MIKE'D UP!

This week, Mike welcomes the author of The Inside-Out Entrepreneur, Mohamed "Mo" F. Ahmed, a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in AI and cloud computing. Mo debunks common media myths about entrepreneurship, stressing the importance of a solid mindset and preparation. He delves into the evolution of AI, its rapid growth, and wide-ranging impact on various industries, emphasizing how AI is revolutionizing the landscape by making processes faster and more cost-effective. Mo also discusses the misconceptions about AI's capabilities, clarifying its role as a tool to enhance human creativity and decision-making rather than replacing it entirely. Through real-world examples, he illustrates how AI can aid in marketing, sales, and customer experience, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to leverage technology in their businesses.

Mo's experience in helping companies successfully exit comes to the forefront as he shares the foundational elements necessary for entrepreneurial success. He underscores the importance of focusing on building a business rather than just a product, encouraging entrepreneurs to understand the fundamentals of sales, marketing, and customer engagement. With a keen eye on the future, Mo predicts a surge in startups and innovative solutions as AI continues to evolve. The conversation wraps up with advice on maintaining mental health and a balanced lifestyle, crucial for anyone embarking on the challenging yet rewarding journey of entrepreneurship.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Inside-Out Entrepreneur: Become the Entrepreneur You Were Born to Be

ChatGPT

Monica

Connect with Mohamed:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

X

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Linktree

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Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside

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

In this heartfelt episode, Mike sits down with Jeremy Joerger, a decorated U.S. Army veteran and former federal special agent turned author and entrepreneur, to discuss his multifaceted journey. Jeremy opens up about his career shifts from high-stakes government roles to founding one of Florida's fastest-growing breweries, and the eventual failures that led him down a path of introspection. Jeremy shares personal stories, including the discipline and rigor of his military and special agent days, his passion for branding and quality control in his brewery business, and how community engagement was crucial to his success.

Jeremy discusses the challenges of operating a business through the pandemic, dealing with Chapter 11 reorganization, and the hazards of picking unwinnable fights. His candid reflections offer invaluable lessons on resilience, knowing when to walk away, and the importance of staying true to yourself.

This episode also dives into his personal struggles, including divorce and suicidal thoughts, but underscores the unwavering support of his family, especially his mom and children. This conversation is an emotional rollercoaster filled with personal anecdotes, family support, and the critical significance of mental health, making it an inspiring listen for anyone facing adversity.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Business Shit: Lessons Learned from a Blue Collar CEO

Business Shit: Lessons Learned from a Blue Collar CEO

Connect with Jeremy:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

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 is joined by clinical psychologist and educational leader Doug Bolton, PhD, to take a deep dive into the complexities of children's misbehavior and stress. They discuss the shift from traditional views that focus on motivation and consequences to understanding misbehavior as a reaction to stress. Doug provides consultation, supervision, and professional development to parents, educators, and clinicians throughout Illinois, creating communities that foster student and staff resilience. Doug shares personal stories and professional expertise, offering practical strategies from his book, 'Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation.' Listeners will gain valuable insights into emotional regulation, the impacts of parental stress on children, and the importance of attuned and quality time in fostering resilience and mental well-being.

Doug explains how misbehavior is often a sign of underlying stress and highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing these emotional needs. The conversation touches on his own experiences with family and divorce, unpacking how these events shaped his understanding of relationships and attachment.

Mike and Doug also explore the challenges of parenting and offer practical advice on how to navigate these difficulties while maintaining strong connections with children. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding and improving both their own and their child's mental health.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Doug's Resources Page

Dr. Stuart Shanker's Book

Connect with Doug:

Website

Book

Instagram

LinkedIn

X

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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 Luke Mickelson, the founder of the nonprofit organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Mickelson shares the poignant story that led him to build his first bed for a child in need, leading to the creation of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a global movement. Today, SHP has over 400 chapters in 4 countries and 46 U.S. states, delivering beds to nearly 300,000 children in need. Luke has personally trained and mentored hundreds of chapter leaders, sharing his blueprint for community-driven change and empowering others to serve with heart and purpose.

In this episode, Luke discusses the emotional moments that fueled his passion, such as delivering a bed to a young girl named Haley who had never owned one, and the realization of the critical issue of child bedlessness. The interview also emphasizes the joy and purpose found in serving others and how small actions can lead to monumental change.

Luke details how volunteers and donations have played a critical role in the organization's success, outlining ways listeners can get involved, from building beds to spreading awareness or even starting their own chapter. Tune in to be inspired and learn how you can make a meaningful difference in your community!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Donate to Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Connect with Luke:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

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]

This week, Mike and Dave had the privilege of speaking with visionary entrepreneur Jon Sabes, founder of Longevity Financial Partners. Jon shares insights from his new book, Healthy Wealthy Longevity, exploring the intricate relationship between health, wealth, and happiness. He stresses the importance of balancing lifestyle choices and offers practical tips for enhancing your life.

Jon also emphasizes the importance of community and purpose in achieving a fulfilling life. The discussion delves into the future of health and longevity, focusing on the transformative impact of AI and precision medicine. Sabes advises listeners to live intentionally, stay connected, and continuously strive for personal growth.

The episode also touches on philanthropy and the significance of giving back, inspired by Jon's family foundation.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Longevity Financial Partners

Connect with Jon:

Website

Book

LinkedIn

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn

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, Dave Ragosa returns to the show after a busy yet productive conference season. Mike and Dave dive into the significance of networking and the often misunderstood value of failure. Dave shares insights from his recent franchise conferences, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, localized marketing, and consistently delivering great guest experiences. He provides updates on his ventures, particularly in the Ford's Garage franchise, and the critical factors that determine a business's suitability for franchising. The episode highlights how failures are stepping stones to success and the need for adaptability and optimism in business.

Mike reflects on how podcasting has transformed his life over the past five years by expanding his network of over 200 entrepreneurs, turning his passion into a profitable business, and learning directly from successful individuals. The discussion touches on the importance of consistent metrics and key performance indicators in scaling a business. They also talk about the power of personal growth and health goals, with Mike sharing his personal six-month challenge to lose 50 pounds. This episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to scale, network effectively, and embrace failures as part of the growth process.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Ford's Garage

Napoleon Hill

Connect with Dave:

LinkedIn

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 Jeremy Hill, the visionary founder of JB Capital, to explore his entrepreneurial journey. Jeremy shares how he took a leap of faith in 1995, leaving college to pursue a different path and the accidental beginnings of JB Capital. He discusses the challenges of handling everything by oneself and the importance of delegating tasks to allow for business growth. Jeremy offers insights into the rise of private credit markets and their future impact on small and medium-sized businesses. He explains that understanding the thesis of potential investors and the stage of the business is critical when seeking capital.

Jeremy emphasizes the importance of creating a compelling business story to attract investors and how private markets can provide more flexible and swift funding options compared to traditional banks. The conversation also touches on the balance between work and personal life and the importance of maintaining a focus on family and personal fulfillment. Jeremy's experience and advice provide valuable guidance for any entrepreneur looking to grow their business and navigate the complexities of raising capital.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

JB Capital

Connect with Jeremy:

Website

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]

This week, Mike welcomes Doug Zarkin, a branding expert with an impressive portfolio that includes Avon and Victoria's Secret Pink. Doug discusses his career journey from post-grad hustling to becoming a chief brand officer, emphasizing key lessons learned along the way. He reveals the principles of emotional connection in branding and marketing, highlighting the importance of listening to consumers and building campaigns that resonate deeply. Doug also delves into the contrasting approaches of branding and marketing and shares actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and marketers on how to succeed in the competitive landscape. He passionately shares why there is no right or wrong way in marketing, just a direction to commit to fully.

Doug also introduces his book, 'Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone,' and explores some fascinating case studies, such as transforming Avon's brand appeal to a younger audience and scaling Victoria's Secret Pink into a fashion powerhouse. With insights on the role of technology and AI in future branding strategies and the essentials of creating impactful ad campaigns, this episode is packed with invaluable knowledge for anyone interested in marketing and brand management. Tune in for Doug's candid insights about the challenges and triumphs of his career, and get inspired to THINK HUMAN in every business and marketing decision.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone

Doug's YouTube Channel

Connect with Doug:

Website

Book

LinkedIn

Instagram

Connect with Mike:

Linktree

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

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]

Drawing inspiration from a 'Home Improvement' episode with a cameo appearance by Christopher McDonald, Mike talks about the value of living in the moment, embracing the future, and always striving to grow.

Mike highlights how important it is to surround yourself with positive people, learn new things, and break free from the past—especially your past mistakes. He also discusses how embracing AI has boosted his productivity and is helping drive his business forward.

SPONSORS:

Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast

Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT

Riverside | This episode 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 Lloyd Ross—an ex-lawyer turned financial educator and host of the "Money Grows on Trees" podcast—who dives deep into the paradox of busyness and wealth. Ross shares his journey from working a traditional 9-to-5 job to achieving financial freedom by mastering time management and effective delegation. He discusses common misconceptions about productivity, the importance of focusing on high-priority tasks, and leveraging systems for better efficiency.

The episode also touches on Lloyd's upcoming book, Become Time Rich, which outlines four essential laws for achieving wealth and time freedom. Along the way, listeners are treated to practical tips for managing their schedules, delegating tasks, and identifying their true priorities for a more fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how to stop being busy and start getting wealthy!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork

Rich Dad Poor Dad

$100M Leads: How to Get Strangers To Want To Buy Your Stuff

Making Money Is Killing Your Business, How to Build a Business You'll Love and Have a Life, Too

Become Time Rich: How to Stop Being Busy and Start Getting Wealthy

Spiritual Gifts Test

Connect with Lloyd:

Website

Podcast

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

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