This week Mike is excited to welcome Lior Arussy, a leading authority on customer experience. In this chat Mike and Lior dive into the critical importance of prioritizing customers over technology, sharing how companies can adapt to rapidly changing markets to stay relevant. Lior discusses his journey from startup entrepreneur to esteemed consultant, offering a wealth of insights on retaining and serving customers well. He emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt and innovate to meet evolving customer expectations continually. The episode also includes practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on leveraging their unique skills and understanding market needs to build successful ventures.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Books

Connect with Lior:

Website

Books

LinkedIn

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

In this powerful episode, Mike sits down with Dr. Esther Zeledon, author of 'Creating Your Limitless Life' and former international diplomat and scientist turned life coach. Dr. Zeledon shares her incredible life story, beginning with her family's journey from Nicaragua to the U.S. after winning a life-saving lottery, allowing her to receive crucial medical treatment. Esther candidly discusses her academic struggles upon entering an elite college and how great coaching transformed her approach to learning and time management.

Dr. Zeledon opens up about the pivotal moment that led her to leave a stable career to start a social enterprise, driven by a desire to align her work with her passion for empowering others. Throughout the episode, she provides motivational insights on overcoming fear, the importance of purpose, and practical steps to visualize and achieve one's dreams. This conversation is a profound reminder of the resilience required to pursue a fulfilling and impactful life. Tune in for Dr. Esther’s journey from surviving against the odds to transforming lives globally.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

CREATING YOUR LIMITLESS LIFE: ...On Your Terms

Connect with Dr. Esther:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

This week, Mike sits down with Kerim Kfuri, a global entrepreneur and expert in the supply chain industry. Together, they delve into the ripple effects of global actions, emphasizing the need for local and global sustainability. Kerim discusses how the U.S. has historically exported trash and hazardous materials and how this impacts the planet. They explore the critical components of effective supply chain management, such as factory selection, oversight, and third-party attestation. Kerim shares his journey from selling blueberries as a child to running a global supply chain solutions company, highlighting the importance of qualitative and quantitative factors in supplier partnerships. 

The conversation touches on the disruptions caused by COVID-19, the role of sustainability in future supply chains, and Kerim’s recent partnership with Daymond John of Shark Tank. Kerim also shares success stories, such as helping a small spirits company overcome supply chain bottlenecks to achieve multi-million dollar success. He offers valuable advice for young entrepreneurs and stresses the importance of gaining global experience. The episode wraps up with a reminder of the importance of sustainable business practices.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Supply Chain Ups and Downs

The Supply and Demand Podcast

Connect with Kerim:

Website

LinkedIn

YouTube

Instagram

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

This week, Mike is joined by Kaley Z, who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming Multiple Sclerosis (MS) after being diagnosed at the young age of 12. Now symptom-free for over 10 years, Kaley opens up about her path to healing, which involves understanding the mind-body connection and integrating emotional freedom techniques (EFT) into her life. She recounts the early life challenges she faced while living with MS, including her experiences at school and seeking medical treatments.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Dr. Joe Dispenza

The Tapping Solution App

Connect with Kaley:

Website

Courses 

LinkedIn

Instagram

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

In this special episode, Mike welcomes back co-host Dave Ragosa for a catch-up as they share their experiences and highlights from the holiday season and discuss Dave's recent business travels and insights into the restaurant and franchising industries. The duo also reflects on their New Year's resolutions, personal growth, and the importance of intentionality and presence. 

Tune in to hear about Mike's big move to Philadelphia, his new kitten Shirley, and their shared excitement for the year ahead.

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

Produced by Social Chameleon

Interview Recorded via Riverside.fm

Mike’D Up! Merch

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon: https://socialchameleon.us

Navigator Bookkeeping: https://navigatingyourbooks.com

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

This week, Mike sits down with Dr. Andrea Mata as she shares her inspirational journey from a gang-infested neighborhood on Chicago's South Side to becoming a renowned clinical child psychologist and founder of BrightSpot Families. Andrea discusses the devastating loss of her brother, the pivotal moments leading to her career, and her mission to address youth mental health and parental burnout. She offers insights into her workshops, empowering both parents and businesses with practical strategies for coping and relationship building.

This candid discussion highlights the importance of presence and vulnerability in parenting and leadership. Andrea emphasizes that the skills required for effective parenting translate directly into successful leadership in professional settings. Throughout the episode, Andrea's dedication to her mission shines through, providing hope and actionable advice for parents and individuals seeking to make a positive impact in their families and communities.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

The No. 2 Parenting Book: Practical Tips for the Pooped Out Parent 

Ted X Talk

Connect with Dr. Andrea:

BrightSpot Families

Book

LinkedIn

Instagram

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

This week Mike chats with James Brackin, host of the You Can Too Podcast, about transforming the word impossible into 'I'm possible.' The discussion covers various topics, including the power of language in shaping our mindset, cultivating an abundance mindset, overcoming imposter syndrome, and actionable strategies for personal growth. James shares his journey of becoming a mindset and personal growth coach, which was inspired by the loss of loved ones and a challenging period during COVID-19.

Together, they delve into the significance of investing in oneself, the critical role of language, and the need to unlearn limiting beliefs to unlock true potential. They also explore the idea of setting anti-goals to achieve clarity and success. The episode is filled with insights on self-belief, the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, and using setbacks as opportunities for growth. Packed with practical advice and personal anecdotes, this conversation aims to inspire listeners to adopt a proactive and deliberate approach to life, cultivating resilience and an abundance mindset.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

The Go-Giver, Expanded Edition: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea

Connect with James:

LinkedIn

Podcast

YouTube

Instagram

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

This week Mike returns after a brief hiatus following his move to Philadelphia, eager to start a new chapter of life and Mike’d Up! Joining him is Patricia Love, an energy revival coach and author of 'Seen and (un) Heard' to discuss foundational topics of empowerment, confidence, and inspiration, especially aimed at women over 40. Patricia shares insights from her journey of transformation and the challenges she faced in launching the 'ConfidentU' app. She delves into the importance of taking control of one’s energy, differentiating between motivation and inspiration, and overcoming fears to step out of one's comfort zone. The conversation also explores the significance of being transparent and sharing personal stories to help others on their journeys of growth and rebuilding confidence.

Mike and Patricia emphasize taking small, actionable steps and maintaining a positive mindset to achieve personal empowerment and harness energy effectively. They offer practical tips on managing energy levels, protecting one's personal space from negative influences, and embracing life transitions with a proactive attitude. The episode is packed with motivational moments and serves as a guide for anyone looking to rejuvenate their energy and take charge of their personal growth.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

Seen and (un) Heard

ConfidentU App

Patricia's first interview on Mike'D Up!

Patricia's second interview on Mike'D Up! 

Connect with Patricia:

Website

LinkedIn

Facebook

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

Mike sits down with Alex Polamero, founder of Ninestone Marketing. With over 20 years of experience, Alex has successfully driven marketing and sales growth initiatives and managed strategic CRM implementations for organizations with revenues between $1 million and $1 billion. In this chat, Mike and Alex explore the nuances of entrepreneurship, especially for those venturing out with existing expertise. Alex shares his journey from a 'lone wolf' beginning to build a business that is not only financially successful but also rooted in strong ethical values and teamwork. He discusses the significance of branding and personal philosophy, which were central to the formation of Ninestone Partners. The conversation sheds light on how collaborating with professionals and other business owners can significantly enhance business success and personal fulfillment. 

Alex dives deep into the role of CRM in business growth, emphasizing the need for effective lead management and personalized communication. Through real-world examples, he highlights how businesses can transform with the right CRM strategies and marketing automation. The episode also touches on the importance of networking on LinkedIn and crafting a robust marketing budget to scale business operations effectively. Mike and Alex provide listeners with actionable insights into optimizing processes and creating meaningful connections alongside the critical role of hard work and persistence in entrepreneurial ventures.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

Ninestone Partners

YouTube

Connect with Alex:

LinkedIn

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]

In this episode, Mike sits down with Alexander V. Johnson, the founding partner of Mixt Solutions. They discuss the company's impressive journey, managing millions of transactions on Amazon and crossing $100 million in sales in 2023. Alex shares valuable insights into the importance of consistency, maintaining a solid strategy, and building long-term relationships with clients as essential components of his company's success. He also explains the unique dynamics of selling on Amazon and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to replicate similar achievements.

In addition, Alex elaborates on the core values that drive Mixt Solutions, highlighting the mantra of 'Consistency Over Intensity.' He underscores the significance of starting small, learning from failures, and remaining adaptable in a constantly evolving market. The conversation delves into the nuances of creating a symbiotic business relationship, where success is achieved through mutual growth. Mike and Alexander also discuss the power of a strong team, the importance of mentorship, and the need for realistic goals and steady growth over rapid, unsustainable expansion. The episode wraps up with reflections on past experiences, future strategies for continued success, and an invitation to tune into Alex’s Podcast, (Now Titled Entrepreneur, Among Other Things.)

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

Mixt Solutions

Podcast

Connect with Alexander:

LinkedIn

Instagram

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast 

Navigator Bookkeeping | Understand the full financial story of your practice

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor? Email [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email [email protected]