In this solo episode of 365 Driven, host Tony Whatley pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood topics in entrepreneurship: private equity, mergers & acquisitions, and what "exits" really look like in the real world.

Tony starts with hard data that every founder needs to hear—how many businesses actually survive 5 and 10 years, how few ever sell, and why the "big exit" stories on social media distort expectations. He then breaks down how businesses are valued (including multiples and transaction realities), why the median business sale is far lower than most entrepreneurs assume, and what makes a company truly attractive to buyers.

From there, Tony shares his perspective on the private equity business model—why firms sometimes "overpay," how roll-ups work, what changes after an acquisition, and why founders should think carefully about transition timelines once they suddenly have a large payout and a new boss. He also addresses the criticism founders often face when they sell, how to think about exits through the lens of business cycles and personal goals, and why complaining about industry consolidation is never a strategy.

If you're building with the hope of one day selling—or you want to understand how to increase your valuation, protect your team, and position yourself for a smart exit—this episode delivers the real talk most entrepreneurs don't get until it's too late.

Key highlights:

• Why exits are rarer than entrepreneurs think

• The reality of business survival rates (Year 1, 5, and 10)

• How many businesses actually sell—and why the number is so low

• The truth about average business sale prices

• Public reactions to acquisitions: sellouts vs success

• How private equity roll-ups really work

• The hidden downside of staying on post-exit

• Choosing the right buyer vs the highest multiple

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com

• Instagram: @365driven

Facebook: 365 Driven

AI is rewriting the rules of entrepreneurship—and Julia McCoy's story proves why the winners won't be the ones working harder, but the ones working smarter. Tony Whatley welcomes Julia —business, marketing, and AI expert—to a conversation that pulls no punches about what's next for entrepreneurs…and what's at stake if you ignore it.

After a meteoric run in AI (including building a YouTube audience of 200,000+), Julia shares how a sudden health crisis forced her to rebuild her business from the ground up—often working in 10-minute increments from her phone. That constraint led to an unexpected breakthrough: using AI the right way, not to replace the human, but to replace the grind. Tony and Julia dig into AI "clones," why transparency matters, and how training AI with your voice and expertise can help founders scale content without losing authenticity.

Then the conversation goes deeper. Julia explains how her search for answers took her beyond conventional approaches and into research on frequency, bioelectric health, and the future impact of quantum technology—raising big questions about innovation, truth, and what entrepreneurs should pay attention to next.

If you're building a business in a world being reshaped by AI, automation, and emerging tech—and you want a real conversation about leveraging these tools without losing your values—this episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your perspective.

Key highlights:

• How to use AI to scale your business without losing your voice
• Why AI should replace the work—not the human
• Building and training AI avatars/clones as an extension of your expertise
• Turning crisis and constraint into innovation and leverage
• Creating high-impact content with AI in minutes, not hours
• Why most entrepreneurs misuse AI—and how to avoid generic output
• What quantum technology and frequency may mean for the future of business and health

Connect with Julia McCoy:

• YouTube: Julia McCoy
• Website: FirstMovers.ai

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven

Marketing maestro Eric Huberman joins the 365 Driven Podcast to share his captivating entrepreneurial journey, from his childhood ventures selling lemonade and flowers to building Hawke Media, a powerhouse in digital marketing. Eric's path is a testament to the tenacity and creativity required to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape. His insights on the importance of maintaining financial health and enjoying the entrepreneurial ride to prevent burnout offer aspiring entrepreneurs a blueprint for sustainable success.

The conversation unfolds with Eric's passion for marketing, delving into the challenges and complexities that make this field so dynamic. Eric explains how a genuine interest in a subject can lead to discovering one's calling, supported by anecdotes about his business beginnings and the story behind Hawke Media's name. Eric shares valuable lessons on nurturing potential customers, building trust, and the role of brand validation in successful sales cycles.

An exploration of AI's impact on marketing and business futures takes the spotlight, with Eric providing a grounded perspective on the overhyped claims of AI's disruptive potential. Reflecting on the authenticity required in both professional and personal realms, Eric warns against superficial status symbols and emphasizes the importance of genuine passion. This episode wraps up with the wisdom of experience, highlighting the significant role of community knowledge sharing for entrepreneurial growth. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone aiming to leave a mark in the business world.

Key highlights:

• Marketing Passion and Business Beginnings
• Navigating Challenges in Business and Marketing
• Building Trust and Sales With Marketing
• Future of Marketing and AI
• Impact of AI on Future Business
• Sharing Entrepreneurial Wisdom for Growth

Connect with Erik Huberman:

• Website: hawkemedia.com
• Instagram: @erikhuberman

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven

Renowned YouTube strategist Nate Woodbury joins The 365 Driven Podcast to uncover the magic of using YouTube for smarter lead generation. While viral fame might seem tempting, Nate reveals how answering specific, long-tail questions on YouTube can attract a dedicated audience looking for your expertise. He unravels the journey from web design to mastering YouTube, emphasizing the art of nurturing prospects over traditional marketing to position yourself as a trusted authority in your field.

Explore the dynamic between nurturing and marketing as Nate and Tony discuss the real power of search-driven content. Viral hits may garner attention, but targeted content ensures you are connecting with potential clients genuinely interested in your offerings. Discover how transforming YouTube videos into blog posts enhances searchability, and how platforms like Reddit can amplify your online presence.

Tackling camera shyness, this episode covers practical tips to boost your confidence on screen, likening it to a learnable skill akin to public speaking. By focusing on authenticity, personal experience, and a minimalist content approach, you can harness YouTube to grow your business without the overwhelm of technical barriers. Whether you're an aspiring YouTuber or an entrepreneur seeking to maximize online visibility, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your content creation journey and achieve meaningful engagement.

Key highlights:

• YouTube Strategy for Lead Generation

• The Value of Nurturing vs Marketing

• YouTube as a Lead Generator

• Content Strategy for Expertise Impact

• Maximizing YouTube Lead Generation Strategy

• Overcoming Fear of Camera Shyness

• Leveraging Shareability for Business Growth

Connect with Nate Woodbury:

• Sign up for Nate's free webinar: theleafstrategy.com

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com

• Instagram: @365driven

• Facebook: 365 Driven

Melanie Herschorn, a trailblazer in book marketing and writing, reveals the winding path of her career that took her from celebrity PR to entrepreneurship and beyond. She shares the emotional rollercoaster of launching a successful breastfeeding clothing line on Nordstrom and Amazon, only to face a setback from a hiring misstep. Melanie's story exemplifies the unpredictable nature of career transitions and underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability when navigating professional challenges. Melanie now helps leaders turn their expertise into well-written, strategic, and marketable books.

Together, Tony and Melanie unpack the fears that stop most people from writing—imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and worrying that "no one will care." Melanie explains why those fears are normal but misguided, and why a book remains one of the strongest credibility builders in business today. They explore the difference between fleeting content and evergreen authority, the truths and myths of the publishing world, the predatory traps authors should avoid, and what book marketing really looks like after launch.

Whether you've been told your whole life that you "should write a book," or you're just now considering how authorship could elevate your brand, this conversation will inspire you to finally get the ideas out of your head and into a book that can change your business—and your confidence—forever.

Key highlights:

• Navigating Career Transitions and Building Expertise

• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an Author

• Crafting Emotion and Memorable Stories

• Mastering the Writing Process and Marketing

• Strategies and Pitfalls in Book Marketing

• Maximizing Book Marketing and Author Success

Connect with Melanie Herschorn:

• Instagram: @bigimpactbooks

• Website: yourbigimpactbook.com

• Book a call with Melanie: meetmelanie.vip

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com

• Instagram: @365driven

• Facebook: 365 Driven

I bought another car. Although it's not an expensive car, it's valuable to me. This is the story behind it, and what memories it brings back.

2000 Pontiac Firebird Formula WS6

LS1 5.7L V8, 6-Speed Manual

Navy Blue Metallic, Hardtop

20K miles, original owner!

Could you be letting thousands of dollars slip through your fingers by not understanding the latest tax laws? Renowned tax strategy expert Tyler McBroom is on the 365 Driven podcast to uncover essential tax savings strategies every business owner should know. With the year-end looming, Tyler reveals the significance of proactive tax planning and how leveraging the right tax codes can allow you to reinvest in your business rather than handing over your hard-earned money to the IRS.

Tyler breaks down recent tax legislation changes, clarifying deductions that benefit both individuals and business owners. Tyler demystifies the often confusing terrain of tax deductions, like those for overtime and tips, and offers fresh insights into payroll taxes and Social Security. Get acquainted with the $6,000 senior deduction for those over 65 and understand how these shifts can enhance your financial planning, whether you're itemizing or taking the standard deduction.

Whether you're a new S-corp owner, a seasoned entrepreneur, or someone managing a side hustle, understanding the tax advantages available to you can lead to significant savings. From the nuances of LLCs and maintaining accurate records with tools like QuickBooks, to maximizing deductions through bonus depreciation and home office claims, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Together, Tyler and Tony stress the importance of scheduling proactive meetings with your accountant, especially as the holiday rush draws near, so you can optimize your tax strategy and ensure your financial decisions are timely and effective.

Key highlights:

• Tax Savings Strategies for Business Owners
• Tax Deductions Simplified for Individuals
• Tax Advantages for Business Owners
• Tax Benefits of Bonus Depreciation
• Maximizing Home Office Tax Deductions
• Tax Planning Strategies for Business Owners

Connect with Tyler McBroom:

• Instagram: @tylermcbroom

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven

Dreams don't have expiration dates—and Ron Rubin proves it. In this inspiring episode of the 365 Driven Podcast, host Tony Whatley sits down with the former CEO of The Republic of Tea and current owner of River Road Family Vineyards and Winery. Ron reveals how a passion he discovered in his 20s took four decades to come true, and why perseverance, patience, and smart business practices were the keys to making it happen.

From scaling The Republic of Tea into a household name to running a debt-free winery in Sonoma, Ron shares powerful lessons on brand building, culture, and staying true to your vision. He opens up about succession planning with his son, the value of mentors and consultants, and why consistency and focus matter more than chasing trends.

Whether you're a new entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, Ron's story will remind you that big dreams are worth the wait—and that with discipline, creativity, and heart, you can build businesses that last generations.

Key highlights:

• How Ron Rubin turned a 40-year dream into reality.
• Why staying debt-free can transform your business.
• The strategy behind building The Republic of Tea into a specialty brand.
• Lessons in branding, packaging, and staying true to your company's DNA.
• How to create a memorable company culture that people love.
• Smart succession planning and preparing the next generation of leaders.
• The value of mentors, consultants, and outside perspectives.
• Why focusing on existing customers can fuel exponential growth.
• How philanthropy and business can work hand-in-hand to save lives.
• Encouragement to never give up on your dream—no matter how long it takes.

Connect with Ron Rubin:

• Website: republicoftea.com

• Get Ron's book: goldinyourbackyard.com

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven

How do luxury brands like Rolex manage to captivate their audience and command premium prices despite the myriad of cheaper alternatives? Tune in to this episode of the 365 Driven podcast as David Shloss unravels the intricacies of luxury marketing and consumer psychology. David draws intriguing parallels between the sale of high-ticket luxury items and the challenges faced in marketing more affordable digital products. This episode also touches on the nuanced art of authentic personal branding, both online and offline—something David and Tony have found crucial in their careers.

This conversation ventures into the often misunderstood world of entrepreneurship. Through personal anecdotes and insights, David and Tony emphasize the value of recognizing one's place in the business landscape, whether as an entrepreneur or a dedicated employee, and explore the importance of understanding business valuation and exit strategies for sustained success.

From redefining career paths to nurturing creativity, David and Tony celebrate the evolution of professional identities. David shares his journey of breaking free from the confines of traditional roles, opting instead to cultivate a dynamic professional persona. He explains aligning personal passions with career pursuits and the impact of referral networking in business growth. By sharing stories of building relationships and offering genuine support, this episode highlights the power of community and the joy of teaching and mentoring.

Key highlights:

• Marketing, Luxury, and Entrepreneurship
• Journey to Entrepreneurship and Success
• The Evolution of Entrepreneurship
• Evolving Identity and Career Paths
• Referral Networking for Business Growth
• Building Relationships and Networking Skills
• Navigating Unrealistic Expectations in Marketing

Connect with David Schloss:

• Website: convertroi.com

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven

Digital marketing maestro Akbar Sheikh joins the 365 Driven podcast to share his potent strategies for crafting lead magnets, funnels, and traffic-driving content. What if your business could thrive through the power of authenticity and alignment? Akbar shares his journey from financial and emotional hurdles to triumph, illustrating how foundational growth can trump quick wins. You'll hear how impactful messaging can transform your brand, helping you connect with specific audiences. His unique blend of humor and honesty highlights the transformative power of effective communication over the pitfalls of poor messaging that can stymie a business's growth.

Akbar unravels the essence of personal development and success as the bedrock of collaboration and business growth. Through Akbar's journey from financial struggles to triumph, this episode sheds light on the necessity of foundational growth over chasing quick wins. Akbar's insights from his experiences in LA remind us of the importance of composed decision-making under pressure, which can be the key to thriving in high-stakes environments.

Listeners will be inspired by Akbar's candid reflections on authenticity and the energetic alignment in marketing. As Akbar shares his journey through the challenges of transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, this episode highlights the mindset shifts required for success. Akbar's personal experiences emphasize the power of perseverance and authenticity in business and life, encouraging you to embrace your unique qualities.

Key highlights:

• Importance of Marketing and Personal Branding
• Achieving Excellence and Success in Business
• Authenticity and Energetic Alignment in Marketing
• Journey to Business Success

Connect with Akbar Sheikh:

• Website: akbarsheikh.com

Connect with Tony Whatley:

• Website: 365driven.com
• Instagram: @365driven
• Facebook: 365 Driven