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Cut The Tie Podcast with Frances Schagen
What happens when your business starts running you instead of the other way around? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Frances Schagen—a digital nomad, serial entrepreneur, and systems strategist—who traded a two-bedroom condo in downtown Toronto for a suitcase and a beachside work-life.

Frances shares the wisdom she’s gained from building and exiting businesses, ditching the unnecessary, and designing a life where her business supports her—not the other way around. If you’ve ever thought about cutting ties with your stuff, your schedule, or your stress, this episode will show you what’s possible.

About Frances Schagen

Frances Schagen is a serial entrepreneur and digital nomad helping business owners take control of their time, systems, and life design using AI and smart business strategy. With a background in project management, engineering science, accounting, and small business ownership—including a successful bookkeeping firm—Frances brings a deeply practical and human approach to business transformation. She currently helps overwhelmed entrepreneurs simplify, scale, and structure their businesses to support the life they actually want to live.

In this episode, Thomas and Frances discuss:

• The real cost of clutter
  Frances shares how cutting ties with her physical possessions and home base helped her fully embrace a life of location freedom.
• From spreadsheets to warm hugs
  Despite her technical skills, Frances’s clients describe working with her as “a warm cup of tea”—a rare mix of structure and empathy.
• Just-in-time learning for sanity
  She explains how ditching “just-in-case” learning saves time and mental space for what really matters in business.
• Freedom by design, not default
  Her transition into digital nomadism didn’t happen overnight—but it did happen by choice and with intention.

Key Takeaways:

• Freedom starts with subtraction
  Letting go of things—physical, emotional, or strategic—is the first step to designing a life on your terms.
• You probably only need 100 clients, not 10,000 followers
  Most businesses are chasing scale when they just need clarity and fit.
• Don’t be owned by your business
  Your business should enable your lifestyle, not consume it.
• Life’s too short for just-in-case learning
  Learn what you need, when you need it. Let the rest go.
• The real work is deciding what you won’t do
  You can’t do it all—and you don’t need to.

Connect with Frances Schagen:

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesschagen/
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://frances.business/

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:

🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/thelfrich
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutthetie
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
🌐 Website: https://www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 Instantly Relevant: https://www.instantlyrelevant.com

Support the show

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Cut The Tie Podcast with Antwon Davis
What happens when success makes you soft? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Antwon Davis, founder of 4THPARK and Enclave Co-Living, to talk about the uncomfortable, necessary act of redefining manhood, discipline, and purpose.

From building two successful businesses to stepping into a new season of personal leadership, Antwon opens up about the ties he’s cut—from generational norms to physical complacency—and how he’s actively rebuilding his life with ruthless intention. If you’re a man in midlife searching for more than money, this one will hit home.

About Antwon Davis

Antwon Davis is a serial entrepreneur based in Atlanta, Georgia. He’s the founder of 4THPARK, a digital intelligence agency helping organizations build exceptional brand systems, and Enclave Co-Living, a real estate venture addressing mid-tier housing needs for students, young professionals, and remote workers. With over 13 years in business, Antwon’s journey reflects a deep commitment to ownership, legacy, and self-mastery.

In this episode, Thomas and Antwon discuss:

• Cutting the family script
  Antwon breaks the mold as the first documented entrepreneur in his family, choosing business ownership over traditional career paths.
• How 4THPARK was born from identity and intention
  He shares how the agency name reflects his personal journey—launching his business in the “fourth phase” of discovering purpose.
• Reclaiming manhood through brutal discipline
  Now in his late 30s, Antwon talks about the new tie he’s cutting: the loss of edge and intentional masculinity—and how he’s rebuilding it.
• Tactical alignment for daily clarity
  From gratitude journaling to sovereign man affirmations, he walks through the morning rituals anchoring his mindset and productivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Legacy requires intention, not inheritance
  Antwon chose ownership to create a new story for his family line—and he's building it brick by brick.
• Discipline unlocks true masculinity
  Fitness, clarity, and consistency aren’t just physical wins—they’re foundational for personal power.
• Your environment is either fuel or friction
  From food to apps to music, everything around Antwon is chosen with purpose to sharpen his edge.
• Daily alignment is the real productivity hack
  A 15-minute ritual of gratitude and goals can recalibrate your entire life trajectory.
• You can't outsource your evolution
  No coach, podcast, or business partner can replace the internal work of becoming who you’re meant to be.

Connect with Antwon Davis:

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antwondavis/
🌐 4THPARK: https://4thpark.com/
🏘️ Enclave Co-Living: https://www.enclavecoliving.com

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:

🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/thelfrich
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutthetie
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/
🌐 Website: https://www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 Instantly Relevant: https://www.instantlyrelevant.com

Support the show

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Cut The Tie Podcast with John Evans

What if success wasn’t about working more—but about designing smarter systems? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with John Evans, founder and CEO of EverLine Coatings and Services, to explore how building a simple, scalable model from day one set the stage for explosive franchise growth.

From nearly giving up in year one to building a coast-to-coast franchise brand, John shares the hard lessons, mindset shifts, and non-negotiables that fueled his transition from founder to CEO. If you’re dreaming of building a company that runs without you—this episode is your blueprint.

About John Evans

John Evans is the founder and CEO of EverLine Coatings and Services, a fast-growing franchise brand providing pavement maintenance and line striping solutions across North America. What started in Calgary has expanded nationwide through a systematized franchise model that empowers local operators to scale with efficiency. John is passionate about leadership development, strategic simplicity, and creating a business that serves both the customer and the owner.

In this episode, Thomas and John discuss:

• Cutting ties with complexity
  John reveals how simplifying everything—from service offering to client communication—was key to surviving year one.
• Scaling through systems, not personality
  Instead of being the bottleneck, John focused on creating repeatable processes that franchisees could own.
• Why early pain creates future freedom
  He reflects on the foundational systems they built from scratch—and how that paid off when they began to scale.
• The power of founder self-awareness
  John opens up about his own leadership evolution, from doing it all to building a business that runs without him.
• Letting go to grow
  Franchise success required John to step back, trust others, and shift from operator to strategic leader.

Key Takeaways:

• Simplify everything early
  Complexity kills momentum. Start lean and build a repeatable core.
• You are not the system
  If the business depends on you, it won’t scale. Document everything.
• Build before you expand
  Strong systems are your launchpad. Don’t scale chaos.
• Franchise success comes from local ownership
  Empower people. Train them. Then get out of their way.
• Great CEOs grow themselves first
  Self-awareness is the unlock to leadership, delegation, and sustainable growth.

Connect with John Evans

💼 LinkedIn: John Evans
🌐 Website: www.everlinecoatings.com

Franchise Everline Coatings

🚀 Talk to Pete Gilfillan: https://go.hireyourself.com/gilfillan?utm_source=cttpodcastjohnevans
🚀 Talk to Dave Greenberg: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web?utm_source=cttpodcastjohnevans

Connect with Thomas Helfrich

🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

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Cut The Tie Podcast with Adam Bergman
What if everything you’ve been told about retirement and investing is outdated—or worse, rigged against you? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Adam Bergman, founder of IRA Financial, to talk about the myth of financial freedom through Wall Street and how entrepreneurs can reclaim control of their wealth through self-directed retirement plans.

After a successful career as a tax attorney, Adam saw firsthand how limited traditional investment advice really was. So he cut the tie, built a business around alternative investing, and now helps thousands of Americans take charge of their financial futures—without asking permission from brokers or big banks.

About Adam Bergman

Adam Bergman is a tax attorney, best-selling author, and founder of IRA Financial, one of the leading platforms for self-directed retirement accounts. With expertise in alternative assets, tax structures, and investing strategies, Adam has built a firm that empowers entrepreneurs and investors to use their retirement accounts for real estate, startups, crypto, and more. He’s also the host of the AdBits podcast, where he breaks down complex retirement strategies in plain English.

In this episode, Thomas and Adam discuss:

• Cutting ties with the Wall Street narrative
  Adam shares why traditional retirement planning doesn’t work for most entrepreneurs—and how self-directed IRAs offer more flexibility and control.
• From tax attorney to financial rebel
  He breaks down the moment he realized he wanted to serve clients directly—not just protect banks—and how that led to launching IRA Financial.
• Why entrepreneurs are the best investors
  Adam explains how business owners already have the mindset to evaluate deals, take calculated risks, and build lasting wealth.
• The big lie of “diversification”
  According to Adam, putting all your savings in mutual funds and stocks isn’t diversified—it’s boxed in. He shares smarter ways to hedge and grow.

Key Takeaways:

• Wall Street doesn’t serve entrepreneurs
  If you want real control and returns, look beyond the big firms and traditional funds.
• You are your best investment advisor
  No one knows your risk tolerance, goals, or vision like you do. Own it.
• Self-direction = freedom
  When you can invest your retirement money in real estate, startups, or your own business—you’re truly free.
• Tax law is a tool, not a trap
  Learn the rules, then use them to your advantage. That’s how wealthy people win.
• Building wealth is about structure, not shortcuts
  Smart frameworks, not fast money, lead to lasting freedom.

Connect with Adam Bergman

💼 LinkedIn: Adam Bergman
🌐 Website: www.irafinancialgroup.com
🎧 Podcast: AdBits Podcast

Connect with Thomas Helfrich

🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie

Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with Candyce Edelen
What happens when a driven founder realizes the hustle is costing more than it's giving back? In this candid episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Candyce Edelen, founder of PropelGrowth, to unpack her journey from relentless workaholism to a life of intention, delegation, and healthier ambition.

Candyce shares the early lessons from her entrepreneurial upbringing, the realities of scaling (and breaking) a company, and how a burnout-induced pivot helped her rediscover both energy and purpose. If you’ve ever felt like you’re sprinting on a treadmill that never stops, Candyce’s story is the reset you didn’t know you needed.

About Candyce Edelen

Candyce Edelen is the founder and CEO of PropelGrowth, a revenue enablement consultancy that helps complex B2B companies align sales and marketing for long-term growth. With a background in capital markets, marketing, and entrepreneurship, Candyce blends deep industry expertise with a passion for building systems that support—not sabotage—growth. She's also a speaker, writer, and champion for sustainable success.

In this episode, Thomas and Candyce discuss:

• Cutting ties with hustle culture
  Candyce shares how her high-achiever mindset led to exhaustion—and how learning to delegate gave her business (and life) new energy.
• From founder to builder of systems
  She breaks down the shift from being the “do-it-all” leader to architecting a company that runs without her doing everything.
• The cost of ignoring burnout
  Candyce gets honest about the health and relationship toll of overwork, and the wake-up moment that forced a better path.
• Why personal growth drives business growth
  Through therapy, self-awareness, and constant iteration, Candyce shows how inner work leads to outer transformation.
• Redefining success around rest and results
  Today, Candyce runs a company where she works fewer hours, serves higher-value clients, and never misses her morning walk.

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t have to do it all yourself
  Delegating isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Build the team. Build the system.
• Burnout is a signal, not a badge
  When your body and relationships are suffering, it’s time to listen and change.
• Systems give you freedom
  If your business can’t operate without you, you don’t have a business—you have a job.
• Success is about energy, not hours
  Working smarter—and less—can lead to better outcomes and better health.
• Personal growth scales your company
  Mindset work, boundaries, and self-awareness are just as important as strategy.

Connect with Candyce Edelen

💼 LinkedIn: Candyce Edelen
🌐 Website: www.propelgrowth.com

Connect with Thomas Helfrich

🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie

Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with Jason Greer
What happens when you wake up and realize you’ve been living someone else’s definition of success? In this revealing episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich talks with Jason Greer, co-owner of Peel Business Design, about the moment he realized he was living under fear, guilt, and shame—and how he took ownership of his story.

From a small Midwest town to leading a company that helps businesses align strategy, metrics, and process, Jason’s story is one of deep introspection, curiosity, and intentional change. He shares how cutting emotional and cultural ties helped him build a business and a life that feels like his own—and why being curious, vulnerable, and humble remains his compass.

About Jason Greer

Jason Greer is the co-founder of Peel Business Design, a firm that believes “business deserves design.” With a focus on strategy alignment, process optimization, and people-centered solutions, Jason helps companies break big problems into solvable pieces. His journey from fear-based living to purpose-driven leadership is one of empathy, grit, and transformation.

In this episode, Thomas and Jason discuss:

• Breaking Free from Cultural Expectations
  Jason shares how growing up in a small Midwest town instilled guilt, shame, and fear—and how he recognized those patterns still shaped his decisions as an adult.
• The Wake-Up Call in a Parking Lot
  A chance reading of a book in his car sparked a life-altering realization: if he didn’t make changes, he’d live a life designed by other people’s expectations.
• Redesigning Life Through Emotional Awareness
  By intentionally putting himself in uncomfortable situations, Jason learned to identify emotional patterns, reconnect with himself, and build healthier relationships—personally and professionally.
• Leading with Curiosity, Humility, and Empathy
  Jason explains why these three values drive how he works with clients, tackles complex problems, and navigates new industries—without needing to be the smartest guy in the room.

Key Takeaways:

• You Don’t Have to Inherit Someone Else’s Life
  Recognizing emotional baggage is the first step to designing a life that’s truly yours.
• Curiosity is a Competitive Advantage
  Staying curious keeps you growing, evolving, and connected to the work you love.
• Your Support System is Your Superpower
  Success isn’t a solo act—mentors, family, and friends are critical to the journey.
• Clients Feel Your Energy
  When you stop selling and start listening, the right clients show up—and the wrong ones walk away.
• Business Deserves Design
  You can’t solve big problems with default solutions. Break them down. Build intentionally.

Connect with Jason Greer

💼 LinkedIn: Jason Greer
🌐 Website: www.peelbusinessdesign.com

Connect with Thomas Helfrich

🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie

Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with John Teichert
What happens when your boss tells you—11 days into a major leadership role—that you’re the wrong guy for the job? In this commanding episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Brigadier General (Ret.) John “Dragon” Teichert to talk about what true leadership looks like when your career is on the line.

After serving as a fighter pilot and leading top aerospace testing units in the U.S. Air Force, John faced one of his greatest leadership tests—not in combat, but in confronting ego, fear, and toxic leadership. What followed was a transformation fueled by faith, selflessness, and a total redefinition of success. This isn’t just military strategy—it’s a masterclass in servant leadership.

About John Teichert:
John Teichert is a retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General and former F-15E and F-22 pilot. Known by his call sign “Dragon,” he led high-performing teams in some of the most complex national security and aerospace environments. Today, he’s a keynote speaker and leadership coach, helping others break barriers, challenge convention, and ignite innovation through selfless leadership. He’s also a passionate advocate for faith-based values and character-driven transformation.

In this episode, Thomas and John discuss:

• Cutting ties with ego
  John shares how a toxic boss became the unexpected catalyst for his most important leadership transformation.
• Leading through selflessness, not self-preservation
  By assuming his career was over, John was freed to lead solely in service of his team—and it made all the difference.
• The biblical blueprint for leadership
  He breaks down how Scripture, especially the example of Jesus, continues to guide his life and leadership today.
• From test pilot to culture shifter
  At Edwards Air Force Base, John led a cultural overhaul that made it an innovation juggernaut—outperforming the rest of the Air Force combined.
• How dad jokes became a leadership tactic
  John opens up about the surprising power of humor and humility in building connection and morale.

Key Takeaways:

• Your title doesn’t define your impact
  Even when told he wasn’t “the guy,” John led with purpose—and delivered undeniable results.
• Selfless leadership wins—even in toxic environments
  The shift from self-focus to team-focus led to unexpected promotion and legacy.
• Faith is a leadership strategy
  The Bible offers time-tested truths on how to lead with character, humility, and courage.
• Purpose and community drive performance
  Every human wants to be loved and part of something bigger—leaders must build both.
• The best way to lead? Add value without expecting credit
  When you focus on others’ growth, your own success follows naturally.

Connect with John Teichert:
💼 LinkedIn: John Teichert
🌐 Website: www.johnteichert.com

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:
🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

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Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with Jim Wylie
What if everything you believed about the freedom of entrepreneurship was wrong? In this reflective and powerful episode of Cut The Tie, host Thomas Helfrich sits down with Jim Wylie, co-owner of experiential marketing agency Envy Create, to unpack the difference between chasing freedom and choosing responsibility.

A native Scot living in Atlanta, Jim shares the surprising truth behind business ownership, why growth—not escape—is the real goal, and how a support network, humility, and decades of listening have shaped his personal and professional journey. For anyone stuck in the illusion that being self-employed means “doing whatever you want,” this episode is a needed reset.

About Jim Wylie:
Jim Wylie is the co-owner of Envy Create, an experiential marketing firm that helps global brands connect with audiences through both live and digital environments. Born in Scotland and now based in Atlanta, Jim is a husband, father of three, and investor with decades of experience in marketing, operations, and leadership. His work and life philosophy centers on constant personal growth, deep trust, and cutting ties with limiting mindsets.

In this episode, Thomas and Jim discuss:

• Cutting ties with the myth of entrepreneurial freedom
  Jim shares why being your own boss doesn’t mean liberation—it means accountability to others, and that's a responsibility you choose.
• A forced move into sales—and the fear that changed everything
  Pushed into 100% commission, Jim leaned on his father's advice and discovered how listening well is more powerful than selling hard.
• Building a business from a gas station conversation
  An ordinary stop turned into a defining moment—when Jim and his future co-founder realized they were meant to build something together.
• Why support networks are the real startup capital
  From trusting clients to a strong family foundation, Jim emphasizes that no one builds anything meaningful alone.

Key Takeaways:

• Self-employment doesn’t equal freedom
  It gives you choice—and that’s a different, more demanding kind of responsibility.
• Growth—not titles—is the measure of success
  If you're not growing personally, professionally, or emotionally, you're standing still.
• No one builds alone
  Success requires trust, partnership, and a support system that believes in your vision.
• Pay yourself first, or you don’t have a business
  If your business can’t support you, it won’t support your family—or your future.
• You need thoroughbreds, not show ponies
  Business is about performance, not flash. Know who to count on when it matters.

Connect with Jim Wylie:
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.envycreate.com

💼 LinkedIn: Jim Wylie

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:
🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 www.InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie

Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with Nick Kemp
What happens when the dream you buried in college won’t stay buried? In this episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Nick Kemp, a former educator who walked away from a 20-year career to go full-time with Grillgasms BBQ—a soul food, smoke-driven brand based in Atlanta.

From smoked brisket to shrimp and grits, Nick delivers more than just flavor. He’s building a business on love, legacy, and belief in yourself—on your own terms.

About Nick Kemp:
Nick Kemp is the founder and pitmaster behind Grillgasms BBQ, a food brand specializing in soulful, seasoned, smoked meats and scratch-made sides. Formerly in education, Nick turned his side hustle into a full-time business after a health scare forced him to reevaluate his priorities. Through Grillgasms, he’s not just feeding people—he’s creating a feel-good experience steeped in love and nostalgia.

In this episode, Thomas and Nick discuss:

• Cutting ties with a safe career—by necessity
  Nick opens up about the health scare that pushed him to walk away from a long career in education and finally go all-in on his food business.
• Turning repeat customers into a full-time calling
  He shares how side hustling with smoked turkeys and brisket turned into consistent demand—and gave him the confidence to bet on himself.
• Scaling flavor without the brick-and-mortar trap
  Nick explains why he’s resisting the restaurant model and leaning into mobile catering, events, and smart scalability to stay flexible and profitable.
• Cooking with soul—and intention
  From his signature seasoning to the way he plates food, Nick talks about cooking like family is coming over—and why love is the real secret ingredient.
• Building legacy by leading at home
  Nick’s kids aren’t just watching—they’re participating. From lemonade stands to business lessons, he’s passing down the entrepreneurial mindset early.

Key Takeaways:

• Your dream doesn’t expire—just delay
  Nick buried his passion for cooking in college. Two decades later, he dug it back up and made it work on his terms.
• Stress you choose beats stress you're handed
  Leaving his 9–5 wasn't easy, but it gave him back his health, freedom, and ownership of time.
• Love is the real secret ingredient
  His food isn't just seasoned—it’s intentional. Cooking with heart creates a feeling no spice mix can replicate.
• You don’t need a restaurant to build an empire
  Nick’s keeping it mobile, scalable, and lean—proving that great food doesn’t need a fixed location.
• Entrepreneurship is legacy work
  By involving his kids early, Nick’s building more than a business—he’s building a mindset that lasts generations.

Connect with Nick Kemp:
🌐 Website: www.grillgasms.com
📸 Instagram: @grillgasms
📧 Email: [email protected]

Connect with Thomas Helfrich:
🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 www.InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie

Send us Fan Mail

Cut The Tie Podcast with Clifford Starks

What if the only thing holding you back was the belief that you’re not enough?

In this empowering episode of Cut The Tie, Thomas Helfrich sits down with Clifford Starks, former UFC fighter turned peak performance coach, to explore what it really means to lead from within. Clifford shares how his journey—from an overweight teen to elite athlete to entrepreneur—was never about talent or luck. It was about mindset, resilience, and choosing growth even in the face of fear.

He opens up about the toughest tie he had to cut: staying silent. Clifford explains how asking for help transformed his business, his family life, and his own personal evolution—and why vulnerability is the hidden superpower of successful leaders.

If you’re stuck in achievement mode, craving purpose, or afraid to admit you don’t have it all figured out, this episode is your wake-up call.

About Clifford Starks

Clifford Starks is a performance coach, speaker, and founder of Starks Transformational Coaching. A former UFC fighter, Clifford now helps high-performing entrepreneurs and executives master their mindset, reconnect with their purpose, and lead with integrity. Drawing on his experience in elite athletics and personal development, he guides leaders toward sustainable success across business, health, and relationships.

He’s also a devoted husband and father, passionate about building a legacy rooted in values, clarity, and growth.

In this episode, Thomas and Clifford discuss:

• The tie of silence
  Why Clifford’s biggest shift came when he started asking for help—and why that decision unlocked a new level of freedom.
• From octagon to ownership
  How elite athletic performance shaped Clifford’s approach to business and mindset coaching.
• The power of “I don’t know”
  Clifford explains how embracing curiosity and releasing ego transformed his personal and professional life.
• What performance really means
  It’s not about grinding harder—it’s about aligning your mind, mission, and methods.
• Family, legacy, and fulfillment
  Clifford shares how fatherhood and marriage reshaped his definition of success—and what he wants his kids to see in his journey.

Key Takeaways:

• You can’t grow until you ask for help
  Real leadership starts with vulnerability and the courage to say “I don’t know.”
• Your identity isn’t static
  From fighter to founder to father—Clifford proves you can rewrite your story at any stage.
• Performance isn’t hustle—it’s alignment
  True success is built when your habits match your purpose.
• Let go of the ego
  Ego keeps you stuck. Curiosity moves you forward.
• Legacy starts now
  The version of you your kids see today is the story they’ll tell tomorrow.

Connect with Clifford Starks

💼 LinkedIn: Clifford Starks

Connect with Thomas Helfrich

🐦 Twitter: @thelfrich
📘 Facebook: Cut the Tie Group
💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Helfrich
🌐 Website: www.cutthetie.com
📧 Email: [email protected]
🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com

Support the show

https://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie