Humans That Build

Effective leadership requires clear standards, repeatable systems, and disciplined execution. I speak with Brandon Thornhill, a former Navy SEAL and instructor, who explains how he translated military rigor into business leadership. We discuss the need for leadership standards, better communication, and processes that prevent instructor or leader drift. I describe his Elite Leadership Blueprint and a 52-week program designed to train every role in a dealership through short weekly lessons and accountability. We also cover practical habits Brandon and his wife use at home, showing how leading oneself improves family and business life. I invite listeners to consider these systems as a path to stronger teams and healthier homes. I welcome Brandon Thornhill and I frame our conversation as a study in leadership forged under pressure and refined in business. I recount his trajectory from a small town in Ohio to the Navy SEAL teams, and I emphasize the formative moment in seventh grade that redirected his path. I outline how Hell Week and the instructor role taught him the necessity of standards, the danger of instructor drift, and the discipline of reproducible systems. I describe his transition from military leader to entrepreneur, his work in network marketing, and the way grief and acquisition events shaped his decision to codify leadership practices into a book and a consulting practice. I highlight the episode’s practical conclusions: leaders must establish clear standards for conduct and for leadership itself, develop repeatable systems, and practice calibrated communication that is firm but fair. I note the personal dimension Brandon shares about his morning and evening routines, his faith and family priorities, and his commitment to protect those rhythms. I close by underscoring our shared conviction that deliberate leadership training, applied consistently, produces measurable improvement in homes and businesses and that accountability and small weekly habits compound into lasting cultural change.

Takeaways:

• I emphasize that leaders must build clear standards and systems to prevent drift and ensure consistent outcomes.
• We learned that leadership requires emotional control, humility, and processes to resolve conflict fairly and promptly.
• I describe Hell Week as a team test that exposes character, demands sacrifice, and enforces shared standards.
• We advise daily personal development, adherence to systems, and repetitive execution to scale discipline across organizations.
• I explain that leadership training must be continuous and integrated into work routines, not isolated weekend events.
• We show that leading at home is foundational, and better self leadership produces stronger families and healthier workplaces.
• I launched a yearlong leadership program and a book to give leaders a practical, step by step blueprint.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Life Time
• Amazon
• Instagram
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Elite Leadership Consulting Group
• The New York Times
• Humans That Build

I present eight key takeaways from a transformative mastermind retreat in Dubrovnik that center on personal growth and decisive action. I describe how doubt and fear are universal, and how we learn more from setbacks than from wins. I reveal that many high achievers feel loneliness and that Donnelle Delgado created a profound sense of support by reaching out to loved ones and sharing personal letters. I stress that consistent personal development, forcing oneself into discomfort, and joining masterminds or retreats accelerate growth. I emphasize the necessity of taking immediate, massive action on the counsel of those doing more than we are. I close by reflecting on the beauty of Italy and Croatia and by urging listeners to invest in small groups and retreats to catalyze meaningful change.

Takeaways:

• I learned that mastermind groups help dissolve doubt and accelerate personal growth through shared accountability and support.
• I observed that setbacks teach more than wins and require reflection, routine changes, and disciplined analysis to improve.
• I experienced profound relief from loneliness when friends and family shared letters proving I am not alone in this journey.
• I commit to daily personal development practices such as reading, journaling, and gratitude as non negotiable habits.
• I force myself into discomfort by traveling, trying new challenges, and engaging strangers to catalyze spiritual and mental growth.
• I take immediate, decisive action on advice from those doing more than me to honor their time and convert insight into results.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Humans That Build
• Alpha Alliance
• Zoom
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Facebook

Humans That Build: James Pritchard, Founder of Integrity Poolscapes

Episode summary

James Pritchard went from addiction and repeated incarceration to founding Integrity Poolscapes, a fast-growing, multimillion-dollar company built on faith, risk, and relentless work. In this conversation, James tells how he got there. He is honest about the dangers he faced and the long odds he beat, and he is clear that his recovery was no accident. He points to trusting God, daily labor, and small choices that slowly replaced self-destruction with responsibility and vision.

James and his wife, Kayci, built the company on a people-first culture. They hired the right people, posted consistently on social media, and let exceptional work earn trust and bring in leads. James credits four things for the growth: trusting God, taking risks, learning from mistakes, and paying his dues.

What we cover

• James's path from addiction and incarceration to business owner
• Why he sees redemption as practical work: showing up, accepting risk, and rebuilding relationships
• How he and Kayci built a people-first culture and hired the right staff
• How consistent social media and excellent work won trust and leads
• The daily practices behind the company: team meetings every day, recitation of core values, dedicated videography, and 3D design services
• Why they added supply and equipment streams to support expansion
• How to scale without losing quality or culture

Key takeaways

1. Second chances are real, and so is the work they require.
2. Restoration comes from humility paired with sustained effort.
3. Growth takes risk. You learn by making mistakes and paying your dues.
4. Culture is a daily habit, not a poster on the wall.
5. As you scale, protect the quality of the work and the people doing it.

Final thought

James's story is a testimony of transformation and resolve. If you are waiting for permission to change, take the risk, put in the work, and give yourself that permission.

Follow Integrity Poolscapes on Facebook.

Companies mentioned in this episode

• Humans That Build
• Integrity Poolscapes
• Integrity Pool & Landscape Supply
• Ascent Dealer Services
• Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark (Ballpark Hilton)
• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Dippin' Dots
• Dropping Bombs

Adam Marburger says "I assert, as the principal maxim of this discourse, that you are not your past, and liberation from antecedent circumstances constitutes the foundational imperative for any person intent upon constructing a meaningful life and enterprise. I distill ten critical lessons I have learned—among them that money functions as a vehicle of freedom, that deliberate appearance and personal branding matter, that a disciplined morning routine and ongoing personal development are indispensable, and that one’s circle of influence determines future trajectory. I underscore the peril of deferment and the necessity of decisive action today rather than postponement into tomorrow. I counsel discovery and monetization of one’s gifts, establishment of multiple revenue streams, pursuit of mentors and coaching, and the practice of gratitude, forgiveness, and reciprocal responsibility to those who depend upon us. I exhort listeners to audit relationships, accept the inevitability of resistance and haters, and commit to sustained growth so that we may transcend circumstance and create generational value. I recount a trajectory from a turbulent adolescence to purposeful leadership and distill ten vital lessons that were absent from formal schooling. I describe how a single, stinging encounter with a counselor catalyzed a fire in me and set the stage for sustained ambition. I insist that we are not our past, and I explain why releasing inherited narratives enables deliberate progress. I treat money as a modality of freedom rather than an end in itself and relate specific practices: show children how business finances operate, view entrepreneurship as a sport to be trained for, and surround yourself with peers who amplify rather than diminish your aspirations. I also emphasize the practicalities of personal presentation and routine. I urge that appearance functions as a communicative asset and that a disciplined morning ritual and personal development plan are nonnegotiable for high achievement. I outline the necessity of multiple revenue streams—investing in markets, maximizing retirement accounts, whole life insurance as a vehicle, and real estate for passive income—and I close with a call to action: act today, not tomorrow, and invest in mentors and coaches to expedite growth."

Takeaways:

• I am not defined by my past or my family lineage, and I can alter generational outcomes through deliberate, sustained effort.
• I regard money as a means to freedom and agency, and I therefore pursue wealth creation to serve my family and to impact my community responsibly.
• I cultivate my personal appearance and brand deliberately, understanding that presentation materially influences opportunities and external perceptions in both professional and social environments.
• I maintain a disciplined morning routine, engage in continuous personal development, and deliberately seek mentors to accelerate my competence and measurable outcomes.
• I audit and curate my circle of influence, excising relationships that impede progress and surrounding myself with individuals who exemplify high achievement and reciprocal support.
• I embrace risk and eschew conformity, electing the less traveled course when necessary so that I may access disproportionate opportunity and long-term growth.
• I identify my core gifts and monetize them through diversified revenue streams, including investments and real estate, while acting promptly rather than deferring aspirations until tomorrow.
• I forgive others and myself for past errors, engage a coach to refine strategy and accountability, and recognize that when I fail to win numerous dependents and communities consequently suffer.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Humans That Build
• Ascent Dealer Services
• Cuzo's Pasta and Pizza
• Alton Elite Jiu-Jitsu
• Lambert–St. Louis International Airport
• Gucci

I focus on how Kyle Watson built Watson Martial Arts and uses jiu jitsu to change many lives. I interview him about his path from early fights to the UFC and The Ultimate Fighter. He shares stories of his first fights, his time on Team GSP, and the hard work of competing and training. We discuss how he left a steady job to start and grow his academy, the systems he built, and the challenges of scaling. I also explore his coaching values, how he measures success by helping students become better versions of themselves, and his plans to keep teaching while balancing family and travel.

Takeaways:

• I described how martial arts shaped my identity and drove my competitive ambition.
• I recalled my first amateur fight in a smoky bar where I earned only a small medal.
• I explained the grueling Ultimate Fighter process including multiple fights in six weeks and strict dieting.
• I described building Watson Martial Arts from a modest start to a large community and affiliate network.
• We emphasized teaching with care to help people grow, change habits, and become their best versions over time.
• I reflected on leadership challenges, the need to adapt systems as the business grows, and the importance of delegation.

Links referenced in this episode:

• watsonbjj.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• UFC
• The Ultimate Fighter
• Danger Zone
• Matt Hughes Academy
• Bodog
• Spike TV
• Kaplan
• Watson Martial Arts
• DirecTV
• The Palms (Palms Casino Resort)
• WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting)
• Alton Gazette
• Hit Squad

The discourse presented herein elucidates the profound journey of personal evolution required to construct meaningful dialogues among individuals. At the forefront of our conversation is the notion that the foundation of external achievement is predicated upon the internal fortification of one’s character and resolve. I engage with Zach Fagas, a distinguished figure in both the realms of real estate and podcasting, as we traverse the complexities of professional growth and the perseverance required to navigate the vicissitudes of life. Our dialogue underscores the importance of genuine human connection and the unwavering commitment to one's craft, devoid of superficial embellishments or shortcuts. Join us as we explore these themes, aiming to inspire and incite impactful change through our shared narratives and insights.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of building meaningful conversations with individuals and sharing impactful stories.
• It highlights the significance of internal development and personal growth before external accomplishments can be fully realized.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace the hard work and dedication required in their pursuits, without relying on shortcuts or hype.
• The discussion reflects on the challenges and psychological hurdles faced in martial arts, particularly the journey through various belt levels in jiu jitsu.
• The conversation elaborates on the real estate market dynamics in St. Louis, indicating opportunities for investment and growth in specific neighborhoods.
• Lastly, the podcast underscores the value of continuous learning and mentorship in achieving success across various domains, including entrepreneurship.

The discourse of this particular episode is predicated upon the compelling journey of Frank Crinite , a luminary within the automotive industry, who shares his profound narrative of resilience and transformation. The conversation commences with an exploration of Frank's early influences and his serendipitous entrance into the car sales realm, catalyzed by familial expectations and personal circumstances. This anecdote serves as a precursor to a deeper examination of his professional ethos, which is characterized by an unwavering commitment to service and community engagement. Frank elucidates how pivotal moments in his life, including a harrowing battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma, catalyzed a profound paradigm shift in his approach to both business and personal interactions. Through this lens, he articulates the importance of empathy, authenticity, and the human connection in fostering not only personal success but also collective growth within the automotive sector. The episode subsequently delves into the establishment of the Pinnacle Society, a collaborative initiative aimed at empowering high-performing sales professionals. Frank's reflections on the intricate dynamics of competition and camaraderie among top-tier salespeople underscore a common theme: the elevation of others is paramount to sustained success. He passionately advocates for a culture devoid of ego and entrenched in mutual support, whereby industry leaders actively engage in uplifting one another to achieve greater heights. This narrative, rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, culminates in an earnest call to action for listeners to embrace vulnerability, foster community, and prioritize genuine relationships in all their endeavors.

Takeaways:

• The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of personal development in achieving professional success.
• Listeners are introduced to Frank Crenitti, an exemplary figure in the automotive industry.
• The discussion highlights the importance of community involvement and supporting local charities.
• Crenitti shares his transformative experience with cancer, which reshaped his approach to business and empathy.
• The hosts discuss the Pinnacle Society, which aims to elevate high-performing salespeople in the automotive sector.
• The conversation underscores the necessity of maintaining a positive mindset amidst challenges and competition.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Piazza Honda
• Delco group
• Pinnacle Society
• Mont Blanc
• Ali Rita
• Eagles

This podcast episode features an enlightening dialogue between Adam Marburger and Chris Martinez, centering on the theme of human resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in building personal and professional success. The discussion underscores the significance of authentic human connections and the vital inner work that precedes external achievements. Chris expounds upon his extensive experiences within the automotive industry, illustrating his journey from humble beginnings to a position of influential leadership and innovation. He shares valuable insights into the transformative role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in enhancing operational efficiency and driving sales growth for car dealerships. Ultimately, this episode serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of business. The podcast episode features a profound conversation between Adam Marburger and Chris Martinez, who delves into the realm of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the transformative power of personal experiences in shaping professional journeys. Martinez, a seasoned veteran in the automotive industry, shares insights from his extensive career, reflecting on the serendipitous circumstances that led him to discover the car business. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others and acknowledges the influence of those who have paved the way for his success, epitomizing the adage, 'standing on the shoulders of giants.' Throughout the discussion, Martinez articulates his belief that entrepreneurship resembles a perpetual sport, where the pursuit of excellence drives individuals to continually strive for more, irrespective of past accomplishments. This episode serves as a testament to the notion that true success is often rooted in the experiences, lessons, and growth that accompany entrepreneurial endeavors.

Takeaways:

• In our discourse, we emphasize the significance of authentic human connections in entrepreneurship, transcending mere transactional interactions.
• The podcast underlines the notion that true success is predicated on a foundation of internal growth and resilience, fostering both personal and professional development.
• Our guest Chris Martinez elucidates how his extensive experience in the automotive industry has shaped his approach to business innovation and strategy.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace technology, particularly artificial intelligence, as a catalyst for operational efficiency and enhanced decision-making in their ventures.
• The conversation illustrates the transformative impact of AI in streamlining processes, facilitating rapid implementation, and ultimately driving sales growth for car dealerships.
• We assert that the evolution of technology necessitates an adaptive mindset among entrepreneurs, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and agility in business.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• CarMax
• Toyota
• Facebook
• Grant Cardone
• Pure Cars
• Amazon Autos
• Carvana

In this episode, we delve into the intricate journey of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the salient truth that it often takes longer and costs more than initially anticipated. We engage in a profound dialogue with Adam McChesney, a seasoned entrepreneur who candidly shares his evolution from the medical device sales industry to establishing multiple successful ventures. His narrative underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace failures as stepping stones to success. Throughout our conversation, we explore the critical role of personal branding and the necessity of investing in oneself through coaches and mentors, which McChesney attributes to his remarkable growth and achievements. This episode ultimately serves as an invaluable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering insights into the realities of building a business while navigating the complexities of personal and professional growth. The discussion between Adam Marburger and Adam McChesney delves deeply into the nuances of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the personal and professional growth that arises from overcoming challenges. McChesney, a seasoned entrepreneur, reflects on his journey from selling items on eBay in his youth to managing a successful digital marketing agency and branching into various business sectors. The conversation touches on critical themes such as the importance of personal branding, resilience in the face of adversity, and the necessity of trusting one's instincts in decision-making. McChesney articulates the profound lessons learned from past experiences, particularly during tumultuous times, highlighting the significance of mentorship, accountability, and continuous learning. This episode serves as an inspiring testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging listeners to embrace their journeys, learn from failures, and seek support from those who have navigated similar paths.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of authenticity and real conversations in building meaningful connections.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their journeys of personal development and self-improvement through shared stories.
• The speakers reflect on the necessity of failing quickly and learning from those failures to achieve success in entrepreneurship.
• A strong personal brand is portrayed as a critical asset for business growth and resilience in challenging times.
• The discussion highlights the value of mentorship and coaching from experienced individuals to navigate the complexities of business.
• Listeners are reminded that the entrepreneurial journey often requires more time and financial resources than initially anticipated.

In this engaging episode, we delve into the life and insights of Steve McKinney, a prominent figure in the fitness industry with over three decades of experience. The conversation emphasizes the profound connection between physical health and one's inner journey, underscoring the notion that personal development must precede external achievements. We explore Steve's innovative 3W approach to fitness, which advocates for a harmonious balance of weight training, walking, and dietary mindfulness, particularly as one ages. As we navigate through Steve's remarkable journey, we uncover his motivations, the challenges he has overcome, and the invaluable lessons he imparts to those seeking to enhance their well-being. This episode serves as an inspiration for individuals at any stage of their health and fitness journey, encouraging a holistic perspective that integrates body, mind, and spirit. The discourse presented in this episode intricately weaves the narratives of personal transformation and professional dedication, centering around the remarkable journey of Steve McKinney, an esteemed figure in the fitness industry. With over three decades of experience, McKinney's insights reveal not only his expertise in physical training but also his profound understanding of the psychological and emotional underpinnings that drive individuals towards health and wellness. The episode dives deeply into the philosophy espoused in McKinney's seminal work, 'The Gospel of Fitness', which advocates for the empowerment of individuals to reclaim their health and vitality as they age. Through the lens of his personal experiences, listeners are invited to explore the intersection of physical strength and mental resilience, emphasizing that true fitness transcends mere physicality and taps into the core of one's being. A salient theme of the episode is the acknowledgment of the adversities that shape our journeys. McKinney candidly recounts pivotal moments of trauma and loss that have indelibly marked his life, illustrating how these challenges have forged his character and propelled him on a path toward helping others. The narrative is punctuated by his reflection on the importance of community and support in the pursuit of health, underscoring that the journey toward fitness is not solely an individual endeavor but a collective one. By sharing his struggles and triumphs, McKinney embodies the essence of resilience, inspiring listeners to confront their own challenges with courage and tenacity. The dialogue also delves into McKinney's innovative 3W approach to fitness, which encapsulates the principles of weight training, walking, and dietary mindfulness. This holistic method is not merely a regimen but a philosophy that encourages individuals to embrace a sustainable lifestyle that promotes longevity and well-being. As the conversation unfolds, listeners gain valuable insights into practical strategies for integrating fitness into their daily routines, dispelling myths surrounding exercise and aging, and fostering a mindset that prioritizes health over mere aesthetics. McKinney’s commitment to authenticity and integrity in fitness serves as a beacon for those seeking to navigate the often convoluted landscape of health and wellness, making this episode a compelling exploration of what it truly means to build a life that values both physical strength and spiritual growth.

Takeaways:

• The conversation emphasizes the significance of building inner strength before achieving external success, underscoring the duality of personal growth and tangible accomplishments.
• Steve McKinney shares his extensive experience within the fitness industry, highlighting the transformative power of strength training on health and longevity.
• The podcast discusses the importance of a balanced approach to fitness, advocating for a regimen that includes weight training, walking, and mindful dietary choices.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace a lifestyle of gratitude and positivity, framing one's daily mindset as a vital component of overall well-being and success.
• The dialogue reveals how personal tragedies can catalyze profound life changes, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
• Steve's unique training methodology, which focuses on high-intensity, low-frequency workouts, challenges conventional fitness norms and promotes sustainable health practices.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Max Strength Fitness
• QuickBooks
• Kmart
• Alcatraz Weights
• Gospel of Fitness
• Gracie