Exit Rich...Retire Free Podcast

Small businesses are losing time, customers, and profit by relying on outdated systems—especially when 60% of calls go unanswered. Ken Cox has seen this over and over. After decades in tech and entrepreneurship, he’s now helping small businesses automate their customer communication with “AI employees” that work 24/7, speak every language, and never forget your policies. The kicker? Most businesses don’t even realize how accessible this tech is—or how much it can increase their valuation and efficiency overnight.

In this episode, Ken breaks down how AI voice agents are revolutionizing service-based businesses, how to train your first AI receptionist, and what the future looks like when humans become orchestrators—not operators. Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar owner or just exploring your next business idea, this is your roadmap to the next wave of work.

Key Takeaways:

• AI Employees for Small Business: Ken explains how voice AI can answer your phone, reply to reviews, and even schedule appointments—without hiring extra staff.

• Why You’re Losing 60% of Business Calls: Learn why most businesses miss opportunities daily and how automation can fix it instantly.

• Training AI Is Easier Than You Think: If your website has the right info, your AI agent can be trained in minutes to handle customer interactions.

• Automated = More Valuable: Businesses with AI systems are not only more efficient—they’re worth double at exit.

• The $100M Mistake: Ken shares a personal story about an overlooked contract clause that cost him a fortune—and what every entrepreneur should learn from it.

About the Guest:

Ken Cox is a dynamic and accomplished President of Hostirian and the host of the Clicks and Bricks podcast. As an entrepreneur, Ken has built a successful career creating safe and happy workplaces, providing critical IT services to companies of all sizes, from small businesses to the Global 500. His commitment to trading value for value and developing products that benefit everyone involved has earned him recognition as a leading figure in the business world.

Ken is also the author of Reclaim Sobriety: The 12 Rounds of Sobriety, a transformative guide for achieving lasting sobriety. Additionally, he co-authored a chapter in Kevin Harrington’s book, Many Paths to Profit. His expertise in navigating digital privacy, modern HR strategies, product marketing, and entrepreneurship, combined with his personal journey through adversity, makes him a perfect fit for podcasts with an audience of CEOs, CTOs, founders, IT directors, and CFOs.

Links:

https://www.jamesrobbins.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobbins97/

Fast Five Questions

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Start 3–5 service-based businesses using Inlink’s AI tools—test what works and double down.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Accepting a $1M buyout clause in a contract that ultimately cost $100M+ in missed revenue."

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “The Phoenix Project — a must-read for understanding systems, operations, and how to document magic into SOPs.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “ChatGPT Pro — his go-to for creative writing, SOP development, and running every corner of the business.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The ability to act on any idea or passion—with the time, resources, and tech to make it real.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Many high achievers build success externally but feel stuck, exhausted, or unfulfilled internally. Even leaders can lose their way, unsure what the next evolution of their purpose looks like. That’s exactly what happened to James Robbins. From the foothills of the Rockies to leading ministry teams and global business audiences, James was always seen as a leader. But behind the scenes, he wrestled with self-doubt, burnout, and a longing for deeper alignment. His experience navigating leadership, storytelling, and identity helped him build two businesses—and now, a powerful new message for those ready to reclaim their calling.

In this episode, James shares the behind-the-scenes story of building a speaking and leadership company, writing Nine Minutes on Monday, and his transformational new book, The Call to Climb. We explore how storytelling drives leadership, how to lead with empathy, and why your soul is calling you to something more.

Key Takeaways:

• From Ministry to Leadership Training: How James transitioned from church leadership to corporate consulting, and how his experience with volunteers became his “PhD in people.”

• The Power of Story: Why storytelling—not statistics—is the secret weapon for speakers, leaders, and educators who want to create lasting impact.

• Nine Minutes on Monday: James breaks down his simple weekly ritual to build engaged teams using just 9 questions—still used by leaders around the world.

• Burnout and Reinvention: His journey through midlife burnout inspired his new fable, The Call to Climb—a story for those feeling stuck, restless, or called to something greater.

• Designing a Business that Supports Your Life: James shares how he’s restructuring his work, choosing simplicity over scale, and planning for the next three years with purpose and intention.

About the Guest:

James is the founder of First Ascent Leadership. He is a rare mix of management consultant, behavior-change specialist, adventurer and inspirational speaker.

He helps organizations world wide reach higher levels of performance by transforming managers into inspirational leaders.

James was named one of the top leadership speakers by INC. Magazine and regularly shares the stage with other experts in business.

He is also the author of Nine Minutes on Monday; The Quick and Easy Way to Go From Manager to Leader which was named the 2012 Business Book of the Year by Canada’s Globe and Mail.

Links:

https://www.jamesrobbins.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesrobbins97/

Fast Five Questions

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Niche down and sell what you do best—James would teach speakers how to generate leads from stage, a skill that’s brought him 70–90% of the room.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Launching a SaaS platform without understanding its complexity. The result? Bankruptcy of a partner, personal financial loss, and losing his house.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life by James Hollis—a deep, reflective read for anyone evaluating the “why” behind their path.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “ChatGPT (daily use for ideation, writing, clarity), Upgraded Camera Setup (elevated his brand presence for remote work)”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “Choosing your path—and owning the responsibility for it. Whether it's flying to Spain for 3 months or choosing not to grow a massive team, freedom is about intentional living.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Many creative professionals feel trapped in 9-to-5 careers that drain their energy—even when they love their craft. That was Matthieu Mehuys. A gifted landscape architect from Belgium, he found himself stuck in a corporate job, staring at a screen instead of designing nature. Burned out and unfulfilled, he packed a backpack and set off on a global journey that changed everything—from eco-resorts in the Amazon to creating edible gardens in Australia.

In this episode, Matthieu shares how he built a freedom-first business by offering high-end design services and scalable online courses to clients around the world. You’ll learn how he blends regenerative design with timeless principles of nature, and how he's helping everyday people build the gardens and the lives of their dreams.

Key Takeaways:

• From Burnout to Blueprint: Matthieu shares how hitting rock bottom while traveling the Amazon led to the birth of his international landscape architecture business.

• Teaching What You Love Can Scale: By launching an online masterclass called Garden of Your Dreams, Matthieu empowers clients to build regenerative gardens from anywhere—while creating passive income.

• The Power of Nature’s Laws: His award-winning book 12 Universal Laws of Nature teaches how working with—not against—nature drastically reduces maintenance and increases garden success.

• Balancing High-End Clients with Online Education: Matthieu explains how teaching others hasn’t hurt his luxury design business—instead, it’s created more demand and global opportunities.

• Designing for Freedom: Living in the Azores, Matthieu continues to work with clients globally while surfing, traveling, and teaching—on his own terms.

About the Guest:

Matthieu Mehuys is an award-winning author and passionate landscape architect whose journey from a family farm in Belgium to regenerative farming practices has led him to believe that landscape architects can indeed change the world. His fascination with plants since childhood drove him to become a landscape architect, a role he sees as instrumental in crafting environments that marry aesthetics with positive environmental impact. Through his work, he aims to empower individuals to transform their gardens into spaces that foster biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and reverse climate change.

Links:

https://www.paulownia-la.com/

linkedin.com/in/matthieu-mehuys-64b0b5111

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Use $10 for a calling plan, reach out to personal contacts, offer services for a low rate, and reinvest only in food to keep going.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Ignoring his coaches’ advice once success hit—thinking he “knew better” and abandoning proven strategies too early.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “$100M Offers by Alex Hormozi and How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Calendly for scheduling, Google Calendar for managing his life and ChatGPT for creating offers and course content.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The ability to live and travel anywhere, at any time, while doing meaningful work on my own terms.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

You pour years into building a business and finally reach the dream exit… but what happens when the money hits your bank and nothing actually feels different? That’s exactly what happened to John Makarewicz. After scaling a real estate business to a private equity exit and leading a 9-figure team, he was left asking, “Now what?” The transition exposed deeper truths—about leadership, burnout, and why financial freedom doesn’t always equal fulfillment.

In this episode, John unpacks what truly makes a business sellable, how to build a team that thrives without you, and how he rediscovered passion through real estate investing. If you’re building with an exit in mind—or recovering from one—this conversation will shift your perspective on what success really looks like.

Key Takeaways:

• The Exit Myth: John explains why reaching a business exit doesn’t magically deliver happiness—and how to prepare emotionally, not just financially.

• Building a Team That Runs Without You: Learn the systems and hiring strategies John used to make himself replaceable and boost business valuation.

• Burnout After Success: Discover why John’s first post-exit experience led to depression—and how daily hiking and deep reflection guided his next move.

• Leadership Lessons from the Trenches: Why empathy, feedback loops, and hiring for culture are more important than flashy résumés.

• Investing in Impact: At Ferris Capital Partners, John is now focused on multifamily real estate, value-add investing, and creating great experiences for residents and investors alike.

About the Guest:

John Makarewicz is a seasoned entrepreneur, real estate investor, and Managing Partner at Faris Capital Partners, where he specializes in multifamily acquisitions, capital raising, and investor relations. Having grown up in Atlanta and lived across the United States, John’s diverse background has shaped his adaptable, people-first approach to business. His leadership style is heavily influenced by the teachings of coaching legends like John Wooden and Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), reflecting his personal mantra: “How you do one thing is how you do everything.” A passionate builder of businesses, John’s expertise extends well beyond deal-making. He previously scaled a company to a nine-figure private equity exit, focusing on strong culture, operational excellence, and outstanding client experience. Now, through Faris Capital Partners, he guides investors toward lucrative real estate opportunities while maintaining a relentless commitment to transparency and integrity.

Links:

https://www.fariscapitalpartners.com/

linkedin.com/in/john-makarewicz-23589a37

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Launch a webinar series on social media offering real estate education, followed by direct outreach to his personal network to secure listings.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Failing to inspect what he expected—assuming team members had the same motivation and missing red flags that nearly cost him his leadership role.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “John Wooden on Leadership and Vivid Vision”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Screen Time – For eliminating distractions and protecting focus and ChatGPT – For deal analysis, ideation, and dramatically reducing research hours.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The ability to make decisions without financial pressure—no debt, no boss, and the option to walk away if something doesn’t align with your values.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

High achievers often push through stress, illness, and burnout—ignoring the warning signs—until life forces them to stop. Tino Dietrich was one of those people. A successful entrepreneur who oversaw billion-dollar deals, lived across continents, and helped build major online dating brands, Tino ended up in the ICU during COVID, fighting for his life. Only then did he realize something critical was missing: purpose.

In this episode, Tino shares his near-death experience and the transformation that followed. From launching a coaching business centered around the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, to introducing premium German-engineered golf balls to the U.S., Tino walks us through how adversity helped him build a life of meaning—and why now is the time to change what’s not working.

Key Takeaways:

• The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything: Tino’s experience in the ICU during COVID forced him to reevaluate his life, health, and business direction.

• Purpose Through Ikigai: How he rebuilt his life around the Japanese concept of Ikigai—finding purpose by aligning what you love, what you’re good at, and what the world needs.

• Helping High Achievers Find Balance: Tino now coaches entrepreneurs, doctors, and executives struggling to manage work, life, and relationships.

• From Coaching to Golf Balls: How Tino’s weight-loss journey led him back to golf and into a business importing premium German golf balls into the U.S.

• Don’t Delay the Change: His biggest message? Stop waiting. Make the hard decisions now—your future depends on it.

About the Guest:

Tino Dietrich is a visionary entrepreneur, certified Mindvalley coach, and founder of The Dietrich Institute, a premier coaching and consulting organization dedicated to empowering high-achieving individuals and couples to thrive in their personal and professional lives. With over 30 years of leadership experience in global business, Tino brings unparalleled expertise and empathy to his work, helping clients master personal growth, build meaningful relationships, and create lasting legacies.

Links:

https://dietrichinstitute.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinodietrich/

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Record a video sales letter (VSL), build a landing page with a clear offer, run ads, and save $40 to buy a dozen premium golf balls—his meditation on the course.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Delay—he compares it to high blood pressure: a silent killer you don’t feel until it’s too late.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “Everybody Lies by Seth Stephens-Davidowitz – a data-driven look into human behavior and surprising insights.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Superhuman – a high-speed email platform that helps him manage multiple accounts with ease.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “Making choices that define the challenges you face—intentionally choosing your path, fully aware that every decision creates your reality.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Companies invest heavily in sales and operations training, yet leadership is often overlooked—leading to disengaged employees, high turnover, and poor performance. Isabelle Fortin, a former member of the Canadian Air Force, transitioned into corporate leadership and was shocked by what she found—leaders with no real leadership training, companies promoting employees based on skill rather than leadership ability, and widespread dysfunction in management.

In this episode, Isabelle shares how military-style leadership training could transform corporate environments, why leadership is a skill that must be taught, and how companies can improve employee retention, engagement, and productivity with the right leadership strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• The Military vs. Corporate Leadership Gap: Isabelle explains how leadership is trained and tested in the military—compared to how corporate America fails to prepare its leaders.

• Why Most Managers Aren’t Ready for Leadership: Many companies promote top performers into leadership roles without providing any actual leadership training—setting them up for failure.

• The Hidden Cost of Poor Leadership: Isabelle shares how turnover, disengagement, and lack of productivity are often direct results of ineffective leadership.

• How to Fix Leadership in Your Company: Learn why anonymous employee feedback, psychometric testing, and structured leadership training programs are critical to building a strong management team.

• The “Dinner Table Effect”: How great leadership at work creates happier employees, improves their home lives, and boosts overall morale and performance.

About the Guest:

Isabelle Fortin’s journey started in the Royal Canadian Air Force. For the next decade, she developed her communication skills and learned critical leadership skills by attending the prestigious Royal Canadian Leadership School Upon transitioning to civilian life, however, those same admirable traits were not recognized or valued by the company she worked for. She was shocked to notice how much of a “every person for themselves” mentality the corporate world was. She knew there was no way she, or anyone else, could reach their goals in this type of atmosphere. So, she decided to start her own business and create a better company culture that would put humans first.

Links:

https://www.againsttheordinary.org/

linkedin.com/in/isabellemfortin

Fast Five Questions

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? • “Connect with as many people as possible—because success is about relationships and networking.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Not listening closely enough to what people were really saying—every major mistake stemmed from misinterpreting or ignoring key signals.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? "Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek and Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss"

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “LinkedIn—because it provides access to high-level professionals and decision-makers without the noise of other social media platforms.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The “Five-30 Rule”—if something aggravates her for five minutes, she gives it 30 minutes notice before walking away.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Many entrepreneurs chase financial success only to realize that money alone doesn’t bring fulfillment or true freedom. James Wellington learned this firsthand. After losing his mother to breast cancer at 14, he struggled for years to find his purpose. From playing semi-professional rugby to launching multiple seven and eight-figure businesses, he discovered that true freedom isn’t just about wealth—it’s about purpose, faith, and impact.

In this episode, James shares how he built Australia’s largest digital marketing school, scaled businesses beyond seven figures, and now helps others find freedom by aligning purpose with profit. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, his insights on financial literacy, delegation, and legacy-building will inspire you.

Key Takeaways:

• Purpose Before Profit: James explains why finding purpose before chasing money leads to sustainable success and real freedom.

• The Power of Financial Literacy: Learn how James shifted from hoarding cash to leveraging money effectively to build long-term wealth.

• Freedom Through Systems & Delegation: Discover how scaling his business to 72 employees actually gave James more time, not less.

• The Pitfalls of Social Media’s "Highlight Reel": Why comparing yourself to others’ online success can mislead and distract from your own path.

• Legacy Beyond Business: James reveals how his latest venture, Amala, is designed to help businesses grow while funding cancer and HIV research.

Links:

https://amalafinance.com.au/

Fast Five Questions

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Start posting on social media, jump into DMs, and offer services or affiliate connections to generate income quickly.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Too many business partners—trusting the wrong people and learning the hard way to be selective.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “10X Is Easier Than 2X by Dr. Benjamin Hardy & The Bible for timeless wisdom and guidance.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Go High Level—a complete business automation and CRM solution.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “Having the choice to do what you want, when you want—whether that’s traveling, spending time with loved ones, or playing video games on a Wednesday.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Many mid-career professionals feel stuck, burned out, and unfulfilled in their jobs but fear making a change. They dread Mondays, feel underutilized, and worry about financial instability if they pursue something new. Anna Urnova knows this struggle firsthand. After a successful corporate career in HR and talent management, she found herself severely burned out, dreading work, and questioning her purpose. Like many professionals, she was told to "soldier through" and ignore the warning signs. But after years of feeling trapped, she finally made the leap and reinvented her career into something she truly loves.

In this episode, Anna shares her step-by-step system for helping mid-career professionals—especially men aged 35-55—pivot into careers they love without sacrificing financial security. She explains how to transition strategically, leverage existing skills, and start a successful Plan B before making a full leap.

Key Takeaways:

• Mid-Career Burnout is Real: Why so many professionals feel trapped and underutilized, and how to recognize the signs before it’s too late.

• The ‘Lego’ Approach to Career Change: Anna’s method for deconstructing your skills and rebuilding them into a new, fulfilling career path.

• How to Start a Career Pivot Without Quitting: The key to launching a side business or new career path while still employed—without taking reckless risks.

• Why Work Should Align with What You Want: How to shift from a career based on "should" and "can" to one driven by personal passion and purpose.

• The Importance of Multiple Income Streams: Why having just one career path is the riskiest financial move today, and how to create new income streams strategically.

About the Guest:

Anna Urnova is an executive coach dedicated to helping professionals unlock their full potential and create fulfilling careers. Born in the Soviet Union to a diverse heritage, she witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall and embraced reinvention, becoming a true global citizen. Educated in England and France, she built a 20+ year corporate career, rising to HR Vice President at a Fortune 500 company.

Throughout her career, Anna guided individuals and organizations through transitions, large-scale business transformations, and multi-billion dollar acquisitions. Her personal journey—navigating layoffs, breaking through the glass ceiling, and launching her own coaching business during the 2008 financial crisis—shaped her expertise in career reinvention and leadership transformation.

Today, Anna helps professionals transition out of unfulfilling roles and into careers that align with their passions. Combining corporate experience with a deep commitment to personal growth, she empowers clients to take bold steps toward meaningful success.

Links:

linkedin.com/in/anna-urnova-executive-coach

https://annaurnova.com/

Fast Five Questions

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Reach out to her network, post on LinkedIn, and start offering coaching immediately—proving that skills, not capital, are the real asset.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Waiting too long to take herself seriously—she treated coaching as a hobby for years before realizing it could be a profitable career.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “10X Is Easier Than 2X by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy—on how letting go of 80% of tasks can help you focus on what truly drives success.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Opus Clip for repurposing long-form interviews into short-form content for social media.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “Living in alignment with your true desires—not just doing what you “should” or “can” but what you genuinely want to do.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

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Entrepreneurship is glorified, but few talk about the repeated failures, financial struggles, and self-doubt that come with it. Igor Vainshtein knows the highs and lows of entrepreneurship better than most—after moving to Australia with nothing, he built multiple businesses, only to lose everything multiple times. Through years of trial and error, he cracked the code on resilience and eventually sold his golf simulator company for a major exit. Now, he’s bringing his lessons full circle with a board game designed to teach entrepreneurs how to navigate real-world business challenges.

In this episode, Igor shares his rollercoaster journey of business success and failure, the lessons he learned from hitting rock bottom multiple times, and how his new game EntrepreneurPolly is gamifying the realities of entrepreneurship. If you've ever faced setbacks in business, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• Fail Fast, Learn Faster: Igor explains how he lost everything multiple times before finally building a business that led to a successful exit.

• The Power of Resilience: Learn how Igor developed an unshakable mindset, treating business challenges like a game—one that can be won with persistence.

• From Bootstrapping to Selling a Business: How Igor went from near bankruptcy to scaling and selling a golf simulator company to a major industry player.

• Entrepreneurship as a Game: Discover why Igor created EntrepreneurPolly, a board game that mimics the real-life struggles and wins of business owners.

• Why Most Businesses Fail: Igor breaks down the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make and how to avoid them by developing a problem-solving mindset.

About the Guest:

Igor Vainshtein is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and creator of Entrepreneurpoly, a board game that brings the real-world challenges of entrepreneurship to life. His journey—from immigrating from the USSR to Australia at age 10, launching his first business at 17, and later expanding to the USA—has been defined by resilience, adaptability, and a passion for turning ideas into reality.

With experience spanning e-commerce, technology, manufacturing, and golf, Igor has built and scaled multiple ventures, including a golf-focused business that grew 10x during COVID and successfully expanded to the U.S. in 2021. Now, he’s innovating again with Golftrak.app, helping golfers improve their game using only their iPhones.

A global entrepreneur with firsthand experience navigating international markets, Igor understands the nuances of scaling businesses across borders. He thrives on strategy, continuous improvement, and sharing the hard-earned lessons of startup life—many of which are woven into Entrepreneurpoly, a game that educates and inspires future business leaders.

As a speaker and podcast guest, Igor delivers relatable stories, practical insights, and an infectious passion for entrepreneurship. Whether discussing business strategy, global expansion, or the parallels between golf and startups, he inspires others to take bold steps toward their dreams.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/igorvainshtein/

https://www.igorvainshtein.com/

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Start consulting immediately—helping entrepreneurs avoid the mistakes he’s made.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Ignoring gut instincts and waiting too long to pivot, even when the warning signs were obvious.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “Shoe Dog by Phil Knight—the raw, unfiltered journey of building Nike from scratch.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “LinkedIn—for networking, business insights, and building connections that open doors.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The ability to spend time doing what he loves, with the people he loves, while having financial security and flexibility.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle with turning a passion project or hobby into a profitable business, unsure of where to start or how to secure the right resources. Doug Katz, a former military officer turned CEO, knows this challenge firsthand. After navigating corporate America and multiple career pivots, he found himself drawn to entrepreneurship through a hobby—knife making. But launching a product-based business wasn’t easy, from manufacturing struggles to understanding the complexities of commercialization.

In this episode, Doug shares how he built Nulu, a patent-pending adaptive knife designed for efficiency and accessibility. Learn how he leveraged veteran resources, strategic partnerships, and a Kickstarter campaign to turn an idea into a scalable business.

Key Takeaways:

• From West Point to Entrepreneurship: Doug’s journey from military service to corporate roles and ultimately becoming a CEO.

• Turning a Hobby Into a Scalable Business: How Doug’s passion for knife-making evolved into Nulu, a first-of-its-kind adaptive kitchen tool.

• The Power of Asking for Help: Discover how veterans and aspiring entrepreneurs can access free resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to build a business.

• Lessons in Manufacturing and Crowdfunding: Doug shares the challenges and breakthroughs of product development, including supply chain hurdles and launching a successful Kickstarter campaign.

• The Importance of Collaboration: Why surrounding yourself with experts and letting go of total control can take your business further than going at it alone.

About the Guest:

Douglas Katz is a West Point graduate, disabled Army veteran, and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering people with physical limitations to maintain their independence in the kitchen. With a career spanning the military, steel casting, telecom, and lending, he found an unexpected calling—creating NULU, an adaptive knife designed for individuals with upper-body strength challenges, joint issues, or limited mobility.

Inspired by his own experience with upper extremity impairments and caregiving for an octogenarian, Douglas reimagined traditional kitchen tools. Unlike conventional knives that rely on sawing motions and upper-arm strength, NULU’s circular design works with the body’s natural mechanics, making cutting easier, safer, and more accessible.

Supported by a team of seasoned professionals—including fellow West Point grads and veterans—Douglas is leading a Kickstarter campaign to bring NULU to those who need it most. The campaign raises awareness for conditions like MS, arthritis, and Parkinson’s while offering special discounts for veterans, seniors, and supporters of adaptive tech.

More than just a kitchen tool, NULU represents a movement toward practical innovation, independence, and resilience. Douglas is passionate about starting conversations on adaptive technology and redefining what true independence looks like, ensuring that people of all abilities can continue to do what they love.

Links:

https://linktr.ee/dougkatz

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaskatz/

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Go into his garage, start inventing, and turn a new idea into a product.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Trusting too much without verifying—waiting too long to pivot from an underperforming manufacturing partnership.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “The Road by Cormac McCarthy—valuable lessons on leadership, survival, and fatherhood.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “AI tools like ChatGPT—Doug uses AI daily for research, planning, and refining business strategies.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “The ability to do what he wants, when he wants, without external constraints—living life on his terms while making an impact.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkikel/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.