In Search Of Excellence

Brock Pierce, began his career as a child actor, notably appearing in Disney's "The Mighty Ducks" series and "First Kid." Transitioning from entertainment to entrepreneurship, he co-founded the Digital Entertainment Network (DEN) in the late 1990s, aiming to deliver original episodic content online. Pierce later became a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency industry, co-founding Tether in 2014, a leading stablecoin, and serving as Director of the Bitcoin Foundation. In 2020, he ran as an independent candidate in the U.S. presidential election. His diverse experiences offer valuable insights into the intersections of technology, finance, and media.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Amanza Smith is an accomplished entertainer, real estate agent, and advocate who has overcome immense personal challenges. Born to a mixed-race family in small-town Indiana, Amanza faced racism and abuse from a young age. Despite these adversities, she pursued her dreams, becoming a cheerleader, model, and reality TV star. Amanza's big break came on the hit show "Deal or No Deal," which led to her joining the prestigious Oppenheim Group and starring on "Selling Sunset." Beyond her professional success, Amanza's most inspiring role is that of a single mother. After her ex-husband's sudden disappearance, she fought tirelessly to provide for her children, relying on government assistance at times. Today, Amanza uses her platform to advocate for victims of abuse, encouraging others to seek help and support. Her ultimate goal is to inspire change through a design-focused TV show and a line of home goods. Amanza's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

2:18 - Introduction to Amanda Smith's Diverse Career  

12:01 - Amanza's Unconventional Family Background

18:55 - Experiencing Racism and Physical Abuse as a Child 

30:35 - Coping Mechanisms: Gymnastics and Humor

36:00 - Transition to Modeling and Acting

42:27 - Challenges in Marriage and Financial Struggles 

48:15 - Joining the Oppenheimer Group and Selling Sunset

54:38 - Ralph Brown's Disappearance and Legal Battles

1:00:52 - Advice for Victims of Abuse: Seeking Help and Therapy

1:06:35 - Amanza's Goal: Hosting Her Own Design-Focused TV Show

1:12:15 - Developing a Line of Home Goods and Furniture Products

1:18:35 - Considering Adopting an Older Child in the Future

1:24:23 - Amanza's Perspective on Dating in Los Angeles

1:30:30 - Dealing with Haters and Social Media Criticism

1:36:06 - Amanza's Responsibility as a Successful Black Woman

1:42:29 - The Biggest Lesson Amanza Has Learned in Life

1:48:13 - Amanza's Number One Personal and Professional Goals

1:54:32 - Amanza's Biggest Regret and the Craziest Thing in Her Career

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Dave Asprey, known as the "Father of Biohacking," is an influential entrepreneur, author, and founder of Bulletproof 360. He pioneered the Bulletproof Coffee trend and has played a crucial role in promoting the biohacking movement, which focuses on optimizing human performance and health. Starting his career in tech, Dave shifted focus to explore how nutritional and environmental changes could enhance personal well-being. In this episode, he discusses his journey from tech enthusiast to wellness advocate, sharing practical biohacking tips and his transformative health experiences. Dave's story is not just about personal success; it's about empowering others to achieve better health and resilience through groundbreaking self-optimization techniques.

Timestamps:

02:18 - Insights into monthly health meetings and their benefits.

05:13 - Personal reflections on overcoming recurrent health issues.

06:58 - Techniques to ferment coffee to enhance its health properties.

18:41 - Introduction to the concept of 'bicep brief' in fitness routines.

28:46 - Discussing the challenges and lessons from working multiple jobs.

37:52 - Examination of sexual health practices and their implications.

39:26 - Dave Asprey shares critical conclusions on health optimizations.

40:24 - The effects of dietary changes on hormonal levels.

47:17 - Recommendations for nutritional supplements to aid muscle growth.

47:57 - Lifestyle tips for maintaining fitness through cycling.

51:00 - Benefits of specialized glasses for vision and health.

51:15 - Dave Asprey discusses the importance of accessible health tools.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Dave Asprey, known as the "Father of Biohacking," is an influential entrepreneur, author, and founder of Bulletproof 360. He pioneered the Bulletproof Coffee trend and has played a crucial role in promoting the biohacking movement, which focuses on optimizing human performance and health. Starting his career in tech, Dave shifted focus to explore how nutritional and environmental changes could enhance personal well-being. In this episode, he discusses his journey from tech enthusiast to wellness advocate, sharing practical biohacking tips and his transformative health experiences. Dave's story is not just about personal success; it's about empowering others to achieve better health and resilience through groundbreaking self-optimization techniques.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to rejection therapy and its psychological impact by Dave Asprey.

04:00 - Early career insights and the initial engagement with technology and internet culture.

08:00 - The emotional challenges of entrepreneurship and dealing with rejection.

11:59 - The power of asking for help and the community's response to personal and professional needs.

15:58 - Discussion on the impact of receiving negative responses and overcoming obstacles.

19:59 - Reflections on past experiences and the personal stories that shape one’s career path.

24:01 - Personal anecdotes about overcoming cognitive challenges and their impact on career decisions.

28:00 - Strategic business decisions and the inception of innovative solutions in the tech industry.

32:01 - Comparing career advancements and the implications of making significant changes.

36:00 - The entrepreneur’s mindset and the necessity of innovation and resilience.

40:02 - Reflections on the timing of public offerings and their impact on business success.

44:05 - Client relations and the dynamics of working with large corporations like Akamai.

48:06 - The risks and rewards of ambitious business strategies and their execution.

52:06 - Financial insights and the real impacts of business decisions on personal wealth.

56:07 - Transition back to personal topics and broader life lessons shared by  Randall.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Gary Vaynerchuk, commonly known as Gary Vee, is an influential entrepreneur, speaker, and internet personality, best known for his expertise in digital marketing and social media. Starting his career in his family's wine business, Gary's innovative approach to e-commerce and content creation catapulted the business from a local enterprise to a national leader in wine retail. He later founded VaynerMedia, a leading digital agency that services Fortune 500 clients across the globe. In this episode, Gary shares his unfiltered insights on the dynamics of building and scaling businesses, the evolution of consumer engagement, and the relentless pursuit of hustle. He opens up about his journey from a Belarusian immigrant to a global business mogul, reflecting on the impact of his heritage on his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. With his characteristic candor and deep passion for empowering others, Gary offers listeners not only a glimpse into the competitive world of digital marketing but also imparts profound lessons on perseverance, vision, and personal branding.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Gary Vee discusses the early influence of social media on his content creation, specifically Twitter.

03:02 - A discussion on strategic moves in poker and their parallels to business decisions.

06:02 - Gary shares his experience of working in his father's store during college and the lessons learned.

09:02 - The conversation covers the significant impact of actions in leadership and business.

12:02 - Gary talks about the inception of his agency and his disbelief at the scale of corporate engagement in the late 2000s.

15:05 - Reflections on personal moments, including a honeymoon in Hawaii and the settings that influenced his life.

18:05 - A hypothetical scenario is discussed where a major social platform is forced to sell, reflecting on the potential impacts.

21:06 - Discussion of missed opportunities and the financial implications of quick decisions in business.

24:07 - Gary Vee emphasizes the power of word-of-mouth in marketing and personal convictions.

27:09 - Analysis of the cost-effectiveness of Super Bowl advertising and its comparison to other marketing platforms.

30:10 - Advice for professionals feeling dissatisfied with their job, stressing the importance of commitment and effort.

33:10 - Gary discusses the importance of setting goals and the effectiveness of writing them down.

36:12 - A personal reflection on family dynamics and the distribution of affection among siblings.

39:15 - Gary shares his views on retirement, emphasizing his desire to never stop working.

42:18 - Thoughts on legacy and giving back, including advice Gary would offer to his younger self.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Gary Vaynerchuk, commonly known as Gary Vee, is an influential entrepreneur, speaker, and internet personality, best known for his expertise in digital marketing and social media. Starting his career in his family's wine business, Gary's innovative approach to e-commerce and content creation catapulted the business from a local enterprise to a national leader in wine retail. He later founded VaynerMedia, a leading digital agency that services Fortune 500 clients across the globe. In this episode, Gary shares his unfiltered insights on the dynamics of building and scaling businesses, the evolution of consumer engagement, and the relentless pursuit of hustle. He opens up about his journey from a Belarusian immigrant to a global business mogul, reflecting on the impact of his heritage on his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. With his characteristic candor and deep passion for empowering others, Gary offers listeners not only a glimpse into the competitive world of digital marketing but also imparts profound lessons on perseverance, vision, and personal branding.

Timestamps:

02:41 - Introduction

05:21 - Gary Vee narrates the immigration challenges faced by his family leaving the Soviet Union and adjusting to life in America.

08:02 - Gary Vee talks about his father's entrepreneurial journey from managing a store to owning it and the lessons learned from observing his work ethic.

10:41 - Randall Kaplan praises the inherent strength and resilience of influential women in challenging environments.

13:20 - Randall Kaplan shares an emotional personal story, underscoring the importance of strong family values.

16:04 - Gary Vee elaborates on the supportive dynamics within his extended family and the emotional bonds that shaped his upbringing.

18:41 - Gary Vee emphasizes the crucial life skill of dealing with adversity and finding comfort in uncomfortable situations.

21:20 - Gary Vee reminisces about his childhood summers, filled with familial connections and simple joys.

24:03 - Randall Kaplan reflects on his childhood outdoor activities, noting the less supervised yet richly interactive play of his youth.

26:40 - Randall Kaplan discusses overcoming personal challenges and the motivation behind his drive to succeed despite obstacles.

29:23 - Gary Vee debates the nature of entrepreneurial success, questioning if innate talent is a necessary component and sharing his personal experiences with early business ventures.

32:03 - Gary Vee discusses his youthful business initiatives, including running a lemonade stand and the creative ways he expanded it.

34:44 - Gary Vee recalls his childhood efforts to earn money through various small ventures, from selling flowers picked from neighbors’ gardens to singing carols.

37:22 - Gary Vee shares his philosophy on the value of hard work over formal education, reflecting on his personal and family experiences.

40:00 - Gary Vee looks back on a defining weekend in his youth that solidified his passion for business and innovation.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Sean Mike Kelly is a serial entrepreneur and an influential advocate in the Web 3.0 space. From launching Jersey Champs during his freshman year of college to navigating the volatile world of cryptocurrency investments, Sean’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by both spectacular successes and educational setbacks. In this enlightening episode of “In Search of Excellence,” hosted by Randall Kaplan, Sean delves into his unique experiences growing up with immigrant parents, his early business ventures, and the profound lessons he learned about the psychological impact of financial highs and lows. He also shares insights into the critical roles that adaptability, mentorship, and a positive mindset have played in his career. Engaging and deeply personal, this episode offers valuable perspectives on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

0:00 - Introduction to Sean Mike Kelly and his journey from college entrepreneur to multimillionaire.

2:14 - Early financial lessons and the psychological impact of perceived wealth.

5:20 - Sean’s multicultural background and how his parents’ immigrant stories shaped his perspective on money and success.

9:37 - Starting Jersey Champs and the pivot to selling masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

13:48 - Lessons learned from early business ventures and coping with financial uncertainties.

18:03 - The role of influencers and strategic marketing in the growth of his businesses.

22:25 - Sean discusses the importance of adapting business strategies to market changes.

26:39 - Reflections on financial freedom and the volatile world of cryptocurrency investing.

30:52 - The significance of networking and mentorship in Sean’s career development.

35:10 - Insights into managing personal and professional life, and the ongoing learning process.

39:55 - How Sean’s family values and work ethic have influenced his business practices.

44:30 - Sean talks about overcoming introversion and the impact of positive thinking.

48:45 - Final thoughts on entrepreneurship, preparation, and the importance of mindset in achieving success.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer is an accomplished actress and advocate, widely recognized for her role as Alison DiLaurentis in the hit TV series Pretty Little Liars. Throughout her career, Sasha has captivated audiences with her compelling performances and has become a powerful voice in promoting body positivity and mental health awareness. In this episode, Sasha delves into the complexities of acting, sharing candid stories from her time on set, the challenges of handling intimate scenes, and how she navigates the pressures of Hollywood. She also opens up about her personal journey of self-acceptance and the importance of advocating for one's own mental and physical well-being. With authenticity and insight, Sasha gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry, while offering valuable lessons on resilience and growth.

Timestamps:

• 0:39 - Randall discusses the financial illusions of Hollywood fame and the real take-home pay.
• 1:44 - Sasha debunks common myths about the glamorous lives of actors.
• 15:22 - The role of public criticism in personal and professional development within the acting world.
• 18:14 - Randall shares his insights on sustaining a long-term career in the ever-evolving film industry.
• 25:23 - Sasha reflects on pivotal experiences on film sets that shaped her approach to acting.
• 28:18 - Challenges faced by newcomers trying to break into the acting scene.
• 31:17 - Behind-the-scenes look at what really happens during actor auditions with Sasha.
• 34:24 - Unseen efforts and the grind behind successful acting careers.
• 40:05 - How Sasha manages her family life amidst her demanding acting schedule.
• 45:38 - Strategic career moves and advice from Randall on navigating Hollywood’s competitive landscape.
• 45:42 - Sasha discusses how she copes with the frequent rejections from auditions.
• 1:02:12 - Importance of perseverance in the face of industry barriers, shared by Sasha.
• 1:06:10 - Sasha narrates personal stories from her career that highlight significant learning moments.
• 1:09:40 - Sasha reflects on a pivotal career-defining moment and its lasting impact.
• 1:10:11 - Closing thoughts from Sasha on pursuing passion and finding fulfillment in acting.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer is an accomplished actress and advocate, widely recognized for her role as Alison DiLaurentis in the hit TV series Pretty Little Liars. Throughout her career, Sasha has captivated audiences with her compelling performances and has become a powerful voice in promoting body positivity and mental health awareness. In this episode, Sasha delves into the complexities of acting, sharing candid stories from her time on set, the challenges of handling intimate scenes, and how she navigates the pressures of Hollywood. She also opens up about her personal journey of self-acceptance and the importance of advocating for one's own mental and physical well-being. With authenticity and insight, Sasha gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry, while offering valuable lessons on resilience and growth.

0:00 - Introduction.

3:14 - Discussion on balancing personal sacrifices with following dreams.

6:41 - Considerations in casting young actors for age-appropriate roles.

10:06 - Randall Kaplan shares thoughts on handling professional transitions.

13:22 - Challenges of accessing opportunities in the acting industry.

16:45 - Discussion on time management challenges in professional settings.

19:49 - Addressing the sensitivity required in diverse professional environments.

23:11 - Sasha recalls uncertain moments from her acting career.

26:40 - Debates on standards of acceptability in professional conduct.

30:09 - Strategies for managing early career responsibilities.

33:50 - The stress of performing well under observation.

37:31 - Insights into the less glamorous aspects of the entertainment industry.

41:13 - Discussion on the emotional demands of acting.

44:54 - Emotional highs and lows experienced within the industry.

48:14 - Sasha shares a story about a significant investment opportunity.

51:41 - Recounting an encounter where Sasha was recognized unexpectedly.

55:06 - Reflections on working in a challenging environment.

58:37 - The benefits of encountering diverse perspectives in acting.

1:02:06 - The influence of family knowledge on navigating the industry.

1:06:05 - The importance of trust and communication in professional settings.

1:09:37 - Emphasizing the foundational role of trust in collaborative work.

1:13:24 - Brief interaction emphasizing interpersonal relationships.

1:17:03 - Discussing the difficulty of receiving criticism.

1:20:49 - The pitfalls of seeking fame as the primary career motivation.

1:24:39 - Closing thoughts on pursuing passion regardless of success.

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Sean Payton is a highly respected NFL coach, celebrated for his strategic brilliance and leadership on the football field. Known for his transformative tenure as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Payton led the team to its first and only Super Bowl victory in 2010, solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. With a career marked by innovative offensive strategies and an ability to develop winning teams, Payton has been a driving force behind the Saints’ rise to prominence in the league. Beyond his coaching accolades, Payton is admired for his resilience and dedication, traits that have guided him through both professional triumphs and challenges. Now heading into his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, Payton’s commitment to excellence and his impact on the game continue to inspire players, fans, and aspiring coaches alike.

1:57 - Initial Insights and Offers
3:53 - Transition and Family Adjustments
5:50 - Navigating Team Changes
7:48 - Scouting and Recruitment Tactics
9:44 - Team Relocation and Challenges
11:40 - The Importance of Victory
13:37 - Daily Routines and Success
15:36 - Leadership and Influence
17:28 - High-Scoring Strategies
19:28 - Road to the Championship
21:24 - Reflecting on Past Games
23:24 - Quarterback Strategies
25:19 - Preparation and Game Planning
27:15 - Career Highlights and Enjoying Success
29:13 - Reflections and Looking Ahead

Sponsors:
Sandee | Bliss: Beaches

Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn