Goya Podcast

What if taking better care of your health and building a successful business could become part of the same journey? In this episode, Roy Coughlan welcomes Anil Ramcharitar, an entrepreneur, global mentor, and business leader with more than 20 years of experience in network marketing and direct sales.

Anil shares his personal journey from Trinidad and Tobago to Canada, overcoming a childhood stutter, developing his confidence, and building international business networks. He explains how personal development, mentorship, and taking consistent action helped him create opportunities and build a career focused on empowering others.

The conversation also explores his work with PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) technology, his approach to business mentorship through the G.O.Y.A. brand, and his mission to make wellness technology more accessible around the world.

From Personal Challenges to Global Business Leadership

Anil discusses how moving to Canada as a teenager in 1988 forced him to become resourceful, adaptable, and independent. Having struggled with shyness and a stuttering impediment, he invested in himself through books, seminars, personal development, and relationships with successful people.

Over the years, he developed a global network of more than 10,000 members across multiple continents and helped individuals build successful businesses.

His philosophy is built around one central message: G.O.Y.A. – Get Off Your Assets.

Anil believes that people often allow fear, doubt, past experiences, and procrastination to prevent them from reaching their potential. Through his mentorship, he helps people approach business seriously, develop their own systems, and take meaningful action.

Understanding PEMF Technology

A major part of the discussion focuses on Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) technology and Anil's work with Only Life devices.

Anil explains how PEMF devices are designed to deliver electromagnetic pulses and discusses their intended applications in wellness, relaxation, and personal care.

He shares his experience introducing the technology to individuals, families, wellness professionals, salons, and businesses. He also discusses different devices, including foot platforms, eye devices, massage wands, and other targeted products.

The conversation covers:

Anil also explains why he uses the technology as part of his personal wellness routine, even though he considers himself relatively healthy.

Important: Health benefits and treatment outcomes discussed in this interview reflect the speakers' personal experiences and claims. They should not be interpreted as established medical evidence or a substitute for professional medical advice. PEMF devices are not proven cures for the conditions mentioned.

Building a Business Around Wellness Technology

Beyond personal use, Anil discusses how people can introduce PEMF technology into existing businesses.

For example, salon owners, spa operators, and wellness professionals may explore offering device sessions as an additional service for their customers.

He explains that his approach begins with understanding each person's existing business, goals, and customer needs before recommending an opportunity.

Anil also shares how he supports people interested in developing an additional income stream, with mentorship and guidance through his G.O.Y.A. brand.

The Importance of Taking Care of Your Health and Wealth

One of Anil's strongest messages is that building a business should not come at the expense of personal well-being.

He encourages entrepreneurs to look after four important areas of life:

He reminds listeners that earning money and achieving business success mean little if they neglect their health and cannot enjoy the opportunities they have worked so hard to create.

Anil's Message to Entrepreneurs and Leaders

Anil closes with a reminder to take responsibility for both health and wealth, remain open to learning, and make informed decisions.

He also emphasizes the importance of doing proper research before partnering with a company or recommending a product. He explains that he conducted his own due diligence before attaching his name and reputation to the PEMF technology business.

His message to listeners is simple: take action, keep learning, look after yourself, and find ways to make a positive difference in other people's lives.

Connect with Anil Ramcharitar

G.O.Y.A. Mentorship: https://goyamentorship.com/

Create Success and Money: https://createsuccessandmoney.com/

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#PEMFTechnology #Wellness #AnilRamcharitar #GoyaMentorship #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, host Anil Ramcharitar sits down with Patrick Toussaint, a fitness enthusiast, physique competitor, and wellness advocate whose personal journey is rooted in resilience, discipline, service, and a commitment to helping others become their best.

Patrick shares his family's journey from Haiti to the United States, his childhood in the Bronx and Miami, and the experiences that shaped his perspective on success, health, and personal growth.

Now based in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Patrick has spent years challenging himself through Spartan races and physique competitions. After transforming his own body through consistent training, nutrition, and coaching, he is now focused on competing at a national level in 2027.

He also explains his approach to helping others improve their health and fitness: understand their personal "why," establish meaningful goals, build consistency, and become comfortable doing hard things.

At the heart of the conversation is one powerful message: All you have is now. Make the most of it.

In This Episode, We Discuss

1. From Haiti to the United States: Patrick's Early Journey

Patrick begins by sharing his family's background. His parents were originally from Haiti before immigrating to New York City, where Patrick was born in the Bronx.

He describes growing up in a challenging environment and later moving with his family to Miami, Florida.

Despite financial limitations, his parents instilled a strong work ethic in him. His mother was an entrepreneur, and their example helped shape Patrick's own interest in business and creating a different future.

Growing up around wealthier classmates also made him question the possibilities available to him. He realized early on that he wanted more than simply working to pay bills. He wanted to experience life, travel, and create opportunities.

2. Breaking Through Self-Imposed Limitations

Patrick explains how his environment initially influenced what he believed was possible for his future.

At one point, he thought wealth was only achievable through a limited number of paths, such as professional sports, entertainment, or other opportunities he saw around him.

His perspective began to change after leaving Miami to attend college in Rexburg, Idaho, and later serving a two-year mission in Houston, Texas, as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Through serving others, he began to see himself beyond the limitations of his environment and background.

He discovered that his identity and potential were not defined by his circumstances or skin color.

3. A Personal Experience That Inspired His Passion for Wellness

One of the most significant experiences in Patrick's life was losing his father at the age of 56.

Patrick explains that his father had previously struggled with alcohol consumption and was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis after becoming seriously ill. Although his father had stopped drinking several years before his diagnosis, the damage had already occurred.

Losing his father when he was just 19 years old left a lasting impression.

The lesson Patrick took from that experience was that what we put into our bodies today can affect our health in the future.

This experience became a major part of his motivation to learn more about nutrition, wellness, fitness, and taking care of the body.

4. Spartan Races and the Pursuit of Physical Excellence

Patrick has spent the last 13 years participating in Spartan races.

After completing two Tough Mudder events, he was introduced to Spartan racing and immediately embraced the challenge.

His annual goal is to complete the three main race distances:

Completing all three in one year earns participants a Spartan Trifecta.

Patrick proudly shares the medals he has earned through these challenges and explains how the races have helped him develop physical endurance, mental resilience, and discipline.

He also enjoys encouraging friends to participate in fitness challenges, creating opportunities for others to push beyond their comfort zones.

5. From Spartan Competitor to Physique Champion

Patrick's fitness journey took another unexpected turn when two friends challenged him to participate in a physique competition after they completed a Spartan race together.

He initially thought the timeline was too short, so he decided to prepare for a later competition.

With the help of a coach, Patrick committed to a six-month transformation.

At the time, he weighed approximately 194 pounds and was advised to lose 30 pounds.

He followed the coaching plan, adjusted his nutrition and training, and reported reducing his body fat from approximately 17% to around 9–9.5%.

He subsequently competed in the Men's 50+ category and earned first place in an untested division.

For his next challenge, Patrick entered natural physique competitions.

In his most recent competition discussed during the interview, he achieved:

His next major goal is to compete on a national stage in 2027.

6. Patrick's Approach to Coaching: Start With Your Why

Patrick explains that his coaching philosophy begins with understanding the person.

Before discussing exercise plans or nutrition, he wants to know:

He believes that understanding someone's personal motivation creates a stronger foundation for lasting change.

His purpose, as he describes it, is to help other people. He wants clients to recognize their potential and understand that meaningful progress comes from consistent effort.

7. The Power of Getting One Percent Better Every Day

A major principle Patrick emphasizes is improving by just one percent each day.

Rather than expecting immediate transformation, he encourages people to focus on small, consistent improvements.

His approach includes:

Patrick believes many people struggle because they fear hard work, failure, and the discomfort that comes with growth.

His message is that these challenges are part of becoming stronger, both physically and mentally.

8. Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, and Recovery

Patrick explains that his approach to fitness considers several important areas of daily life.

These include:

He also mentions a nutritional supplement brand that he recommends to clients, while acknowledging that people are not required to use his products and may consider alternatives.

His broader message is that fitness is not about exercise alone. It requires attention to multiple habits that work together.

9. Why Coaching and Accountability Matter

Patrick openly shares how much he values his own coach.

When he was initially told he needed to lose 30 pounds, he could not picture himself reaching that goal. Instead of trying to figure everything out independently, he committed to following the guidance of someone with experience.

He applies the same philosophy when working with others.

He looks for people who are hungry, teachable, and willing to take action.

He believes a coach can help people see possibilities they may not recognize in themselves, provide accountability, and guide them through challenges.

10. The Power of Living in the Now

Patrick closes with two principles that guide his life:

Learn to do hard things.

Growth happens outside the comfort zone. Whether it is fitness, business, or personal development, people must be willing to challenge themselves and embrace discomfort.

Make the most of now.

Patrick believes the future is never guaranteed. Rather than postponing important goals, he encourages people to ask themselves what they can do today to move closer to the life they want.

His philosophy is simple: set a big goal, take action in the present, and keep showing up.

Key Takeaways

Connect with Patrick Toussaint

Patrick welcomes conversations with people who want to improve their fitness, develop stronger habits, and take a more intentional approach to their health and well-being.

His coaching approach focuses on understanding each person's motivation, setting realistic milestones, building consistency, and helping them become more confident in their capabilities.

If you are ready to take action and want support along your journey, reach out to Patrick and start a conversation.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GOYAMentorship #PatrickToussaint #FitnessJourney #MindsetMatters #PersonalDevelopment #HealthAndWellness

What does it really take to build a successful life, lead businesses, overcome adversity, and become someone whose word carries weight?

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, Anil Ramcharitar reconnects with his longtime friend Sir Darren Jacklin, a business professional, entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and humanitarian. Darren shares his personal journey, from childhood challenges and early entrepreneurship to working with global companies, serving on advisory boards, and supporting humanitarian initiatives around the world.

He opens up about one of the most significant turning points in his life: confronting his own lack of integrity and taking responsibility for past actions. He also explains the systems, standards, and daily disciplines that shape how he approaches business, relationships, health, and personal growth.

From building high-performance teams and evaluating business opportunities to hiking mountains and developing physical resilience, Darren offers practical lessons on accountability, consistency, and becoming the person capable of achieving meaningful results.

In This Episode, We Explore

1. Who Is Sir Darren Jacklin?

Darren describes himself as an entrepreneur and business professional who buys, builds, and sells companies. His work includes mergers and acquisitions, acquiring income-producing assets, scaling businesses, and serving on paid advisory boards and boards of directors internationally.

He also discusses his involvement in humanitarian initiatives through the Link Foundation, which supports projects focused on education, clean drinking water, poverty alleviation, and food security.

Outside business, Darren is passionate about physical fitness, hiking, and exploring challenging destinations. He shares experiences from Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kailash, along with his plans to prepare for an Everest Base Camp expedition.

2. Turning Childhood Challenges Into Entrepreneurial Drive

Darren speaks openly about growing up feeling misunderstood and being placed in special education throughout his school years after being identified as having learning and reading difficulties.

He also shares the impact of losing a sibling during childhood and how those early experiences shaped the way he viewed the world.

Rather than allowing his circumstances to define his future, Darren began developing his entrepreneurial instincts at a young age. At just seven years old, he started his first business, Rent a Kid, offering services such as cutting grass, shovelling snow, and delivering newspapers.

By the age of nine, he had hired two of his friends to help him.

His story illustrates how initiative, resourcefulness, and the ability to recognize opportunities can begin developing early in life.

3. The Turning Point: Confronting a Lack of Integrity

One of the most powerful parts of the interview is Darren's discussion of personal integrity.

He explains that earlier in his career, fear and financial pressure sometimes led him to exaggerate or embellish information to close deals and make himself look better.

Eventually, he recognized that this behaviour was a significant blind spot.

His turning point came when he made a written list of people he believed he had misled or treated without integrity. He then contacted them individually and had difficult conversations to acknowledge what he had done.

Some people accepted the conversations, while others chose not to continue their relationships with him.

For Darren, the experience reinforced a principle that continues to guide his life:

Without integrity, nothing works.

He believes that keeping your word is fundamental to building trust, meaningful relationships, and successful businesses.

4. Your Words Create Your World

Darren explains that a person's words carry power when they are consistently supported by action.

He believes that people often weaken their own credibility by making promises they do not keep.

His approach is to treat commitments seriously and build a lifestyle around accountability, responsibility, and discipline.

Rather than simply talking about goals, he encourages people to create structures that make following through part of their daily routine.

His philosophy is straightforward: do what you say you are going to do.

5. Goals, Standards, and Non-Negotiable Commitments

Darren shares that he has documented more than 7,000 goals in his personal master plan.

However, he emphasizes that having goals is not enough. People also need standards that guide their everyday decisions.

He organizes his life around a structured calendar, using colour coding and scheduled commitments to ensure that important priorities receive attention.

His non-negotiable commitments include:

He explains that if something is not scheduled, it is much less likely to happen.

The lesson is to move beyond wishing for results and create a practical system that supports consistent execution.

6. Accountability: Make Your Commitments Mean Something

Darren challenges the way people often use the phrase "skin in the game."

He believes accountability should involve more than simply saying that something matters or making a casual commitment.

When he advises entrepreneurs and business leaders, he emphasizes clear responsibilities, measurable results, and meaningful consequences for failing to follow through.

He also describes how he evaluates people through smaller commitments.

For example, he may recommend a book, podcast, or video and ask someone to follow up after reviewing it.

These small actions help reveal whether someone is genuinely committed or simply enthusiastic in the moment.

His point is that reliability is demonstrated through behaviour, not promises.

7. Building High-Performance Teams and Businesses

Darren reflects on his experience helping a company grow from a startup into a publicly traded, multibillion-dollar business.

He describes being part of a team that, according to his account, grew to more than 80,000 people across 24 countries and five continents.

He recalls the early challenges, including criticism from competitors and the difficulties of building momentum in an established industry.

He credits the team's progress to having people who were committed, accountable, responsible, and aligned around high standards.

He also discusses his work with entrepreneurs and companies that want to grow beyond their current level.

His approach focuses on identifying opportunities, recognizing underutilized assets, developing additional revenue streams, managing risk, and building effective systems and processes.

8. Behaviour Never Lies: Evaluating People Through Action

One of Darren's recurring principles is that people should be evaluated by what they do rather than what they say.

He explains that he sometimes invites people to hike as part of getting to know them and understanding how they approach challenges.

A hiking environment can reveal how someone prepares, responds to discomfort, works with others, and follows through on commitments.

He uses these experiences to observe people's behaviour in situations that are less structured than a typical business meeting.

His message is simple:

He explains that seven years earlier, he was overweight, eating processed foods, and struggling with physical activities that are now part of his everyday life.

Today, he describes himself as much more physically active, with a strong focus on hiking, exercise, and maintaining his fitness.

He discusses the importance of managing energy and building small habits that compound over time.

One example is walking while working when the situation allows it. He describes completing a 26-kilometre walk along Vancouver's seawall while participating in a lengthy Zoom meeting.

He also suggests that people who work from home or an office could consider using a treadmill beneath a standing desk, where appropriate.

The broader lesson is that small, consistent actions can contribute to meaningful changes over time.

10. Change Your Environment to Change Your Results

Darren believes that the people and environments surrounding us have a major influence on our behaviour and progress.

He encourages people to examine who is in their calendar, which social environments they spend time in, and the people they regularly learn from.

He explains that modelling people who have already achieved a result can help make that result feel more attainable.

His advice is to seek environments that encourage growth, creativity, discipline, and accountability.

And if the right opportunities or invitations are not available, he encourages people to build their own table and create an environment that attracts the right people.

11. Due Diligence: Trust, But Verify

Darren closes with an important message about evaluating people and opportunities.

He warns that the internet and social media make it easy for people to exaggerate their achievements, misrepresent opportunities, or promote questionable offers.

He recommends taking time to verify information instead of accepting everything at face value.

He introduces a three-stage framework for evaluating situations:

He encourages people to pay attention to their reactions while also doing proper research and due diligence, particularly before investing money or entering business relationships.

Key Takeaways

Darren's Advice to Remember

"Watch people's feet, not their lips."

The message behind this principle is that real progress is visible through action. People can talk about their ambitions, plans, and intentions, but their consistent behaviour reveals what they are truly committed to.

Darren encourages listeners to stop spending so much time talking about what they want to accomplish and start taking the actions that move them closer to it.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GoyaMentorship #DarrenJacklin #PersonalIntegrity #BusinessLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #HighPerformance

What happens when you decide it is never too late to reinvent yourself? In this milestone 50th episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, host Anil Ramcharitar welcomes Dave Hurley, entrepreneur, fitness professional, resistance band trainer, and mastermind event organizer from County Cork, Ireland.

Dave shares his journey from a shy teenager who discovered confidence through karate to building a successful printing business, transitioning into fitness at 52, and creating an international online fitness business. He also discusses how mentorship, networking, and taking action helped him discover new opportunities and build a vision alongside his son, Dylan.

The conversation explores fitness, entrepreneurship, personal reinvention, family, leadership, international networking, and the importance of turning ideas into action.

Dave grew up in County Cork, Ireland. His fitness journey began at the age of 12, when his mother encouraged him to take up karate.

At the time, Dave was shy and lacked confidence. He also struggled with bronchitis. He credits karate with helping him develop discipline and confidence, while also describing how his health improved during that period.

Fitness became an important part of his life, and he has now spent 48 years personally involved in it.

Dave also learned valuable business lessons from his father, who built a successful painting and decorating business. During school holidays, Dave worked alongside him, gaining early exposure to customer relationships, entrepreneurship, and the value of delivering quality work.

Watching his father build a business from a bicycle gave Dave an example of what commitment and determination could achieve.

In 1994, Dave opened his own printing and design business. Over the following years, he developed it into a successful operation, working with major companies and global brands in Ireland.

However, business growth came with a personal cost.

As his responsibilities increased, Dave gradually stopped prioritizing fitness. Client deadlines, business development, and daily operations left little time for exercise.

By his thirties, he recognized that he was no longer happy with his physical condition. He tried gym memberships and different approaches, but struggled to maintain consistency.

What he really wanted was a practical way to exercise for approximately 30 minutes, anywhere and at any time.

That search eventually led him to resistance band training.

Dave met a personal trainer at a networking event in County Cork who specialized in resistance band training.

After trying the approach, Dave stayed with the trainer for seven years, learning about fitness, nutrition, and resistance band exercises.

As his physical condition improved, his business clients began noticing the difference. Many were successful professionals facing the same challenge he had experienced: finding time to stay fit.

When they asked about his routine, Dave introduced them to resistance bands.

Their encouragement eventually motivated him to pursue formal fitness training. Despite managing a busy printing business, he completed the qualification, studied anatomy and physiology, and graduated with distinction.

His first experience training a client confirmed that he wanted to pursue this work professionally.

At 52, in 2018, Dave made a major decision: he left behind a financially secure printing business after 24 years and committed himself to fitness.

He recognized that he wanted a new chapter, even though others questioned the decision.

Initially, Dave worked with clients in gyms around County Cork. However, he wanted to share resistance band training with a much wider audience.

The COVID period became a turning point in his business. Dave moved his training online, which allowed him to work with people throughout Ireland rather than being limited by geography.

He also acknowledged the personal difficulty of that period, including the loss of his mother.

As his online business developed, he began considering opportunities in the United States. Family connections in Canada and the US, along with his son's plans to study in America, helped strengthen that interest.

His son Dylan eventually introduced him to the professional network he was looking for, leading him to the Connected Leaders Academy (CLA) and its founder, Jose Escobar.

Dave described his first trip to Pennsylvania for a speaker mastermind event hosted by Jose and Brandon as transformative. The experience helped him recognize that his abilities extended beyond fitness.

He had previously enjoyed hosting and organizing events in Ireland, and the trip encouraged him to bring that passion back into his work.

Following the Pennsylvania experience, Dave and his son Dylan created the Emerald Isle Power Mastermind.

For Dave, building something alongside his son has been particularly meaningful. Dylan is pursuing an academic and tennis scholarship at Randolph College in Lynchburg, Virginia, and the two have found ways to combine their interests and ambitions.

Dave's mastermind vision brings people together from different industries and parts of the world. Through in-person events, he aims to create opportunities for connection, learning, collaboration, and personal growth.

He sees mastermind experiences as another way to help people overcome isolation, gain support, and move forward with their goals.

Dave's current work brings together two areas he is passionate about: helping people improve their physical well-being and helping entrepreneurs grow through meaningful connections.

In fitness, he works with people online and in person, helping them build strength and confidence through resistance band training.

He believes that becoming physically stronger can also support mental strength and confidence. He especially enjoys seeing how progress over time can positively influence a person's life and family.

Through masterminds, he brings people together in different locations for several days of learning, networking, and development.

His goal is to help participants get unstuck, explore new possibilities, and build relationships that support their next stage of growth.

Dave also shared plans for expanding the Emerald Isle Power Mastermind internationally.

The first international event was announced on St. Patrick's Day, with Monte Carlo, Monaco, selected as the initial destination.

He explained that the location held personal meaning for him and his family after they had previously visited for the Monaco Tennis Open.

During the interview, Dave mentioned additional destinations being planned or explored, including:

Oslo, Norway

Rome, Italy

Osaka, Japan

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

A special event in Ireland, which he hopes to host in a castle

Dave and Anil also discussed the possibility of inviting Irish actor Cillian Murphy to speak at the future Cork event. It was presented as an idea and aspiration, not a confirmed appearance.

When Anil asked Dave to share his closing advice, Dave offered a simple but powerful message:

We can spend a lot of time thinking about wonderful ideas, but while we are thinking, someone else is doing.

For Dave, the real opportunity lies in execution. Ideas become meaningful when we take action and bring them into the world.

His advice is to recognize fear, stop allowing it to hold you back, and start today.

It is never too late to reinvent yourself. Dave changed direction at 52 and built a new career around something he loved.

Make time for your health. A busy professional life should not mean abandoning physical well-being.

Stay open to unexpected opportunities. Networking, mentorship, and new experiences can reveal possibilities you may not have considered.

Build relationships with intention. Surround yourself with people who encourage growth, collaboration, and meaningful action.

Bring your family into your vision. Dave's work with his son demonstrates the personal value of building something together.

Execution matters. A great idea only becomes reality when you take the first step.

Dave is known as The Resistance Band Man and is involved in online fitness training and the Emerald Isle Power Mastermind.

To connect with Dave, explore the following:

Connected Leaders Academy: https://connectedleaders.academy

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#DaveHurley #ResistanceBandTraining #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth #Goyamentorship #LandedForSuccess

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, host Anil Ramcharitar welcomes Mike Martin, an 80-year-old Vietnam War veteran, former U.S. Navy officer, business leader, mentor, and passionate advocate for veterans.

Mike shares his remarkable life journey, from growing up in a military family and attending schools across multiple countries to serving in Vietnam and building a successful 23-year career with Xerox Corporation.

He also discusses how his experiences in Vietnam, including his exposure to Agent Orange, influenced his interest in holistic health and wellness.

Today, Mike is focused on serving others through mentorship, business coaching, community connections, and veteran advocacy. One of his major priorities is supporting Voices of Freedom 250, an initiative designed to recognize veterans, share their stories, and connect them with resources across the United States.

This conversation is about service, resilience, leadership, and making a difference at every stage of life.

In This Episode, We Discuss

1. Growing Up in a Military Family

Mike begins by sharing his background as a Mexican American born in the United States.

His stepfather served in the U.S. Air Force, which meant Mike experienced a childhood filled with travel and frequent changes.

He attended 28 schools between kindergarten and eighth grade, followed by three different high schools in three states. His family also lived in Europe, France, and Morocco before eventually returning to the United States.

Despite the constant changes, Mike found stability through the Boy Scouts, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

He describes scouting as the beginning of his leadership development and an important influence on the person he became.

2. Joining the U.S. Navy and Serving in Vietnam

After graduating from high school in 1965, Mike began studying at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

When he received his draft notice, he decided that if he was going to serve in the military, he wanted to do so as an officer.

Through the U.S. Navy Reserve program, he pursued the education and training required to qualify for Officer Candidate School.

He became a Navy officer on October 25, 1968, and was assigned as a Navy supply officer.

Although he trained for duties aboard a Navy ship, his assignment took him to Vietnam, where he worked at a major logistics facility in Da Nang, South Vietnam.

At just 23 years old, Mike became a trucking foreman responsible for more than 100 trucks and drivers, coordinating the movement of cargo from the piers throughout the surrounding area.

His experience in Vietnam became one of the defining chapters of his life.

3. Building a 23-Year Career at Xerox

Following his active-duty military service, Mike transitioned into the corporate world.

He joined Xerox Corporation, where he developed his career through sales and management.

Over 23 years, he worked in several roles, including:

Mike eventually faced a decision about moving to Rochester, New York, to continue advancing within the organization. As a West Coast person, he chose a different path and remained in California.

His time at Xerox gave him valuable experience in sales, business development, leadership, and working with people, skills he continues to use in his work today.

4. Vietnam, Agent Orange, and His Interest in Holistic Wellness

Mike explains that his experiences in Vietnam had a lasting impact on his health and his outlook on wellness.

He discusses his exposure to Agent Orange, the herbicide used during the Vietnam War to remove jungle vegetation.

He also describes his involvement with a Vietnam veterans organization in Danville, California, where he served on the board for approximately 15 years and became director of its speakers bureau.

Through this work, he spoke about Vietnam, veterans' experiences, and the long-term effects of military service.

His personal experiences motivated him to investigate different approaches to health and wellness, including holistic health practices.

Mike recognizes that conventional medicine has important applications, particularly in emergency care, while also expressing an interest in exploring other wellness approaches.

5. From Corporate Leadership to Mentorship and Business Coaching

Mike has taken the skills developed throughout his military and corporate careers and applied them to helping others.

His current activities include:

He describes himself as a giver and connector who enjoys bringing people together to help them achieve their goals.

At 80 years old, Mike remains active, engaged, and committed to sharing the lessons he has learned throughout his life.

6. Supporting Veterans Through the Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Based in the Houston, Texas area, Mike is actively involved with the Veterans Chamber of Commerce, where he serves as an ambassador.

He is also involved with a faith-based organization.

Through these relationships, he has built a network of people who share his commitment to helping veterans.

One of his priorities is supporting veterans transitioning from active military service into civilian life, particularly those interested in entrepreneurship and business ownership.

Mike believes that veterans need access to meaningful connections, guidance, and practical resources as they navigate this transition.

7. Voices of Freedom 250: Honoring America's Veterans

One of the most important initiatives Mike discusses is Voices of Freedom 250.

The initiative is connected to the celebration of America's 250th anniversary and aims to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of veterans.

Mike explains that the program is designed as a nationwide tour covering 62 cities, with at least one location in every state.

The initiative includes several important elements:

Veterans Village

Each event location is expected to include a Veterans Village where veterans can connect with organizations, services, and resources that may help address their needs.

Veteran Concierge Support

Volunteers will help guide veterans toward the organizations and resources relevant to their individual circumstances.

Digital Honor Wall

The initiative includes a digital wall recognizing veterans and providing an opportunity for their service to be acknowledged.

Veteran Sponsorships

Mike explains that a $50 donation is intended to sponsor one veteran's participation in the program.

Veteran Stories

One of the project's major goals is to collect 250,000 stories from veterans across the country.

Veterans will be able to submit their stories online or record them at designated events through an on-site recording studio.

8. Houston Launch and Nationwide Participation

Mike shares that the first event discussed in the interview is scheduled for November 7 at NRG in Houston, Texas.

The event is expected to include a large concert, with country music group Big & Rich announced as the headline entertainment.

Former military musicians and other performers are also expected to participate.

The organizers are looking for:

Mike encourages people to explore the initiative and find ways to contribute.

Learn more and get involved:

https://voicesoffreedom250.com/

9. Helping Veterans Navigate Life After Military Service

Another important part of Mike's work is helping younger veterans transition from active duty into civilian life.

He explains that the transition can mean different things to different people.

For some, it involves finding employment. For others, it may mean starting a business, rebuilding their support networks, or accessing appropriate services.

Mike is particularly interested in helping veterans connect with people who understand their experiences and can guide them toward available resources.

He also discusses the importance of understanding post-traumatic stress and the challenges that veterans may experience after exposure to combat.

He references the book Achilles in Vietnam as a resource that explores the historical and psychological effects of warfare.

His message is that veterans should not feel they have to navigate these challenges alone.

10. A Lifetime Commitment to Serving Others

Throughout the interview, Mike returns to one central theme: helping people.

Whether through his military service, corporate career, veteran organizations, business coaching, or community involvement, he has consistently looked for ways to contribute.

He believes in connecting people, sharing experiences, and using the knowledge gained throughout life to help others move forward.

At 80, he continues to mentor, collaborate, and support causes that matter to him.

His story is a reminder that making a difference does not have an age limit.

Key Takeaways

Connect with Mike Martin

Mike welcomes conversations with people who are passionate about serving veterans, building community connections, and supporting meaningful causes.

He is particularly interested in connecting with:

Mike is also available to share his experiences and perspectives with people who may benefit from his military, corporate, and business background.

Connect with Mike through the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show community.

Support Voices of Freedom 250

Mike encourages viewers and listeners to learn more about the nationwide initiative and find ways to support its mission of recognizing veterans and preserving their stories.

Website: https://voicesoffreedom250.com/

Visit the website to learn about sponsorship opportunities, veteran participation, event locations, and ways to get involved.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GOYAMentorship #VietnamVeteran #VoicesOfFreedom250 #VeteranSupport #Leadership #CommunityService

In interview #47 of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, host Anil Ramcharitar welcomes Elke Scholz, a brain health and lifestyle expert based in Ontario's Muskoka region.

With nearly 30 years of experience in her field, Elke shares her personal journey with anxiety and how it sparked her curiosity about the connection between the brain, body, and overall well-being.

The conversation explores brain health, self-care, lifestyle practices, curiosity, personal responsibility, and the importance of giving yourself grace. Elke also explains her approach to working with clients, describing herself as a detective who looks beyond surface-level symptoms to explore what may be contributing to their challenges.

Her central message is that well-being is an ongoing practice, and that people should remain curious, ask questions, and take an active role in understanding their own bodies.

Meet Elke Scholz

Elke is passionate about helping people improve their lives. She finds fulfillment in making someone's day, helping them laugh, and sharing knowledge that continues to benefit people years after they first encounter her work.

Her own experiences with anxiety, stuttering, migraines, and flu-like symptoms during childhood led her to explore why people experience certain physical and emotional challenges.

That curiosity eventually became a major part of her professional journey.

Today, Elke focuses on brain health and lifestyle, helping clients investigate their concerns and explore ways to support their overall well-being.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

1. Turning Personal Challenges into a Passion for Helping Others

Elke opens up about experiencing anxiety from a young age, at a time when these experiences were rarely discussed openly.

She describes how anxiety sometimes felt like carrying a heavy cloak throughout the day, while at other times it seemed to disappear within minutes.

Trying to understand these experiences made her curious about the relationship between the mind, emotions, and body.

Her story is a reminder that personal challenges can inspire a lifelong commitment to learning and helping others.

2. Why Brain Health Deserves Attention

Elke identifies brain health as a central priority in her personal lifestyle and client work.

She discusses the importance of considering the brain as part of a larger interconnected system rather than looking at individual parts of the body in isolation.

The conversation touches on:

Elke encourages people to think more broadly about what supporting their health actually involves.

3. Becoming a Detective in Your Own Health Journey

One of Elke's descriptions of her approach is that she acts like a detective.

When someone comes to her with a concern, she wants to explore the mystery behind what they are experiencing rather than focusing only on the obvious symptoms.

She emphasizes curiosity, asking questions, and looking deeper into individual circumstances.

This approach reflects her belief that each person is different and that there is no single lifestyle solution that works identically for everyone.

4. Taking Ownership of Self-Care

Anil and Elke discuss the importance of becoming more responsible and proactive about personal well-being.

They share personal experiences of navigating health concerns and the frustration that can arise when someone feels their symptoms have not been fully explained.

Elke encourages people to become active participants in understanding their bodies, while recognizing the importance of professional expertise.

Her message is not about having all the answers immediately. It is about remaining curious and continuing to seek appropriate guidance.

5. Living an Active and Vital Lifestyle

Elke shares how her lifestyle includes activities that help her stay engaged with life.

She enjoys:

She describes having the energy and physical capability to continue doing the activities she enjoys.

Her lifestyle reflects her emphasis on maintaining vitality and making well-being part of everyday life.

6. Curiosity, Self-Trust, and Giving Yourself Grace

When asked what advice she would offer viewers, Elke shares several important principles.

Stay curious. Keep asking questions and remain open to learning. Don't assume that the first explanation is the only explanation.

Give yourself grace. You will not get everything right every time. Even people who work in health and personal development experience anxiety, overwhelm, and setbacks.

Trust yourself enough to pay attention. Notice how you feel and seek appropriate answers when something does not seem right.

Remember that every body is different. What works for one person may not work for someone else.

7. Life Is Practice

One of Elke's strongest messages is that life is practice.

She explains that people sometimes try a technique once and conclude that it does not work. But meaningful change often requires repetition and patience.

She compares this to going to the gym: lifting a few weights once does not automatically produce a transformed body.

The same principle applies to personal development. Whether you are learning a new skill, changing a habit, or working toward better well-being, consistency matters.

Practical Takeaways

Key Takeaway

Life is practice. Stay curious, give yourself grace, and keep showing up for yourself.

Elke's message is a reminder that personal growth and well-being are not destinations we reach overnight. They develop through curiosity, consistent effort, self-awareness, and a willingness to keep learning.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GOYAMentorship #BrainHealth #HealthyLifestyle #PersonalGrowth #SelfCare #WellnessJourney

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, Anil welcomes Julija Sovane, a global business coach, go-to-market strategist, public speaker, and TEDx speaker based in Riga, Latvia.

With more than 20 years of international experience across aviation, IT, fintech, finance, banking, and manufacturing, Julija helps businesses expand beyond their existing markets and build sustainable international growth strategies.

In this conversation, she shares how she went from working with organizations in a small Baltic country to becoming a global business expert, helping companies enter unfamiliar markets, build strategic partnerships, and understand the cultural differences that influence business success.

She also explains her five-step go-to-market approach, shares examples from her work in international aviation and fintech, and offers a powerful perspective on leadership, mindfulness, and letting go of the illusion of control.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

1. From Latvia to the Global Business Stage

Julija introduces herself and shares her connection to Latvia, a small but picturesque country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe.

From an early age, she felt drawn to connecting people across countries, cultures, and languages. She believed that even someone coming from a small country could make a global impact by building relationships and helping organizations expand internationally.

That vision shaped her career and led her into international business environments, where she helped local organizations explore opportunities beyond their home markets.

Today, she describes herself as a go-to-market strategist and global business coach with more than 20 years of experience.

2. What Does a Go-to-Market Strategist Do?

Julija explains that many companies have excellent products and services but lack clarity about how to introduce them successfully into new markets.

Her work helps businesses answer essential questions:

She emphasizes that expanding internationally requires much more than simply exporting a product or translating marketing materials.

Businesses need to understand the market, the people, the culture, and the value they can genuinely bring.

3. The Five-Step Go-to-Market Strategy

Julija has developed a five-step go-to-market approach designed to help businesses move from uncertainty and limited market understanding toward a structured international growth strategy.

Her approach includes:

4. Helping an Airline Expand from Three Destinations to 68

One of Julija's most significant career examples comes from the aviation industry.

She describes working with an airline that operated only three destinations from its hub but wanted to expand to 68 destinations within five years.

The company did not have a clear roadmap for achieving that ambition.

Julija helped identify market opportunities, develop international partnerships, and navigate negotiations across different cultures.

She explains that understanding local markets and building the right relationships were essential to the expansion process.

She proudly describes her contribution to helping her national airline develop an international presence.

5. International Expansion in Fintech and Other Industries

Julija also shares her experience in the fintech industry, where she worked with partners to help businesses enter markets with very different commercial and cultural environments.

She mentions challenges involving expansion into African markets and navigating markets such as Turkey, where local business structures and preferences can make international entry more complex.

Her experience also extends to manufacturing companies that need help identifying where to expand their products and how to develop effective sales strategies.

She has worked with hundreds of companies, helping them move from initial market analysis to structured commercial execution.

6. Why Cultural Intelligence Matters in Global Business

A major theme throughout the interview is the importance of understanding cultural differences.

Julija explains that companies entering unfamiliar markets can struggle when they assume the same sales, marketing, and negotiation strategies will work everywhere.

For example, a Scandinavian business entering Asia may need a very different approach from an American company expanding into Scandinavia.

Successful international expansion requires:

She believes that cultural intelligence and empathy are just as important as traditional market research.

7. Your Value Proposition Is the Key to Winning New Markets

Julija highlights one particularly important principle: businesses should focus not only on their products but also on the value they bring to each specific market.

A product that succeeds in one country may need a different positioning strategy in another.

She explains that businesses must understand their value proposition in the context of a particular market, industry, and even city.

This requires preparation, empathy, market research, and conversations with people who understand the local environment.

Once a business understands how its offering solves a relevant problem for a particular audience, it can build a much stronger entry strategy.

8. Business Strategy Starts with Mindset

Although Julija works extensively with market strategy and business development, she explains that her work increasingly involves mindset and mindfulness.

She believes businesses struggle when leadership teams become overwhelmed by uncertainty, internal differences, and disconnected departments.

Rather than viewing uncertainty only as a problem, she encourages business owners and leaders to recognize that it can also create opportunities.

Her goal is to help organizations approach growth with greater clarity, harmony, and awareness.

9. Let Go of Control and Build Connection

When asked to share her final words of wisdom, Julija offers a powerful message:

Control is one of the biggest illusions in life.

She encourages people to stop trying to control every situation and instead focus on building connections with themselves and others.

Her advice is to replace excessive control with:

She believes that when people become more open to life's transitions and opportunities, they can experience the process of living and growing with greater freedom.

Key Takeaways

The biggest lesson: Global growth begins with understanding the value you bring to the people you want to serve. Build the right connections, understand the market, and remain open to opportunities you may not have anticipated.

Connect with Julija Sovane

Julija welcomes opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs, business owners, and organizations interested in international expansion, market entry, business strategy, and leadership development.

To explore how she may be able to support your business, connect with her through the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship and Landed for Success communities.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GoyaMentorship #GlobalBusiness #GoToMarketStrategy #InternationalExpansion #BusinessGrowth #MindfulLeadership

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, host Anil Ramcharitar welcomes Dr. Daniel, a Halifax-based Bitcoin educator, former dentist, and passionate teacher.

After spending approximately 20 years in dentistry, including teaching other dental professionals, Dr. Daniel discovered a new passion in Bitcoin education. Following his own difficult experiences with cryptocurrency scams and financial losses, he decided to help others understand Bitcoin safely and practically.

His education program is designed for beginners who have heard about Bitcoin but don't know how it works, how to acquire it, or how to protect it.

Rather than offering investment advice or asking participants to hand over their money, Dr. Daniel focuses on practical education, wallet security, understanding common scams, and learning how to maintain control of your own Bitcoin.

The conversation also explores the importance of following your passion, learning from difficult experiences, and turning knowledge into something that benefits others.

Meet Dr. Daniel

Originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, Dr. Daniel spent much of his professional life in dentistry.

His background includes:

Outside his professional work, Dr. Daniel enjoys fitness and has maintained a gym routine for nearly 40 years. He describes exercise as his personal therapy.

He is also a husband and father of two young boys. In his free time, he enjoys speed chess, backgammon, card games, and spending time with his family.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

1. From Dentistry to Bitcoin Education

Dr. Daniel shares how his professional journey moved from dentistry into the world of Bitcoin education.

For years, he focused on dentistry and teaching other dental professionals. Like many people, he initially dismissed Bitcoin because it seemed confusing and disconnected from everyday life.

Eventually, he decided to investigate it more seriously.

His learning journey included difficult experiences, including being scammed and losing a significant amount of money after trusting the wrong people.

Rather than allowing those experiences to make him abandon the subject, he used them as motivation to help others avoid similar mistakes.

That experience became the foundation of his work as a Bitcoin educator.

2. Bridging the Gap Between Hearing About Bitcoin and Understanding It

Dr. Daniel explains that many people have heard of Bitcoin but still don't understand what it is, how it works, or how to acquire it.

There is often a significant gap between knowing the terminology and feeling confident enough to take practical steps.

His education program is designed for people who:

His focus is on education rather than encouraging people to invest.

3. Learning Bitcoin Like Learning to Drive

One of the most interesting parts of the interview is Dr. Daniel's comparison between learning Bitcoin and learning how to drive a car.

He explains that driving education combines theory with practical experience.

You learn the basics, get into a vehicle, and have someone guide you through the actual process.

Bitcoin education, on the other hand, is often presented through endless videos, articles, and technical explanations.

People may understand some of the theory but still feel completely lost when it comes to actually using Bitcoin.

Dr. Daniel wants to change that by teaching people through practical, step-by-step instruction.

4. How the Bitcoin Education Program Works

Dr. Daniel describes a structured learning experience designed to help beginners understand Bitcoin through guided practice.

The program includes:

He explains that participants work through the material over approximately one week.

His stated goal is to help beginners understand the process and learn how to acquire and hold their own Bitcoin safely.

5. Why You Should Always Maintain Control of Your Money

A particularly important part of the conversation is Dr. Daniel's emphasis on financial control.

He makes a clear distinction between an education platform and an investment platform.

His program is designed to teach people how Bitcoin works. Participants do not send their investment money to him or deposit funds into his education platform.

Instead, he teaches them how to understand the process, identify appropriate places to purchase Bitcoin, and manage their own wallets.

His central message is:

Always maintain control of your own money.

He also warns against platforms or individuals that encourage people to transfer funds based on promises of unusually high returns.

6. Understanding Bitcoin Scams and Protecting Yourself

Dr. Daniel shares how his own experience with scams influenced his decision to become an educator.

He explains that people can be vulnerable when they rely on recommendations from friends or acquaintances without understanding the underlying platform or business model.

He also points out that scams are not limited to cryptocurrency. Similar tactics can target people through banking and other financial services.

His approach focuses on helping people recognize common warning signs and understand how to protect their assets.

He believes education is one of the most important tools people can develop to reduce their exposure to scams.

7. Practical Learning Instead of Endless Theory

Dr. Daniel explains why he prefers live teaching rather than relying entirely on pre-recorded videos.

When people learn together in a live environment, they can ask questions about the exact steps they do not understand.

He combines that interaction with a structured learning platform so participants can follow written instructions and photographs at their own pace.

He also describes including a Bitcoin transfer as part of the curriculum, which he says gives participants practical experience receiving Bitcoin and understanding wallet addresses and security procedures.

This hands-on approach is intended to help beginners become more comfortable with the technology.

8. Find Your Passion and Build a Life Around It

When asked for his words of wisdom, Dr. Daniel reflects on his own journey.

He explains that teaching and helping others was something he enjoyed from a very young age.

However, he allowed external expectations to influence his career decisions, moving through engineering, mathematics, and eventually dentistry.

After approximately 20 years in dentistry, he found himself returning to education and teaching through Bitcoin.

His advice is simple:

He acknowledges that pursuing your passion does not eliminate challenges, but it can make the work feel more meaningful and rewarding.

Who Can Benefit from Connecting with Dr. Daniel?

His education program may be relevant to people who:

Practical Takeaways

Key Takeaway

Education is power. Learn how something works before deciding whether it belongs in your financial future.

Dr. Daniel's message is that people should not allow confusion or fear to prevent them from learning about emerging technologies. With proper education, practical guidance, and a strong focus on security, beginners can make more informed decisions.

Connect with Dr. Daniel

Dr. Daniel offers a beginner-focused Bitcoin education program designed to help people understand Bitcoin through practical, guided learning.

Website: https://thebitcoineducationprogram.com/

Visitors can explore the program's Questions section to learn more about the educational approach and find answers to common questions.

If you're interested in learning about Bitcoin without being pressured into an investment, visit his website and explore whether the program is appropriate for you.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GOYAMentorship #BitcoinEducation #BitcoinSecurity #Cryptocurrency #FinancialLiteracy #DigitalAssets

What if your podcast could become more than a passion project? What if it could help you build your authority, attract the right clients, grow your business, and generate revenue?

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, Anil Ramcharitar sits down with Roy Coughlan, known as The Podfather, an entrepreneur, podcast strategist, and founder of The Podfather Network.

Roy shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting small businesses as a child in Ireland to building companies in property development and eventually establishing a podcast network. He explains how he helps podcasters grow their audiences, improve their visibility, reach the charts, and turn their shows into valuable business assets.

The conversation explores podcast monetization, strategic marketing, systems, podcast branding, SEO, and the importance of making podcasting work for your business rather than simply producing content.

Roy also shares his personal approach to coaching, explaining why he adapts his support to each person's budget, experience, personality, and pace.

Whether you're thinking about launching your first podcast or trying to scale an existing show, this episode offers practical insights into making podcasting a more strategic part of your business.

In This Episode, We Explore

1. Who Is Roy Coughlan? The Serial Entrepreneur Behind The Podfather

Roy describes himself as a serial entrepreneur whose business journey began at a very young age.

At nine, he was washing cars and delivering leaflets. At eleven, he started a newspaper round, and by fourteen, he had purchased a lawn mower to offer grass-cutting services.

His entrepreneurial interests continued into adulthood. He bought, repaired, and resold motorbikes, studied construction economics, and worked for major mechanical contracting companies before moving into regional management.

Even while employed, Roy continued building businesses, including a website development company.

He also shares some of his personal interests, including motorbikes, skydiving, travel, and spending time with his son.

2. From Ireland to Poland: Building a Property Business

Originally from Cork, Ireland, Roy explains how he ended up living in Poland for nearly two decades.

After visiting Poland while in a relationship, he recognized opportunities in the property market and decided to establish a property business.

Although the relationship eventually ended, he continued developing the business.

He shares that his property experience included renovating more than 200 properties, building 30 apartments, and developing houses.

This chapter of his journey demonstrates his ability to recognize opportunities, adapt to changing circumstances, and build businesses in different environments.

3. How Roy Became The Podfather

Roy explains how the name The Podfather came about.

He had been helping people get booked as guests on podcasts, including clients who appeared on hundreds of shows.

One client, after experiencing the business opportunities generated through podcast appearances, referred to Roy as the Podfather. Roy liked the name and decided to build a brand around it.

That led to the creation of The Podfather podcast and eventually the wider Podfather Network.

Roy currently runs multiple podcasts and works with other podcasters to help them develop their shows, improve their marketing, grow their audiences, and explore monetization opportunities.

4. Building a Podcast Network That Creates Revenue

Roy highlights a challenge many podcasters face: they invest time, energy, and money into producing episodes but do not necessarily generate revenue from their efforts.

He initially started podcasting with a mission-driven approach, creating shows around subjects such as communication, meditation, and personal development.

However, the costs of running multiple shows, including software and scheduling tools, eventually led him to rethink the business model.

He developed a strategy that focuses on:

His goal is to create a structure where podcasting can be both meaningful and financially sustainable.

5. Podcast Growth: Turning Downloads Into Visibility

Roy shares examples of clients who experienced significant audience growth after working with him.

One client reportedly went from approximately 23,500 downloads over five years to around 600,000 downloads after three months of working together.

Another client reportedly increased from approximately 3,500 downloads to 250,000 downloads over a similar three-month period.

Roy also discusses how improved rankings and visibility can create additional credibility.

When podcasters share their chart positions and audience milestones, potential listeners may become curious and discover their shows.

These examples illustrate Roy's approach to podcast growth, although individual results will vary depending on the show, audience, content, and promotional strategy.

6. Why Podcast Monetization Matters More Than Likes

Anil and Roy discuss how many podcast creators focus heavily on social media likes, comments, and engagement without necessarily connecting those metrics to business results.

Roy's approach is to help podcasters understand the commercial potential of their shows.

A podcast can become a tool for:

The objective is not simply to become popular. It is to build a podcast that supports meaningful business outcomes.

7. Systemizing Podcast Production and Marketing

Roy explains that one of the reasons he can manage multiple podcasts is that he systemizes his processes.

He also provides educational resources through his school community, sharing strategies and practical guidance with podcasters.

He helps people understand how to make podcasting more manageable rather than allowing it to become an overwhelming additional responsibility.

His approach includes guidance on podcast setup, branding, marketing, and promotional strategies.

8. Podcast Branding: Make Your Show Stand Out

Roy highlights the importance of podcast artwork and visual branding.

He explains that many people design podcast graphics on a computer without considering how those graphics will actually appear on a phone.

Since listeners often discover podcasts through platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify, artwork needs to be clear, recognizable, and attention-grabbing at smaller sizes.

He also discusses the importance of choosing the right podcast name and domain.

A podcast name should communicate what the show is about, while the domain should support discoverability and search engine optimization.

Roy shares that he considers alternative domain extensions, such as .org, when the preferred .com domain is unavailable.

9. Personalized Coaching: Work at Your Own Pace

One of the most valuable aspects of Roy's approach is how he adapts his coaching to each individual.

Rather than expecting everyone to follow the same program, he begins with a discovery call to understand the person's goals, experience, and budget.

Depending on their circumstances, he may recommend:

Roy also provides access to his WhatsApp number for clients who need support between scheduled sessions.

He recognizes that some people want to move quickly, while others prefer to take their time refining every detail.

His philosophy is to meet people where they are and help them progress without making the process overwhelming.

10. Business Is a People Business

Toward the end of the interview, Roy shares an important lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone considering starting a podcast.

He believes that business ultimately comes down to people and relationships.

Whether someone is working as an employee, speaking with colleagues, serving customers, or building a business, the ability to communicate and connect with others is essential.

He also explains how conducting interviews has influenced his own personal growth by exposing him to new ideas, experiences, books, and perspectives.

Podcasting has helped him learn while also creating opportunities to help others.

11. Protect Your Reputation: Always Do the Right Thing

Roy closes with a powerful reminder about integrity and reputation.

He believes that people should treat their clients with the same care and respect they would show their loved ones.

In his experience, a person's reputation travels quickly through professional networks.

When people consistently deliver on their promises and treat others well, they become the people others naturally recommend.

His advice is to focus on doing the right thing, building genuine relationships, and ensuring that your actions reflect your values.

Key Takeaways

Roy's Advice to Remember

"Everything's a people business."

Roy's message is that success is built through communication, relationships, trust, and consistently doing the right thing.

Whether you're building a podcast, running a company, or working with clients, the way you treat people will influence the opportunities and relationships that come your way.

Connect with Roy Coughlan | The Podfather

Roy helps podcasters launch, grow, market, and monetize their shows through coaching, education, and The Podfather Network.

Website: https://roycoughlan.com/

Virtual Assistants: https://va.world/

Connected Leaders Academy: https://connectedleaders.academy

Brain Upgrade: https://brainupgrade.org/

The Authority Alliance: https://theauthorityalliance.com/

EMF Protection: https://protectfromemf.org/

Health and Wellness: https://podfather.thefrequencyawakening.com/

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#Podcasting #PodcastMarketing #PodcastMonetization #ThePodfather #Entrepreneurship #GoyaMentorship

In this episode of the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship Show, Anil sits down with Jose Escobar, entrepreneur, business coach, consultant, speaker, and 26-time published author. Jose is the founder of Connected Leaders Academy and The Entrepreneurs Bookshelf, two businesses he launched in January 2022.

After spending 18 years in the corporate world with organizations including Capital One, PNC Bank, Liberty Mutual, and State Farm, Jose decided to take his experience, relationships, and passion for personal development into entrepreneurship.

Within 15 months, he scaled his businesses to seven figures through organic growth, without relying on paid advertising, websites, SEO, funnels, or an established email list.

Today, Connected Leaders Academy has more than 700 members across all 50 US states and 49 international countries. Built around relationships, referrals, collaboration, and servant leadership, the community brings together entrepreneurs and experts who want to create meaningful connections and make a global impact.

In this conversation, Jose explains why he created the Academy, what makes its culture different, and why simplicity, consistent action, and developing your network are essential to entrepreneurial success.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

1. Meet Jose Escobar: Entrepreneur, Author, and Family Man

Jose describes himself as a down-to-earth, lighthearted person who values faith, family, health, and meaningful relationships.

He is happily married to his wife, Katie, and they have six children. Family plays an important role in his life, and he enjoys including them in his travels and entrepreneurial journey.

Outside business, Jose has a strong interest in health and fitness, with 15 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai kickboxing. He is also an avid reader and book collector, with thousands of books in his personal library.

Professionally, he is a coach, consultant, speaker, and 26-time published author.

2. From 18 Years in Corporate America to Entrepreneurship

Before starting his own companies, Jose spent 18 years working in the corporate world.

His professional experience included organizations such as:

He also served as a sales director for a global martial arts company, overseeing its US territory.

Over time, he recognized that although he was helping organizations grow, his own income was not increasing at the same pace.

That realization encouraged him to take his experience, relationships, and knowledge into the business world.

On January 15, 2022, he launched two businesses: The Entrepreneurs Bookshelf and Connected Leaders Academy.

Within 15 months, he says, the businesses reached seven figures through organic growth.

3. What Is Connected Leaders Academy?

Jose explains that Connected Leaders Academy was created to provide something different from traditional networking groups, industry-specific associations, and conventional business communities.

Throughout his personal development journey, he had participated in organizations such as BNI, Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Clubs, Facebook groups, and high-ticket masterminds.

Although these groups offered opportunities, he noticed several recurring challenges:

Jose wanted to create a community where successful entrepreneurs from different industries could build genuine relationships, exchange value, and collaborate.

His vision was to create a network based on trust, service, and meaningful connections rather than constant pitching.

4. A Carefully Curated Global Community

One of the most distinctive aspects of Connected Leaders Academy is its membership selection process.

Jose explains that every member is personally introduced, reviewed, and vetted by him.

At the time of the interview, he reported:

More than 700 members.

Representation across all 50 US states.

Members in 49 international countries.

Approximately 90% referral-based growth.

Around one new member joining per day.

More than 750 people turned away during the selection process.

He emphasizes that the goal is not simply to increase membership numbers.

Instead, he wants to protect the culture and ensure that members are aligned with the community's values.

5. The Culture Behind Connected Leaders Academy

Jose explains that Connected Leaders Academy is designed for established entrepreneurs, experts, and business owners who are serious about their craft and interested in contributing to others.

He looks for people who demonstrate:

He is particularly interested in servant leaders and heart-centered entrepreneurs who recognize that success is not only about personal achievement but also about the value they bring to others.

The Academy is a paid membership community, with different membership options, including monthly, annual, and lifetime arrangements discussed during the interview.

Jose explains that the membership structure also helps maintain commitment and protect the community's environment.

6. Why Entrepreneurs Can Create Global Impact

Jose shares a bigger vision behind Connected Leaders Academy.

He believes entrepreneurs play an important role in changing the world because businesses solve problems through products and services.

Successful businesses also create employment opportunities and contribute to the economies in which they operate.

His thinking is that when you bring together entrepreneurs who are committed to solving meaningful problems, creating jobs, and serving others, their collective influence can extend far beyond their individual businesses.

For Jose, this is what global impact looks like.

It is about connecting the right people so they can accomplish more together than they could independently.

7. The Power of Relationships, Referrals, and Collaboration

A major highlight of the conversation is the importance of building relationships before needing something from someone.

Jose shares how years of serving people, providing advice, attending events, and developing relationships helped him build the foundation for his businesses.

He believes that strong networks create opportunities for:

Anil also shares his own experience as a member of Connected Leaders Academy, explaining how members proactively reach out to connect, offer support, and explore ways to help one another.

The conversation highlights the difference between simply joining a networking group and becoming part of an active relationship-driven community.

8. Complexity Is the Enemy of Execution

When asked to share his most important business lessons, Jose offers a powerful principle:

Complexity is the enemy of execution.

He explains that many entrepreneurs spend too much time trying to master every strategy, platform, and system before taking action.

His own experience demonstrates that businesses can grow without having every marketing tool in place from day one.

He says his companies grew organically without initially relying on:

His message is simple: start with what you already have, take action, learn from mistakes, and improve along the way.

He would rather see someone make progress, encounter problems, and learn from them than remain stuck waiting for everything to be perfect.

9. Develop Your Skills and Stay in Prospecting Mode

Jose emphasizes that the marketplace rewards the value and skills you bring to it.

Entrepreneurs should continually improve their expertise while consistently building relationships and expanding their networks.

His recommendations include:

He also stresses the importance of becoming good at sales because the ability to communicate value and convert opportunities is essential to business growth.

10. Take Massive Action and Position Yourself to Win

Jose encourages entrepreneurs to stop waiting for someone else to give them permission to participate.

Instead, they should be prepared, visible, and willing to get involved.

He believes that the next level of your life is often within reach, but you must recognize your own ability to create it.

His closing message is to simplify, take action, remain consistent, and make the most of the opportunities already available.

Key Takeaways

The biggest lesson: You already have more resources, relationships, and potential than you may realize. Stop waiting for everything to be perfect. Build relationships, develop your skills, take massive action, and create opportunities through the value you bring to others.

Connect with Jose Escobar

Founder of Connected Leaders Academy and The Entrepreneurs Bookshelf

Jose welcomes conversations with established entrepreneurs, experts, and business owners interested in expanding their networks, building strategic relationships, finding referral partners, exploring collaborations, and increasing their visibility.

If you're interested in learning more about Connected Leaders Academy, membership opportunities, or whether the community is the right fit for you, reach out to Jose through the G.O.Y.A. Mentorship and Connected Leaders Academy networks.

About Your Host (Anil)

Production Team

#GoyaMentorship #ConnectedLeadersAcademy #Entrepreneurship #Networking #BusinessGrowth #ServantLeadership