In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with filmmaker Doug Maddox, the founder of DBM Communications. Doug's journey into the world of film is nothing short of inspiring. He shares how he transitioned from a dual major in aeronautical engineering and physics to becoming a full-time filmmaker after an introductory film class altered the course of his life.

Doug dives into the significance of mastering the small things before tackling larger projects, emphasizing how those early, modest experiences shaped his ability to create feature films. Listeners will gain insight into Doug's philosophy on success, where he likens it to a race with numerous hurdles—each representing a different aspect of the filmmaking process, from securing funding and hiring the right crew to getting a film distributed on major platforms like Netflix and HBO.

Doug also reflects on the importance of faith and perseverance in his career, recounting how his trust in God has guided him through the ups and downs of the filmmaking industry. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the creative process, the critical role of storytelling, and his passion for creating impactful films like *The Bill Collector* and *Christmas Ranch.*

For anyone interested in the art of filmmaking, the hurdles faced by creatives, or the sheer determination required to bring a vision to life, this episode offers invaluable lessons and behind-the-scenes stories from a seasoned filmmaker who has navigated the complexities of both the technical and creative aspects of the industry.

In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosted by Dustin Plantholt and sponsored by Root Brands, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Rohit Bhargava, a renowned author, entrepreneur, and keynote speaker. Rohit, known for his insightful perspectives and dynamic presence, shares his unique approach to life and business, including insights from his latest book, Non-Obvious Thinking.

Listeners will hear about Rohit's daily routine, which is anything but routine. He shares how his days vary depending on whether he's traveling or working from home, reflecting his flexible lifestyle. He discusses his love for both coffee and chai, adding a personal touch to his morning rituals.

Rohit also opens up about balancing his high-performance career with family life, including co-founding a business with his wife. He talks about how their dynamic works and the role his children have played in their entrepreneurial journey. This segment offers a glimpse into the challenges and joys of merging family and business.

The conversation covers the sacrifices Rohit has made, particularly regarding his health, and how the pandemic prompted a significant lifestyle shift. He speaks candidly about the importance of health and the changes he made to prioritize it.

Rohit provides valuable insights on handling public speaking and writing, especially in a world where sensitivity to diverse perspectives is crucial. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with audiences on a personal level to deliver impactful messages.

For those interested in goal setting and execution, Rohit discusses his approach to measuring success and the balance between idea generation and implementation. He shares his philosophy on dealing with failures and moving forward.

Throughout the episode, Rohit offers his thoughts on modern-day fears, the potential for technology inspired by science fiction, and the importance of focusing on similarities to foster better connections. He also talks about his self-care routines, his extensive reading habits, and his favorite places to travel.

In a reflective moment, Rohit shares his current learning endeavors, giving listeners a sense of his continuous pursuit of knowledge. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to understand the mindset and habits of a successful entrepreneur and speaker.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Arabian Prince, a pioneering musician and dynamic entrepreneur.

Dustin kicks off the discussion by exploring Arabian Prince's views on the enigmatic nature of success. Arabian shares insights from his time teaching at Point Blank Music Academy, where he often confronted the misconception that success and fame are synonymous. He refers to success as a "mystery," emphasizing that true success doesn't always align with public recognition.

The conversation delves into Arabian Prince's approach to evaluating people's potential through their reactions and attitudes. He shares amusing anecdotes, like a playful encounter at Costco, to illustrate how positive engagement can reveal a lot about someone's character.

Dustin probes deeper into Arabian Prince's experiences with mentorship and networking. Arabian reveals his strategy for helping others by understanding their true goals and providing tailored advice, rather than simply opening doors indiscriminately. This thoughtful approach underscores the importance of meaningful connections over superficial networking.

As the discussion progresses, Arabian Prince offers a glimpse into his daily routine, which starts at 4:30 AM with a round of golf to clear his mind. He balances this with his entrepreneurial ventures, including a new clothing brand and a social media platform aimed at enhancing casino experiences.

Listeners will also hear about Arabian Prince's philosophy on hard work and perseverance, illustrated through stories of mentoring young minds at the Solar Beehive center in South LA. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: genuine success comes from relentless effort and seeking knowledge directly from the source.

In a candid moment, Arabian Prince discusses his routine of staying ahead of trends, whether in technology or business, and the importance of continual self-reinvention, even at 59. His humorous recounting of being mistaken for a much younger man at Costco adds a personal touch to his narrative.

Finally, Arabian Prince shares his current focus on fashion design and social media influence, admitting the challenges he faces in adapting to the demands of constant content creation. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to understand the multifaceted journey of a successful artist and entrepreneur.

Tune in to "Success Leaves Clues" to hear more about Arabian Prince's inspiring story and gain valuable insights into achieving true success.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an engaging and insightful conversation with Chris Roslan, the founder of one of the nation's leading public relations firms.

Dustin kicks things off by welcoming Chris and setting the stage for an in-depth discussion about the world of PR. Chris begins by sharing his journey, from his early days straight out of college to becoming a prominent figure in the industry. He talks about the demanding nature of public relations and how his relentless pursuit of excellence has been the cornerstone of his career, pushing him to consistently deliver outstanding results for his clients.

The discussion highlights Chris's meticulous and selective approach to choosing clients. He explains the importance of aligning with brands and individuals that resonate with his values and have the potential to make a meaningful impact. Saying no to potential clients isn't easy, especially when financial gains are tempting, but Chris emphasizes the importance of integrity and maintaining high ethical standards in his work.

Chris also touches on the transient nature of fame and the constant need for reinvention. Chris underscores the importance of regularly reassessing and adjusting strategies to keep the media and public engaged, ensuring his clients remain relevant and influential.

Listeners will hear Chris's refined definition of success, both professionally and personally. He views business success through the satisfaction of his clients and their willingness to recommend his services to others. On a personal level, he finds success in the good decisions made by his two teenage sons, reflecting his pride as a parent.

The episode also explores the critical topic of work-life balance. Chris discusses how the pandemic transformed his work routine, allowing him to work from home and spend more quality time with his family. This shift significantly improved his work-life balance, which had been strained by long commutes and demanding office hours.

Chris gives a peek into his daily routine, which starts with his essential double espressos and is filled with research, writing, and keeping up with current events. He explains how staying updated with the news is crucial for his work, as it helps him tie his clients' stories to relevant headlines.

The conversation also covers the challenges in the publishing industry, with thousands of new books released every week and fewer journalists to cover them. Chris talks about his meticulous process of evaluating manuscripts and crafting standout media pitches, emphasizing the need for adaptability and creativity in developing successful PR strategies for authors.

Reflecting on his career, Chris acknowledges the mentors who have guided him, from industry legends to his college professor who ignited his passion for PR. He shares his journey from being an apprentice to becoming a leader in the field, always learning and evolving. Chris also discusses his experience teaching at a community college, giving back and helping aspiring professionals navigate the competitive PR landscape.

In closing, Chris talks about his ongoing learning process, emphasizing the value of learning from every client and interaction. He's always looking to improve and stay ahead in the dynamic world of public relations.

Tune in to this episode of "Success Leaves Clues" to gain valuable insights from Chris Roslan on excellence, strategic decision-making, balancing professional success with personal fulfillment, and the continuous pursuit of growth in the ever-evolving PR industry. Chris's expertise and professionalism shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of effective public relations.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Mark Kohler, an accomplished entrepreneur and author.

The episode kicks off with a light-hearted exchange, where Dustin warmly welcomes Mark, teasing him about finally being on the other side of the interview table. Mark shares his unique daily routine, humorously admitting his unwavering dedication to starting each day with a pre-workout drink and a banana, even when traveling. This quirky habit leads to a playful banter about the famous Elvis Presley and his love for banana and peanut butter sandwiches.

Dustin dives deeper, asking Mark to describe what a typical day looks like for him. Mark explains his early rising at 6 a.m., regardless of how late he goes to bed, and his need for a slow, grounded start to the day, which includes meditation and prayer. He emphasizes the importance of this morning ritual in setting the tone for a productive and focused day.

The conversation takes a more serious turn as Dustin asks Mark how he defines success at this stage in his life. Mark passionately shares that true success is not about the money in the bank but about finding and living one's mission and calling. He illustrates this with examples from his own life and those of people he knows who earn modest incomes yet live fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing success. Mark recounts his own experiences, including a period when he had three children under three while attending law school and studying for the CPA exam. He speaks candidly about the missed family events and the immense pressure of balancing work and personal life, highlighting that these sacrifices are often necessary for long-term success.

The discussion shifts to financial freedom, where Mark shares a pivotal lesson he learned during the 2008 real estate crash. He explains that true financial freedom is not about accumulating wealth but about managing resources wisely and living within one's means. This realization, he says, was a turning point for him both personally and professionally.

Mark's vision for the future of the accounting and legal industries is another highlight of the episode. He expresses his commitment to bridging the gap between business owners and knowledgeable advisors, aiming to restore the American dream by ensuring people receive sound financial and legal advice. He confidently addresses concerns about AI's impact on these professions, asserting that the human touch and personalized advice are irreplaceable.

Throughout the episode, Mark emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself. He shares his philosophy of working on the business, not just in it, and the significance of continuous learning and self-improvement. He encourages listeners to set big, audacious goals, or "moon shots," to drive their personal and professional growth.

As the conversation draws to a close, Dustin asks Mark about the greatest influence in his life. Mark becomes emotional as he recounts the profound impact of his father, an entrepreneur who taught him valuable life lessons through example rather than lectures. This heartfelt moment underscores the importance of mentorship and family in Mark's journey.

The episode concludes with Mark discussing his focus for the year—being intentional. He shares his practice of choosing a word for the year to guide his actions and decisions, a tradition he encourages his family to adopt. Mark's commitment to intentional living is a powerful takeaway for listeners, emphasizing the need to prioritize and focus on what truly matters.

This insightful and engaging conversation offers valuable lessons on defining and achieving success, balancing personal and professional lives, and the ongoing journey of personal growth and fulfillment. Listeners will be inspired by Mark's stories, wisdom, and humor, making this episode of "Success Leaves Clues" a must-listen.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Austin Ambrozi, an accomplished entrepreneur with a fresh perspective on success and business. The episode begins with Austin defining success not by the typical markers of wealth or status but by the congruence between one's circumstances and personal values. This thought-provoking viewpoint challenges the conventional wisdom that equates success primarily with financial achievement.

Austin elaborates on his philosophy, explaining that the true debate about success often revolves around balancing professional and personal life, particularly the tension between money and family. By focusing on values, he argues, individuals can redefine success on their terms, finding fulfillment even without traditional markers of achievement.

The conversation then shifts to Austin's educational background in economics from the University of Missouri, Columbia (Mizzou). He discusses how his college experience shaped his thinking, not just through academic knowledge but also by developing his social intelligence. He highlights the unique environment of a large university, where thousands of peers from similar backgrounds come together, providing an invaluable learning experience in human interactions and networking.

As a serial entrepreneur, Austin shares his process of transforming ideas into reality. He introduces the concept of the "impact of reality," acknowledging that ideas often change when confronted with practical challenges. This pragmatic approach involves assessing which values a pursuit satisfies and determining its feasibility in the real world. This methodology applies not only to business ventures but also to personal relationships and creative endeavors.

Dustin delves deeper into the entrepreneurial mindset, discussing the importance of embracing uncertainty and the power of asking questions. Austin considers his ability to ask insightful questions his "superpower," crucial in sales and essential for identifying the right clients, friendships, and business opportunities. He notes that many people hesitate to ask questions due to fear of being wrong, which can hinder personal and professional growth.

The episode also explores how success and ambition can impact relationships. Austin reflects on how his friendships have evolved, noting that his business partner remains his best friend and will be the best man at his wedding. However, he acknowledges that pursuing financial freedom and professional success often requires significant sacrifices, leading to changes in other relationships. He shares the difficult choices he has made, missing personal events to focus on his entrepreneurial goals, and the importance of determining which values and relationships are non-negotiable.

Balancing priorities and maintaining a semblance of work-life balance is another key theme. Austin admits there is no perfect formula, especially for high-performing individuals or those in the building stage of their careers. He emphasizes the need to prioritize critical tasks and handle the most pressing issues—what he calls identifying "the grenade"—to ensure the survival and success of his business.

Listeners will also get a glimpse into Austin's daily routine, which, despite its chaos, includes consistent elements like his eating habits and exercise regimen. He talks about the importance of minimizing decision fatigue by standardizing meals and reducing unnecessary choices, allowing him to focus more on his business. His routine is flexible, adapting to the demands of different time zones and unexpected challenges.

Towards the end of the episode, Austin discusses his approach to setting ambitious goals, comparing them to "moonshot days." These are days where he aims to achieve the best possible outcomes, even if he only occasionally hits the mark. He also shares his philosophy of continuous learning, stressing the importance of pushing beyond limits but also recognizing the need to manage the consequences of overexertion.

The episode concludes with Austin's reflections on the necessity of perseverance and strategic thinking in entrepreneurship. He underscores the importance of learning from those further along the path and staying focused on long-term goals despite the inevitable setbacks and obstacles.

Tune in to this insightful episode of "Success Leaves Clues" to hear more about Austin Ambrozi's journey, his innovative philosophies on success, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to carve their unique paths in the business world.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt and featuring special guest Erik Weir, listeners are in for an enthralling conversation with an accomplished author and entrepreneur.

Erik Weir kicks off by sharing insights into his daily routine, emphasizing the importance of planning the night before. He introduces the concept of a "daily action planner" and explains his strategy of taking one significant action daily—what he calls a "moonshot"—that has the potential to change his life forever.

The discussion then delves into Erik's reading habits. Despite not reading newspapers, he stays well-informed through news services, books, and podcasts, always striving to learn and grow. His dedication to continuous learning is evident, as he recently completed a master's degree at Harvard, an endeavor he describes as both challenging and rewarding.

Erik talks about the sacrifices necessary for success, debunking the myth of a balanced life. Instead, he advocates for a life lived in harmony, focusing on five key areas: faith, family, fitness, finance, and friends. He stresses the importance of regularly assessing these areas to ensure none are neglected.

The conversation touches on the complexities of family and business, with Erik highlighting the need for vulnerability, transparency, and ownership in both spheres. He shares his approach to compartmentalizing problems and maintaining focus, emphasizing the value of uninterrupted time in the morning for planning and personal development.

Addressing fears, Erik speaks about living without fear by focusing on opportunities rather than problems. He shares wisdom on integrating joy into daily life and celebrating small victories, noting that setbacks are a natural part of the journey.

When asked about measuring success, Erik offers a personal perspective, urging listeners to define success on their own terms and avoid comparisons. He highlights the importance of maintaining humility, a lesson ingrained in him by his mother.

Erik also discusses the significance of self-care, particularly as one ages. He admires those who maintain fitness and health, acknowledging that it requires conscious effort and discipline.

In the closing segments, Erik shares his greatest aspiration: to do the best he can with what he has. He concludes with a lesson on the importance of how we respond to uncontrollable events, suggesting that our reactions significantly impact our happiness and stress levels.

Throughout the episode, Erik Weir's wisdom and experiences offer valuable lessons on strategic planning, continuous learning, and maintaining harmony in life. His insights provide listeners with practical advice on achieving personal and professional success.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Michelle Mays, an esteemed author known for her groundbreaking work on partner betrayal. Michelle dives deep into the inspiration behind her book, "The Betrayal Bind," sharing her personal journey of overcoming betrayal in her twenties due to a partner's sexual addiction. This profound experience led her to explore the field of betrayal and develop a new model for treating it in adult relationships.

Throughout the episode, Michelle and Dustin discuss the significance of communication and personal growth in relationships, emphasizing that successful relationships require both partners to commit to ongoing personal development and open, honest dialogue. Michelle also highlights the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships, explaining how early attachments shape our expectations and interactions with others.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of relationships, the importance of being willing to ask for help, and the role of technology in modern relationships. Michelle offers valuable advice on how to navigate and grow through the inevitable challenges that life brings to relationships, advocating for a mindset of continuous learning and openness.

The episode also touches on the transformative process couples must undergo to rebuild trust and create a new relationship after infidelity, underscoring the necessity of addressing the underlying issues and truly committing to change.

Join Dustin and Michelle for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to leave listeners with practical advice and a deeper understanding of how to cultivate healthy, fulfilling relationships.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt and sponsored by Root Brands, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Dr. Gerald Curatola, an author, dentist, and entrepreneur.

The episode begins with a humorous and light-hearted introduction, showcasing the easy rapport between Dustin and Dr. Curatola. The conversation soon delves into Dr. Curatola's background, where he shares anecdotes about his family's emphasis on education. He recalls how his father, a mathematics genius, and his mother, a voracious reader and articulate writer, inspired him and his siblings to pursue higher education and professional careers.

Dr. Curatola also reflects on his journey to becoming a dentist, a decision influenced by a childhood experience and a strong sense of calling. He shares a fascinating story about how, as a six-year-old, he felt a divine inclination to work for God, which eventually led him to choose dentistry over other professions. This deep dive into his early aspirations provides a unique insight into his lifelong dedication to dental health.

Listeners will also hear about the challenges and sacrifices Dr. Curatola faced during his rigorous dental education and the demanding nature of his profession. He candidly discusses the high stress levels associated with dentistry and the importance of having a strong support system and outlets for relaxation and recreation.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Dr. Curatola talks about his dissatisfaction with the traditional mechanical approach to dentistry. He emphasizes the importance of viewing dental health as an integral part of overall health, highlighting the connections between oral health and systemic diseases. Dr. Curatola's book, "The Mouth-Body Connection," is discussed, shedding light on how inflammation and disease in the body often originate in the mouth.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Curatola's passion for holistic health and his innovative approach to dentistry are evident. He shares valuable insights into the role of dental health in preventing and managing various health conditions, making a compelling case for the integration of dental and medical practices.

This episode of "Success Leaves Clues" offers a captivating blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in holistic health and the fascinating intersections between dentistry and overall wellness.

In this episode of "Success Leaves Clues," hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Tom Wheelwright, an accomplished author and entrepreneur. The episode delves into various facets of Tom's journey and his philosophies on success, integrity, and personal growth.

Tom begins by sharing his daily routine, which includes starting the day with coffee and the news, followed by his unique exercise regimen in the afternoon. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a routine that balances work and personal health.

Dustin probes into Tom's career, exploring the ethical standards that have guided him. Tom speaks about the influence of his father, who instilled in him the value of integrity and providing more value than received. This principle has been a cornerstone of his professional life.

The discussion also touches on the challenges Tom faced, particularly regarding self-sabotaging behaviors and the pressures of approval. Tom candidly discusses how focusing on his mission—serving mission-driven entrepreneurs—has helped him stay grounded and avoid the pitfalls of chasing money or power.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around the sacrifices required for success. Tom reflects on the time he sacrificed with his family during his early career, a decision he now regrets and has since corrected. He highlights the importance of finding a balance between professional ambition and personal life.

Tom also addresses the impact of artificial intelligence on the accounting industry, predicting that AI will significantly enhance efficiency and shift the focus from compliance to consulting. This technological evolution, he believes, will help meet the increasing demand for accounting services despite a declining workforce.

In discussing his work ethic, Tom admits to being a reformed workaholic. He now prioritizes self-care and efficient systems over long hours, a shift prompted by burnout earlier in his career. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging others' help and creating systems to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Towards the end of the episode, Tom talks about his experience writing his book, "Tax-Free Wealth," and how it has enhanced his credibility and ability to communicate complex financial concepts simply. He concludes with insights into his next big project: developing software that democratizes access to professional-level financial advice.

Listeners can expect a deep dive into the mind of a successful CPA who has navigated the complexities of his industry with integrity and a focus on mission-driven work. Tom Wheelwright's insights are not just about accounting but about achieving a balanced, meaningful, and impactful career.