From the hockey rink to the entrepreneurial arena, Jack McNamara's journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Tyler Jorgenson sits down with the former pro athlete turned beverage brand founder to unpack the wild ride that led to Tru — a performance-focused beverage company determined to disrupt a space ruled by giants. Jack shares how growing up in a sports-obsessed family, building with Legos, and training in Europe inspired him to rethink what athletes put in their bodies — and how that passion led to a full-blown beverage startup.

But it’s not all peach rings and prebiotics. Jack opens up about the curveballs that come with building a brand from scratch in one of the most competitive markets imaginable. From living in a gym with no windows to getting kicked out of his first retail placement (and eventually being welcomed back!), Jack proves that resilience, honesty, and a little bit of delusion might just be the ultimate recipe for success. And yeah — he’d really love to team up with Taylor Swift (who wouldn't?).

Whether you're dreaming of building your own billion-dollar beverage brand or just trying to figure out your next big move, this episode is packed with powerful lessons in grit, growth, and thinking one step ahead. Tune in for a rollercoaster of real talk on funding, relationships, gut health, and why solving problems keeps Jack pumped every single day.

Key Takeaways

• Delusional confidence can be a superpower: Jack credits his naivety and relentless belief in True's success as a key factor in pushing through challenges most people wouldn’t dare take on.
• Relationships are everything: Whether it's a retailer giving a second chance or investors stepping up in tough times, Jack’s honest and intentional relationship-building has paid off big time.

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — just make a better one: Instead of trying to be different in every way, Jack advises entrepreneurs to focus on one thing they can do better and make that their winning edge.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jack McNamara & Entrepreneurial Roots

06:23 From Pro Hockey to Performance Beverages: The Birth of Tru

12:14 Early Struggles, Couch Surfing & Building From the Ground Up

17:36 The Power of Delusional Optimism & Staying in the Game

24:48 Funding, Relationships & the Value of Authenticity

28:42 Big Goals, Retail Dreams & What’s Next for Tru

What if the very thing that made you successful… was also destroying you? 😳

In this powerhouse episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, host Tyler Jorgenson welcomes back Craig Ballantyne—one of only five guests to make a return appearance in 15 seasons! Craig, the productivity and discipline guru, dives into his latest book, The Dark Side of Discipline, revealing the hidden dangers of chasing discipline too hard. He shares how extreme commitment can backfire, leading to burnout, strained relationships, and even business failure. But don’t worry—Craig isn’t here to kill your motivation; he’s here to refine it!

Throughout the conversation, Craig unpacks his game-changing strategies for achieving success without sacrificing what truly matters. He talks about the importance of staying committed to routines—even when life throws chaos your way—and how his own personal journey helped him find balance. Tyler and Craig also discuss the slippery slope of overcommitment, the power of saying “not yet” instead of “no,” and how clarity in your personal definition of success can prevent you from falling into productivity traps.

From cold plunges to CrossFit, airport bathroom workouts to mastermind breakthroughs, this episode is packed with valuable insights and hilarious anecdotes. If you’ve ever felt like you were chasing discipline at the expense of your happiness or business growth, this episode will help you hit the reset button. Craig’s wisdom will challenge you to rethink your approach to discipline and focus on what truly drives success. Plus, don’t miss his thoughts on partnerships, in-person connections, and why the “hustle culture” mindset might be holding you back.

Get ready for eye-opening insights, game-changing strategies, and a whole new way to win—without burning out. Let’s go! 🎙️🔥

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1. Discipline Can Be a Double-Edged Sword – Being too rigid can lead to burnout, broken relationships, and lost priorities. Make sure your discipline aligns with what truly matters in your life.
2. Get Crystal Clear on Your Definition of Success – If you don’t know exactly what you’re working toward, you might end up succeeding in the wrong direction. Take time to visualize your ideal life.
3. The Power of Saying “Not Yet” Instead of “No” – Entrepreneurs often struggle with turning down opportunities, but delaying something until the right time can be the key to long-term success.
4. Accountability is Your Secret Weapon – Having someone to check in with can prevent you from making emotionally-driven decisions that pull you off track.
5. In-Person Connection is More Valuable Than Ever – In a world shifting toward AI and virtual interactions, real human relationships and live events will always be a competitive advantage.

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Connect with Craig

Want more wisdom from Craig? Here’s where you can find him:

🌎 Website: www.craigballantyne.com
📩 Newsletter: Sign up for Craig’s powerful daily emails at www.earlytorise.com
📱 Instagram: @realcraigballantyne
🐦 Twitter/X: @CraigBallantyne
 

For coaching, books, and high-performance strategies, Craig has got you covered. Go check him out! 🚀🔥

From carpenter to ultra-endurance athlete to high-performance coach, Croix Sather has mastered the art of reinvention. In this episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, host Tyler Jorgenson dives deep into Croix’s journey—how he transformed from a tradesman into a motivational powerhouse, running a marathon a day for 100 days across America while giving daily speeches. Through endurance, mindset mastery, and an unstoppable belief in himself, Croix forged a path that defies the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.

But his journey didn’t stop there. After becoming a sought-after speaker, delivering TEDx talks, and living nomadically for seven years, Croix realized that true success isn't just about making money—it’s about crafting a life that fuels your passion. He shares his experiences of traveling the world, immersing himself in different cultures, and reprogramming his mindset to break through limitations. His story is one of bold action, relentless perseverance, and a refusal to accept the status quo.

Now, with his latest project, Unstoppable Morning, Croix is helping others create powerful, success-driven routines that set the tone for an unstoppable life. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or someone looking for that next breakthrough, this episode will inspire you to take the leap, push your limits, and design a future that excites you. Get ready to fuel your fire and unleash the unstoppable version of YOU!

Takeaways

🔥 You Are More Capable Than You Think – A year before running across America, Croix wasn’t even a runner. Massive change is possible if you commit and take action.

🏆 Your Story is Your Power – Creating a unique, compelling personal story can be the key to standing out in competitive industries. Croix leveraged his endurance feat to land high-ticket speaking gigs.

💡 Mindset is Everything – Whether it’s running 100 marathons, building a business, or shifting careers, success starts in your mind first. Reprogramming your thoughts and habits daily can be the difference between success and stagnation.

🌍 Experience Shapes Perspective – Traveling the world, witnessing different cultures, and immersing yourself in new environments fosters gratitude and shifts the way you see life and business.

🚀 Structure Your Morning, Transform Your Life – The Unstoppable Morning Routine is designed to create mental clarity, physical energy, and a success-driven mindset. Start strong, win the day!

Ready to be UNSTOPPABLE? 💥 Listen now and start building the life you truly want! 🎧

Connect with Croix

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• LinkedIn

🔥 Welcome to Season 15 of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio! 🔥 

We’re kicking off with a game-changing episode featuring AI innovator and entrepreneur Jeff Vanasdal. From printing high school t-shirts to building high-powered AI-driven tools like Bot Mockups and List Builder, Jeff’s journey is packed with creative problem-solving, relentless hustle, and a deep passion for making businesses more efficient. He shares how a simple high school side hustle led to a lifelong career in entrepreneurship, proving that big ideas can start small—sometimes with just a Sharpie, some wax paper, and a dream.

🚀 AI is revolutionizing business, and Jeff is at the forefront. He’s helping brands automate customer interactions, grow massive email lists, and turn social media engagement into real revenue—all with the power of AI-driven chatbots and automation. From Bentley dealerships to tree trimming businesses, his strategies are showing entrepreneurs how to work smarter, not harder. If you’ve ever wondered how AI could streamline your business, this episode is packed with insider tips on giveaways, AI-driven sales funnels, and automation hacks that will blow your mind.

💡 But it’s not just about business—it’s about building a life you love. Jeff shares his personal goals, including his dream of traveling to Hawaii and growing his YouTube magazine passion projects. He reminds us that being an entrepreneur is about creating freedom, exploring opportunities, and staying ahead of the curve. Tyler and Jeff break down exactly how AI is changing the game, why business owners need to embrace it now, and how to leverage it for massive growth without massive stress.

Takeaways

✅ Entrepreneurs are natural problem solvers. Jeff started by making stickers and t-shirts, and that creative hustle led to a career in AI-driven business solutions.

✅ AI is here to stay, and it’s reshaping how businesses interact with customers. Whether through automated DMs, SMS bots, or self-selling AI, companies that embrace these tools are staying ahead of the curve.

✅ Giveaways aren’t just for fun—they’re a massive business growth strategy. Jeff’s AI-driven list-building techniques have helped businesses grow their leads by tens of thousands with zero ad spend.

✅ You need to OWN your audience. Social media is great, but an email list is your business’s real asset. The algorithm can change, but your direct audience connection is priceless.

✅ AI isn’t taking jobs—it’s freeing up time. Business owners who leverage AI tools are saving hours, booking more appointments, and focusing on what really matters: growth and creativity.

Chapters

00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins

02:51 From T-Shirts to Sales Funnels

06:01 Innovating with AI in Business

09:02 Understanding AI Chatbots

11:59 The Power of AI in Customer Engagement

15:21 Case Studies: Successful AI Implementations

18:00 The Future of AI in Business

20:51 Personal Aspirations and Travel Goals

In this episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, host Tyler Jorgenson dives into the innovative world of industrial repurposing with Damon Carson, founder of repurposedMaterials. Damon shares how his company gives discarded industrial items a second life, transforming waste into valuable resources. From rubber conveyor belts used in farming to old street sweeper brushes turned into livestock back scratchers, Damon's creative approach embodies the principles of reuse, resourcefulness, and environmental sustainability. His entrepreneurial journey, inspired by both rural roots and early exposure to industrial waste, showcases the power of seeing potential in what others discard.

Damon recounts his early challenges and triumphs, including the pivotal moment in 2010 when a simple suggestion about billboard vinyls sparked a whole new business idea. He discusses the logistical hurdles of sourcing and storing industrial waste, as well as the ingenuity required to match materials with customers' needs. From partnering with major corporations like Apple to providing solutions for industries ranging from trucking to agriculture, Damon's business model proves that one company's trash can indeed become another's treasure.

Throughout the conversation, Damon also offers insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of taking calculated risks and starting with "baby steps." With over 15 million pounds of material saved from landfills annually, Repurposed Materials is not only a thriving business but also a testament to the ecological and economic benefits of innovation. Tune in to hear Damon’s remarkable journey and how you can think outside the box—whether you’re an entrepreneur or simply someone looking to make a difference.

1. The Power of Repurposing: Repurposing industrial waste can reduce environmental impact while creating valuable business opportunities. Damon's approach showcases the benefits of finding second lives for discarded items.
2. Innovation Through Resourcefulness: Success often lies in seeing potential where others see waste. Listening to customers and leveraging creative thinking can lead to surprising and impactful solutions.
3. Entrepreneurial Wisdom: Start small, manage risks, and take incremental steps to grow a business. Damon’s story illustrates how "baby steps" and calculated gambles can lead to significant breakthroughs.
4. Strategic Scaling: Expanding a logistics-heavy business like Repurposed Materials required careful planning, from locating warehouses to hiring the right people. Strategic choices can help manage complexity.
5. Environmental and Economic Impact: Beyond profitability, Damon’s work underscores the importance of sustainability, with millions of pounds of material diverted from landfills every year.

Pierce Wiley’s entrepreneurial journey is an inspiring blend of innovation, persistence, and redefining norms. From middle school days of selling CDs to co-founding Rebel Rabbit, a THC-infused seltzer company, Pierce shares how his passion for challenging the mainstream fueled his success. Rebel Rabbit is more than a beverage; it’s a movement to redefine social drinking, offering a productive and health-conscious alternative to alcohol. Pierce and his co-founder, Billy, started with the simple goal of creating a drink for those who don’t consume alcohol, solving a critical gap in the social experience.

The conversation delves into the challenges they faced as newcomers in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. From finding the right co-packer to managing distribution in conservative markets, Rebel Rabbit’s journey is a testament to creativity and perseverance. Their success inspired the creation of Upstate Beverage Consultants, a co-packing company designed to support emerging brands by addressing the hurdles Rebel Rabbit had overcome. Pierce’s reflection on the “productivity tax” of alcohol emphasizes the value of alternatives for entrepreneurs aiming to maximize their potential.

Rebel Rabbit embodies the spirit of rebellion—challenging societal norms and offering something unique. Pierce also shares the importance of balancing entrepreneurial hustle with personal goals, such as spending more time with his young daughter. Learn more about this groundbreaking brand and its mission to transform the way people drink at  Rebel Rabbit, where redefining social drinking isn’t just a tagline—it’s their mission.

1. The Birth of Rebel Rabbit: Pierce Wiley and Billy’s innovative approach to creating a THC-infused seltzer provides a refreshing solution for non-drinkers in social settings while addressing the “productivity tax” of alcohol consumption.
2. Overcoming Challenges: From navigating the complexities of CPG production to finding innovative partnerships, Rebel Rabbit’s journey highlights the power of persistence and collaboration.
3. Expanding Horizons: With plans to dominate the Florida market and beyond, Rebel Rabbit continues to grow while staying true to its mission of redefining social drinking and offering a healthier, more inclusive lifestyle choice.

Isco Spirits is not your typical distillery. Founded by Manya Rubenstein and located in an old steel mill in Providence, Rhode Island, Isco stands as the city’s first distillery since Prohibition. With deep ties to the local artisan community and a commitment to sustainable practices, Isco produces a range of unique, handcrafted spirits. Their products, like Structural Vodka and Blue Velvet Bourbon, aren't just drinks—they’re stories in a bottle. By incorporating elements of regenerative farming and coastal inspiration, Isco creates products that reflect the history and natural beauty of Rhode Island, blending creativity, craftsmanship, and eco-consciousness into every sip.

Manya’s entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in adaptability. Opening the distillery in March 2020, right as the world was shutting down due to the pandemic, required bold pivots and quick thinking. Originally designed to welcome guests into a tasting room experience, Isco quickly shifted to making hand sanitizer and engaging with customers through direct sales. From that challenging beginning, Isco evolved into a brand known for its imaginative offerings like Ostrata, a vodka distilled with oysters, and Sea Flow gin, which incorporates seaweed as a key ingredient. These products are inspired by Rhode Island’s coastal heritage and highlight Manya’s goal of using spirits as a medium for storytelling.

At the heart of Isco is a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community. From supporting local farms and reusing spent grains to crafting spirits that honor the ocean, Isco’s approach extends far beyond production. Their “Night of Cheer” holiday event showcases their passion for giving back, collecting donations for local causes while bringing people together for a festive experience. With plans for expanded distribution and new products on the horizon, Manya's vision remains clear: create exceptional, thoughtful spirits that spark connection, tell stories, and celebrate the place they call home.

• Resilience Sparks Innovation: Isco's ability to pivot during the 2020 pandemic shows how entrepreneurs can turn adversity into opportunity, finding creative ways to stay relevant and connected with their audience.
• Sustainability Creates a Competitive Edge: By focusing on regenerative farming, eco-friendly production, and coastal conservation, Isco isn't just making spirits—they’re building a movement. Their use of oysters, seaweed, and farm-grown grains differentiates them in the competitive distilling industry.
• Storytelling as a Brand Strategy: Isco Spirits tells a larger story through its products, branding, and community events like "Night of Cheer." By weaving local history, environmental awareness, and artistry into each spirit, Isco builds a deeper emotional connection with consumers.

Fran Maier, a pioneering entrepreneur and co-founder of Match.com, joins host Tyler Jorgenson to share her journey and insights into entrepreneurship. Fran discusses her latest venture, BabyQuip, the leading baby gear rental service designed for traveling families. She recounts the inspiration behind BabyQuip and highlights how it solves the challenge of traveling with children by providing safe, clean, and accessible baby equipment. Fran also touches on her entrepreneurial journey, from her early days in marketing to building iconic brands like Match.com by emphasizing trust and safety.

BabyQuip’s innovative gig-economy model empowers moms and other caregivers to become "Quality Providers," allowing them to earn income by renting out baby gear while helping traveling families. Fran explains how the platform’s focus on trust, safety, and cleanliness sets it apart from competitors. She shares how BabyQuip survived the challenges of the pandemic and continues to grow, with over 2,000 markets globally and exciting plans for expansion into pet and outdoor gear rentals.

In addition to her work at BabyQuip, Fran reflects on lessons learned as an entrepreneur, such as embracing change and solving problems incrementally. Her dedication to fostering female entrepreneurship and her ability to adapt to shifting markets underscore her success. Fran shares her excitement about upcoming partnerships and her personal plans for the year, including travel and relaxation after a challenging period in her life.

1. Entrepreneurial Resilience: Fran emphasizes the importance of embracing change, taking risks, and tackling challenges step-by-step to build successful businesses.
2. Empowering Entrepreneurs: BabyQuip enables individuals, especially moms, to generate income while balancing family life through its innovative gig-economy model.
3. Trust and Safety: Creating a trustworthy brand by focusing on customer safety and satisfaction is a cornerstone of Fran’s success.

In this episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, host Tyler Jorgenson sits down with Jonny Locarni, founder of Magic Cactus, a unique brand creating alcohol alternatives infused with hemp and functional ingredients. Jonny shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting with hustling as a young adult, to creating a product that fills a distinct market gap. He discusses the challenges of developing a commercially viable drink that provides the social experience of alcohol minus its negative effects. Tyler and Jonny dive deep into navigating regulations, consumer insights, and how Magic Cactus offers a mindful and inclusive drinking alternative to alcohol.

Jonny explains the evolution of Magic Cactus from early formulation hurdles, like using coconut water, to finding the perfect balance with cactus water, which aligns with their brand’s Arizona roots and offers health benefits without excess sugar. The two also explore the complexities of creating a brand that appeals to a broader audience, focusing not just on sobriety but on mindful consumption, showing how Magic Cactus is changing the way people approach social drinking. They also discuss the brand’s vision for the future, regulatory hopes, and how they aim to expand their footprint.

The episode closes with a reflection on building a brand that goes beyond selling a product by creating a community and reshaping perceptions around alcohol alternatives. Jonny’s story highlights how branding, purpose, and market timing are pivotal to success. Listeners are encouraged to check out Magic Cactus and join their mission of creating a non-toxic and socially engaging drink alternative. Visit magiccactus.com to learn more.

1. Entrepreneurial Spark & Innovation: Jonny Locarni’s journey demonstrates how early business ventures can ignite a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship, leading to innovative solutions such as Magic Cactus, which offers a unique, healthier alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
2. Formulation Challenges & Branding: Developing a commercially viable product requires overcoming multiple hurdles, including consumer taste preferences and nutritional balance. Magic Cactus’s pivot from coconut water to cactus water shows how adapting to feedback can lead to better product alignment and brand storytelling.
3. Mindful Drinking & Market Positioning: Magic Cactus isn’t solely about promoting sobriety but encouraging mindful consumption. The brand’s inclusive approach aims to cater to a broad spectrum of consumers, offering an alternative that bridges the gap between traditional drinking and healthier choices, while donating 10% of profits to support substance abuse treatment initiatives.

In this episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, Tyler Jorgenson sits down with Marian Leitner-Waldman, co-founder of Archer Roose Wines. Marian shares her unconventional journey from working in finance to building a successful wine company that aims to disrupt the traditional wine industry. Archer Roose was born from her desire to create high-quality wine in an approachable, sustainable format like cans, a concept inspired by her love for storytelling and connection. Marian's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to sustainability are evident as she discusses the challenges of innovating in an industry that is traditionally resistant to change, especially for women.

Marian delves into the early struggles Archer Roose faced, from gaining trust among winemakers to finding product-market fit. The company took four years to launch its first product and spent significant time understanding consumer preferences. By focusing on transparency and a fun, non-intimidating brand, Archer Roose was able to introduce canned wine as a viable alternative to bottles, particularly targeting consumers who desire moderation and control over their consumption. The conversation highlights Marian’s vision of making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone, while also addressing larger environmental concerns.

Toward the end, Marian shares her exciting journey of partnering with actress and businesswoman Elizabeth Banks, who became a co-owner of Archer Roose. Marian emphasizes the importance of maintaining product quality, investing in research, and ensuring that the wine inside the can is as good as the brand’s marketing. Archer Roose is now expanding its presence in major retailers like Target and Sprouts, as well as being served at Regal Cinemas and Vail Resorts, continuing to push the boundaries of the wine industry.

For more about Archer Roose Wines, visit ArcherRoose.com and explore their collection of sustainable wines that are both environmentally conscious and perfect for the modern lifestyle.