Keep Hustling

In this episode, Aaron Gordon speaks with guest David Meltzer, a prominent figure who delves into the intricate balance between personal drive and well-being. David emphasizes that hustling isn't merely about relentless work but enjoying the persistent pursuit of personal potential.

David Meltzer introduces the concept of aligning hustle with core values such as gratitude, forgiveness, accountability, and inspiration. He outlines a structured approach combining values, daily practice, and effective execution to sustain hustle without succumbing to burnout. One major takeaway is Meltzer's focus on understanding and appreciating time—acknowledging the importance of both past experiences and future aspirations while optimally utilizing the present.

The conversation also highlights the critical role of personal health and relationships in sustaining long-term hustle. Meltzer shares personal anecdotes, underscoring the power of minimal yet meaningful interactions in maintaining strong family connections.

To conclude, Meltzer generously offers listeners a free signed book, encouraging them to spread positivity and engage in good deeds. His parting words, "Be kind to your future self and do good deeds," encapsulate the spirit of this inspiring episode, urging listeners to hustle responsibly while making impactful life choices.

Get To Know David Meltzer

David Meltzer is a legendary sports executive and formerly served as CEO of the renowned

Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment agency, which was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire.He is one of the world's top Entrepreneurs, Investors and Business coaches. David has been recognized by Variety Magazine as their Sports Humanitarian of the Year and awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

David is the Executive Producer of the Apple TV series 2 Minute Drill and Office Hours. He is also the executive producer of Entrepreneur's #1 digital business show, Elevator Pitch. David is featured in many books, movies, and TV shows such as World's Greatest Motivators, Think and Grow Rich and Beyond the Secret featured on Netflix. His life's mission is to empower OVER 1 BILLION people to be happy! This simple yet powerful mission has led him on an incredible journey to provide one thing… VALUE. In all his content, and communication that's exactly what you'll receive. Website Instagram Twittter/X Facebook LinkedIn YouTube

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Reexamine Hustle: Understand that hustling doesn't mean burning out. It's about enjoying the consistent, persistent pursuit of your own potential. Learn to define what hustle means for you and find joy in the journey!

2. Time Management Mastery: Become a student of time. David teaches us the importance of managing our days effectively by understanding the infinite past and future while maximizing our daily 24-hour cycles. This approach helps avoid burnout and promotes sustainable success.

3. Invest in Relationships and Self-Care: Allocate daily intentional time for your health and relationships. These minimal yet powerful investments in family and personal well-being create a foundation that supports your hustle and enriches your life.

Show Overview: 00:36 - David Meltzer on Redefining Hustle

01:11 - Embracing Values in Hustling

02:13 - Daily Practices for Success

03:05 - Overcoming Detours in the Hustle

04:40 - Time Management for Effective Hustling

06:35 - The Role of Self-Image in Achieving Goals

08:09 - Importance of Non-negotiables in Daily Life

10:18 - Loving What You Do and Its Secrets

14:16 - Impactful Parenting Tips from David

In this episode, Aaron Gordon and guest Samantha Lacher dive into the intricacies of integrating acquired businesses and establishing new departments within their organization. They highlight the expansion of their marketing and PR work, the role of mentorship, and cultural fit in hiring. Samantha shares a personal anecdote about overcoming a missed internship opportunity with her now partner's help, underscoring the importance of persistence. Samantha discusses her experiences post-acquisition by Finn Partners, emphasizing her remarkable work ethic and loyalty, which persisted even after structural changes. They also touch on the need to reassess work-life balance amid remote work's evolving landscape and share insights on dealing with work-related stress. Samantha and Aaron exchange thoughts on the illusion of overnight success, advocating for continuous hustle and the value of learning from failure. The conversation includes stories illustrating the support for entrepreneurial spirit within family businesses and career growth moments. Finally, they reflect on loyalty and dedication, with a nod to Samantha's 17-year journey at the same firm, revealing the significance of commitment in a transient professional world.

Get To Know Samantha Lacher

Samantha Lacher, Partner, FINN Partners

Samantha specializes in creating campaigns and developing brand positioning that markets to niche audiences. Her ability to spot trends, capitalize on cultural moments and develop storylines in traditional, digital and social media outlets has made a positive impact on destinations, global hotel companies, hospitality brands, restaurants, nonprofits, and more.

Sam has marketed to outdoor enthusiasts, wellness gurus, environmentalists, city-goers, foodies, beauty aficionados, and more across generations. She excels at conceptualizing executive positioning programs that align with business objectives and using thought leadership to amplify special initiatives. More than a decade of media relationships drives feature coverage across industries, and an eye on the evolving media landscape has led to success with influencer campaigns, from negotiating agreements to creating content. From media relations to influencer programs to program development and partnership creation, Sam has directed PR strategy for clients including Travel Alberta, St. Kitts Tourism Authority, Jamaica Tourist Board, Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, Westin Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Aspen, SeriousFun Children's Network, No Kid Hungry, Back on My Feet; and more. She started her career at MFA (Missy Farren & Associates), and joined FINN 5 years ago.

Sam loves the beach, hiking, and DIY home improvement projects

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Embracing Corporate Changes: Navigating a company acquisition can be daunting, but Samantha's experience teaches that loyalty and a positive outlook toward change can lead to unforeseen opportunities. The integration of businesses and adaptation while maintaining the core team spirit exemplifies the importance of staying flexible and open-minded during corporate transitions.

2. Importance of Mentors and Culture Fit: Securing a fitting role isn't solely about the skills on your resume. Samantha's journey highlights how personal connections, like her experience with Missy, and aligning with a company's culture can pave pathways to success. Seek mentors and environments that resonate with your values and where your contributions will be appreciated beyond your immediate skill set.

3. Work-Life Balance and Healthy Boundaries: Even in the hustle culture, knowing when to power down is vital. Samantha's reflection on her self-imposed pressure to overwork is a powerful reminder to set and respect boundaries between professional and personal time. The shift to remote work further underlines the need to establish clear lines to ensure a balanced lifestyle while maintaining productivity.

Show Overview: 02:00 Samatha's work ethic and loyalty to company.

03:26 Devoted to MFA and extended work family.

07:14 Personal introduction with Missy, unsuccessful internship.

12:32 Culture of finding the next best thing.

13:46 People leaving and returning to companies surprises.

18:13 Increased awareness of work-life balance and communication.

22:45 Entrepreneurial passion faces pressure to succeed.

25:42 Hiring with confidence, valuing family and loyalty.

28:20 Admiration for someone's willingness to embrace failure.

In this episode, Aaron Gordon talks with Taylor Garcia about his unwavering commitment to music and the personal transformations that have culminated in his current fulfilling life of family and a family business. Dedication drove Taylor to spend countless hours honing his drumming in his garage, aspiring to a professional music career—a dream that won his parents' backing as they recognized his true passion. A devoted husband, Taylor enjoyed the full support of his wife, a fundamental pillar despite her vastly different family background.

Diving deeper, Aaron shares his resonating experiences with drumming, underscoring the essence of hard work. Taylor, who is now the president of, Jackson & Jackson Insurance, has found harmony in a well-rounded life with his family. His music is now thriving within a church setting. His role as a father is enriched as he shares his musical journey with his children in this wholesome environment.

Emphasizing authenticity, Taylor and Aaron discuss the newfound success and genuine connections found in embracing one's true self, personally and professionally. The discussion delves into Taylor's initial music aspirations, his transition to stability, and the balance he has achieved today. By recounting their fathers' influences and the crucial lessons learned, they affirm the power of hustle and authenticity. Enjoy the show!

Get To Know Taylor Garcia Taylor Garcia, President at Jackson & Jackson Insurance, is a professional drummer turned insurance risk management expert who is revolutionizing the industry with his innovative approach. After touring the world as a drummer, he took on the challenge of reshaping Jackson & Jackson Insurance, a family business. With a deep-seated passion for storytelling and content creation, he has been able to make the insurance world accessible and exciting through digital content. Taylor's dedication to service and his entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire both in business and beyond. His journey from rhythmic beats to risk assessments is a testament to the unpredictability of life and the music that can be made in even the most unexpected places.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Embracing Authenticity for Success: Taylor's transformative journey towards embracing his authentic self showcases that personal success isn't just about the external hustle, it's about aligning your external actions with your true identity. By showing his tattoos and being genuine, Taylor not only found increased confidence but also success in sales. This teaches us that authenticity can be a powerful differentiator in the professional sphere, leading to deeper connections and long-term relationships with clients.

2. Nurturing Passion While Juggling Responsibilities: Taylor Garcia's commitment to music, despite the shift in his career and family responsibilities, affirms the value of keeping one's passions alive. Listeners can learn from Taylor's integration of music into his family life, showing that it's possible to find harmony between one's personal joys and other commitments. This is a poignant reminder of the need to keep the hustle alive in all aspects of life that bring fulfillment.

3. Leveraging Relationships for Career Pivots: The episode highlights the significance of navigating relationships in career transitions. Taylor's experience with his in-laws and the support he received from his wife illustrate the importance of having a network that can offer guidance and support. Listeners can take away the role that trusted relationships play in career shifts, whether that's venturing into a new industry, like Taylor did with the insurance agency, or rediscovering and pursuing an old passion. Trust, perseverance, and the willingness to be guided are key takeaways from Taylor's narrative for anyone looking to pivot or evolve career-wise.

Show Overview: 02:12 Musician turned non-traditional insurance agent reflects.

03:17 Taylor realized need to prioritize family over career.

08:24 Unique childhood, drums, music appreciation. Family history.

12:29 In-laws, support, inspiration, motivation, influential, relationship, hustle.

15:22 Parents shaped financial knowledge, supportive and generous.

17:53 Struggling to blend personal and professional identity.

19:44 Connect authentically to build lasting client relationships.

25:55 Overcoming challenges, becoming comfortable and authentic self.

26:33 Authenticity is crucial for personal and social connections.

32:41 Start doing, stop talking, Walt Disney quote.

33:19 Learning by doing, progressing, and embracing imperfection.

In this episode, Aaron Gordon and Zoli Honig explore Zoli's journey as a serial entrepreneur. From an early age, Zoli believed in working hard and hustling to achieve his goals, a mindset

that led him to self-teach IT skills and start his first business while in high school. Despite losing his savings from a frozen yogurt venture called, Zoli views the experience as educational, equating it to an MBA in real-world skills.

Zoli later co-founded Chalkable, balancing multiple jobs to fund his entrepreneurial dreams. His perseverance paid off as Chalkable caught the eye of a larger company, culminating in its acquisition and rebranding, providing Zoli with a validating and surreal experience.

The episode also features Zoli's current endeavors, including his book series Little Founders, inspired by his son's experiences, aimed at teaching children about entrepreneurship. Zoli's innovative approach extends to his electric car rental business that achieved unexpected media attention and led to a notable appearance on Shark Tank.

Throughout the discussion, both hosts emphasize the importance of believing in oneself, seizing opportunities, and not fearing non-conformity—themes central to the hustler's spirit. Enjoy the show!

Get To Know Zoli Honig

Zoli Honig is an entrepreneur with 3 startup exits (and a shark tank deal!) under his belt. His latest venture is Short Form Media - a viral social media agency helping executives grow their personal brands. Over the last year he's generated over 50M views for his clients. For a wonderful and inspiring read check out Zoli's childrens entrepreneur book Little Steve: and the Little Details (Little Founders)

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Turning Setbacks into Lessons: Zoli didn't let the loss from his first business, Berrylicious, deter him. Instead, he saw it as an education, proving that "failures" can be the richest sources of knowledge.

2. The Power of a Positive Mindset: Zoli and Aaron remind us that belief in oneself is crucial. Adopt the mindset of "why not me" and you could be the next to achieve extraordinary things.

3. Passion Over Norms: Inspired by personal experiences, Zoli's Little Founders book series teaches kids to follow their passion. Success isn't one-size-fits-all, and not everyone needs to excel in sports or traditional roles to make a significant impact.

Show Overview: 03:23 Questioning origins of ambition, grateful for upbringing.

05:00 Discussing success and failure in business ventures.

08:14 Success comes from learning and adapting.

12:01 Taking risks, pursuing passion with determination.

12:30 SaaS opportunity, hustle, foundational source, great employees

16:43 Software company acquired, modernized, and deployed statewide.

19:01 Watch the impactful video and learn from it.

22:20 Obscure interview led to Shark Tank success.

26:19 Follow passion, not others' expectations. Believe. Succeed.

28:59 Embracing change, Steve Jobs quote, shaping future.

In this episode, Aaron Gordon delves into the the talent, sustained drive, and dedication of professional success with Senior ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Adam, one of the top sports reporters in the country and known as an archetype of the hustler in journalism, shares the intrinsic motivation that fuels his relentless work ethic. Likening his compulsion to an athlete's willpower to overcome physical challenges, Schefter attributes his drive to professional pride and a competitive spirit.

This episode explores the critical importance of living your job beyond the constraints of conventional work hours, highlighting the necessity of passion and dedication in achieving excellence. Schefter recounts pivotal moments across his career, from his early years contending with rejection and setbacks to significant decisions that propelled him to his current role at ESPN and his deep connection with the NFL.

Throughout the conversation, Schefter's perspective on work-life balance is emphasized, emphasizing the complex interplay between family and career. This is illustrated by his commitment to attend a concert with his daughter despite his demanding schedule.

The episode also touches on philanthropy. Schefter expresses that giving back and aiding others' success is not only a duty but deeply rewarding. Lastly, he leaves listeners with a poignant message from the poem "The Station," underscoring the notion that life's journey is the destination, urging us to savor all moments along the path. Enjoy the show!

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Professional Pride and Passion: Adam sheds light on the inner spark that drives individuals to excel a mixture of professional pride, caring, and a competitive drive that's hard to describe but incredibly potent.

2. Living the Job: In this era, you can't just work 9 to 5. Adam dives into how he embodies his role, showcasing that commitment and a 'no days off' mindset are crucial for those who aim high in their careers.

3. Evolution of Career Paths: Adam shares his pivotal moments and the evolution from a newspaper journalist to an ESPN icon, emphasizing the importance of adapting and trusting your gut when career-defining opportunities arise.

Get To Know Adam Schefter

Adam Schefter is the Senior NFL Insider at ESPN. He joined ESPN as an NFL Insider in August 2009 and now appears on a variety of programs, including NFL Live, Sunday NFL Countdown, Monday Night Countdown, SportsCenter and more throughout the year. He also hosts his own ESPN Audio podcast, "The Adam Schefter Podcast", and regularly contributes to other ESPN platforms, such as ESPN.com and ESPN Radio.

One of the top sports reporters in the country, Schefter has covered the NFL since 1990, and his social media influence is unmatched in the industry. Schefter's reporting is consumed by millions of NFL fans on his and ESPN's social media channels, where his connections, tenacity and breaking news prowess adds to the growth and reach of the ESPN brand. Currently, Schefter has over 13 million followers, including almost 10.5 million on Twitter, nearly 1.8 million on Instagram, and another one million plus on Facebook.

Due to the demands of his job, Schefter always has two phones nearby and now is considered the first commentator in sports broadcasting — news or any other genre — to popularize using his device while on television during show appearances to break stories in real-time.

Schefter's reporting expands well beyond breaking news. He has been a sideline reporter for ESPN's NFL wild-card games, as well as some NBA games, including the NBA playoffs. He has done other features for Countdown, including a personal story about his family's connection to the September 11, 2001 terror attacks that led to a book on the subject.

Schefter has earned numerous accolades for his work. Sports Illustrated's NFL site, The MMQB, named him the 2014 Media Person of the Year for breaking multiple significant stories during the NFL's free-agent period and off-season. In February 2014, Schefter was named "the most influential New Yorker on Twitter," according to data from social media company PeerIndex. In October 2010, Sports Illustrated included Schefter in its "Power 40+", a listing of the most influential people involved in the NFL. SI also ranked him and Senior NFL Insider Chris Mortensen at No. 13 on its list of the Most Powerful People in Sports Media in March 2013. Schefter was voted "Best Insider" three straight years in USA Today conducted fan surveys. Before joining ESPN, Schefter was a reporter/analyst for NFL Network from 2004-08, and a sportswriter for more than 15 years for the Denver Post and the Rocky Mountain News, where he covered the NFL and the Denver Broncos team that won back-to-back Super Bowls. He was the Colorado Sports Writer of the Year in 2002 and 2003, and frequently appeared on ESPN's Around the Horn and the Sports Reporters during his time with the Post.

A former president of the Pro Football Writers of America, Schefter also has authored five books. His most recent, The Man I Never Met: A Memoir — co-authored with Sports Illustrated writer Michael Rosenberg — is a powerful story of loss and hope, centered around his family and the memory of his wife Sharri's first husband, Joe Maio, who died in the September 11 terror attacks.

Schefter's other titles include Romo: My Life on the Edge Living Dreams and Slaying Dragons about former Broncos linebacker Bill Romanowski, which reached the New York Times bestseller list. Schefter also wrote books with former Broncos head coach and two-time Super Bowl champion Mike Shanahan and former Super Bowl MVP Terrell Davis. Schefter's other book, The Class of Football: Words of Hard-Earned Wisdom from Legends of the Gridiron, was released in August 2009. A native of Bellmore, N.Y., Schefter graduated from the University of Michigan in 1989 and later earned his master's degree at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism in 1990.

Schefter, who is involved in a variety of philanthropic work, is active with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), acting to raise funds and awareness for Diabetes, as his wife, S

harri, is a Type 1 diabetic. In 2023, Schefter was tabbed as a spokesman for the "1 Pledge" initiative to educate and encourage early screening for Type 1 diabetes.

Right around the New Year in 2022, Schefter spearheaded a campaign to help raise $1.2 million for Parker Dickerson, the son of the late ESPN reporter Jeff Dickerson, who lost his battle with colon cancer two years after his wife Caitlin died from complications of melanoma. In honor of his fund-raising efforts, Barrett Sports Media awarded Schefter with its Champion's Award, given each year to someone that has gone above and beyond to make a difference for others. In June 2023, Schefter was the recipient of the Dick Schaap Memorial Award for Media Excellence, which goes to the journalist who best exemplifies the principles and talents of Dick Schaap; the award was presented to Schefter by his ESPN colleague Jeremy Schaap, Dick Schaap's son. ESPN Bio X/Twitter Instagram

Show Overview: 02:12 Success requires consistent effort and dedication.

03:50 Dedication to job, always on call.

07:47 Career milestones: from sports reporter to NFL insider.

12:26 Moved to Denver, volunteered for local TV.

15:18 Motivational quotes, especially "The Station."

In this episode, Aaron Gordon talks with Jacob Rubinstein, a lawyer with a compelling personal and professional determination story. Jacob, who was formerly associated with organizations like JPMorgan and WeWork and is now the founder of his own law firm, opens up about the hurdles he's faced, including the loss of his first wife, a trying divorce, and the delicate balance of being a single father to three children.

Jacob delves into his initial reluctance to start his own business, explaining how encouragement from successful friends and a pivotal moment of introspective decision-making led him to specialize in matrimonial and intellectual property (IP) law. Despite the challenges, Rubinstein's passion for assisting clients in tech and advocating for the underdog in divorce cases drives him.

The episode intertwines Rubinstein's professional journey with anecdotes about advocating for the underprivileged, highlighting the importance of hustle and mindset in overcoming life's obstacles. The conversation underscores Rubinstein's belief in striking a balance between work and family and his reliance on a robust support network that helped him maintain stability for his children through tough times. Closing with Justin's favorite inspirational quote, this episode is a testament to the enduring power of positivity and resolve. Get To Know Jacob Rubinstein

Jacob Rubinstein is a skilled attorney who specializes in family law, commercial litigation, and intellectual property law. As the founder and managing partner at the Rubinstein Law Firm, PLLC, he provides valuable counsel to clients who are navigating the complexities of matrimonial law. Jacob is known for his hands-on approach and unwavering dedication to client advocacy. He uses his personal experience in family law courthouses to understand his clients better and provide effective representation tailored to their unique needs. Jacob is also involved in Jewish religious activities and widowed father of three daughters. Despite facing financial setbacks, he remains resilient and adapted to the challenges of change and financial realities. Jacob's professional journey is marked by his strong connection to his faith and family heritage, his dedication to providing effective legal representation to clients, and his commitment to innovation and forward-thinking strategies. Overall, Jacob Rubinstein is a compassionate yet aggressive advocate for those fighting for their children and finances, offering cutting-edge legal solutions and achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. LinkedIn Rubinstein Law Firm

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Embracing Life's Pivotal Moments: Jacob Rubinstein's late career shift underlines the importance of seizing life-changing decisions. He illustrates how pivotal moments can lead to personal fulfillment and professional success, even if it means stepping into the unknown. His willingness to pivot, particularly after personal tragedies, showcases the hustle needed to create opportunities out of hardships.

2. The Importance of a Support System: Jacob's journey highlights that success often involves leaning on others. His reliance on friends, family, and a wider community network during tough times emphasizes the value of having a strong support system. This serves as a reminder to nurture meaningful relationships that can help balance professional ambition with personal responsibilities.

3. Balancing Specializations with Passion: Diversifying expertise can be daunting, but Jacob's dual focus on matrimonial and intellectual property law demonstrates that passion can drive success in multiple domains. His excitement for tech and advocacy for families in divorce cases proves that with dedication, professionals can manage and excel in varied specialties that align with their interests and make a positive impact. Show Overview

02:34: Jacob's career journey from study to family business.

07:32 Jacob's friend advised him.

12:32 Rejected suitors, hesitant about job offer. heeded intuition.

15:49 Matrimonial attorney's story parallels underdog representation.

18:56 Struggle with stability, impacts career and family.

22:19 Concerns about children facing obstacles due to beliefs.

27:21 "Hustling is a mindset and lifestyle choice."

In this episode, Aaron Gordon hustles with Liv Coffman. They discuss Liv's upbringing in Southern Indiana, her early job experiences, which began at the age of 14, and how she was influenced by her family's work ethic and financial situation. Liv shares how she transitioned from working in service industries to pursuing a new career in the insurance industry, highlighting a pivotal moment during her initial licensing test. Despite doubts, she trusted her decision and embraced the start-up agency environment, tackling challenges and helping businesses grow. Liv's journey exemplifies the impact of trusting partnerships and the motivation to help people. The episode ends with Aaron recognizing Liv's inspirational journey and thanking her for her contributions. Throughout the interview, Liv's story highlights the power of resilience, passion for helping others, and the importance of valuable relationships in achieving success.

Liv Coffman's journey and career choices highlight the significance of hustling through diverse experiences, trusting in partnerships, and finding purpose in helping others, all of which can inspire listeners to drive their own success in various aspects of their lives and careers. Enjoy the show! Get To Know Liv Coffman

Liv Coffman is a dedicated advocate for homeowners and landlords, helping them navigate the complexities of homeownership. With a background in insurance, she's become a trusted resource for those seeking to protect their investments and properties. In her free time, she enjoys gym workouts, listening to podcasts, and reading books. Liv is also a spirited entrepreneur with a knack for innovative ideas, and her passion for bringing novel concepts to market is truly inspiring. Instagram Twitter Armadillo

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Embrace the Hustle: Liv's journey from a young age of 14, starting with a job at a bakery, showcases the importance of embracing the hustle and seeking opportunities to work and learn from various experiences.

2. Trust in Partnerships: Liv's decision to join a start-up insurance agency with a deep relationship with her best friend highlights the significance of trust in partnerships, showcasing the value of shared vision and commitment to the journey.

3. Helping Others: The pivotal moment of feeling a deep sense of purpose while taking her insurance licensing test emphasizes the power of helping others, and how it can serve as a guiding force in one's career and personal journey.

Show Overview: 01:00 Meet Liv Coffman.

05:54 Young entrepreneur gets early start serving doughnuts.

08:32 Dad's career influenced sales skills.

11:10 Finding happiness in helping and connecting with people.

15:08 Overcoming fear and finding inspiration through helping.

16:06 Skilled at connecting with people in industry.

20:00 Trusting relationships crucial for successful hustling.

22:32 Imagine helping many, words and people matter.

In this episode Ryan Hanley, shares his life experiences, philosophies, and beliefs. Despite facing poverty and a stint in a trailer park during his childhood, Hanley's hustle made him the person who he is today. The discussion revolves around the importance of parents setting an example through demonstrated behaviors and teaching their children discipline, emotional control, and resilience. Ryan also stresses the need for a reality-grounded upbringing and standing up against bullying. Hanley candidly shares his setbacks and the importance of bouncing back stronger. The theme of genuine connection permeates the interview, with Hanley quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson about bravery in meaningful conversations. Despite his confrontation-ready appearance, Hanley champions the power of love, the gravity of supportive relationships, and the importance of a good fight - personally and professionally as an advocate within the insurance industry. Enjoy the show! Get To Know Ryan Hanley Ryan Hanley is a dynamic executive, entrepreneur, speaker, author, and podcaster who has built a reputation for creating meaningful and sustainable growth in businesses and lives. As the founder and president of Finding Peak, Ryan is dedicated to inspiring business leaders from across the globe. Ryan's work in the insurance industry is consistently listed in the top 20 of thought leadership in the Insurtech (insurance technology) space. He is also the creator of The Ryan Hanley Show, a podcast that features interviews with industry leaders and influencers. Ryan's keynote presentations and customized workshops focus on implementing leadership, sales, and personal development initiatives. With a broad range of experience and expertise in both the macro and micro obstacles that businesses face daily. LinkedIn Instagram

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Lead by Example: Our parents' actions have more influence than their words, so we should incorporate this insight into our daily lives to be a positive example for others.

2. Balanced Strength: We should balance strength with emotional control, stand firm against adversities without aggression, and show leadership that is balanced between strength and sensitivity.

3. Prepared Mindset: Preparation is essential for overcoming adversity and achieving success. We can cultivate a prepared mindset through self-improvement practices like mindfulness and physical fitness.

Show Overview: 01:45 Ryan's tough upbringing in polluted, small, troubled town.

05:54 Overcoming adversity, seeking accountability, and moving forward.

10:21 Therapy has helped me through tough times.

15:32 Model positive behaviors for kids to emulate.

17:28 Understanding emotional control and teaching it to kids.

20:42 Standing up for others brings personal growth. 23:21 Early stage book about self-improvement and resilience.

27:05 Prepare mentally for life's trouble that is coming.

31:59 Preparedness is key for successful presentations.

34:19 Ryan helps insurance agents feel valued and respected.

36:29 Passionate about helping, despite facing criticism.

In this episode, host Aaron Gordon chats with Natan Edelsburg, who shares the profound influence his grandfather and mother, both PR mavens, had on his career trajectory. Edelsburg recounts pivotal moments, such as meeting his future CEO during his time at NYU, that set him on the path to joining a startup instead of opting for a traditional corporate job post-2008 recession. He draws parallels between his experiences and his grandfather's, learning the value of networking, compensation, and passion for work. Natan dives into his journey with his current 300-person company, discussing his evolution from being the first employee to helping it grow its global presence. They touch on the benefits and challenges of a remote-first workplace, enhanced by off-sites and team retreats while maintaining the resilience to adapt during the pandemic. Throughout the episode, Edelsburg emphasizes the importance of believing in the people you work with and the vision of the company. Sharing stories about growth and learning from failures, he highlights how equity and trust have cemented his commitment. Ending on a motivational Michael Jordan quote, the episode underlines the hustle necessary for success and the value of learning from one's missteps. Enjoy the show! Get To Know Natan Edelsburg Natan Edelsburg's family played a significant role in shaping his career path. His grandfather and mother both had impressive careers in public relations, which inspired and instilled in him a sense of dedication and passion for the industry. Natan's upbringing was not only about observing; it was also an education in understanding the power of effective communication.

Currently, Natan is the Chief Partnerships Officer at Muck Rack, a software platform that helps organizations find the right journalists to pitch, report on media coverage, and measure the value of their work. In his role, Natan leads and cultivates strategic industry partnerships while driving international expansion. Prior to this, he served as the Chief Revenue Officer at Muck Rack, leading the Sales and Customer Success teams. Natan joined Muck Rack in 2009 as the company's first employee and held several positions, including Chief Operating Officer. He has been recognized for his contributions to the industry, including being named one of PR News' Rising Stars and one of PRSA's 15 Under 35. Additionally, he is a member of the Board of Trustees for the PRSA Foundation and a frequent speaker on social media, PR, journalism, and the future of TV. Natan has moderated panels or presentations at various events, including SXSW, PRWeek, Social Media Week, Collision, Web Summit, Digital Hollywood, PRSA, and Cannes Lions.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Networking & Legacy Influence: The value of connections and learning from seasoned professionals is immeasurable. His grandfather's wisdom and network significantly shaped Natan Edelsburg's career trajectory. This demonstrates the power of leveraging family and mentor legacies to pave the way in your industry.

2. Embracing the Startup Journey: Opting for a startup over established corporate entities can be a defining career move. Natan's commitment to a startup during the economic downturn led to his impactful role in its growth. The episode highlights how early risks can lead to substantial rewards and a profound sense of fulfillment.

3. Remote Work Model Success: Nurturing company culture and employee relationships is possible beyond the conventional office setup. Natan's experience with a company practicing a remote-first policy shows that remote work can thrive with innovative approaches like networking budgets and company off-sites. Listeners can take away strategies for maintaining a positive work environment and employee engagement, even at a distance.

Show Overview: 03:00 Influential guidance led Natan to NYU.

06:37 Natan's Grandfather introductions led to valuable career connections.

10:22 Influential figure guided career, emphasized passion, peace.

14:32 Desire for recognition as startup cofounder discussed.

18:05 Long-term dedication to family business questioned.

19:07 Pride in PR family legacy defines career.

23:33 Question about remote work's impact on hustle.

27:06 Risks of slacking off in office environment.

32:15 Learn from failures, like Michael Jordan did.

In this episode, Aaron Gordon talks with Jeff Douglas, who shares his journey from struggling law graduate to becoming a partner at a law firm. Jeff opens up about his initial hardships in securing a job, facing doubts, and working for free to gain crucial experience. He emphasizes the influence of his wife and an unspecified pivotal moment on his career trajectory, alongside his father's impact as a labor arbitrator. The dialogue also touches upon employment law cases, the role of the Me Too movement in encouraging workplace issue disclosures, and the effects of remote work on sexual harassment cases. Jeff and Aaron discuss economic shifts driving career changes, the importance of salary transparency for retention, and the compensation challenges employers face. Mentorship emerges as a core theme, with Jeff attributing his success to mentor guidance and a crucial transition from mentee to peer relationship. The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and reflection on the profound influence of personal and professional support systems on career success.

Get To Know Jeff Douglas Jeff Douglas is a partner at Bochner PLLC and the head of their Labor and Employment Practice Group. With over a decade of experience, Jeff is an expert in labor and employment law and has represented clients in New York, New Jersey, and nationwide. He works closely with employers to provide strategic advice on legal compliance, personnel policies, and workplace investigations. Jeff is also a seasoned litigator who has successfully defended companies in a variety of employment disputes. His passion for labor relations stems from his father, a respected labor arbitrator. Jeff chose to further his knowledge in the field by studying Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University. Through his successful career, Jeff serves as a testament to the bond between a father and son united by a commitment to fairness in the workplace and the laws that govern it. LinkedIn

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Embracing Career Flexibility: Jeff's journey reminds us that the path to success is rarely linear. He transitioned from a plaintiff's attorney to the employer side to align with his career aspirations, showing the value of being adaptable in the face of market realities. This adaptability is essential for anyone looking to rise in today's dynamic job market.

2. Importance of Professional Growth Networks: Jeff and Aaron's discussion on the evolution of their mentor-mentee relationship into one of peers highlights the long-term value of such relationships. Cultivating a network of mentors and industry connections can provide essential guidance and support as you navigate your career, underscoring the need for intentional relationship-building in professional settings.

3. Cultural Shifts in Workplace Dynamics: The conversation about the effects of movements like Me Too and the transition to remote work sheds light on the ever-evolving nature of professional environments. Both employers and employees must stay informed and responsive to these cultural shifts to ensure a respectful and equitable workplace. This episode encourages listeners to actively participate in and contribute to significant conversations promoting change in their workspaces.

Show Overview 00:00 Jeff's Father's influence led to similar career paths.

04:21 Child of insurance agent experiences unique insights.

09:02 Law students often find career direction challenging.

10:56 Law school prospects shattered with Lehman Brothers.

16:41 Seeking experience to become marketable to firms.

22:08 Mentorship, importance of support and communication.

25:26 Workplace culture shapes mentor-mentee relationship success.

26:36 Assuming companies promote from within, not externally.

31:57 Legal industry compensation based on revenue generation.

34:11 Decisions driven by money, but also kindness.