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Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Dr. Kim Dang shares her journey from being a Yale professor to building a life and business aligned with her purpose. She dives into the mindset, decision-making, and strategies needed to successfully start over and create a life of fulfillment and success.
About Dr. Kim Dang:
Dr. Kim Dang is a former Yale mathematics professor turned entrepreneur, speaker, and performance coach. She is the founder of The Art of Starting Over, where she helps high achievers reinvent themselves, align with their true purpose, and achieve their biggest goals. Her expertise spans personal transformation, leadership development, and business reinvention.
In this episode, Thomas and Kim discuss:
Kim talks about how she left a prestigious career at Yale, the challenges of stepping away from an established path, and how she redefined success on her own terms.
Kim shares her proprietary framework for starting over, whether in career, business, or personal life, and how to make bold, strategic moves that lead to true fulfillment.
For many high achievers, the biggest roadblocks are internal. Kim explains how to break through mental barriers, let go of guilt, and embrace change with confidence.
Key Takeaways:
Many high achievers climb the wrong ladder, only to realize too late it’s not the life they truly want. Kim helps individuals realign their goals with their core values.
Starting over is uncomfortable, but with the right guidance and framework, you can create massive breakthroughs in both business and personal life.
Success isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about taking action. Kim stresses the importance of moving beyond learning and into execution.
“If you lose your why, you lose your way. Strong goals require bold action, and transformation starts with making the decision to change.” — Dr. Kim Dang
CONNECT WITH DR. KIM DANG:
Website: https://artofstartingover.us/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimqdang/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quietwealthcreation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quietwealthcreation/about/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie
Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Mauro Stara shares how combining leadership with fitness creates the ultimate foundation for success. As the Six Pack CEO, he dives into the mindset, discipline, and habits that drive high performers to achieve peak physical and professional performance.
About Mauro Stara:
Mauro Stara is a former banking executive turned fitness entrepreneur. With a background in corporate leadership and personal transformation, Mauro built the Six Pack CEO brand to help busy professionals balance their health, business, and personal life. Originally from Switzerland, he has lived in multiple countries and now operates globally as a fitness and leadership mentor.
In this episode, Thomas and Mauro discuss:
Mauro breaks down why physical fitness is directly tied to leadership performance, mental clarity, and business success.
Many professionals sacrifice their health in the pursuit of wealth. Mauro shares his personal story of burnout and recovery, and how he now helps executives find a sustainable balance.
Time management, motivation, and consistency are major hurdles for busy professionals. Mauro explains how to structure fitness into a packed schedule without sacrificing business growth.
Key Takeaways:
If you’re not healthy, everything else in life—business, family, wealth—becomes secondary. Mauro stresses the importance of prioritizing fitness to enhance all areas of life.
High-performing executives and entrepreneurs who take care of their physical health often exhibit stronger leadership, better decision-making, and increased productivity.
Many professionals think they need to go all-in or do nothing at all. Mauro explains why sustainability and consistency matter more than perfection in fitness and business.
“You can have all the money in the world, but if you don’t have your health, none of it matters.” — Mauro Stara
CONNECT WITH MAURO STARA:
Website: https://6packceo.com/start
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauro-stara-4b4295217/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Collin Graves shares his unorthodox journey from Special Operations support in NATO to building a thriving data analytics empire. As the founder of North Labs, Collin helps companies harness the power of their data to drive operational excellence and maximize profitability.
About Collin Graves:
Collin Graves is a former Special Ops support professional turned entrepreneur. With over 17 years in cloud computing, he founded North Labs, a company specializing in data analytics and cloud solutions for mid-market manufacturing and industrial clients. His background in military aviation and problem-solving has given him a unique perspective on leadership, business growth, and leveraging data to drive impact.
In this episode, Thomas and Collin discuss:
Collin reflects on his military service, including his experiences supporting NATO Special Operations, and how that discipline, leadership, and problem-solving mindset translated into the business world.
Collin breaks down how North Labs helps companies make sense of their existing data, improving decision-making, efficiency, and profitability.
After years of trying to be a generalist, Collin explains how focusing on manufacturing and industrial clients helped North Labs scale and establish a clear value proposition.
Key Takeaways:
Collin’s time in the military provided the grit, discipline, and leadership skills that helped him transition into business ownership and growth.
Companies are sitting on mountains of untapped data. Collin shares how unlocking this data can lead to massive efficiency improvements and financial gains.
Early in his entrepreneurial journey, Collin tried to serve too many industries. He now emphasizes the power of specializing and targeting a specific audience for long-term success.
“We help companies use the data they already have to drive better decisions, higher profits, and real operational change.” — Collin Graves
CONNECT WITH COLLIN GRAVES:
Website: https://www.northlabs.io/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collingraves/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Corey Geary shares his incredible journey from struggling with addiction to becoming a successful real estate investor and cryptocurrency expert. He dives into how he leveraged entrepreneurship to turn his life around and now teaches others how to build financial freedom through digital assets and real estate.
About Corey Geary:
Corey Geary is a real estate investor, cryptocurrency expert, and founder of the Defi Crypto Alliance. Starting in real estate wholesaling, Corey scaled his business to multiple seven figures before discovering the power of cryptocurrency. Now, he teaches entrepreneurs how to leverage digital assets for passive income and long-term wealth creation.
In this episode, Thomas and Corey discuss:
Corey opens up about his past struggles with addiction and how diving into real estate investing forced him to level up mentally, physically, and spiritually.
After years of wholesaling and flipping houses, Corey realized that crypto was the most lucrative asset class. He shares why he made the pivot and how he educates others on creating passive income with digital assets.
Crypto is highly volatile, but Corey explains how understanding market cycles can allow investors to predict price movements and maximize their returns with the right strategy.
Key Takeaways:
Corey shares how running a real estate business gave him financial success but trapped him in long hours and legal battles, leading him to seek true financial freedom.
He breaks down how crypto has created more millionaires and billionaires than any other asset class, explaining why it’s crucial to understand and leverage market cycles.
Corey emphasizes that the real goal isn’t just making money—it’s achieving the freedom to spend time with family, travel, and live life on your own terms.
“I built a seven-figure business, but it felt like a prison. Now, with crypto, I have the time and financial freedom I always wanted.” — Corey Geary
CONNECT WITH COREY GEARY:
Website: https://deficashflowsystems.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-geary-097444155/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Tim Malm shares his inspiring journey of resilience, faith, and entrepreneurship. As the founder of Stronger 413, a faith-based coffee company, he discusses overcoming adversity, finding purpose, and building a brand rooted in perseverance and service.
About Tim Malm:
Tim Malm is a former rodeo champion whose life took an unexpected turn after a devastating steer roping accident in 2010. Through faith and perseverance, he rebuilt his life, launching Stronger 413, a coffee brand inspired by Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Today, Tim’s mission is to inspire others through his story, faith, and exceptional coffee blends.
In this episode, Thomas and Tim discuss:
Tim shares the story of his accident, the immense physical and emotional recovery he endured, and how his unwavering faith carried him through the toughest times.
From an idea to a full-fledged business, Tim explains how he created a coffee brand that represents resilience, strength, and faith. He also shares his vision for expanding the brand and using it to help others.
Tim discusses his passion for helping others, the importance of using business as a force for good, and his plans to launch programs that support those in need.
Key Takeaways:
Tim’s story proves that even in the face of immense hardship, faith can provide clarity, purpose, and resilience.
Stronger 413 is not just a coffee company—it’s a mission. Tim shares how purpose-driven businesses can create real impact.
Rather than asking “Why me?” Tim has always asked “Why not me?” His mindset shift helped him turn a tragedy into a new chapter filled with inspiration and success.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Tim Malm
CONNECT WITH TIM MALM:
Website: https://stronger413.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-malm-99b367198/
Books: The Battlefield
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Gary Frayter shares his expertise in social media management, brand building, and working with high-profile clients. As a media strategist, he has managed social presence for major figures like Mike Tyson and high-profile entrepreneurs, helping them scale their online presence and thought leadership.
About Gary Frayter:
Gary Frayter is a social media strategist and brand consultant who specializes in managing and elevating the digital presence of high-profile clients. From handling social media for Mike Tyson’s Hotboxin’ podcast to helping executives build authority, Gary has developed a proven strategy to increase visibility, engagement, and brand trust.
In this episode, Thomas and Gary discuss:
Gary dives into what it takes to handle social media for celebrities, including the challenges of managing their image, staying on-brand, and handling viral moments.
For professionals and executives, standing out online is more than just posting content. Gary shares strategies for becoming a thought leader, increasing engagement, and crafting a clear brand message.
AI is becoming a tool for automation, but it doesn’t replace human creativity. Gary discusses how AI can be used effectively in social media strategy and where it falls short.
Key Takeaways:
Managing social media for executives and celebrities requires strategy, consistency, and engagement. Delegating to professionals allows businesses to focus on growth while maintaining an authoritative online presence.
People remember how you show up online. Gary emphasizes that consistency, engagement, and strategic positioning are essential to building credibility.
AI tools can assist with content creation, but the relationships, trust, and engagement that make a brand successful are built through genuine human interaction.
“You want a small, loyal audience that actually cares, rather than chasing vanity metrics.” — Gary Frayter
CONNECT WITH GARY FRAYTER:
Website: https://www.fraytermedia.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-frayter-534042100/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
InstantlyRelevant.com
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Michelle B. Griffin shares her expertise on personal branding, visibility, and narrowing your lane for business success. As the creator of the Own Your Lane framework, she helps entrepreneurs overcome obscurity, stand out, and build authority in their industries.
About Michelle B. Griffin:
Michelle B. Griffin is a personal branding strategist, author, and speaker who helps entrepreneurs and business leaders clarify their message and establish their authority. With a background in PR and marketing, she developed the Own Your Lane framework to help professionals create a recognizable, differentiated brand. Michelle specializes in helping people position themselves as industry leaders through visibility strategies and compelling storytelling.
In this episode, Thomas and Michelle discuss:
Michelle explains why building a personal brand is essential for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to establish credibility and attract the right audience.
She breaks down her Own Your Lane methodology, a step-by-step framework designed to help individuals define their brand, establish authority, and build an engaged community.
Many people struggle with visibility and self-promotion. Michelle shares practical strategies to overcome fear, craft a compelling message, and start showing up consistently.
Key Takeaways:
If you don’t know what you stand for, neither will your audience. Michelle emphasizes the importance of defining your core message and mission.
It’s not enough to be good at what you do—you need to communicate your value effectively. Michelle shares how storytelling and content creation build long-term credibility.
A personal brand isn’t just about visibility—it’s about building meaningful relationships. Michelle highlights how engagement and consistency turn connections into opportunities.
“Professional obscurity is the biggest roadblock to growth. You have to be seen and heard to make an impact.” — Michelle B. Griffin
CONNECT WITH MICHELLE B. GRIFFIN:
Website: https://michellebgriffin.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebgriffin/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
InstantlyRelevant.com
Support the show
https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie
Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Alex Sheridan shares his expertise on shifting away from traditional marketing agencies and building internal content teams that create authentic, high-performing digital content. As the founder of Impaxs, Alex is helping businesses take control of their messaging, scale their content, and drive engagement through in-house strategies.
About Alex Sheridan:
Alex Sheridan is the founder and CEO of Impaxs, a company dedicated to helping businesses transition from outsourced marketing to in-house content creation. Starting his journey by posting LinkedIn videos in 2019, Alex quickly realized the power of inbound content marketing. With a background in sales and entrepreneurship, he has built a company that empowers brands to develop their own content strategies while reducing reliance on external agencies.
In this episode, Thomas and Alex discuss:
Why Businesses Should Say Goodbye to Marketing Agencies
Alex breaks down the inefficiencies of traditional marketing agencies and explains why businesses should focus on building internal teams that understand their voice, brand, and audience.
How to Create High-Impact Content In-House
Scaling content doesn’t have to mean hiring an expensive team. Alex discusses strategies for leveraging existing employees, outsourcing smartly, and integrating AI to enhance content production.
The Future of Marketing and AI’s Role in Content Creation
AI is reshaping content marketing, but it’s not replacing human creativity. Alex explores how AI can be used effectively as a tool for content planning, writing, and automation while keeping authenticity intact.
Key Takeaways:
Marketing Agencies Often Lack Brand Alignment
Many companies feel disconnected from their marketing agencies. Alex explains how businesses can take control of their content to build stronger relationships with their audience.
Content is a Skill That Can Be Developed Internally
Creating high-quality content isn’t just for marketing pros. Alex shares how companies can train employees, use AI strategically, and streamline content creation for better engagement.
AI is a Content Accelerator, Not a Replacement for Creativity
Alex highlights how businesses can use AI to scale their content without losing authenticity, making the process faster and more efficient while maintaining brand integrity.
“If you outsource all your content, you’re outsourcing your voice. Build it in-house, and you own your brand’s future.” — Alex Sheridan
CONNECT WITH ALEX SHERIDAN:
Website: https://www.impaxs.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbsheridan/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
Support the show
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Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Max Emma shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting a bookkeeping business to successfully franchising it nationwide. As the founder of BooXkeeping, he provides insights into building a scalable business model, overcoming challenges, and navigating the world of franchising.
About Max Emma:
Max Emma is the co-founder and CEO of BooXkeeping, a nationwide bookkeeping service that specializes in working with franchise brands. With a background in finance and entrepreneurship, Max has built a business that not only provides bookkeeping services but also offers franchise opportunities. His journey includes overcoming business failures, restructuring, and ultimately creating a sustainable, scalable model.
In this episode, Thomas and Max discuss:
Max explains how his frustration with inconsistent bookkeeping quotes led him to start his own bookkeeping company, aiming to standardize pricing and improve service quality.
Max shares the process of turning BooXkeeping into a franchise, the challenges of scaling a service-based business, and the lessons learned from growing a national brand.
Not everyone is a good fit for a franchise. Max discusses how he ensures cultural fit, the importance of coachability, and why franchising isn’t for those who want to ‘reinvent the wheel.’
Key Takeaways:
A successful franchise requires clear systems and the right people who will follow the proven model, not try to rewrite it.
Max recounts how going through bankruptcy and restarting with a new approach led him to better business decisions and long-term success.
Despite advances in automation, bookkeeping still requires human oversight. Max explains how AI improves efficiency but doesn’t eliminate the need for expert financial management.
“People think bookkeeping is just about numbers, but it’s really about making business decisions with clarity.” — Max Emma
CONNECT WITH MAX EMMA:
Website: https://www.booxkeeping.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxemma/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
Email: [email protected]
InstantlyRelevant.com
Support the show
https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie
Send us Fan Mail
Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich
Brittany Cavallo shares her journey of breaking industry norms in real estate by introducing flat-fee brokerage services. As the founder of Refined Real Estate, she challenges traditional commission structures, offering a transparent and cost-effective approach to buying and selling homes.
About Brittany Cavallo:
Brittany Cavallo is the founder and owner of Refined Real Estate, a boutique real estate brokerage operating in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. With over a decade of experience in real estate, Brittany is redefining the buying and selling process by making homeownership more affordable. After facing early skepticism and resistance in the industry, she remained committed to her vision of a consumer-friendly real estate model that prioritizes affordability and transparency.
In this episode, Thomas and Brittany discuss:
Brittany breaks down how traditional commission structures have long burdened homebuyers and sellers. She shares how her business offers flat-fee pricing, ensuring clients only pay for the services they need while maintaining high-quality customer service.
Disrupting an entrenched industry comes with challenges. Brittany shares the resistance she has faced from traditional brokers, how her approach has been viewed as a threat, and why she believes that transparency and consumer empowerment will ultimately prevail.
Brittany discusses the importance of branding in a real estate business, how her firm balances offering multiple service tiers, and why staying true to her mission has helped her stand out in the crowded real estate market.
Key Takeaways:
The traditional commission-based real estate model is outdated. Brittany explains how her flat-fee approach allows clients to save tens of thousands of dollars while still receiving full-service support.
Brittany emphasizes that pushing against established norms will invite criticism, but staying committed to your vision is key to success.
By offering tiered services, Brittany ensures that homeowners receive personalized support without overpaying for unnecessary extras.
“People hate paying commissions. Why would they give away years of equity when they don’t have to?” — Brittany Cavallo
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY CAVALLO:
Website: https://www.refinedres.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-cavallore/
CONNECT WITH THOMAS:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/thelfrich | https://twitter.com/nevbeenpromoted Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hovienko | https://www.facebook.com/neverbeenpromoted
Website: https://www.neverbeenpromoted.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neverbeenpromoted/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@neverbeenpromoted
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thom
Support the show
https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie
From the publisher's feed
Cut The Tie and Own Your Success reveals how high performers think, decide, and overcome obstacles—so you can apply one actionable idea each week.
Each short episode (<10…
Insights focus on four areas where people “cut ties”: Finances, Relationships, Health, and Faith.
Guests span operators and outliers—CEOs, entrepreneurs, executives, athletes, creators, scientists, and community leaders—people who’ve cut real ties and can show you how.
Do this next
Own your success.
Cut the tie.
Thomas Helfrich
Host & Founder