What David Shands Taught Me About Community, Podcasting, and Investing in Yourself?

*Some audio cut out at 10-minutes, so I had to redo the middle and ending, but still great insights. Enjoy!

A behind-the-scenes reflection on hosting David Shands in Cleveland, building community through podcasting, investing in yourself, and how one moment can plant seeds for generational impact.

Who is David Shands?

David Shands is an entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Social Proof Podcast, known for teaching entrepreneurs how to monetize podcasts and build community-driven businesses.

What is the Social Proof Podcast?

A leading entrepreneurship and podcasting podcast focused on monetization, mindset, and execution.

What is Podcast Summit?

Podcast Summit is an annual conference created by David Shands that helps podcasters grow, monetize, and scale their platforms.

In this reflective episode, I break down what it truly meant to host David Shands, New Jersey native turned Atlanta-based multimillionaire entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Social Proof Podcast, when he pulled up to Cleveland.

From organizing the day, documenting the experience, and witnessing David pour into young students, entrepreneurs, and podcasters, this episode highlights the real power of community, curiosity, and self-investment.

David didn’t just speak—he activated people. He gave students actionable steps to make money that same day, rewarded quick execution, and showed what it looks like to lead with faith, discipline, and integrity.

We reflect on:

• How podcasting can plant seeds long before you start your own show
• Why community exchange matters more than clout
• Lessons from Podcast Summit and Social Proof Podcast
• The importance of staying curious as a podcaster and entrepreneur
• Why investing in yourself is non-negotiable

This episode is both a tribute and a testimony—proof that when you bet on yourself and build intentionally, opportunities multiply.

🎙️ We’ll also be attending and vending at Podcast Summit 2026, continuing the journey that started with one yes.

Brands Mentioned:

• Pull Up Experience Podcast
• Creative Frequency
• Alien Eyez Photos Media
• Podcast Summit 2026
• Social Proof Podcast
• Beneficial Bae
• Midtown Tech Hive
• Create-A-Space
• Gin Academy

For photography booking:

https://unscriptedphotographers.com/b/iveIkdjIgkeJbz

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