Keep Hustling

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon welcomes Ariel Meirov, a prominent NFL newsbreaker, to discuss the behind-the-scenes journey of building a successful sports media brand while staying true to his Orthodox Jewish faith. Ariel shares the unique challenges of balancing religious observance—such as navigating the NFL draft schedule around the Sabbath—while remaining fully dedicated to both his personal beliefs and professional aspirations. The conversation highlights the significance of integrity, relationship-building, and demonstrating genuine respect for others in the business context. Ariel also opens up about career-defining moments, from forging relationships with NFL insiders to realizing he could turn his passion into a thriving career. He emphasizes that success doesn't always require being the loudest in the room and encourages listeners to be themselves and persist, regardless of the obstacles. The episode closes with Ariel's favorite motivational quote: "Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm possible,'" reflecting his inspiring outlook that perseverance and authenticity can make even the most unlikely dreams achievable. Get To Know Ariel Meirov

Ari Meirov is a respected NFL Insider known for his comprehensive coverage of the National Football League. As a prominent figure in sports journalism, Meirov has built a reputation for delivering insightful analysis, breaking news, and detailed reporting on the ins and outs of the NFL.

With a career that spans several years in sports media, Meirov has established himself as a trusted source for NFL news, leveraging his deep connections within the league to bring fans up-to-the-minute updates on trades, signings, injuries and behind-the-scenes action. His thorough understanding of the NFL's complexities and a keen eye for the sport's evolving landscape make him a go-to expert for followers eager for the latest developments.

Before his current role, Meirov honed his skills in various capacities within the sports media world. He is recognized for his meticulous approach to research and ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner. Meirov's dedication to his craft has seen him develop from a passionate sports enthusiast into a professional whose insights contribute to the broader sports dialogue.

Meirov's work often takes him across the country, where he is seen on the sidelines, at practices and in front offices, gathering the information that will feed the non-stop NFL news cycle. His presence on social media platforms has garnered a substantial following, with fans and professionals relying on his updates to understand the league.

Meirov is appreciated not only for his factual reporting but also for his analysis. He breaks down team strategies, salary cap situations and draft prospects with an analytical eye, offering perspectives that help demystify the decisions made by team executives and the league office.

In addition to his reporting, Meirov is known for his involvement in charitable activities, often using his platform to highlight important causes and encourage community involvement. His engagement with his audience goes beyond the professional realm, showing a genuine commitment to using his influence for a positive impact.

Meirov's expertise is not just in collecting and disseminating news but in his ability to contextualize it within the broader narrative of the NFL. His work is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the league's inner workings, and his contributions to NFL journalism have been recognized by his peers and sports fans alike. As the NFL continues to grow and evolve, Meirov's role as an insider will undoubtedly become even more essential to those closely following the sport.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Integrate Personal Values into Professional Life: Ariel Meirov illustrates how staying true to one's religious and personal values doesn't have to conflict with a high-profile career. From flying to Seattle to balance his Shabbos observance with NFL draft coverage, his story proves that authenticity and ingenuity can coexist with ambition, inspiring listeners to honor their beliefs while pursuing success.

2. Success Comes from Consistency and Genuine Relationships: Ariel's journey from tweeting to almost no followers to being messaged by NFL stars and respected reporters is a testament to the power of persistence. His emphasis on relationship-building and letting the quality of his work speak for itself underlines that consistent effort and authenticity attract opportunities—even if recognition takes time.

3. Spotlight Others, Not Just Yourself: Instead of making his achievements the center of attention, Ariel focuses on elevating others through his reporting and his NFL Spotlight show, which highlights industry stories and journeys. His approach reveals that building a personal brand doesn't require self-promotion; real influence often arises from celebrating the successes of those around you.

Show Overview: 00:00 Connections: The Power of Networking 05:26 Dual Perspectives: Faith and Profession 06:42 Understanding Orthodox Judaism's Devotion 12:14 NFL Coverage Without Self-Promotion 13:03 Defining Moment of Success 18:47 Success Without Conformity 20:53 Misunderstood Beauty of Football 25:20 Grateful Work Feels Like Joy 27:53 Jets' Transformation Under New Leadership 29:41 Nothing Is Impossible

On this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Brad Henderson to dive into the challenges and realities of leadership. Brad shares his personal journey of navigating isolation in leadership roles, learning from mistakes, and the importance of having the right mentors. They explore how true leadership isn't about having all the answers, but about empowering others, building strong teams, and leaving a lasting impact that goes beyond individual achievements. Brad discusses why leadership shouldn't be left to chance, the crucial role of emotional intelligence, and how positive mentorship can reshape organizations and legacies. The episode concludes with Brad's favorite motivational quote and actionable insights for anyone seeking to persevere through challenging times and lead with intention.

Get To Know Brad Henderson Brad Henderson is a leadership coach and author of "The Consistency Effect." He believes leadership is too important to be left to chance. Drawing on four decades as a CEO and senior executive across real estate, telecommunications, technology, and manufacturing, Brad serves as a trusted, silent partner providing candid insights and unvarnished guidance leaders need to navigate their challenges and blind spots.

What makes his coaching different? He doesn't just advise—he has lived it. He has made the tough decisions, led difficult conversations, and built high-performing teams that transformed organizations. When leaders receive the mentorship they deserve, they create organizations that elevate people and change the world.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Embrace Leadership's Loneliness: Brad's story highlights that the higher you rise, the lonelier leadership can feel. True leaders must accept the isolation, seek out mentorship, and invest in building a supportive network to thrive at the top.

2. Be True To Yourself, Even If It Risks Your Position: Brad's pivotal career moment came when he chose personal integrity over corporate survival. His journey shows that staying authentic, even when it's tough, ultimately leads to greater success and fewer regrets.

3. Invest in Mentorship for Lasting Impact: Brad believes leadership is too important to leave to chance. Prioritizing mentorship and continuous coaching not only elevates organizations but also empowers future generations of leaders, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Show Overview: 00:00 Navigating Leadership Challenges

04:07 Embracing Risk in Leadership

08:56 Leadership Blind Spots and Coaching

11:07 Leadership Education Gap

13:49 Unwanted Leadership Challenges

17:52 Effective Leadership Paradox

21:58 Legacy and Impact: Coaching Ripple Effect

23:54 Learn from Others' Mistakes

In the latest episode of *Keep Hustling*, Aaron Gordon chats with Ruben Gomez, a Venezuelan entrepreneur living in Omaha, Nebraska. Ruben opens up about his struggles with anxiety and depression after relocating to the US and adjusting to the harsh Midwest winters. He discusses how the changing seasons shape our routines, overall performance, and mental well-being. Ruben emphasizes the importance of creating flexible, seasonal routines instead of clinging to rigid, year-round schedules – a shift that has been vital for his personal and professional development.

Together with Aaron, Ruben highlights the significance of finding harmony and balance in hustle culture, challenging the common belief that success relies on constant grinding. The episode is packed with practical advice on how to tailor your habits to fit the different seasons of life. Ruben leaves us with a thought-provoking insight on the value of reconnecting with our roots by being mindful of the natural cycles around us.

Quote to Remember:

"Understanding the seasons in your life is probably the most important thing we have to go back to…going back to our roots is what we need, which is simply paying attention to the seasonal changes in our environment."

– Ruben Gomez

Get To Know Ruben Gomez Ruben Gomez is the founder of The Seasonal Movement, a project dedicated to transforming lives by connecting the science of epigenetics with the natural rhythms of the seasons. With over 10 years of research and development, Ruben created the Epigenetic Seasonal Programming Method. This method helps individuals align their unique inner biology with their current environmental patterns, enabling them to live with greater harmony, energy, and purpose. Known for his holistic and innovative approach, Ruben is deeply committed to a global mission: to elevate the consciousness and frequency of humanity, one mind at a time by guiding individuals to become aware of their unique genes and the natural seasonal rhythms of their environment, guiding them to build routines that are aligned with their seasonall environment, ultimately leading to sustainable success one season at the time. Guiding individuals to show up as their best selves, not by striving to do more, but by achieving more with less effort

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Embrace Seasonal Rhythm for Success: Ruben explains how syncing your routines with the natural cycles of the seasons can boost both productivity and well-being. Adapting your schedule to your environment, rather than resisting it, is crucial for maintaining high performance sustainably.

2. Redefine Hustle with Flow and Alignment: Real hustle isn't about grinding non-stop; it's about finding alignment with your life's rhythms. Ruben and Aaron both agree that changing our perspective on hustle can help us keep the momentum going without burning out.

3. Flexibility is Key to Long-Lasting Habits: The belief in a one-size-fits-all routine is misleading and often leads to failure. Ruben's experiences reveal that adapting your habits as life and seasons change is the true secret to building routines that last.

Show Overview: 00:00 Invisible Wall Breakthrough 04:39 Springtime Challenges: Maintaining Success 07:18 Embrace Vulnerability and Balance 11:09 Seasonal Impact on Personal Goals 14:12 Replacing Hustle with Alignment 18:00 Hustle and Flow Dynamics 19:54 Optimizing Biological Rhythms 25:11 The Privilege of Avoiding Grind 26:47 Embrace Seasonal Wisdom

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Joel Miller, a financial planner passionate about empowering clients to achieve financial freedom and generational wealth. Joel shares his journey from Chicago to the Twin Cities and dives deep into the myths and mistakes younger clients make—especially the misconception that financial planning is only for the ultra-wealthy or those near retirement. The conversation explores the snowball effect of small financial decisions, the importance of "penciling in" goals instead of seeking perfection, and why budgeting and estate planning matter at any income level. Joel also highlights creating lasting value through flat-fee services and stresses the impact of making confident financial decisions. The episode closes with motivational advice to "be the change you want to see in the world."

Get To Know Joel Miller Joel Miller is the founder and CEO of Flames Financial Planning, a flat-fee, membership-based financial planning firm dedicated to bringing peace and freedom to clients' financial lives, regardless of their net worth. The firm combines comprehensive services, including investment strategy, financial planning, tax filing, and estate planning, into one approachable subscription model.

Outside of work, Joel is a strong advocate for the idea that physical fitness directly enhances overall well-being and professional performance. An avid cyclist, he has completed three 70.3 Half Ironman triathlons. In his view, when fitness begins to slip in priority, work and finances often follow suit.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Progress Over Perfection: Joel emphasizes that striving for perfection can actually hold you back—what matters most is taking the first step and making consistent progress, even if your plans aren't "set in stone." This mindset shift can jumpstart your financial (and personal) growth journey.

2. Busting the Passive Income Myth: Many young professionals believe owning rental property is the only path toward financial freedom. Joel debunks this, stressing that there are many wealth-building strategies and that understanding your income, expenses, and goals matters more than chasing trends.

3. Confidence Transforms Hustle: Having a clear plan for your finances isn't just about numbers—it builds confidence that spills over into every area of life. Joel explains how simplifying your financial life enables you to make more empowered decisions, freeing up energy to pursue what truly matters.

Show Overview:

00:00 Targeting Younger Clients for Services

03:59 "Impact of Small Financial Decisions"

09:29 Rethinking the Modern American Dream

12:59 Value of Early Consultation

13:40 Fear of Investing in Self-Improvement

17:20 Innovative Flat-Fee Financial Planning

22:18 Estate Planning: A Gift of Love

25:19 Open Communication for Financial Guidance

27:12 Gratitude and Opportunity Invitation

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with the "Bash Brothers of Hillcrest," Avi Adelman and Dovid Gottlieb, the dynamic duo behind the Hillcrest Salt Bow League (HSL). The trio dive into the power of youth and adult sports, the life lessons learned on the field, and how building leagues can foster community, confidence, and lifelong memories. They share stories about managing passionate parents, the challenges of growing a grassroots organization, and the unique hustle required to turn a local league into a thriving community hub. The episode is packed with insight, laughs, and inspiration for anyone looking to create impact through sports, business, or good old-fashioned hustle.

Get To Know Avi and Dovid

In 2023, two friends and softball teammates, Avi Adelman and Dovid Gottlieb, realized a dream by purchasing the Hillcrest Softball League (HSL), which had been running since 2002. In just two years, they have transformed HSL from a two-season softball league into the fastest-growing Jewish sports league in the tri-state area—now encompassing five different sports, year-round competition, and leagues for all ages, and boys and girls

Learn more about HSL here:

hillcrestsoftballleague.com

@hslsports

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Sports Build Lifelong Confidence: Creating positive youth sports experiences isn't just about skills on the field—it's about developing confidence and memories that last a lifetime. Avi and Dovid stress how early athletic participation can shape self-esteem, teach mastery, and provide a foundation for success well beyond the game.

2. Embrace the Power of Community: HSL's mission goes beyond the scoreboard. Avi highlights how their leagues intentionally bring together kids and adults from diverse backgrounds, making "sports become community." The league offers both healthy competition and a sense of belonging, proving the value of showing up and supporting others.

3. Hustle with Heart and Persistence: Building something meaningful means hearing "no" and hustling anyway. Avi's relentless approach—even being called a "professional harasser" with a grin—shows that respectful persistence and belief in your mission are key. Whether it's launching new leagues or growing sponsorships, it's all about not giving up in the face of obstacles.

Show Overview:

00:00 Youth Sports Impact & Challenges

05:05 Breaking Ramaz's 42-Year Curse

07:08 Youth Sports Confidence Building

11:56 Psychology Questions and Freudian Concepts

13:11 Contemplations on Play and Work

18:13 Pushing Boundaries Beyond Nursing Homes

19:45 Unexpected Role Shift in Healthcare

24:27 No Apologies, Respect Boundaries

26:47 Expanding Community Sports Initiatives

31:22 Sales Success Through Client Retention

33:35 Business-First, Not Charity-Driven

37:35 Relentless Sponsor Promotion Strategy

40:43 Passion-Driven Career Leap

42:46 Mother: The Backbone of Success

46:29 Basketball Championship Fan Support

50:42 Youth Baseball Pitch Count Conflict

53:51 Sports as Community Focus

In this episode of Keep Hustling, Aaron Gordon welcomes entrepreneur and podcast host Jordan Edwards to dive into what it truly means to hustle. Jordan shares his unique approach, built around five life pillars: mental health, physical health, community service, philanthropy, spirituality, and relationships, which he uses to shape his goals and measure success beyond just money or career wins. The conversation covers marathon running, global travel, setting meaningful goals, and overcoming self-doubt. Jordan and Aaron discuss the value of embracing the journey, building mental muscle for hard things, and redefining success on your own terms. Packed with real-life stories and practical mindset shifts, this episode is a motivating listen for anyone looking to optimize their own hustle and life balance.

Get To Know Jordan Edwards Jordan Edwards is the Founder of Edwards Consulting and the host of the top 1% podcast, #Clockedin. As a coach, speaker, and entrepreneur, Jordan brings a wealth of life experience, wisdom, and insight into his work. With a commitment to personal growth and helping others become the best versions of themselves, Jordan has hiked the Inca Trail, traveled to 27 countries, and completed two marathons—experiences that have shaped his understanding of resilience, discipline, and holistic well-being.

Throughout his journey, Jordan has had the privilege of interviewing some of the world's top leaders, including the Founder of Reebok and the Co-Founder of Priceline. These powerful conversations inform his approach to coaching, which integrates five key pillars: Mental Health, Physical Health, Community Service & Philanthropy, Relationships, and Spirituality. These pillars guide his work, helping individuals and organizations thrive by addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

Jordan's work isn't just about achieving success—it's about creating a balanced, meaningful life. By focusing on mental health and physical health, giving back to the community, building strong relationships, and nurturing spirituality, Jordan empowers his clients to build lives of purpose and fulfillment. His experiences, both personally and professionally, enable him to inspire and guide audiences toward resilience, personal development, and lasting success. With years of experience, the consultants at Edwards Consulting provide valuable insights that can transform your business. We stay ahead of industry trends to provide you with the best advice.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Redefining Hustle through Life's Pillars: Jordan reveals that genuine hustle isn't just about grinding for professional gains, but optimizing all facets of life, mental health, physical health, relationships, community service, philanthropy, and spirituality. Integrating these "five pillars" leads to a fuller, more meaningful version of success.

2. The Power of Stretch Goals: Running a marathon or tackling the Inca Trail isn't just about fitness—it's about expanding what you believe is possible. Jordan and Aaron emphasize how taking on daunting, unfamiliar challenges builds the muscle of self-belief, enabling you to face bigger hurdles in business and life with confidence.

3. Enjoying the Journey, Not Just the Destination: Both guest and host stress that focusing solely on end goals can rob you of fulfillment and growth. Real hustle is found in embracing the ups and downs of the process, recalibrating when needed, and celebrating progress—because, as Jordan says, "the journey is the destination."

Show Overview: 00:00 Optimizing Hustle for a Cause

05:10 Marathon Hustle and Admiration

07:40 Beyond Marathons: Expanding Belief

12:37 Balancing Life's Key Areas

16:21 Building Community Through Walmart Access

17:05 Community Impact Scales Dramatically

23:15 Recalibration and Spiritual Growth

24:22 Defining Personal Success Vision

In this inspiring episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Dave Levinger, a rising videographer whose story is a testament to embracing creativity and relentless self-belief. Dave shares how, as recently as 2022, he began his journey with little experience, filming his brother's magic tricks for $20 before teaching himself the ins and outs of the craft using only a basic camera and his phone. Through tenacity, networking, and a willingness to learn from scratch, Dave now finds himself shooting high-profile events at venues like Madison Square Garden and NFL games, all within a few short years. Dave candidly discusses the realities of building a creative business, overcoming imposter syndrome, and carving out a non-traditional career path in the age of social media. He also talks about the importance of being both "invisible" and hyper-focused as a professional videographer, navigating client expectations, and his ambitions to grow a media agency. The episode is packed with practical lessons on turning passion into a thriving business and redefining what it means to hustle in today's world.

Get To Know Dave Levinger

Dave Levinger is a New York City–based freelance content creator and sports videographer with a sharp eye for capturing the action and emotion of live events. Known by his handle @dave_levinger, he's amassed over 9 k followers on Instagram and nearly 6 k on TikTok, where his dynamic edits and behind-the-scenes sports footage have garnered hundreds of thousands of likes

Dave thrives in high-pressure environments—whether courtside at a basketball game, in the dugout at a baseball park, or on the sidelines of high-stakes matches—alwaysobsessed with getting the right shot rather than simply enjoying the moment. His work spans a variety of sports, plus event and concert videography, evident from his energetic feeds on Instagram and YouTube

A consistent theme across his platforms is authenticity: Dave started as a fan and grew into a pro videographer, showcasing a full-circle journey that inspires fellow creators He also collaborates with brands like @stadiumcustomkicks, weaving personal passion into polished commercial content

Instagram TikTok Youtube 3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Start Before You're Ready: Dave Levinger's story powerfully illustrates that you don't need to be an expert or have the perfect equipment to begin pursuing your passion. With no camera skills at the start of 2022 and nothing but a broken device and a phone editing app, Dave took imperfect action. His journey underscores the importance of starting with what you have, embracing the unknown, and learning by doing—real growth often begins outside your comfort zone.

2. Turn Creativity Into Career: The episode highlights how a creative mindset, even if unconventional, can become the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career. Dave's transition from a non-traditional student and part-time magician's helper to a professional videographer working at iconic venues reinforces that following your interests—and not society's narrow definitions of success—can lead to unique opportunities and meaningful work.

3. Make Your Own Opportunities: Instead of waiting for doors to open, Dave demonstrates the power of persistence and self-advocacy. From hustling for media credentials at Madison Square Garden to pitching his skills with confidence, he shows how reaching out, building small connections, and offering value can break through barriers. Taking initiative and not accepting "no" as the final answer is a crucial lesson for anyone aspiring to create their own path.

Show Overview: 00:00 Post-High School Career Shift

05:22 Breaking Free from Realistic Life

08:38 Clunky Camera Vlogging Journey

10:13 Reflection on Growth and Hustle

14:12 Creative Breakthrough in Filmmaking

17:38 Unexpected Presence Grabs Attention

21:24 Behind the Scenes of Video Creation

24:06 "Skilled Creators Simplify Editing"

28:03 "Filming Shy Rebo: Behind the Scenes"

30:13 Networking for Opportunity at MSG

32:49 Persistent Efforts for Assistance

38:12 "MSG Experience: Awe and Focus"

39:45 Embracing Talent Over Training

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Ryan Englin, founder of Core Matters, to dig into the challenges and opportunities of hiring and retaining talent in blue-collar industries. Ryan shares his personal journey from a blue-collar upbringing to entrepreneurship and discusses the image problem faced by the trades, emphasizing the essential and undervalued role of skilled workers. The conversation dives into why retaining talent is harder than recruiting, how modern generations expect more from employers, and the importance of empathy, communication, and fostering connections within teams. Ryan also shares actionable insights for building strong workplace cultures and inspiring the next generation to take pride in blue-collar work. The episode wraps up with Ryan's favorite motivational quote and encouragement to "keep hustling."

Get To Know Ryan Englin Best-Selling Author, Creator of the Core Fit Hiring System, Consultant to the Trades

Ryan Englin is a dedicated advocate for small to medium-sized businesses in blue-collar industries, inspired by his childhood observing his father's relentless dedication as an entrepreneur. With extensive experience in corporate America and as the CEO of Core Matters, Ryan empowers business leaders to create highly productive companies by prioritizing the recruitment and retention of top talent. Through his dynamic speaking engagements, workshops, and webinars, Ryan delivers innovative insights on recruiting, employee development, and transformative recruitment strategies. His engaging approach sparks meaningful change, energizing audiences and equipping them to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Ryan Englin Website

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Amazon Author

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Reframe the Trades: Ryan Englin underscores that the skilled trades suffer from a reputation problem, not a talent shortage. By shifting our perception to recognize the immense value and essential nature of trades like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, individuals and parents can empower the next generation to pursue meaningful, high-demand careers that truly keep our society running.

2. Retain, Don't Just Recruit: It's not just about getting people in the door—it's about keeping them engaged and motivated. Ryan points out that many blue collar industries have a retention issue due to outdated management styles and a lack of empathy for modern workers' needs. Embracing change, fostering empathy, and building genuine connections within teams are key strategies for companies to reduce turnover and build thriving workplaces.

3. Invest in Human Connection: In an age of digital overload and workplace loneliness, Ryan champions the power of authentic relationships at work. Employers who deliberately foster communication and create environments where employees form friendships—by asking personal questions and encouraging team bonding—see greater engagement, loyalty, and productivity, proving that culture is a company's secret weapon.

Show Overview: 00:00 Breaking Free from Family Business

03:43 Trade Industry's Retention Crisis

07:10 Overvalued Professions: Attorney vs. Plumber

12:34 Adapting to Modern Workforce Needs

13:43 Supporting Employee Work-Life Balance

17:51 Workplace Kinship Eases Sacrifices

20:44 Workplace Friendships Boost Engagement

24:49 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Journey

In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon talks with Tom Kubiniec, a self-taught business leader who never attended college or worked for another company. Tom shares his unconventional journey from aspiring musician to becoming the global leader in military weapon storage solutions. He discusses the importance of perseverance, learning from setbacks, and fostering "creative conflict" to inspire innovation within teams. Tom also opens up about the power of focusing on what you can control, blocking out outside noise, and letting go of fear of judgment. This insightful conversation is packed with practical advice and inspiration for entrepreneurs and leaders ready to hustle, adapt, and break through barriers.

Get To Know Tom Kubiniec

CEO, SecureIt | Serial Entrepreneur | Small Arms Storage Expert | Automotive & Outdoor Enthusiast

Tom Kubiniec, a serial entrepreneur whose journey is defined by an unwavering commitment to innovation and a ceaseless pursuit of knowledge. Tom is considered the leading authority on small arms storage and armory design.

His company SecureIt is the global leader in military weapon storage and one of America's fastest growing consumer brands. Twice listed in Inc Magazine's fastest growing companies in America, he has solidified his reputation as an adept business leader.

Rock Guitarist

Before his successful foray into business, Tom spent his early years in the music world. He was a former heavy metal guitarist, spending years on the road after completing high school. However, due to chronic tendinitis, he transitioned to the business world and the beginning of his journey towards innovation and success.

Outdoorsman

Tom's interests also encompass outdoor pursuits. An avid outdoorsman, he ventured into rock and ice climbing, scaling peaks in the California and the Canadian Rockies. These experiences in nature contributed to his growth as both an individual and an entrepreneur. "my greatest life lesson occurred on the north face of Mt. Athabasco, a 2000' wall of ice in the Canadian Rockies."

His diverse passions extend to hunting, both with a bow and rifle. He is equally skilled in long-range shooting and holds a fascination for firearms. "My mission with Securett is to change the way people think about firearms storage and make Americans safer and better prepared".

Automotive

Transitioning from mountains to racetracks, Tom secured consecutive SCCA road racing championships in a Mazda RX7 and holds lap records in various southwestern race tracks. His current endeavor involves building a custom speed car to break the Class J land speed record in August 2025.

Tom's passion for automobiles goes beyond the racetrack; he is an adept collector, builder, and restorer of vintage sports cars. This passion reflects a deep appreciation for automotive history and craftsmanship. "Busy hands, free mind - I spend a little time every day in the shop working on a car. I find mechanical work like this frees up my thinking and allows me to make better business decisions".

Healthcare

In addition to his business ventures and pursuits in speed, Tom is a strong advocate for self-directed healthcare. He has embraced the carnivore diet and critically examines the intersection of health, food, pharmaceuticals, and medical expertise. "America is becoming less healthy as a nation. There is a direct correlation between diet and health that modern healthcare simply will not consider."

Education

Tom's diverse interests extend to education, where he offers insights that challenge conventional perspectives. His thoughts encourage a reevaluation of the value of a college degree in today's context.

Entrepreneur

Tom has built three successful companies ranging from computer technology to defense contractor to E-com. His wide range of business experience give him unique insight into the challenges facing many entrepreneurs. Beyond his professional achievements, Tom is dedicated to fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship. He imparts wisdom on creativity, leadership, and the challenges of entrepreneurial endeavors.

Tom Kubinec's candid and unvarnished approach to dialogue breaks down barriers in a world often confined by formalities. His broad spectrum of interests and expertise makes him a sought-after guest for podcasts and news shows alike. LinkedIn Instagram Facebook SecureIt Website

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Master the Art of the Pivot: Tom Kubiniec's journey demonstrates that setbacks and pivots are not roadblocks but stepping stones. When his career as a guitarist was unexpectedly cut short, Tom didn't dwell on disappointment—instead, he threw himself into learning new skills and discovering untapped opportunities. His story exemplifies how adapting quickly and relentlessly evolving are essential for lasting success.

2. Focus on What You Can Control: In both business and life, Tom emphasizes the importance of focusing your energy on the factors you can influence rather than getting bogged down by external noise or stressors. Whether it was shifting his products when tariffs hit or simply outworking competitors, Tom's ability to keep hustling—regardless of circumstances—shows how channeling your efforts into your sphere of control leads to impactful results.

3. Build Cultures of Creative Conflict: Tom challenges leaders to foster environments where team members feel empowered to question, challenge, and contribute creatively without fear of retribution. By encouraging "creative conflict," he believes teams unlock their true potential. His approach proves that the best ideas and highest growth come from safe, collaborative, and uninhibited workplaces, not from echo chambers of "yes" people.

Show Overview: 00:00 The Syracuse's Significance: A Personal Connection

04:34 From Tape Racks to Secure IT

09:13 Perseverance in Pursuing Passion

10:33 Mastery Leads to Success

14:05 Mastery Through Meticulous Practice

19:48 Embracing Misfits for Change

21:32 Encouraging Open Dialogue in Healthcare

24:13 Overcoming Growth Plateaus with Vistage

In this powerful episode of Keep Hustling, Aaron Gordon sits down with Dr. Rob Kelly to uncover his extraordinary journey from homelessness and addiction in Manchester, England, to becoming a leading expert in addiction recovery and mindset coaching in the US. Dr. Kelly shares the pivotal moment of his spiritual awakening, the impact of childhood trauma on addictive personalities, and how he transformed extreme challenges into a multimillion-dollar enterprise helping others. The conversation dives deep into hustle culture, embracing one's true self, and why striving for 98%, not perfection, leads to lasting success. Dr. Kelly's story is both inspiring and practical, leaving listeners with actionable advice: embrace your unique traits, seize every opportunity, and remember, you miss every shot you don't take.

Get To Know Dr. Robb Kelly, PhD – Addiction Recovery Expert

Dr. Robb Kelly, PhD, is a world-renowned addiction consultant and the CEO of the Robb Kelly Recovery Group, a leading addiction and mental health recovery coaching organization based in San Antonio, Texas. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Kelly has dedicated his life to helping individuals overcome addiction by addressing its root causes rather than merely treating symptoms. His innovative approach, grounded in neuroscience, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Somatic Experiencing Techniques, has empowered thousands, including celebrities from film, music, and sports, to achieve lasting recovery.

Born in Manchester, England, Dr. Kelly grew up in a musical family, performing on stage by age nine and later working as a session musician at the prestigious Abbey Road Studios in London. Despite early struggles with alcoholism, he pursued academic excellence, earning a PhD in Psychology from the University of Oxford in 1984 and a second PhD in Behavioral Science from the University of Southampton in 2013. His personal battle with addiction, which led to homelessness on the streets of Manchester, fuels his empathetic and direct approach, earning him the nickname "The Gordon Ramsay of the Addiction World."

Dr. Kelly's philosophy emphasizes rewiring neural pathways, addressing childhood trauma, and fostering positive behavioral change to achieve permanent recovery. His tailored, one-on-one coaching programs, often conducted via telehealth, have a remarkable 97% success rate for clients who pass his rigorous assessment process. He is also a Nationally Certified Recovery Coach (NCRC-1) and a Somatic Experience Practitioner, further enhancing his ability to guide clients toward holistic healing of body, mind, and spirit.

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Kelly has lectured at prestigious universities, national conferences, treatment facilities, and hospitals worldwide. He has appeared on shows such as *The Doctors*, *Good Morning Texas*, and *Kens5 Morning News*, and hosts the *Breaking Through Addiction* podcast, where he discusses mental health and recovery with notable guests. His "Let's Get Back to 98% Recovery DVDs" are widely used in prisons and treatment centers across the United States. In 2019, Dr. Kelly published his memoir, *Daddy, Daddy Please Stop Drinking*, chronicling his journey from addiction to recovery and his mission to transform lives.

Dr. Kelly's work is driven by a profound belief: "The problem is not our drinking; it is our thinking." Through the Robb Kelly Recovery Group, he continues to inspire hope, offering personalized recovery solutions that empower individuals to step out of their disease and into a life of purpose and possibility.

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Transform Adversity Into Opportunity: Dr. Rob Kelly's journey from homelessness and addiction to building successful businesses exemplifies the power of turning personal struggles into professional triumphs. His story reminds listeners that life's lowest moments can become the catalyst for long-term success and meaningful impact when approached with the right mindset.

2. Redefine and Own Your Hustle: The conversation challenges common misconceptions about "hustle culture." Both Aaron and Dr. Rob stress that true hustle is about consistently moving forward and embracing one's unique personality—even extreme tendencies—in positive, productive ways. Success comes from leveraging your individuality rather than trying to fit a predetermined mold.

3. Change Starts in the Mind: Dr. Rob highlights the role of mindset and neural rewiring in overcoming limiting beliefs and achieving greatness. By addressing past traumas, shifting self-perception, and surrounding oneself with empowering influences, anyone can create the foundation needed for personal transformation, growth, and sustained achievement.

Show Overview: 00:00 From Stability to Homelessness: My Journey

03:21 From Street Survivor to Healer

09:14 Hustle and Addiction: Personal Transformation

11:09 Childhood Trauma: The True Gateway

13:26 Embracing Extremes for Positive Change

19:25 Elevate Your Energy, Heal Trauma

21:27 Striving for 98% Success

23:43 First Class Transforms Your Mindset