“Everyone is waiting for someone else to go first.”
That’s an old saying, who knows how old or who first said it, but it’s a powerful revelation of what happens between us as people. We don’t look people in the eye. We don’t initiate a conversation. We zip into our garages, close the door, and never make time to meet our neighbors for the first time. Why is that? This episode of “Crank It Up” is what David likes to call a “solo round” where he’s talking to you from the heart about an issue that’s important to him. This round is about going first.
Firsts throughout history
There are many “first times” throughout history that have changed the course of the the world and the popular beliefs of the day about what is possible. David highlights three of those – Sir Edmund Hillary (first to summit Mt. Everest), Roger Bannister (first to run a mile in faster than 4 minute), and Neil Armstrong (first man to step foot on the moon). All of these illustrate that somebody had to have the courage to go first and as a result others followed to accomplish even greater things.
Going first in everyday life.
Going first doesn’t have to relate only to world-wide events or achievements. In fact, it makes a greater difference when you take this step with the people in your private and personal world. Learning to be the first to say “Hello”, or to smile. Being the first to meet your neighbor or invite the entire neighborhood over to create connection and harmony in the community. These are things that feel threatening or a bit risky, but it’s actually the exact opposite that usually winds up happening. David’s going to unpack it and emphasize the importance of developing that habit in this important episode.
OUTLINE OF THIS GREAT EPISODE

* The old saying, “Everybody’s waiting for someone else to go first.”
* The example of Sir Edmund Hillary (video link below) and the summit of Mount Everest.
* The example of Roger Bannister (video link below) who first broke the 4-minute mile.
* A final example: Neil Armstrong – first man on the moon (video link below).
* The philosophy behind what it takes to “go first.” – What does it mean to lead, to go first?
* First first thing you have to realize (the point of the quote).
* Why noticing is important to the process.
* A test for you to do.
* Going first to bring a community together.
* What really happens when you choose to go first.
* The strength and power of saying “Sorry” first.
* Where do you have an opportunity to go first?

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Sir Edmund Hilary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kfa3bX4uLLw
Roger bannister
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP_NzZP_LK0
Neil Armstrong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMINSD7MmT4
The Amplified Living website
www.AmplifiedLiving.com
Music featured in this episode
For the first Time – The Script
The First Time – Mercy Me
First Time – Lifehouse
The First Time – Ella Henderson
Quotes from this episode
Holding on to hatred, anger or any dark energy  is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die – David T. S. Wood

Episode 10 – David T.S. Wood – The Power of Going First

David T.S. Wood, host of Crank It Up! podcast shares the wisdom and lessons he’s learned from his adventures across the world and chats with some of the most inspiring people like John C. Maxwell, Robin Sharma, Jack Canfield, Lisa Nichols, Tim Ferris, Les Brown and many, many more. Starting with just a backpack and a guitar, David has catapulted his life to being a hugely successful entrepreneur, wealth expert and world renown master trainer. On this journey, David learned secrets in all areas of life (finances, relationships, business, adventure and happiness) and shares that with you on this show, so you can put it into use immediately in your life. Many of you may also know David from his wildly successful first podcast, The KickAss Life (over 2.5 Million downloads). For more inspiring content on how to crank up your life and your success, go to http://amplifiedliving.com

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Jordan Harbinger is an expert in social influence, interpersonal dynamics, and social engineering. It’s no wonder he found himself at the helm of a flourishing business called The Art of Charm. Through this business, Jordan shares his experience with others in order to help them understand the art of charm. They host a hugely successful podcast of the same name as well as The Art of Charm Bootcamp, which is a 6-day intensive program for guys who are ready to make that transition. Jordan shares his journey from young mischief-maker to problem-solver to entrepreneur in this chat with David.
Bringing positivity and abundance to others.
Jordan’s edge often catches people off guard. The fact is, this edge is what makes Jordan stand out. He’s honest, authentic, and – yes – charming. He discusses what charm means to him and why he stands out as an expert in the field. According to Jordan, charm is all about leaving people better than you found them by bringing positivity and abundance to others. This philosophy is clearly an area of passion for Jordan and one about which he has a deep understanding. He discusses how he became an expert in the art of charm and the role his upbringing as an only child had in discovering his niche.
Being your most authentic self in order to make real connections.
All too often, we’re left feeling as though we have to be someone we’re not in order to fit in – or wear a mask. According to Jordan, it’s impossible to make a connection with a mask, so in doing this we’re immediately disconnecting with others. In order to understand charm and truly connect with others, we must be our authentic selves. Jordan discusses why charm isn’t about being polite all the time, but instead it’s about being honest, authentic, and trustworthy in order to connect with others. Being yourself in the most authentic way is the cornerstone of charm.
Being charming requires confidence.
In order to be your authentic self, you have to gain confidence. In his Bootcamp, Jordan teaches guys how to be confident in themselves in order to cross over into a more authentic version of themselves. He also discusses what holds most of us back from being authentic: an overwhelming fear that, if you show who you really are, no one will like you. In the Bootcamp, he works with a group of 10 guys to help them see their behaviors and understand how to transition into a state of confidence and authenticity. This process shows them how to be confident in all situations, which is an essential element in mastering the art of charm.
Learning to have real confidence in all situations.
Jordan explains how situational confidence can hold us back, and why it’s necessary to develop confidence in yourself that will extend to all situations. In order to connect with anyone – anywhere – you must understand how to be confident at all times. Jordan discusses the fact that first impressions aren’t made when we first speak, but they’re actually made when we’re first noticed. So, non-verbal communication is the key to making a great first impression. In closing, Jordan gives listeners a bit of homework to begin to develop better body language and confidence in order to better connect with people.
Outline of this great episode

[0:53] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Jordan Harbinger.
[1:34] How did you get into podcasting?
[3:45] The concept of the power of charm and how Jordan got to be the expert in this arena.
[9:32] Realizing he’ll learn more through experience versus school.
[10:40] The balance between good charm and manipulation.
[15:16] How do you define charm?
[17:58] Where does your edge come from?
[22:27] The role of authenticity in charm.

Episode 98: Understanding the Art of Charm, with Jordan Harbinger [PODCAST]

Jeffrey Slayter is no stranger to success. At the age of 20, Jeffrey set a goal: to be on some of the world’s biggest stages with leading thought leaders – and that’s just what he’s done. Jeffrey’s success was no accident – it was about hard work, introspection and a willingness to go where others aren’t always willing to go. Jeffrey is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, international speaker, philanthropist, and so much more. In this chat with David, Jeffrey shares inspiring stories and discusses how he works with top CEOs to help them connect with the deeper parts of themselves.
Once you achieve something, there’s always more to do.
For Jeffrey, achievements have been bitter sweet. Setting such lofty goals pushed him to succeed, but he found himself thinking, “now what?” when he hit those goals. Jeffrey discusses the good and bad of achievement and why it’s important to always keep moving on to the next goal. Setting a goal of being a prominent public figure afforded Jeffrey the opportunity to share the stage with thought leaders like Richard Branson, having immeasurable experiences in doing so. He discusses what led him to this path and how his father (founder and original CEO of Odesk) influenced him to be an achiever.
Being a visionary is key.
Jeffrey’s focus on “self” has been at the core of his life for many years. He started meditating at 20, is a vegetarian, and doesn’t consume alcohol. These were conscious choices Jeffrey made so he could focus inward and truly connect with himself. This led him to connecting with a passion for authentic experiences and creating the opportunity for others to have these experiences. Jeffrey discusses what he feels is missing from our culture today – empathy – and why the tides are turning. He believes the leadership on the planet is starting to feel again, which is causing a great – and necessary – shift in our culture.
The further you get away from nature, the more you get away from your true nature.
Jeffrey discusses the work he does with top CEOs to help them connect with “self”. He offers insight into how he found these deeper connections and how he creates the opportunity for others to have these authentic experiences in nature. According to Jeffrey, when you remove yourself from nature, you end up with higher levels of anxiety, fear, depression, and other negative emotions. On the other hand, creating a connection with nature can help you connect with your true nature.
Losing the fear to please everyone.
As David and Jeffrey close out their chat, Jeffrey discusses the first shamanic experience he had and how it influences him to this day. He shares details of the experience as well as his biggest takeaway: losing his fear of trying to please everyone. Jeffrey offers an important piece of advice: seek direct experience for yourself. Don’t seek someone else’s experience. In closing, Jeffrey discusses his best-selling book “Imagine” and some resources you can find on his site, The Grand Initiative. Jeffrey’s final thought: Life happens at the edge. You’ve got to find your edge.
Outline of this great episode

[1:04] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Jeffrey Slayter.
[2:42] Jeffrey’s background and what his journey has been like.
[5:04] Seeing people of great wealth dedicating their lives to helping others and giving back.
[5:54] The work Jeffrey does with CEOs.
[13:11] Working with titan CEOs to get them to have a deeper connection with self.
[17:07] Has the western culture moved too far away from these deep spiritual connections? And do you see things changing?
[23:40] The clarity piece of working with a shaman.
[31:57] The shifts that happened for Jeffrey after this experience.

Episode 96: Awakening Your True Nature, with Jeffrey Slayter [PODCAST]

If you’re in sales, there’s a good chance you’ve dealt with the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding the industry. That’s where Andy Paul comes in. Andy is an author, blogger, podcaster, speaker, and consultant with a knack for helping salespeople accelerate their sales. His focus is on helping salespeople understand the stigmas and how to blow them out of the water by being authentic and passionate about the process. During this chat with David, Andy shares valuable insight into sales techniques that can truly transform your sales and give you the edge over others in the industry. According to Andy, the best way to excel is to differentiate yourself from others.
Building trust by making a deliberate exchange with the buyer.
In order to eliminate the stigma surrounding the sales industry, it’s essential to bring honesty to the exchange. Andy discusses how to do this be deliberately giving the buyer something of value. They give you their time, but what can you as the seller give them to add value to the experience and gain their trust? According to Andy, being present in the conversation is key. It’s all about being there mentally in order to show the buyer you care and eventually break the trust barrier. If you’re not wholly focused on them, it’s difficult to gain the trust of the buyer.
Your confidence will increase exponentially as you continue to learn.
Andy discusses the importance of asking questions during an exchange. He even suggests making it a challenge – how long can you go in a conversation without doing anything but asking questions? Andy shares some tactical steps to help salespeople better understand the questions they should be asking in order to get to the meat of the matter – what it is the buyer needs and how you can fill that need. He also offers insight into the role of passion in the sales process. According to Andy, you must have passion either for helping people or for the product/service you’re offering. Sincerity is key – and passion is the root of sincerity.
Embracing follow-up as the one thing you can control.
Follow up is perhaps the area of greatest struggle for salespeople everywhere. Why? Simply put, most people have a feeling that they might be “pestering” the buyer by following up with them. So, how does Andy deal with this issue? Well, he’s honest about the fact that you are, in fact pestering them. The key is to realize that follow up is the one and only thing you can control in the process. Andy’s strategy for follow up is to offer something of value with each contact. He shares some tips to help you add value to your prospects and make each exchange something they will eagerly await.
You are the first line of differentiation between you and everyone else.
As David and Andy close out their chat, they discuss in greater detail Andy’s two books: “Amp Up Your Sales: Powerful Strategies That Move Customers To Make Fast, Favorable Decisions” and “Zero-Time Selling: 10 Essential Steps to Accelerate Every Company’s Sales”. Andy also shares his final thoughts for fellow salespeople and why you must differentiate yourself from others in order to succeed. This conversation is a must for salespeople who are ready to accelerate their sales and stand out from the rest.
Outline of this great episode

[1:23] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Andy Paul.

Episode 95: Prospecting, Follow-Up and the Art of Disqualification, with Andy Paul [PODCAST]

As a top business and executive coach, Jason Treu has established himself as an expert on building extraordinary relationships. His belief that everything we accomplish is with or through people fuels Jason’s passion to help train others on how to build strong relationships and overcome the things that can hold you back from making those connections. Through his website, BeExtraordinary.TV, Jason offers trainings, coaching sessions, and products to help others understand the things that hold us back in our relationships and how to practice finding a connection the right way.
Speaking your truth with authenticity.
Jason shares why he believes authenticity is the foundation for all extraordinary relationships. He discusses why it’s important to lead with authenticity in order to find common ground with people. Jason offers insight into why he believes this is such a challenge for so many of us and how we can overcome our fear of being vulnerable. The key is a willingness to let people see who you really are, skeletons and all. The value of this, says Jason, is that you are able to connect with someone on the basis of who you really are, which will build a more genuine, meaningful connection.
Leading with giving to make connections.
One way to connect with people is to lead with giving. Jason shares why this is important and how you can start the conversation by asking them questions. When you let them share what matters to them, you are better able to connect. Jason discusses why doing this is what he calls “leading with giving” and why it’s a great way to start a relationships. Jason also talks about his “scorecard” approach and why it’s important to lead with giving, without allowing anyone to take advantage of you.
The power of giving without expectation.
As Jason discusses the relationship scorecard, he shares why giving without expectation can be so powerful. It’s about reaching out and giving of yourself without any expectation of it being reciprocated. When you do this, you’re able to show you care in a true, authentic, and meaningful way, which will have a big impact. By contrast, when you give with expectation, it can lead to resentment, anger, and other negative emotions that can damage your relationship. Jason discusses how this type of giving with expectation can have a negative ripple effect throughout your life.
A willingness to practice.
As Jason and David close out their chat, they discuss Jason’s book, “Social Wealth” and his reasons for sharing this book with the world. They chat about some examples of people who know how to build extraordinary relationships, most notably Richard Branson. Jason also offers insight into his belief that you must practice building and engaging in extraordinary relationships in order to make these skills a habit. They go over some common mistakes people make in relationships and how to avoid them in order to stay on the path towards extraordinary relationships.
Outline of this great episode

[1:25] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Jason Treu.
[1:59] What makes extraordinary relationships?
[2:46] Why is the idea of authenticity such a challenge?
[4:22] How did you realize you wanted to help people build extraordinary relationships?
[7:01] The role that truth plays in these extraordinary relationships.
[9:02] Why Jason leads with letting people ask questions.
[10:28] The scorecard philosophy.
[12:46] Leading with giving.
[17:05] The concept of expectation.
[19:36] The difference in life when you do things without expectation.
[21:19] Jason’s book, “Social Wealth”.
[23:56] People Jason looks to as examples of extraordinary relationships.

Episode 94: Leading with Authenticity and Building Extraordinary Relationships, with Jason Treu [PODCAST]

In spite of the fact that it appeared as though he had a great life – a great career and everything he could ever “need” – Leon Logothetis was left feeling unfulfilled and empty. He knew he had to make a change in order to find happiness in himself and with his life. And so, Leon left his job as a broker and decided to go on an adventure. He wasn’t sure what to expect, but he followed his heart and knew he would find the way. Leon shares his first big adventure and the impact it had, as well as the journey that followed. How did he go from a life of emptiness to a life of kindness? Find out on this episode of Crank it Up.
Finding the courage to make a life shift.
For Leon, making this huge life shift wasn’t about courage. It was about moving away from a life that caused him pain. He discusses why it wasn’t about making huge decisions, but rather going towards kindness and things that made him feel good inside. The first big step for Leon was the decision to take a trip across America on just $5 a day. That means he had to rely on the kindness of strangers. Leon discusses why he made this decision and his belief that we can choose to see darkness or light, and if we focus on light that’s what we’ll see. He shares some stories of incredible kindness and light he found during his journey in America and how it helped to change the direction of his life.
The imperfection in each other is what connects us.
Leon discusses the value of truly embracing the concept of living the best possible life and why the foundation of it must be kindness. He also shares why it’s important to cherish your own imperfections and realize that our imperfections connect us all. Leon goes on to discuss one very powerful story of kindness during his stop in Indianapolis and how much the kindness of a stranger impacted him. He also shares what life was like after his trip across America and how he made the decision to go back to life behind a desk.
Finding your inner fire.
For Leon, returning to life behind a desk wasn’t a fit. He knew it wasn’t the life that would make him happy and in 2013 he left that behind. He took the plunge into living the life that made him happy, which was helping others find their own happiness. His goal is to inspire people, so he decided to go on a trip across the world on a vintage motorcycle. This trip was all about sharing kindness with others. Leon shares some of the key learnings of this trip, one of which came from an experience with a homeless man named Tony in Pittsburg. Tony made him realize that true wealth is not in our wallets, but in our hearts.
The common thread in cultures around the world.
As Leon and David close out their chat, Leon shares some final words about his adventures, including what he sees as the common thread in cultures around the world. The common thread? We all just want to be seen, heard, loved, and acknowledged. Leon leaves us with a final thought: We all have so much to give – it may be buried under pain, but it’s there. We have to find our light and let it shine brightly.
Outline of this great episode

[1:12] David’s introduction and welcome to you and his guest, Leon Logothetis. 
[1:59] Life before Leon made this huge shift into the life he has now.
[3:15] The courage it took to make the life shift.
[4:23] Some of the early decisions he made to make this shift.
[5:34] Why Leon chose to walk across America as his first big trip.
[6:22] How he walked across America for $5 a day, from Times Square to the Hollywood Sign.
[7:09] The mindset of Leon’s trip and how he managed to survive on just $5 a day.
[8:59] How long did your trip across America take?
[11:18] How our imperfections connect us.
[12:06] The highlight and the hardest moment of his trip across America.
[16:09] How did Leon move from this initial trip to becoming an agent of change?

Episode 10 – David T.S. Wood – The Power of Going First

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