by James Robert Lay

AI is making marketing easier to produce, but harder to trust. Nikki DiFilippo breaks down what founders and startup teams need to understand about growth, positioning, and standing out when everyone can publish at scale.Why AI is increasing marketing output but also increasing noiseThe risk of creating more content without clearer positioningHow startup teams should think about growth in the next 6–12 monthsWhy problem clarity matters more than volumeGuest Bio:Nikki DiFilippo is a growth-stage marketing leader with 25+ years of experience helping entrepreneurial B2B technology companies scale. She is President and CMO of Via Vera Group, where she partners with founders and executive teams, particularly in medical devices, SaaS, and emerging technologies, to clarify positioning, achieve product-market fit, and build go-to-market strategies that drive measurable growth.Nikki has led marketing for companies across MedTech, software and IoT, with deep expertise in demand generation, investor and KOL engagement, conference strategy and maximizing ROI from limited marketing resources. She has played a key role in launching and scaling innovative medical technologies, including supporting FDA-approved products and leading high-impact conference and brand initiatives.In addition to her consulting work, Nikki is an active startup mentor with Case Western Reserve University and JumpStart, a Cleveland-based nonprofit powering Northeast Ohio’s startup and small-business ecosystem, and has held leadership roles with the Case Western Reserve University Alumni Association and the American Marketing Association, Cleveland Chapter. She holds an MBA from Case Western Reserve University and has received multiple honors for leadership and service, including the Daniel T. Clancy Alumni Service Award.www.viaveragroup.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkidifilippo/Resources & Mentionswww.viaveragroup.comwww.marketingaiinstitute.com

Most men think the problem is sex. It’s not. It’s leadership, attraction, and the standards you’ve quietly stopped living by. This conversation reframes what actually drives desire—and why it disappears.Why “happy wife, happy life” erodes polarityThe five attraction dials most men never measureHow losing ambition and decisiveness kills desireWhy rejection is often a mirror—not a mysteryThe difference between wanting to be loved and becoming desirableGuest BioKeith Yackey knows what it feels like to be rejected by the one person who matters most. A successful entrepreneur outwardly thriving, Keith was inwardly crushed when his wife, Jesse, declared, “My life would be better without you.”It wasn’t the mansion, the cars, or the career that mattered to her—it was the man she had once loved but no longer recognized.In The Married Game, Keith takes you on his raw, transformational journey from a man on the brink of losing everything to someone who reignited the flames of passion and created a marriage filled with love, lust, and unshakable connection.This isn’t about saving your marriage—it’s about becoming the man your wife can’t resist.You’ll discover:The 5 key dials of attraction that turn a disconnected husband into a magnetic provocateur.Why your wife’s rejection isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of her deepest desire for you.How to rebuild trust, create primal connection, and spark a passion that only grows hotter with time.Instagram: @keithyackeyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-yackey-13289915/Resources & Mentionshttps://www.keithyackey.com/the-married-gamemancavecomicbook.comThe Married Game Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/married-game-podcast/id1504170972

Many entrepreneurs think their stress is the price of ambition. But what if founder anxiety is rooted in something deeper? This episode breaks down the four patterns Justin sees in nearly every high-performing entrepreneur — and what it takes to finally address them.The link between entrepreneur trauma and extreme anxietyWhy bankruptcy risk and depression are more common than people admitHow high IQ and high EQ often amplify internal pressureThe hidden cost of building from unresolved painWhere real healing actually beginsGuest BioJustin Breen’s next book, Epic Journey, will feature an introduction from Dr. Deepak Chopra. The book also will be turned into a documentary with star actor Gary Sinise providing the narration. Breen also is Co-Founder of Corvia.AI, an education platform that teaches participants how to create songs using artificial intelligence.Breen's second book, Epic Life, featured a foreword from Dr. Peter Diamandis and has been the No. 1 overall book for sales on Amazon Kindle. It also made the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestseller lists.https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbreen1/Resources & Mentionswww.kolbe.comThe Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoThe Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-ExupéryMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. FranklEpic Life: How to Build Collaborative Global Companies While Putting Your Loved Ones First by Justin BreenEpic Business: 30 Secrets to Build Your Business Exponentially and Give You the Freedom to Live the Life You Want! By Justin Breenaurumsanctuary.comcorvia.ai

This episode confronts why so many driven, capable people still feel disconnected—despite doing everything “right.” Dr. Tom Garcia lays out what reclaiming inner authority looks like, how ceremony creates space for truth, and why deeper connection isn’t abstract if you’re willing to practice it daily.The real risk of plant medicine: seeing what you’ve avoided and having your identity challengedThe “reclamation” idea: calling back what’s already yours by birthrightHow ego identity keeps people attached to old stories—and what it takes to suspend itA key question that changes everything: “What did you make up about yourself from what happened?”Why this isn’t “one and done”: integration as the work, not the afterthoughtLove as a discipline: recognizing fear and anger as a call for loveGuest BioDr. Tom Garcia is a shaman, psychedelic guide and integration coach helping people resolve internal conflict and refocus on what they value most to create a breakthrough in self awareness and deep purpose. His guidance leads to greater peace and well being through work that is both practical and spiritual.www.drtomgarcia.comResources & MentionsHow to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael PollanA Course in Miracles: Combined Volume

In an era dominated by AI, the one thing machines still can’t replicate is what actually makes teams work. Curt Steinhorst—author, attention expert, and leadership advisor—breaks down the human skill that high-performing cultures rely on most. This conversation reveals the unseen dynamics that drive trust, speed, and innovation inside teams built for pressure.Why protecting attention is the new leadership advantageThe human skill AI can't replace—and why it matters more nowHow real team culture is built in high-stakes environmentsWhat most leadership frameworks miss about friction and trustWhy velocity without connection leads to team burnoutGuest Bio Curt Steinhorst helps high-performing teams do hard work without becoming hard to work with.A bestselling author (Can I Have Your Attention?, Wiley), Forbes contributor, and keynote speaker, Curt has delivered 500+ presentations to organizations like Nike, Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Southwest Airlines, and the U.S. Naval Academy.His path to the stage ran through years of demographic research at the Center for Generational Kinetics and his own work on the attention economy—all building toward a thesis about what actually makes teams work. Then he tested it as Head of People at Venus Aerospace, building the team that achieved the first flight of a rotating detonation rocket engine—the technology that makes hypersonic travel possible. The physics of Mach 9 flight were unforgiving. The human dynamics required to get there were even more complex.He's fast on his feet, fluent in the trends, and contrarian about what they actually mean. He brings the rigor of a researcher and the curiosity of the kid who never stops asking questions.He lives in Dallas with his wife and kids, coaches his sons' baseball and basketball teams, and admits that getting second graders to stand in a straight line remains his most difficult engineering challenge. He's offered to coach football too, but Justin Forsett (fellow speaker, former NFL Pro Bowler) insists he doesn't need the help—apparently being a borderline starting free safety in middle school doesn't carry the weight it used to.https://www.curtsteinhorst.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtsteinhorst/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChruGvRR-BE_0JZl2R2yDdAhttps://www.instagram.com/curtsteinhorst/?hl=enResources & MentionsCan I Have Your Attention?: Inspiring Better Work Habits, Focusing Your Team, and Getting Stuff Done in the Constantly Connected Workplace by Curt SteinhorstThe Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael Easterhttps://www.curtsteinhorst.com/

If you're only using AI to write emails or summarize notes, you're missing the real opportunity. In this episode, Geoff Woods shares the mindset shift that helped him drive $11B in value—and how AI became his tool for personal clarity, leadership growth, and team transformation.Why most leaders are “majoring in the minors” with AIThe 4-question framework Geoff used to drive exponential business growthWhat it really means to be an AI-driven leaderHow to use AI to find your unique 20% zone of geniusWhy the next level of leadership is not productivity—but presenceGuest BioAI Leadership is spearheaded by Geoff Woods, a visionary leader with a proven track record helping companies grow through strategic thinking and AI-driven solutionsAs the former Chief Growth Officer of Jindal Steel & Power, he drove market cap growth from $750M to $12B in four years through AI-driven leadership.He also co-founded the training and consulting company behind The ONE Thing, where he coached and advised companies with annual revenues from $10 million to $60 billion.​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-woods-8534774/https://www.aileadership.com/Resources & MentionsThe ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary ResultsThe AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster, Smarter Decisionshttps://www.aileadership.com/

Jon Ray explains why your biggest breakthroughs aren’t found in better strategy—but in what you haven’t been willing to feel. This episode exposes the emotional debt entrepreneurs carry and how to stop outsourcing clarity to hustle or tools.Why discomfort is often encrypted guidanceThe false confidence created by emotional suppressionHow AI reveals your inner blocks—not just your productivity gapsA simple shift to reconnect with inner directionHow grief and stillness unlock real leadershipGuest BioJon Ray is an ex-Google marketer turned writer, certified emotional processing coach, and AI-augmented builder. He uses Claude Code + Cursor + APIs to do the work of an entire team—from sales workflows to a 66-book publishing pipeline. After 22 years in the positive thought movement and 9 years of sobriety, his core insight is simple: all the productivity and success frameworks work better when you have done the deep inner emotional work first—and that includes how you work with AI.whoisjonray.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/whoisjonray/Resources & MentionsCreating Money: Attracting Abundance by Sanaya Romanwhoisjonray.com

Shaun Tinney unpacks the uncomfortable truth that we’re always practicing — even when we’re resisting, avoiding, or numbing out. This episode explores how to bring awareness to the micro-moments that shape identity, leadership, and trust in yourself.Why resistance is still a form of practiceHow we rehearse disconnection without realizing itThe emotional cost of always pushing throughWhat real presence looks like in the middle of conflictHow to stop outsourcing clarity — and start living itGuest BioShaun Tinney is a speaker, coach, and author of Practice Everything, a visual guide for turning everyday resistance into real progress and personal clarity. He helps people move through reinvention moments with confidence, presence, and direction, drawing on psychology, the Enneagram, and lived experience to support deep, lasting transformation.https://www.instagram.com/shauntinney/https://practiceeverything.com/https://shauntinney.com/Resources & MentionsPractice Everything by Shaun TinneyThe Prophet by Kahlil Gibranshauntinney.compracticeeverything.com

Most high performers focus on optimizing goals — but overlook the deeper question of what’s quietly draining them. Bill Bloom breaks down how your thoughts, time, and money are silently shaping your emotional state. This isn’t about doing more — it’s about reclaiming clarity by removing what no longer serves you.The “roommate in your head” and how it sabotages energyA 3-part inventory to surface what’s silently stealing your clarityWhy emotional burnout often starts with calendar clutterHow unconscious money habits mirror unresolved beliefsThe surprising cost of tolerating tasks that drain youA new definition of productivity rooted in presence, not pressureGuest BioBill Bloom is the Founder of Bloom Financial and the creator of the Retire As You Desire® Framework—a boutique, concierge-level wealth management philosophy designed for accomplished professionals, entrepreneurs, and multi-generational families. With more than 15 years of experience in private wealth advisory, Bill specializes in retirement income distribution, tax mitigation strategies, succession and estate planning, and legacy preservation. His clients often come to him seeking more than a traditional 60/40 portfolio—they want strategic insight, thoughtful listening, and a trusted partner who understands both the financial and emotional sides of wealth.Bill is known for a highly integrated, white-glove approach that coordinates seamlessly with CPAs, estate attorneys, and other professionals, ensuring clarity and confidence at every stage of life. In addition to his advisory work, Bill is the host of the Retire As You Desire Podcast & TV show, founder of the fintech platform Diane Money®, and a national speaker educating high achievers on optimizing wealth without sacrificing peace of mind.https://www.bloomfinancialco.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bloomfinancialdianemoney.comResources & Mentions#26: Stop Wasting Time: Evan Ryan’s AI Strategy to Save 5+ Hours a Week & Boost Team ProductivityThe Surrender Experiment: My Journey into Life's Perfection by Michael A. Singerhttps://www.bloomfinancialco.comstrategiccoach.comhttps://danielwhitecoaching.com/Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life―A Revolutionary Approach to Maximizing Life Experiences Over Accumulating Wealth by Bill Perkinsdianemoney.com

Get Liz’s Clarity Prompt at: https://luminaryleadershipco.com/clarity or DM the word CLARITY to Liz on Instagram @elizhartke DM the word SCHEDULE  to liz on Instagram @elizhartke to get the Visionary CEO scheduleIn this conversation with leadership advisor Liz Hartke, we uncover the hidden patterns that keep high performers stuck in the trap of “busy,” even when they appear successful on the surface. Liz shares the transformative mindset shifts and tactical frameworks that help entrepreneurs step fully into visionary leadership — without sacrificing their families, freedom, or fulfillment.You’ll learn:The 4 levels of leadership (and how to know which one you’re really operating from)Why hustle is often just a mask for insecurity or misalignmentHow to design your business to elevate your life — not consume itA countercultural approach to growth rooted in clarity, peace, and long-term legacyIf you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but still feel off-track, this episode is youGuest BioFor over a dozen years, Liz has served as a Business and Leadership Advisor to thousands of ambitious entrepreneurs internationally - including greats like JOHN C. MAXWELL - helping them exponentially grow in business while unlocking their God-given potential. Liz is the award winning founder and CEO of the Luminary Leadership Co. and is proud to work alongside her incredible team and husband, while also homeschooling their 4 kids from their farm property. Through her competitive masterminds, mentorship, and online programs, Liz has broken the mold on what it looks like to go from busy work, to your life’s work, while honoring the areas of life that matter most. Her expertise and unconventional wisdom has been featured in media outlets including Forbes, Fast Company and Entrepreneur. She’s personally mentored top industry leaders, and has spoken on stages throughout the world. After losing their 5th baby at 17 weeks pregnant, and experiencing a miraculous event after nearly losing her life herself, Liz is fiercely passionate about getting ambitious entrepreneurs out of the trap of busy, and into visionary leadership where they can access the intentional, meaningful, and freedom-filled lives they crave.https://luminaryleadershipco.com/https://www.instagram.com/elizhartke/Resources & MentionsGet Liz’s Clarity Prompt at: https://luminaryleadershipco.com/clarity or DM the word CLARITY to Liz on Instagram @elizhartke DM the word SCHEDULE  to liz on Instagram @elizhartke to get the Visionary CEO scheduleGreenlights by Matthew McConaugheyLiz’s Podcast: Your Big Next Podcast10X is Easier Than 2X by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Ben Hardyhttps://luminaryleadershipco.com/

A Perfect New Year RevisitAs we kick off a new year, we wanted to reshare one of our favorite conversations from this past summer. This episode hits differently when you’re setting intentions, evaluating your direction, and deciding how you want to show up in the year ahead.Consider this a reset, a reminder, or the spark you didn’t know you needed right now.______Most leaders optimize their calendars, teams, and tech—but ignore the one system that runs it all: the self.In this raw and revelatory episode, Joey Klein—transformational coach, martial artist, and founder of Inner Matrix Systems—joins Ben Laws to explore:Why personal mastery is the lever that scales your businessThe inner “operating system” running your emotional reactivityHow to train resilience like a muscle (and why willpower isn’t enough)The 4-step method Joey uses to reprogram thoughts and behaviorsWhy alignment—not hustle—is the true edge for entrepreneursWhat elite leaders do internally that others never seeThis is a masterclass in emotional conditioning, visionary leadership, and the inner technology that fuels outer performance.Guest BioJoey Klein is a Transformation and Mastery Expert, Author, Speaker, and the Founder & CEO ofInner Matrix Systems, a personal mastery training system for high achievers. He is the author of The Inner Matrix: Leveraging the Art & Science of Personal Mastery to Create Real Life Results and his book, Relationship Alchemy: A Practical Guide to Getting Along Well WithOthers.Since starting Inner Matrix Systems in 2002, Joey has trained over 84,000 individuals worldwide, including executives from Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurs, and professional athletes to ensure their vision is not only enduring but actually creates the fulfillment and impact they desire. After crawling out of the ditch of a hard-partying lifestyle that culminated in a near-death experience at 19 years old, Joey set out on a journey to find peace and joy for himself. He became obsessed with figuring out how to make instant transformation possible, a quest which took him all over the world to study different traditional disciplines like meditation, martial arts, and spiritual traditions.Upon his return, he studied with expert psychologists and neuroscientists, ultimately leading him to create his proprietary Inner Matrix Method. While instant transformation is possible, Joey’s enduring passion is training mastery inside himself and his clients to truly live the life that’s possible for each one of us As a result of his research, training, and experience, Joey has long been considered an expert on the inner game of performance and is passionate about supporting his clients to live their life all-out with fulfillment and purpose. He embodies this passion through his core values of Excellence, Ownership, Mastery, Integrity, and Results.Among his clients, Joey has a reputation of fixing un-fixable problems, removing the obstacles that keep them from the life of their dreams, and making himself responsible for their desired outcome until it’s fulfilled. He puts himself directly in the trenches with every client to ensure they achieve the results they’re looking for. His methods are direct, comprehensive, and proven to produce the desired outcome every time.Joey currently lives in Colorado and enjoys hiking, skiing, and mountain biking to fulfill his desire for fun and adventure.https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeyklein/https://www.facebook.com/JoeyKleinIMS/Instagram: @therealjoeykleinResources & MentionsThe Inner MatrixRelationship Alchemyjoeyklein.com

Scott Ford poses one of the simplest — and most revealing — challenges for high performers: Rate your well-being. Not your business. Not your output. You. If something feels off, this episode shows you how to move one step closer to real wholeness.Guest BioScott Ford was born an entrepreneur. In fact, he started his first business in middle school! Like all entrepreneurs, he found a passion and then found a way to turn it into a business. Scott performed magic tricks at restaurants and eventually grew into performing at birthday parties. He was raised to believe that the small business owner is the backbone of the economy, and this is why he feels called to serve them. Scott started his career in insurance early and soon realized that business owners need help in all areas where money is concerned so he set out to simplify the ever-increasing complexity that surrounds entrepreneurs as they grow financially. Through his experiences, he learned that we all want the same things…to live life fully, to have love and find our own freedom. He developed The Way2Wealth®, a process for managing wealth, so he could help others who like him, feel that life gets more complicated as it becomes more successful. Scott is a New York Times best-selling author, Former Chairman of the 4 Worlds Global Impact Fund and current member, Managing Director, Partner and Wealth Advisor leading several Carson Wealth locations to focus on serving entrepreneurs.Today, Scott leads multiple locations with a focus on serving entrepreneurs. His firm specializes in comprehensive wealth management using The Way2Wealth® proprietary process. His personal and proactive approach is designed to bring clarity and simplicity to the complex issues of financial management. It is Scott’s mission to help his clients pursue financial freedom, allowing them to focus on what is most important in their lives now and in the future.Scott is a life-long learner and spends his free time reading and writing and has published three books, one of which was a New York Times Bestseller. He also enjoys Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, woodworking, and beekeeping. Scott practices sustainable living through permaculture, and sacred bow hunting, using Indigenous wisdom to guide him.Scott enjoys spending time outdoors and with his family. Scott has come a long way from his first business in middle school and still has plenty of creative tricks up his sleeve! He and his wife, Angie, reside in Hedgesville, WV, and have two grown children, five grandchildren, a dog (Zeppelin) a cat (Maximus), and a plethora of wild animals that come to visit from time to time.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdford/Instagram: @scottd.fordFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.ford.7906Twitter: https://x.com/ScottDFordResources & MentionsThe Surrender Experiment: My Journey into Life's Perfection by Michael SingerThe Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Singerhttps://smartbodysmartmind.com/Alan Watts Video: Live Fully Nowtheway2wealth.com

In this episode of The Max Life Podcast, Patrick Walker reveals why blind spots aren’t flaws—they’re signals. Learn how to work with discomfort, feedback, and altered states to uncover your true edge as a leader and human being.Guest BioPatrick Walker is an accomplished entrepreneur, strategic consultant and coach with over three decades of experience navigating all aspects of starting and growing a business through disruptive change and reinvention in challenging markets, industry upheaval and technological change. As a senior consultant, Patrick consults with leaders at all levels in organizations fromFortune 500 companies to smaller regional firms, Patrick’s work has been both broad and deep, including strategic consulting, exit and succession planning, attracting and retaining top talent, as well as helping both individuals and organizations to identify, work with, and grow beyond their blind spots – a process necessary in business environments of rapid change and increasing complexity.As the founder of a digital design and manufacturing company, Patrick wore all the usual entrepreneurial hats, but it is in the areas of individual and team development and growth that he is most keenly focused, and has trained with Integral Coaching Canada, The Neuroleadership Institute, The Center for Applied Rationality, Otto Scharmer, Robert Kegan and Terri O’Fallon.Patrick’s approach is playful but direct, supportive but challenging, and he is devoted to finding that sweet spot that we all require in order to continue our personal and professional evolution – enough discomfort that we’re sufficiently engaged and open to new ideas and behaviors, but not so much that we are overwhelmed - all in service to healthy transformation and sustainable new outcomes. He also loves to read, study and travel with his wife Jeanne, and also plays music - which he did many years ago on cruise ships for 2 years, right after a season on a crab boat out of Dutch Harbor, Alaska, which was between semesters during his studies at Western  Washington State University in Elementary Education. He will readily admit to his “checkered past.”https://www.northish.com https://thetelosinstitute.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickwalker4/https://www.instagram.com/thisisnorthish/Resources & MentionsAdd link to Finnian Kelly EpisodeHow to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael Pollanwecroak.com

Carl Ficks spent over 30 years thriving in one of the most high-pressure jobs on the planet. Now, he coaches leaders on how to lead with emotional clarity, stay consistent under fire, and build trust from the inside out.In this episode of The Max Life Podcast, you'll uncover three habits that protect your energy, sharpen your thinking, and help you lead without losing yourself — especially when it’s hard. The first 20 commenters on YouTube get a free copy of Carl's book!Guest BioCarl R. Ficks, Jr., J.D. helps leaders fire up their teams, boost engagement, solve problems collaboratively, and lead with emotional intelligence. A former trial lawyer with 30+ years in the trenches, Carl knows how to thrive under pressure - and teaches others to do the same. He’s a trusted advisor to organizations and nonprofits, an endurance athlete who believes resilience is a superpower, and a frequent voice on leadership and legal podcasts. Carl has a bi-weekly newspaper column titled “The Friday Ficks” and is a contributing author to both the #1 International Bestseller THE WISDOM COLLECTION: Stories That Transform How We Live, Connect, and Lead, and THE DIFFERENCE: Essays on Loss, Courage and Personal Transformation.https://carlficks.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlrficksjr/https://www.facebook.com/carl.ficks.1@carlficksResources & MentionsThe Difference: Essays on Loss, Courage, and Personal Transformation The Friday FicksRage Against the Dying of the Light by Dylan ThomasThe Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy)

Jeff Benton—advisor to Special Forces, pro athletes, and Fortune 500 leaders—reveals how stress hides in plain sight, disguised as ambition. Discover the simple physiological shift that restores clarity, energy, and connection most high performers never realize they’ve lost.Guest BioJeff Benton, Founder & CEO of Paragon Performance Evolution, focuses on peak performance training through various aspects of personal and collective growth. By developing customized leadership and high-performance programs, Paragon’s focus is to create significant impact for individuals and client organizations, ranging from FORTUNE 500 companies to Special Forces, professional athletes, leading academic institutions, Global First Ladies, and astronauts.The core of Paragon's teachings revolve around achieving a coherent state through self-regulation and increased awareness of thoughts and emotions. By helping individuals attain this state of coherence, it enables them to optimize key brain functions and improve overall physiology, leading to greater clarity, presence, joy and gratitude. This enables an individual to achieve greater overall performance, and also deeper and more authentic relationships, at an individual, team and organizational level, creating a collective state of coherence.The topics covered in Paragon's peak performance training programs are diverse and essential for personal and professional growth. Leadership, resiliency, heart-centered leadership, coherent communication, self-mastery, and emotional intelligence are all vital areas that contribute to overall success and well-being.Paragon's approach is holistic, combining transformative methodologies with a deep understanding of human behavior to help individuals and organizations reach new heights of success and fulfillment.  This includes combining the best of modern science and human behavior with timeless wisdom.Ultimately, Jeff’s work allows for him to combine his deepest passions of connecting people and supporting individuals in their journey of transformation, and to be his own human lab, exploring what is possible in this lifetime.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-robert-benton-51240a4/https://www.instagram.com/paragon_performance/Resources & MentionsTools of Titans by Tim Ferrisswww.performanceparagon.com https://performanceparagon.com/individual-programs/To Receive a Free Coherence Call Invite - Email [email protected]://performanceparagon.com/resilience-reset/ 

In this episode of The Max Life Podcast, high-performance coach Finnian Kelly shares how breath — not hustle — unlocks clarity, energy, and calm leadership. You’ll learn how to regulate stress, lead from presence, and shift from reactivity to strategic momentum.Guest BioFinnian Kelly is the founder of Intentionality Inc., a sought-after speaker and high-performance coach, and a master breathwork facilitator. He helps world-changing leaders implement his Intentionality® methodology to find new levels of fulfillment and growth in their creative endeavors, relationships, and overall well-being. As a successful entrepreneur and a retired officer in the Australian military, Finnian has been dubbed "the Business Mystic'' because of his unique ability to awaken consciousness in business and inspire CEOs and leadership teams to have a more expansive human experience. www.finniankelly.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thefinniankelly/https://www.facebook.com/thefinniankelly/https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefinniankelly/https://www.youtube.com/@thefinniankellyhttps://x.com/TheFinnKellyResources & MentionsThe Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael EasterIntentionality: A Groundbreaking Guide to Breath, Consciousness, and Radical Self-Transformation by Finnian Kellyhttps://www.omya.life/https://cascada.me/

Scott Hollrah scaled a nationally recognized firm—then chose to pause. In this episode, we explore why stepping back sharpened his leadership, and how clarity follows stillness.You’ll learn: using sabbaticals as strategy, hiring by values, and leading without burnout.Guest BioScott Hollrah is the Founder & CEO of Venn Technology, where he transformed a one-person consultancy into a nationally recognized integration firm trusted by mid-market organizations and backed by strategic partnerships with Stripe and Sage Intacct. Venn has earned consistent recognition on the Inc 5000, Aggie 100, and as a Best Place to Work, while delivering millions in recurring revenue through automation that makes businesses run smarter.Known for a values-driven approach to leadership, Scott has built a culture where people thrive and results follow. He has advised organizations across industries—from construction to healthcare to nonprofits—always with a focus on solving complex problems with practical, lasting solutions.Outside of Venn, Scott hosts In the Thick of It, a podcast that highlights the raw and real journeys of fellow founders. A husband, father of three, traveler, and aspiring photographer, he balances entrepreneurial grit with a passion for investing in people and purpose.Scott is a proud graduate of Texas A&M’s Mays Business School (BBA, Marketing) and remains deeply connected to his Aggie roots.linkedin.com/company/venn-technologylinkedin.com/in/scotthollrahlinkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcastResources & Mentionsvenntechnology.comNot Being Bothered by Dan Sullivan10X is Easier Than 2X by Dan SullivanThe Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin HardyClockwork: Design Your Business to Run Itself by Mike MichalowiczCherish: The One Word That Changes Everything for Your Marriage by Gary ThomasScott’s Podcast: In the Thick of It  

Entrepreneurs are told to want more. Charlotte (The Mind Friend) challenges that narrative with Selective Ambition — the art of pursuing goals rooted in values, not vanity. Learn the 3 questions that reveal what truly drives you, how intentional constraints protect freedom, and why discomfort is a feature, not a flaw. This episode of MaxLife is a masterclass in designing success that feels good on the inside — not just the outside.Guest BioCharlotte is a psychologist-turned-business coach who helps founders, coaches, and creatives build freedom-first businesses rooted in clarity, self-trust, and sustainable growth. Through her brand The Mind Friend, she blends grounded psychology with high-performance strategy to help her clients rewire internal blocks, show up fully, and scale without burning out or selling out. Originally from Switzerland, Charlotte once moved to a remote island in the South Pacific — and has since built a location-independent business that reflects the life she actually wants to live. She’s a former competitive athlete, certified yoga teacher, and divemaster — now splitting her time between Cape Town and Europe, helping entrepreneurs grow businesses that are mentally sustainable and strategically sound.Instagram: @themindfriendSubstack (Selectively Ambitious): https://themindfriend.substack.com/Self-sabotage course: https://themindfriend.net/ssc1:1 Coaching Application: https://3nwicvkwnfe.typeform.com/to/hINLmOTb Resources & MentionsSalt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin NosratSubstack (Selectively Ambitious): https://themindfriend.substack.com/Self-sabotage course: https://themindfriend.net/ssc1:1 Coaching Application: https://3nwicvkwnfe.typeform.com/to/hINLmOTb

Behavioral economist Dr. Don Barden unpacks the leadership framework driving what he calls the next great economic expansion. Based on thousands of interviews and deep quantitative research, he outlines the unseen advantages women bring to leadership—and the exact steps any leader can take to replicate the results. You’ll hear how empathy, empowerment, and perspective are reshaping retention, revenue, and the rhythm of modern business.DM Don for a FREE ecopy of his book Here Come the Girls. Guest BioDr. Don Barden is a classically trained economist, globally recognized as an expert in leadership and the decision-making process. With three decades of corporate leadership and production in employee benefits and organizational leadership, he has changed the landscape of several US and international firms.Don was named one of the Top 30 Most “Transformational Leaders in North America” by John Maxwell and the 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. In 2019, the Department of Defense recognized him with honors from the 75th US Army Ranger Regiment, and he was named 2020 YMCA Volunteer of the Year.He is certified in Cybersecurity Management from Harvard University and has a Ph.D. in Economics and Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University. He earned his M.B.A. in Global Technology Management and International Business with an undergraduate B.B.A. in Economics and Finance. He resides in Atlanta, Georgia.Don’s work challenges and motivates organizations and leadership teams to think deeply about their beliefs to consistently achieve their communication, culture, sales, and management goals. His “unfair advantage” theories are revolutionary in today’s economy as he leads and builds companies in a way that exposes the myth of modern leadership and communication techniques. Don’s recent work, “Here Come the Girls,” celebrates women in leadership. The study aims to help frustrated organizations transform by awakening their creative energy, thereby paving the way for uncharted production through cultural change.Conquering the highest levels of ethical performance with humor, intellectual capital, and time-tested systems, Don engages his teams with his highly personal style of steward leadership. His experience with cultural change and record-setting growth has drawn him to corporations that want to tap into his real-world expertise to move their organizations to higher levels of achievement. Don is well known in the financial industry, with sales averaging over $ 1 billion per year, and for his original book, The Perfect Plan, is available in 39 countries worldwide.Don also serves as a Trustee and the past Chairman of the Summit Counseling Center in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a past board member of the Metro Atlanta YMCA and was responsible for designing their COVID response and post-COVID strategic initiatives. He is a past Board Member of the Sua Sponte Foundation. Additionally, he lectures at Wake Forest University, The Wharton School of Business, and Oxford University (U.K.) Dr. Barden is a frequent instructor at the US Army 1st and 3rd Ranger Battalion / 75 th Regiment’s Leadership and Professional Development Program.https://www.linkedin.com/in/donwbarden/https://www.instagram.com/donbarden  Resources & Mentionshttps://donbarden.com/category/here-come-the-girls/Here Come the Girls: A Celebration of Why Women Will Take Over Global Leadership In 2028 by Don Barden

Dr. Don Barden is a recognized leader in leadership and decision-making psychology. With global influence, military honors, and a track record of leading billion-dollar organizations,  he helps elite performers align purpose, power, and performance.In this episode of MaxLife, we unpack what most people get wrong about passion, why high performers often feel isolated, and how true leadership is forged through sacrifice—not spotlight.You’ll learn:Why real passion always demands sacrificeHow to lead with strength in soft, uncertain timesThe “two-minute decision” framework for clarity under pressureHow to break through when success still feels emptyWhy legacy is about ripples, not recognitionIt’s not louder leadership — it’s a different way forward.Guest Bio Dr. Don Barden is a classically trained economist, globally recognized as an expert in leadership and the decision-making process. With three decades of corporate leadership and production in employee benefits and organizational leadership, he has changed the landscape of several US and international firms.Don was named one of the Top 30 Most “Transformational Leaders in North America” by John Maxwell and the 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. In 2019, the Department of Defense recognized him with honors from the 75th US Army Ranger Regiment, and he was named 2020 YMCA Volunteer of the Year.He is certified in Cybersecurity Management from Harvard University and has a Ph.D. in Economics and Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University. He earned his M.B.A. in Global Technology Management and International Business with an undergraduate B.B.A. in Economics and Finance. He resides in Atlanta, Georgia.Don’s work challenges and motivates organizations and leadership teams to think deeply about their beliefs to consistently achieve their communication, culture, sales, and management goals. His “unfair advantage” theories are revolutionary in today’s economy as he leads and builds companies in a way that exposes the myth of modern leadership and communication techniques. Don’s recent work, “Here Come the Girls,” celebrates women in leadership. The study aims to help frustrated organizations transform by awakening their creative energy, thereby paving the way for uncharted production through cultural change.Conquering the highest levels of ethical performance with humor, intellectual capital, and time-tested systems, Don engages his teams with his highly personal style of steward leadership. His experience with cultural change and record-setting growth has drawn him to corporations that want to tap into his real-world expertise to move their organizations to higher levels of achievement. Don is well known in the financial industry, with sales averaging over $ 1 billion per year, and for his original book, The Perfect Plan, is available in 39 countries worldwide.Don also serves as a Trustee and the past Chairman of the Summit Counseling Center in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a past board member of the Metro Atlanta YMCA and was responsible for designing their COVID response and post-COVID strategic initiatives. He is a past Board Member of the Sua Sponte Foundation. Additionally, he lectures at Wake Forest University, The Wharton School of Business, and Oxford University (U.K.) Dr. Barden is a frequent instructor at the US Army 1st and 3rd Ranger Battalion / 75 th Regiment’s Leadership and Professional Development Program.https://www.linkedin.com/in/donwbarden/Resources & Mentionshttps://www.maxwellleadership.com/The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael EasterThe MaxLife Podcast: #42: Why Hustle Is Failing: The New Future of Productivity with Jason HenkelLech Walesa

What if your next level as a high performer isn't about doing more — but about becoming someone no one else can be?Jeremy Bergeron was a successful entrepreneur, but it wasn’t until he followed a gut-level “yes” and stepped into an undefined role beside a polymath founder that his career — and life — transformed.In this episode, you’ll learn:What true Chiefs of Staff actually do (and what founders get wrong)How to sense and serve a business athlete before they even askWhy trust and presence outperform tactics in high-stakes leadershipJeremy’s personal practices to expand capacity and reduce self-sabotageHow to find (or become) the #2 that scales the mission and the soulThis is required listening if you’re building something big — or supporting someone who is.Guest Bio Jeremy Bergeron is a serial entrepreneur, podcast host, and executive advisor behind 9-figure ventures and category-defining communities. As Chief of Staff to a full-stack polymath leading multiple businesses in multiple industries, Jeremy plays a Rick Rubin-style role; supporting visionary founders across industries like tech, health, real estate, and media. His journey includes building a B2B media network with over 4 million annual podcast downloads, pioneering new models in fractional leadership, and integrating somatic healing, plant medicine, and nervous system mastery to scale with soul. Jeremy lives at the intersection of performance, presence, and purpose...and helps other leaders do the same.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremybergeron/https://x.com/bergeronstrongResources & Mentionshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/liorweinstein/https://ctox.com/https://www.mocharymethod.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniepostles/mission.org The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level―A Transformative Guide to Overcoming Fears and False Beliefs for Personal Growth and Success by Gay Hendricks

In this episode, former Divvy co-founder Alex Bean unpacks the real story behind a $2.5B exit—and what no one tells you about life after. You’ll learn:Why success feels empty without purpose—and how to find yoursHow to hire elite talent using the “Car Theory”The unexpected downside of wealth (and how it affects identity, marriage, and parenting)The power of defining your personal “Factory for Good” to sustain impact and fulfillmentTactical advice for testing product-market fit before you ever write a line of codeIf you're an entrepreneur chasing a big exit—or wondering what comes after—you’ll walk away with clarity, caution, and conviction.Guest BioAlex Bean is a managing partner at Tandem Ventures, an investment group focused on leveraging operator experience to drive investments in promising startups. Before Tandem Ventures, Alex co-founded Divvy, a revolutionary business expense and budget management platform. Under his guidance, Divvy experienced meteoric growth, leading to an impressive $2.5 billion exit. Originally from Seattle, Alex lives in Highland, Utah with his family. Alex has been married to his wife Megan for 17 years, and they have four children, two girls, and two boys. Alex enjoys playing golf, pickleball, skiing, and spending time with his family and friends. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbean/Resources & MentionsFactory for Good by Alex Beanhttp://www.factoryforgood.com/

Are you being tricked every time you step into the healthcare system? In this episode of MaxLife, Dr. David Berg reveals how MRI prices range from $250 to $18,000, why your insurance card is the worst place to start, and how to save thousands with simple shifts in mindset and logistics.Learn:Why much of healthcare is actually cheaper today—but hidden under layers of waste.The three-step framework to avoid getting taken advantage of.How to navigate fear, urgency, and asymmetry of knowledge.This isn’t about demonizing doctors or insurance companies—it’s about understanding the system and regaining control of your family’s health costs.Guest BioDr. Berg has served as CEO and Co-Founder since Redirect Health's inception in 2013. Prior to co-founding Redirect Health, Dr. Berg established and maintained successful healthcare clinics both in Canada and the United States. With Redirect Health he has leveraged his decades of healthcare leadership experience to make healthcare simple and affordable for businesses throughout the country. Dr. Berg is the author of "The Business Owner's Guide to Ending the Fight with Healthcare", a how-to guide that helps business owners leverage healthcare as a competitive advantage. The Phoenix Business Journal honored Dr. Berg with the “Healthcare Heroes Innovator Award” for creating a transformative healthcare member experience that eliminates barriers for people to get affordable healthcare. Dr. Berg was also the finalist for three best-in-class awards at the World Health Care Congress in Washington DC. He holds degrees in both Physics and Biology from the University of Toronto as well as a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidfbergResources & Mentionsredirecthealth.comhttps://www.strategiccoach.com/https://www.wittforever.com/Lior Weinstein: linkedin.com/in/liorweinstein

Ken Neumann believes success begins by letting go of control and trusting God with the outcome. As an entrepreneur, inventor, and visionary behind Youtopia, he brings both spiritual clarity and tactical insight to business building.We explore:How faith can guide bold business decisionsPractical leadership lessons from building and scaling companiesThe vision behind Youtopia’s mission to end preventable diseaseWhy impact, not ego, is the ultimate measure of successA must-listen for entrepreneurs who want their work aligned with their purpose.Guest BioKen Neumann is a passionate husband, brother, father, and grandfather. Ken strives to be known as a “man after God’s own heart” and follows a purpose to “be a good and faithful servant in all that he is called to do”.He is currently building a company called Youtopia, focused on "Making Vibrant Health and Longevity to 120 a Simple and Achievable Reality for All of Us”. A visionary serial entrepreneur with a strong engineering and business background, he excels in identifying opportunities and leading transformative ventures. He has built numerous businesses from startups and driven over $500 million in annual revenue and $5 billion in total revenue in diverse industries. Ken's ventures span pharmaceuticals, energy tech, software, team development, real estate, and homebuilding. Recognized by Training Magazine as one of the Top 11 CEO’s in the world. His businesses earned prestigious awards like the National Housing Quality Award, 100 Best to Work For, America’s Best Builder, and Top Technology Company of the Year. He is recognized as one of the top 1% inventors in the world with over 260 issued patents.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-neumann-57688010/Resources & MentionsStrategic Coachyoutopia.com

Most entrepreneurs are sprinting harder than ever—yet falling further behind. In this conversation, Jason Henkel reveals why stillness is the next frontier of productivity and what separates those who thrive from those who burn out.You’ll learn:How AI can enhance your thinking instead of replacing itTactical prompts that sharpen clarity and decision-makingDaily practices to access flow and authentic leadershipThe unlearning required to break free from performative successWhy love—not hustle—is the highest form of leadershipIf you don’t apply these shifts, you’ll keep chasing hacks while others quietly unlock the future of productivity.Guest BioJason Henkel is a renowned expert in personal and team productivity. Jason's unique, brain-based approach to productivity and wellbeing is not just about getting more done, but rather about achieving far more meaningful output in less time while keeping balance and wellbeing at center stage. Jason's journey to becoming a productivity expert is as inspiring and relatable to so many. He climbed the ranks of a Fortune 100 company, finding himself in a demanding, globe-trotting role. Despite his hard work and determination, he found himself overwhelmed by the always on culture of our modern era and sheer volume of workload. The imbalance this created in his life became a toxic norm. Jason eventually realized the path he was on was not leading to joy, but to burnout and quickly diminishing quality of life. This realization sparked an intense period of study and self-reflection, during which Jason discovered the meta-skills, modalities and strategies that allowed him to escape the trance of busyness and begin a new path. He found a way to thrive and achieving a state of spacious productivity that enabled him to still get it all done but in a truly sustainable way. Jason often says, "My mess has become my message." His experiences have fueled a mission to share with the world his learnings that have transformed his life so dramatically. When asked what he does, Jason's answer is simple and clear: "I deliver calm, deliberate, and authentic productivity." His unique approach has earned him the nickname 'The Productivity Whisperer' from US Navy SEALS Commander Mark McGinnis. Having trained executive leadership teams and organizations around the globe, Jason's ultimate goal is to help individuals and teams thrive in their highest priorities while enabling a more spacious, healthy, and high-performing life.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasehenkel/Resources & Mentionshttps://www.focustoevolve.com/https://www.flowgenomeproject.com/Modern Elders AcademyFalling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life by Richard RohrThe Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David BrooksWillpower Doesn't Work: Discover The Hidden Keys to Success by Ben Hardy

Most people chase success using the wrong map. In this unfiltered conversation, award-winning entrepreneur and designer Lisa Cini reveals what high performers often miss—and how to redefine winning on your own terms.You’ll learn:Why “work-life balance” is a damaging illusion—and what to replace it withHow to reframe fear, failure, and indecision into elite performance assetsThe power of “micro-mistakes” and emotional agency in building resilient teamsHow identity, ego, and alignment influence consistency and long-term winsA candid take on ambition, gender roles, and why “different” is better than “equal”Whether you’re scaling a company or your family life, this episode delivers the mindset shifts and systems that actually move the needle.Guest BioWe are an award-winning design, project management and procurement studio specializing in Aging in Place, Residential Assisted Living (small home) and Senior living.We have patented budget building software that provides clear, correct, comprehensive numbers that gives you the confidence to move forward with your RAL project.Our mission is to serve the aging population and the clients that serve them.https://www.facebook.com/lisa.m.cinihttps://www.instagram.com/lisacini/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisacini/https://www.youtube.com/@lisacini6779Resources & Mentionshttps://www.lisamcini.com/Amazon Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/Infinite-Living-Secrets-Werner-House/dp/B0B8MQ7XK5Boom: The Baby Boomers' Guide to Preserving Your Freedom and Thriving as You Age in Place by Lisa CiniThe Future Is Here: Senior Living Reimagined by Lisa CiniHive by Lisa Cini

While most high performers chase bigger systems and tighter routines, Mike Williams — former CEO of Getting Things Done and enterprise architect at Zappos — helps elite leaders subtract everything that doesn’t matter.In this conversation, we unpack the clarity-first frameworks that simplify complexity, unlock capacity, and make sustainable performance possible.You’ll learn:How to use the “roles, projects, practices” model to regain focus and energyThe coaching questions that create breakthroughs — even in difficult conversationsWhy traditional goal setting often fails, and what to do insteadMicro-habits that build clarity, consistency, and leadership presenceIf you're operating at a high level but still feel scattered or stuck, this episode is your reset.Guest BioCEO Mike Williams has transformed the productivity and presence of thousands of leaders from overwhelmed to focused. Through his leadership at General Electric, as the CEO of the David Allen Company (Getting Things Done), and as Enterprise Productivity Architect at Zappos, Mike developed the frameworks that help successful people navigate complexity without losing their sanity. Unlike traditional productivity coaching that adds more systems to manage, Mike's approach helps you subtract everything that doesn't matter—creating the clarity that makes complex leadership sustainable.www.doingtodone.comhttps://www.instagram.com/askmikewilliams/https://www.linkedin.com/in/askmikewilliams/Resources & MentionsDoing to Done: Productivity Made Simple by Mike WilliamsAtomic Habits by James ClearThe Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael EasterThe Science of Scaling: Grow Your Business Bigger and Faster Than You Think Possible by Dr. Benjamin Hardy & Blake EricksonDoing to Done: Productivity Made Simple by Mike Williamswww.doingtodone.com 

#39: Why Discomfort is the Secret to Real Confidence with David EngelMost people run from discomfort. But what if leaning into it was the key to confidence, growth, and joy? In this powerful conversation, David Engel shares decades of wisdom on how change shapes success, why failure can be your greatest teacher, and how relationships define a meaningful life.What you’ll take away:How to reframe discomfort as your fastest path to growthThe hidden link between confidence and trustWhy failure often teaches more than successHow to ask bolder questions that change everythingThe mindset shifts that redefine what “success” really meansGuest BioDavid Engel is the visionary founder of Innovative HRT, the marketing innovation consultancy he established in 1995 following a distinguished 20-year career in direct mail marketing. As both CEO and Chief Innovation Officer, David has become renowned for pioneering proprietary, patent-backed solutions that consistently elevate customer acquisition, retention, and response rates—especially within the financial, retail, and loyalty sectors innovationhrt.com+6innovativehrt.com+6innovativehrt.com+6.Over more than two decades, David has developed a reputation as a leading innovator in direct response marketing. His deep industry knowledge and forward-thinking approach have driven the creation of bespoke “innovation platforms” that supercharge client marketing efforts through an effective blend of creativity, technology, and strategic research innovativehrt.com+1.Under David’s leadership, Innovative HRT offers clients enterprise-level guidance through a highly individualized process: global research, tailored technology scouting, and quarterly presentations of actionable, client-specific recommendations. This model has consistently produced improved marketing outcomes and performance well beyond baseline expectations innovativehrt.com+2innovativehrt.com+2.David’s influence extends across the broader marketing community. He is an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) and has been honored with prestigious awards such as the CMA’s Director’s Choice Award and the RSVP Award for Resource Partner Innovation, affirming his contributions to advancing marketing education and [email protected] & MentionsNatural Born Heroes by Christopher McDougallHRT.com

Most high performers think they know what they want — but in reality, their goals are fuzzy, their actions scattered, and their results inconsistent. In this conversation with global adventurer and entrepreneur Jerome Wade, we unpack exactly why clarity and courage are the missing ingredients.You’ll discover:The 4 C’s Framework for building the life you wantHow to avoid the trap of “how?” thinking that kills dreamsThe power of reframing failure as tuition, not lossWhy indecision is more expensive than bad decisionsThe real cost of playing it safe vs. failing forwardIf you want a tactical roadmap to design and execute your dream life, this conversation delivers the formula.Text 719-480-2125 to get a free digital copy of UNLEASHED!Guest BioJerome Wade embodies boundless potential and audacious spirit. He's not only a glider pilot, powered pilot, sailor, dive master, and global adventurer who consistently pushes beyond limits, but also an entrepreneur whose ventures have impacted over 100,000 households; exemplifying authority founded on deep success.As a professional speaker, he has delivered over 4000 presentations. He is a best-selling author and the visionary founder of EPIC Global, a consultancy dedicated to unlocking human potential and empowering leaders and teams to exceed their limits.He is currently launching Midlifers.com - a global community of midlife business-owning couples ready to ignite purpose, adventure, and the best years of their life.https://www.facebook.com/jerome.wadehttps://www.instagram.com/jeromewadehttps://www.youtube.com/jeromewadeResources & Mentionsmidlifers.com/reinventUNLEASHED: Dominate Your Limitations, Break Through Your Barriers, Live an Extraordinary Life! By Jerome Wade

What if you could radically increase your results while working fewer hours? Walt Hampton — bestselling author, high-altitude mountaineer, and former managing partner — reveals the proven systems he’s used to help elite entrepreneurs reclaim their time, scale their businesses, and live life on their terms. In this episode, you’ll discover:The 3 “Power Principles” of time mastery that create immediate bandwidthHow to identify and eliminate the work that doesn’t move the needleStrategies for building a location-independent businessLessons from mountaineering and ultra-running that sharpen leadership and decision-makingHow to align your business with your deepest values for sustainable successThis is your roadmap to breaking free from the grind and stepping fully into your high-performance life.Access Free eBook & Executive Tools: The Power Principles of Time Mastery: https://summit-success.com/time-mastery-maxlifeGuest BioWalt Hampton, J.D. is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Summit Success International, a global personal & professional development firm; and the Acquisitions Director at Summit Press Publishers, a premier publisher of expert positioning books. Walt is a business coach, management consultant, leadership trainer & motivational speaker. He is the bestselling author of Journeys on the Edge: Living a Life That Matters, named a Top 10 Non-Fiction Book and a two-time recipient of the North American Book Awards; as well as the author of The Power Principles of Time Mastery: Do Less, Make More, Have Fun. A 1984 graduate of The Cornell Law School, Walt was managing partner of a law firm for nearly 30 years with a practice focused on commercial litigation and criminal defense. He was trained as a Results Coach by Robbins Research International and worked directly for Tony Robbins as one of Tony’s elite-level certified business coaches. Walt’s passions are high-altitude mountaineering, ultra-distance running, blue-water sailing & adventure photography. He and his wife, the publisher Ann Sheybani, reside in Intervale, New Hampshire.walthampton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/walthampton/Resources & MentionsJourneys On The Edge: Living a Life That Matters by Walt HamptonThe Power Principles of Time Mastery: Do Less. Make More. Have Fun by Walt HamptonMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

On this episode of MaxLife, Ben Laws sits down with Michael Isom, financial educator and co-author of What We’re Worth, to unpack why most entrepreneurs overlook their most valuable asset — themselves. Michael shares his journey from losing everything to rebuilding it all using the AIS Triangle framework. You’ll learn:How to measure and multiply your Human Life ValueWays to protect your wealth from unnecessary riskThe role of aligned values in long-term successWhy self-investment outperforms every other asset classThis isn’t theory — it’s the same approach Michael used to create financial certainty after near-total loss.Guest BioMichael Isom is a dynamic entrepreneur, speaker, and visionary author whose extraordinary journey encapsulates resilience, transformation, and the pursuit of a values-driven life.Having achieved remarkable material success in business, Michael faced a dramatic reversal due to ill-fated investments.This pivotal moment prompted a profound shift, prioritizing meaning, family, and inner fulfillment over superficial wealth.From this transformation, he conceived the "Human Life Value Balance Sheet" concept, offering a holistic measure of prosperity and happiness.His book, "What We're Worth," shares his journey and inspires others to embrace a values-based life.As a devoted husband, father, and businessman, Michael conducts workshops, trainings, and inspiring keynote speeches, offering actionable strategies for optimizing "HLV" in all aspects of life.Michael's contributions extend to finance, where he founded Vault AIS. He co-authored "What Would The Rockefellers Do" and champions "The AIS Triangle™," a system simplifying personal finance while preserving wealth across generations.His insights on gratitude, self-improvement, legacy, and the pitfalls of materialism have enriched countless lives.Based in St. George, Utah, with his wife, Wendy, Michael Isom exemplifies the power of a values-driven life, inspiring lasting prosperity, fulfillment, and significance.www.vaultais.com/bookshttps://www.facebook.com/vaultaishttps://www.facebook.com/michaelgisomResources & MentionsWhat We're Worth: Realize Your HLV (Human Life Value)... And Know What You're Really Worth by Michael Isomhttps://garrettgunderson.com/The Work of Byron KatieDan Sullivan - Strategic Coach #20: From $0 to $50M: Jay Jacobs on Redefining Success, Agency, and the Power of Surrender The Road Less Stupid by Keith CunninghamWanting What You Want by Dan SullivanThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand 

What drives top performers to succeed can also push them toward exhaustion and plateau.In this conversation, Jeff Francis — founder of ENO8 — reveals the internal patterns that quietly undermine growth. We explore the tension between control and trust, the hidden cost of over-functioning, and how leadership must evolve as your company scales.You’ll learn:How to recognize when your strengths become liabilitiesThe mindset shifts essential to moving from founder to true leaderWhat to do when delegation feels like a threat instead of a solutionLeadership habits that unlock team ownership and long-term momentumThis episode is a practical reframe for entrepreneurs facing the invisible ceiling that ambition alone can’t break.Guest BioJeff Francis is a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Dallas-based digital product studio ENO8. Jeff built ENO8 to empower companies of all sizes to design, develop and deliver innovative, impactful software — on time and on budget. With 18+ years working with both early-stage startups and enterprise product teams, Jeff has honed a unique ability to assist companies of all sizes to not only launch custom software products and mobile apps, but deliver needle-moving bottom line results.On a more personal note, Jeff’s path to entrepreneurship began at the University of North Texas where he studied Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management. He began his career as hire number one at a software startup in Dallas and was instrumental in growing it to the #1 SaaS solution for healthcare staffing. After 5 years in a senior leadership role, Jeff saw how the App Store was going to change software forever, and joined a mobile software development company as a co-founder and partner. After helping grow that business over 6 years — across more than 100 partners and projects — Jeff sold his equity stake and struck out on his own, founding ENO8 in 2016.www.ENO8.comwww.linkedin.com/in/francisjeff/Resources & Mentionskolbe.comwww.ENO8.comRich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! By Robert Kiyosakihttps://bigasscalendars.com/

What if you’ve been playing the wealth game on hard mode without knowing it? In this episode, Wesley Sierk breaks down the secret financial infrastructure used by the ultra-wealthy to protect profits, minimize tax exposure, and reduce liability—captive insurance.You'll learn:Why most entrepreneurs overpay for risk—and how to fix itHow captive insurance works to turn expenses into assetsRed flags in the financial advisory world (and how to think independently)Why mainstream wealth strategies often serve the system, not youThis is a behind-the-curtain conversation for business owners who are ready to take control, think strategically, and play the wealth game differently.Guest BioEntrepreneur | Risk Strategist | Wealth ArchitectWesley Sierk isn’t your typical insurance guy—he’s a serial entrepreneur who thrives at the intersection of risk, reward, and reinvention. With nearly three decades of experience advising closely held businesses, he’s best known as the Managing Director of Risk Management Advisors, where he builds customized captive insurance companies to help entrepreneurs protect and multiply their wealth. He began the company with his partner Jarid Beck and one assistant. They have grown the captive management company to the fifth largest in the world.But that’s just one chapter in a much bigger story.Wes is also the founder of 33 Medical Inc., a medical device company developing breakthrough solutions for degenerative disc disease, and an owner in Capitalogix, an AI-powered hedge fund that's redefining how high-net-worth investors approach the markets. Through self-improving algorithms they have been able to deliver consistent returns that dwarf the S&P500 with the volatility of government bonds.As if that weren’t enough, Wes is also the creative force behind Caliwood Pictures—a boutique film production company blending entrepreneurial storytelling with cinematic impact. Whether it’s producing thought-provoking films or developing passion projects, Caliwood reflects Wes’s belief that great stories—like great businesses—are built with intention and clarity of vision.What ties it all together? A deep belief in rational self-interest, strategic thinking, and helping business owners reclaim control—of their risks, their money, and their future.He’s authored two books for entrepreneurs and the affluent—Taken Captive and You Can Make It, But Can You Keep It?—and is one of the few professionals worldwide to earn the prestigious Associate in Captive Insurance (ACI) designation.Whether he’s working with elite athletes, entertainers, homebuilders, manufacturers, or family offices, Wes brings a mindset of intelligent design and execution. He regularly collaborates with CPAs, attorneys, and financial advisors to create structures that endure.Outside of work, Wes is a devoted husband and father, an amateur chef, and an advocate for high-performance living—which often includes hiking with his family and two massive dogs or teeing up a round of golf.https://www.instagram.com/wesleysierk/https://www.youtube.com/c/RiskManagementAdvisorsResources & MentionsWho Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Ben HardyThe MaxLife Podcast: #1: The Shocking Truth About The Energy Game That Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know with Regan ArchibaldCome Up for Air: How Teams Can Leverage Systems and Tools to Stop Drowning in Workhttps://www.angel.com/The Last Rodeo filmYou Can Make It But Can You Keep It? By Wes Sierk

Entrepreneurs and high performers are trained to optimize—strategy, systems, time. But few realize the biggest inefficiency in their life and business is emotional misalignment. In this episode, Ken Bogard reveals how his “Know Honesty” framework helps leaders dismantle ego-driven communication, build team trust faster, and unlock next-level performance. You’ll learn how to:Turn disagreements into productive breakthroughsEliminate emotional static in meetings and partnershipsUse openness as an amplifier for leadership presenceApply simple, daily tools to improve team alignment and retentionIncludes a free assessment to immediately benchmark your honesty + openness score.Guest BioKen Bogard’s "Know Honesty" approach is transforming people's lives. He is raising the bar on communication, leadership collaboration, and sparking a movement around honesty. His entrepreneurial grit and enthusiasm for positive results provides people the momentum they need to achieve what they really want. In just the last few years Ken has positively impacted over 60 organizations, 300 owners and leaders, and thousands of employees.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenbogard/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/knowhonesty/posts/?feedView=all   https://www.facebook.com/knowhonesty/ -https://www.instagram.com/knowhonesty/ https://www.tiktok.com/@knowhonestyResources & Mentionsknowhonesty.comKnow Honesty by Ken Bogard  The Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtThe Untethered Soul by Michael A. SingerTribal Leadership: Leveraging Natural Groups to Build a Thriving OrganizationGood to Great by Jim CollinsThe Pursuit of Honesty Assessment: https://knowhonesty.com/assessment/eosworldwide.com

Get Liz’s Clarity Prompt at: https://luminaryleadershipco.com/clarity or DM the word CLARITY to Liz on Instagram @elizhartke DM the word SCHEDULE  to liz on Instagram @elizhartke to get the Visionary CEO schedule!In this conversation with leadership advisor Liz Hartke, we uncover the hidden patterns that keep high performers stuck in the trap of “busy,” even when they appear successful on the surface. Liz shares the transformative mindset shifts and tactical frameworks that help entrepreneurs step fully into visionary leadership — without sacrificing their families, freedom, or fulfillment.You’ll learn:The 4 levels of leadership (and how to know which one you’re really operating from)Why hustle is often just a mask for insecurity or misalignmentHow to design your business to elevate your life — not consume itA countercultural approach to growth rooted in clarity, peace, and long-term legacyIf you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but still feel off-track, this episode is youGuest BioFor over a dozen years, Liz has served as a Business and Leadership Advisor to thousands of ambitious entrepreneurs internationally - including greats like JOHN C. MAXWELL - helping them exponentially grow in business while unlocking their God-given potential. Liz is the award winning founder and CEO of the Luminary Leadership Co. and is proud to work alongside her incredible team and husband, while also homeschooling their 4 kids from their farm property. Through her competitive masterminds, mentorship, and online programs, Liz has broken the mold on what it looks like to go from busy work, to your life’s work, while honoring the areas of life that matter most. Her expertise and unconventional wisdom has been featured in media outlets including Forbes, Fast Company and Entrepreneur. She’s personally mentored top industry leaders, and has spoken on stages throughout the world. After losing their 5th baby at 17 weeks pregnant, and experiencing a miraculous event after nearly losing her life herself, Liz is fiercely passionate about getting ambitious entrepreneurs out of the trap of busy, and into visionary leadership where they can access the intentional, meaningful, and freedom-filled lives they crave.https://luminaryleadershipco.com/https://www.instagram.com/elizhartke/Resources & MentionsGet Liz’s Clarity Prompt at: https://luminaryleadershipco.com/clarity or DM the word CLARITY to Liz on Instagram @elizhartke DM the word SCHEDULE  to liz on Instagram @elizhartke to get the Visionary CEO scheduleGreenlights by Matthew McConaugheyLiz’s Podcast: Your Big Next Podcast10X is Easier Than 2X by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Ben Hardyhttps://luminaryleadershipco.com/

In this episode, Erik Solbakken, a CPA-turned-Viking philosopher and business coach, unpacks the hidden software running your life. We dive deep into why high performers unknowingly operate from outdated mental programming—and how to start reprogramming your mindset through awareness, identity excavation, and emotional truth.You’ll learn:Why conditioning—not circumstance—is the biggest growth blocker.The power of reframing hard experiences as fuel, not failure.The overlooked role of emotional expression in sustained performance.Why the most effective growth often starts without a “method.”This is a mental reset for founders, coaches, and high performers ready to evolve.Guest BioErik Solbakken, CPA, CA, BA, is an accomplished entrepreneur, executive business coach, and strategic advisor based in North Saanich, British Columbia. With over three decades in public practice and business leadership, Erik is renowned for his transformative impact on the accounting profession and his commitment to helping individuals and organizations unlock their fullest potential.Erik’s career began in accounting, where he quickly distinguished himself as the youngest partner in his firm’s history. Over 26 years, he provided accounting, tax, and advisory services to more than 1,000 business owners, building a reputation for excellence and innovation. After selling his first accounting firm in 2015, Erik founded the Accountant Success Formula™, a pioneering executive coaching program that empowers CPAs to modernize their business models and deliver greater value to clients.Currently, Erik is a partner in Strategic Advisory at MBA CPA and an associate coach with Strategic Coach, where he mentors entrepreneurs and professionals nationwide. His mission is to help business owners and CPAs realize their unique abilities and achieve lasting success through purposeful transformation.Erik is also the creator of Viking Academy, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to personal and professional growth through the exploration of the three dimensions of being human: body, mind, and spirit. Inspired by the spirit of the ancient Vikings, the Viking Academy offers immersive experiences, knowledge, and tools designed to help individuals “wake up the Viking within” and live with passion and purpose.The Academy features a vibrant community, a podcast interviewing global experts in personal development, and resources that guide members on a journey of self-discovery and mastery. As Chief Exploration Officer, Erik brings contagious energy and deep insight, inspiring others to embrace their true selves and lead lives of meaning and impact.Erik is the author of The Accountant Success Formula and the host of The MBA Way podcast and the “Erik ‘The Viking’ Solbakken” YouTube channel. Through these platforms, he shares actionable strategies on entrepreneurship, business innovation, and holistic personal development.A strong advocate for work-life balance, Erik enjoys boating with his family in the Puget Sound and is passionate about soccer. He is also the lead singer and drummer for the Eighties metal band Reign Down, embodying his belief in living life with creativity and authenticity.Erik’s work is guided by the conviction that business owners and professionals are key drivers of positive change. Through his ventures-including the Viking Academy-he empowers others to explore, experience, and embrace their unique gifts, helping them contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriksolbakken/www.vikingacademy.comwww.accountantsuccessformula.comwww.mbacpa.comResources & MentionsDan SullivanStrategic CoachViking Academy Podcast: Exploring Greatness (Personal Development) with Gina Mollicone-LongThe Viking AcademyAccountant Success Formula

In this rich, no-BS conversation, chef and entrepreneur Ben Bebenroth unpacks his path from ego-driven hustler to values-centered founder. We break down:How military discipline and culinary intensity created early success—and masked deep personal misalignment.The warning signs of overextension and how losing it all during COVID became a gift.The mental and emotional tools that helped him reframe loss, including the “awareness, acceptance, action” framework.Why founders must unhook from their ego, get brutally honest, and build systems that regenerate rather than deplete.Tactical insights on structuring values-based businesses, and, redefining identity post-collapseHow psychedelics and honest reflection shaped a new leadership model rooted in presence, humility, and clarity.This episode is a masterclass in sustainable success—for founders ready to align mission with well-being.Guest BioChef Ben Bebenroth graduated in the top 10 of his class at Johnson & Wales in Charleston, SC, and won the university’s National “Taste Down Under” cooking contest before graduating with honors in 2004. His prize was a 5-week trip to Australia with a French Master Chef, exploring the country’s culinary scene. By 2006, Ben was back in Ohio, launching Spice Catering Co. with a mission to source top-notch local ingredients and upend the standard of catering cuisine. Fast forward to 2012, he opened the trend setting Spice Kitchen + Bar, winning “Best New Restaurant in 2013” and dominating the creative space of farm-to-table cuisine. Then came Spice Acres in 2014, a 13-acre farm in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park supplying his restaurant and catering company with unique and hours picked produce to drive his ultra seasonal menus. In 2016, Ben founded Spice Field Kitchen (501c3), a non-profit. There he began teaching students about DIY Agriculture, Culinary Skills and Nutrition in a STEM based curriculum.With 20 years of supporting local producers under his belt, Ben’s masterful approach to blending locally seasonal bounty with dynamic flavors and presentations make him the most sought-after authority of Northeast Ohio’s food scene. Making the most out of the 2020 Covid pandemic, Ben fearlessly shuttered his award-winning restaurant Spice Kitchen + Bar to innovate and dominate once again concepting and creating Boom’s Pizza. Boom’s Pizza dropped another”Best New Restaurant 2023” onto the trophy shelf as well as clinching “Best Pizza in Cleveland.” No small feat for Cleveland being such a pizza town. Today Ben can be found on the front lines of his portfolio of food service companies leveraging his Marine Corps veteran leadership skills to continually push the team to ”Be the change they want to see in the world.” This culture of accountability and radical candor make for the best work environment and customer service experience in the hospitality industry of the region.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-bebenroth/Instagram:  @ChefBenBebenrothResources & MentionsMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. FranklWhat Now? With Trevor Noah: Love on a Timeline with Esther PerelMaxLife Podcast: #19 The Science Behind Inner Mastery: How Elite Leaders Train with Joey KleinRegan Archibaldspiceheadquarters.comBoom’s PizzaSpice Field Kitchen16days.org

Steve Distante has built multiple 7- and 8-figure companies and retreats — and he doesn’t work 24/7. In this masterclass, he unpacks how to design a business like a machine (or farm) that thrives without your constant oversight. Inside, you’ll learn:The 3-part team framework Steve uses to scale without micromanagingHow to use AI and cloning tech to scale your genius, not your hoursWhy most leaders fail at accountability — and how to fix it without burnoutThis episode is a blueprint for founders ready to move from operator to architect.Guest BioSteve Distante, widely known as “The Pitchologist,” is an entrepreneur, mentor, and author revolutionizing the way founders fund, grow, and scale their businesses.• Founder & Visionary of Vanderbilt Financial Group: Leading a sustainable, impact-driven investment firm dedicated to aligning financial success with positive social and environmental change.• Founder of the Private Investor Network: A dynamic community where entrepreneurs and investors connect, pitch, fund, and track investments in the next wave of innovation.• Creator of an AI Clone: Developed an AI coaching system to provide around-the-clock insights, guidance, and strategic brainstorming.• Author: Including Pitchology: The Art and Science of Raising Capital for Entrepreneurs, and the 2024 release Once Upon a Time in Entrepreneurland, available in Spanish and as a children’s edition.• Farmer of Cally Farms: A 400-acre retreat in Georgia, where Steve and his wife, Heidi, cultivate Paulownia trees and lead transformational entrepreneurial experiences.Steve’s passion is to empower entrepreneurs with the mindset, mentorship, and momentum they need to create lasting change in the world.https://www.instagram.com/pitchology_ai/https://www.youtube.com/@pitchology_aihttps://pitchology.ai/Resources & Mentionshttps://buildkitboards.com/Pitchology: The Art & Science of Raising Capital for EntrepreneursDirt to Soil: One Family's Journey into Regenerative Agriculturepitchology.aistrategiccoach.comOnce Upon a Time in Entrepreneurland

On this episode of MaxLife, financial advisor and author Zac Larson unpacks how generosity isn’t a sacrifice — it’s a strategic advantage. From reframing giving as an investment, to creating a “Live Generously Fund,” to teaching his kids the ripple effects of small, daily generosity — this episode delivers tangible tools to build a richer life beyond just net worth. We explore:Why waiting “until you’ve made it” to give is a trapHow generosity directly fuels joy, purpose, and even productivityPractical ways to integrate generosity into everyday decisions (without 501(c)(3)s)How to rewire your personal metrics of success — starting todayPacked with frameworks, stories, and the “So what, now what?” principle, this is a blueprint for entrepreneurs who want to scale and live significantly.Guest BioZac Larson is a Co-Founder and Wealth Advisor at IntentGen Financial Partners.  For over two decades, he has grown a company that positively impacts the community by delivering exceptional value to clients, creating growth opportunities for employees, and generously supporting local organizations.  IntentGen’s purposeful approach to financial planning, asset management, and community engagement enables them to live out their mission of empowering people to live intentionally and generously.Zac is married with four children. He is active in his community by serving on non-profit boards and coaching his sons’ basketball teams.  He enjoys golf, scuba, cycling, and sports.Instagram: @larson.zacLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-larson-intentional-generous/Resources & Mentions16days.orgintentgen.com

Want to build unshakable grit and long-term success as an entrepreneur or high performer?In this high-impact episode, Gary Klaben—West Point grad, elite wealth advisor, and endurance expert—shares the exact mindset and habits that fuel high performance, even in the face of adversity.What you’ll learn:How to develop daily resilience with 6 proven habitsThe mindset shift from hustle to alignment (and why it matters)Why “being” beats “doing” for sustainable successTurning chronic setbacks into leadership leverageGrit as a competitive edge in business and lifeThis isn’t theory—it’s a battle-tested framework for founders, executives, and creatives ready to level up.Guest BioGary Klaben is the Principal of Coyle Financial, a wealth management firm near Chicago, with over 30 years of experience serving business owners and high-net-worth families through personalized, holistic planning. A West Point graduate and former infantry officer, Gary graduated top of his Ranger School class, exemplifying a lifelong dedication to service, discipline, and leadership.He is the author of several books, including Changing the Conversation: Transformational Steps to Financial and Family Well-Being, Wealth of Everything, The Business Battlefield (co-authored with Adam Blonsky), and Multi-Generational Living: The Proven Guide to Creating Stronger Families and Smarter Finances Through Intentionally Designed Shared Spaces.In addition to writing, Gary is a sought-after speaker, coach, and mentor to entrepreneurs. He holds the ChFC®, CLU®, and MSFS designations. He lives in a multigenerational family estate in Reisterstown, MD, reflecting his belief in strong family ties, intentional living, and financial clarity across [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-klaben/Resources & MentionsLong Slow Distance: The Humane Way to TrainAtomic HabitsCan’t Hurt MeHumility of the Heartyourfamilyvillage.comGary’s Book: Multi-Generational Livingcoyle.com

If you're still treating AI like a novelty, you’re falling behind. In this tactical, zero-hype conversation, Evan Ryan—founder of Teammate AI and bestselling author of AI as Your Teammate—breaks down how entrepreneurs can reclaim 5+ hours a week per person by auditing how they work.We unpack:The two biggest myths that keep teams stuck with inefficient workflowsHow to identify "hidden labor" eating your team’s potentialWhy most companies introduce AI backwards—and how to fix it fastA simple audit that reveals your highest ROI automation movesWhy grinding isn't noble—and how leaders can elevate team value insteadThis isn’t a talk about tools. It’s a playbook for bold entrepreneurs ready to lead the future—by freeing their people to do work that actually matters.Guest BioEvan Ryan is founder of Teammate AI which is on mission to automate 10 million human-hours by 2030, enabling people to focus more on work that is uniquely human.  To support Teammate AI, he authored the #1 Amazon bestselling book AI as your Teammate: Electrify Growth without Increasing Payroll.Evan is also the co-founder of One Click RFP which automatically finds and qualifies government RFPs.While growing his companies, Evan is a full-time traveler and digital nomad whose favorite places to live (so far) have been Edinburgh, Scotland, Lyon, France, Valencia, Spain, Mexico City, and the Ko Phangan, Thailand.https://teammateai.comInstagram @youraiguyResources & Mentionshttps://teammateai.comperplexity.aichatgpt.comStrategic CoachDan SullivanAI Is Your Teammate

What if scaling didn’t mean doing more—but collaborating smarter? Chad Jenkins, founder of CoLAB Partners, unpacks how the fusion of AI and human collaboration is reshaping how high performers build, lead, and scale. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why the “task economy” is dead—and what’s replacing itHow to identify friction points and structure smarter partnershipsThe VCR method to unlock vision, capability, and reachWhy AI frees you to focus on your most human contributionsA simple prompt to uncover your unique value in any roleIf you want to scale with precision and purpose, this conversation is your playbook.Guest BioChad’s ability to identify hidden opportunities has fueled his lifelong passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. As the founder of SEEDSPARK CoLAB Partners, he has developed a systematic approach to growth using the icVCR Growth Method, which helps businesses unlock their true potential by Identifying, Clarifying, and Leveraging Vision, Capability, and Reach. At the core of this method: • Vision – The ability to see opportunities where others do not, transforming insights into actionable strategies. • Capability – Recognizing and maximizing existing resources to create new value. • Reach – Expanding influence through strategic relationships and networks to scale impact. Chad also applies the ISO framework—Identify, Structure, Optimize—to help entrepreneurs turn collaboration into a strategic advantage. By identifying friction points, structuring partnerships, and optimizing for sustainable growth, businesses gain a clear, actionable roadmap to success. With over 50 ventures launched, recognition in the Inc 5000, and a proven track record with CoLAB Partners across North America, Chad has built a reputation for helping businesses transform through structured collaboration and value creation. His focus now is on empowering entrepreneurs with the processes, partnerships, and tools they need to scale effectively. If you’re ready to leverage your Vision, Capabilities, and Reach to drive exponential growth, connect with Chad at seedspark.com.seedspark.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chadtjenkins/https://seedspark.com/colabcon2025/Resources & MentionsBe Your Future Self Nowseedspark.com Dan SullivanUnique Ability 2.0CoLABcon EventShannon WallerChad’s Books: Just Add a ZeroFriction Fuel

Money doesn't solve money problems. In this episode, Jesse Mecham—founder of YNAB and pioneer of the “spendfulness” movement—reveals why even high earners feel constant financial friction. You’ll learn:Why clarity beats income when it comes to peace of mindHow to turn your spending into a reflection of who you really areThe hidden cost of “should-based” saving and debt cyclesFive daily questions to master your money, without spreadsheetsHow to live rich—even before you feel richIf you've ever felt wealthy on paper but poor in presence, this is the mindset shift you've been waiting for.Guest BioJesse Mecham created YNAB to change how people relate to money—not by budgeting tighter, but by living bigger. What began as a simple spreadsheet to cover rent as a newlywed has grown into a spendfulness movement. Now over 20 years strong, YNAB has evolved from a one-man operation into a thriving, global team with a celebrated remote culture—recognized as Fortune’s #1 best small company to work for.Jesse is the Wall Street Journal best-selling author of "You Need A Budget" and host of the top-rated “The Jesse Mecham Show” (with over 10 million downloads) and “Beginning Balance” podcasts.His work has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, CNBC, and more, challenging the status quo by encouraging people to see money as an extension of their values and goals. And while YNAB has achieved “cult-favorite” status, as described by The TODAY Show, his biggest pride remains his family. With his wife Julie and seven children to share it with, Jesse lives what he teaches—embracing a life full of purpose, woodworking, travel, and the occasional donut.To learn more, visit www.ynab.com.https://www.linkedin.com/company/ynab/Resources & Mentionshttps://www.ynab.com/The Jesse Mecham Show