Most People Don't... But You Do!

What happens when a Bronx-born Division 1 athlete becomes one of the most trusted, admired, and emotionally intelligent leaders in the travel industry?

In this heartfelt and energizing episode, Bart sits down with Ray Snisky, Group President of ALG Vacations and Amstar DMC, for an unforgettable conversation about confidence, kindness, humility, and hope. Ray shares deeply personal stories—from growing up with food stamps and driving tow trucks at age 13, to leading teams through 9/11, the financial crisis, and COVID with optimism and calm. You’ll hear how sports, mentors, and a mindset of “nothing to lose, everything to give” shaped his leadership—and why vulnerability and values matter more than spreadsheets.

From launching the Kindness Conference to empowering teams with trust and autonomy, Ray gives a masterclass in people-first leadership and living with purpose.

Major Takeaways/ Learnings

• Confidence is a choice—and often your biggest obstacle is you.
• True leadership means building trust, not control.
• Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
• Don’t just survive challenges—rebuild better from them.
• Empower your people, and they’ll outperform expectations.

Memorable Quotes

• “Most people don’t have enough confidence in themselves to take risks… but the ice is 30 feet thick.”
• “You don’t need to scream to lead. If you do, you’ve already lost credibility.”
• “Success breeds autonomy. Work hard enough that no one has to micromanage you.”
• “I never worried about losing my job—because I knew I’d be okay. I had nothing to lose, and everything to prove.”
• “If your dreams don’t make you nervous, they’re not big enough.”

Why It Matters / How to Use It

If you lead people, want to become a better version of yourself, or are looking for proof that kindness is good business, this episode is your blueprint. Whether you're a CEO, coach, or just trying to stay grounded in hard times, Ray’s stories will reset your mindset—and reignite your hope.

Resources and Links

Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

What happens when a simple subject line transforms your entire leadership approach? In this solo episode, Bart Berkey shares the profound moment when a three-word email—“BTW, good morning”—became a turning point in how he leads with humanity, not just hustle. This deeply personal story reveals why connection must come before direction, and how one assistant's courage sparked a lasting shift in Bart's leadership mindset.

Major Takeaways

1. The 3P Framework: Lead with Person, Purpose, Praise to build trust, drive execution, and inspire motivation.
2. BTW, Good Morning: A reminder to pause, acknowledge, and connect before assigning tasks.
3. Micro Chats Matter: Small greetings fuel emotional belonging—especially in hybrid and remote environments.
4. Nine Keystrokes Can Set You Apart: Typing “Thank You” may take 1.7 seconds, but the impact can be career-changing.
5. Ask About the Blueberries: Celebrate wins, recognize efforts, and invite others to share what’s working.

Memorable Quotes

• “Are you barking orders—or building connection?”
• “Small talk isn’t fluff. It’s fuel.”
• “BTW, good morning—three words that rewired how I lead.”
• “Recognition starts with acknowledgment. It’s not about the task. It’s about the person first.”

Why It Matters / How to Use It

This episode challenges the default mode of leadership many fall into—prioritizing urgency over empathy. Whether you're managing a team or building relationships, the shift from task-first to people-first can unlock deeper trust, better collaboration, and higher performance. Try Bart’s 3P approach in your next email or 1-on-1, and watch your team’s response change.

Resources & Links:

• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

What if your mood isn’t just in your mind—but in your gut? In this powerful episode, GI psychologist Dr. Daphne Spyropoulos of Cleveland Clinic explains the surprising science behind gut health, serotonin, shame, and self-talk. We unpack how social media affects our self-worth, whyyour inner critic might just be habit, and how small shifts in thought can change everything.

You’ll also hear the viral “cereal story” thatmakes neuroplasticity (rewiring your brain) easy to understand—and even easier to apply. If you’ve ever felt anxious, judged, or stuck in self-doubt, this conversation will show you how to build emotional resilience from the insideout.

Resource & Links:

• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

We all carry a little hogwash — the untruths we’ve convinced ourselves are real.

In this solo episode, Bart unpacks the emotional and psychological baggage we carry disguised as “logic”: the thoughts like “I’m not good enough”, “They must be mad at me”, or “I always mess things up.” Spoiler alert:it’s all hogwash.

Through personal stories, science-backed insights, and a practical truth-vs-hogwash exercise, Bart guides listeners to recognize triggers, reject negative narratives, and rewrite their inner dialogue. You'll learn how small shifts in thought lead to big shifts in life — moving from stuck to stable, from fear to forward motion.

Major Takeaways & Lessons

• Most of What You Think… Isn’t True

80% of daily thoughts are negative, and 95% are repetitive. Labeling the false ones as “hogwash” helps break the cycle.

• Hogwash = Lies Dressed Up as Logic

Thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “They’re mad at me” feel real, but they’re often assumptions rooted in fear, not fact.

• Use the Hogwash vs. Truth Tool

Make two columns. In one, list your negative self-talk (“hogwash”); in the other, write the truth that challenges it.

• Triggers Create False Stories

Hogwash often begins at the moment of emotional trigger. Recognizing the origin of the story helps you rewrite it.

• You Can Reframe Your Story

Whether the trigger is from childhood or yesterday, your belief can shift. Start by noticing it, naming it, and replacing it.

• Writing It Down Frees Your Mind

Studies show that writing down worries moves them out of your subconscious, reducing repetitive, anxious thoughts.

• Negativity Bias is Real — But You Can Balance It

Our brains are wired to detect threats. But when we call out hogwash, we make space for gratitude, hope, and awe.

• From Hogwash to Healing

Bart shares a personal story about childhood trauma and how identifying the untruths it planted helped him heal and help others.

• The First Step to Awe is Clearing the Lens

Hogwash clouds our ability to see joy, hope, and potential. Recognizing and clearing it is what reveals the “glimmer.”

• You’re Not Alone

Everyone carries hogwash. The difference is: Most people don’t stop to question it — but you do.

Plus, Bart introduces the first step in his new “Trigger → Glimmer → Awe” framework — helping you feel better, do better, and be better.

Resource & Links:

• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

What do a wholesale floral empire, the Bluetooth symbol, and 14 million monthly readers have in common? Michael Politz.

In this episode, Bart sits down with the endlessly curious and wildly creative founder of Food & Beverage Magazine. Michael shares his unbelievable path—from crafting the now-iconic Bluetooth logo to being mentored by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous legend Robin Leach, to growing one of the most influential publications in hospitality and F&B.

But the real magic? It started long before the media empire—when Michael, as a young man, sat at a local deli with wise, self-made grandfathers. He listened. He asked questions. And what they shared about work ethic, humility, and legacy would quietly shape every bold move he made after that.

This episode is a masterclass in curiosity, legacy, listening, and why most people don’t take the first step—but Michael always does.

Major Takeaways / Learnings

• Ask more. Listen deeply. Michael sat for years with local business legends—not to pitch, but to learn. That habit of asking and listening became his entrepreneurial foundation.
• Start before you're ready. He didn’t wait for credentials—he built a floral empire in college, helped brand Bluetooth, and launched a magazine from scratch.
• Mentorship multiplies momentum. Robin Leach didn’t just give access—he gave Michael the tools to build credibility and tell stories that mattered.
• Legacy isn’t inherited. It’s earned. Watching values decline across generations, Michael committed to building with gratitude and grit.
• Always stay curious. From red carpets to AI tools, Michael embraces learning and reinvention as non-negotiables.

Memorable Quotes

• “Most people walk into a room and wonder, ‘Who’s going to like me?’ I walk in and think, ‘Who am I going to like?’”
• “Those grandfathers at the deli didn’t sugarcoat it—they taught me what hard work looked like. And I listened.”

• “I didn’t wait for someone to show me how—I just figured out what needed to be done and did it.”

• “Robin Leach mentored me for 15 years. He taught me how to make stories sensational, and how to make people feel seen.”

• “Most people don’t take the first step.”

Why It Matters / How to Use It

This episode is a reminder that success starts with curiosity—and grows through listening, learning, and lifting others. Michael’s journey is proof that bold ideas are only half the battle. The other half? Paying attention to the wisdom around you.

Take action by:

• Asking better questions

• Listening like it matters (because it does)

• Capturing the wisdom of mentors

• Acting on what you hear

Michael did. And he built an empire because of it.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpolitz/

Food and Beverage Magazine - https://www.fb101.com/

Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc 

Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.

It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.

Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.

https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page

In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Bart Berkey sits down with global speaker, activist, and content creator Spencer West — known for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands and redefining what's possible. He is more than a gentleman without legs; he is a human being with heart.

Together, they explore what it means to be kind to yourself, how to ask for help, and why we must create space for others while owning our story. From his viral TikToks to his upcoming book Breaking Free, Spencer shares lessons on resilience, identity, burnout, leadership, and the power of showing up authentically.

Major Takeaways / Learnings

• Start With You: Kindness Begins Internally

Leaders and changemakers often overlook self-kindness. Spencer reminds us: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Start by being gentle with yourself, especially in moments of stress or uncertainty.

• Asking for Help Is a Strength, Not a Weakness

Spencer shares moving stories—from climbing Indian temples to emotional breakdowns—that prove the most powerful leaders are the ones willing to be vulnerable and ask for help.

• Your Platform Is a Privilege—Use It to Uplift

As a queer, disabled individual, Spencer chooses to speak out—not for attention, but to educate, advocate, and help others feel seen. “I could stay silent. But I won’t.”

• Redefine Possible (Literally)

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands wasn’t just symbolic—it raised over half a million dollars to provide clean water for 12,500 people for LIFE. Purpose turns pain into impact.

• Burnout Is Real—Even When You Love the Mission

While working for a nonprofit, Spencer traveled over 100 days a year and realized hustle culture had taken over. The pandemic forced a reset, teaching him to prioritize therapy, rest, and joy.

• Offer Help—But Always Listen First

Help should be consensual. A well-meaning stranger once lifted Spencer’s wheelchair into a car without asking—violating trust and autonomy. Spencer’s advice: Offer. Pause. Respect the answer.

• Leadership During Difficult Times Requires Honesty

In hard times, don’t rush to solutions. Acknowledge what’s difficult. Sit in discomfort. Then gather your people and move forward together.

• Representation Matters—and So Does Balance

Spencer balances speaking, social media, and activism with family, fun, and fulfillment. He urges others to explore what they want and need—then pursue it unapologetically.

• Most People Don’t… Stop to Ask What They Truly Want or Need

Spencer’s answer to Bart’s signature question hits home: “Most people don’t take the time to figure out what they want and need.” The first step toward fulfillment is pausing long enough to reflect.

Memorable Quotes

• “Just hang on until the scenery changes. Because it always does.”

• “I want to use whatever platform I have to raise awareness—and infuse it with heart, humor, and honesty.”

• “Helping without listening first can do more harm than good.”

• “Being kind to yourself is learning to ask for help.”

• “Leadership isn’t having all the answers. It’s creating space for the truth.”

Why It Matters / How to Use It:

This episode is a guide for anyone navigating leadership, identity, burnout, or uncertainty. Spencer teaches us that real strength lies in vulnerability, listening, and authenticity. Whether you're managing a team, raising a family, or simply trying to make it through the day—Spencer’s story will move you to pause, reflect, and lead with heart.

Instagram - @spencer2thewest

TikTok - @spencer2thewest

Facebook - Spencer West (page)

Linktree - “spencer2thewest”

Website - Spencer2thewest.com

Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

In this deeply human and heartfelt episode, Bart Berkey sits down with the legendary Edward Mady — author of Honing the Human Edge, former GM of The Beverly Hills Hotel and Hotel Bel-Air, and a true icon in luxury hospitality. From his humble beginnings in a family diner to leading 128 award-winning teams, Edward shares the powerful principle that shaped his leadership: crack the code of others’ hidden strengths and help them grow. With stories of grit, empathy, and purpose, this conversation is a masterclass in humanistic leadership and emotional intelligence.

________________________________________

Major Takeaways / Learnings:

• “Cracking the Code”: Great leaders uncover strengths people don’t yet see in themselves.The Power of a
• Name: Using someone’s name validates their identity and worth — whether they’re an employee or a stranger on the street.
• Growth + Value: Every individual deserves a path to grow and add value. That’s the true headline of leadership.
• Onboarding = Culture: Integration isn’t training — it’s energizing people to join your culture with purpose and pride.
• Desire → Momentum → Movement: Leadership isn't about tasks; it’s about sparking desire that fuels momentum and creates collective impact.
• Lead Through Crisis by Showing Up: Sit in the fire with your team. Presence over perfection.
• Fire With Humanity: Even when letting someone go, leaders can do so with compassion, support, and continued belief in their potential.
• Work Can Be Joy: True leaders find joy in their work because it’s purpose-driven and people-centered.

________________________________________

Memorable Quotes:

• “The most important thing you’ll ever own is your name.”
• “Cracking the code of someone’s hidden strength — that’s what great leadership is.”
• “Desire is when you make a contract with yourself to be unhappy until you get what you want.”
• “What can I do? How can I help? Who can I call?”
• “You never know what it’s like to work for Edward Mady… until you don’t.”
• “Leadership means sitting in the fire with your team and saying, ‘We’ll figure this out together.’”

________________________________________

Why It Matters / How to Use It:

This episode is a playbook for anyone who wants to lead with more empathy, resilience, and impact — whether in hospitality, business, or life. Edward reminds us that it’s not enough to manage people — we must see them, support them, and help them discover their own edge. Apply this by:

• Calling people by name.
• Asking what lights them up.
• Creating safe space to grow, even through failure.
• Leading not just with policies, but with presence.

This is not just leadership — this is legacy.

Resources & Links:

• Edward Mady on LinkedIn: Click here
• Edwar Mady Book: Honing the Human Edge: How Leaders Can Unlock Success Through Caring, Coaching, and Accountability
• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

In this inspiring episode, Bart Berkey sits down with Gavin Mlinar, CEO of Blacklisted Consulting and author of Yes, Your Way to Success. Why Don’t You? Gavin shares the remarkable story of how his upbringing, mindset, and resilience have driven him to negotiate billion-dollar contracts, become an endurance athlete, and launch his own company—all through one key trait: decisiveness.

Together, they unpack what it takes to keep going when most people quit, and how to act with confidence even when conditions aren’t perfect.

Major Takeaways / Learnings:

1. Most People Don’t Ask… But Gavin Does. Gavin landed on this podcast simply by reaching out with authenticity and persistence—something most people don’t do.

2. Rejection is Practice. Cold-calling 100 people a day at Merrill Lynch taught Gavin to normalize “no.” He reframed rejection as part of the process, not a signal to stop.

3. Decisiveness Is a Superpower. According to his book coach (also a therapist), Gavin is one of the most decisive people they’ve ever met—and that’s what makes him different.

4. Forget Perfect—Take Action. Waiting for the perfect moment or perfect plan often leads to stagnation. Gavin encourages forward momentum over perfectionism.

5. Two Steps to Progress: 1) Research and validate through resources and conversations. 2) Make a decision, take action, and adjust along the way.

6. Ask for Help. Often. Most people don’t ask—but most people are predisposed to help when asked. Gavin encourages breaking through that hesitation.

7. Effort + Attitude = Progress. Gavin teaches his kids—and lives himself—by these two values. You don’t need perfection, just consistent energy and a positive mindset.

Memorable Quotes:

1. “Most people don’t ask for help. But most people are predisposed to help when asked.” – Gavin Mlinar

2. “There are very few things in life that are final. Failure is just learning in disguise.” – Gavin

3. “You get to wake up early. You get to catch that flight. That shift in mindset is everything.” – Bart Berkey

4. “Most people don’t… say yes.” – Gavin Mlinar

Why It Matters / How to Use It:

Listeners will walk away with practical tools to become more decisive, more resilient, and more open to opportunities. Gavin’s approach—research, then act—can be applied to anything from writing a book to launching a business, asking for a promotion, or learning how to surf.

His mindset of saying "yes" before conditions are perfect is a challenge to the perfectionist in all of us and his emphasis on attitude and effort is a reminder that consistency and courage can unlock extraordinary results.

Resources & Links:

• Gavin Mlinar on LinkedIn: Click here
• Yes Your Way website: www.yesyourway.com
• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

Fill in the Blank:

Most people don’t…

" say yes. "

Frank Guengerich’s journey is one of grit, grace, and doing the work—often in silence. A former Division I tennis player and national bodybuilding champion, Frank has spent decades building a career in health, wellness, and leadership. Now the President and CEO of HWLS, he shares how his upbringing shaped his values and how he built a boutique consulting firm that thrives on personal attention and a proven track record.

Bart and Frank dive into what separates those who simply dream from those who do. Frank's reflections on responsibility, accountability, and the importance of meaningful leadership resonate deeply. His lessons aren’t just for fitness pros—they’re for anyone who wants to build something with integrity and impact.

Top Takeaways:

• Work Without Applause: Most people don’t do the work in silence. Frank did—and still does.

• Leadership Anchored in Values: Kindness, empathy, rigor, and reliability are non-negotiables.

• Responsibility vs. Accountability: Responsibility is a personal gift. Accountability is cultural.

• Build Smart, Then Scale: Success in the fitness and wellness world depends on business acumen just as much as heart.

• Success Is Simple (But Not Easy): Friendly staff. Clean facilities. Functioning equipment. Consistency.

Best Quotes:

“Most people don’t do the work in silence. They don’t fully commit with passion and patience when no one is watching.” — Frank Guengerich

“Love people and use money. Don’t use people and love money.” — Frank Guengerich

“Responsibility is the gift you give yourself. Accountability is what you give your organization.” — Frank Guengerich

Bart’s Reflections:

Bart shares his own story of career transformation after a health scare and how Frank’s values echo the Most People Don’t mindset. The episode becomes a masterclass in purpose-driven work, sharing how helping others leads to lasting success—and not the other way around.

Resources & Links:

• Frank Guengerich on LinkedIn: Click here

• HWLS Website: www.HWLServices.com

• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn

Fill in the Blank:

Most people don’t…

“…do the work in silence. They don’t pursue goals with passionate consistency. They wait for permission or praise. But when you do the work anyway—especially when no one’s watching—you win.” — Frank Guengerich

(Live from the Moody Center with Mr. Casey Paulson, Project President/Regional Vice President, Discovery Land Company & Elexa Ruth, GM Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club, Austin, TX)

Special thanks to Rachel Reap, Director of Premium Service at the Moody Center in Austin for her hospitality in hosting this podcast event.

📍Description:

Recorded live at the Moody Center, this heartfelt episode features Discovery Land’s Casey Paulson and Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club’s Elexa Ruth. Bart Berkey guides an intimate conversation exploring how small actions, deep care, and personal responsibility create unforgettable premium experiences. From handwritten Father's Day cards to spotting fallen signage, this episode is a powerful reminder that Most People Don’t… but YOU Do.

💡Major Takeaways / Learnings:

Responsibility often begins early and becomes a lifelong motivator. For Casey, becoming a father at 20 shaped his relentless drive and sense of accountability.

Leadership is about consistency in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching — or helping.

Noticing is a superpower. Elexa’s attention to detail comes from genuine care, cultural consistency, and high standards.

“See something, do something” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a leadership practice.

Creating magic for others requires preparation. From branded Yetis to personalized cards, it’s about having tools on hand to surprise and delight.

Hiring for care matters more than hiring for skill. You can train technical abilities, but you can’t teach heart.

Follow-up builds emotional loyalty. A simple “thank you” can leave a lasting impression that most overlook.

Even the smallest act—like a hummingbird’s drop of water—can start a movement.

💬Memorable Quotes:

“Most people don’t think they can make a difference.” – Casey Paulson

“You just have to grind through it… Just keep being better.” – Casey Paulson

“We don’t want our members to have to think of anything when they walk into our little bubble.” – Elexa Ruth

“Magic happens when someone spends a little more time than someone reasonably would expect.” – Elexa Ruth (quoting Teller of Penn & Teller)

“Most people don’t follow up.” – Bart Berkey

“You can't nurture care.” – Elexa Ruth

✨Why It Matters / How to Use It:

This episode is a playbook for elevating any experience—whether in hospitality, leadership, or everyday life. If you lead a team, serve clients, or want to build culture through care:

Hire for heart, not just resume.

Notice. Then act.

Prepare your team to surprise and delight with simple, thoughtful tools.

Remember that follow-up builds trust—and it only takes seconds.

You don’t need a title or budget to make a difference. Be the hummingbird.

More about these companies and their locations:

https://discoverylandco.com

https://driftwoodgolfclub.com

https://moodycenteratx.com

https://mostpeopledont.com