Keep Hustling

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with photographer Tyler Caisse for an inspiring look at what it means to build a career behind the lens. Tyler shares how his journey started in high school, finding passion and purpose in photography as an escape and later a vocation, especially during the challenges of Covid and personal struggles. He opens up about the unique mindset required to thrive in a role that's often invisible, the pride and humility he feels when his work is displayed without recognition, and the intense drive to capture fleeting moments, whether at motocross events or NFL games. With stories of cross-country tours, long nights, and the realities of the business, Tyler demystifies the photographer's life and emphasizes the importance of hard work, resilience, and adaptability. The episode closes with Tyler's motivational mantra, "Just Do It," urging listeners to passionately pursue their dreams, regardless of age or circumstance.

Get To Know Tyler Caisse Tyler Caisse, I was born in 2003 and grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. Growing up I was always camera-shy, and so the younger me would be very glad to discover that my true calling was behind the lens, not in front of it. I am a firm believer in, you have one life, so live it. This is one thing that truly inspired me to follow my dream of becoming a professional photographer.

Once I answered the call to be behind the lens, there's been no looking back, and it's been full throttle ever since. The experiences I have faced throughout my photography career have brought tears of joy, sadness, confusion, and above all loads of pride in the work I have accomplished. This is one of many ways I know there is nothing I'd rather be doing.

I've gotten to make friendships with some of the best professionals, families, and artists there are. Through them, I get to display my passion and voice in such a creative way while also traveling and appreciating God's amazing design of our Earth.

While also maintaining my career I strive to live my life to the fullest and explore what's around me and beyond. I enjoy working out in the gym, the thrill of riding dirt bikes, being out with friends, and my oh my do I love the blessing that is food!

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Find Your Unique Path: Tyler Caisse inspires listeners by sharing how he chose a less-traveled road in photography, forging ahead while his peers followed more traditional routes. His journey demonstrates the value of carving your own path, trusting your instincts, and embracing a career, even if it means being the first or only one in your circle to do so. 2. Turn Adversity Into Motivation: Both Aaron Gordon and Tyler Caisse discuss how life's challenges, including personal struggles and the disruptions of COVID, can become sources of strength and introspection. Tyler Caisse's story highlights how overcoming tough times can fuel creativity, define character, and ultimately drive personal and professional growth. 3. Mastery Takes More Than Passion: The episode uncovers the realities behind the lens, showing that being a successful photographer isn't just about taking photos. Tyler Caisse explains that the bulk of his work is about editing, business management, and developing a deep knowledge of his tools, reminding us that mastery in any field requires commitment to the unseen and unglamorous parts of the craft. Show Overview 00:00 Gratitude for Behind-the-Camera Talent 03:29 Unexpected Recognition Feels Rewarding 06:17 Discovering Passion Through Photography 11:00 Young Photographer's Hard-Earned Pride 14:55 Long-Distance Love Beginnings 18:48 Mastering Your Camera Instincts

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon welcomes real estate entrepreneur Ernest Smith for an insightful dive into the realities of building success through grit, relentless learning, and integrity. Ernest Smith shares how he began house hacking at just 22, funded by his parents, and mastered the fundamentals of real estate by moving 12 times in six years. He reflects on leaving the traditional nine-to-five to pursue his passion for property investment and entrepreneurship. Throughout the conversation, Ernest Smith emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, strong relationships, and doing things the right way—even when no one is watching. The episode is peppered with stories about learning from every opportunity, prioritizing fairness, and building a reputation for accountability. Ernest Smith's mantra "Amaze Yourself" encourages listeners to challenge themselves every week and keep pushing boundaries in business and life. The show closes with a reminder that continuous growth and honest hustle are key to lasting success.

Get To Know Ernest Smith Ernest Smith is a real estate entrepreneur, licensed General Contractor, and investor who built his career the hard way—through action, discipline, and relentless learning. With a background in Drafting and Design Engineering, Ernest combines technical skill with real-world execution to create value in every deal he touches. After walking away from the traditional 9–5, he purchased his first property at 22 and began house hacking long before it was mainstream, moving 12 times in six years while mastering the fundamentals of real estate from the inside out. Today, Ernest actively acquires buy-and-hold rentals and completes high-margin flips in strategic markets, guided by data, integrity, and long-term vision. He believes success is built through relationships, accountability, and doing things the right way—especially when no one is watching. As the host of the Ernest Goes To Network Podcast, he connects with elite entrepreneurs and industry leaders to share real stories, real lessons, and real strategies—proving that your network truly is your net worth.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Master by Doing: Ernest Smith illustrates that true expertise comes from hands-on experience, not just book knowledge. By moving 12 times in 6 years and diving into every aspect of real estate "from the inside out," he highlights how real-world execution and relentless curiosity build both technical skill and confidence, ultimately leading to long-term mastery.

2. Build Relationships with Integrity: Both Aaron Gordon and Ernest Smith stress that success in business, and life, comes from cultivating genuine relationships and always operating with ethics, especially when no one is watching. Treating people fairly, being accountable, and upholding your word protect your reputation and open doors for future opportunities.

3. Amaze Yourself by Taking Action: The recurring "A.Y.! - Amaze Yourself" philosophy is about stretching your limits every week, whether in personal growth, business, or life experiences. Ernest Smith encourages listeners to take bold steps outside their comfort zones, reinforcing that steady progress and facing fears, rather than procrastination, are the keys to continuous learning and accomplishment.

Show Overview 00:00 Mastering Real Estate Through Moves

04:41 Daniel Sung's Inspiring Journey

09:31 Real-World Insights on Housing

10:16 Budgeting and Negotiation for Renovations

14:47 Value Relationships Over Short-Term Gains

18:50 Continuous Learning Is Essential

22:31 Skydiving Choices and Control

24:13 Driven and Inspired by A.Y.!

In this episode Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon welcomes Toronto-based entrepreneur Jennifer Yeh, aka The Fempreneur Babe, to discuss her journey from a corporate career to helping women embrace relentless, unapologetic passion in business. Jennifer Yeh shares her insights on overcoming self-imposed limitations, the power of manifestation at "hyper-speed," and why adaptability, gratitude, and taking action are key for entrepreneurs. She emphasizes that success comes from following curiosity and creating opportunities, not waiting for the perfect moment. The episode wraps with Jennifer Yeh's inspiring quote: "Leaders are bridges, and bridges are tested." Tune in for a motivating conversation about turning passion into purpose and embracing the hustle, on your own terms.

Get To Know Jennifer Yeh Jennifer Yeh is an internationally recognized entrepreneur, business mentor, and passionate advocate for feminine magnetism. Renowned for her dynamic approach to business and personal growth, Jennifer empowers women and entrepreneurs to pursue their missions with relentless courage and authenticity. As the visionary behind "Fempreneur Babe," she specializes in helping women harness their feminine energetics to unlock creativity, ignite passion, and transform purpose into profit. Jennifer's mentorship is rooted in the belief that women can create it all on their own terms by unapologetically living out their soul's calling. Her expertise spans hyperspeed manifestation, innovative business strategy, and the art of turning passion into thriving enterprises. Jennifer is celebrated for her ability to inspire, uplift, and guide others to embrace their fullest potential while making a meaningful impact in the world.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Follow the Breadcrumbs of Curiosity: Jennifer Yeh shares how her journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship began by simply making space to explore what truly excites her. Rather than needing absolute clarity, taking small steps and allowing curiosity to guide you can open unexpected doors.

2. Manifestation Is About Alignment, Not Waiting: The concept of manifestation at hyper-speed is unpacked as Jennifer Yeh explains that success isn't always slow, being ready and aligned with your goals allows opportunities to unfold quickly. It's not time, it's preparation and decisive action that truly accelerate growth.

3. Gratitude Grounds the Hustle: Maintaining gratitude for every part of your journey, whether that's a day job or a side hustle, helps build resilience and keeps you focused. Jennifer Yeh emphasizes that recognizing the magic in your present circumstances is key to staying grounded, adaptable, and passionately pursuing your vision.

Jennifer's favorite motivational quote from her mentor: "Leaders are bridges and bridges are tested."

Show Overview 00:00 Taking the Leap

05:06 Manifestation at Hyper-speed

09:59 Flow, Don't Overthink It

13:07 Creating Your Unapologetic Reality

16:06 Success Favors Flexibility Over Perfection

19:52 Gratitude Grounds and Grows Life

20:51 Embrace the Magic Within

On this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with experienced real estate advisor Will Helfricht to unpack the human side of real estate. Will Helfricht shares insights from his 15+ years in the industry, discussing how people skills, psychology, and a clear-eyed approach help clients navigate emotional home buying and selling decisions. He offers actionable advice for first-time buyers and sellers, expands on the importance of preparing and staging a home, and stresses that there's never a perfect time to buy, so focus on the must-haves, not market timing. The episode wraps with Will Helfricht's favorite motivational quote and some wild real estate stories. Tune in for valuable tips, real talk about market trends, and inspiration to keep hustling through every market cycle.

Get To Know Will Helfricht Will Helfricht, MBA, is a seasoned Real Estate Advisor with United Real Estate North Jersey / United Luxury Properties, specializing in seamless NYC-to-North Jersey relocations. With over 15 years of expertise in real estate, lending, and strategic negotiation, Will guides buyers, sellers, investors, and luxury clients across Bergen and Essex Counties, extending to the Jersey Shore.

As a dedicated relocation expert, he empowers professionals, families, first responders, educators, and healthcare workers transitioning from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx, offering in-depth insights on commutes, top school districts, tax advantages, neighborhoods, and lifestyle fit. Through programs like BergenHero.com, Will helps heroes maximize financial benefits for attainable homeownership, having raised over $55,000 for the community.

Leading the Living in North Jersey Team, Will delivers personalized, data-driven service including comprehensive market analyses, professional staging, virtual tours, targeted digital marketing, and off-market opportunities. His approach ensures stress-free transactions backed by a trusted network of professionals.

Recognized with the NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award (2019–2024) and certified as a Buffini & Company Mentor, Will is licensed across multiple MLS systems for unparalleled regional coverage. Committed to client success and community impact, he turns real estate goals into reality with confidence and care.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Balance Emotion and Logic in Big Decisions: Will Helfricht highlights the delicate dance between emotion and logic during major life transitions, like buying or selling a home. By sharing real-life scenarios, he demonstrates that while emotions are natural, keeping a clear, objective view helps clients focus on long-term goals and avoid getting sidetracked by minor details.

​ 2. Preparation Wins in Real Estate (and Life): The episode underscores the importance of thorough preparation, especially when selling a home. Will Helfricht stresses that working with a proactive advisor who helps stage, prep, and position your home can be the difference-maker. Simply "throwing up" a listing isn't enough; attention to detail and trust in expert advice maximizes your outcome in competitive environments. 3. Tune Out the Noise, Focus on Your Essentials: In navigating a constantly shifting marketplace full of opinions, market changes, and external pressures, Will Helfricht advises both real estate professionals and homebuyers to concentrate on their core needs and goals. By identifying "must-haves" and ignoring distractions, you set yourself up for confident decisions and lasting satisfaction, regardless of outside chatter.

Will's inspirational quote is by William Blake: "The road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom."

Show Overview 00:00 Finding My Why

04:29 Objective Guidance for Clients

06:21 Home Buying and Selling Tips

11:30 Politics and Housing Decisions

12:40 New York Exodus Over Taxes

16:10 Guiding Clients Through Decisions

21:00 Living Excess to Wisdom

In this episode of Keep Hustling, Aaron Gordon sits down with Aubie Knight, CEO of Big I North Carolina, for an in-depth conversation about the power of relationships, innovation, and leadership in the insurance industry. Aubie Knight shares insights on the importance of showing up, building real connections, and how investing in people drives both culture and performance. The discussion dives into finding balance between professional commitments and family, the value of learning from failure, and the need to fight complacency through constant innovation. Aubie Knight also reveals his approach to leading transformative change within his organization and offers actionable advice for young professionals on overcoming excuses, taking risks, and embracing collaboration. Tune in for practical tips, motivational anecdotes, and a dose of holiday cheer from two industry leaders passionate about hustling with purpose.

Get To Know Aubie Knight Aubie Knight is known throughout the insurance and association industry for his bold visions, innovative problem-solving approaches, and a constant desire for growth and evolution. He takes great pride in the fact that IIANC has been listed as a top employer in North Carolina for four consecutive years and that the IIANC team has an office culture and engagement score ranked in the top 1% of US employers.

As a result of his vision and leadership skills, Aubie has served on numerous Boards in both the association and insurance industries. He is constantly challenging himself and any organization that he is affiliated with to "get better"!

During his free time, Aubie loves spending time with his family, smoking meats, listening to live music, and visiting craft beer breweries. Aubie is a graduate of the University of Georgia and a huge Bulldog fan (and season ticket holder). Go Dawgs!

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Relationship Building Is Essential: Aubie Knight stresses that insurance—and most business endeavors—are fundamentally relationship businesses. Showing up in person and engaging in genuine conversations is crucial to building trust and deep relationships, which not only enrich workplace culture but also drive long-term success.

2. Innovate and Take Calculated Risks: The episode highlights Aubie Knight's philosophy of embracing innovation and not being afraid to fail fast and iterate. By treating organizational resources as tools for strategic growth, he encourages leaders to try new ideas, accept setbacks as part of progress, and continually fight complacency in pursuit of improvement.

3. Balance Professional Hustle with Personal Values: Aubie Knight discusses the importance of balancing industry commitments with family priorities. He reveals his intentional approach to travel and work obligations, reminding listeners that real hustle includes knowing when to prioritize personal relationships and well-being while still making a meaningful impact in their career. Aubie Knight's Inspirational Quote: "The question is not whether our ideas are crazy, but whether they are crazy enough."

Show Overview 00:00 Passion for College Football

03:15 Insurance is a Relationship Business

08:46 Balancing Priorities and Commitments

11:14 Relentless Hustle Drives Success

13:44 Creating Change Through Strategic Leadership

16:15 Taking the Leap for Change

20:08 Embrace Change, Innovate Boldly

23:54 Motivational Quotes and Invitations

On this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon is joined by marketing veteran Ira Gleser, whose career includes leadership roles at Coca-Cola, Microsoft, and AT&T. Ira Gleser shares insights on the dual nature of marketing, combining creativity and analytics, and the importance of hands-on experience for building successful brands. The conversation delves into the power of customer relationships, why real value is created beyond mere transactions, and how hustling is really about striving for excellence, not burnout. Ira Gleser also discusses his bestselling book Stewardship for Business and leaves listeners with the motivational message: The enemy of better is good. If you're looking to understand the heart behind great marketing and deeper business relationships, this episode delivers.

Get To Know Ira Gleser

Ira Gleser, founder and president of Amplify Marketing Communications, has a proven track record of building and activating brands by connecting them to B2B audiences in an engaging, meaningful way. He possesses a broad perspective gained from working in a variety of customer-facing management and leadership roles in the consumer goods (Coca-Cola), technology (Microsoft), consumer durables/manufacturing (Newell Brands), and live events (GES) industries.

With twenty-five years of restaurant and retail industry experience as a supplier partner and consultant, Ira has successfully collaborated with – and delivered value as a trusted business partner to – senior executives at more than twenty of the leading brands in these industries.

Having worked on both the agency and client sides, Ira has extensive experience creating successful integrated marketing communications programs and campaigns, as well as compelling sales presentations, to grow brands and businesses. He has also built a reputation for developing trusted relationships with clients/customers, key stakeholders, and partners.

LinkedIn Amplify Marketing Communications Buy Ira's Book >>> Stewardship for Business: A Playbook to Drive More Value Into Your Customer Relationships

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Harness Your Unique Hustle: Ira Gleser underscores that true success in marketing (and any career) comes from knowing your strengths and channeling your drive accordingly. Instead of forcing himself into the creative mold, he thrived by leaning into analytics, reminding listeners that identifying and hustling in your authentic lane is key to achieving your own version of success.

2. Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions: Drawing from decades at brands like Coca-Cola and Microsoft, Ira Gleser shares that deep, lasting business relationships drive results far beyond the surface-level sale. By genuinely understanding customers, showing up in their world, and creating value, you move from commodity selling to becoming a trusted partner, proving that in business, relationships are the ultimate currency.

3. Never Settle for "Good Enough": Ira Gleser leaves listeners with a powerful motivator: "The enemy of better is good." In fiercely competitive industries, continually striving for improvement, whether in service, execution, or personal growth, is what separates lasting success from mediocrity. Going that extra inch, even when it's hard, is a defining trait of effective hustlers everywhere.

Ira Gleser's Inspirational Quote: "The enemy of better is good."

Show Overview 00:00 Marketing: Art and Science 05:29 Redefining Hustle Culture 09:25 Value of Experience Over Tenure 11:08 Surprise and Delight Guests 14:12 People Are the Brand 18:21 Building Value Through Relationships 22:16 Small Actions, Big Impact 24:07 Trust, Relationships, and Business Growth

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Matt Sapaula, renowned financial coach, entrepreneur and Marine Corps veteran, to dive deep into the roots of hustle, resilience, and discipline. Matt shares stories from his upbringing, the impact of his parents' work ethic, his time in the Marine Corps, and overcoming adversity at rock bottom. He discusses the importance of preparation, mindset, and focusing on activities that truly move the needle. The conversation also touches on marriage as a multiplier and having the right partner in life and business. This episode is packed with real strategies, powerful anecdotes, and actionable advice for anyone looking to elevate their hustle and achieve lasting success. Get To Know Matt Sapaula Matt Sapaula: Founder of MoneySmartMovement and Host of 7 Figure Squad

Matt Sapaula is a seasoned financial coach and mentor, dedicated to transforming financial mindsets. As the founder and host of the popular YouTube channel and podcast, 7 Figure Squad, he explores faith, finance, fatherhood, and entrepreneurship. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry and a role as a Senior Board Council member at PHP Agency, Matt is committed to empowering agents across the country through training and mentorship.

A proud United States Marine Corps combat veteran, Matt draws on his diverse experiences to inspire others in their financial journeys. He has appeared on major networks like WGN and FOX, sharing his insights on personal and faith-based finance. Residing in Chicago with his wife Sheena and their five children, Matt's mission is to reshape how individuals perceive and achieve financial independence.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Hustle with Purpose: Matt Sapaula shares that many people work tirelessly, but not all hustle pays off. The key is to focus energy on the activities that truly move the needle, rather than getting sidetracked by busywork. By identifying and refining the right daily actions, anyone can transform hard work into meaningful results.

2. Build Unshakeable Resilience: Both Aaron Gordon and Matt Sapaula dive into their lowest moments, emphasizing that attitude and habits—not circumstances—are the foundations of a comeback. They stress that successful individuals use tough times as a springboard, controlling what they can and always looking for a way up, proving perseverance creates strength in business and life.

3. Multiply Success through Relationships: Matt Sapaula credits much of his empire-building to his supportive marriage, describing his wife as the "great multiplier." He highlights the power of choosing a partner who not only supports, but doubles the achievements and fortitude brought into the relationship. The lesson: surround yourself with people who amplify your vision and help transform aspirations into reality.

Show Overview 00:00 Preparation Leads to Success

05:08 Exodus and Miracles Forgotten

06:48 Hustle Smart, Not Hard

10:30 Closeout Day: Our Team's Culture

12:57 The Power of Marriage

18:44 Be Interested, Not Interesting

20:35 Financial Advice and Lawsuit Struggle

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with guest Michael Scarpati, an independent fiduciary financial planner and founder of Retire Us. Michael Scarpati shares his personal journey growing up with two contrasting financial influences, a frugal, banking-minded mother and an entrepreneurial, free-spirited father. This perspective led him to a mission of making advanced, independent financial advice accessible to everyone. The conversation dives into defining financial freedom, the importance of understanding one's financial habits, and why most people lack clarity on their retirement goals. Michael Scarpati breaks down common misconceptions about money, reveals the power of starting early with savings, and offers real-world advice on planning for the future. He also discusses how small tweaks and greater financial awareness can have a massive impact, urging listeners to become conscious participants in their own financial journey. The episode closes with an inspiring quote on the importance of making the unconscious conscious to take control of life's direction.

Get To Know Michael Scarpati Michael Scarpati is a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO & Founder of RetireUS, where he leverages over 15 years of expertise in financial planning to empower individuals towards achieving financial freedom. With a vision to make independent fiduciary financial guidance accessible to all, Michael co-founded RetireUS to revolutionize the financial services industry. His mission centers on creating a seamless integration of human relationships and technology, resulting in a frictionless financial planning experience that is faster, more cost-effective, and significantly more impactful than traditional methods.

In addition to his role at RetireUS, Michael is the chairman of the board for OWE, a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting impoverished communities through the provision of essential resources for sustainability and independence. He is consistently on the lookout for innovative opportunities to foster collaboration and growth, making a meaningful difference in both the financial sector and the communities he serves.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Define Your Financial Freedom: Michael Scarpati stresses that financial freedom is a personal definition, not a universal one. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on what financial independence truly means to them, understanding their unique goals rather than following the crowd or societal expectations.

2. Start Early and Stick to the Plan: Both Aaron Gordon and Michael Scarpati highlight the power of beginning financial planning as soon as possible. Saving and investing consistently, even modest amounts, while following a structured plan, can result in substantial financial growth over a lifetime, proving that it's never too early to build towards independence.

3. Become Conscious of Your Habits: The episode underscores how unconscious spending and habits can derail progress toward financial goals. Michael Scarpati encourages listeners to regularly assess and adjust their money habits, empowering them to make more intentional choices and avoid the trap of calling adverse outcomes "fate."

Show Overview 00:00 Financial Roots and Childhood 03:28 Comedy, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Wisdom 09:20 Grandparent Spoiling and Life Choices 10:58 Defining Financial Freedom Personally 13:47 Hustle and Stick to Plans 17:10 Reevaluating Money and Spending 22:27 Estate Tax Loophole Explained 26:02 Affordable Access to Financial Experts 27:20 Make the Unconscious Conscious

On this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon welcomes Rob McCarthy to dive deep into breaking free from "the script", societal expectations around success, money, and happiness. Rob McCarthy shares his journey from chasing external benchmarks to redefining achievement in line with personal values, highlighting the pitfalls of debt, comparison, and social media. The conversation explores how small, consistent wins and authentic self-reflection are the true building blocks for personal growth. Both discuss the importance of owning mistakes, dropping excuses, and writing your own story, rather than following someone else's. Listeners are encouraged to focus on improving themselves each day, finding happiness on their own terms, and relentlessly defining, and chasing, their own hustle.

Get To Know Rob McCarthy R.P. "Rob" McCarthy is a straight-talking writer, entrepreneur, and father who has spent years cutting through the fake noise of personal growth, starting with his own story, bringing real-life experience. He speaks with humor, grit, and honesty, connecting with anyone who is finished with fluffy self-help and is sick of pretending, ready to take action to change their life's trajectory.

F*CK THE SCRIPT: HOW TO OWN YOUR $HIT AND REWRITE YOUR STORY

About The Book

A raw, unapologetic wake-up call for anyone tired of playing by society's script. There is no sugar coating; this book breaks down the things holding people back and gives them the firepower to own their mistakes, drop the excuses, and rewrite their own story.

3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Write Your Own Script: Both Rob McCarthy and Aaron Gordon emphasize the importance of defining success on your own terms. Following society's "script" often leads to unfulfillment; true satisfaction comes when you challenge those expectations and chart your own course.

2. Small Wins Matter: Progress builds through daily, incremental improvements, not overnight transformations. Rob McCarthy shares how celebrating minor victories, like saving a few dollars or making healthy choices, creates a foundation for lasting change and confidence.

3. Comparison Is a Trap: Social media magnifies unhealthy comparisons and unrealistic standards. The episode urges listeners to shift their focus from external validation to internal growth, measuring achievements against who you were yesterday, not the influencer in your feed

Show Overview 00:00 Shocking Stats on Insurance Risk

04:41 Modern Society's Social Media Trap

09:45 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

11:14 Embracing Truth Over Illusions

16:32 Finding Inspiration in Reflection

17:50 Trying Leads to Fulfillment

23:09 Writing My Own Story

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon welcomes guest Coleman Flentge, who shares his inspirational journey from a small town in Kentucky to building a career and business centered around music. Coleman Flentge discusses the impact of his mother's unwavering hustle and how her sacrifices shaped his own determination and drive. He recalls overcoming early discouragement and finding his passion for music, eventually moving to Florida to pursue his dreams and earning a master's degree in music education. Together, Aaron Gordon and Coleman Flentge explore the transformative power of music, how it connects people, heals, and helps individuals express themselves, whether alone or in a community. They emphasize that making and enjoying music is a deeply personal, freeing experience not limited by talent. The episode closes with reflections on creativity, mindfulness, and an inspiring Mark Twain quote about living fully. If you're looking for motivation to follow your passion and appreciate the everyday hustle, this episode delivers powerful insights and heartfelt stories.

Get To Know Coleman Flentge Coleman Flentge is a native of Kentucky who moved to Tampa, Florida, in 2014 to attend the University of Tampa (UT). At UT, Coleman studied conducting. He was the assistant conductor for the Men's Glee Club and Chamber Singers. He was recognized by the UT faculty for his academic achievements, becoming the department tutor for Music Theory and History. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education in 2017.

Coleman began his career as a music educator in Plant City, where he was the music teacher at Walden Lake Elementary from 2017 to 2021. While there, Coleman developed an enriching musical experience for his students by supervising an excellent, rigorous general music program and conducting a multi-voice chorus and a ukulele ensemble.

In 2019, Coleman was given the honor of leading the 150 voices of the East Chorus for the Hillsborough County Fine Arts Festival.

In 2020, he received the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Award for bringing his passion for inclusion into all his classes.

Since 2018, Coleman has served as the Associate Director of Music at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church-Tampa under the direction of Dr. Ryan Hebert. At St. Andrew's, Coleman conducts the adult choir, two children's choirs, and a professional handbell ensemble.

A graduate of the Summer Master of Music Education (Choral Conducting) program from Florida State University, Coleman has conducted a variety of choral pieces from all eras of music, which he believes has helped him refine effective rehearsal strategies.

Coleman is the Music Facilitator at Dr. Kiran C. Patel High School in Temple Terrace. Since the inaugural year for a music program at Patel, Coleman has built and cultivated a distinctive program offering options for every learner interested in pursuing the Musical Arts. He is currently teaching two choruses, an orchestra, guitar, and music theory. The program has blossomed into a rich, meaningful music experience for all its participants.

As the Artistic Director for the PCC Chorale, for a third season, Coleman is enthusiastically continuing development of the group's musical excellence. Coleman firmly believes that music performance should be an experience that brings people together, unifying us through the art and genius of music. Coleman is doing his part to nurture the singers' vocal skills and enrich their lives while leading them toward new musical frontiers.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways

1. Hustle Inspired by Upbringing: Coleman Flentge shares how his drive to succeed originates from witnessing his mother's relentless determination to provide for her family against all odds. This highlights how early-life experiences and unsung acts of perseverance from loved ones can deeply shape our motivations and define how we approach our own hustle.

2. The Transformative Power of Music: The episode explores music's unique ability to heal, energize, and connect people—regardless of skill level or background. Both Aaron Gordon and Coleman Flentge discuss how music serves not only those who listen but especially those who create it, illustrating that authentic self-expression through music can bring profound personal fulfillment and communal bonding.

3. Creativity as Presence and Healing: Coleman Flentge emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with creativity as a path to mindfulness, personal growth, and resilience. By leaving his classroom teaching career to pursue a venture centered on fostering creativity and presence, he demonstrates that stepping beyond comfort zones and nurturing one's creative spirit can spark entrepreneurial empowerment and help navigate life's biggest transitions.

Show Overview 00:00 Gratitude for Coleman 03:31 Driven Passion Fuels Musical Journey 08:38 Resilience and Lifelong Inspiration 12:31 Transformative Power of Music 15:00 Music: Innate to Humanity 16:52 Music as Soul's Expression 23:06 Transformative Power of Music 25:40 The Timeless Power of Music 27:23 Fear of Life and Death