MIKE'D UP!

What happens when you stop measuring productivity by how fast you reply to emails and start focusing on what actually moves the needle?

In this eye-opening episode, Mike is joined by tech-savvy marketing powerhouse, podcaster, and Forbes contributor, Rebecca Shaddix, who's here to blow up everything you thought you knew about getting stuff done. Together, they tear into productivity by breaking down the art of reclaiming your time (yes, even those micro in-between moments), and explore how to stay sharp in a world obsessed with constant motion.

But that's only the beginning.

From building marketing strategies that actually work (hint: it starts with asking the right questions) to using AI without becoming a robot yourself, Rebecca shares bold insights, real talk, and battle-tested advice for entrepreneurs and teams navigating hypergrowth, burnout, and the messy middle of innovation.

Fast-paced, practical, and packed with "why didn't I think of that?" moments—this is the episode your calendar absolutely needs.

IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️ The Importance of Setting Boundaries

➡️ Balancing Creativity and Data in Marketing

➡️ Understanding Customer Feedback

➡️ Leveraging AI in Your Business

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:Discover how well-structured and specific AI prompts unlock the full potential of ideation, pattern recognition, and streamlining complex tasks. It's a small shift that can lead to big gains in clarity, creativity, and efficiency.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:Entrepreneurs, startup founders, and marketing professionals who are ready to ditch the busywork and focus on what truly drives results. If you're craving more focus, impact, and sustainable growth in your work, this conversation offers the insights and tools to help you get there.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Time Billionaires Podcast

Andrew Matthews Books

SurveyMonkey

Connect with Rebecca:

LinkedIn

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

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

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

He turned a pencil into a purpose. Now, his story might truly change yours.

When bestselling author and illustrator Andrew Matthews sits down with Mike, it's more than a conversation, it's an emotional rollercoaster filled with wisdom, heart, and the kind of life lessons they don't teach in school.

Kicking off with a soul-stirring account of his stepson Michael's devastating car accident — and the miracle that followed — Andrew opens up about the power of acceptance, the science of gratitude, and how choosing joy (yes, it's a choice!) can rewire your brain.

With 35 years of inspiring millions through his iconic books like Being Happy and Follow Your Heart, Andrew shares what it really takes to stay hopeful in a world that doesn't always play fair. From chasing dreams with a sketchpad in hand, to building a legacy of light, his journey will leave you laughing, tearing up, and seeing your own story in a brand-new way.

IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️ Coping with Trauma and Tragedy

➡️ Lessons in Happiness & Gratitude

➡️ Finding Joy in Small Things

➡️ The Incredible Impact of Kindness

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:

This episode isn't feel-good — it's do-good. It arms you with a mindset shift, a new sense of perspective, and a reminder that happiness truly is a choice.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:

Creative entrepreneurs and aspiring authors curious about turning passion into a meaningful career, and anyone going through a tough season and looking for hope, healing, or a mindset reset.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Free e-Book of Being Happy

Connect with Andrew:

Website

Books

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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, we step into the high-stakes world of bold ideas and billion-dollar dreams as Mike welcomes Dalton Locke, the unstoppable entrepreneur behind MIT45 and PonoAI. In this high-paced episode, Dalton reveals the secrets behind building a multi-million-dollar empire, fueled by passion, perseverance…and a powerful plant called Kratom.

This isn't only a story of success: it's a masterclass in harnessing AI without losing your human edge. Discover how PonoAI is rewriting the rules of entrepreneurship, empowering business leaders to make smarter decisions (faster) without falling into the automation trap.

From navigating fear to finding clarity in chaos, Dalton lays it all on the line.

IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️ The Future of AI and the Job Market

➡️ Trust Issues with AI Content

➡️ Efficiency in Business with AI

➡️ Practical AI Applications

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:

Listeners will gain insider tips and tricks for harnessing the power of AI to grow their business while decreasing their workload.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:

Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to leverage AI, spiritually minded seekers, dreamers, and anyone ready to turn life experiences into real change and real impact.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Science of Getting Rich

Use the Promo Code SPRTCAP722 and Receive a Free 30-Day Trial of PonoAI

Connect with Dalton:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

PonoAI

MIT45

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 welcomes Gary Daly, a sales pro, investor, lifelong learner, and author of 'Built By Lessons'. Gary shares his journey from facing challenges in Ireland and Australia to discovering personal development through Tony Robbins and how that experience shaped his career in sales across multiple continents.

Gary discusses the importance of investing in yourself, the impact of mentors, and the significance of setting and achieving ambitious goals. From his experiences with public speaking, pitches, and cold plunges with Wim Hof, Gary provides actionable insights and inspirational advice for anyone looking to elevate their career and personal life.

🔥 IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️ Gary's Journey: From Ireland to Australia to UAE

➡️ The Inspiration Behind Writing 'Built By Lessons'

➡️ The Role of Coaching in Achieving Success

➡️ Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Self-Doubt

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY: Listeners will gain insights from Gary's book, 'Built By Lessons', and hear some unique reflections on Gary's experience with Dutch extreme athlete Wim Hof.

🚀 PERFECT FOR: Aspiring entrepreneurs, dreamers, world travelers, and anyone ready to turn life experiences into real change and real impact.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Built By Lessons: Turn YOUR Challenges into Triumphs

Tools Of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers

The Wim Hof Method

Tony Robbins

Brian Tracy

Connect with Gary:

LinkedIn

Book

X

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 welcomes renowned landscape designer Steve Griggs, who shares incredible insights from his over 40 years of experience transforming outdoor spaces into luxurious sanctuaries. They discuss Steve's hands-on approach, his willingness to get 'dirty,' and the importance of earning respect from his team.

Highlighting his achievements, including receiving the Inc. 5000 award twice and appearing on 'Backyard Envy' and 'Good Morning La La Land,' Steve underscores the importance of authenticity and staying true to your roots regardless of your calling in life.

🔥IN THIS EPISODE: ➡️Steve's Journey and Approach to Landscape Design

➡️Memorable Projects and Challenges

➡️Balancing Business and Family

➡️Insights on Building a Trustworthy Team

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY: Listeners will hear unique insights from Steve's book, Straight Dirt: New York City's Premier Landscape Designer Tells it Like it Is

🚀 PERFECT FOR: Aspiring entrepreneurs, leaders, lovers of landscaping, and anyone ready to turn life experiences into real impact.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Straight Dirt Book Power Players with Grant Cardone

Connect with Steve:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

Book

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 reconnects with Michael Anthony, the author of 'Life is Dope'. Michael shares his riveting story of survival and resilience, from narrowly escaping death in a drive-by shooting to overcoming various forms of abuse.

Michael discusses the importance of flipping perspectives, taking ownership of your life, and defining true success. He emphasizes the power of language, the importance of consistent action, and the significance of designing a life worth living— one you won't want to take a vacation from!

This episode is a masterclass in perseverance and the transformative journey toward personal greatness.

🔥IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️Reflections on surviving a drive-by shooting

➡️The importance of having no regrets

➡️Unlocking the power of persistence

➡️Lessons on the impact of impostor syndrome

➡️Practical steps for realizing your potential

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:

Michael unpacks many invaluable lessons from his book ' Life is Dope'.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:

Aspiring entrepreneurs, leaders, individuals struggling with trauma, and anyone ready to turn life experiences into real impact.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

$0.99 Deal on The Kindle Version of Michael's Book

Connect with Michael:

Website

Instagram

Michael Anthony TV YouTube

Signs Sights Sounds YouTube

Book

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 Laura G. Patac, founder of Empower Quest and author of Stories with Purpose — a storytelling coach on a mission to turn overwhelm into overachievement.

Once a globe-trotting corporate exec, Laura shares how she traded boardrooms for books and discovered the power of personal narrative. Together, Laura and Mike explore how storytelling, leadership, and emotional intelligence go hand in hand — especially in business and life.

🔥IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️Why your story is your superpower

➡️How to connect with purpose in every interaction

➡️Overcoming the fear of "putting yourself out there"

➡️Lessons from 7 countries and 5 continents

➡️How writing your story can unlock personal and professional growth

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:

Hear how Laura's book Stories with Purpose is helping others find clarity, confidence, and connection — one story at a time.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:

Aspiring entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone ready to turn life experience into impact.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Stories With Purpose: Your Story Has Purpose Too

Connect with Laura & Empower Quest:

Website

LinkedIn

YouTube

Book

Connect with Mike:

📲 Linktree

SPONSORS:

🦎 Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

🎧 Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

🎥 Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 welcomes generational entrepreneur, franchise expert, and author of Hiding in Plain View, Marcel Clarke, to share his incredible journey from humble beginnings in Philadelphia to achieving remarkable success in multiple arenas. Marcel discusses the challenges he faced, including growing up in a rough neighborhood and navigating the world of entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of having a resilient mindset, taking responsibility for one's decisions, and the value of education.

Marcel also talks about his transition from a commercial cleaning franchise to owning his own business, and his latest venture as a multi-unit operator of Marco's Pizza. He highlights the significance of generational wealth and teaching his children the value of entrepreneurship. This inspiring conversation provides valuable insights and lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, focus, and faith.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Founder

Hiding in Plain View

Connect with Marcel:

Website

Book

LinkedIn

Instagram

Marco's Pizza

Podcast

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

Produced by: Social Chameleon

Want to become a show sponsor or affiliate? 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 welcomes Ryan Chute, AKA the Wizard of Ads, a consulting agency helping ambitious Residential Home Service Contractors and Professional Service Companies 4-10X their revenue profitably with brand-forward sales and marketing solutions. Together, they discuss resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of overcoming adversity. Ryan explores his journey from a high school dropout to a leading sales and marketing expert, and explores the importance of leveraging your weaknesses as strengths. The conversation unpacks pivotal career moments, the intersection of sales and marketing, and the essence of creating a frictionless and trustworthy brand experience.

Ryan shares his insights on how to transform challenges such as ADHD into unique advantages, emphasizing that the traits that make you different can also be your greatest strengths. He highlights the importance of empathy, active listening, and building trust in sales and negotiations.

This episode is packed with valuable lessons on grit, determination, and the transformative power of self-belief.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Hero Documentary on Amazon Prime

My Hair Went on Vacation

Grant Cardone

How to Win Friends & Influence People

The Selling Bible: For People in the Business of Selling

No Thanks, I'm Just Looking: Sales Techniques for Turning Shoppers into Buyers

The Straight Dope on Dirty Sales: A Wiseguy's Guide to the Scams, Cons, and Sleaze of Unethical Selling

Connect with Ryan:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

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

Produced by: Social Chameleon

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 Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders and a seasoned entrepreneur who kickstarted his marketing agency at 17. Jay relays his journey from early entrepreneurship to achieving top-tier status in the digital marketing world, highlighting essential lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of AI in business. He also delves into the importance of clear, customer-focused messaging as advocated in Donald Miller's 'Building a StoryBrand,' explaining how these principles have significantly contributed to his company's success.

Jay shares personal anecdotes about balancing a demanding entrepreneurial career with family life, including effective communication and boundary-setting strategies. Listeners can expect to gain valuable insights into persevering through business challenges, leveraging cutting-edge tools, and maintaining a harmonious work-life balance. This episode is a treasure trove for current and aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to navigate the complexities of modern business while staying true to their core values.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Business Builders

StoryBrand

Building a StoryBrand Book

Free StoryBrand Course

Free Book

Connect with Jay & Business Builders:

Website

Podcast

LinkedIn

Instagram

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

AFFILIATES:

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

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

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